Eye Own a Business

In this episode, we welcome back Ankit Patel to discuss the innovative use of AI in his business, My Business Care Team, which provides virtual staffing solutions for eyecare practices. Ankit explains how AI can address staffing challenges, create effective job descriptions, facilitate behavioral-based interviews, and streamline the hiring process. He also delves into AI's role in training and development and practical steps to integrate AI into workflows for improved efficiency and automation.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Ciano shares insights into his journey in pediatric optometry. Dr. Ciano moved to Indiana and started an adult clinic 18 years ago, expanding into pediatric care 12 years ago. Now with four practices, he discusses the unique challenges and rewards of pediatric eye care. Highlights include essential qualities for pediatric specialists, the significance of compassionate staff, and effective marketing strategies, particularly the benefits of consistent communication with pediatricians. Dr. Ciano also emphasizes the importance of creating an inviting environment for children and the importance of balancing fun and professionalism in pediatric care.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo chats with Corey Pinnegar, founder of remote staffing company TEEM. They delve into the evolving landscape of remote work in optometry. They discuss the challenges of staffing shortages, rising payroll costs, and the potential for virtual assistants (VAs) to fill gaps and alleviate administrative burdens in optometry practices. Corey shares insights on integrating VAs into teams, emphasizing trust, clear expectations, and continuous employee development. This episode provides valuable guidance for practice owners considering the leap to remote staffing solutions.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, I'm joined by respected optician and educator Joy Gibb to explore how integrity, empathy, and curiosity—not sales tactics—drive the most impactful optical experiences. Joy introduces the concept of core value dispensing, where product recommendations are rooted in genuine care and a desire to improve each patient's quality of life. We discuss how opticians can uncover lifestyle needs through better questions, collaborate more effectively with doctors, and build lasting trust with patients. Whether you're a doctor, optician, or team leader, this episode offers practical insights to help you elevate care, boost confidence in recommendations, and align your work with what matters most.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Charles Posternack about his extensive career in healthcare and the founding of Avulux, a company dedicated to developing specialized lenses to aid migraine sufferers. Dr. Posternack shares personal stories and statistical insights into the prevalence and impact of migraines, particularly on those under 50 and on veterans. He explains the scientific basis behind Avulux lenses, their effectiveness, and their high success rate. The discussion also covers the FDA-approved safety of these lenses and the significant opportunity they present for optometrists to differentiate their practices and better serve patients.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube  

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo explores the impact of recent tariffs on the eye care industry. Joined by Omar Elkhatib, Senior Manager of Government Relations, and Rick Van Arnam, regulatory counsel from the Vision Council, they discuss the implications of tariffs imposed on various countries, emphasizing how eyecare professionals might be affected. Key insights include the impact on costs for optical products such as frames, lenses, and equipment, and strategies for managing these challenges.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube  

In this special episode of Eye Own a Business, I'm sharing three powerful conversations from a previous podcast I hosted, Can I Ask You One Question? Each segment features a bestselling author exploring a common theme: how to influence human behavior in ways that lead to better outcomes—for your patients and your practice. You'll hear from Dr. Stephen Trzeciak on the science behind compassionate care, Dr. William Miller on what truly motivates people to change, and Dr. Kathleen Starr on overcoming resistance to healthcare recommendations. Whether you're leading a team or guiding patients, this episode offers science-backed insights you can apply right away.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Steve Vargo interviews Nathan Hayes, discussing the challenges and strategies surrounding payroll and hiring in optometry practices. They explore the complexities of hiring decisions, balancing fear and logic, and the importance of having the right team members to drive growth. They also touch on practical advice for managing staff, the benefits of outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping, and the nuanced role of incentive bonuses. The conversation aims to provide clarity and actionable insights for practice owners navigating the current labor market.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses a common challenge faced by practice owners: how to increase revenue production from associate ODs. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication in setting expectations, tracking performance metrics, and having productive review meetings. Dr. Vargo highlights the need for mentorship, focusing on patient care rather than just revenue, and creating a supportive environment. He concludes with tips on hiring the right associate and key metrics to track for ongoing success.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Stewart returns to discuss her remarkable journey back into private practice after selling her first practice. Reflecting on her initial decision to step away and the motivations behind her return, Dr. Stewart shares insights into what she learned about patient care and business operations. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of cold starting a new practice and highlights the importance of focusing on what one truly enjoys in the profession. This episode offers valuable advice on decision-making, risk-taking, and seeking support from others in the optometry field. Dr. Stewart's candid discussion provides a blend of success stories and lessons from failures, making it a must-listen for anyone considering changes in their practice or career path.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

The future of optometry is evolving, and today's new grads have different expectations, career goals, and challenges than ever before. In this episode, I sit down with Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, President and CEO of New England College of Optometry, to discuss what the next generation of optometrists really wants—from practicing to the full extent of their licensure to navigating student debt and business ownership. We also explore the shifting dynamics between experienced ODs and new graduates, the role of AI and technology in optometry's future, and how seasoned doctors can mentor and attract young talent to their practices.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Kayla Ashley, founder of Spexy, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of influential communication and how simple behavioral adjustments can notably improve patient trust and practice outcomes. Ashley shares actionable insights into reducing patient walkouts, optimizing team interactions, and enhancing the overall patient experience. The significance of active listening and the impact of non-verbal cues are also highlighted to ensure patients feel heard and understood, thus fostering loyalty and increasing sales. This episode offers invaluable advice to both doctors and optical staff aiming to boost their communication skills and practice effectiveness.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

At The Connection 2025, Dr. Todd Cohan discusses the importance of integrating a business mindset into optometry practices. He shares insights on balancing patient care with effective business management, highlighting three pillars of his practice: primary eye care, myopia management, and dry eye treatment. Dr. Cohan emphasizes the need for entrepreneurial skills, the significance of valuing staff, and the methods of creating accountability and trust within the team. He also shares his journey of transitioning from traditional eye care to specialized services to ensure sustainable growth and patient satisfaction.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube

In this episode, Jeremy Bono, a new addition to the IDOC team, delves into his experience in the eye care space, specifically focusing on marketing for optometrists. He emphasizes the importance of defining personal brand values and mission, leveraging SEO, and using AI for competitive analysis and strategy refinement. Throughout the conversation, Jeremy offers actionable advice on creating effective websites, the role of social media, and the significance of both digital and traditional marketing methods.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this podcast episode, we tackle the often uncomfortable topic of 'selling' in the eye care profession. Despite being trained primarily as clinicians, optometrists and opticians can greatly benefit from understanding effective sales techniques. Host Steve Vargo introduces the CLEAR Sales Model - a simple, repeatable system that helps guide patients through the eyewear selection process. The model stands for Connect with the patient, Listen actively, Educate on options, Address concerns, and Recommend the best solution. Through this approach, eye care professionals can enhance patient trust, improve sales without feeling pushy, and ultimately ensure patients walk away with the best vision solutions.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode originally aired on the 20/20 Money podcast, certified financial planner Adam Cmejla and Dr. Steve Vargo discuss the importance of staying true to one's vision and passion in practice ownership. The conversation highlights common pitfalls such as the temptation to mimic other successful practices and urges optometrists to avoid unnecessary comparisons. Steve shares insights on identifying and focusing on activities that align with one's vision, experimenting with new ideas, and making well-considered decisions in practice management. The episode also emphasizes the importance of learning from failures, finding joy and passion in one's work, and balancing financial success with personal fulfillment.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

Are you stuck in the “Admin Day” mindset, drowning in tasks that keep you from growing your practice? In this episode, Steve and guest Adam Cmejla challenge the way optometry practice owners think about time management, delegation, and productivity. They explore why so many ODs struggle to let go of certain tasks, how opportunity cost affects practice growth, and why saying no to low-value activities can be the key to scaling successfully.   Tune in to learn actionable strategies for reclaiming your time, avoiding burnout, and focusing on what truly moves the needle in your business and personal life. Plus, Adam shares his “Next Best Step” framework to help you start making immediate changes.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Steve welcomes practice management experts Sharon Carter and Lynn Lawrence to discuss their keynote presentation, How to Embrace Change and Implement It, which will be delivered at the upcoming IDOC Connection conference in February. The conversation explores why change is challenging in optometry practices, how to implement it effectively, and the critical role leadership plays in navigating change. Sharon and Lynn share insights on overcoming resistance, building strong teams, and developing processes that drive success.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode, Steve sits down with Ankit Patel to discuss the integration of AI in his optometry practice. They explore various applications of AI, from enhancing hiring processes and staff training to streamlining operations and creating SOPs. Ankit shares practical advice on leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude, highlights the current capabilities and limitations of AI, and reflects on its future potential in the eyecare field.     Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses the topic of selling within the eyecare industry. He emphasizes the need to reconceptualize selling not as a pushy tactic, but as an extension of patient care. Drawing from his book, 'But I Don't Sell,' Dr. Vargo discusses the importance of understanding patient needs, emotional drivers behind decision-making, the 'trust gap,' and strategies to overcome common objections. He offers actionable tips like asking better questions, clearly communicating value, and creating a sense of urgency to enhance patient outcomes and practice revenue. The episode aims to reduce the stigma around selling and help eye care professionals provide better, more ethical care.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty    

In this insightful episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Janelle Davison, a leader in dry eye therapy and owner of Brilliant Eyes Vision Center and Premier Dry Eye Spa. Dr. Davison offers advice for ODs looking to grow their dry eye services, starting with simple steps and gradually advancing their offerings. The episode underscores the significance of combining innovation with tradition to achieve lasting success in dry eye management and patient satisfaction.   Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, host Steve Vargo dives into the often-dreaded topic of workplace conflict, reframing it as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat to harmony. Drawing from personal experiences, leadership workshops, and compelling research, Steve explains why conflict is a natural and even beneficial part of team dynamics—when managed effectively. Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/idoc_net/ Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IDOC.OptometricAlliance Follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/idoc   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty

In this episode, Dr. Vargo converses with Dr. Amanda Nanasy, an expert in neuro-optometric rehab in South Florida. They delve into the potential for optometrists to treat patients with headaches more effectively, challenging common assumptions and exploring practice-building opportunities. Dr. Nanasy shares her methods for diagnosing and treating headaches, the role of Neurolens technology, and the importance of patient and provider education. Additionally, she provides insights into managing referrals and co-managing with other healthcare providers to enhance patient outcomes.    Follow our Podcast on All Available Platforms Follow our Podcast on Instagram Follow IDOC on Facebook Follow IDOC on LinkedIn Watch our Podcast Video on YouTube   Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo discusses the transformative power of one-on-one meetings with Dr. Steven Rogelberg. Dr. Rogelberg, an organizational psychologist and author of acclaimed books on meetings, explains how effective one-on-one meetings can improve team culture, boost productivity, and enhance employee retention. They dive into why bad meetings fail, the benefits of one-on-one meetings over team meetings, and how leaders can structure these interactions for maximum impact.     Watch Episodes on YouTube at Eye Own a Business - YouTube Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/eyeownabusiness/  Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IDOC.OptometricAlliance   LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/idoc     Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty  

In this episode, industry experts Dr. Jessilin Quint and Dr. Janelle Davison share their insights on integrating new technologies in optometry practices. They discuss the impact of innovation on patient care, particularly through the lens of dry eye treatments and the new Precision7 contact lenses. The conversation covers strategies for convincing both staff and patients to adopt new technologies, emphasizing patient comfort, innovative treatment plans, and the importance of clear communication. The episode also touches on the benefits of the new Precision7 lenses, including its intuitive one-week disposable schedule, sustained comfort, and blue light filtering technology.    WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE Resources for Independent Optometrist! Follow Us on Instagram - EyeOwnABusiness If you are interested in more ways to help your business IDOC has great resources! 2023 Optometry Benchmarks Report Download How is Your Website Really Performing? Free Website Audit Case Study: See The Strategies Needed to Say Relevant in The Market

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo and Dr. Justin Kwan from CooperVision discuss how optometrists can effectively respond when parents say "not interested" to myopia management recommendations. They share insights gathered from a recent workshop with over 60 doctors and explore strategies to handle patient objections with empathy and clarity.     WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE Resources for Independent Optometrist! Follow Us on Instagram - EyeOwnABusiness If you are interested in more ways to help your business IDOC has great resources! 2023 Optometry Benchmarks Report Download How is Your Website Really Performing? Free Website Audit Case Study: See The Strategies Needed to Say Relevant in The Market

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Garrett Whitmore, a successful optometry practice owner who expanded from one to six locations, doubling revenue multiple times. Dr. Whitmore shares insights into the challenges of scaling a practice, emphasizing the importance of leadership, systems, culture, and marketing. He discusses the role of strategic planning and communication, offers strategies for maintaining consistency across multiple locations, and highlights the benefits of utilizing third-party services. The conversation also touches on effective partnership communication and the impact of structured marketing strategies on practice growth.  WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE Resources for Independent Optometrist! Follow Us on Instagram - EyeOwnABusiness If you are interested in more ways to help your business IDOC has great resources! 2023 Optometry Benchmarks Report Download How is Your Website Really Performing? Free Website Audit Case Study: See The Strategies Needed to Say Relevant in The Market  

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo challenges traditional notions of business success by emphasizing the importance of embracing failure. Contrasting the usual focus on success strategies, Dr. Vargo advocates for taking risks and learning from failures, highlighting how an experimental mindset can drive growth and innovation in optometry practices. Through practical examples and industry insights, he illustrates how small, low-risk tests can provide valuable data and lead to significant improvements. He also emphasizes building a culture of experimentation within practices and encourages staff empowerment to test new ideas.  WATCH EPISODES ON YOUTUBE Resources for Independent Optometrist! Follow Us on Instagram - EyeOwnABusiness If you are interested in more ways to help your business IDOC has great resources! 2023 Optometry Benchmarks Report Download How is Your Website Really Performing? Free Website Audit Case Study: See The Strategies Needed to Say Relevant in The Market  

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo speaks with Johann Van Zyl, Business Development Manager at Younger Optics. They discuss the vital role of second pair sales in the profitability of independent optical practices. Johan shares insights on effective communication strategies for both doctors and opticians, the importance of understanding patient needs, and how independent practices can learn from the success of corporate optometry. They also explore the role of discounts, the significance of dedicated sunwear sections, and how to educate patients about specialty lenses to enhance their visual experience.    Find more information about how IDOC can help grow your practice at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Allie Markowski, an optometrist specializing in migraine management using Avulux lenses. Dr. Markowski shares her journey of incorporating this technology to help patients suffering from migraines and light sensitivity, drawing from her own experience as a migraine sufferer. The discussion covers how to effectively integrate a migraine subspecialty into an optometry practice, emphasizing patient communication, staff training, and the potential for both improved patient outcomes and practice profitability. The episode highlights the benefits of differentiating a practice through specialized care and offers insights on how to get started with Avulux lenses. 

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Bart Higley, an IDOC member and owner of New England Eyeworks, to explore the story of his highly successful optometry practice. Dr. Higley shares insights on how he has never accepted vision plans, highlighting the benefits of operating a cash-pay model, focusing on quality of care, and emphasizing the importance of brand and patient experience. The discussion touches on metrics, marketing strategies, and managing patient expectations, offering valuable advice for practice owners contemplating a similar path.    Learn more about how IDOC can help your practice at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

In this episode, special guest Dr. Scott Moscow, Clinical Director at Roswell Eye Clinic, shares insights on preventing contact lens dropouts and reigniting interest in contact lenses among patients. The discussion covers the benefits of contact lenses for both patients and practices, methods to increase contact lens capture rates, and the importance of consistent staff training. The episode also explores how to address common patient complaints about contact lenses, the business impact of fitting more patients with contact lenses, and innovative strategies for effectively presenting contact lenses to patients.    Learn more at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC  

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Robert Rivera from Shamir about their advanced lens technology aimed at enhancing driving safety and comfort. Rivera, who has extensive experience in optics, explains the features of Shamir's Driver Intelligence lenses, including special nighttime myopia correction and advanced AR coating to reduce visual noise. They discuss how these specialty lenses can differentiate optical practices and drive sales by addressing specific needs of patients. Rivera emphasizes the importance of product knowledge and patient engagement, suggesting methods for opticians and optometrists to introduce and market these lenses effectively.     Learn more about IDOC: Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Norm Kester, founder of the outdoor lifestyle brand RLVNT. Launched in 2019, RLVNT specializes in eyewear designed to meet the unique needs of outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and golf. Norm discusses the unmet demand in the market for specialized eyewear and how his products fill that gap. The conversation covers relevant statistics about the outdoor activity market, the innovative features of their eyewear, including UV and screen-view technology, and the importance of understanding and catering to patients' passions. The episode concludes with recommendations on how optometry practices can integrate and promote specialized eyewear solutions to better serve their patients.  Learn more at Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

In this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo dives into the intricacies of digital advertising, specifically focusing on Google Ads, to help practice owners increase visibility and attract more patients. Dr. Vargo is joined by Onyé Anyanwu, Senior Marketing Strategist at IDOC, who offers detailed insights into creating effective Google Ads campaigns. Key topics include keyword research, optimizing ad copy, tracking performance metrics, and understanding the future trends like AI in digital marketing. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their practice's marketing strategies.    Learn more about Optometry Marketing Services: https://optometrymarketingservices.com/

In this episode with Dr. Shane Swatts of Eastern Virginia Eye Associates and Riley Azevedo, marketing manager at Science Based Health, the focus is on helping practice owners develop successful dry eye specialties without significant upfront investments. Dr. Swatts discusses his diverse career, including working with professional athletes and his transition to specializing in dry eye treatments. Emphasizing the importance of foundational home therapy, Dr. Swatts talks about practical strategies like using a slit lamp, stains, and minimal but effective tools like meibography and slit lamp cameras for diagnosing and treating dry eye. Riley Azevedo contributes insights on integrating nutraceuticals and highlights the necessity of effective internal branding and marketing. Both guests underscore the importance of patient education, persistent follow-ups, and setting realistic expectations for treatments. The episode also touches on the future of dry eye management, emphasizing the roles of AI and proactive strategies in enhancing patient care.    Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/idocnet/   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IDOC.OptometricAlliance   LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/idoc     Interested in an optometry specialty? Join our community FB group https://www.facebook.com/groups/idocspecialty     Find more information about how IDOC can help your practice: Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

Dr. Susan Elizondo shares her journey of transforming her practice into a private pay model and focusing on high-end optical services. By dropping insurance plans and offering a premium experience, she has increased her revenue per patient and created a practice that aligns with her values and goals.  Learn more about IDOC: Optometry Practice Management & Alliance | IDOC

Artificial intelligence can't replace eyecare providers (not yet anyway), but it can certainly make our work lives easier. In this episode, we shine a spotlight on ChatGPT – a remarkable tool that harnesses AI to generate human-like text, images, and conversational dialogue. We'll share specific examples of how ChatGPT can simplify tasks and workflows in an eyecare practice, potentially saving you countless hours of work each week.   The future is here! With the help of AI technology, you can take working smarter, not harder, to a new level. 

Nathan Hayes, the director of financial services at IDOC, discusses the importance of comparing practice financials to other practices. He explains how IDOC's Books and Benchmarks service can provide accurate and reliable data to help practice owners make informed decisions about their business. 

Technology will continue to disrupt the eye care profession. This poses both opportunities and threats for ECPs. In this episode with Travis Beaven, Alcon's Global Vice President of Vision Care Digital Health, we discuss the role technology will play in the future of eye care.  A few things we discuss are which technologies will have the greatest impact on the eye care profession, artificial intelligence, adapting to change, privacy issues, and much more!    While change and disruption can be unsettling, it also opens the door for innovation and new opportunities that improve the experience for both provider and patient.   Learn more about MARLO: https://home.meetmarlo.com/

Managing billing operations has historically been one of the most challenging tasks of practice ownership. In this episode we explore the reasons for this, how practices are handling (or not handling) these challenges, and the evolving role of technology in billing. One of the more exciting platforms to hit the market is OneSpot, a centralized digital hub to streamline billing processes. OneSpot is productivity software for your insurance biller. The tool helps billers organize, manage, track, and resolve outstanding insurance claims. OneSpot also gives eyecare practice owners and managers visibility into their insurance billing operations, something that the PMS/EHR has not been able to do. Tune in to gain insights into the future of billing and the role OneSpot plays in shaping it. 

Resistance to a sale is often countered with additional patient education, assuming that more information will lower the barrier to a sale. In reality, many of our purchase decisions are not driven by what we KNOW about something, they're driven by what we FEEL about something.   Fear, excitement, anticipation, trust, safety, confusion, curiosity, and certainty are some examples of emotions that influence our purchase decisions. Research shows the overwhelming majority of our decisions are primarily driven by emotions, not logic.  In this episode we explore some of the not so obvious reasons people resist making a purchase, along with strategies to counter these situations. 

In this episode, Selin Olmsted (founder of Selin Olmsted Studio) shares her expertise on a topic many ODs marginalize. Eyewear fashion and design!  A few things we discuss are insights on the latest eyewear trends, factors to consider when selecting frames, options for implementing private label, and adapting to future trends.  Doctors know a lot about the clinical side of eye care. Patients want great vision and healthy eyes, but don't neglect something that is also very important to your patients… Looking good!  More about Selin and her company https://www.selinolmsted.com/ 

In this episode, Sharon Carter shares her strategies for getting “unstuck” and taking your practice to the next level.   We cover a lot of reasons practices fail to reach their full potential and how to put strategies in place to maintain growth. Spoiler alert! You can't do this alone. After a certain point, designating a leadership team is necessary. However, those efforts can be sabotaged by putting the wrong people in these roles. It's also possible that you have the right people with the right attributes, but your approach to promotion and development sets them up for failure.  What's the best way to track success? Numbers! In Sharon's words, “The numbers don't lie.” In this interview we cover the importance of KPI's (key performance indicators), which KPI's to track, and how to hold employees accountable for outcomes.  Sharon is the owner of ECOC Optometric Consulting. Learn more about her company here: https://ecoc.biz/ 

In this episode, Dr. Mike Neal shares how he transformed his practice by removing many of the obstacles that prevent practice owners from building a great team.   A few things we discuss are taking emotion out of the interview process, the importance of focusing on talents and strengths rather than just experience, what we can learn from companies like Disney to ensure better hires, and how to get clear on which applicants to reject and which to call in for an interview.  If you're ready to change the game and set yourself up for hiring success, you'll love this episode!  Dr. Mike Neal is the owner and CEO of Build My Team. Learn more about his company here: https://www.buildmyteam.com/ 

In this episode, we explore the key elements of a successful staff meeting that leaves a lasting impact. The planning phase takes center stage, emphasizing the importance of identifying the need, purpose, and intention of the meeting. The episode highlights the perpetual nature of issues to address and emphasizes the value of delivering a clear and focused message, recognizing that less is more when it comes to information absorption.  Collaboration is introduced as a powerful tool during staff meetings, illustrating how discussions among attendees can enhance information retention. The "So what?" test is discussed as a practical tool for filtering information, ensuring that only essential and impactful content is included in meetings. Authenticity in delivery is emphasized, covering gestures, tone, and conviction. Tune in to discover actionable insights for transforming your staff meetings into engaging and effective sessions.  More about Erin at https://erinmomalley.com/ 

In this episode, Dr. Aaron Neufeld shares his strategies for leveraging referrals from other doctors to grow his practice.   When it comes to marketing your practice, many ODs think of traditional marketing strategies such as social media, online or print marketing, and having a great website. These are all important to grow a practice, but in this technological world we often marginalize face to face marketing.  In this interview, we focus on Dr. Neufeld's strategies for securing more referrals, what to expect when you begin this process, which doctors to target, how to sustain a very productive relationship, and how to overcome some of the obstacles you will likely face. 

In this episode, Stanford lecturer Matt Abrahams shares valuable insights about listening and communication from his book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot   Doctors are tasked with solving problems for their patients, but as Matt points out, it's not hard to solve problems, it's hard to find the right problems to solve.   In this interview, we focus on asking better questions and sharpening our listening skills. Matt says that questions get the other person more invested in the problem itself and the desire to solve it. “When it comes to communication, we over index on the speaking part and we need to balance that out with the listening part,” he says. When it comes to establishing connections, building trust, and uncovering problems (all vital to patient care), we need to do more listening than talking.  More about Matt at Mattabrahams.com 

The best practices are NOT constantly trying to motivate people, they just have better systems in place, and they manage the systems. That's much easier than constantly managing (and motivating) people.  Do you agree or disagree with the above? In this episode, I take on the interviewee role as Erich Mattei, President of Akrinos, interviews me on this topic for his podcast. We attempt to answer the question, “Which is more effective when it comes to managing employees, motivation or systems?” 

One of the biggest checks you write is to your lab, yet many practices seem to tolerate a lot of bad service from the labs they partner with. Dr. Barton Higley is one doctor who had enough, ultimately partnering with an independent lab out of Pittsburgh called Three Rivers Optical.  In this episode Dr. Higley describes his struggles with the labs he used prior. Poor customer service, poor quality, and inexperienced reps led him to pursue alternatives. Based on prior experience he was understandably skeptical, but he explains how Three Rivers Optical surpassed all his expectations.  Dr. Higley asked himself an important question, “Does their business model align with our practice model?” After partnering this Three Rivers his question was answered. They did! Does YOUR lab align with YOUR practice model?   Find out more: https://3riversoptical.com/  Link to meet with Dr. Higley: https://go.oncehub.com/HigleyThreeRiversPeerConsulting 

Approximately 50 percent of doctors are experiencing professional burnout. In this episode we explore the most common reasons for this and what you can do to overcome it. While much of the attention for reducing physician burnout has been focused on getting away from patient care, also called escapism, this isn't a realistic option for all doctors and it's also not always the most effective option. A more sustainable approach is not getting away from patient care, but rather changing how we provide patient care. The focus of this episode is on shifting from a transactional model back to a relational model. A more personalized approach to patient care combined with a greater sense of accomplishment can help restore the joy and satisfaction in the profession of eye care.