Optometric Insights Media

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Send us a textAbout Ran Yam:Ran Yam, CEO and co-founder.Ran has decades of experience in developing optical systems and medical devices for different industries such as defense, optical communication, semi-conductors and ophthalmology . In his previous position as VP R&D for Visionix, a global leader in eye care solutions, he was responsible for developing innovative, cutting edge eye diagnostics products that are available globally. Ran holds a BSc in Mechanical Engineering (Cum Laude) from the Israeli Technion and has nine patents to his name.Novasight: https://nova-sight.com/---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textDry eye diagnosis has entered a new era. In this episode, Dr. Kading breaks down the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society's DEWS III Diagnostic Methodology Report (2025)  explaining how the new definition, streamlined tests, and driver-based model are transforming clinical practice. Learn what's changed since DEWS II, why OSDI-6 is now the global standard, and how a single diagnostic framework can unify patient care around the world.

Send us a textAbout Dr. Dunn Dr. Dunn graduated from Pacific University College of Optometry in 2013 and then completed a residency at the Roseburg VA in Roseburg, Oregon specializing in geriatric care and ocular disease. After completing her residency, she opened a private practice as well as becoming an assistant professor at Pacific's College of Optometry. Dr. Dunn provides comprehensive and medical eye exams for the entire family, with a specialty in dry eye disease.Since the start of optometry school, Dr. Dunn has been highly active in organized optometry. As a student she represented her school on the AOSA Board of Trustees, and in her fourth year of school was elected the Vice President of all the optometry schools in North America. Since graduation she has served on several committees within the American Optometric Association, served five years on the board for the Oregon Optometric Physicians Association and is the Executive Director for the Arizona Optometric Association.Dr. Dunn was awarded Young OD of the year for Oregon in 2018, the American Optometric Association Media Advocacy Award in 2022 and the Social Media award in 2023 in Oregon.When not seeing patients, Dr. Dunn enjoys spending time traveling with her husband and kids or surrounding herself with other women of faith in adventures.

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Send us a textAbout Dr. Monica Jong:Assistant Professor, Discipline of Optometry, University of Canberra, Australia Asia Optometric Myopia Academy (AOMA) Advisor Visiting Fellow, School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney Secretary of the Refractive Error Working Group, International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness Former International Myopia Institute (IMI) Executive Director, BHVI SydneyMonica is a graduate from the Optometry program at the University of Melbourne, where she also completed her PhD investigating the structure and function relationship using optical coherence tomography in inherited retinal disease She then undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Toronto in retinal imaging and blood flow in diabetic eye disease. Monica is the former Executive Director of the International Myopia Institute (IMI), the premier working group of over one experts in the field of myopia established after the first WHO-BHVI Meeting on Myopia in 2015 to advance myopia research, education and patient care, to prevent future vision impairment and blindness. Monica led the IMI from its inception in 2015 until late 2021 and under her direction the IMI has brought consensus to the area of myopia management, published two volumes of white papers in the Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences high impact journal, clinical summaries in up to fourteen languages, as well as a chairside reference for practitioners. Monica has authored numerous peer reviewed publications in the area of myopia and high myopia risk factors, pathology and epidemiology. She co-authored the WHO report on the Impact of Myopia and High Myopia, and was the co-creator of the first accredited global online myopia management education program. Monica speaks regularly at key international scientific and practitioner meetings between teaching and mentoring students.---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textIn this episode of The Myopia Podcast, we have Matt Oerding to share with us the 3 principles to grow your myopia management practice, his company Treehouse Eyes and GMACAbout Matt Oerding:Matt Oerding is the Co-Founder and CEO, Treehouse Eyes. An executive with 25 years of experience with Novartis, General Mills and General Electric. He has held leadership roles in marketing, strategy and general management in the U.S., Europe and Asia.Passionate about making a difference in people's lives, has focused on the eye care sector since 2001. Is also the past Board Chair for the Global Myopia Awareness Coalition (GMAC), a coalition of 15 companies and associations focused on driving public awareness of childhood myopia and treatment options. Lives in Boulder, Colorado with his wife and 2 daughters.---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a text Inside the podcast, you will learn about the following:   What is Justin Kwan's role and other people's role in Copervision?  What area of Optometric practice do he miss the most?  What fulfills him and gives him more joy?  What are some key aspects that are  best practices in communicating with staff, communicating with parents, and as an myopia expert communicating with professionals? About Dr. Justin Kwan:Dr. Justin Kwan is a 2009 graduate of Berkeley and went on to do a contact lens and dry eye residency at SCCO. He taught and saw patients there for eight years before moving to Chicago three years ago. In April 2020, he transitioned to CooperVision full time in the role of senior manager, myopia management. In his 12 year career, he has given over 100 hours of continuing education. Dr. Kwan is the current president of the Chicago North Side Optometric Society, chair of the Fellows Doing Research SIG of the Academy, and a member of the Intrepid Eye Society.---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textThis is a replay of the webinar Dr. David Kading held on how to implement myopia management into practice.---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textFollowing our TFOS DEWS III deep dive into neuromodulation, this episode explores new evidence from a 2024 meta-analysis on trigeminal parasympathetic pathway stimulation. Learn how electrical and chemical nasal stimulation activate the natural tear reflex, improving both symptoms and signs of ocular surface disease — with strong safety and functional benefits.

Send us a textAbout Eef van der Worp, BOptom, PhD, FAAO, FIACLE, FBCLA, FSLSEef van der Worp is an educator and researcher. He received his optometry degree from the Hogeschool van Utrecht in the Netherlands (NL) and has served as a head of the contact lens department at the school for over eight years. Eef received his PhD from the University of Maastricht (NL) in 2008. He now runs his own research & education consultancy 'Eye-Contact-Lens' which is based in Amsterdam (NL), and gives courses on ‘How to Present'.He is a fellow of the AAO, BCLA and the SLS, a lifetime fellow of IACLE and a honorly life member or the Dutch contact lens association ANVC. And he is on the education committee for a number of conferences, including the Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) in the US and the Dutch Contact Lens Conference (NCC) and Dutch Optometric Society meeting (OVN). He is a board member of the BCLA journal Contact Lens & Anterior Eye.Eef is adjunct assistant Professor at Pacific University College of Optometry (Oregon, USA), and adjunct Professor at the University of Montreal University College of Optometry (CA) and he is lecturing extensively worldwide and is a guest lecturer at a number of Universities in the US and Europe.---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textIt was so great to know more about the international perspective in Myopia management. Listen to this episode as I talk to Dr. Maria Liu on how they do Myopia in China.About Dr. Maria Liu:Dr. Maria Liu is an associate professor at UC Berkeley School of Optometry, and the founder of the Myopia Control Clinic of UC Berkeley Eye Center. She received her bachelor degree of clinical medicine from Peking University, her OD from Pacific University, her PhD and MPH from UC Berkeley. She is a world renowned clinical researcher in the field of myopia and her expertise focus on the impact of complex multifocal environment on emmetropization and myopia development, as well as novel optical and pharmaceutical treatments in myopia retardation.Where to find her:https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-%E5%88%98%E6%82%A6-liu-754185b/---If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textIf you are starting our your Myopia practice, Dr. Elise Kramer and Dr. Stephanie are definitely crushing it in marketing their Myopia practice. Listen this episode to get great tips!About Dr. Woo:Dr. Woo is an adjunct professor at Midwestern University. Dr. Woo enjoys lecturing around the world on the subject of contact lenses and anterior segment ocular disease. Dr. Woo owns the Contact Lens Institute of Nevada, a clinic dedicated entirely to custom contact lenses.  The Contact Lens Institute offers revolutionary technology such as the EyePrintProsthetic and sMap scleral topography to assist in complex clinical cases. In her spare time, Dr. Woo is an avid wine collector and is a Level 2 WSET Sommelier. More About Dr. Woo:Here are some links:www.clinevada.comwww.drstephaniewoo.comwoou.orgSocial media:@drstephaniewooHere is a free PDF that I created for doctors who want some tips on how to start a specialty practice: https://www.drstephaniewoo.com/11-tipsHere is the 8 week coaching programed Dr. Stephanie Woo provides: https://www.drstephaniewoo.com/optometry-consultingAbout Dr. Elise Kramer:Dr. Elise Kramer is a residency-trained optometrist in Miami FL who specializes in ocular surface disease and regular and specialty contact lens fitting.Her Doctorate degree was awarded in Optometry from the Université de Montréal in 2012 where she received a grant from the Scholarship Program of the Québec Ministry of Education for short-term university studies outside of Québec. Receipt of this scholarship award is based on academic performance. In the summer of her second year, she participated in a humanitarian mission in Laayoune, Morocco where she helped hundreds of impoverished people by giving them free eye examinations and glasses corresponding as closely as possible to their prescription.During her fourth year, she completed her internship in ocular disease at the Eye Centers of South Florida and went on to complete her residency at the Miami VA Medical Center. Her time there included training at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the nation's top eye hospital. After her residency, Dr. Kramer became a fellow of the Scleral Lens Education Society (SLS) and now serves as the Public Education Chair for the SLS. Dr. Kramer is a member of the American Optometric Association (AOA), the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE) and a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO). She is also the Delegate of International Relations for the Italian Association of Scleral Lenses (AILeS).  Dr. Kramer has published several important articles and reviews and participates in clinical research trials. She enjoys lecturing all around the world in several different languages about ocular surface disease and specialty lenses. She strives to assist each patient with quality and advanced eye care whether he or she requires a basic eye exam or specialized eye or vision care. Where to find her:Dr. Kramer's IG to https://www.instagram.com/drelisekramer/Private Practice: Miami Contact Lens Institute:

Send us a textJoin us as we explore the fascinating topographies that play a crucial role in enhancing myopia management success.Randy Kojima, with years of experience and a wealth of knowledge, guides us through the intricate landscapes of myopia management strategies. From innovative technologies to strategic interventions, we uncover the topographical nuances that can make a significant impact on effectively managing myopia.Discover the latest advancements in myopia research and gain valuable insights into the importance of personalized approaches. Randy shares real-world case studies and success stories, shedding light on how topographies have transformed the landscape of myopia management for both practitioners and patients alike.Whether you're a seasoned optometrist, a curious researcher, or someone affected by myopia, this episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the tools and techniques that contribute to successful myopia management outcomes.Tune in as we navigate through the multifaceted terrains of myopia management with Randy Kojima, unraveling the complexities and discovering the topographical keys to achieving success in the field. Don't miss this insightful conversation on The Myopia Podcast!About Randy Kojima:Randy Kojima is the Clinical Research and Development Director for Precision Technology based in Vancouver, Canada. He also serves as Research Scientist and Clinical Instructor at the Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon. Additionally, he is a clinical advisor to Medmont Instruments in Melbourne, Australia.Randy has published numerous articles and submitted posters on various contact lens related topics as well as been a contributing author in a number of text book chapters. He lectures globally and enjoys sharing insights, methods and research with eye care colleagues from around the world.Randy is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, the British Contact Lens Association, the Scleral Lens Education Society and the International Academy of Orthokeratology.Review for Myopia Management: https://reviewofmm.com/------If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textIn this podcast we will pick his brain to talk with us about the Business Model of Myopia Management. He will walk us through the business models he heard of. Here we can learn the biggest roadblock oh how he incorporates myopia management to a busy primary care practice. As we all know Myopia practice takes a little bit of time.If you want to implement and you don't want to do this yourself then you need to HIRE a recent graduate that has an interest in children and myopia management.  About Dr. Dwight Akerman: Dr. Dwight Akerman serves as the Chief Medical Editor at Review of Myopia Management, the world's most widely subscribed myopia journal. He is an internationally recognized senior healthcare leader with extensive experience in myopia management, peer education & communications, medical marketing, innovation, financial management, and M&A/business development & licensing.Dr. Akerman was the Vice President & Global Head of Professional Affairs & Business Development for Alcon before retiring from this role in 2019. He has published widely and is a frequently invited peer educator on myopia management, cornea, contact lens, and business management topics. Dr. Akerman graduated cum laude from the Illinois College of Optometry and earned an MBA degree from the University of Texas. He has achieved the status of Diplomate of the American Academy of Optometry Cornea, Contact Lenses & Refractive Technologies Section, Fellow of the International Association of Contact Lens Educators, and Fellow of the British Contact Lens Association. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Illinois College of Optometry. --------Thanks to TEEM for their support of this episode. If you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textHow Cytokines Tell the Dry Eye StoryHello, I am Dr. David Kading. Welcome to Eyecare's Lit brought to you by Optometric Insights Media.  In this episode, we unpack four key studies that reveal how immune messengers in tears shape the biology of dry eye disease.We're going to look at two major meta-analyses and the DREAM biomarker studies.  These studies show us that the cytokine balance plays a key role in driving inflammation, disease severity, and the mismatch between symptoms and signs in both routine and autoimmune dry eye.Hopefully we can better discover how understanding these molecular “conversations” could guide personalized diagnosis and treatment.Sources:Aljohani S, Jazzar A. Tear cytokine levels in sicca syndrome-related dry eye: a meta-analysis. Diagnostics (Basel). 2023;13.Roda M et al. Dry eye disease and tear cytokine levels — a meta-analysis. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;21.Zhao CS et al. Association of tear cytokine ratios with symptoms and signs of dry eye disease. Curr Eye Res. 2024;49:16-24.Chen Y et al. A latent profile analysis of tear cytokines and their association with severity of dry eye disease in the DREAM study. Sci Rep. 2024;14:526.Links:https://www.mdpi.com/2075-4418/13/13/2184?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://iris.unica.it/retrieve/9bc09789-cd1d-408c-bd70-f6269d95e0fd/RODA_cytokines_ijms-21-03111.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10841381/?utm_source=chatgpt.comhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/377157605_A_latent_profile_analysis_of_tear_cytokines_and_their_association_with_severity_of_dry_eye_disease_in_the_Dry_Eye_Assessment_and_Management_DREAM_study?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Send us a textAbout Dr. Harbir Sian ODDr. Harbir Sian is the co-owner of three optometric practices in British Columbia. In the clinic, Dr. Sian enjoys practicing various specialties within eyecare, particularly myopia management and dry eye.After completing his Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry in 2010, Dr. Sian found that he was passionate about giving back to those who have less access to care and about educating the public and professionals in various settings.Over the years, Harbir has volunteered in multiple mobile vision clinics, including global clinics South America and in the Middle East. He has taken his passion for education to countless stages and conferences around North America, including giving a TEDx talk titled "Our Eyes Are The Windows to Our Soul”, which shared the magic and power of the human visual system. Harbir was named as one of the Contact Lens Institute's 2025 Visionaries. He is also the host of Canada's number 1 optometry podcast, The 20/20 Podcast which showcases successful guests from various industries and backgrounds.

Send us a textIn this insightful conversation, we explore the question: Is myopia truly a disease? Join us as Mark Bullimore sheds light on the intricate nuances of this visual condition and its impact on our overall eye health.Discover the significance of each diopter and gain a deeper understanding of why it matters. About Mark Bullimore:Professor Bullimore is an internationally renowned scientist, speaker, and educator based in Boulder, Colorado. He received his Optometry degree and PhD in Vision Science from Aston University in Birmingham, England. He spent most of his career at the Ohio State University and the University of California at Berkeley and is now Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston. He is Associate Editor of Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics and the former Editor of Optometry and Vision Science. His expertise in myopia, contact lenses, low vision, presbyopia, and refractive surgery means that he is consultant for a number of ophthalmic, surgical, and pharmaceutical companies. This work has resulted in approval of, among others, Paragon CRT, Alcon's iLux, and CooperVision's MiSight lens.Resources Mentioned:Myopia Calculator linkhttps://bhvi.org/myopia-calculator-resources/Why every diopter mattershttps://journals.lww.com/optvissci/Abstract/2019/06000/Myopia_Control__Why_Each_Diopter_Matters.11.aspxThe Risks and Benefits of Myopia Controlhttps://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(21)00326-2/fulltext

Send us a textWhy do we think Atropine works?  If you think it is because of accommodation, think again.  We also discuss concentrations and the studies leading to how I use atropine in my practice.  Also, Jeff speaks about a recent study talking about what your patients will experience when they use atropine.  Jeff's work in the area of Myopia has been so influential in my myopia practice. About Dr. Jeff Walline:Jeffrey J. Walline, OD PhD is the Associate Dean for Research at The Ohio State University College of Optometry. He received his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Optometry, and he received his Master's and PhD degrees from The Ohio State University College of Optometry. Dr. Walline has led several pediatric contact lens studies, and he is the Study Chair of the Bifocal Lenses In Nearsighted Kids (BLINK) Study, a National Eye Institute-sponsored randomized clinical trial to investigate the myopia control effects of soft multifocal contact lenses.Where to find Dr. Jeff Walline:Instagram: @jwalline1

Send us a textToday we are honored to have Patrick Caroline about the history of Myopia Management.About Mr. Caroline:Mr. Caroline serves as Associate Professor at Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove Oregon. He is a Fellow member and Diplomat of the Cornea and Contact Lens Section of the American Academy of Optometry. For the past thirty years Patrick has served as a contributing editor for the Contact Lens Spectrum.He has published over 360 papers on a wide range of contact lens topics and has lectured extensively throughout the world.

Send us a textDr. Kading has been involved in Myopia world since 2005 and has been passionate about stopping the progression of Myopia. As many of you know, Myopia is on the rise and it has been known as the other Global Pandemic. In this podcast, we will share with you insights from the world renowned people in Myopia field.About Dr. David KadingDave Kading has been recognized by his peers as one of the top 50 most influential optometrists of all time, as a top innovator in eyecare, and in 2017 was listed among the top 10 practices in eyecare. His progressive and forward thinking approach to healthcare and tech work to bring about a new and fresh perspective. He consults with healthcareand technology companies around the world to help them see what thefuture might bring.Dr. Kading completed his specialty training in Custom Contact lenses andCornea Disease. He now hosts a fellowship program on dry eye andspecialized contact lens fitting at his 4 doctor 2 location practice in SeattleWashington.The Specialty Dry Eye and Contact lens center is a referral based dry eyeand CL practice specializing in complex and rudimentary dry eye andcontact lenses. The practice also produces cutting edge research. He haswritten over a hundred articles and papers, and has given several hundredlectures internationally.Dr. Kading is expanding the methods of gaining eyecare informationthrough his social media and digital channels. He has a regular vlog poston his youtube page: davekading. He also has a regular Video Columncalled Clinical Insights, several columns in Contact Lens Spectrum, and anemail column in Contact Lens Today.Above all things, he enjoys spending time with his optometrist wife, Dr.Kristi Kading and their three daughtersDr. Dave Kading Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davekading/Twitter: https://twitter.com/davekadingYoutube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgOLUIpBhiQYrX9NmXJsTkgIf you're considering or have ever considered getting a virtual team member for your practice check out hiredteem.com, mention The Myopia Podcast when signing up for a $250 dollar discount off of your first month's teem member.https://hireteem.com/myopia-podcast/

Send us a textAbout Dr. Kaleb Abbott Abbott is an optometrist and assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is affiliated with both the Dry Eye Clinic and the Center for Ocular Inflammation, where he specializes in complex ocular surface diseases and participates in clinical trials and research related to these conditions. In addition to his clinical and research roles, he serves as vice-president for the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society, is Chair of the Nutrition, Disease Prevention, and Wellness Special Interest Group (SIG) for the American Academy of Optometry (AAO), and is a member of the advisory council for the Academic Medical Center Optometry AAO SIG. He also holds a position on the editorial advisory board for Modern Optometry and Optometry360 and is a graduate of the AAO Flom Leadership Academy. Furthermore, he hosts the Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease section of the Clinical Podcast Series through the American Academy of Optometry Foundation. In 2024, he was nominated for Colorado's Young Optometrist of the Year and recognized as a “One-to-Watch” by Modern Optometry.In 2019, Kaleb co-founded SunSnap Kids, a start-up that won first place in the inaugural Bright Ideas Pitch Competition in 2022 and third place in the Optometry Innovation Awards in 2023. He recently sold the majority of the company to focus more on his clinical and research responsibilities at the University of Colorado.When he's not seeing patients, conducting research, or working on SunSnap Kids, Dr. Abbott lectures on ocular surface diseases, writes articles, and serves as a medical reviewer for multiple journals, including The Ocular Surface and Optometry and Vision Science. He resides in Denver, CO, with his wife, daughter, and newborn twins.

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Send us a textAbout Maria Pribis, OD, FAAO, Diplomate of the American Board of optometry from the University of Pittsburgh where she was a member of the dance team. She then graduated with high honors from Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University. While in optometry school she was president of SOSH. Dr. Pribis was inducted into BSK honor society. She completed an ocular disease residency at the Baltimore VA Hospital. During this time she rotated through Johns Hopkins cornea and specialty contact lens clinics. She's been a partner in private practice in Stamford, CT since 2010. She specializes in ocular surface disease and contact lenses and has a special interest in myopia control. Dr. Pribis lectures extensively with the optometry education company, KMK. Dr. Pribis was awarded Connecticut's young optometrist of the year award in early 2015. She is the founder of Ocularprime, which is a website that encourages you to “Live in Your OcularPrime,” which is a short phrase designed to support a commitment to consistency across the entire health spectrum for those who want to become the best version of themselves. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter. 

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Send us a textAbout Julie Rodman, OD, MSC, FAAODr. Julie Rodman is the Chief of the Broward Eye Care Institute in Fort Lauderdale, FL and a Professor of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University. She also is the Instructor of Record for Posterior Segment Disease at the College. Her research interests include OCT/OCTA and Vitreoretinal Disease. Dr. Rodman has authored over thirty publications with an emphasis on retinal disease. She recently published “Optical Coherence Tomography Atlas: A Case Study Approach”, the first reference book on this topic written by an optometrist. Dr. Rodman is a member of the AOA, AAO, FOA, and ORS. She has been the recipient of numerous teaching awards, was recognized as a Primary Care Optometry News “Top 300” Optometrists and “Newsweek Best Optometrists of 2023”.

Send us a textAbout Dr. Aaron Werner, OD Graduated from the Illinois College of Optometry, following his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather in becoming a doctor of optometry.  He is president of Werner Optometry in San Diego, CA a two-doctor multi-generation optometry practice that provides comprehensive primary eye care services. Aaron is passionate about helping others achieve their full potential and serves as the Senior Director Learning and Development for Vision Source. A native of southern California, Aaron is an avid hiker, runner, enjoys playing soccer, surfing and spending time with his wife, 3 children and grandson.Aaron hosts the Aaron Werner Podcast on EyeCode MediaApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/eyecode-media/id1449429774Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/6sGffC4Y3BXFc5pBxvcJNEYouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYyWZ4Y_ub2_akEj2kielFA

Send us a textAbout Dr. Mila IoussifovaDr. Mila Ioussifova graduated with honors from the New England College of Optometry and completed a residency program in community health and ocular disease in Boston, MA. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and is on the leadership team of the Anterior Segment Section of the AAO. Dr. Mila served as an adjunct clinical faculty at the Pacific University College of Optometry and was an examiner for the National Board of Examiners in Optometry. She is involved with her state association and advocacy efforts, and she is the Director of Education for the Oregon Optometric Physicians Association. Dr. Mila is a Board-Certified Nutrition Specialist and is a fellow of the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society. Dr. Mila owns a private practice in Portland, OR, with special interests in advanced dry eye treatments, nutritional counseling, and aesthetic services.

Send us a textAbout:Alex Kotelsky is a medical device engineer at Bausch + Lomb where he leads innovative optical projects in the research and development of advanced contact lens designs.With a robust background in both theoretical and applied sciences, Alex has a Ph.D. and has postdoctoral training in biomechanics and mechanobiology of articular cartilage and chondrocytes. His research has produced multiple peer-reviewed publications that shed light on the mechanical interactions within biological systems. By integrating biology, mechanics and optics, Alex brings aninterdisciplinary approach that advances both the performance and comfort of contact lenses, benefiting eye care professionals and patients alike.In addition to his research, Alex is deeply committed to education, fostering the next generation of engineers and scientists. His dedication to teaching has earned him multiple accolades, including the prestigious Edward Peck Curtis Award for Excellence in Teaching and recognition as a Top 3 Finalist for Tutor Doctor's Tutor of the Year 2019 award.James DiBella is a Senior Principal Scientist and head of Polymer Chemistry at Bausch + Lomb, where he leads a team focused on creating innovative materials and solutions for the contact lens and ophthalmic industries. Since joining Bausch + Lomb in 2015, James has been instrumental in product development for the company's vision care business. He notably co-invented Bausch + Lomb's latest contact lens technology - Bausch + Lomb INFUSE ® .He holds a bachelor's degree in Organic Chemistry from Clemson University as well as a master's degree in Organic Chemistry from the Florida Institute of Technology. He is also in the process of obtaining a master's degree in business administration from Manning School of Business at the University of Massachusetts to merge his scientific expertise with strategic business acumen.

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Send us a textAbout Dr. Jade CoatsDr. Jade Coats is a 2016 of the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN, and since graduation has worked in an OD/MD cataract/refractive surgery practice (McDonald Eye Associates, Rogers, Arkansas) in which she dedicates the majority of her clinical practice to ocular disease, comprehensive eye care, and contact lenses. Honored as a Contact Lens Institute Visionary in both 2023 and 2024, Dr. Coats is also a board member for Women in Optometry, the Intrepid Eye Society, and YoungODsConnect. She is an active member of the American Optometric Association as a graduate of the AOA Leadership Institute 1.0 and 2.0 programs, and was also elected in 2024 to serve as a Director on the Arkansas Optometric Association board.   In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Coats serves on the advisory board and/or as a speaker for over ten pharmaceutical companies and is an editorial board member for numerous publications.  She also regularly contributes to leading industry publications, with her work appearing in Advanced Ocular Care, Primary Care Ocular News, Healio, Review of Optometry, Optometry Times, Optometric Management, and Modern Optometry, to name a few. Receiving several local, state, and national awards for her dedication to philanthropy and her profession, Dr. Coats has also recently been honored as one of NWA Celebrate Arkansas Magazine's 'Ones to Watch' in 2023.  https://digitaleditions.walsworth.com/publication/?m=9337&i=805683&p=80&ver=html5.   In Dr. Coats' spare time, she serves on the Board of Directors for Hope Cancer Resources and Circle of Life Hospice in Northwest Arkansas and has established a non-profit organization known as “Caton's Cubs” that works in coordination with Arkansas Hospice. You may find Dr. Coats enjoys calling the Hogs at Razorback games, scuba diving, traveling the world, or volunteering in her community. (Or, hanging out with her husband, Jeff Coats, who is also an Optometrist!)

Send us a textAbout Dr. Jade CoatsDr. Jade Coats is a 2016 of the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, TN, and since graduation has worked in an OD/MD cataract/refractive surgery practice (McDonald Eye Associates, Rogers, Arkansas) in which she dedicates the majority of her clinical practice to ocular disease, comprehensive eye care, and contact lenses. Honored as a Contact Lens Institute Visionary in both 2023 and 2024, Dr. Coats is also a board member for Women in Optometry, the Intrepid Eye Society, and YoungODsConnect. She is an active member of the American Optometric Association as a graduate of the AOA Leadership Institute 1.0 and 2.0 programs, and was also elected in 2024 to serve as a Director on the Arkansas Optometric Association board.   In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Coats serves on the advisory board and/or as a speaker for over ten pharmaceutical companies and is an editorial board member for numerous publications.  She also regularly contributes to leading industry publications, with her work appearing in Advanced Ocular Care, Primary Care Ocular News, Healio, Review of Optometry, Optometry Times, Optometric Management, and Modern Optometry, to name a few. Receiving several local, state, and national awards for her dedication to philanthropy and her profession, Dr. Coats has also recently been honored as one of NWA Celebrate Arkansas Magazine's 'Ones to Watch' in 2023.  https://digitaleditions.walsworth.com/publication/?m=9337&i=805683&p=80&ver=html5.   In Dr. Coats' spare time, she serves on the Board of Directors for Hope Cancer Resources and Circle of Life Hospice in Northwest Arkansas and has established a non-profit organization known as “Caton's Cubs” that works in coordination with Arkansas Hospice. You may find Dr. Coats enjoys calling the Hogs at Razorback games, scuba diving, traveling the world, or volunteering in her community. (Or, hanging out with her husband, Jeff Coats, who is also an Optometrist!)

Send us a textAbout Dr. John D. Marvin,John D. Marvin is a visionary entrepreneur, acclaimed columnist, and influential leader dedicated to empowering others to unlock their full potential. As President and CEO of Texas State Optical, John has cultivated a thriving business network while spearheading initiatives in health and wellness consulting and eyecare partnerships. With a steadfast commitment to personal growth, John has spent years studying the transformative power of mindset and the “inner game” in achieving success. Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Through his unwavering dedication to making a difference, John D. Marvin epitomizes the essenceof leadership and empowerment, making him a compelling guest for any podcast seeking to inspire and motivate their audience. TSO brings in around 110M$ in revenue annually.

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Send us a textAbout Dr. KalfayanDr. Nona Kalfayan is a leading expert in her field of primary eye health, and a highly sought-after physician specializing in treating dry eye disease nationwide. She holds a Doctor of Optometry Degree from Nova Southeastern University (NSU) College of Optometry, specializing in advanced ocular surface disease. Dr. Kalfayan's dedication lies in holistic and preventive eye care. As the founder of Atlantic Eyecare & Spa in Pompano Beach, Florida, she specializes in Dry Eye, non-surgical ocular aesthetics, specialty contact lenses and myopic control. Atlantic Eyecare & Spa is renowned for its cutting-edge diagnostic technology and drop-less treatments for dry eye condition. Dr. Kalfayan was honored as one of “America's Top Optometrists” in 2012 and is a frequent public speaker, healthcare consultant, and advisor to some major institutions in the eye care industry. Additionally, she serves as the treasurer for the Broward County Optometric Association and is a member of the Florida Optometric Association and the American Optometric Association.

Send us a textIn this episode of The OI Show, Dr. Dave Kading reconnects with Dr. Jennifer Stewart, a visionary in optometry and practice management. After selling her successful large group practice in 2022, Dr. Stewart took a leap of faith, stepping away from clinical care and embarking on a transformative journey of consulting, speaking, and self-reflection. Fast forward to 2024, she's back with a cold-start boutique practice in New Canaan, Connecticut, redefining what it means to create a patient-centered optometric experience.Key Takeaways:The challenges and rewards of stepping away from a large practice and starting fresh.How Dr. Stewart built a streamlined, patient-focused practice with no front desk, paperless systems, and a smaller but highly efficient team.Insights into controlling costs, balancing high-quality care with profitability, and creating a unique patient experience.Lessons learned from listening, observing, and taking inspiration from industry trends while crafting a personalized vision for her new practice.Dr. Stewart shares candidly about her journey, from moments of doubt to the triumph of building a practice that aligns with her passion and values.Looking for inspiration to start fresh or rethink your practice model? Tune in to hear Dr. Stewart's actionable insights and innovative approaches. Don't forget to subscribe to The OI Show for more episodes with industry leaders and leave us a 5-star review to help others discover these transformative conversations!

About Dr. Elise KramerDr. Elise Kramer is a residency-trained optometrist in Miami FL who specializes in ocular surface disease and specialty contact lens design and fitting.Her Doctorate degree was awarded in Optometry from the Université de Montréal in 2012. During her fourth year, she completed her internship in ocular disease at the Eye Centers of South Florida and went on to complete her residency at the Miami VA Medical Center. Her time there included training at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, the nation's top eye hospital. After her residency, Dr. Kramer became a fellow of the Scleral Lens Education Society (SLS) and now serves as the vice president for the SLS. Dr. Kramer is also vice president of Women in Eyecare (WiE), a member of the American Optometric Association (AOA), the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE), a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (AAO) and of the the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA). She is also the Delegate of International Relations for the Italian Association of Scleral Lenses (AILeS).  Dr. Kramer has published several important articles and reviews and is participates in clinical research trials. She enjoys lecturing all around the world in several different languages about ocular surface disease and specialty lenses. 

In this episode of The OI Show, Dr. Dave Kading sits down with Zach Denning, Director of Scientific and Professional Affairs at Science Based Health, to explore the fascinating intersection of dry eye management and nutrition. With over two decades in the field, Zach sheds light on the science of omega fatty acids and their role in combating ocular inflammation and improving tear production.Key Takeaways:The groundbreaking role of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) in dry eye management, sourced from plant-based oils like black currant seed oil.Insights into clinical trials showcasing GLA's ability to lower inflammation, improve corneal smoothness, and enhance patient outcomes.How nutrition complements traditional dry eye treatments for a holistic inside-out approach.The critical difference between GLA and traditional omega-3 fish oils, plus tips for explaining these distinctions to patients.Strategies for ensuring patient compliance with evidence-based nutritional therapies.Want to elevate your dry eye care? Learn how nutrition can play a transformative role in patient outcomes! Listen now and subscribe to The OI Show for more insights from leading experts in the field. Visit ScienceBasedHealth.com to explore their innovative products and resources.About Zac Denning Zac Denning is the Director of Scientific & Professional Affairs at ScienceBased Health (SBH), which he joined in 1999. Following his passion for science, Mr. Denning studied biology and biochemistry at Evergreen where he received his Bachelor of Science. Working alongside scientists, clinicians and researchers, he has helped SBH pioneer new categories of eye supplements that are now widely recognized and utilized in eye care. Zac travels and presents widely, educating eye doctors and medical groups about the scientific basis for eye nutrition.Zac has also helped maintain the company's focus on primary clinical research in areas like dry eye and glaucoma. As a leader in eye nutrition and dry eye, Zac serves on the Corporate Advisory Board for Dry Eye Access and other companies, and has been profiled or featured in a variety of eyecare publications.

Join Dr. Mile Brujic on the OI Show as he delves into the intricate world of neuropathic ocular pain with expert guest, Dr. Kaleb Abbott. As an optometrist and assistant professor at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Dr. Abbott specializes in complex ocular surface diseases. Together, they uncover the nuances of neuropathic dry eye, a condition challenging to diagnose and treat.Key Highlights:Understanding neuropathic ocular pain: When symptoms outweigh signs.Insights into diagnostic tools like in vivo confocal microscopy and the role of proparacaine testing.Practical approaches to differentiate peripheral and central neuropathic pain.Off-label treatments, including varenicline nasal spray and its potential in trigeminal nerve modulation.Strategies for co-managing patients with neurologists and pain specialists.Dr. Abbott shares actionable tips to help eye care professionals manage these complex cases, improve patient outcomes, and explore emerging therapies.Tune in to learn cutting-edge insights into managing neuropathic pain in practice! Subscribe to the OI Show for more expert-driven episodes, and don't forget to share this episode with colleagues passionate about advancing patient care.About Kaleb Abbott Is an optometrist and assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is faculty in both the Dry Eye Clinic and the Center for Ocular Inflammation where he specializes in complex ocular surface disease and participates in clinical trials/research pertaining to ocular surface disease. In addition to his clinical and research duties, he is on the board of directors for the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society; Vice Chair of the Nutrition, Disease Prevention, and Wellness SIG for AAO; on the advisory council for the Academic Medical Center Optometry AAO SIG; and on the editorial advisory board for Optometry360. He will be graduating from the AAO Flom Leadership Academy at AAO 2024. In 2024, he became host of the Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease section of the Clinical Podcast Series through the American Academy of Optometry Foundation. In 2019, Kaleb co-founded a start-up company called SunSnap Kids which took 1st place in the inaugural Bright Ideas Pitch Competition in 2022 and 3rd place in the Optometry Innovation Awards in 2023. Recently he sold the majority of this company to focus more on his clinical and research responsibilities at the University of Colorado. When not seeing patients, conducting research, or working on SunSnap Kids, Dr. Abbott lectures on ocular surface disease, writes articles, and is a medical reviewer for multiple medical journals including The Ocular Surface and Optometry and Vision Science. He resides in Denver, CO with his wife, daughter, and newborn twins. 

About  Dr. Julie Rodman Is the Chief of the Broward Eye Care Institute in Fort Lauderdale, FL and aProfessor of Optometry at Nova Southeastern University. She also is the Instructor of Recordfor Posterior Segment Disease at the College. Her research interests include OCT/OCTA andVitreoretinal Disease. Dr. Rodman has authored over thirty publications with an emphasis onretinal disease. She recently published “Optical Coherence Tomography Atlas: A Case StudyApproach”, the first reference book on this topic written by an optometrist. Dr. Rodman is amember of the AOA, AAO, FOA, and ORS. She has been the recipient of numerous teachingawards, was recognized as a Primary Care Optometry News “Top 300” Optometrists and“Newsweek Best Optometrists of 2023”.

About Kaleb Abbott Is an optometrist and assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. He is faculty in both the Dry Eye Clinic and the Center for Ocular Inflammation where he specializes in complex ocular surface disease and participates in clinical trials/research pertaining to ocular surface disease. In addition to his clinical and research duties, he is on the board of directors for the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society; Vice Chair of the Nutrition, Disease Prevention, and Wellness SIG for AAO; on the advisory council for the Academic Medical Center Optometry AAO SIG; and on the editorial advisory board for Optometry360. He will be graduating from the AAO Flom Leadership Academy at AAO 2024. In 2024, he became host of the Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Disease section of the Clinical Podcast Series through the American Academy of Optometry Foundation. In 2019, Kaleb co-founded a start-up company called SunSnap Kids which took 1st place in the inaugural Bright Ideas Pitch Competition in 2022 and 3rd place in the Optometry Innovation Awards in 2023. Recently he sold the majority of this company to focus more on his clinical and research responsibilities at the University of Colorado. When not seeing patients, conducting research, or working on SunSnap Kids, Dr. Abbott lectures on ocular surface disease, writes articles, and is a medical reviewer for multiple medical journals including The Ocular Surface and Optometry and Vision Science. He resides in Denver, CO with his wife, daughter, and newborn twins. 

About Mike CymborIs a dynamic and engaging speaker.  He lectures frequently on the topics of glaucoma and advanced diagnostic procedures.  He also speaks on diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, dry eye and ocular surface disease.  He has a growing interest in the intersection between health, diet and ocular disease.  Dr. Cymbor is a managing partner in one of the largest optometric practices in the country.  He directly oversees a million dollar-plus contact lens practice.  Dr. Cymbor and his wife, Autumn, have three grown children.  He loves being a husband and a father.  Recreationally, he bikes, hikes, swims, runs and generally prefers to be in motion.

About Dr. Lighthizer Born and raised in Bismarck, North Dakota, Dr. Nate Lighthizer, O.D., F.A.A.O., is a graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry.  Upon graduation, he completed a residency in Family Practice Optometry with an emphasis in Ocular Disease and Laser and Surgical Optometry through Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry (NSUOCO).  Dr. Lighthizer has since joined the faculty at the Oklahoma College of Optometry and has served as the Chief of Specialty Care Clinics and the Chief of Electrodiagnostics Clinic.   In 2014, he founded and now heads the Dry Eye Clinic at the College of Optometry.  Also in 2014, he was named the Director of Continuing Education as well as the Assistant Dean for Clinical Care Services at the Oklahoma College of Optometry.  Starting in 2020, he was named the Associate Dean of the NSU Oklahoma College of Optometry.  In July 2024, he was named the Dean of the Oklahoma College of Optometry.  He is a founding member, and currently serves as Immediate Past President, of the Intrepid Eye Society which is a group of emerging thought leaders in optometry.  He was named a member of PCON 250 – A list of the top 250 optometrists in the country who practice progressively, provide innovative patient care, conduct optometric research or excel in academia and share what they have learned with other optometrists to advance the profession.  Dr. Lighthizer lectures nationally and internationally on numerous topics, most notably advanced ophthalmic procedures, electrodiagnostics, and ocular disease.