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In this engaging interview, Dr. Christopher Wolfe discusses with Dr. David Kading the importance of authenticity, human connection, and innovative practices in optometry. They explore how virtual teams, AI, and practice management can enhance patient care while maintaining genuine relationships.
00:00 Introduction and Equipment Discussion
01:21 Insights from 'The Invisible Team' Book
02:20 The Human Side of Practice Success
05:30 Authenticity and Generational Change
08:20 The Future of Personal Connection in Healthcare
12:20 Utilizing Virtual Teams Effectively
20:16 Improving Practice Operations with Data
33:10 Balancing Technology and Human Touch
44:20 Patients’ Desire for Connection
50:43 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
The Invisible Team by Dr. David Kading - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4XYZ123
Optometric Insights - https://www.optometricinsights.com
Tim Ferriss - The 4-Hour Workweek - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QJDZ3I4
Guest links
Website - https://www.optometricinsights.com
Twitter - https://twitter.com/DaveKading
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Aaron Werner welcomes Dr. Ben Thayil for a thoughtful conversation on refraction, identity, leadership, and the evolving role of the modern optometrist. Together they explore whether too much weight is placed on refraction, how doctors can unintentionally tie their identity to one task in the exam lane, and why the real value of care goes far beyond a prescription. From patient problem-solving and practice systems to change management and internal confidence, this episode looks at what truly defines an optometrist and the lasting impact doctors have on patients’ lives.
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Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
In this episode, Dr. Christopher Wolfe discusses the Vision Source D25 program with Mick Kling, exploring its origins, benefits, and how it fosters community and value among independent optometrists. Discover how the program reinvests in practices and strengthens the independent optometry community.
Chapters
00:00 Weather Talk and Introduction
01:11 Unpacking the D25 Program
02:04 The Origin Story of Vision Source
05:10 The Value of Community in Vision Source
09:30 Understanding the D25 Program
11:06 Member Dividends Explained
17:42 The Mechanics of D25 Participation
28:49 Future Opportunities and Closing Thoughts
resources
Vision Source Official Website - https://visionsource.com
Insight Member Platform - https://visionsource.com/insight
Mick Kling on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickkling/
Amir Kashnevis on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amirkashnevis/
guest links
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickkling/
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
"Aaron sits down with Dr. Kyle Klute to talk about what it really takes to build a stronger practice. They discuss why being busy is not the same as being effective, how better systems lead to better patient care, and why lasting growth comes from intentional mindset, clear metrics, and step-by-step implementation rather than quick fixes. It is a practical conversation about building pillars like myopia management, dry eye, and glaucoma care in a way that actually works.
Links referenced in the discussion:
Kyle's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyledkluteod/
Practice Performance Partners - Comprehensive Optometry Simplified: https://www.eyecodeeducation.com/bundles/comprehensive-optometry-simplified
""Optometry Simplified"" Kyle's biweekly newsletter: https://optometrysimplified.com/"
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Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
In this episode, we take an honest look at one of the habits many of us developed long
before we ever became leaders; the instinct to give advice. For years I believed that
being helpful meant having the answer. But what I’ve learned is that constantly giving
advice may solve a momentary problem while quietly creating long-term dependence.
Coaching, on the other hand, invites people to think, to grow, and to take ownership of
their own solutions. If you’ve ever felt exhausted from being the person everyone comes
to for answers or frustrated that the same problems keep showing up in your practice,
this conversation will challenge the way you lead and offer a different path forward.
If you want the 10 transformational questions that anchor whole-person coaching,
download the Vision of Leadership Whole-Person Coaching Whitepaper. You can get
your copy at: https://www.eyecodeeducation.com/products/digital_downloads/TVoLCoaching
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Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/docs-land-nearly-400-million-first-year-controversial-2026a10006e8
https://www.eyecodeeducation.com/courses/appropriate-use-of-g2211-in-optometry
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?eventid=4970954&groupId=6158316&key=6D958B67035A8B4047B2FBD06AE4F38A&sessionid=1&sourcepage=register?partnerref=website&target=reg20.jsp
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Dr. Katie Chu shares her journey from 30 years serving an immigrant community in the San Gabriel Valley to rediscovering purpose after COVID, divorce, and isolation. She breaks down how she “cleared the noise” through therapy tools, healthier friendships, and firmer boundaries—and how one bold decision created a ripple effect into a breakout year of creativity. Katie also unpacks the heart behind Chewie’s Bold Move, the music and lullabies tied to her books, and her big vision for a future “living masterclass” leadership retreat at sea.
Connect with Katie, get the books and hear the music:
https://chuonwhatmatters.com/
Instagram: @katiewchu
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiechuod/
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Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/basketball-in-the-last-60-seconds-ben-sasse-on/id1378389941?i=1000750173300
Aaron Werner, Brianna Rhue, and first-time Book Nerds guest Dr. Ben Thayil unpack Seth Godin’s Tribes through the lens of real-world practice leadership. They explore what separates leaders from managers, why tribes thrive on member-to-member communication, and how fear is often less about failure and more about blame. The conversation digs into innovation timing (and the penalty for being late), practical ways to evaluate risk, and how to empower teams through delegation, alignment, and freedom to make mistakes—plus tactical takeaways like daily KPI texts, the “rope theory,” and a simple question to spark ownership: What change do you want to lead, and why?
Join BookNerds WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Kg7fQNNyEQq2HWUEwOX9GP?mode=gi_t
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Aaron sits down with optometry leader, author, and podcast host Dr. Dave Kading to unpack The Invisible Team—a practical playbook for reducing burnout and building a sustainable practice through virtual support. They dig into the real pressure points hitting private healthcare (staffing shortages, missed calls, admin overload), how to lead your in-office team through change without fear, and why “going all in” with a virtual mindset is the difference between success and frustration. If your practice feels held together by duct tape and good vibes, this conversation is your roadmap to getting help, protecting culture, and getting home sooner.
Get the book: https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Team-Unseen-Transforming-Patient/dp/B0G882YHVZ
Optometric Insights Media: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optometric-insights-media/id1556159460
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Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
----------------------
For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Aaron sits down with Dr. Chandler Mann—homebound during a Texas freeze—to unpack how Chandler cold-started a Vision Source practice in December 2022 and scaled from ~$1M to $2M by year three. They dig into what actually drove the growth: community-first “active” marketing, hiring ahead of the curve, smart space constraints (and a buildout timed to paternity leave), expanding to six days with a part-time associate, and delegating dry eye treatments through a well-trained team. Along the way, they bust the “specialist” myth (myopia ≈5% of clinic time, dry eye ≈15%) and land on Chandler’s real advantage: humble curiosity, intentional leadership, and an office culture built around impact.
Key Resrouces Discussed:
iCare Advisors (https://icareadvisors.com/)
Vision Source (https://visionsource.com/)
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Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
https://substack.com/@alexberenson
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table!
questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/myopia-management
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
"Aaron sits down with pro soccer forward and author Christina Birkenroad to unpack the real journey behind the goals—from Mission Bay High School and Cal State Fullerton to the NWSL, Europe, and eventually becoming a key player for Rayadas de Monterrey and the Mexican national team. Christina shares what actually separates good from great: habits, resilience, mental toughness, and learning to handle the highs and lows of a public, cutthroat career. They dive into her book The Footballer’s Handbook and why it’s more than a soccer guide—it’s a blueprint for anyone chasing excellence, navigating burnout, and building a “champion mindset” in life and work
Get the Book: The Footballer's Handbook: A Player’s Journey: Lessons, Mindset, and Winning Moments (https://a.co/d/f43Bs9L)
Connect with Christina:
Instagram: @cburkyy
Cburkenroad19@gmail.com"
In this episode, Chris responds to a listener’s thoughtful question: “Do we really need to check blood pressure on every adult patient?”
What starts as a question about workflow becomes a much bigger conversation about how optometrists spend their time, what really changes patient outcomes, and how to break the habit of checking boxes just for compliance.
We unpack:
The clinical and administrative context behind routine BP checks
Why MIPS might not apply to your practice—and what that means
The opportunity cost of low-yield testing
How to rethink what “comprehensive” really means in your exam
The case for reclaiming time to do more of what matters
Bottom line: If it doesn’t change how you care for the patient, maybe it doesn’t belong in the exam.
📌 Want to explore ways to optimize your workflow and focus on high-value care?
Visit pppnow.com to learn how Practice Performance Partners can help elevate your practice.
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table!
questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/myopia-management
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
"Aaron kicks off 2026 with practice manager and Working Genius coach Sophie Thune to unpack what changed in the second half of 2025—when capture rates dipped and the “cracks” in systems and leadership became impossible to ignore. Together they break down Werner Optometry’s leadership team Working Genius map (Wonder → Tenacity), what’s missing (hello, Galvanizing), and how each genius is fueled—or crushed—by specific leadership behaviors. A practical, vulnerable conversation on communication, accountability, team dynamics, and rebuilding stronger for the year ahead.
Learn more and contact Sophie:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-thune
Email: sophie@goodlifeeyecare.com
EyeCodeEducation's ""Practice Culture Builder"" course (https://www.eyecodeeducation.com/courses/PracticeCultureBuilder)"




The snippet in the beginning of the show is way too long, usually 2-3 minutes. No one needs to hear that much of the show twice. Needs to be shortened to 3-5 seconds if he’s going to keep the preview snippets. Also, the outro music is too loud over the speakers, starts too early and is too long at the end. When streaming my pods I don’t want to listen to the outro elevator beats for another 2-3 minutes, I want to switch over to the next one pretty quickly. It’s like someone told them pods had to be a certain length and they just fill the time they are short like a kid triple spacing a homework assignment to make it a full page. Content is good though.