Ryan Reflects with Dr. Ryan Corte | Optometry Podcast

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the introduction of Essilor's Stellest lenses, the first spectacle lens in the US proven to slow pediatric myopia progression. He explores the increasing prevalence of myopia, its risk factors, and the importance of proactive myopia management in optometry. Dr. Corte shares insights on how to effectively incorporate Stellest lenses into clinical practice, the science behind their design, and the benefits of myopia control. He emphasizes the need for patient education, proper billing practices, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and follow-up care for myopic patients.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Essilor's Stellest Lenses01:05 Understanding Myopia and Its Risks08:57 How Stellest Lenses Work11:21 The Importance of Myopia Management14:13 Implementing Myopia Control in Practice19:52 Patient Education and Consent Forms22:51 Best Practices for Myopia ManagementTakeawaysEssilor's Stellest lens is the first US spectacle lens proven to slow myopia progression.Myopia is increasingly recognized as a disease process rather than just a refractive error.The prevalence of myopia is rising, with significant implications for children's eye health.Proactive management and early detection of myopia are crucial for long-term outcomes.Screen time and lack of outdoor activity are significant risk factors for myopia in children.Stellest lenses offer a low-barrier treatment option for myopic children.Data shows Stellest lenses can slow myopia progression by 71%.Patient education is essential for successful myopia management.Implementing a structured myopia management protocol can enhance practice efficiency.The optometry profession has a unique opportunity to improve pediatric eye care through myopia management.

Ryan Corte, OD, reflects on the challenges and growth experienced throughout 2025, emphasizing the importance of reflection and learning. He shares insights from conversations with colleagues in the optometry field, highlighting the diverse paths within the profession and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. Looking ahead to 2026, Ryan expresses his commitment to providing valuable content and fostering community engagement among eye care professionals.Chapters00:00 Reflecting on 2025: A Year in Review02:49 The Evolution of Optometry: Insights and Innovations06:11 Navigating Challenges: Personal Journeys in Optometry08:53 Embracing Change: The Future of Eye Care12:07 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations for 2026TakeawaysReflecting on the past year is crucial for personal growth.Optometry offers diverse career paths and opportunities.Embracing challenges can lead to resilience and strength.Community engagement is vital for the future of optometry.The profession is evolving with advancements like AI.Authenticity in sharing experiences fosters connection.Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success.2026 presents opportunities for intentional growth.Feedback from the community shapes future content.The journey in optometry is unique for everyone.

In a conversation with Dr. Chris Wolfe, Dr. Ryan Corte shares his journey from being a student at Ohio State to becoming a successful practice owner in Asheville, North Carolina. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he faced while transitioning from a residency to private practice, including the rebranding of his practice and the use of AI in the process. The discussion also delves into the differences between corporate and private practices, the impact of private equity on community practices, and the importance of building a legacy in optometry. Dr. Corte emphasizes the value of sharing knowledge through his podcast, 'Ryan Reflects', and the need for collaboration within the optometry community.Chapters00:00 Journey Through Optometry: From Student to Practice Owner02:45 The Rebranding Experience: Intentionality and AI05:46 Corporate vs. Private Practice: Perspectives on Patient Care11:49 Navigating the LensCrafters Experience: Opportunities and Challenges17:56 The Value of Community: Private Equity and Practice Transition23:36 Building a Legacy: The Future of Optometry Practices29:38 Podcasting for Change: Sharing Knowledge in OptometryTakeawaysDr. Corte's journey from student to practice owner showcases growth and potential.Rebranding requires intentionality and can benefit from AI tools.Corporate practices can offer opportunities for high-level patient care.Private equity may not align with community-focused practice values.Building a legacy in optometry is crucial for community impact.Podcasting serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences.The importance of collaboration among optometrists is emphasized.Navigating the challenges of practice ownership requires strategic planning.AI can streamline processes in practice management and branding.Community service remains a core value in optometry.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses strategies for optometrists to effectively manage the busy year-end period. He emphasizes the importance of optimizing patient scheduling, communicating with the team and patients, fostering team morale, ensuring operational efficiency, and addressing compliance and financial planning. The goal is to not only survive the year-end rush but to thrive with energy and gratitude as they head into 2026.Chapters00:00 Preparing for Year-End Success05:14 Optimizing Patient Scheduling09:32 Team Coordination and Morale11:34 Compliance and Financial PreparednessTakeawaysBe intentional about finishing the year strong.Optimize patient scheduling to manage high demand.Communicate effectively with your team and patients.Foster team morale during the busy season.Prepare operationally for efficiency and effectiveness.Ensure compliance and financial planning are in place.Show gratitude and appreciation to your team.Utilize checklists for supplies and equipment.Schedule meetings with accountants for financial review.Thrive during the year-end rush, not just survive.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the comprehensive process of rebranding an optometry practice, emphasizing the importance of clarity, consistency, and connection. He shares his personal journey of rebranding from Northlake Eye to Reflect Vision Care, detailing the steps involved, including developing a brand identity, legal considerations, internal team alignment, and effective communication with patients. Dr. Corte highlights the significance of thorough preparation and the challenges that may arise during the rebranding process, ultimately encouraging practitioners to approach rebranding with intention and a focus on community impact.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Rebranding in Optometry03:05 Steps to Develop a Brand Identity05:49 Legal and Administrative Considerations08:55 Internal Communication and Team Alignment11:38 External Communication and Patient Engagement14:34 Final Thoughts on the Rebranding an Optometry PracticeTakeawaysRebranding is not just about a new name or logo.Clarity, consistency, and connection are key to branding.Developing a brand identity requires strategic planning.Legal compliance is crucial during the rebranding process.Internal communication is essential for team alignment.External communication should be clear and transparent for patients.A checklist can help manage the rebranding process effectively.Rebranding can take time and requires patience.Community engagement is important post-rebranding.Rebranding should be approached with intention and purpose.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the controversial topic of optometric residency, exploring its pros and cons based on his personal experience. He emphasizes the importance of residency in building clinical confidence, specializing in various areas of optometry, and enhancing career opportunities. However, he also addresses the financial sacrifices and potential delays in starting a full-time practice that come with pursuing a residency. Dr. Corte shares his journey through the residency application process, the challenges he faced, and the valuable experiences he gained during his training. He concludes by encouraging listeners to weigh their options carefully and consider their long-term career goals when deciding whether to pursue a residency.Chapters00:00 The Residency Debate in Optometry02:48 Pros of Optometric Residency06:02 Cons of Optometric Residency08:53 Personal Journey Through Residency12:08 The Transition to Residency Life14:56 Academic and Clinical Growth During Residency17:43 Final Thoughts on Residency DecisionTakeawaysResidency is debated in optometry for its value and necessity.It provides advanced clinical training and specialization opportunities.Financial sacrifices are a significant consideration for new graduates.Residency can delay the start of a full-time optometric career.Not all practice settings require a residency for success.Personal experiences during residency can shape future career paths.Networking and mentorship opportunities are enhanced through residency.Teaching and academic involvement can be part of the residency experience.Confidence in managing ocular diseases is significantly improved through residency.Decisions about residency should be based on individual career goals and circumstances.

Dr. Joshua Davidson shares his journey through the world of optometry, discussing the challenges and failures he faced in product development, his experiences in optometry school, and the unique patient care environment in Louisiana. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and the entrepreneurial spirit in advancing the field of optometry. Davidson also reflects on the balance between professional aspirations and family life, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions while recognizing their limitations.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Joshua Davidson11:14 Journey into Optometry and Early Experiences17:25 Specialty Contact Lenses and Ocular Surface Disease21:28 Developing an Externship Program at Williamson Eye Center24:14 Finding Your Niche in Optometry29:50 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Optometry37:02 Innovations in Eye Care Products45:42 Future Aspirations and Work-Life Balance47:49 The Importance of Collaboration in OptometryTakeawaysDr. Davidson faced numerous challenges in product development, including failures in launching necktie companies.He emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and not being afraid to take risks.Optometry has provided him with a fulfilling career, allowing him to help patients and make a difference.The experience at MCO was positive, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment among students.Transitioning to Louisiana presented unique challenges, including cultural differences in patient communication.The licensing process in Louisiana is manageable with a solid foundation in optometry.Specialty contact lenses and dry eye care are growing fields that offer significant opportunities for optometrists.Building an externship program at Williamson Eye Center has been rewarding, providing students with hands-on experience.Davidson's entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of innovative products for dry eye care.He stresses the importance of collaboration and surrounding oneself with smarter individuals to succeed.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Carly Rose, an optometrist known for her impactful presence on social media and her journey through the optometry profession. They discuss Dr. Rose's path into optometry, her experiences during residency, and her transition into business ownership with a focus on dry eye treatment. The conversation delves into the challenges of burnout, the importance of mindfulness, and the need for balance in a busy professional life. Dr. Rose shares her insights on embracing fear, taking action, and the future of holistic health in optometry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Carly Rose's Journey05:14 The Path to Optometry: A Personal Story09:26 Choosing ICO and the Residency Experience15:44 Transitioning to Private Practice Ownership21:21 Navigating Burnout and Personal Health24:14 The Radium Girls and Burnout Awareness26:40 Listening to Your Body's Signals29:16 The Journey to Homeostasis31:14 Finding Silence Amidst Noise33:42 Overcoming Fear in Business Ownership35:30 Navigating Emotional Energy and Burnout37:30 Holistic Health in Optometry40:09 The Unpredictability of Career Paths42:32 Regulating Emotions for Effective Decision MakingTakeawaysDr. Carly Rose emphasizes the importance of social media for optometrists.She initially did not plan on pursuing higher education.Her journey into optometry was influenced by her sister's career.Residency experience was pivotal in shaping her career.She faced challenges in business ownership, particularly in dry eye treatment.Burnout is a significant issue in the optometry profession.Mindfulness and self-care are crucial for maintaining balance.Fear should be acknowledged but not allowed to hinder progress.Holistic health is becoming increasingly relevant in optometry.Finding joy in one's career is essential for long-term satisfaction.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the common misconceptions surrounding contact lens wear for patients with astigmatism. He shares personal experiences with patients who were previously told they were not candidates for contact lenses and emphasizes the importance of proper fitting and the advancements in contact lens technology. Dr. Corte provides practical tips for eye care professionals to enhance patient satisfaction and encourages them to actively offer toric lenses to patients who may benefit from them.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Toric Contact Lens Challenges02:48 Understanding Astigmatism and Patient Misconceptions06:06 Opportunities in Fitting Contact Lenses for Astigmatism09:04 Clinical Pearls for Successful Toric Lens Fitting11:57 Advancements in Astigmatism Contact Lens Technology14:46 Call to Action for OptometristsTakeawaysMany patients are misinformed about their candidacy for contact lenses.Astigmatism should not be a barrier to contact lens wear.Proper fitting techniques can significantly improve patient satisfaction.Toric lenses are often underutilized in practice.Understanding lens parameters is crucial for successful fittings.Advancements in contact lens technology are expanding options for patients.Patient education is key to overcoming misconceptions.Eye care professionals should actively promote toric lenses.Daily disposable options are beneficial for patients with astigmatism.Building patient loyalty can lead to increased referrals.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Angelica Cifuentes, an optometrist from Miami, Florida. They discuss Dr. Cifuentes' journey into optometry, her experiences in optometry school, and her growth on social media as 'Tiny Optometrist.' The conversation highlights the importance of diverse pathways in the profession, the value of hands-on experience, and the significance of advocacy and community involvement. Dr. Cifuentes shares her entrepreneurial venture in dry eye care and emphasizes the importance of authenticity and believing in oneself.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angelica Cifuentes02:19 Journey to Optometry: Early Influences and Discoveries06:28 The Diversity of Optometry: Exploring Career Paths11:47 Education at Nova: Pursuing a Dream School17:36 Building a Social Media Presence: The Tiny Optometrist20:23 Overcoming Challenges: The Non-Traditional Path to Optometry22:55 Journey to Optometry: A Unique Path24:55 Navigating Residency Decisions27:43 Transitioning into the Real World of Optometry30:02 Private Practice vs. Commercial Optometry33:01 Entrepreneurial Spirit: Launching a Dry Eye Business36:12 Balancing Personal Life and Professional Growth37:24 Advocacy and Community Engagement in Optometry40:18 Authenticity in Social Media and Professional Life43:52 Embracing Uncertainty: Future AspirationsTakeawaysDr. Cifuentes' journey into optometry was influenced by her brother's eye issue.She discovered her passion for optometry while shadowing a mentor.Hands-on experience in the optical field helped her excel in optometry school.Social media became an outlet for her during the stress of school.Being a non-traditional student shaped her perspective on education and career.She values flexibility in her work environment as an optometrist.Advocacy for the profession is a key part of her identity.Her entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of a dry eye e-commerce business.Community involvement is essential for promoting optometry to younger generations.Authenticity and sharing personal stories resonate with her audience.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the fitting and prescribing of multifocal contact lenses, focusing on strategies to serve presbyopic patients effectively. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient base, utilizing fitting guides, and making necessary adjustments to ensure patient satisfaction and drive referrals. The conversation highlights the significance of daily multifocal lenses and the need for optometrists to be confident in their fitting techniques.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Multifocal Contact Lenses02:59 Understanding the Presbyopic Patient Demographic06:16 Mindset Shift for Successful Multifocal Fitting12:56 Practical Multifocal Fitting Techniques and Adjustments16:14 Driving Patient Multifocal Satisfaction and ReferralsTakeawaysMultifocal contact lenses are essential for presbyopic patients.Understanding the patient base is crucial for effective fitting.Daily disposable multifocal lenses offer the best comfort and health.Following the manufacturer's fitting guide is key to success.Patient education on realistic expectations is important.Adjustments may be necessary for optimal vision.Encouraging patient feedback helps refine fitting techniques.Good lighting and display settings enhance vision with multifocals.Building confidence in fitting multifocals can drive referrals.Satisfaction in fitting leads to better patient retention.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of daily disposable contact lenses in optometry. He explores the benefits of these lenses, including health, convenience, and comfort, while addressing common patient concerns and compliance issues. Dr. Corte emphasizes the need for optometrists to transition patients to daily disposables and highlights the importance of innovation in contact lens technology to enhance patient care and satisfaction.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Daily Disposable Contact Lenses03:02 The Benefits of Daily Disposable Contact Lenses08:06 Drawbacks of 2 Week and Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses09:33 Getting Patients Into Daily Disposable Contact Lenses14:08 The Importance of Innovation in Contact LensesTakeawaysDaily disposable lenses are the healthiest and safest option for patients.Convenience is a major selling point for daily disposables.Fresh lenses every day enhance comfort and reduce complications.Patient compliance is crucial for successful contact lens wear.Transitioning patients to daily disposables can increase practice revenue.Addressing patient concerns about lens wear is essential.Daily disposables are ideal for part-time wearers and those with allergies.Educating patients on the benefits of daily disposables is key.Innovative contact lens options can improve patient satisfaction.Practices must prioritize fitting and prescribing daily disposables.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Gloria Chiu, an experienced optometrist in a hospital-based setting. They discuss Dr. Chiu's journey into optometry, her passion for specialty contact lenses, and the importance of networking and mentorship in building a successful career. Dr. Chiu shares insights on demonstrating value in the profession, advocating for dry eye awareness, and her aspirations for the future. The conversation emphasizes the significance of persistence, learning from failures, and the impact of community involvement in shaping a fulfilling career in optometry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gloria Chiu04:05 Journey into Optometry: Early Inspirations06:54 Education and Research: The Path to Residency10:02 Overcoming Rejection: The Power of Persistence12:50 Specialty Contact Lenses: A Passion Unfolds15:28 Building a Career: From Residency to First Job19:40 Establishing a New Clinic: Challenges and Triumphs23:37 Demonstrating Value: Billing and Patient Care27:36 Advocacy and Community Engagement31:10 Future Aspirations: Goals and ReflectionsTakeawaysDr. Gloria Chiu has been in her position for 16 years, showcasing career stability.Her journey into optometry began in high school due to her own vision issues.Networking and mentorship played a crucial role in her career advancement.She emphasizes the importance of understanding billing and coding in optometry.Dr. Chiu advocates for dry eye awareness and research funding.She believes in the value of persistence and learning from failures.Her experience highlights the importance of patient care and building relationships.Dr. Chiu encourages new graduates to track their contributions and value.She aims to become a professor of ophthalmology in the next five years.Advocacy and community involvement are key components of her professional life.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of contact lens evaluation fees and how to effectively communicate their value to patients. He emphasizes the necessity of annual evaluations for contact lens wearers, the benefits of contact lenses, and the importance of educating patients about eye health. Dr. Corte also shares strategies for addressing patient concerns regarding fees and the significance of being transparent and empathetic in communication.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Contact Lens Evaluations03:57 Understanding Contact Lens Fitting Fees07:00 Patient Education and Communication Strategies09:45 Addressing Patient Concerns with Empathy12:25 Optimizing Patient Experience and CareTakeawaysContact lens evaluations are essential for safe and healthy wear.Patients often misunderstand the necessity of fitting fees.Annual evaluations help prevent serious eye health issues.Technological advancements in contact lenses improve patient experience.Empathy is key when addressing patient concerns about fees.Transparent communication about fees enhances patient trust.Stable prescriptions are a positive sign for eye health.Educating patients on new contact lens options is crucial.Fitting contact lenses requires additional expertise and time.Practitioners should always prioritize patient education and care.

In part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Adam Ramsey, he shares his journey through the challenges of starting his career in optometry, the struggles of practice ownership, and the importance of creating a unique patient experience. He reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, emphasizing the need for resilience and transparency in both personal and professional life. Dr. Ramsey also discusses the significance of mentorship and the value of sharing one's story to inspire others.Get Dr. Adam Ramsey's Book, ⁠Play Chess, Not Checkers⁠Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Adam Ramsey00:52 Early Career Challenges and Opportunities13:09 Creating a High-Quality Patient Experience18:16 The Journey of Writing a Book and Starting a Podcast22:08 Lessons Learned from Challenges and PerseveranceTakeawaysDr. Ramsey faced significant challenges early in his career, including job loss and financial struggles.He emphasizes the importance of resilience and hard work in overcoming obstacles.Creating a unique patient experience is a priority for Dr. Ramsey, influenced by his own high standards.He believes in investing in staff experiences to elevate patient care.Dr. Ramsey's journey highlights the unpredictability of career paths in optometry.He stresses the importance of mentorship and learning from others' experiences.Transparency in sharing struggles can help others feel less alone in their challenges.Dr. Ramsey's book aims to guide new optometrists in opening their practices.He acknowledges the need for patience and understanding in the growth process.Dr. Ramsey advocates for authenticity in social media to combat unrealistic comparisons.

In part 1 of our conversation, Dr. Adam Ramsey shares his journey from Trinidad to becoming a successful optometrist. He discusses the importance of work ethic, representation in the profession, and the challenges faced by new graduates. Dr. Ramsey also highlights the creation of Black Eye Care Perspective, a platform aimed at increasing diversity in optometry and supporting future optometrists. Throughout the discussion, he reflects on personal growth, the significance of mentorship, and the need to expose students to the optometry profession early.Get Dr. Adam Ramsey's Book, Play Chess, Not CheckersChapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Adam Ramsey03:44 Journey to Optometry: Discovering Passion and Purpose06:36 Reflections on Personal Growth and Responsibility09:49 Health, Wellness, and Work-Life Balance12:48 The Path to Optometry School: A Journey of Self-Discovery15:49 Navigating Optometry School: Challenges and Experiences18:46 The Importance of Work Ethic in Optometry21:48 The Changing Landscape of Optometry Employment24:42 Choosing Optometry School: A Personal Decision27:45 Diversity in Optometry: Experiences and Initiatives34:11 Understanding the Needs of African-American Patients35:13 Increasing Representation in Optometry38:14 Celebrating Success in Mentorship and Education40:36 Navigating Challenges in Funding and SupportTakeawaysDr. Adam Ramsey shares his journey from Trinidad to becoming an optometrist.The importance of loving the grind and hustle in the optometry business.Navigating the challenges of being an only child and a single-parent household.The significance of work ethic in shaping the future of optometry graduates.Dr. Ramsey's experience as the only black male in his optometry school.The need for representation in the optometry profession.Building a supportive community through Black Eye Care Perspective.The impact of COVID-19 on diversity initiatives in optometry.The importance of exposing students to the optometry profession early.Reflections on personal growth and the journey of helping others succeed.

Dr. Ryan Corte shares his personal journey through optometry school at Ohio State University. He discusses the decision-making process for choosing a school, the importance of living arrangements, the pressures of academic life, and the value of getting involved in extracurricular activities. Dr. Corte emphasizes the significance of mental health support, collaboration with peers, and leadership opportunities that shaped his experience. He reflects on the challenges and growth he experienced throughout his time in optometry school, culminating in his clinical rotations and preparation for a professional career.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Optometry Journey01:46 Choosing Ohio State University College of Optometry04:58 Living Arrangements and Campus Life06:47 Navigating Academic Pressure and Relationships10:19 Getting Involved and Leadership Opportunities14:03 Mental Health and Academic Challenges17:43 Leadership Growth and Professional Development20:52 Fourth Year Experiences and Clinical Rotations23:01 Reflections on the Optometry School JourneyTakeawaysThe journey from optometry school to clinical practice is significant.Choosing the right optometry school can impact your career and finances.Living arrangements can affect your academic success and social life.Getting involved in clubs and leadership roles enhances the educational experience.Balancing academic pressure with personal life is crucial for success.Mental health support is essential during the rigorous demands of optometry school.Building relationships with classmates can provide necessary support.Leadership opportunities can shape your professional identity and growth.Clinical rotations are vital for real-world experience and skill development.Reflecting on your journey can help others in their optometry path.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the significance of attending in-person optometry meetings despite the convenience of online continuing education. He shares four key reasons for attending these meetings: the value of genuine networking, the benefits of hands-on learning, the potential for practice growth, and the opportunity to recharge and reconnect with one's passion for the profession. Dr. Corte emphasizes that in-person interactions foster deeper connections and provide unique learning experiences that cannot be replicated online.Chapters00:00 The Importance of In-Person Meetings05:47 Hands-On Learning Experiences08:11 Practice Growth Through Collaboration11:53 Recharging and Renewing Passion for OptometryTakeawaysIn-person meetings foster genuine human interaction and networking.Hands-on learning experiences are crucial for skill development.Attending meetings can lead to significant practice growth.Networking in person can lead to impactful conversations and ideas.In-person interactions help build lasting professional relationships.The limitations of online education highlight the need for in-person experiences.Recharging at conferences can reignite passion for the profession.Real growth in optometry requires consistent engagement in learning.Meeting with industry representatives in person enhances understanding.Social interactions at conferences can lead to valuable insights.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Anith Pillai, who shares his journey from engineering to becoming a successful optometrist and practice owner. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the challenges of starting a private practice, and the rewarding experiences of patient interactions, particularly in specialty eye care. Dr. Pillai emphasizes the need for passion in the profession and the importance of supporting the optometric community.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Anith Pillai03:17 Journey to Optometry: From Engineering to Eye Care08:26 Discovering Passion: The Love for Patient Interaction12:10 Mentorship and Professional Growth in Optometry15:29 Early Career Experiences and the Path to Private Practice20:41 Navigating Challenges: COVID-19 and Business Growth22:25 Specialization in Optometry: Finding Your Niche26:50 The Journey to Specialization32:43 Challenges of Starting a Private Practice39:20 Transformative Patient Interactions45:03 Future Aspirations and Mentorship47:48 Final Thoughts and Community SupportTakeawaysDr. Pillai emphasizes the importance of juggling personal and professional life, especially with a newborn.His journey to optometry was influenced by a passion for patient interaction rather than just numbers and engineering.Mentorship played a crucial role in shaping his career and perspective on supporting the profession.Building a multi-location specialty practice requires dedication and a clear vision.The early years of private practice were challenging, with financial struggles and uncertainty.Dr. Pillai highlights the significance of impactful patient interactions, especially with children in ortho-K.He encourages optometrists to reach out for mentorship and support within the community.The journey to success in private practice can take time, and it's important to be patient and persistent.Dr. Pillai advocates for supporting optometric associations to protect the profession's privileges.He expresses a desire to educate others about specialty eye care and to remain accessible to colleagues.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Fallon Patel, an optometrist with a thriving multi-location practice in Canada. Dr. Patel shares her journey from being an immigrant child to becoming a successful optometrist, discussing her educational background, early career challenges, and the transition from Sears Optical to Lenscrafters. She emphasizes the importance of leadership, team development, and innovative practices in myopia management. Dr. Patel also highlights the need for better business education in optometry schools and her commitment to giving back to the profession.Books referencedWho Not How10x Is Easier than 2xChapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Fallon Patel02:32 Dr. Patel's Background and Heritage07:56 Pathway to Optometry: Influences and Decisions10:59 Experience at Waterloo and Early Career14:31 Differences in Training: Canada vs. U.S.18:55 Transitioning to Practice: Early Challenges21:26 Overcoming Setbacks: The Sears Closure Experience23:28 Transitioning from Sears to Lenscrafters26:46 The Value of Being Part of a Bigger Network29:03 Learning and Growing Through Challenges31:51 Hiring the Right People for Growth34:08 Leveraging Technology for Business Success40:41 Championing Myopia Management44:52 Leadership and Giving Back to the CommunityTakeawaysDr. Fallon Patel's journey reflects resilience and determination.The importance of family support in overcoming challenges.Optometry education should include business acumen training.Leadership is about empowering the right people in your team.Myopia management requires a variety of treatment options.Transitioning from corporate to private practice can be challenging.Building a multi-location practice involves continuous learning.Networking and mentorship are crucial for professional growth.AI and technology can enhance practice management and patient care.Sharing knowledge within the optometry community is essential for growth.