Cleinman Connect Podcast

Al Cleinman is the Founder of Cleinman Performance Partners, a leading consulting firm that has served as optometry's trusted business advisor for over 35 years, specializing in practice transitions, growth strategies, and innovative solutions for eye care professionals. Under Al’s leadership, the firm has helped hundreds of optometry practices navigate complex transactions and succession plans, resulting in significant increases in business value and successful ownership transitions.Megan McCarthy, Senior Director of Practice Transitions at Cleinman Performance Partners, leads a team that delivers custom consulting, financial analysis, and practice valuation services, guiding clients through every stage of the transitions journey.In this episode…Navigating the end of an optometry career can feel as complex as building it. For many practice owners, years of patient care and business growth come down to one defining moment: how to transition out successfully. What does it really take to plan an exit that preserves value, protects your legacy, and supports the kind of life you want next?According to Al Cleinman, a strategist and leader in the optometry business space, the key is clarity — knowing what you truly want out of life and your practice long before you’re ready to leave. Megan McCarthy also highlights that early planning, ideally 3-5 years in advance, allows doctors to make smart financial and operational decisions that elevate the practice’s value. Together, they explain how foresight, documentation, and professional guidance turn what could be a stressful process into a rewarding next chapter for both the seller and successor.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Al Cleinman and Megan McCarthy of Cleinman Performance Partners to discuss how optometrists can prepare for successful transitions. They share why early exit planning matters, how to differentiate between a succession plan and a sale, and what pitfalls to avoid in the process. They also give advice on building long-term value through intentional goal setting and preparation.

Kimberly Friedman, OD FAAO, is an optometric physician and serves as Vice President of Education and Scientific Affairs at PRN Vision Group, a company that provides evidence-based omega-based nutraceuticals and ocular health products to support eye care professionals and patients worldwide. Under her medical education leadership, PRN Vision Group and its brands (including EyePromise) hold the top-selling dry eye nutraceutical product in the US, are distributed in over 20 countries, and have achieved rapid sales growth through high-quality education. Dr. Friedman is also a Founding Partner of Moorestown Eye Associates, a recognized media consultant, and one of the nation’s few optometrists with a recurring segment on major market television.In this episode…In today’s healthcare world, patients are more informed than ever. However, that doesn’t always mean they truly understand their treatment options. How can doctors simplify complex science into clear, trustworthy advice that motivates patients to follow through on care plans instead of feeling “sold to”?According to Dr. Kimberly Friedman, a seasoned optometrist and medical education expert, it all starts with communication rooted in trust and clarity. She explains that the same skills doctors use daily in the exam room — distilling medical science into relatable language — are the foundation of effective patient education. Dr. Friedman highlights that using analogies, prescribing with confidence, and taking a stepwise approach to recommendations all build stronger compliance. By focusing on understanding rather than sales, practitioners can elevate patient outcomes while strengthening long-term relationships built on credibility.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Dr. Kimberly Friedman, Vice President of Education and Scientific Affairs at PRN Vision Group, to discuss how to educate patients on treatment plans without overwhelming them. They talk about using analogies to simplify complex science, fostering trust through confident recommendations, and evolving with new research in ocular nutrition. Dr. Friedman also shares advice on balancing clinical integrity with practice growth.

Andrew Davis is a Commercial Placement Broker and Account Manager at Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Alberta, a boutique insurance brokerage specializing in customized insurance solutions for commercial clients across Canada. He brings extensive experience in policy placement, risk management, and client service, with a growing focus on supporting optometry practices. Andrew helps business owners navigate complex insurance requirements, identify coverage gaps, and find cost-effective solutions. He focuses on making insurance clear and manageable so optometrists can concentrate on patient care and growing the practice.In this episode…Running a successful optometry practice means balancing patient care with all the realities of business ownership. But when it comes to protecting your livelihood, many practice owners don’t fully understand what’s covered (or not covered) by their insurance policies. From specialized equipment to business interruptions, what should optometrists really look for when insuring their practices?According to Andrew Davis, a commercial insurance expert with extensive experience supporting healthcare professionals, the key is understanding how coverage actually works before disaster strikes. He highlights the importance of replacement cost over cash value policies, ensuring that damaged or stolen equipment can be replaced in full rather than at a depreciated rate. Andrew also explains how business interruption coverage can sustain income during closures and why comprehensive packages — including general liability, property, and cyber insurance — are essential.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Andrew Davis, Commercial Placement Broker and Account Manager at Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Alberta, to discuss how optometrists can protect their practices with the appropriate insurance. They explore the differences between replacement cost and cash value, the role of business interruption coverage, and why cyber insurance is becoming increasingly critical.

Kate Virzi is the Director of Sales & Client Success at Marketing4ECPs, a digital marketing agency that helps eye care professionals grow their practices. With over 15 years of experience in sales, advertising, and client strategy, Kate has extensive expertise in helping businesses grow. She leads initiatives focused on driving patient acquisition, strengthening brands, and increasing revenue across North America. Dedicated to building long-term, value-driven relationships, she works closely with clients to create strategies that deliver measurable results.In this episode…Marketing in optometry is evolving faster than ever, from traditional ads to digital platforms that meet patients where they are. With so many channels available, how can eye care practices know where to focus their time and budget for the best results?According to Kate Virzi, a seasoned marketing leader with over 15 years of experience, the key is understanding that marketing is both a science and a story. She highlights the importance of creating authentic connections through digital tools like email and video while maintaining a consistent, trust-building online presence. Kate also stresses that success comes from patience, data-driven decisions, and aligning marketing with long-term business goals.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kevin Wilhelm and Kim Carson sit down with Kate Virzi, Director of Sales & Client Success at Marketing4ECPs, to discuss digital, traditional, and best practices for marketing in optometry. They explore how to optimize websites for conversion, where to invest marketing budgets, and why consistency between in-person and online experiences builds trust. Kate also shares how content, SEO, and social media can work together to attract and retain patients.

Dennis Evans Jr. is the Director of Professional Relations at DryEye Rescue, a company that helps eye care providers expand their dry eye services and supply doctor-recommended products. He leads provider development and practice implementation initiatives to support doctors in boosting patient compliance and revenue. Under his guidance, DryEye Rescue offers turnkey solutions like kiosk displays, product referral systems, and drop-shipping to simplify in-office sales. Dennis also works on partnerships and marketing programs to funnel patients into local providers.In this episode…Dry eye disease is one of the most common yet misunderstood challenges in optometry. Patients often turn to at-home remedies without realizing the connection between those simple treatments and more advanced in-office procedures. How can practices turn everyday product use into a gateway for stronger patient relationships and sustainable growth?According to Dennis Evans Jr., a leader in scaling innovative eye care solutions, at-home treatments do more than relieve symptoms — they create awareness and trust that leads patients back for higher-level procedures. He highlights how kiosks, affiliate programs, and easy access to over-the-counter products shift the conversation, allowing patients to bring up dry eye concerns before doctors do. This model transforms cold calls and patient skepticism into demand for advanced services.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Dennis Evans Jr., Director of Professional Relations at DryEye Rescue, to discuss how at-home treatments drive in-office growth in optometry. They explore why awareness starts outside the exam room, how flexible programs help practices scale, and what makes the dental care model a blueprint for optometry. Dennis also shares lessons from DryEye Rescue’s rapid nationwide growth.

Kevin Wilhelm is the CEO of Cleinman Performance Partners, a consulting firm that helps optometry practices grow their business operations and drive performance. He also co-founded POD Marketing, which acquired Cleinman in 2025. In his role, he sets the firm’s strategic vision and oversees all consulting, HR, and practice transition services to help independent optometry practices grow. He is an Amazon best-selling author of Click: Transform Your Business Through Digital Marketing. Additionally, Kevin frequently speaks on entrepreneurship and the power of combining marketing strategy with strong business systems.In this episode…Running a successful optometry practice takes more than attracting new patients. It requires building strong teams, creating effective systems, and overcoming daily business challenges. How can practice owners step beyond marketing to grow thriving, resilient organizations?According to Kevin Wilhelm, a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing expert, true growth begins when owners focus on people and processes. He highlights that patient flow is rarely the biggest hurdle — recruiting, training, and retaining talented staff is. By investing in culture and peer learning, practices can overcome common obstacles and scale sustainably. Kevin explains how his own experience in marketing and leadership inspired him to help optometrists strengthen their operations and develop effective teams that drive long-term success.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kevin Wilhelm, CEO of Cleinman Performance Partners, is interviewed by Chad Franzen of Rise25 to discuss helping optometrists overcome business challenges and build strong teams. He shares how focusing on culture and HR practices transforms practices, why peer-to-peer learning drives growth, and how his acquisition of Cleinman expands services for independent optometrists. Kevin also talks about lessons learned from leading a fast-growing marketing agency.

Sarah Vinson is the Owner and CEO of Lunette USA, a woman-owned company that imports and distributes luxury eyewear exclusively to independent optical boutiques across the US. She emphasizes building genuine partnerships with these independent opticians and helping them distinguish their practices. Sarah brings considerable experience in small-business operations to her leadership role. Under her direction, Lunette USA curates exclusive frames and supports its partners with competitive pricing, bespoke service, and designs not widely available locally.In this episode…Building loyalty in optometry means more than just offering quality eye exams. Practices must find ways to keep patients engaged between visits and make every interaction count. How can optical businesses create meaningful touchpoints that go beyond routine appointments?According to Sarah Vinson, a seasoned small business leader with experience spanning banking, construction, and retail, the key is to merge innovative products with strategic social media use. She highlights how frequent releases of new ZENKA eyewear toppers naturally draw patients back into practices for style updates, creating regular face-to-face opportunities. This steady stream of engagement strengthens customer relationships and helps practices compete beyond price alone. Sarah underscores that when small businesses focus on authentic connections, they build lasting trust and community loyalty.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Sarah Vinson, Owner and CEO of Lunette USA, to talk about creating face-to-face opportunities with patients through products and social media. They explore how frequent product launches can spark repeat visits, why purposeful social media drives stronger patient connections, and how authentic engagement builds loyalty. Sarah also shares advice on overcoming small business challenges and leveraging creativity without big advertising budgets.

Amanda Van Voris is the Senior Director of Client Solutions at Cleinman Performance Partners, a consulting firm that helps independent optometry practices grow through strategic, operational, and people-focused support. With over 20 years of experience, she leads her team in delivering solutions in areas like finance, systems, and organizational effectiveness to help clients achieve both large-scale growth and incremental improvements.In this episode…Growth is the dream of every independent practice owner, but the path to achieving it is rarely straightforward. From navigating financial hurdles to managing teams and creating systems that actually work, the challenges can feel overwhelming. So how do thriving practices make the leap from surviving to sustainable growth?According to Amanda Van Voris, a seasoned business consultant with over two decades of experience, growth begins with clarity around people, finance, and systems. She highlights that long-term success often comes from consistent planning, benchmarking, and being willing to pivot when unexpected challenges arise. The impact of this approach is evident in stories of practices that expanded from a single location to multiple thriving offices. Amanda emphasizes that true consulting is not about quick fixes but about behavior change, leadership development, and building confidence in owners. This is how practices not only grow but also evolve into resilient businesses that balance personal and professional goals.In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, host Kim Carson sits down with Amanda Van Voris, Senior Director of Client Solutions at Cleinman Performance Partners, to discuss driving growth in independent practices. She explains how to use people, finance, and systems as the foundation for scale, why pivoting builds stronger leaders, and the role of future visioning in practice success. Amanda also shares a simple tip any owner can use tomorrow to elevate patient experience.

Optometrist and former Practice Owner, Dr. Patrick Wellick of Apple Valley Eye Care in Apple Valley, MN, discusses his private equity practice divestiture journey and how he overcame a serious setback during the process. Practice owners will get great advice and tips on planning a successful exit.

Practice Administrator Sherri Kelly of Crystal Vision Clinic in Crystal, MN discusses how she and the Practice Owner, Dr. Chase Endres approached growing revenue by enhancing practice efficiencies and broadening their team’s financial literacy while maintaining exceptional patient care.

Dr. Dori Carlson, owner and optometrist at Heartland Eye Care, P.C. in North Dakota talks about the unique challenges and rewards of providing eyecare to elderly patients and shares strategies for optimizing optometry practice efficiency.

Dr. Dwight Barnes, co-owner and optometrist at Cary Family Eye Care in Cary, North Carolina shares his leadership journey and the important lessons he learned. Listen to hone your leadership skills.

Dr. Melanie Weiss, owner and optometrist at Weiss Eyecare Clinic in Watertown, SD reveals her in-depth strategies for establishing a successful dry eye clinic utilizing Intense Pulse Light (IPL) and Radio Frequency (RF) treatments. Learn the secrets to success!

Cleinman Performance Partners’ Senior Director of Client Solutions, Amanda Van Voris weighs in on best practices for finding, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding the right people to join your private optometry practice team. This episode is filled with proven success methods.

Michelle Devito Marinello, Attorney and Partner at Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP, discusses the top 5 common legal issues faced by private optometry practice owners and how to avoid them.

Join us as Dr. Billy McMillin of McMillin Eyecare in Kingsport, TN, shares his journey from Associate Doctor to partner, and ultimately, owner of his own practice. He offers valuable strategies and insights into succession planning to help ensure a seamless transition for any practice.

Our guest, optometry practice co-owner, manager, and veteran optician, Kari Whitehorne, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, shares her tried-and-true strategies that lead to second and multiple pairs of eyewear sales. You’ll walk away with real solutions to put into action right away!

Listen for exclusive tips as Dr. Dora Adamopoulos, President and Founder of Eye2Eye Optometry Corner and SomaSou MedSpa in Alexandria, VA details how she developed a very successful business featuring aesthetic services to enhance her private optometry practice.

Listen for great tips to improve your private optometry practice revenue! Guest Heidi Cass, operations manager for a two-location practice, Reed Optical in NH, reveals her successful methods for getting the most for a practice from frame and lens sales representatives.

Listen for great tips on incorporating luxury eyewear into an optometry practice from Dr. Joelle Zagury in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. She’ll share how she reached her luxury retail success quickly and how other practices can too.