In this week’s engaging episode of the Depth Perception Podcast, they delve into the vital yet often overlooked art of managing professional relationships. Join as they explore the dynamics of maintaining clear boundaries with staff, the delicate balance of nurturing friendships in educational and clinical settings, and the intricacies of handling challenging interactions in the office. This insightful discussion is packed with practical advice and key takeaways, including the importance of open communication and the power of appreciation in transforming workplace relationships. Whether you’re a student, a working professional, or simply interested in enhancing your interpersonal skills, this episode offers valuable perspectives to help you navigate the complex world of professional interactions.

Lunch Date with Drs. Rachel & Kate

On this week’s episode, the Defocus Media team discusses rewriting the geographic atrophy conversation with IZERVAY. Join us in an engaging podcast episode where Dr. Jennifer Lyerly engages with esteemed eye care experts, Dr. Cecelia Koetting and Dr. Darryl Glover, to discuss groundbreaking treatments for Geographic Atrophy and Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Dr. Koetting, practicing in Denver, CO, and renowned for her expertise in neuro-optometry and ocular surface disease, alongside Dr. Glover, delves into the latest FDA-approved medications, patient communication strategies, and the importance of collaborative eye care. This episode offers valuable insights for eye care professionals on how to have an AMD and geographic atrophy conversation.

Editorially Independently Sponsored by Iveric Bio, An Astellas Company. Iveric Bio had no control over the content of this piece.

Hope In Sight

Table of ContentsEditorially Independently Sponsored by Iveric Bio, An Astellas Company. Iveric Bio had no control over the content of this piece.

Dr. Jennifer Lyerly:

Dr. Koetting, I’m eager to hear about your professional journey since we graduated from The Southern College of Optometry. You’ve had quite an exciting career. You’ve been particularly busy over the last couple of years, haven’t you?

Dr. Cecelia Koetting:

Dr. Cecelia Koetting, Optometrist

Yes, indeed. After graduation, I completed my residency in Cincinnati at the VA. Following that, I briefly worked in Tucson for about a year. Then, for nearly a decade, I was in Virginia at a referral center, Virginia Eye Consultants, closely collaborating with ophthalmologists. My focus was primarily on eye diseases, which we humorously referred to as my “tenure fellowship.” It was an extraordinary experience. More recently, about two years ago, I relocated to Colorado and joined the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Here, I continue my specialization in eye diseases, particularly ocular and neurological disorders, but I also handle a variety of cases, as most of us do.

Dr. Jennifer Lyerly:

That’s intriguing. Are you involved in teaching, and what does your current position entail?

Dr. Cecelia Koetting:

Currently, I’m not teaching, but I hope to in the future. In Virginia, I served as both the extern and resident director at Eye Consultants, and I’m aiming to introduce similar opportunities for aspiring optometrists at the University of Colorado. Interestingly, our staff optometrists teach the ophthalmology residency program, which I think is quite remarkable.

Evolution of Patient Conversations Around Dry Age Related Macular Degeneration

Dr. Jennifer Lyerly:

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Darryl Glover delves into the universal challenge of hiring in eye care with Dr. Mike Neal. Dr. Neal, an optometrist turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from struggling with traditional hiring practices in his rural practice to revolutionizing the process through his company, Build My Team. He highlights the inefficacy of relying solely on resumes and advocates for a more holistic approach, inspired by renowned organizations like Disney and Four Seasons. This method prioritizes assessments over resumes, seeking candidates who have the necessary skills and embody the ethos and patient care philosophy crucial in healthcare.

Dr. Neal’s insights into creating effective job descriptions, the importance of quick communication, and the need for a comprehensive evaluation process offer valuable guidance for healthcare professionals facing the daunting task of building a cohesive and competent team. Join us as we explore these transformative ideas that are reshaping the way healthcare professionals approach hiring, ultimately leading to more efficient practices and enhanced patient care.

Key Objectives:Who is Dr. Michael Neal, CEO of Build My TeamThe Genesis of a Hiring in Eye Care RevolutionAddressing Hiring in Eye Care Challenges4 Steps in Hiring in Eye Care with Building My TeamThe Impact of Effective Hiring on Eye Care Practices

Who is Dr. Michael Neal, CEO of Build My Team

Dr. Darryl Glover:

Welcome to the show. I’m grateful for your participation and contributions to eye care. I’m excited about today’s topic because it’s relevant not just in eye care, but in healthcare and every other industry – hiring. There’s a significant gap in this area, and you’re an expert who has revolutionized the hiring process. But before we dive into that, could you share a bit about yourself – your background, where you’re from, your education, and maybe a fun fact?

Dr. Mike Neal:

Dr Michael Neal, CEO of Build My Team

Thank you, Darryl. Since we have ample time, I’ll start from the beginning. I was born quite early in life, but let’s fast forward from there. I describe myself as an entrepreneur in an optometrist’s body. I studied in Philadelphia, attending PCO, now known as Salus University, and graduated in 2001. I’ve been in private practice in the Poconos ever since.

Dr. Darryl Glover:

That sounds great.

Dr. Mike Neal:

Yes, it’s been a journey. For a fun fact, I’m a parent to two wonderful children, aged nine and twelve, with my wife. Balancing work and parenting is an adventure in itself. On a personal note, I’m a runner. I started running in March 2022 and recently qualified for the Boston and Chicago marathons, which was an achievement beyond my expectations.

Dr. Darryl Glover:

Impressive!

As optometrists, how do we look at geographic atrophy differently? Join us for an engaging and informative discussion with Dr. Jennifer Lyerly and Dr. Mile Brujic, renowned optometry experts, as they explore the evolving challenges and innovative treatments of geographic atrophy.

Dr. Brujic brings invaluable insights from his extensive, multi-location practice, emphasizing the need for early detection and advanced imaging in modern eye care. Dr. Lyerly adeptly leads the dialogue, focusing on the significant impact of this condition and the crucial role of optometrists in its management. Discover and learn about the latest advancements in eye care and optometrists’ increasingly vital role in early intervention and management of geographic atrophy, a condition significantly reshaping our understanding of comprehensive eye care.

Editorially Independently Sponsored by Iveric Bio, An Astellas Company. Iveric Bio had no control over the content of this piece.

Hope in Sight

Key Objectives:

Optometry Practice Insights and The Growing Importance of Medical Optometry

Dr. Jennifer Lyerly:

Dr. Brujic, I see you’re joining us from your optometry office. Could you share a bit about your clinic and what a typical day is like for you as an optometrist?

Dr. Mile Brujic:

Sure. I’m a part-owner of a four-location practice in Northwest Ohio, with two partners and eight doctors in total. I mainly work out of one location but visit another office every other week to see patients, focusing more on specialty cases. I’ve been in private practice for 21 years, and it’s been an incredible journey witnessing the evolution of optometry and anticipating its future directions.

Dr. Jennifer Lyerly:

As a private practice owner, I imagine medical optometry is a significant part of your work. Have you noticed increased demand for medical care in your role as an optometrist?

Dr. Mile Brujic, Optometrist and Retina Expert

Dr. Mile Brujic:

Absolutely, Jenn. Since 2002, I’ve been fascinated by aspects of optometry where we can make a real impact, either through direct treatment or by quickly identifying subspecialties that benefit patients. This scope has expanded greatly, especially in the last five years. The practice of optometry has transformed rapidly, with many new developments that weren’t available even to those who graduated five years ag...

In the latest Podcast episode from the Depth Perception, explore Dr. Kambiz Silani’s remarkable journey from Western University to a distinguished private practice in Beverly Hills. Overcoming his own struggle with dry eyes, he became a pioneer in eyecare, offering luxurious, personalized experiences and innovative treatments. His approach extends beyond traditional care, fostering deep connections with patients and enhancing visits with a unique Instagram wall. Dr. Silani’s dedication to improving the dry eye space and leaving a lasting impact is truly inspiring. Tune in to learn from a visionary about finding your niche in eyecare.

Dive into the world of the CEV Collection with Jamal Robinson. Jamal shares his humble beginnings in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to creating a globally recognized eyewear brand. Jamal’s journey is a masterclass in innovation and diversity. Discover how his vision for business and philanthropy comes to life through CEV’s culturally inspired designs and strategic collaborations, including a notable partnership with cultural icon Dame Dash. Prepare for an inspiring story that melds entrepreneurial spirit with a commitment to diversity, setting a new standard in the eyewear industry. Join us for a captivating conversation that’s not just about eyewear but about making a real impact.

Key Objectives :Discovering Jamal Robinson: A Journey from Fort Wayne to CEV Collection Jamal’s Vision: Changing the World Through Business and PhilanthropyBuilding The CEV Collection: The Story Behind the BrandThe CEV Collection Partnerships for Growth: Navigating the Eyewear IndustryIconic Collaborations: The CEV Collection and Dame Dash’s Eyewear Venture

Discovering Jamal Robinson: A Journey from Fort Wayne to CEV Collection

Dr. Darryl Glover:

I always like to start by understanding who I’m talking to. Where are you from? Where did you receive your education? And, if you don’t mind sharing, perhaps a fun fact about yourself, my man.

Jamal Robinson:

I love that. My name is Jamal Robinson, and I’m the co-founder of CEV Collection, originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana. We’ll delve into this a bit later, but my co-founder is also from Fort Wayne. I attended Northrop High School, which I consider the best. After high school, I played college soccer and obtained my degree from W.G.U. Indiana. That’s where my story begins, and we’ll dive deeper during the show. A fun fact about me—well, actually, about my wife—is that she’s the great-granddaughter of the last Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie, making her a princess of Ethiopia.

Jamal’s Vision: Changing the World Through Business and Philanthropy

Dr. Darryl Glover:

Let’s get this ball rolling, man. Today, I really want to dive into your life, Jamal. To start, let’s discuss your ‘why’. What drives you?

Jamal Robinson, Co-founder of The CEV Collection

Welcome to another episode of the 2020 podcast ,featuring an exclusive interview from the 38th Congress of The Canadian Association of Optometrists, held in Quebec City. Our host, Harbir Sian, had the honor of engaging in a thought-provoking dialogue with Dr. Harry Bohnsack, the esteemed outgoing President, and Dr. Martin Spiro, the distinguished incoming President of the CAO. This episode offers a unique glimpse into the dynamic initiatives spearheaded by the CAO to foster the advancement of optometry throughout Canada. Drs. Bohnsack and Spiro eloquently share their personal journeys and their ascent within the CAO, highlighting their ground-level experiences and their commitment to the betterment of the association. We invite you to tune in and immerse yourself in this enlightening conversation, gaining valuable insights into the pivotal role the CAO plays in uniting and elevating the optometry profession across the nation.

Imagine Reps and Opticians working together. Imagine an eye care magazine that helps to provide eye care professionals with a unique community that encourages positive conversations and provides resources to work better together. Join Dr. Darryl Glover in an engaging discussion with Mikki Collins, an influential figure in the optical industry. Mikki shares her journey and the inspiration behind ROWT Magazine.

Mikki Collins, Founder of ROWT Magazine

Key Objectives Mikki Collins: A Country Girl at Heart with an Optical CareerReps and Opticians Working Together (ROWT Magazine): Bridging Gaps in the Optical IndustryReps and Opticians Working Together (ROWT Magazine): A Free Resource for Opticians and RepsFuture Visions and Aspirations of ROWT Magazine’s Founder

Mikki Collins: A Country Girl at Heart with an Optical Career

Dr. Darryl Glover:

So, my friend, would you mind sharing your background, where you’re from, and where you represent?

Mikki Collins:

I’m a country girl at heart, and that’s something I like to tell everyone. I live in Seattle, Washington, but was born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia – not Virginia, which often confuses people. Before we dive in, I want to highlight something I learned during my optical career: our industry is much larger than I initially realized. This discovery has influenced my career path. As a mother of two boys and a wife, I credit my family, especially being a military spouse, for guiding me into the medical field.

My journey in optometry began at a Vision Source clinic, which sparked my love for eyewear and fashion. From my first week, I was constantly shopping for glasses, and it’s fascinating to see how my style has evolved. Working with reps and getting more involved with them eventually led me to my current position in business development at Safilo.

Reps and Opticians Working Together (ROWT Magazine): Bridging Gaps in the Optical Industry

Dr. Darryl Glover:

Why did you start Reps and Opticians Working Together Magazine and brand?

Mikki Collins:

I remember a day when, after a long drive to Oregon, I arrived at an appointment that had forgotten to schedule me, followed by another appointment where only one out of four frames was purchased. This experience was disheartening. On my way home, I pondered how to improve communication between opticians and reps and raise awareness about the challenges reps face, like those working on a 1099 basis. There were no resources for aspiring reps, and I wanted to bridge this gap positively. So, I turned to Instagram, marketing myself like a real estate agent to become recognizable. That’s how Route Magazine started, born out of frustration but aimed at creating a constructive,