Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Chris Lopez about the 2025 ODs on Finance report, discussing key findings related to optometry salaries, student loan debt, and the importance of financial education. They explore regional salary disparities, work-life balance, and the impact of gender on income. The conversation emphasizes the need for better financial literacy among optometrists and the potential benefits of practice ownership.

Download the full report here: https://odsonfinance.com/optometrist-income-report2025/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

02:25 Background of Dr. Chris Lopez

05:54 Insights from the 2025 ODs on Finance Report

09:24 Regional Salary Disparities in Optometry

12:31 Work-Life Balance and Income Expectations

16:12 The Need for Financial Education in Optometry Schools

19:11 Income Trends Based on Practice Modality

23:54 Rural vs Urban Practice Opportunities

27:03 Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Optometry

30:50 Trends in Female Practice Ownership

31:46 Empowerment Through Ownership

33:08 Income Disparities in Optometry

36:07 Average Net Worth of Optometrists

38:21 Impact of Practice Ownership on Financial Success

40:28 Understanding Financial Metrics in Optometry

42:26 Gender and Racial Disparities in Net Worth

44:44 Student Loan Debt and Financial Education

47:43 Navigating Student Loan Repayment Options

50:46 Investment Strategies for Financial Freedom

51:45 The Importance of Side Hustles

55:08 Job Satisfaction in Optometry

59:47 Financial Challenges Facing Optometrists

01:01:17 Final Thoughts on Financial Literacy in Optometry

Takeaways

- Dr. Chris Lopez shares his journey in optometry and the importance of financial education.

- The 2025 ODs on Finance report highlights significant disparities in optometry salaries based on region and practice modality.

- Student loan debt remains a critical issue for new optometrists, with many graduating with over $300,000 in debt.

- The average optometry salary is surprisingly high, but many optometrists struggle with retirement savings.

- Gender disparities in income persist, with female optometrists earning less than their male counterparts.

- Work-life balance is shifting, with many optometrists preferring four-day work weeks.

- The importance of understanding financial literacy and planning for financial freedom is emphasized.

- Investing in diverse assets is crucial for long-term financial health.

- Side hustles are not common among optometrists, but filling in extra days can be more lucrative.

- The conversation encourages optometrists to seek mentorship and resources for financial education.