3 Key Takeaways

In this episode of Play Chess Not Checkers, host Dr. Adam Ramsey sits down with Dr. Adam Young, founder of First Class Eye Care in Georgia. Dr. Young shares his story of persistence, growth, and purpose—from his roots at the University of Georgia and the Southern College of Optometry to building one of Atlanta’s standout private practices. His experience offers valuable insight into what it takes to turn vision into a sustainable and profitable eye care business.

Dr. Young grew up driven by his mother’s expectation of excellence. That discipline carried him through the University of Georgia, where he learned to navigate new environments and engage with diverse perspectives. Later, at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, he developed communication skills that became central to his approach to patient care. He often reflects on how those early experiences prepared him to connect with patients, build trust, and understand the nuances of real-world practice.

During his time at SCO, Dr. Young created the name “First Class Eye Care” and even purchased the domain long before graduation. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, he used that period to transition from corporate optometry to entrepreneurship. He realized the importance of building something of his own—one that reflected his values of service, quality, and integrity. The result was a modern, patient-centered practice built to deliver exceptional care.

Every detail of First Class Eye Care is intentional. From advanced diagnostics to a boutique-style optical, Dr. Young’s focus is on making each visit memorable. Patients undergo thorough pre-testing, including topography-integrated autorefraction, visual field screening, and widefield imaging. The practice also offers OCT and axial length measurement for myopia management. By including technology that enhances efficiency and clinical outcomes, Dr. Young ensures his patients experience the value of comprehensive care.

Profitability, Dr. Young explains, is the result of planning and precision. His approach blends clinical quality with operational strategy. Every investment, from technology to training, is made with intention. He monitors metrics beyond revenue—such as patient retention, staff performance, and online reviews—to keep the practice aligned with its long-term goals. His philosophy mirrors the “chess” mindset that the podcast embodies: anticipate, plan, and move strategically.

Dr. Young credits his success to empowering his team. Early in his ownership journey, he realized that consistency and communication were key to scaling care. He designed his own training materials and implemented regular role-play sessions to reinforce product knowledge, optical presentation, and patient handoffs. His goal is to ensure every team member is confident in their role and understands how their actions influence both the patient experience and the business’s bottom line. The result has been a team-driven environment that operates efficiently and with pride.

Dr. Young’s wife, also an optometrist, plays a vital role in their success. Together, they balance their responsibilities across specialties—he focuses on scleral lenses and myopia control, while she manages glaucoma and dry eye cases. Their collaboration allows patients to transition seamlessly between providers, enhancing continuity of care. At home, they maintain a clear boundary between work and personal life, supporting each other while keeping family at the center.

While the business has thrived, Dr. Young acknowledges the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the difficulty of switching off after hours. Managing staff, operations, and patient care can feel all-consuming, but he continues to prioritize growth with purpose. His long-term vision is to expand into a larger, multi-doctor facility while maintaining the family-oriented atmosphere that defines First Class Eye Care.

Dr. Young encourages students and new graduates to stay focused, gain diverse experiences, and pursue mentorship early. He reminds listeners that success rarely follows a straight line and that persistence often determines who thrives. His advice for future applicants is to seek out meaningful relationships and to request recommendations that reflect genuine understanding and passion for the field.

Dr. Adam Young’s story is a testament to persistence, purpose, and planning. By blending strategic business thinking with compassionate care, he has built a practice that not only thrives financially but also enriches his community. His journey illustrates that a profitable eye care practice is about more than numbers—it’s about creating a legacy of trust, quality, and excellence in every encounter.