Bob Hillman has over 60 years experience in Eye Care. He opened his first optical shop in 1967. In 1971, Pearle purchased a 17-store optical chain owned by Robert “Bob” Hillman and Larry Kohan; together, Hillman and Kohan stayed on and helped to expand Pearle Vision nationwide. Hillman revolutionized retail vision care that gave birth to one hour eyewear in the 1980's. As Fabulous Fanny’s enters its fourth decade, optical industry legend and fellow vintage lover, Bob Hillman (Pearle Vision & Eyelab Founder) continue Stan and Ken's vision for a new generation looking to express their originality in ways both old and new.

In this episode, Bob shares his extensive experience in the eye care industry, from working in eyeglass factories to opening his own optical stores and laboratories. He discusses the craftsmanship and skills he learned from experienced opticians and the importance of apprenticeships in becoming a successful optician. Bob also talks about his collaborations with industry leaders like Bill Benedict and Stanley Pearl, and the expansion of his businesses, including the launch of iLab and the growth of his retail chain.

Key Takeaways:

1. Build a strong team and provide excellence.
2. Collaborate with industry leaders.
3. The growth of online sales has led to a shift in the eyewear industry

Connect with Bob Hillman
Website: https://fabulousfannysnyc.com/

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:30 Craftsmanship and Apprenticeships
08:04 Collaborating with Industry Leaders
13:35 Building a Full-Service Department Store
18:42 High-Volume Operations and Success
21:53 Expansion and Growth
26:51 The Impact of One-Hour Service
33:20 Managing Full-Service Laboratories
34:17 The Impact of Digital Lens Technology
35:26 Craftsmanship and Skill in Eyewear Production
37:35 The Shift in the Eyewear Industry
40:33 The Profitability of Brick and Mortar Stores
44:45 Growth Potential for Independent Opticians
48:52 Introducing Fabulous Fanny 2.0

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Joe Sabel is now the president and owner of Western Optical Supply, a supplier and manufacturer of optical dispensing tools. Over the past 20 years, Joe Sabel has held various leadership roles for Essilor, Walman, Lombart and most recently, Bausch + Lomb.

Specializing in optician care, Joe earned his ABL certification and has since focused on empowering opticians through education and practical training. He offers online courses that cover essential skills like solder repairs and tool usage, aiming to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Joe shares his journey, highlighting the value of proper training and the transformative power of education within eye care. The duo discusses the evolving landscape driven by online education, social media branding, and innovative tools, offering a peek into the promising future of the industry.

Key Takeaways:

1. Continuous education is crucial.
2. Leverage technology.
3. Foster community.

Connect with Joe Sabel
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joe-sabel-8712558/

Timestamps
00:00 Outstanding training led to valuable best practices.
05:37 Wollman and Sherry are strong in education.
06:49 Brief discussion about roles and equity management.
12:32 Expanding target market, adjusting internal operations, opportunities.
13:43 Opticians need more support to broaden knowledge.
17:13 Positive, impactful dialogue on navigating independence.
21:34 Collaboration and anticipation are crucial for success.
24:56 Violinist connects with new business opportunities.
28:52 Adapting to new methods is essential.
31:09 Gathering membership and exposure for local labs.
35:25 Helping others succeed; delivering products preemptively.
37:37 Expressing gratitude for shared experiences and growth.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Dr. Michael Neal joined his wife’s optometry practice in 2008 and has since revolutionized the business by focusing on high-performance culture and strategic team placements. His innovative hiring process, centered on psychometrics and inspired by industry leaders like 4 Seasons and Disney, has dramatically increased both gross and net income. Dr. Neal founded Build My Team to help other medical practices streamline hiring and improve team performance.

Today, Dr. Michael Neal shares his expert insights on building a high-performance culture, the significance of placing the right people in the right roles, and the emotional rewards of enriching lives through quality vision care. Learn about the importance of efficient team members, profit-sharing strategies, and innovative hiring processes that drive remarkable financial performances.

Key Takeaways:

1. Adopt high-performance cultures.
2. Align practice goals through implementing profit-sharing for team members.
3. Leverage psychometric assessments in hiring

Connect with Dr. Michael Neal
Website: www.buildmyteam.com

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to understanding metrics and culture in optometry.
04:15 Importance of building a high-performance culture.
07:45 Emotional impact of work satisfaction on productivity.
12:30 Rewarding aspects of impacting lives through vision care.
17:25 Aligning team goals with profit-sharing strategies.
22:50 Dr. Mike Neal's practice success story with A and B players.
27:35 Efficient team members' role in achieving financial success.
32:00 Impact of placing employees in roles where they thrive.
36:10 Hiring innovations: psychometrics and automated processes.
40:45 Importance of time management and team quality for ODs.
45:30 Next steps for enhancing practice efficiency and profitability.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Danielle Crull is a founder and owner of A Child's Eye in Mechanicsburg. With over three decades of experience in the optical industry, Danielle has honed a unique approach to pediatric eye care, emphasizing personalization, understanding body language, and adapting to each child's needs.

Danielle shares her journey from being a skeptic optician to a passionate business owner, emphasizing the importance of personalized, child-centered eye care. She also introduces us to her remarkable cat, Truffles, who plays a unique role in easing children's fears during eye exams.

Key Takeaways:

1. Tailor your approach by considering the child's personality, needs, and family dynamics.
2. Glasses can be strange for children at first.
3. Meeting Children where they are psychologically is critical.

Connect with Danielle Crull 
www,achildseyes.com
www.trufflesthekitty.org
www.isitgonnahurt.com

Timestamps
00:00 Optometrist specialized in pediatric eye care services.
07:10 Referrals based on personality, need, medical expertise.
08:05 Understanding body language, adapting approach to needs.
13:12 Children hesitant with eye doctor; use humor.
15:59 Focus on kids' needs, growth of business.
19:00 Remote services for immunocompromised people and product changes.
22:46 Survival in life, understanding blue light's impact.
26:02 Lack of body language in video communication.
28:56 Adjusting to masks revealed surprising artistic insights.
32:56 Optimizing glasses and patch-wearing success.
34:07 Effective communication key in succeeding parenting process.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Dr. Kristie Nguyen has 18+ years of experience as an optometrist, helping people improve their vision and eye health. She also has a keen interest in digital marketing and social media, and she uses these skills to promote eyecare products and services to a wider audience.

In this episode, Dr. Kristie Nguyen talks about the strategic use of social media to grow a successful optometry practice. Drawing from personal experiences, Dr. Nguyen shares valuable insights into content creation, consistent engagement, and the importance of a recognizable personal brand.

Key Takeaways:
1. Create content and have fun doing it.
2. Networking and genuine connections can lead to unexpected opportunities.
3. Leverage social media for brand promotion.

Connect with Dr. Kristie Nguyen
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/drkristienguyen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.kristienguyen
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.kristienguyen

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Dr. Kristie Nguyen's journey in optometry and social media marketing.
04:12 The importance of consistent sharing and engaging with other content on social media.
08:45 Benefits of hiring a brand ambassador and maintaining boundaries between personal and professional content.
11:30 Networking and making authentic connections; the story behind connecting with Go Eyewear.
16:02 The role of visual identity and Dr. Nguyen's consistent and bold hair color choices.
20:50 Discussion on industry changes: expanding licensure and laser treatments for optometrists.
23:15 Patient loyalty and the extent to which they will travel for good healthcare.
27:30 The inclusive nature of LinkedIn and making cross-industry connections.
31:45 Advice for technology companies on making business information accessible.
35:50 Closing thoughts and promotion of icclearly.com for remote healthcare opportunities.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Kimberly Vohsen  is the President of the Show Me State Optician's Society. With over 17 years of experience as an optician, she has established herself as a leader in the field. Kimberly holds a BA Degree in Graphic Design and Graphic Arts, blending her expertise in optics with a creative background.

Kimberly Vohsen and Peter Pretch explore the fascinating intersections of eye care with industries like hip hop and gaming. We'll dive into the importance of communication and education in harnessing new technological tools, the value of live continuing education sessions, and the critical role of mentors and seasoned professionals in the field.

They also discuss the potential growth opportunities through strategic collaborations across various sectors, the evolution of optician societies, and the importance of proactive approaches in advancing the industry. They highlight the significance of sharing best practices, leveraging technology, and fostering strong networks to ensure the future of opticianry remains bright.
 
Whether you're an established optician or just starting out, this episode is packed with invaluable insights into education, certification, and the ever-evolving landscape of the opticianry profession.

Key Takeaways:
1. A proactive approach and strategic growth are crucial for the future of opticianr
2. Communication and educational platforms for opticians are important.
3. Leverage education, certifications, and technology

Connect with Kimberly Vohsen
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlyvohsen
Website: www.showmestateopticians.org/home

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
04:12 The unexpected collaboration between eye care and hip hop
08:45 The vital role of technology in modern opticianry
14:20 Importance and benefits of live CE sessions
19:09 Proactive vs Reactive approaches: A critical analysis
24:35 Encouraging communication and inclusive practices in opticianry
29:50 Forming state societies: Insights from Asheville
34:58 Merging training bodies and certification relevance with the OAA
39:22 Time management tactics for opticians
45:05 Empowering newer professionals through mentorship and education
50:30 Aligning the future of optician societies with modern needs

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Dave Barton is Co-founder & CEO of Optify Online. Prior to Optify, he spent 7 years building an online Direct To Consumer optical brand with industry leading software. He is formerly of Oliver Peoples and Paul Smith Spectacles. He draws on over a decade making eyewear for the best brands in the world, having traveled across the globe in search of the best materials and style options and is based in Southern California.

Dave provides fascinating insights into the transformation of the optometry industry through innovative solutions. Optify isn’t just a tool; it embodies the bridge between digital convenience and traditional patient care, aiming to enhance the optometric experience both online and offline.

Key Takeaways:
1. Successful selling online is a click away
2. Enhance engagement
3. Embrace systems like Optify to seamlessly merge online and offline patient experiences.

Connect with Dave Barton
Website: optifyonline.com

Timestamps
00:00 Identifying industry challenges and modernizing optometry.
05:05 Italy food lover turned independent eyewear entrepreneur.
07:12 Excited about modernizing industry, aware of challenges.
11:29 Communication is key to professional expertise.
15:39 Tech tools enhance patient care and visibility.
17:54 Value of optician, relationships, quantifying product. Demographics, age?
20:20 Valuable market potential for prescription safety eyewear.
23:37 Addressing optical market challenges with accessible solutions.
27:42 Moving Optify to new practice is cool.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Cesar Rodriguez is a thoughtful observer and commentator on the intersection of society and technology. His insights into the diffusion of innovation are marked by a keen understanding that acceptance of new technologies is directly tied to a person’s grasp of them. Rodriguez believes that fear of the unknown often hinders individuals from adopting new technology, and this hesitation can only be remedied through increased comprehension and familiarity, which is often bolstered by savvy marketing strategies.

Cesar provides invaluable insights into the importance of adapting to emerging eyewear trends and leveraging technology, like AI and virtual try-ons, within optometric practices. From the personalized fitting experience offered by EyeCClearly to embracing technology for consumer-driven success, this episode is packed with forward-thinking strategies for optometry professionals.

Key Takeaways:
1. Optometry has a unique opportunity to sell outside of their doors right now
2. Understand and meet the evolving needs of consumers
3. Providing prescription safety eyewear through unique on-site fittings can create new opportunities for growth.

Connect with Cesar Rodriguez
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/private-eyes-llc-421b89261/

Timestamps
00:00 The relevance of technology in optometry practice.
06:10 Mobile optical business serves various community needs.
08:24 Introduction to a failed computer eyewear program.
12:11 Embrace online ordering for your practice's future.
15:30 Collecting insights, convenience, and engagement in eyewear.
19:08 Trickle allows for identifying process bottlenecks.
21:31 Experience enhanced, important for branding and growth.
25:43 Connectivity to group, guidance, and living world.
30:24 Be open to new opportunities, ask questions.
31:22 Challenges in eyecare industry, but technology helps.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Karen Michaelson, a beacon in Minnesota's optical community, has long been influenced by her father's legacy as a dedicated optician of 76 years. Following in his footsteps, she charted a path of service and commitment to her field. Her father was not just a skilled craftsman; he was a visionary who founded the Minnesota Optician Society in the 1970s, creating a forum for optical professionals to unite, learn, and grow together.

Karen shares her passionate journey, emphasizing the human aspect integral to opticianry. From connecting with patients virtually to addressing the impact of technology and private equity buyouts on the profession, this episode is a treasure trove of industry wisdom and foresight.

Key Takeaways:
1. Connect your experiences with your future
2. Inclusive approach is the winner for the 3 O's: Optometry, Ophthalmology, and Opticianry
3. Growth with new approaches is badly needed

Connect with Karen Michaelson
Website: www.consultingwithkare.com

Timestamps
00:00 Minneapolis group revives optics society, honoring founder.
03:36 Passion for local missions and giving back.
06:52 Optometric and optician collaboration in Pennsylvania.
12:42 Mapping out career path, connecting the dots.
13:35 Connecting the dots from past to present.
17:02 Reflecting on past experiences and embracing change.
21:44 Opticians should support, not ridicule, beginners.
26:30 Optifie users experience growth, but risk losing clients.
27:03 Direct one-on-one interaction keeps opticians engaged.
30:06 Optician fits boy with glasses he likes.
34:36 Trust, compassion, listening, improvement, bridging gaps, empathy, patient-centered.
36:30 Promote spreading message, seek input, improve understanding.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com

Howard Klemm is a pioneer in the field of coating technology. With his expertise, he has significantly improved anti-reflective coatings and blue filters, making a huge difference for patients wearing minus lenses. His work, combined with digital surfacing technology, has eliminated peripheral blur and provided patients with a wider field of view.

Howard Klemm delve into the evolving landscape of optometry, touching upon topics like the impact of time usage on profits, patient care, advancements in lens technology, and the growing trend of online eyewear purchases. With a focus on enhancing profitability and patient satisfaction, this episode offers valuable insights for aspiring and established opticians alike.


Key Takeaways:

1. The impact of time usage on profitability.
2. Emphasis on patient care and loyalty.
3. Evolution of lens technology.

Connect with Howard Klemm:
Website: www.katzeneye.com

Timestamps
04:01 Support for coatings on kids' eyewear.
07:16 Uninformed guy faces job replacement by AI.
12:45 Improved patient experience and expanded services.
14:34 Home, commute, hobbies, after-work routine recommendations.
19:04 New opticians association in PA expanding.
22:58 Associations are important for mentorship and learning.
25:59 New eye products constantly appear for assessment.
32:28 Remote frame styling in dispensaries is a win-win.

Talk with Peter Precht: www.eyecclearly.com