Dr. Ryan Corte discusses strategies for optometrists to effectively manage the busy year-end period. He emphasizes the importance of optimizing patient scheduling, communicating with the team and patients, fostering team morale, ensuring operational efficiency, and addressing compliance and financial planning. The goal is to not only survive the year-end rush but to thrive with energy and gratitude as they head into 2026.

Chapters

00:00 Preparing for Year-End Success

05:14 Optimizing Patient Scheduling

09:32 Team Coordination and Morale

11:34 Compliance and Financial Preparedness

Takeaways

• Be intentional about finishing the year strong.
• Optimize patient scheduling to manage high demand.
• Communicate effectively with your team and patients.
• Foster team morale during the busy season.
• Prepare operationally for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance and financial planning are in place.
• Show gratitude and appreciation to your team.
• Utilize checklists for supplies and equipment.
• Schedule meetings with accountants for financial review.
• Thrive during the year-end rush, not just survive.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the comprehensive process of rebranding an optometry practice, emphasizing the importance of clarity, consistency, and connection. He shares his personal journey of rebranding from Northlake Eye to Reflect Vision Care, detailing the steps involved, including developing a brand identity, legal considerations, internal team alignment, and effective communication with patients. Dr. Corte highlights the significance of thorough preparation and the challenges that may arise during the rebranding process, ultimately encouraging practitioners to approach rebranding with intention and a focus on community impact.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Rebranding in Optometry

03:05 Steps to Develop a Brand Identity

05:49 Legal and Administrative Considerations

08:55 Internal Communication and Team Alignment

11:38 External Communication and Patient Engagement

14:34 Final Thoughts on the Rebranding an Optometry Practice

Takeaways

• Rebranding is not just about a new name or logo.
• Clarity, consistency, and connection are key to branding.
• Developing a brand identity requires strategic planning.
• Legal compliance is crucial during the rebranding process.
• Internal communication is essential for team alignment.
• External communication should be clear and transparent for patients.
• A checklist can help manage the rebranding process effectively.
• Rebranding can take time and requires patience.
• Community engagement is important post-rebranding.
• Rebranding should be approached with intention and purpose.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the controversial topic of optometric residency, exploring its pros and cons based on his personal experience. He emphasizes the importance of residency in building clinical confidence, specializing in various areas of optometry, and enhancing career opportunities. However, he also addresses the financial sacrifices and potential delays in starting a full-time practice that come with pursuing a residency. Dr. Corte shares his journey through the residency application process, the challenges he faced, and the valuable experiences he gained during his training. He concludes by encouraging listeners to weigh their options carefully and consider their long-term career goals when deciding whether to pursue a residency.

Chapters

00:00 The Residency Debate in Optometry

02:48 Pros of Optometric Residency

06:02 Cons of Optometric Residency

08:53 Personal Journey Through Residency

12:08 The Transition to Residency Life

14:56 Academic and Clinical Growth During Residency

17:43 Final Thoughts on Residency Decision

Takeaways

• Residency is debated in optometry for its value and necessity.
• It provides advanced clinical training and specialization opportunities.
• Financial sacrifices are a significant consideration for new graduates.
• Residency can delay the start of a full-time optometric career.
• Not all practice settings require a residency for success.
• Personal experiences during residency can shape future career paths.
• Networking and mentorship opportunities are enhanced through residency.
• Teaching and academic involvement can be part of the residency experience.
• Confidence in managing ocular diseases is significantly improved through residency.
• Decisions about residency should be based on individual career goals and circumstances.

Dr. Joshua Davidson shares his journey through the world of optometry, discussing the challenges and failures he faced in product development, his experiences in optometry school, and the unique patient care environment in Louisiana. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and the entrepreneurial spirit in advancing the field of optometry. Davidson also reflects on the balance between professional aspirations and family life, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions while recognizing their limitations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Joshua Davidson

11:14 Journey into Optometry and Early Experiences

17:25 Specialty Contact Lenses and Ocular Surface Disease

21:28 Developing an Externship Program at Williamson Eye Center

24:14 Finding Your Niche in Optometry

29:50 The Entrepreneurial Spirit in Optometry

37:02 Innovations in Eye Care Products

45:42 Future Aspirations and Work-Life Balance

47:49 The Importance of Collaboration in Optometry

Takeaways

• Dr. Davidson faced numerous challenges in product development, including failures in launching necktie companies.
• He emphasizes the importance of learning from failures and not being afraid to take risks.
• Optometry has provided him with a fulfilling career, allowing him to help patients and make a difference.
• The experience at MCO was positive, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment among students.
• Transitioning to Louisiana presented unique challenges, including cultural differences in patient communication.
• The licensing process in Louisiana is manageable with a solid foundation in optometry.
• Specialty contact lenses and dry eye care are growing fields that offer significant opportunities for optometrists.
• Building an externship program at Williamson Eye Center has been rewarding, providing students with hands-on experience.
• Davidson's entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of innovative products for dry eye care.
• He stresses the importance of collaboration and surrounding oneself with smarter individuals to succeed.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Carly Rose, an optometrist known for her impactful presence on social media and her journey through the optometry profession. They discuss Dr. Rose's path into optometry, her experiences during residency, and her transition into business ownership with a focus on dry eye treatment. The conversation delves into the challenges of burnout, the importance of mindfulness, and the need for balance in a busy professional life. Dr. Rose shares her insights on embracing fear, taking action, and the future of holistic health in optometry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Carly Rose's Journey

05:14 The Path to Optometry: A Personal Story

09:26 Choosing ICO and the Residency Experience

15:44 Transitioning to Private Practice Ownership

21:21 Navigating Burnout and Personal Health

24:14 The Radium Girls and Burnout Awareness

26:40 Listening to Your Body's Signals

29:16 The Journey to Homeostasis

31:14 Finding Silence Amidst Noise

33:42 Overcoming Fear in Business Ownership

35:30 Navigating Emotional Energy and Burnout

37:30 Holistic Health in Optometry

40:09 The Unpredictability of Career Paths

42:32 Regulating Emotions for Effective Decision Making

Takeaways

• Dr. Carly Rose emphasizes the importance of social media for optometrists.
• She initially did not plan on pursuing higher education.
• Her journey into optometry was influenced by her sister's career.
• Residency experience was pivotal in shaping her career.
• She faced challenges in business ownership, particularly in dry eye treatment.
• Burnout is a significant issue in the optometry profession.
• Mindfulness and self-care are crucial for maintaining balance.
• Fear should be acknowledged but not allowed to hinder progress.
• Holistic health is becoming increasingly relevant in optometry.
• Finding joy in one's career is essential for long-term satisfaction.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the common misconceptions surrounding contact lens wear for patients with astigmatism. He shares personal experiences with patients who were previously told they were not candidates for contact lenses and emphasizes the importance of proper fitting and the advancements in contact lens technology. Dr. Corte provides practical tips for eye care professionals to enhance patient satisfaction and encourages them to actively offer toric lenses to patients who may benefit from them.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Toric Contact Lens Challenges

02:48 Understanding Astigmatism and Patient Misconceptions

06:06 Opportunities in Fitting Contact Lenses for Astigmatism

09:04 Clinical Pearls for Successful Toric Lens Fitting

11:57 Advancements in Astigmatism Contact Lens Technology

14:46 Call to Action for Optometrists

Takeaways

• Many patients are misinformed about their candidacy for contact lenses.
• Astigmatism should not be a barrier to contact lens wear.
• Proper fitting techniques can significantly improve patient satisfaction.
• Toric lenses are often underutilized in practice.
• Understanding lens parameters is crucial for successful fittings.
• Advancements in contact lens technology are expanding options for patients.
• Patient education is key to overcoming misconceptions.
• Eye care professionals should actively promote toric lenses.
• Daily disposable options are beneficial for patients with astigmatism.
• Building patient loyalty can lead to increased referrals.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Angelica Cifuentes, an optometrist from Miami, Florida. They discuss Dr. Cifuentes' journey into optometry, her experiences in optometry school, and her growth on social media as 'Tiny Optometrist.' The conversation highlights the importance of diverse pathways in the profession, the value of hands-on experience, and the significance of advocacy and community involvement. Dr. Cifuentes shares her entrepreneurial venture in dry eye care and emphasizes the importance of authenticity and believing in oneself.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Angelica Cifuentes

02:19 Journey to Optometry: Early Influences and Discoveries

06:28 The Diversity of Optometry: Exploring Career Paths

11:47 Education at Nova: Pursuing a Dream School

17:36 Building a Social Media Presence: The Tiny Optometrist

20:23 Overcoming Challenges: The Non-Traditional Path to Optometry

22:55 Journey to Optometry: A Unique Path

24:55 Navigating Residency Decisions

27:43 Transitioning into the Real World of Optometry

30:02 Private Practice vs. Commercial Optometry

33:01 Entrepreneurial Spirit: Launching a Dry Eye Business

36:12 Balancing Personal Life and Professional Growth

37:24 Advocacy and Community Engagement in Optometry

40:18 Authenticity in Social Media and Professional Life

43:52 Embracing Uncertainty: Future Aspirations

Takeaways

• Dr. Cifuentes' journey into optometry was influenced by her brother's eye issue.
• She discovered her passion for optometry while shadowing a mentor.
• Hands-on experience in the optical field helped her excel in optometry school.
• Social media became an outlet for her during the stress of school.
• Being a non-traditional student shaped her perspective on education and career.
• She values flexibility in her work environment as an optometrist.
• Advocacy for the profession is a key part of her identity.
• Her entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of a dry eye e-commerce business.
• Community involvement is essential for promoting optometry to younger generations.
• Authenticity and sharing personal stories resonate with her audience.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the fitting and prescribing of multifocal contact lenses, focusing on strategies to serve presbyopic patients effectively. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient base, utilizing fitting guides, and making necessary adjustments to ensure patient satisfaction and drive referrals. The conversation highlights the significance of daily multifocal lenses and the need for optometrists to be confident in their fitting techniques.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Multifocal Contact Lenses

02:59 Understanding the Presbyopic Patient Demographic

06:16 Mindset Shift for Successful Multifocal Fitting

12:56 Practical Multifocal Fitting Techniques and Adjustments

16:14 Driving Patient Multifocal Satisfaction and Referrals

Takeaways

• Multifocal contact lenses are essential for presbyopic patients.
• Understanding the patient base is crucial for effective fitting.
• Daily disposable multifocal lenses offer the best comfort and health.
• Following the manufacturer's fitting guide is key to success.
• Patient education on realistic expectations is important.
• Adjustments may be necessary for optimal vision.
• Encouraging patient feedback helps refine fitting techniques.
• Good lighting and display settings enhance vision with multifocals.
• Building confidence in fitting multifocals can drive referrals.
• Satisfaction in fitting leads to better patient retention.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of daily disposable contact lenses in optometry. He explores the benefits of these lenses, including health, convenience, and comfort, while addressing common patient concerns and compliance issues. Dr. Corte emphasizes the need for optometrists to transition patients to daily disposables and highlights the importance of innovation in contact lens technology to enhance patient care and satisfaction.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

03:02 The Benefits of Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

08:06 Drawbacks of 2 Week and Monthly Disposable Contact Lenses

09:33 Getting Patients Into Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

14:08 The Importance of Innovation in Contact Lenses

Takeaways

• Daily disposable lenses are the healthiest and safest option for patients.
• Convenience is a major selling point for daily disposables.
• Fresh lenses every day enhance comfort and reduce complications.
• Patient compliance is crucial for successful contact lens wear.
• Transitioning patients to daily disposables can increase practice revenue.
• Addressing patient concerns about lens wear is essential.
• Daily disposables are ideal for part-time wearers and those with allergies.
• Educating patients on the benefits of daily disposables is key.
• Innovative contact lens options can improve patient satisfaction.
• Practices must prioritize fitting and prescribing daily disposables.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Gloria Chiu, an experienced optometrist in a hospital-based setting. They discuss Dr. Chiu's journey into optometry, her passion for specialty contact lenses, and the importance of networking and mentorship in building a successful career. Dr. Chiu shares insights on demonstrating value in the profession, advocating for dry eye awareness, and her aspirations for the future. The conversation emphasizes the significance of persistence, learning from failures, and the impact of community involvement in shaping a fulfilling career in optometry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Gloria Chiu

04:05 Journey into Optometry: Early Inspirations

06:54 Education and Research: The Path to Residency

10:02 Overcoming Rejection: The Power of Persistence

12:50 Specialty Contact Lenses: A Passion Unfolds

15:28 Building a Career: From Residency to First Job

19:40 Establishing a New Clinic: Challenges and Triumphs

23:37 Demonstrating Value: Billing and Patient Care

27:36 Advocacy and Community Engagement

31:10 Future Aspirations: Goals and Reflections

Takeaways

• Dr. Gloria Chiu has been in her position for 16 years, showcasing career stability.
• Her journey into optometry began in high school due to her own vision issues.
• Networking and mentorship played a crucial role in her career advancement.
• She emphasizes the importance of understanding billing and coding in optometry.
• Dr. Chiu advocates for dry eye awareness and research funding.
• She believes in the value of persistence and learning from failures.
• Her experience highlights the importance of patient care and building relationships.
• Dr. Chiu encourages new graduates to track their contributions and value.
• She aims to become a professor of ophthalmology in the next five years.
• Advocacy and community involvement are key components of her professional life.