Ryan Reflects with Dr. Ryan Corte | Optometry Podcast

Dr. Ryan Corte and Dr. Chris Lopez analyze the 2026 Optometry Income Report, discussing income trends, practice ownership, net worth, student debt, and career satisfaction within optometry.

Access the full report here.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the 2026 Optometry Income Report

02:58 Key Insights from the Income Report

06:13 Income Stability and Growth in Optometry

08:59 The Potential for Financial Success in Ownership

12:01 Net Worth and Retirement Savings Concerns

15:12 The Importance of Financial Discipline

17:59 Student Loan Debt Challenges

20:59 Side Hustles in Optometry

24:11 Career Satisfaction in Optometry

27:02 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

Key topics

• Optometry income trends and median salary
• Practice ownership vs. associate income potential
• Student loan debt and retirement savings
• Career satisfaction and industry outlook
• Opportunities for growth and entrepreneurship

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Don Railsback, an optometrist and entrepreneur, to explore his journey from private practice to vision plan innovator and the birth of Vision Care Direct. They discuss the evolution of optometry, challenges in healthcare, and strategies for thriving in a changing industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Don Railsback

03:27 The Journey from Optometry to Vision Plans

07:31 Navigating Career Changes and Challenges

11:28 The Importance of Mentorship in Optometry

13:32 Challenges in the Optometry Profession

19:27 The Future of Vision Care and Legislative Changes

24:12 Evaluating Vision Plans and Provider Impact

27:26 The 'Cook or Be Cooked' Philosophy

30:16 The Importance of State Associations

34:05 Navigating Market Changes and Vision Plans

39:29 Developing a Unique Model for Optometry

43:32 Empowering Future Generations of Optometrists

Key Topics

• The journey from private practice to vision plan innovator
• Challenges faced by optometrists in a changing healthcare landscape
• Strategies for independent optometrists to thrive amidst industry consolidation

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of measuring axial length in myopia management, how to incorporate it into clinical practice, and the benefits of using biometers for tracking eye growth over time.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Myopia and Axial Length

02:48 The Importance of Tracking Axial Length

04:24 Integrating Axial Length Measurements in Practice

07:06 Utilizing Technology for Myopia Management

10:08 Choosing the Right Equipment for Axial Length Measurement

12:56 Future of Myopia Management in Optometry

Takeaways

• Axial length tells you where the eye is heading, refraction shows where it is today.
• Measuring axial length helps predict and manage myopia progression.
• Contact biometers are cost-effective and space-efficient tools for practices.
• Tracking eye growth over time educates parents and improves treatment decisions.

Resources

• DGH Scanmate A Contact Biometer: https://www.dghtech.com/products/scanmate-a
• Oculus Myopia Master: https://www.oculus.com/medical/myopia-master/
• Topcon MYAH Biometer: https://www.topconmedical.com/products/myah

• Zeiss IOLMaster: https://www.zeiss.com/meditec/en/products/biometry/iolmaster.html
• Haag-Streit Lenstar: https://haag-streit.com/en/lenstar/

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of having an inclement weather policy for private practice owners, particularly in the field of optometry. He shares personal experiences navigating severe weather events and emphasizes the need for effective communication and operational guidelines to ensure patient safety and business continuity during unpredictable weather conditions. The conversation highlights the significance of preparing for natural disasters and the necessity of having clear policies in place to manage staff and patient expectations during such events.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Inclement Weather in Private Practice

10:18 Establishing Effective Communication and Policies

17:51 Resuming Operations Safely and Efficiently

Takeaways

• Having an inclement weather policy is crucial for private practices.
• Effective communication with staff and patients is essential during storms.
• Safety should always be the top priority for patient care.
• Operational guidelines help navigate unpredictable weather events.
• It's important to assess the situation dynamically as weather changes.
• Bringing patients in earlier can help manage schedules during storms.
• Clear policies on pay and time off are necessary for staff.
• Utilizing technology can enhance communication during emergencies.
• Resuming operations safely and efficiently is critical after a storm.
• Preparation is key to managing inclement weather in practice.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the introduction of Essilor's Stellest lenses, the first spectacle lens in the US proven to slow pediatric myopia progression. He explores the increasing prevalence of myopia, its risk factors, and the importance of proactive myopia management in optometry. Dr. Corte shares insights on how to effectively incorporate Stellest lenses into clinical practice, the science behind their design, and the benefits of myopia control. He emphasizes the need for patient education, proper billing practices, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and follow-up care for myopic patients.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Essilor's Stellest Lenses

01:05 Understanding Myopia and Its Risks

08:57 How Stellest Lenses Work

11:21 The Importance of Myopia Management

14:13 Implementing Myopia Control in Practice

19:52 Patient Education and Consent Forms

22:51 Best Practices for Myopia Management

Takeaways

• Essilor's Stellest lens is the first US spectacle lens proven to slow myopia progression.
• Myopia is increasingly recognized as a disease process rather than just a refractive error.
• The prevalence of myopia is rising, with significant implications for children's eye health.
• Proactive management and early detection of myopia are crucial for long-term outcomes.
• Screen time and lack of outdoor activity are significant risk factors for myopia in children.
• Stellest lenses offer a low-barrier treatment option for myopic children.
• Data shows Stellest lenses can slow myopia progression by 71%.
• Patient education is essential for successful myopia management.
• Implementing a structured myopia management protocol can enhance practice efficiency.
• The optometry profession has a unique opportunity to improve pediatric eye care through myopia management.

Ryan Corte, OD, reflects on the challenges and growth experienced throughout 2025, emphasizing the importance of reflection and learning. He shares insights from conversations with colleagues in the optometry field, highlighting the diverse paths within the profession and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. Looking ahead to 2026, Ryan expresses his commitment to providing valuable content and fostering community engagement among eye care professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Reflecting on 2025: A Year in Review

02:49 The Evolution of Optometry: Insights and Innovations

06:11 Navigating Challenges: Personal Journeys in Optometry

08:53 Embracing Change: The Future of Eye Care

12:07 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations for 2026

Takeaways

• Reflecting on the past year is crucial for personal growth.
• Optometry offers diverse career paths and opportunities.
• Embracing challenges can lead to resilience and strength.
• Community engagement is vital for the future of optometry.
• The profession is evolving with advancements like AI.
• Authenticity in sharing experiences fosters connection.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success.
• 2026 presents opportunities for intentional growth.
• Feedback from the community shapes future content.
• The journey in optometry is unique for everyone.

In a conversation with Dr. Chris Wolfe, Dr. Ryan Corte shares his journey from being a student at Ohio State to becoming a successful practice owner in Asheville, North Carolina. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he faced while transitioning from a residency to private practice, including the rebranding of his practice and the use of AI in the process. The discussion also delves into the differences between corporate and private practices, the impact of private equity on community practices, and the importance of building a legacy in optometry. Dr. Corte emphasizes the value of sharing knowledge through his podcast, 'Ryan Reflects', and the need for collaboration within the optometry community.

Chapters

00:00 Journey Through Optometry: From Student to Practice Owner

02:45 The Rebranding Experience: Intentionality and AI

05:46 Corporate vs. Private Practice: Perspectives on Patient Care

11:49 Navigating the LensCrafters Experience: Opportunities and Challenges

17:56 The Value of Community: Private Equity and Practice Transition

23:36 Building a Legacy: The Future of Optometry Practices

29:38 Podcasting for Change: Sharing Knowledge in Optometry

Takeaways

• Dr. Corte's journey from student to practice owner showcases growth and potential.
• Rebranding requires intentionality and can benefit from AI tools.
• Corporate practices can offer opportunities for high-level patient care.
• Private equity may not align with community-focused practice values.
• Building a legacy in optometry is crucial for community impact.
• Podcasting serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences.
• The importance of collaboration among optometrists is emphasized.
• Navigating the challenges of practice ownership requires strategic planning.
• AI can streamline processes in practice management and branding.
• Community service remains a core value in optometry.

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.