Dr. Ryan Corte shares his personal journey through optometry school at Ohio State University. He discusses the decision-making process for choosing a school, the importance of living arrangements, the pressures of academic life, and the value of getting involved in extracurricular activities. Dr. Corte emphasizes the significance of mental health support, collaboration with peers, and leadership opportunities that shaped his experience. He reflects on the challenges and growth he experienced throughout his time in optometry school, culminating in his clinical rotations and preparation for a professional career.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Optometry Journey

01:46 Choosing Ohio State University College of Optometry

04:58 Living Arrangements and Campus Life

06:47 Navigating Academic Pressure and Relationships

10:19 Getting Involved and Leadership Opportunities

14:03 Mental Health and Academic Challenges

17:43 Leadership Growth and Professional Development

20:52 Fourth Year Experiences and Clinical Rotations

23:01 Reflections on the Optometry School Journey

Takeaways

• The journey from optometry school to clinical practice is significant.
• Choosing the right optometry school can impact your career and finances.
• Living arrangements can affect your academic success and social life.
• Getting involved in clubs and leadership roles enhances the educational experience.
• Balancing academic pressure with personal life is crucial for success.
• Mental health support is essential during the rigorous demands of optometry school.
• Building relationships with classmates can provide necessary support.
• Leadership opportunities can shape your professional identity and growth.
• Clinical rotations are vital for real-world experience and skill development.
• Reflecting on your journey can help others in their optometry path.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the significance of attending in-person optometry meetings despite the convenience of online continuing education. He shares four key reasons for attending these meetings: the value of genuine networking, the benefits of hands-on learning, the potential for practice growth, and the opportunity to recharge and reconnect with one's passion for the profession. Dr. Corte emphasizes that in-person interactions foster deeper connections and provide unique learning experiences that cannot be replicated online.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of In-Person Meetings

05:47 Hands-On Learning Experiences

08:11 Practice Growth Through Collaboration

11:53 Recharging and Renewing Passion for Optometry

Takeaways

• In-person meetings foster genuine human interaction and networking.
• Hands-on learning experiences are crucial for skill development.
• Attending meetings can lead to significant practice growth.
• Networking in person can lead to impactful conversations and ideas.
• In-person interactions help build lasting professional relationships.
• The limitations of online education highlight the need for in-person experiences.
• Recharging at conferences can reignite passion for the profession.
• Real growth in optometry requires consistent engagement in learning.
• Meeting with industry representatives in person enhances understanding.
• Social interactions at conferences can lead to valuable insights.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Anith Pillai, who shares his journey from engineering to becoming a successful optometrist and practice owner. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the challenges of starting a private practice, and the rewarding experiences of patient interactions, particularly in specialty eye care. Dr. Pillai emphasizes the need for passion in the profession and the importance of supporting the optometric community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Anith Pillai

03:17 Journey to Optometry: From Engineering to Eye Care

08:26 Discovering Passion: The Love for Patient Interaction

12:10 Mentorship and Professional Growth in Optometry

15:29 Early Career Experiences and the Path to Private Practice

20:41 Navigating Challenges: COVID-19 and Business Growth

22:25 Specialization in Optometry: Finding Your Niche

26:50 The Journey to Specialization

32:43 Challenges of Starting a Private Practice

39:20 Transformative Patient Interactions

45:03 Future Aspirations and Mentorship

47:48 Final Thoughts and Community Support

Takeaways

• Dr. Pillai emphasizes the importance of juggling personal and professional life, especially with a newborn.
• His journey to optometry was influenced by a passion for patient interaction rather than just numbers and engineering.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in shaping his career and perspective on supporting the profession.
• Building a multi-location specialty practice requires dedication and a clear vision.
• The early years of private practice were challenging, with financial struggles and uncertainty.
• Dr. Pillai highlights the significance of impactful patient interactions, especially with children in ortho-K.
• He encourages optometrists to reach out for mentorship and support within the community.
• The journey to success in private practice can take time, and it's important to be patient and persistent.
• Dr. Pillai advocates for supporting optometric associations to protect the profession's privileges.
• He expresses a desire to educate others about specialty eye care and to remain accessible to colleagues.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Fallon Patel, an optometrist with a thriving multi-location practice in Canada. Dr. Patel shares her journey from being an immigrant child to becoming a successful optometrist, discussing her educational background, early career challenges, and the transition from Sears Optical to Lenscrafters. She emphasizes the importance of leadership, team development, and innovative practices in myopia management. Dr. Patel also highlights the need for better business education in optometry schools and her commitment to giving back to the profession.

Books referenced

• Who Not How
• 10x Is Easier than 2x

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Fallon Patel

02:32 Dr. Patel's Background and Heritage

07:56 Pathway to Optometry: Influences and Decisions

10:59 Experience at Waterloo and Early Career

14:31 Differences in Training: Canada vs. U.S.

18:55 Transitioning to Practice: Early Challenges

21:26 Overcoming Setbacks: The Sears Closure Experience

23:28 Transitioning from Sears to Lenscrafters

26:46 The Value of Being Part of a Bigger Network

29:03 Learning and Growing Through Challenges

31:51 Hiring the Right People for Growth

34:08 Leveraging Technology for Business Success

40:41 Championing Myopia Management

44:52 Leadership and Giving Back to the Community

Takeaways

• Dr. Fallon Patel's journey reflects resilience and determination.
• The importance of family support in overcoming challenges.
• Optometry education should include business acumen training.
• Leadership is about empowering the right people in your team.
• Myopia management requires a variety of treatment options.
• Transitioning from corporate to private practice can be challenging.
• Building a multi-location practice involves continuous learning.
• Networking and mentorship are crucial for professional growth.
• AI and technology can enhance practice management and patient care.
• Sharing knowledge within the optometry community is essential for growth.

In a conversation with Ankit Patel on the Optometrists Building Empires podcast, Dr. Ryan Corte shares his journey in optometry, emphasizing the importance of patience, flexibility, and resilience in building a successful practice. He discusses the challenges of managing staff, the significance of recruitment, and the impact of technological advancements in the field. Dr. Corte reflects on formative experiences that shaped his career and offers advice to aspiring optometrists, highlighting the need for preparation and a positive mindset. The discussion also touches on the future of optometry and the role of primary eye care providers in healthcare.

Chapters

00:00 Building an Optometry Empire

04:40 The Importance of Patience and Flexibility

09:37 Navigating Staffing Challenges

14:49 Scaling Practices and Managing Growth

19:45 The Future of Optometry and Technology

24:55 Personal Growth and Life Lessons

29:36 Finding Balance and Enjoying Life

34:48 New Chapter

Takeaways

• Patience is crucial in the journey of building a practice.
• Flexibility and resilience are necessary to navigate challenges.
• Opportunities often arise when you are prepared and patient.
• Understanding the business side of optometry is essential for success.
• Managing staff requires a balance of patience and decisiveness.
• Centralizing operations can improve efficiency and patient care.
• Recruitment is an ongoing challenge in the optometry field.
• Technological advancements are transforming patient care in optometry.
• Formative experiences can shape your approach to leadership and management.
• Maintaining a positive mindset is key to overcoming obstacles.

In this episode, Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Kriti Bhagat, who shares her journey into optometry, the cultural expectations she faced, and her passion for specialty contact lenses. Dr. Bhagat discusses her experiences in residency, the transition from academia to clinical practice, and the challenges of opening her own private practice. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, navigating work-life balance, and the rewarding aspects of patient care. Dr. Bhagat encourages future optometrists to explore the diverse opportunities within the profession and to prioritize their well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Kriti Bhagat

01:57 Journey into Optometry

05:10 Cultural Expectations and Career Choices

09:28 The Decision to Pursue Residency

11:15 Experiences During Residency

14:36 Transitioning from Academia to Clinical Practice

18:55 Challenges and Opportunities in Career Moves

22:58 Establishing a Private Practice

23:25 Building a Specialty Practice

24:31 The Decision to Open a Practice

26:24 Navigating the Challenges of Starting Up

27:48 Finding Support and Mentorship

30:01 The Rewards of Autonomy in Practice

31:41 Understanding Legislative Impacts on Optometry

34:53 Transformative Patient Encounters

37:41 Balancing Multiple Roles in Optometry

39:38 Navigating Burnout and Work-Life Balance

44:00 The Endless Possibilities in Optometry

Takeaways

• Dr. Kriti Bhagat emphasizes the importance of mentorship in her journey.
• Cultural expectations can shape career choices in healthcare professions.
• Residency can open many doors and provide valuable experiences.
• The transition from academia to clinical practice can be challenging yet rewarding.
• Opening a private practice allows for greater autonomy in patient care.
• Networking and community support are crucial when starting a new practice.
• Work-life balance is essential to prevent burnout in healthcare professionals.
• Reading and continuous learning can help manage stress and improve skills.
• Optometry offers diverse career paths beyond traditional roles.
• Patients appreciate personalized care and attention in their treatment.

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Will To, he shares his experiences navigating chaos in his optometry practice, including a robbery and subsequent challenges like a fire and flooding. He emphasizes the importance of mental health support for his staff and the role of tele-optometry in providing care to underserved communities. Dr. To reflects on defining moments in his practice that highlight the importance of patient care over business decisions, ultimately advocating for a compassionate approach in the healthcare profession.

Chapters

00:00 Networking in Optometry

01:18 Navigating Chaos: The Robbery Incident

13:49 Dealing with Multiple Challenges

19:50 Navigating Challenges in Practice Ownership

26:22 Telehealth: Bridging Gaps in Optometry

32:41 Inspiration and Future Goals

Takeaways

• Navigating chaos requires quick thinking and decisive action.
• Safety and mental well-being are paramount in the workplace.
• Telehealth can bridge gaps in healthcare access, especially in rural areas.
• Defining moments shape who we are as practitioners and individuals.
• Compassionate care should always take precedence over business profits.
• Community support is crucial in overcoming challenges.
• It's important to address the emotional aftermath of traumatic events.
• Building a resilient team involves open communication and support.
• Optometry can play a vital role in underserved communities through telehealth.
• Paying it forward is essential in the healthcare profession.

Dr. Will To shares his journey in optometry, from his early days as an optician to becoming a successful practice owner. He emphasizes the importance of experience in various roles within the field, the impact of AI on optometry, and the significance of networking and mentorship. Dr. To also discusses his unique approach to practice ownership, focusing on creating a concierge experience for patients and the importance of team dynamics in a successful practice.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Will To

07:01 The Importance of Diverse Experience in Optometry

12:29 The Role of AI in Optometry

20:30 Transitioning from Traveling to Practice Ownership

26:49 Networking in Optometry

Dr. Erik Mothersbaugh shares his journey in optometry, from his early interest in the field to his current role as Dean of Student Affairs at the Illinois College of Optometry. He discusses the unique opportunities at ICO, the transition from student to resident, and the responsibilities of being in academia. Erik reflects on the challenges facing the optometry profession, including the applicant pool and the role of the NBEO, while also sharing valuable lessons learned from mentors. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity and making informed decisions in one's career.

The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Eric Mothersbaugh

03:01 The Journey to Optometry: Discovering Passion

06:46 Choosing ICO: A Unique Educational Experience

10:23 Transitioning from Student to Resident

14:10 Entering Academia: The Path to Faculty

16:48 Life in Academia: Expectations and Responsibilities

19:18 Climbing the Ranks: Becoming Dean of Student Affairs

22:42 Lessons Learned: Advice from Mentorship

24:28 Navigating the Applicant Pool Challenges

31:28 Reflections on the NBEO and Its Impact

36:09 Future Aspirations and Goals

38:03 Memorable Moments from Residency

39:26 Final Thoughts and Connecting with Dr. Mothersbaugh

Takeaways

• Erik's journey to optometry was fueled by a desire to serve humans.
• He found ICO's unique opportunities for clinical education compelling.
• The experience of serving an underserved community was rewarding.
• Transitioning from residency to academia was a significant step for Erik.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in Erik's career development.
• The optometry applicant pool is becoming increasingly competitive.
• Erik advocates for more outreach to attract future optometrists.
• The NBEO faces challenges in maintaining accountability and transparency.
• Erik emphasizes the importance of curiosity in professional growth.
• He aims to improve the student experience at ICO for future generations.

Dr. Ryan Corte, Dr. Nadia Afkhami, Dr. Jasdeep Soni, Dr. Doug Akidi, and the newly minted Dr. Svetlana Nunez discuss the challenges and experiences of transitioning from students to practicing doctors. They share insights on navigating the unknowns of early career stages, understanding contracts and compensation, managing financial stress from student loans, and the importance of community support. The discussion also touches on the journey to owning a practice and the role of podcasts in sharing knowledge and experiences within the optometry field.

Check out The Depth Perception podcast here!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

03:14 Transitioning from Student to Doctor

06:03 Navigating the Unknown as a New Graduate

09:02 Understanding Contracts and Compensation Structures

12:04 Financial Stress and Student Loans

23:14 Balancing Life as a New Grad

27:31 Managing Student Loans and Financial Planning

30:30 The Importance of Financial Awareness in Early Career

32:53 Navigating Private Practice Ownership

39:18 Balancing Career and Family Life

44:57 Defining Moments in Professional Growth

48:45 The Purpose of Podcasting in Optometry

53:36 New Chapter

Takeaways

• The transition from student to doctor can be both exciting and daunting.
• New graduates often feel unprepared for real-world challenges in optometry.
• Building a supportive community is crucial for new ODs.
• Understanding contracts and compensation structures is essential for career success.
• Financial stress from student loans is a common concern among new graduates.
• Balancing personal life and career is a significant challenge for many professionals.
• Owning a practice requires careful planning and understanding of the business.
• Podcasts can serve as valuable resources for sharing knowledge and experiences in optometry.
• Embracing discomfort is part of the growth process in any career.

• Knowing your worth and advocating for yourself is vital in negotiations.