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.

Dr. Ryan Corte talks with Dr. Katie Chu who shares her inspiring journey from being the first generation born in the U.S. in her immigrant family to becoming a dedicated optometrist serving her community. She discusses the pivotal moments in her life, including her decision to pursue optometry, the influence of her family, and her spiritual awakening that transformed her approach to patient care. Dr. Chu also talks about her plans for a part-time life in Hawaii, her recent transition to joining Vision Source, and her commitment to leaving a legacy in her community. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of embracing one's true self and living boldly with faith.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katie Chu's Journey

03:29 Cultural Heritage and Family Legacy

06:16 Following the Heart: A Career Shift

09:19 The Impact of Family and Spirituality

13:28 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

16:12 Transitioning to a New Phase of Career

19:21 Vision for a Part-Time Life in Hawaii

21:38 Joining Vision Source: New Opportunities

25:08 Legacy and Community Impact

28:13 The Future of Independent Optometry

31:15 Living Through Faith and Spirituality

Takeaways

• Dr. Katie Chu is the first generation born in the U.S. in her family.
• She initially wanted to be a biology teacher but followed her heart into optometry.
• Her personal life experiences, including marriage and motherhood, shaped her journey.
• A spiritual awakening led her to realize the importance of patient care.

• Joining Vision Source has provided her with resources for her career transition.
• She emphasizes the importance of leaving a legacy for her community.
• Independent optometry continues to flourish despite challenges from corporate entities.
• Dr. Chu encourages others to embrace their true selves and live boldly.
• Her faith plays a significant role in her personal and professional life.

Dr. Ryan Corte speaks with Dr. Nicolas Vu and Dr. Elizabeth Davis about their incredible journey traveling the world for a year after completing their optometry education. They share their experiences teaching at an optometry school in Vietnam, the challenges and rewards of their travels, and the personal growth they experienced along the way. The conversation emphasizes the importance of pursuing one's passions, the value of international education, and the transformative power of travel.

Follow along with their story on Instagram @nickandelle

Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

06:17 The Gap Year Experience

11:17 The Decision to Travel

16:04 Planning the Year Abroad

21:24 Teaching in Vietnam

26:27 Impact and Growth in Teaching

28:29 Innovative Approaches in Optometry Education

30:20 Personal Growth Through Experience

31:48 The Future of International Optometry Education

33:46 Documenting the Journey: Travel Adventures

35:48 Memorable Destinations and Unique Experiences

41:45 Encouragement for Aspiring Travelers

48:45 Lessons Learned from a Year Abroad

52:34 Reintegrating into Daily Life

55:44 Connecting with the Community

56:43 New Chapter

Takeaways

- Traveling for a year was a life-changing experience.

- Teaching in Vietnam allowed us to impact future optometrists.

- We learned a lot from our students and their eagerness to learn.

- Traveling helped us gain a new perspective on life.

- It's important to pursue your passions and dreams.

- We faced challenges but remained focused on our goals.

- The experience strengthened our relationship as a couple.

- We want to inspire others to travel and explore the world.

- Planning and saving are key to extended travel.

- Life is uncertain, so it's best to travel while you can.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Alma Regnault, who shares her inspiring journey from a small town in Venezuela to becoming a successful optometrist and business owner. She discusses the influence of strong women in her life, her experiences in optometry school, and the challenges she faced along the way.

Dr. Regnault emphasizes the importance of human connection in patient care and the need for optometrists to advocate for their role in healthcare. She also reflects on the evolution of the profession and the exciting future ahead, encouraging others to embrace change and pursue their passions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Alma Regnault's Journey

03:54 Inspiration from Strong Women

06:45 The Path to Optometry

10:00 Experiences in New York City

12:54 Transitioning to Geriatric Care

15:48 The Journey to Ownership

19:08 Full Circle: Returning Home

22:01 The Influence of Strong Women

25:52 The Journey of Collaboration and Growth

26:51 Balancing Family and Professional Life

30:40 Lessons from the Practice: Patient Care and Connection

34:45 Building a Respectful Practice Culture

36:57 Embracing Change: The Evolution of Optometry

40:13 Challenges Faced in the Optometric Journey

42:57 The Importance of Optometry in Health Care

45:56 Final Thoughts: Embracing Change and GrowthTakeaways

- Dr. Regnault was inspired by strong women in her family.

- She initially considered dentistry before choosing optometry.

- Her experience in Puerto Rico shaped her professional journey.

- She learned valuable lessons from her mentors in corporate optometry.

- Transitioning to medical optometry provided her with more flexibility.

- Dr. Regnault emphasizes the importance of human connection in patient care.

- She believes in the value of continuous learning and asking questions.

- Her journey to business ownership was filled with challenges and growth.

- She advocates for the role of optometrists in healthcare.

- Dr. Regnault encourages others to embrace change and pursue their passions.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Benjamin Lickteig, who shares his journey in optometry, from his early experiences in Iowa to his current multi-location practice in Massachusetts. They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the field, including navigating scope of practice, the importance of networking and mentorship, and innovative practices like myopia management and a four-day work week. Dr. Lickteig emphasizes the need for optometrists to adapt and grow in a changing healthcare landscape, while also highlighting the importance of building a supportive team and maintaining a work-life balance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Benjamin Lichtig

01:45 Journey into Optometry

03:31 Experience at Illinois College of Optometry

05:30 Navigating Scope of Practice in Massachusetts

07:29 Exploring Sublease Opportunities

11:16 Transitioning to a Sublease Model

15:39 Scaling the Practice

20:10 Challenges of Expanding to Multiple Locations

23:20 The Importance of Mentorship

24:24 Connecting with AllDocs and Networking

28:04 The Importance of Mentorship in Optometry

28:52 Engagement in Professional Organizations

31:19 Navigating Challenges During COVID-19

34:50 Tough Conversations in Business

38:08 Innovating Work-Life Balance: The Four-Day Work Week

43:38 Championing Myopia Management

49:53 Embracing Change and Continuous Improvement

51:03 The Future of Optometry: Opportunities Ahead

Takeaways

- Dr. Lickteig's journey began in a small Iowa town, shaping his desire for community connection in healthcare.

- The Illinois College of Optometry provided a robust clinical experience, preparing him for real-world challenges.

- Navigating scope of practice in Massachusetts presented initial challenges, but recent changes have improved opportunities.

- The sublease model in Massachusetts allowed for private practice opportunities that differ from other states.

- Scaling from one to two locations required building a supportive team and learning to delegate responsibilities.

- Networking and mentorship are crucial for growth and overcoming challenges in optometry.

- Involvement in the Optometry Advisory Council provided insights and connections during the COVID-19 pandemic.

- Transparent communication with staff is essential for maintaining a healthy work environment and addressing challenges.

- Implementing a four-day work week improved work-life balance for doctors and staff, enhancing job satisfaction.

- Myopia management has become a standard of care in Dr. Lickteig's practice, emphasizing proactive patient care.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Pam Theriot, an optometrist and dry eye specialist, who shares her journey through a dynamic career shaped by frequent relocations due to her husband's military service. Dr. Theriot discusses her passion for dry eye treatment, the evolution of ocular surface disease management, and her recent TEDx talk focused on digital eye strain. She emphasizes the importance of proactive eye care and introduces a three-step plan for maintaining eye health in a digital world. The conversation also highlights common ocular diseases related to digital strain and the need for regular eye exams.

Referenced resources

- Dr. Theriot's TEDx Talk

- Alleviate Dry Eye: Your 8 week plan to restore healthy eyes and clear vision

- Dr. Theriot’s free digital eye strain handout

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Pam Theriot

01:40 Pam's Journey in Optometry

06:16 The Evolution of Dry Eye Treatment

11:32 TEDx Talk on Digital Eye Strain

17:09 Three-Step Plan for Eye Health

24:21 Addressing Digital Eye Strain in the Workplace

Takeaways

- Dr. Theriot has been practicing optometry for 24 years.

- Frequent relocations shaped her adaptability and expertise.

- She developed a passion for dry eye treatment due to personal experiences.

- The treatment of ocular surface disease has evolved significantly in recent years.

- Dr. Theriot's TEDx talk focuses on digital eye strain and its impact.

- She emphasizes the importance of scheduling regular eye exams.

- A three-step plan for eye health includes Prepare, Perform, and Preserve.

- Common symptoms of digital eye strain include irritation and fluctuating vision.

- Employers can support eye health by facilitating breaks and providing resources.

- Awareness of ocular hygiene is crucial for maintaining eye health.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Ben Thayil, who shares his journey in optometry, the importance of residency, and the significance of leadership and culture in private practice. Dr. Thayil emphasizes the need for personal growth, patient-centric care, and creating a positive work environment for staff. He discusses the role of mentorship and the importance of defining success beyond financial metrics, focusing instead on significance and fulfillment in both personal and professional life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Ben Thayil

03:45 The Journey into Optometry

06:44 The Importance of Residency

09:41 Patient-Centric Care in Private Practice

12:41 Leadership and Staff Development During the Pandemic

15:56 Creating a Positive Workplace Culture

18:48 Personal Growth and Leadership Training

21:47 Defining Success and Significance

24:37 Future of Optometry and Personal Aspirations

34:52 New Chapter

Takeaways

- Dr. Thayil's journey to optometry began in second grade.

- Residency provided Dr. Thayil with clinical confidence.

- Patient care should always come first in practice.

- Creating a positive culture is essential for growth.

- Personal growth is crucial for leadership development.

- Mentorship plays a significant role in professional success.

- Defining success should include significance, not just financial gain.

- Work-life balance is dynamic and requires intentionality.

- Optometry is a fulfilling profession with many opportunities.

- The future of optometry depends on active participation in healthcare decisions.

Dr. Ryan Corte shares his personal journey into optometry, detailing the influences that shaped his aspirations, the challenges he faced during high school and college, and the pivotal moments that led him to choose optometry as a career. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, mentorship, and self-reflection in navigating the path to becoming an optometrist. If you're a pre-optometry student, this is a must watch!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Optometric Journey

06:36 Exploring Career Options in Healthcare

14:19 Navigating the Application Process

16:52 Key Takeaways from My Pre-Optometry Journey

Takeaways

- The journey to optometry is unique for everyone.

- Challenges in education can shape your career path.

- Standardized tests can be a significant hurdle.

- Mentorship plays a crucial role in professional development.

- Finding the right fit in a medical career is essential.

- Self-reflection is key to making informed decisions.

- Resilience is important when facing setbacks.

- Networking can open doors to new opportunities.

- Passion for patient care is vital in healthcare professions.

- Embrace the journey and learn from experiences.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Chris Lopez about the 2025 ODs on Finance report, discussing key findings related to optometry salaries, student loan debt, and the importance of financial education. They explore regional salary disparities, work-life balance, and the impact of gender on income. The conversation emphasizes the need for better financial literacy among optometrists and the potential benefits of practice ownership.

Download the full report here: https://odsonfinance.com/optometrist-income-report2025/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

02:25 Background of Dr. Chris Lopez

05:54 Insights from the 2025 ODs on Finance Report

09:24 Regional Salary Disparities in Optometry

12:31 Work-Life Balance and Income Expectations

16:12 The Need for Financial Education in Optometry Schools

19:11 Income Trends Based on Practice Modality

23:54 Rural vs Urban Practice Opportunities

27:03 Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Optometry

30:50 Trends in Female Practice Ownership

31:46 Empowerment Through Ownership

33:08 Income Disparities in Optometry

36:07 Average Net Worth of Optometrists

38:21 Impact of Practice Ownership on Financial Success

40:28 Understanding Financial Metrics in Optometry

42:26 Gender and Racial Disparities in Net Worth

44:44 Student Loan Debt and Financial Education

47:43 Navigating Student Loan Repayment Options

50:46 Investment Strategies for Financial Freedom

51:45 The Importance of Side Hustles

55:08 Job Satisfaction in Optometry

59:47 Financial Challenges Facing Optometrists

01:01:17 Final Thoughts on Financial Literacy in Optometry

Takeaways

- Dr. Chris Lopez shares his journey in optometry and the importance of financial education.

- The 2025 ODs on Finance report highlights significant disparities in optometry salaries based on region and practice modality.

- Student loan debt remains a critical issue for new optometrists, with many graduating with over $300,000 in debt.

- The average optometry salary is surprisingly high, but many optometrists struggle with retirement savings.

- Gender disparities in income persist, with female optometrists earning less than their male counterparts.

- Work-life balance is shifting, with many optometrists preferring four-day work weeks.

- The importance of understanding financial literacy and planning for financial freedom is emphasized.

- Investing in diverse assets is crucial for long-term financial health.

- Side hustles are not common among optometrists, but filling in extra days can be more lucrative.

- The conversation encourages optometrists to seek mentorship and resources for financial education.

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Harbir Sian, a multifaceted optometrist who navigates practice ownership, podcasting, and consulting. They discuss Harbir's journey, his role as an ambassador for the optometry profession, and the importance of balancing multiple responsibilities. Harbir shares valuable lessons learned from his experiences, the significance of being uncomfortable, and the exciting future of optometry, including scope expansion and mentorship.

Listen to The 20/20 Podcast!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Harbir Sian

01:40 The Journey into Optometry

05:42 Becoming an Ambassador for the Profession

08:52 Navigating Private Practice and Sublease Models

13:52 Balancing Multiple Responsibilities

18:31 Lessons in Support and Communication

24:11 Embracing Growth in Optometry

25:37 The Birth of a Podcast

30:09 Connecting with Influencers

30:53 Inspiring Stories from the Podcast

35:26 Pushing the Envelope in Optometry

39:03 Finding Fulfillment in Your Career

44:01 New Chapter

Takeaways

- Dr. Harbir Sian emphasizes the importance of being an ambassador for the optometry profession.

- He believes in the power of positivity and sharing growth mindset content.

- Balancing multiple roles in optometry requires effective prioritization.

- Having a strong support system is crucial for success.

- Being uncomfortable is essential for personal and professional growth.

- The podcast serves as a platform to discuss important issues in optometry.

- Continuous learning and searching for fulfillment are key to a satisfying career.

- Dr. Sian encourages others to embrace their unique journeys.

- He highlights the importance of open communication with support networks.

- The future of optometry relies on expanding scope and adapting to changes.