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.

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of contact lens evaluation fees and how to effectively communicate their value to patients. He emphasizes the necessity of annual evaluations for contact lens wearers, the benefits of contact lenses, and the importance of educating patients about eye health. Dr. Corte also shares strategies for addressing patient concerns regarding fees and the significance of being transparent and empathetic in communication.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Contact Lens Evaluations

03:57 Understanding Contact Lens Fitting Fees

07:00 Patient Education and Communication Strategies

09:45 Addressing Patient Concerns with Empathy

12:25 Optimizing Patient Experience and Care

Takeaways

• Contact lens evaluations are essential for safe and healthy wear.
• Patients often misunderstand the necessity of fitting fees.
• Annual evaluations help prevent serious eye health issues.
• Technological advancements in contact lenses improve patient experience.
• Empathy is key when addressing patient concerns about fees.
• Transparent communication about fees enhances patient trust.
• Stable prescriptions are a positive sign for eye health.
• Educating patients on new contact lens options is crucial.
• Fitting contact lenses requires additional expertise and time.
• Practitioners should always prioritize patient education and care.

In part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Adam Ramsey, he shares his journey through the challenges of starting his career in optometry, the struggles of practice ownership, and the importance of creating a unique patient experience. He reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, emphasizing the need for resilience and transparency in both personal and professional life. Dr. Ramsey also discusses the significance of mentorship and the value of sharing one's story to inspire others.

Get Dr. Adam Ramsey's Book, ⁠Play Chess, Not Checkers⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Adam Ramsey

00:52 Early Career Challenges and Opportunities

13:09 Creating a High-Quality Patient Experience

18:16 The Journey of Writing a Book and Starting a Podcast

22:08 Lessons Learned from Challenges and Perseverance

Takeaways

• Dr. Ramsey faced significant challenges early in his career, including job loss and financial struggles.
• He emphasizes the importance of resilience and hard work in overcoming obstacles.
• Creating a unique patient experience is a priority for Dr. Ramsey, influenced by his own high standards.
• He believes in investing in staff experiences to elevate patient care.
• Dr. Ramsey's journey highlights the unpredictability of career paths in optometry.
• He stresses the importance of mentorship and learning from others' experiences.
• Transparency in sharing struggles can help others feel less alone in their challenges.
• Dr. Ramsey's book aims to guide new optometrists in opening their practices.
• He acknowledges the need for patience and understanding in the growth process.
• Dr. Ramsey advocates for authenticity in social media to combat unrealistic comparisons.

In part 1 of our conversation, Dr. Adam Ramsey shares his journey from Trinidad to becoming a successful optometrist. He discusses the importance of work ethic, representation in the profession, and the challenges faced by new graduates. Dr. Ramsey also highlights the creation of Black Eye Care Perspective, a platform aimed at increasing diversity in optometry and supporting future optometrists. Throughout the discussion, he reflects on personal growth, the significance of mentorship, and the need to expose students to the optometry profession early.

Get Dr. Adam Ramsey's Book, Play Chess, Not Checkers

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Dr. Adam Ramsey

03:44 Journey to Optometry: Discovering Passion and Purpose

06:36 Reflections on Personal Growth and Responsibility

09:49 Health, Wellness, and Work-Life Balance

12:48 The Path to Optometry School: A Journey of Self-Discovery

15:49 Navigating Optometry School: Challenges and Experiences

18:46 The Importance of Work Ethic in Optometry

21:48 The Changing Landscape of Optometry Employment

24:42 Choosing Optometry School: A Personal Decision

27:45 Diversity in Optometry: Experiences and Initiatives

34:11 Understanding the Needs of African-American Patients

35:13 Increasing Representation in Optometry

38:14 Celebrating Success in Mentorship and Education

40:36 Navigating Challenges in Funding and Support

Takeaways

• Dr. Adam Ramsey shares his journey from Trinidad to becoming an optometrist.
• The importance of loving the grind and hustle in the optometry business.
• Navigating the challenges of being an only child and a single-parent household.
• The significance of work ethic in shaping the future of optometry graduates.
• Dr. Ramsey's experience as the only black male in his optometry school.
• The need for representation in the optometry profession.
• Building a supportive community through Black Eye Care Perspective.
• The impact of COVID-19 on diversity initiatives in optometry.
• The importance of exposing students to the optometry profession early.
• Reflections on personal growth and the journey of helping others succeed.

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.