In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian speaks with Dr. Peter Rozanec, a Waterloo-trained optometrist, longtime Mississauga practitioner, and founder of the Canadian Optometry Group, Canada’s largest online community for optometrists.

Dr. Rozanec reflects on his 36-year career, from buying his first practice before graduation to becoming an early adopter of technology in optometry. He shares stories about the early days of the internet, building websites, purchasing LASIK-related domain names, launching an optometry podcast in 2009, and later creating COG as a national forum for Canadian ODs.

The conversation also explores the role of AI in optometry. Dr. Rozanec takes a balanced view, describing AI as a useful tool and “intelligence amplifier,” but not a replacement for optometrists. He emphasizes that clinicians still need strong foundational knowledge, critical thinking, and good judgment when using new technology.

The episode closes with advice for students and new grads: be confident, stay curious, keep reading, and remain grounded in science. Dr. Rozanec reminds listeners that optometry has always faced disruption, but the profession continues to adapt because people will always need people. 

3 Key Takeaways

1. AI will likely support optometrists, not replace them.

Dr. Rozanec believes AI will become a useful supplement in optometry, especially for tasks like documentation, transcription, and information processing. However, he cautions that AI still requires human judgment, clinical knowledge, and context.

2. Technology is most powerful when it improves human connection.

From early internet tools to future AI scribes, Dr. Rozanec’s view is that technology should free optometrists to spend more time with patients — not create more administrative burden. The ideal technology works quietly in the background.

3. Community matters, especially during times of uncertainty.

The Canadian Optometry Group has become a trusted space for Canadian ODs to exchange ideas, ask questions, and support each other. Dr. Rozanec highlights how professional communities become especially valuable during periods of disruption, such as COVID, political challenges, and industry change.

Join the Canadian Optometry Group:

canadianoptometrygroup.com

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, host Dr. Harbir Sian sits down live at the BCDO Conference with the one and only Dr. Richard Maharaj, widely known in Canadian optometry as the “Dry Eye Jedi.”

Dr. Maharaj is the Managing Partner of Optometry Services at Prism Eye Institute and one of the most respected voices in dry eye disease, ocular surface disease, chronic eye pain, and optometric research. But this conversation goes far beyond tear breakup time, MMP-9, meibography, and treatment algorithms.

Instead, Harbir and Richard explore the human side of clinical care: how we speak to patients, how we handle chronic pain, why patients often carry anxiety into the exam chair, and why clinicians need to pause before delivering information that may unintentionally create fear.

The episode dives deep into the biopsychosocial model of pain, the difference between pain and visible clinical signs, how to approach patients with symptoms that do not match what we see on the ocular surface, and why mental health support can be an important part of the care pathway.

Dr. Maharaj also shares emerging insights into the role of vitamin B, vitamin D, nutrition, corneal nerve health, oxidative stress, and ocular surface disease, including how B vitamins may support patients with chronic ocular pain and neurosensory symptoms.

This is a reflective, clinically rich, and deeply human conversation about dry eye, pain, gratitude, patient communication, and the responsibility optometrists have as trusted healthcare providers.

3 Key Takeaways

1. Chronic eye pain must be understood beyond the ocular surface

Dr. Maharaj explains that pain is not simply a direct reflection of visible tissue damage. In many patients, especially those with chronic ocular pain, the experience of pain is shaped by the brain, psychology, anatomy, and social context. Optometrists need to recognize that “normal-looking eyes” do not mean the patient’s symptoms are not real.

2. Patient communication can either calm or catastrophize

Patients often come into the exam room after consuming online information about dry eye, gland loss, or chronic disease. Dr. Maharaj encourages clinicians to avoid fear-based messaging and instead focus on measurable improvement, realistic timelines, reassurance, and clarity. Most patients improve, but they need to understand that progress is not always linear.

3. Nutrition may play a growing role in ocular surface disease

Dr. Maharaj discusses emerging research around vitamin B, particularly B12, in corneal nerve health, oxidative stress, and chronic pain. While topical treatments and procedures remain important, nutrition and supplementation may become an increasingly relevant part of dry eye and ocular surface management.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with internationally recognized dry eye expert and ophthalmologist Dr. Laura Periman from Seattle, Washington. Rather than focusing on rigid protocols or step-by-step treatment algorithms, the conversation zooms out to explore how clinicians should think about dry eye disease in an era of rapidly evolving science.

Dr. Periman explains why “dry eye” is an oversimplified label for an incredibly complex and multifactorial disease process involving inflammation, neurosensory dysfunction, pain pathways, microbiome disruption, blink mechanics, ocular surface disease, and more. She describes the field as a constantly expanding landscape where curiosity, innovation, and questioning old assumptions are essential.

The discussion dives into emerging innovations in dry eye care, including molecular therapies aimed at repairing corneal tissue, targeted approaches to recurrent corneal erosion, novel pain-signaling pathways, and therapies addressing neurosensory compromise. Dr. Periman shares insights from presenting recent dry eye innovations at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, highlighting how advances in the field are reshaping our understanding of ocular surface disease.

The conversation also explores personalized medicine in dry eye management. Rather than applying generic treatments, Dr. Periman advocates identifying the specific mechanistic contributors in each patient—whether that’s Demodex, rosacea, incomplete blinking, inflammation, dysbiosis, blepharitis, or neurosensory dysfunction—and selecting targeted interventions accordingly.

Finally, the episode touches on the growing importance of ocular surface optimization before refractive and cataract surgery. Dr. Periman discusses evidence suggesting that preoperative management with immunomodulators may improve surgical outcomes, patient satisfaction, and visual quality. She also challenges long-held beliefs about how quickly these therapies work, emphasizing the importance of revisiting old dogma as new evidence emerges.

At its core, this episode is a reminder that the best clinicians remain curious, question assumptions, and continually evolve alongside the science.

Key Moments

1. “Dry eye isn’t just dry eye.”

Dr. Periman reframes dry eye as an enormous umbrella term covering multiple overlapping disease mechanisms, emphasizing the need for deeper thinking beyond traditional categories.

2. The future of treatment is molecular and personalized.

The conversation explores emerging therapies targeting recurrent corneal erosion, connexin signaling, pain pathways, and tissue repair—pointing toward increasingly precise, individualized care.

3. Better surgical outcomes may start weeks before surgery.

Dr. Periman discusses evidence supporting pre-treatment of ocular surface inflammation prior to refractive and cataract procedures, potentially improving outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Guest Contact Information

Dr. Laura Periman

https://dryeyemaster.com/

Instagram: @dryeyemaster

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Dr. Julian Prosia and Dr. Kulvir Singh for a fiery conversation about dry eye care, industry relationships, specialty practice, and the ethical challenges facing modern optometry.

The episode explores the growing trend toward specialization in optometry, with both guests sharing how they’ve built careers heavily focused on dry eye treatment. Julian discusses balancing clinical practice with running Ophthalogix Canada, while Kulvir explains why focusing exclusively on dry eye care has improved both efficiency and patient outcomes.

The conversation quickly shifts into a deeper discussion around expensive clinical technology, KOL culture, and the pressure some practitioners feel after investing heavily in equipment. Harbir delivers a passionate warning about blindly trusting sales-driven recommendations, while Julian and Kulvir emphasize the importance of evidence-based medicine, transparency, and always prioritizing what is truly best for the patient.

A major theme throughout the episode is collaboration over competition. The group discusses the importance of OD-to-OD referrals, leaning on trusted colleagues, and recognizing that no single practitioner can master every niche within optometry. Their message is clear: when optometrists work together and put patients first, everyone wins. 

Key Takeaways

• Patient care must come before profitability. Expensive equipment and industry relationships should never dictate clinical decision-making.
• OD-to-OD referrals are a strength, not a weakness. Collaboration between colleagues ultimately creates better patient outcomes and stronger trust within the profession.
• Not all industry partnerships are created equal. Evidence-based medicine, transparency, and unbiased advice matter more than hype or financial incentives.

Guest Contact Info

Dr. Julian Prosia

• Founder: Ophthalogix Canada
• Instagram: @doctorprosia

Dr. Kulvir Singh

• Dry eye-focused optometrist based in the Greater Toronto Area
• Instagram: @the.tieclip.eyedoc

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

In this Eye2Eye episode, I wanted to do something more personal and reflective. I’m sharing a poem that I’ve come back to time and time again throughout my life: “If—” by Rudyard Kipling.

It’s one of those pieces that seems to hit differently depending on where I’m at. I’ve turned to it during tough moments when I’ve needed a reset, but also during the highs as a reminder to stay grounded and keep my ego in check. For me, it’s not just a poem... it’s a blueprint for how to navigate life with a bit more clarity and intention.

In this episode I want to take a few minutes to reflect on some of the lines that resonate most with me. Lines about staying calm when everything around you feels chaotic, trusting your instincts even when others doubt you, and learning to treat both success and failure as temporary states rather than defining moments.

There are also lessons about being willing to take big swings, knowing that sometimes you might have to start over—and the importance of pushing forward even when you feel like you’ve got nothing left in the tank.

At the end of the day, this episode is really just a reminder (to myself as much as to anyone listening) that growth doesn’t come from comfort. It comes from staying steady, doing the work, and continuing to show up, no matter where you are in your journey.

Key Takeaway

1. Leadership starts with composure

When things feel chaotic, your ability to stay calm and steady is what sets the tone for everyone around you.

2. Success and failure are both temporary

Treating triumph and disaster as “imposters” helps you stay grounded and focused on the long game.

3. Progress requires courage and persistence

Taking risks, starting over when needed, and pushing forward—especially when it’s hard—is what ultimately drives growth.

If this episode gave you something to think about, shoot me a DM, take a screenshot, share it on Instagram or LinkedIn, and send it to someone who might need this reminder today!

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Meenal Agarwal, a multi-practice owner, speaker, podcast host, and now author of the upcoming book Stuck in a Flat World. But more than her resume, this conversation is about perspective.

We go deep into something many of us have noticed in clinic but haven’t fully connected the dots on… why patients (especially kids) are changing. Less eye contact. More anxiety. Avoidance of driving. Difficulty engaging socially. We’ve blamed screens for years… but Meenal takes it further.

She introduces the concept of Spatial Awareness Processing Disorder (SAPD), a framework connecting excessive screen use to changes in how the brain processes space, fear, and human interaction. It’s a powerful lens that links optometry to broader neurological and mental health conversations.

But this episode isn’t just clinical… it’s personal.

Meenal opens up about:

• The drive (and trap) of constantly chasing growth
• Burnout and the search for fulfillment beyond business
• Rejection early in her speaking and podcast journey
• Being told she “wasn’t the right fit”—and pushing forward anyway
• A recent experience with online criticism and how the profession rallied behind her

This is a conversation about identity, resilience, and what it really means to show up—not just as an optometrist, but as a human being.

If you’ve ever questioned your direction, your value, or your voice in this profession… this one’s for you.

Key Moments

• Introducing SAPD – Connecting screen use, spatial awareness, and rising anxiety in patients
• Why behavior is changing – Kids avoiding driving, social interaction, and eye contact
• The “Costco effect” – Understanding sensory overload and spatial processing challenges
• From growth to burnout – Building multiple practices and realizing it wasn’t fulfilling
• Pushing through rejection – Starting a podcast and speaking career despite being told “no”

Memorable Quotes

“You can blame everybody else, but you need to believe in yourself.”

“If we feel our profession isn’t worthy, what are others going to think of us?”

“Don’t focus on the people who weren’t there. Be grateful for the ones who were.”

bout Dr. Meenal Agarwal

Dr. Meenal Agarwal is a Toronto-based optometrist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in modern eye care. She owns three practices, hosts the Uncover Your Eyes podcast, and is the author of the upcoming book Stuck in a Flat World, exploring the connection between screen use, brain function, and spatial awareness.

She is passionate about expanding the role of optometry within healthcare and advocating for a more holistic understanding of vision.

What You’ll Learn

• A new framework for understanding behavioral changes in patients
• The neurological link between vision, space, and anxiety
• Practical ways to support kids struggling with spatial processing
• How to push through rejection and build something meaningful
• Why communication and vulnerability matter in our profession

Connect with Dr. Meenal Agarwal

• Instagram: @drmeenalagarwal
• Podcast: Uncover Your Eyes
• Newsletter: Available via Instagram link in bio
• Book Waitlist: https://www.drmeenal.com/book-waitlist-entry

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

What if the biggest growth opportunity in your clinic isn’t new technology, better marketing, or more patients—but the person standing right beside you?

In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Dr. Romie Dhaliwal and optician-entrepreneur Arshdeep Manghera to unpack a topic that quietly shapes every eyecare practice: the relationship between optometrists and opticians.

Too often, that relationship sits somewhere between neutral and strained—defined by silos, hierarchy, and missed opportunities. But Romie and Arsh have built something different.

From a pivotal moment during pregnancy to a bold decision to co-own a practice, Romie shares how she stepped away from comfort and into uncertainty. Arsh brings a story rooted in persistence—building a relationship with a clinic owner over seven years before finally acquiring the opportunity to take over. Together, they transformed a 30-year-old optical into a modern, thriving practice that blends clinical care, retail excellence, and community connection.

But what makes their story truly compelling isn’t just the business success—it’s how they’ve achieved it.

By breaking down the traditional “front vs back” divide, they’ve created a seamless patient experience where clinical knowledge and optical expertise work hand-in-hand. Their collaboration allows for better patient education, stronger trust, and more effective treatment adoption—especially in areas like dry eye.

Beyond the clinic walls, they’ve reimagined what an optometry practice can be. From hosting comedy shows and wellness events to partnering with local businesses and community organizations, they’ve turned their space into a hub for connection. It’s not just about attracting patients—it’s about becoming part of the fabric of the neighborhood.

This conversation also explores the realities of ownership—structuring partnerships, navigating legal complexities, and building systems that support growth. And as they look ahead, Romie and Arsh are investing in branding, social media, and influencer collaborations to take their practice to the next level.

At its core, this episode is a reminder that growth doesn’t always come from doing more—it often comes from working better together.

Key Takeaways

• Collaboration between ODs and opticians can dramatically elevate both patient care and business growth
• Breaking down traditional roles leads to better communication, trust, and outcomes
• Community engagement is a powerful (and underused) marketing strategy
• Old-school networking still creates massive opportunities
• Growth starts when you step outside your comfort zone

Memorable Quotes

“If we’re not collaborating with each other, how can we collaborate with anyone else?”

“Working together has taken our patient care from neutral to above and beyond.”

“You either win or you learn—the worst they can say is no.”

“When you get too comfortable, you don’t grow.”

Connect with the Guests

[email protected]

@academyoptical

@drromiedhaliwal

@thetailoredoptician

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

AI isn’t coming to eye care… it’s already here. The real question is—are we ready to evolve with it?

In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with AI entrepreneur and optometrist Dr. Masoud Nafey to break down one of the most important—and misunderstood—topics in modern eye care: artificial intelligence.

From large language models like ChatGPT to emerging AI “agents,” Dr. Nafey explains how AI actually works in a practical, relatable way. The conversation explores where AI is already being used successfully in optometry—like front desk automation, scribes, and billing—and where expectations may still be unrealistic.

More importantly, this episode dives into the future of the profession. Will AI replace doctors? Or will it finally free us from admin work and allow us to focus on what matters most—human connection and patient care?

This isn’t a technical deep dive—it’s a strategic conversation about adaptability, mindset, and how eye care providers can position themselves to thrive in an AI-driven world.

Key Highlights

1. AI is Already Here (and Learning From You)

• Tools like ChatGPT improve every time we use them
• AI is trained on massive datasets and continuously refines its responses
• Even your corrections (“that’s not what I meant”) help train the system

2. The Biggest Opportunities in Eye Care Right Now

• Customer operations: AI answering phones, especially after hours
• AI scribes: Reducing charting burden and improving efficiency
• Billing & coding: Pattern recognition makes this a natural fit

The key: If it doesn’t save time, it won’t be adopted.

3. Diagnostics: Assistive, Not Replacement (Yet)

• AI is moving toward clinical decision support, not full diagnosis
• Emerging field: oculomics (AI analyzing imaging like OCTs)
• Future vision: AI flags concerns → doctor interprets + connects with patient

4. The Real Bottleneck Isn’t Technology—It’s Us

• Adoption = change management problem, not a tech problem
• Practices must evolve workflows—not expect AI to do everything instantly
• Providers must be willing to:
• Adjust behavior
• Invest in training
• Embrace imperfect early versions

5. The Future Practice Model Might Look Very Different

• Data collection + analysis → handled by AI
• Doctors → focused on consultation, decision-making, and empathy
• The value of eye care shifts from data gathering → human connection

Memorable Quotes

“If it requires a brain, AI can probably do it. If it requires human connection, that’s where we shine.”

“We signed up to be empathetic providers—not data collectors.”

“We’re in the middle of a revolution… we just don’t fully understand it yet.”

Key Takeaway

AI won’t replace optometrists—but optometrists who embrace AI may replace those who don’t.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

What if the role you’re meant to play right now… isn’t to find the light—but to be it?

In this Eye2Eye episode, Dr. Harbir Sian shares a deeply personal and reflective message inspired by a powerful moment of loss. After attending a funeral for a young father, Harbir reflects on the idea that each of us is on a “mission”—sometimes big, sometimes small—and in difficult moments, that mission may simply be to support others.

This episode introduces a meaningful shift in perspective: instead of waiting to “see the light at the end of the tunnel,” we can choose to be the light within it for others. Whether someone is navigating grief, stress, or personal challenges, the energy and presence we bring can help illuminate their path.

Drawing on the powerful Marianne Williamson quote about our “light,” Harbir challenges listeners to stop playing small, embrace their potential, and recognize that by shining brightly, they give others permission to do the same. Your presence—your energy—your willingness to show up fully… it matters more than you think.

Key Highlights

• Be the light in someone else’s darkest moments
• When people can’t see the “light at the end of the tunnel,” you can help illuminate their path by showing up with support, empathy, and presence.
• You are always on a mission—whether you realize it or not
• Sometimes your mission isn’t something grand—it’s simply being there for someone when they need it most.
• Stop playing small—your light impacts more people than you think
• By stepping into your full potential, you unconsciously inspire others to do the same and create a ripple effect beyond your immediate circle.

Memorable Quotes

• “Instead of waiting to see the light at the end of the tunnel… be the light in the middle of the tunnel.”
• “We’re all on a mission—sometimes it’s big, sometimes it’s just showing up for someone who needs you.”
• “When you let your light shine, you give other people permission to do the same.”

Call to Action

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need this message right now.

And I’d love to hear from you—when was a time you were the light for someone else, or someone was that light for you?

Send me a message on Instagram @harbirsian.od, email me, or share your thoughts on LinkedIn.

Let’s keep this conversation going—and let’s keep showing up for each other.

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

In this episode recorded live at Vision Expo in Orlando, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with two standout Canadian optometrists—Dr. Shaminder Dhaliwal and Dr. Kulvir Singh—for a candid, high-value conversation on building a modern optometry career.

This episode is packed with insight for both new grads and seasoned practitioners, covering everything from business ownership to developing a niche, getting involved in industry, and building influence in the profession.

Dr. Dhaliwal shares his journey into private practice ownership, including the realities of taking risks, navigating uncertainty, and learning on the fly. He emphasizes that ownership is not the only path to success—and that fulfillment comes from aligning your career with what truly matters to you.

Dr. Singh dives into how he built a specialty in dry eye, highlighting the importance of networking, learning from others’ mistakes, and taking small, consistent steps toward expertise. He reinforces that becoming “the expert” doesn’t start with equipment—it starts with intention and curiosity.

A major theme throughout the episode is the power of relationships—with colleagues, mentors, and industry partners. The conversation challenges the common perception of industry as purely transactional, reframing it instead as collaborative, educational, and full of opportunity.

Ultimately, this episode is about taking action—whether that’s starting a business, building a niche, creating content, or simply having your first conversation with someone in the field. The message is clear: you don’t need to have everything figured out—you just need to start.

Key Highlights

1. There is no single “right” path in optometry

Ownership, associateship, industry, and education are all valid paths

Success comes from aligning your career with what you actually want

Don’t let external pressure dictate your decisions

2. Networking is the foundation of growth

Career-defining opportunities often come from conversations, not courses

“Have a coffee” is more valuable than passive shadowing

One connection can change your entire trajectory

3. Start before you feel ready

There is no perfect timing—action creates clarity

Whether it’s business ownership or building a niche, just begin

Small steps build confidence and momentum

4. Learn faster by leveraging others’ experience

Learning from others’ mistakes accelerates growth

Conferences = “hallway CE” and real-world insights

Every expert does things differently—find your own lane

5. Build relationships with industry (authentically)

Industry partnerships open doors to opportunities and innovation

Early exposure to trends and products gives you an edge

Authenticity is key—only align with what you truly believe in

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/