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PODCAST

EYE OWN A BUSINESS

What does your ideal optometry practice look like? Eye Own a Business is your go-to resource, whether you’re an established owner or aspiring optometrist. Hosted by Dr. Steve Vargo, this podcast offers expert insights to help you grow your practice, enhance patient care, and so much more. Follow us and keep dreaming big!

business entrepreneurship

All Episodes

45:40

You Can’t Be the Doctor and the Manager: Why EOS...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/06/17

In this episode, Steve interviews Dr. Garrett Whitmore, an OD who has successfully implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to manage his thriving, multi-location practice. Dr. Whitmore explains the six core components of EOS—vision, people, data, issues, processes, and traction—and how these practical tools help run a business efficiently. He shares his journey, from the initial struggle to get team buy-in to achieving significant growth and operational excellence. The conversation

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27:11

The Future Is Clear: Game-Changing Lens Tech Every OD...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/06/10

In this episode, the focus is on the integral yet often overlooked area of lens technologies, including progressive lenses, task lenses, and digital enhancements. The guest, Phil Cummins, Director of Sales at Three Rivers Optical, shares insights into the latest advancements in lens technology, particularly around filters for headaches, myopia control lenses, and progressive lenses. The discussion covers the rapid changes in lens technology, the importance of understanding patient needs, and the

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37:24

Using AI for Smarter Hiring, Training and Efficiency

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/06/03

In this episode, we welcome back Ankit Patel to discuss the innovative use of AI in his business, My Business Care Team, which provides virtual staffing solutions for eyecare practices. Ankit explains how AI can address staffing challenges, create effective job descriptions, facilitate behavioral-based interviews, and streamline the hiring process. He also delves into AI's role in training and development and practical steps to integrate AI into workflows for improved efficiency and

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31:50

Built for Kids: How Dr. Jeremy Ciano Created a...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/05/27

In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Ciano shares insights into his journey in pediatric optometry. Dr. Ciano moved to Indiana and started an adult clinic 18 years ago, expanding into pediatric care 12 years ago. Now with four practices, he discusses the unique challenges and rewards of pediatric eye care. Highlights include essential qualities for pediatric specialists, the significance of compassionate staff, and effective marketing strategies, particularly the benefits of consistent communication with

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43:12

Out of Sight, Top of Mind: Leading Remote Teams in...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/05/20

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo chats with Corey Pinnegar, founder of remote staffing company TEEM. They delve into the evolving landscape of remote work in optometry. They discuss the challenges of staffing shortages, rising payroll costs, and the potential for virtual assistants (VAs) to fill gaps and alleviate administrative burdens in optometry practices. Corey shares insights on integrating VAs into teams, emphasizing trust, clear expectations, and continuous employee development. This episode

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40:27

Core Value Dispensing: How Trust and Integrity Drive...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/05/13

In this episode, I’m joined by respected optician and educator Joy Gibb to explore how integrity, empathy, and curiosity—not sales tactics—drive the most impactful optical experiences. Joy introduces the concept of core value dispensing, where product recommendations are rooted in genuine care and a desire to improve each patient’s quality of life. We discuss how opticians can uncover lifestyle needs through better questions, collaborate more effectively with doctors, and build lasting trust with

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34:52

How Eye Doctors Are Helping Migraine Sufferers See...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/05/06

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Charles Posternack about his extensive career in healthcare and the founding of Avulux, a company dedicated to developing specialized lenses to aid migraine sufferers. Dr. Posternack shares personal stories and statistical insights into the prevalence and impact of migraines, particularly on those under 50 and on veterans. He explains the scientific basis behind Avulux lenses, their effectiveness, and their high success rate. The discussion also covers

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30:56

Navigating Tariffs: Impact on Eye Care Practices

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/04/29

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo explores the impact of recent tariffs on the eye care industry. Joined by Omar Elkhatib, Senior Manager of Government Relations, and Rick Van Arnam, regulatory counsel from the Vision Council, they discuss the implications of tariffs imposed on various countries, emphasizing how eyecare professionals might be affected. Key insights include the impact on costs for optical products such as frames, lenses, and equipment, and strategies for managing these

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34:59

Why Patients Say No—And How to Help Them Say Yes

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/04/22

In this special episode of Eye Own a Business, I’m sharing three powerful conversations from a previous podcast I hosted, Can I Ask You One Question? Each segment features a bestselling author exploring a common theme: how to influence human behavior in ways that lead to better outcomes—for your patients and your practice. You'll hear from Dr. Stephen Trzeciak on the science behind compassionate care, Dr. William Miller on what truly motivates people to change, and Dr. Kathleen Starr on overcoming

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39:24

“How Can I Afford to Hire?” Turning Payroll Anxiety...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/04/15

In this episode, Steve Vargo interviews Nathan Hayes, discussing the challenges and strategies surrounding payroll and hiring in optometry practices. They explore the complexities of hiring decisions, balancing fear and logic, and the importance of having the right team members to drive growth. They also touch on practical advice for managing staff, the benefits of outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping, and the nuanced role of incentive bonuses. The conversation aims to provide clarity and actionable

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21:54

How to Make Your Associate OD a Revenue Driver

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/04/08

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses a common challenge faced by practice owners: how to increase revenue production from associate ODs. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication in setting expectations, tracking performance metrics, and having productive review meetings. Dr. Vargo highlights the need for mentorship, focusing on patient care rather than just revenue, and creating a supportive environment. He concludes with tips on hiring the right associate and key metrics to track

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42:22

Start Over, Start Fresh: How One OD Designed a...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/04/01

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Stewart returns to discuss her remarkable journey back into private practice after selling her first practice. Reflecting on her initial decision to step away and the motivations behind her return, Dr. Stewart shares insights into what she learned about patient care and business operations. The conversation explores the challenges and rewards of cold starting a new practice and highlights the importance of focusing on what one truly enjoys in the profession. This

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49:13

The Future of Optometry: What the Next Generation of...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/03/25

The future of optometry is evolving, and today’s new grads have different expectations, career goals, and challenges than ever before. In this episode, I sit down with Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, President and CEO of New England College of Optometry, to discuss what the next generation of optometrists really wants—from practicing to the full extent of their licensure to navigating student debt and business ownership. We also explore the shifting dynamics between experienced ODs and new graduates, the

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58:12

The Power of Influence: How Communication Transforms...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/03/18

In this episode, Kayla Ashley, founder of Spexy, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of influential communication and how simple behavioral adjustments can notably improve patient trust and practice outcomes. Ashley shares actionable insights into reducing patient walkouts, optimizing team interactions, and enhancing the overall patient experience. The significance of active listening and the impact of non-verbal cues are also highlighted to ensure patients feel heard and understood, thus

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32:17

Beyond the Exam Room: Why Optometrists Must Think...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/03/11

At The Connection 2025, Dr. Todd Cohan discusses the importance of integrating a business mindset into optometry practices. He shares insights on balancing patient care with effective business management, highlighting three pillars of his practice: primary eye care, myopia management, and dry eye treatment. Dr. Cohan emphasizes the need for entrepreneurial skills, the significance of valuing staff, and the methods of creating accountability and trust within the team. He also shares his journey of

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34:13

Optimizing Optometry Marketing: Insights from Jeremy...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/03/04

In this episode, Jeremy Bono, a new addition to the IDOC team, delves into his experience in the eye care space, specifically focusing on marketing for optometrists. He emphasizes the importance of defining personal brand values and mission, leveraging SEO, and using AI for competitive analysis and strategy refinement. Throughout the conversation, Jeremy offers actionable advice on creating effective websites, the role of social media, and the significance of both digital and traditional marketing

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22:46

The CLEAR Sales Model: A Simple Approach to Selling...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/02/18

In this podcast episode, we tackle the often uncomfortable topic of 'selling' in the eye care profession. Despite being trained primarily as clinicians, optometrists and opticians can greatly benefit from understanding effective sales techniques. Host Steve Vargo introduces the CLEAR Sales Model - a simple, repeatable system that helps guide patients through the eyewear selection process. The model stands for Connect with the patient, Listen actively, Educate on options, Address concerns, and

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49:46

Stop Jonesin’…measure your success against your own...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/02/11

In this episode originally aired on the 20/20 Money podcast, certified financial planner Adam Cmejla and Dr. Steve Vargo discuss the importance of staying true to one's vision and passion in practice ownership. The conversation highlights common pitfalls such as the temptation to mimic other successful practices and urges optometrists to avoid unnecessary comparisons. Steve shares insights on identifying and focusing on activities that align with one's vision, experimenting with new ideas, and

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50:45

The Admin Day Trap: How to Reclaim Your Time and Grow...

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/02/04

Are you stuck in the “Admin Day” mindset, drowning in tasks that keep you from growing your practice? In this episode, Steve and guest Adam Cmejla challenge the way optometry practice owners think about time management, delegation, and productivity. They explore why so many ODs struggle to let go of certain tasks, how opportunity cost affects practice growth, and why saying no to low-value activities can be the key to scaling successfully.Tune in to learn actionable strategies for reclaiming your

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01:01:59

Embracing and Implementing Change in Your Practice

EYE OWN A BUSINESS ·

2025/01/28

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Steve welcomes practice management experts Sharon Carter and Lynn Lawrence to discuss their keynote presentation, How to Embrace Change and Implement It, which will be delivered at the upcoming IDOC Connection conference in February. The conversation explores why change is challenging in optometry practices, how to implement it effectively, and the critical role leadership plays in navigating change. Sharon and Lynn share insights on overcoming resistance,

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112 results

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