Shows
The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP33 From Optometrist to Owner Building Confidence and Growing Independently with Amanda DuffyWhat does it really take to go from being a new optometrist to owning two thriving independent practices before 30? In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Amanda Duffy, an optometrist and co‑owner of two practices, to talk about her journey as an eye care professional, her mindset, and the steps she took to confidently step into ownership.From building patient-first businesses to managing a supportive team and navigating the challenges of ownership with her husband James, Amanda candidly shares what it really takes to create a fulfilling and flexible career in optometry. Wh...2025-07-2847 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP32: Training and Recruitment Challenges in the Optical Profession with James GibbinsEveryone loses when thousands of optical assistants are untrained. It's not their fault; it's just that they're out there performing optical services that they haven't got any idea about. – James GibbinsIn this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by James Gibbins, Director of Education at ACOD and one of the legends in Australia's optical industry, to dive into the two critical areas of the optical profession: training and recruitment.With over four decades of experience, James unpacks the current training gap impacting untrained optical assistants, outdated recruitment models, and ho...2025-07-0150 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP31: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 8 - Tough Talks, Stronger Team: How to Lead with Language and IntentWhat if the real price of avoiding difficult conversations at work is losing your best team members and holding back your business growth? How much longer can you afford to stay silent?In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined again by Opticare’s Commercial Manager, Joanne Scott-Dostine, to dive into one of the most avoided yet essential parts of practice management: navigating difficult conversations with intention and clarity. From understanding why people avoid difficult conversations to walking through how to approach them with emotional intelligence and strategy, Joanne shares a useful and effective approach fo...2025-06-1654 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP30: Digital Health and Evolving Scope of Optometry with Nicola MountfordWhat does Digital health really mean in the context of optometry beyond the buzzwords? Nicola Mountford unpacks one of the most relevant topics in optometry as technology continues to reshape the healthcare landscape.In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Nicola Mountford, Optometry Advancement Advisor at Optometry Australia, to explore the evolving role of digital health in optometry. Nicola breaks down the practical applications of digital tools in a clinical setting, how it's transforming the way optometrists practice, and how the industry can adapt to stay relevant and integrated into Australia's broader healthcare...2025-06-0244 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP29: Craftsmanship and Sustainability: The Future of Eyewear with Chris Savage"Sustainability doesn't have to be special, it can just be a normal part of eyewear manufacturing process," - Chris Savage's take on championing small batch eyewear manufacturing, environmental responsibility, and timeless design aesthetics.In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Chris Savage, a renowned eyewear designer and founder of Objekt Eyewear & Spexcycle, to explore the often-overlooked artistry industry behind frame design and sustainability in the optical industry. From his unexpected journey to the optical industry to Spexcycle's process of collecting and making sustainable handcrafted frame designs, Chris redefines the future of what sustainable...2025-05-1954 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP28: Leadership, Staff Motivation & Social Media for Practice Growth with Kayla Ashlee - Part 3If your team isn't showing up the way you want, it might be time to look at your leadership. Because the truth is, thriving optical practices aren’t built on sales alone. They’re built on strong leadership, intentional training, and a team that feels seen, supported, and inspired.In this part 3 episode, Michael Nasser is back again with Kayle Ashlee, the founder of Spexy, a training platform designed for eye care professionals to discuss the human side of practice growth. From having a structured leadership check-in and performance-based incentives to leveraging your social medi...2025-05-0550 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP27: Soft Skills & Human Connection in Optometry with Kayla Ashlee - Part 2Can you truly build a human connection with your patient in just one minute? In part two of our conversation, Kayla Ashlee returns to share how “adult pacifiers,” aka our phones, are quietly killing patient relationships. She reveals how soft skills, when used intentionally, can restore and create an unforgettable patient experience.Kayla shares strategies for using soft skills in every patient touchpoint, how connection creates a real differentiator, and how to build a level of soft skills awareness with your new and existing staff. If you want your practice to stand out in this AI-driven and tech...2025-04-2118 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP26: The Power of Structured Training in Independent Optometry with Kayla Ashlee - Part 1You can have the best inventory and marketing plan for your independent practice, but if your team isn't trained to back it up, it does no good to you - Kayla Ashlee.In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Kayla Ashlee, CEO of Spexy, a US-based optical training resource that addresses the most critical struggles of independent practices. Kayla discusses the role of structured training and how practices can maximise their team's potential to improve patient experience, boost sales, and grow the optical practice.Kayla Ashlee is an...2025-04-0726 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP25: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 7 - The Untapped Opportunity for Sunglasses in Australia’s Independent PracticesWhat if the advice we failed to give is the very reason our patients are now struggling with eye health issues? At what point will they come back to us, wondering why we never told them to wear sunglasses before it was too late?In this episode of the Elevate Your Practice series, Michael Nasser and Joanne Scott-Dostine, Opticare's Commercial Manager, discuss the often overlooked opportunities for sunglass offerings in Australia's optometry practice.Joanne shares the alarming statistics of UV exposure & skin cancer, how creating awareness and patient education...2025-03-2447 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP24: Kelly O' Brien on Managing an Independent Optical Practice in a Rural Setting: Challenges, Partnership, Growth, and Making a Difference in the CommunityShe drove patients to the hospital by herself three times because there was no other choice - here's what a rural independent practice co-owner does to go above and beyond patient care. Kelly O’Brien is the co-owner of Bridge Eye Care, a trusted independent practice in Murray Bridge. Her journey began with a cadet scholarship from OPSM, and she worked for them in various locations for seven years. Driven by her ambition to have her own family and a balanced lifestyle, Kelly joined Bridge Eye Care as an optometrist. Over time, she and her clos...2025-03-101h 02The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP23: Belinda Musitano on Strategic Growth, Patient Care & Running a SuccessfulWhat does it take to scale an independent practice successfully? In this episode, Michael Nasser talks with Belinda Musitano of Eyes@Optometry to explore how she has successfully built and expanded her independent practice to three thriving locations in Western Australia. Throughout the conversation, Belinda shared how she transitioned from being an optical dispenser to a practice owner, the key strategies she used to scale and sustain her business, and initiatives that helped her foster trust and loyalty to her customers. From patient care to strategic marketing, staff training, and community engagement, this ep...2025-02-2442 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP22: Assess Your Emotional Intelligence and Be a Better Leader with Dr. Bethany Fishbein [Part 2]You might think to yourself, I'm a good leader! Okay, but does your self-awareness match how your team perceives you? In this episode, Michael Nasser and Dr. Bethany Fishbein dive deeper into emotional intelligence (EI) and its practical application in leadership development. Dr. Bethany shares the six key leadership competencies, how to evaluate and interpret them, and provides actionable steps to improve team dynamics and workplace communication. They also use Michael's assessment results as a case study, showing how self-awareness and team feedback can drive meaningful leadership growth. This episode is...2025-02-1046 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP21: The Essentials of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Dr. Bethany Fishbein [Part 1]Great leaders don't just focus on goals and deadlines. They connect with emotions, too. Emotional intelligence is the secret ingredient that transforms leadership, strengthens optometry teams, and drives meaningful results.In this episode, Michael Nasser speaks with Dr. Bethany Fishbein, a New Jersey-based optometrist and Emotional Intelligence practitioner. Together, they explore the critical role emotional intelligence plays in effective leadership. From improving team dynamics to managing stress and fostering a culture of trust and authenticity, Dr. Bethany offers actionable insights for leaders aiming to elevate their impact.Dr. Bethany Fishbein is an executive coach and...2025-01-2745 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP20: Vision 2040: Shaping the Future of Optometry with Skye Cappuccio, CEO of Optometry AustraliaAre you curious about where the optical industry is headed and what it means for you as an eye care professional? In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Skye Cappuccio, CEO of Optometry Australia, to dive into the Optometry 2040 project, an initiative to shape the future of optometry by understanding key trends, challenges, and opportunities that will impact the profession in the years to come. During the conversation, Skye shares what optometrists can do now to stay ahead of these changes and thrive in the future. From expanding the scope of practice and embracing AI in d...2025-01-1349 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsBonus: Advancing Your Independent Optical Practice in 2025: CPD Resources & Myopia Control EducationAre you ready to advance your career in 2025? The optical industry is evolving rapidly, and staying ahead requires more than just keeping up—it demands proactive learning and strategic growth. In this special holiday episode, we revisit insightful discussions on professional development and myopia management, providing you with tools to advance your practice in 2025. Whether you're an optometrist, optical dispenser, or independent practitioner, this episode is packed with actionable insights and educational resources to help you build a stronger team, deliver better patient care, and stay at the cutting edge of the optical industry. 2024-12-1625 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP19: Optometry Self Defence: Protecting Your Practice from Cyber Threats and Legal Pitfalls With Luke Arundel from OAAre your optical practice and patient data truly secure? With cyber-attacks on the rise and an increasingly complex legal landscape, eye care professionals need to be made aware of how vulnerable their businesses may be. In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Luke Arundel, Chief Clinical Officer at Optometry Australia, to delve into the critical topic of cybersecurity and legal risks facing optometry practices. Luke brings awareness on both the clinical and cyber security fronts, sharing steps in safeguarding optical practice from the financial and reputational damage of a data breach and defending t...2024-12-0257 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP18: Insights from the US with Brianna Rhue – Building the Optometry Practice of Your DreamsWhat makes an optical business successful? According to Dr. Brianna Rhue, it's not just purchasing the OCT (Optical coherence tomography), but investing in technology that makes it easier for patients to do business with you. In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Dr. Brianna Rhue, a US-based optometrist and founder of Dr. Contact Lens, to discuss innovative strategies and tech resources that Australian optometrists can use to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities in Australia's optical industry. Dr. Rhue offers expert insights on embracing automation, elevating patient engagement, and drawing insp...2024-11-1851 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP17: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 6 - Practical Marketing Tips for Optometry & Optical Dispensing PracticesIn this special episode, recorded live at the OptiPro Roadshow in Sydney, host Michael Nasser sits down with Joanne Scott-Dostine, Opticare's Commercial Manager, to share actionable marketing strategies tailored for optometry and optical dispensing practices. Whether you want to enhance your website's user experience, boost patient engagement, or make the most of social media, this episode is packed with tips to elevate your practice. Join the conversation as they dive into website optimisation, leveraging Facebook and Instagram to grow your local presence, streamlining patient recall systems, and cost-effective marketing techniques designed to strengthen your digital fo...2024-11-0431 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP16: Pioneering Myopia Management: Insights from Jagrut Lallu on Innovations, Research, and Practice IntegrationAs myopia rates surge globally, eye care professionals are faced with the growing challenge of looking for ways to control it. In this episode, Michael Nasser sits down with Jagrut Lallu, a leading expert in myopia management and founder of New Zealand's first myopia control clinic, to understand the science of myopia management and explore technological innovations and collaborative business models to prevent myopia progression. Jagrut Lallu is an optometrist who is passionate about Myopia management and Keratoconus. He set up the first myopia control clinic in New Zealand in 2009 and is an owner of R...2024-10-2146 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP15: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 5 - Mastering Stock Management in Your Optical PracticeIn this episode, recorded live at the OptiPro Roadshow at Rendezvous Hotel in Perth, Michael Nasser and Joanne Scott-Dostine dive into one of the most critical components of running a smooth and profitable optical practice: stock management. They cover everything from understanding a store's unique needs and implementing strategic pricing to selecting the right brands and conducting regular stock reviews to ensure an optical practice thrives. Join Michael and Joanne as they share expert strategies for optimising inventory, setting effective pricing, and planning merchandise for long-term success. Plus, you'll hear a real-life success story from on...2024-10-0733 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP14: Engage and Influence: Emma Gillies on Advanced Strategies for Trust-Based SellingMichael Nasser is joined by Emma Gillies, an optometrist and founder of Purple Key Consulting, to explore how trust-based selling transforms patient interactions. From the subtle power of nonverbal communication to advanced techniques for boosting confidence, this episode is your go-to source for building relationships and truly understanding and meeting customer needs.Throughout the conversation, Emma shares her journey from traditional optometry to becoming an advocate for trust-based selling. She emphasises the shift from feature-based to benefit-based conversations and how to connect with curiosity. Emma also provides strategies for mastering both verbal and nonverbal...2024-09-2349 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP13: Enhancing Eye Care for People with Dementia: Insights and Solutions with Marianne ColemanAs we observe World Alzheimer's Month, focusing on dementia awareness and reducing stigma, we invited Marianne Coleman, a renowned orthoptist and researcher, to explore the critical intersection of dementia and visual function. Marianne shares strategies to help eye care professionals better support patients with dementia, from understanding their challenges to applying practical, dementia-friendly solutions. This episode is a must-listen for eye care professionals committed to providing inclusive care for the aging population. A qualified orthoptist from the University of Liverpool and a research fellow at the National Centre for Healthy Aging (NCHA), Marianne has spent years exploring t...2024-09-0949 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP12: Through The Lens: Paul Clarke on Building a Career in OpticsIn this episode, Michael Nasser introduces the new “Through the Lens” series, which explores the personal and professional journeys of influential figures in the eye health industry. Our first guest for this series is Paul Clarke, an optical dispenser and Advisory Board Member of ODA. Paul shares his journey of building his career from optical mechanics to co-founding the charitable institution, Equal Health. He highlights the impact of professional networking and continuous learning through organizations like the International Opticians Association (IOA), the significance of in-house manufacturing, and having a clear business model that attrac...2024-08-2644 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP11: Independent Vision: Alison Abdullah's Journey from NYC to Lens AvenueIn this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Alison Abdullah Daoud, founder and director of Lens Avenue. Alison shares her inspiring career path, from completing her optometry degree at UNSW to gaining high-end industry experience in New York and finally starting her own independent practice in Sydney. This is a must-listen episode for new and experienced practitioners planning to start their independent practice. During the conversation, they discussed Alison's inspiration in pursuing independent practice, the challenges she faced, and the innovative strategies she employed to grow her practice. Alison also highlights the importance of educating pa...2024-08-1234 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP10: Exploring the Evolution and Future of Optometric Media with mivision's Todd TaiIn this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Todd Tai, the Managing Director of mivision Magazine & Digital, to explore the evolution and transformative journey of mivision magazine. From its inception in 2006, focusing on eyewear to becoming a media company that bridges optometrists and ophthalmologists, this episode offers insights into how mivision adapts to the changing media landscape whilst promoting professional collaboration and advancing education. Throughout the conversation, Michael and Todd discuss the critical role of optometric media, the significance of accessible Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules, and the growing importance of digital content and AI in...2024-07-2934 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP9: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 4 - Unlocking the Secrets to Effective Employee Onboarding and RetentionIn this episode, Michael Nasser and Joanne Scott-Dostine, Opticare's Commercial Manager, uncover the secret behind effective employee onboarding and fostering a culture of retention within optometry practice. This episode of the Elevate Your Practice is a must-listen for practice owners and managers who aim to enhance team dynamics and overall productivity. During the conversation, Michael and Joanne explore how a well-structured onboarding can make or break an employee's journey. Joanne emphasises the importance of strategic planning and shares simple and practical factors that contribute to long-term employee retention.Joanne S...2024-07-1527 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP8: Recall Mastery: Enhancing Patient Engagement and Practice Growth with Fatin TobiaIn this episode, Michael Nasser invites Fatin Tobia, Co-Founder and Director of eye2eye Marketing 360, to explore the effectiveness of patient recall strategy in improving patient care and business outcomes in the optometry industry. Tune in and learn how simple changes like hiring a dedicated recall specialist can dramatically enhance your practice’s ability to retain patients and drive growth. Fatin highlights the importance of solid strategy, how personalized communication leverages community connection, and sharing valuable insights that can help transform patient recall systems into a powerhouse of engagement and growth. Fatin...2024-07-0133 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP7: Adapting to Change: Empowering Optical Dispensers Through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) with April PetrusmaIn this episode, Michael Nasser invites April Petrusma, CEO of Optical Dispenser Australia (ODA) and Optical teacher at ACOD - Australianasian College of Optical Dispensing, to share her extensive experience in the optical dispensing industry and discuss the importance of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in adapting to change and creating new opportunities in optometry practice.During the conversation, Michael and April delve into the impact of regulations and deregulation in the industry, the role of CPD in improving patient care, and the evolving landscape of optical dispensing. April also shares her insights into how technology and AI...2024-06-1739 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP6: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 3 - Building Effective Teams: Combining Knowledge and Personalities in Your Optometry PracticeIn this episode, Michael Nasser and Joanne Scott-Dostine, Opticare's Commercial Manager, delve into the most important and least understood aspect of running an optometry business: building effective teams. This episode of the Elevate Your Practice series is packed with tips and strategies that will help you harness your staff's unique strengths and create a team that stands out. Throughout the conversation, Michael and Joanne discuss the importance of assessing and addressing knowledge gaps, onboarding effectively, and maintaining a positive workplace culture. Joanne also highlights the significance of balancing technical expertise with exceptional customer service to im...2024-06-0331 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP5: Elevate Your Practice: Topic 2 - The Art of Mastering Business Review with KPIs & Demographics with Joanne Scott - DostineIn this episode, Michael Nasser and Joanne Scott-Dostine, Opticare's Commercial Manager, delve into the critical yet often overlooked practice of conducting a business review. This Elevate Your Practice series episode explores the significance and impact of understanding KPIs and demographics in strategic decision-making. During the conversation, Michael and Joanne tackled demographic shifts, fill rate, main KPIs for optical practice, and overall business approach. From real business examples to key demographic information, this episode will help you master the art of business review and support your career and business growth. Joanne Scott Dost...2024-05-2029 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP4: Elevate Your Practice Series: Topic 1- Identifying the Point of Difference in Optometry Practice with Joanne Scott-DostineIn this episode, Michael Nasser and Joanne Scott-Dostine, Opticare's Commercial Manager, discuss the essential elements that make the modern optometry practice not just survive but thrive. This is the first episode of the Elevate Your Practice series, where they dive into the fundamental question every practice should address: "What is your point of difference?" Throughout the conversation, Michael and Joanne emphasise the foundational role of a clear vision, mission, and values and the necessity of team alignment and building a unique identity. Joanne also explains how to recognise and leverage a practice's unique strength to be...2024-05-1431 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP3: Creating Better Service with Better Patients: Myopia Control and Scope Expansion of Optometric Practice with Andrew McKinnon (Part 2)In this episode, Michael Nasser and Andrew McKinnon, CEO of Optometry Australia NSW/ACT, discussed the critical topics shaping the future of optometry, including myopia control management, expanding optometric scope, and the evolving landscape of healthcare systems. Andrew provides valuable insights into the rising prevalence of myopia, emphasizing the importance of community awareness and practitioner readiness. Their conversation extends to integrating optometrists into public health systems, drawing parallels between Australia and New Zealand, and touching on the potential benefits and challenges associated with scope expansion.Prior to becoming CEO, Andrew McKinon had been aware of o...2024-05-0526 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP2: Creating Better Service with Better Patients: Transitioning to Private Billing in Eye Care Practices with Andrew McKinnon (Part 1)In this episode of The Focused View, Michael Nasser explores the debate between bulk billing and private billing in eye care practices with Andrew McKinnon, CEO of Optometry Australia NSW/ACT. Their conversation spans the mission and impact of Optometry Australia, ongoing initiatives, and the evolving landscape of billing practices in the eyecare industry.Andrew highlights the importance of private billing in maintaining high-quality care and sustainable business models, alongside practical strategies for transitioning from bulk to private billing in optometry practices.Prior to becoming CEO, Andrew McKinon had been aware of optometry for some...2024-05-0527 minThe Focused View: Empowering Eye Care ProfessionalsEP1: The Focused View - Introduction EpisodeWelcome to The Focused View Podcast!This podcast is envisioned as a space where we can foster a community of like-minded professionals who are passionate about advancing their careers and businesses in the optical industry. Through interviews and panel discussions, we will explore topics about decision-makers in independent optometry and eye-care businesses across Australia. We will uncover the secrets behind building standout optometry practices, cutting-edge strategies, and the latest industry trends. A show that aims to create a rich, multifaceted conversation that not only informs but also inspires.Whether...2024-04-2509 min