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20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryIf you think "sales" is a dirty word, this episode was made just for you.In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo returns to talk about a topic many ODs quietly struggle with: the role of sales in patient care and practice performance. Inspired by a recent post he shared on LinkedIn, we explore why certain KPIs feel frustrating to improve and how a simple shift in perspective can change the way doctors think about influencing patient outcomes. Steve and I discuss the stories we tell ourselves about what "selling" means, why the word carries so much baggage in healthcare, and how a reframed definition can open the door to clearer communication and...
2025-11-1734 min
The Myopia MindsetEpisode 25 - Staying Ahead of Hesitation with Dr. Steve Vargo | Vision By Design 2025 PreviewThis episode has been UNLOCKED for all audiences as part of our ROAD TO VISION BY DESIGN 2025 series. How do you move patients from “Maybe later” to “I’m in”—without feeling like a pushy salesperson?We’re kicking off our Road to Vision by Design 2025 series with none other than Dr. Steve Vargo, OD, MBA—bestselling author, seasoned consultant, and this year’s VBD keynote speaker.🎟 Learn more about Vision by Design 2025 at https://aaomc.org/vbd/In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, Dr. Vargo joins us for a practical, eye-openin...
2025-08-1300 min
EYE OWN A BUSINESSThe CLEAR Leadership Model: 5 Simple Shifts that Transform Team PerformanceIn this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo turns the focus to leadership, presenting the CLEAR Leadership Model. Dr. Vargo outlines a five-step framework designed to build trust, boost accountability, and foster engagement within an eyecare practice. The model, which stands for Coach with Curiosity, Lead by Listening, Equip with Skills, Align Around Purpose, and Reinforce through Recognition, aims to simplify effective leadership through intentional communication. Whether you're an office manager, team lead, or practice owner, this episode provides practical insights to improve team dynamics and drive better performance.
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2025-06-2435 minEYE OWN A BUSINESSHow to Make Your Associate OD a Revenue DriverIn 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 for ongoing success.
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2025-04-0821 minEYE OWN A BUSINESSStop Jonesin’…measure your success against your own purpose, not someone else’sIn 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 making well-considered decisions in practice management. The episode also emphasizes the importance of learning from failures, finding joy and passion in one's work, and balancing financial success...
2025-02-1149 min
20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryThink differently about "admin days" in your practice --my guest appearance on "Eye Own a Business" with Dr. Steve Vargo, ODWelcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! This week's episode is my guest appearance on Dr. Steve Vargo's show "Eye Own a Business," produced by IDOC. Steve had me on the show to talk about something that I've been thinking about for some time, and I used his show to "stake my claim"—I don't like term "admin day" and want to see the profession start embracing a different way of thinking about the work that owners do ON the business. I share my beliefs and reasoning behind this and why I feel it behooves owners to...
2025-02-1051 min
20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryStop Jonesin'…measure your success against your own purpose, not someone else's with Dr. Steve Vargo, ODWelcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is Dr. Steve Vargo, OD. In addition to being a practice management consultant with IDOC, Steve is also the host of the podcast "Eye Own a Business" a show with episodes aimed to help independent ODs grow a thriving practice while wearing the hats of both OD and business owner. In this episode Steve and I talk about the importance of staying true to your vision and passion in practice ownership. We talk about how easily owners can get distracted by what other owners are doing...
2025-01-2749 minEYE OWN A BUSINESSBut I Don’t Sell - Ethical Strategies for Boosting Sales in EyecareIn this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses the topic of selling within the eyecare industry. He emphasizes the need to reconceptualize selling not as a pushy tactic, but as an extension of patient care. Drawing from his book, 'But I Don’t Sell,' Dr. Vargo discusses the importance of understanding patient needs, emotional drivers behind decision-making, the 'trust gap,' and strategies to overcome common objections. He offers actionable tips like asking better questions, clearly communicating value, and creating a sense of urgency to enhance patient outcomes and practice revenue. The episode aims to reduce the stigma around se...
2025-01-1417 minEYE OWN A BUSINESSStaff Conflict is Inevitable: How to Embrace it and Manage it EffectivelyIn this episode of Eye Own a Business, host Steve Vargo dives into the often-dreaded topic of workplace conflict, reframing it as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat to harmony. Drawing from personal experiences, leadership workshops, and compelling research, Steve explains why conflict is a natural and even beneficial part of team dynamics—when managed effectively.
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2024-12-1712 minEYE OWN A BUSINESSThe Power of Failure: Learning from What Doesn’t WorkIn this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo challenges traditional notions of business success by emphasizing the importance of embracing failure. Contrasting the usual focus on success strategies, Dr. Vargo advocates for taking risks and learning from failures, highlighting how an experimental mindset can drive growth and innovation in optometry practices. Through practical examples and industry insights, he illustrates how small, low-risk tests can provide valuable data and lead to significant improvements. He also emphasizes building a culture of experimentation within practices and encourages staff empowerment to test new ideas.
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2024-10-0117 min
Open Your Eyes with Dr. Kerry GelbEp 142 - "Business Leadership" Dr. Steve VargoSteve Vargo, OD, MBA is a 1998 graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry. In 2014 he joined Prima Eye Group (now IDOC) as Vice President of Optometric Consulting. A published author and speaker with 15 years of clinical experience, he now serves as IDOC's Optometric Practice Management Consultant.
2024-09-3045 min
Own Your AwkwardAwkwardly Abled with Cheri HardmanIn this very special episode, we have our first returning guest to take a deeper dive into how they continue to own their awkward.
Cheri Hardman captivates audiences with hilarious tales about being a plus size, menopausal babe. She won Tacoma Comedy Club's 'The Comedy Voice', was a finalist in Nate Jackson's Super Funny Comedy Club's Funniest MF Out Here and performed at Bumbershoot and in Seattle International Comedy Competition. Her bawdy, sassy style makes her the perfect host for her podcast, 'Diary of an Ex Ho.'Cheri has worked with Tiffany Haddish, Steve-O, Nate Jackson, Stormy...
2024-09-2544 minEYE OWN A BUSINESSLeverage Google Ads to Grow Your PracticeIn this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo dives into the intricacies of digital advertising, specifically focusing on Google Ads, to help practice owners increase visibility and attract more patients. Dr. Vargo is joined by Onyé Anyanwu, Senior Marketing Strategist at IDOC, who offers detailed insights into creating effective Google Ads campaigns. Key topics include keyword research, optimizing ad copy, tracking performance metrics, and understanding the future trends like AI in digital marketing. This episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their practice’s marketing strategies.
Learn more about Optometry Marketing Services: https://optom...
2024-07-0944 min
Lay of The Land#173: Mitchell Vargo (Forward Hospitality Group) — The Business of Hospitality & Entertainment in ClevelandMitchell Vargo, Partner at Forward Hospitality Group.Since its founding in 2015, the Cleveland-based Hospitality Group has built out unique entertainment, bar, and restaurant experiences locally and all across the country — from here in Cleveland to Chicago, Miami, and beyond!The breadth of concepts spans FWD — the large-scale day and nightclub built on a shipyard in the East Flats with a quintessential Cleveland industrial backdrop, coined the Ibiza of the midwest and pulling some of the largest names from EDM and beyond, like Rick Ross, DeadMau5, Steve Aoki, Afrojack and more … also my personal favori...
2024-07-0452 min
20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryPeace of Mind: Aligning business and personal goals (Adam's guest appearance on Eye Own a Business Podcast with Dr. Steve Vargo)Welcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! This week's episode is my guest appearance on IDOC's "Eye Own a Business" podcast hosted by Dr. Steve Vargo. Steve had me on the show to talk about the relationship between business and personal goal planning and how related they are to one another. We talk about the importance of asking "why" before asking "how," why it's important to be specific when visualizing your goals, the importance of being intentional with your time and why practice owners are reluctant to delegate various responsibilities in their personal and professional lives.
2023-02-2047 min
Can I Ask You One Question?30. How Have Processes Improved Your Practice? | Brianna Rhue, ODWhere can you automate systems? Where are processes breaking down? How do I achieve better time management? In this episode, Dr. Brianna Rhue shares how processes allow her to play more offense and less defense!
2023-02-0706 min
20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryMeasuring and improving productivity in your practice with Dr. Steve Vargo, ODWelcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is Dr. Steve Vargo, OD with IDOC. Steve joins me back on the show to talk about the idea of employee productivity and how that translates into the overall success of the practice. We bifurcate this topic by first talking about associate vs owner productivity and steps that an owner can take to increase productivity of associates in their practice. We transition then into talking about the front of practice activities (optical and front desk) and the importance of distilling the big practice goals d...
2023-01-1654 minCan I Ask You One Question?29. How Can Sharing YOUR Story Impact Patient Care? | Rob Kloepfer, ODEveryone has a story. Everyone. Sometimes your story can help someone else… if you’re open to sharing it. In this episode, Dr. Rob Kloepfer shares his story, and shows how a story can enhance patient care.
2023-01-1109 minCan I Ask You One Question?28. How Do You Reply to a Negative Review WITHOUT Violating HIPAA? | Heather IrvingDoctors have a love-hate relationship with online reviews. A positive review can be great marketing. A poor review can be damaging to the practice. Sometimes a practice earns that negative review, but there are also times there may have been a misunderstanding or the patient is not being true to the facts and the office feels compelled to reply. This might not be a problem in other industries, but healthcare has a thing called HIPAA!
Heather Irving, Director of Customer Success for Abyde, walks us through the Do's and Don'ts.
2022-12-1311 minCan I Ask You One Question?27. How Much Money is Enough to Retire? | Natalie SchmookYou're never too young to start planning your retirement. But, how much money do you need to retire? In this mini-interview, Natalie Schmook of Hayes Wealth Advisers breaks down the main considerations and explains the “4% Rule”.
2022-11-2906 minCan I Ask You One Question?26. How Do You Handle the Price Objection? | David PriemerIn this episode I interview David Priemer, author of the bestselling book Sell the Way You Buy.
Whether it’s you or your staff, at some point we all hear, “Wow, that sounds expensive!”
David discusses how to respond with empathy and gain a better understanding of the patient's real concerns, which may or may not be price.
2022-10-1107 minCan I Ask You One Question?25. What's the Best Way to Handle Staff Conflict? | Devon ClimerSomething most leaders have to navigate at some point, people on their team don’t always get along. Some if this is normal and manageable, but sometimes, if not properly managed, it becomes detrimental to the business and office culture. In this episode I interview workplace communication specialist Devon Climer, MA, CCC-SLP about this very common business leadership challenge. Learn more about Devon at devonclimer.com
2022-09-0608 minCan I Ask You One Question?24. How Do I Build a Personal Brand as a Doctor? | Harbir Sian, ODIf people in your community described you, what would they say? She's an optometrist. He does eye exams. Or... something more indicative of a "brand"? For example, "She's the best doctor around for treating dry eye!"
How can you stand out in your community? In this episode, I ask Dr. Harbir Sian to apply what he's learned building a national brand to ODs wanting to enhance their brand on a local level. He shares what he calls his 3 Pillars of Branding.
What do YOU want to be known for in your community?
2022-08-0915 minCan I Ask You One Question?23. In this Economy, How Should I Be Handling Money? | Adam Cmejla, cfpIn the current economic downturn marked by inflation and concerns over a looming recession, how should practice owners be handing money? Should they be reducing costs? Increasing revenues? Adam thinks one strategy is more financially beneficial than the other. Tune in to find out which one in this interview with Adam Cmejla, Founder & President of Integrated Planning and Wealth Management and host of 20/20 Money Podcast.
2022-07-1209 min
Can I Ask You One Question?22. How Should I Price My Contact Lenses? | Ryan Gustus, ODShort interview with Ryan Gustus, OD, co-founder of LensQuote. Through their new service, Profit Assist, his company works with practices to move beyond simple pricing formulas and consider strategies that drive profitability and conversions.
2022-06-2109 minCan I Ask You One Question?21. What are the Top 3 Ways to Reduce Stress as a Business Owner? | Dr. Rick KattoufInterview with Dr. Rick Kattouf, OD turned professional bodybuilder and fitness guru.
While not all ODs aspire to be professional bodybuilders, most are not immune to professional or personal stress. With Rick’s background, I thought he would be a good person to ask about stress management.
The statistics on physician stress (including depression, anxiety, and even a suicide rate twice the normal population) is something we don’t talk about enough.
More about Rick: https://www.kattoufstore.com/
2022-05-0314 minCan I Ask You One Question?20. How Does Compassionate Care Impact Patient Outcomes? | Dr. Stephen TrzeciakI don't think most people would argue a connection between compassionate care and a positive healthcare experience, but Dr. Stephen Trzeciak (author of Compassionomics: The Revolutionary Scientific Evidence that Caring Makes a Difference), explored the science and research to offer conclusive evidence of the positive impact of compassion on not only the patient, but the provider as well.
2022-04-0516 minCan I Ask You One Question?19. What Strategy Do I Use to Get Out of Debt and Achieve Financial Freedom? | Dr. Aaron NeufeldMost new optometry grads enter the workforce carrying a massive burden - DEBT! And lots of it. Combine that with the increased responsibilities of family, home, personal expenses and perhaps (gulp) taking out even more money to start ofr purchase a practice. If you're feeling underwater financially, Aaron gives a few tips on where to start. To stay on top of your financial situation, you can follow Aaron on the Facebook group ODs on Finance, and visit their website at odsonfinance.com.
2022-03-2306 min
My Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: 10 Things I Hate About YouThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2022-02-281h 56Can I Ask You One Question?18. How Do You Get a Patient to Change a Behavior? | Dr. William MillerIn this episode, we ask Dr. William Miller, author of Motivational Interviewing in Health Care: Helping Patients Change Behavior, about the most effective ways to get patients to change a behavior. Much of our effectiveness as clinicians is not tied to our ability to educate patients, it's tied to our ability to get them to take action on the information we provide, such as changing a negative behavior to improve their health or well-being.
2022-02-0808 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: Sports Night & The NewsroomThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2022-01-171h 37Can I Ask You One Question?17. How Can Doctors Overcome Patient Resistance? | Dr. Kathleen StarrIn this episode, we ask Dr. Kathleen Starr, author of Why We Resist: The Surprising Truths About Behavior Change, about how to overcome patient resistance. According to Dr. Starr, it's not that patients are good or bad, it's just human nature we're working with.
2022-01-1108 minCan I Ask You One Question?16. How Can an OD Successfully Drop Insurance Plans? | Dr. Steven ShawDr. Steven Shaw is doing something lot ODs are thinking about but not sure how to successfully pull off. Drop insurance plans!
In episode 16 of "Can I Ask You One Question?", I ask Dr. Shaw about his strategies for not only dropping 3rd party plans, but doing it successfully.
2021-12-1407 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Movie Club: I’m Thinking of Ending ThingsWelcome back to Corona Movie Club, one of My Entertainment World’s quarantine projects. Every Wednesday while we were distancing ourselves physically, we found each other online to do one of our very favourite things- talk about movies.
In this, our final episode, we’re fittingly discussing the 2020 Charlie Kaufman trip I’m Thinking of Ending Things.
Corona Movie Club was an important coping mechanism for us in a really dark time and we really appreciate you coming on this journey with us. Special thanks to club members Steve Vargo and Matthew Y...
2021-12-0344 minCan I Ask You One Question?15. What Are 3 Scientific Ways to Make Staff Meetings More Productive? | Steven Rogelberg, PH.D.Meetings don't have to be boring and unproductive. Steve Rogelberg, author of The Surprising Science of Meetings, offers 3 ways to make your meetings more productive based on science and research.
2021-11-1609 minCan I Ask You One Question?14. How Do You Attract More Athletes to a Sports Vision Practice? | Interview with Dr. Amanda NanasyAccording to Dr. Amanda Nanasy, optometrists should be seeing athletes whether they are sports vision specialists or not. In this video, Dr. Nanasy lays out a 5-step process for attracting more athletes to your practice. Learn more about Dr. Nanasy at Floridasportsvision.com and also check out Sportsvisionpros.com for tons of great resources you can use.
2021-11-0208 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: Love’s Labour’s LostThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other human beings...
2021-10-183h 16
Think Again with Scott JensConsulting Services: Are They Right for Me?Guests: Steve Vargo and Mike RothschildSubscribe to GPN Visions for more content like this, delivered to your inbox about once a week
2021-10-1329 min
20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryCreating a win-win: Associate comp structures that work in optometry practicesWelcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is Nathan Hayes. This conversation is a follow up to the episode that Nathan and I did around partnership compensation structures. In that episode, Nathan in passing made a couple of comments around associate compensation structure and the feedback we received from that episode around that specific topic warranted its own show. In this episode, we talk about making sure that associates understand and acknowledge that there's risk in employing an associate, how to think about the demand of the schedule, give a range of market rates, share...
2021-10-1159 minCan I Ask You One Question?13. What are the 3 Biggest Financial Mistakes Practice Owners Make? | Adam CmejlaFinancial success is not just a process of doing the right things, it's also a process of avoiding the wrong things. Adam Cmejla, Founder & President of Integrated Planning and Wealth Management and host of 20/20 Money podcast discusses the 3 biggest financial mistakes practice owners make.
2021-09-2807 min
20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryAdding an associate: why, when, and how with Dr. Steve Vargo, ODWelcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is Dr. Steve Vargo. Steve joins me back on the show to talk about a certain growing pain that practice owners may eventually find themselves in and that's the idea of adding an associate to their practice. We tackle this conversation from two different viewpoints—the qualitative ("Is my practice ready for an associate?") and qualitative ("Do I want an associate and what am I solving for in my practice by adding an associate?"). We then dive into the details of how to craft a u...
2021-09-271h 04My Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: The Merry Wives of WindsorThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2021-09-103h 06Can I Ask You One Question?12. What Does the Younger Generation Expect From Their Optometrist? | Dr. Solomon GouldIf you're taking a one-size-fits-all approach with patients, you're likely creating a "disconnect" with certain patient demographics. Dr. Gould, an expert on this topic, shares some pearls on how to create a more customized experience for the younger demographic.
2021-08-3109 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: Titus AndronicusThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2021-08-293h 05
Steve Novotney Lives!Steve Novotney Lives! Ep. #61 - Vaccinations, Flooding, Live Music
Guests: Lou Vargo, Jon Banco, Josh Garrett
Lou Vargo, the director of the Wheeling-Ohio County Emergency Management Agency, will join me to discuss a number of different topics, including the immediate need for dispatchers for the 911 Center, the significant increase in positive cases of Covid-19 and the latest vaccination numbers, and the new Streetwise Program.
Lou and I will also talk about the process of gaining approval to be able to dredge creeks and streams in the county to help prevent future flash flooding.
Jon Banco is set to return for the weekly “Liner Notes” segment so he can announce his sch...
2021-08-051h 49Can I Ask You One Question?11. How Does a Busy Practice Find Time for HIPAA? | Interview with Matt DiBlasiA topic that comes up frequently in my conversations with doctors – opportunity cost. Doctors want more time for marketing, adding a specialty, staff training, etc. They get pulled in many directions that limit their ability to focus on important areas of growing the practice.
One of those "directions" is HIPAA compliance – very important, but not something that's going to grow a practice or differentiate you in the eyes of your patients.
In the interview, Matt DiBlasi (President of Abyde), shares his insights on HIPAA and strategies for improving office efficiencies.
2021-08-0311 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: Timon of AthensThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2021-07-032h 27Can I Ask You One Question?10. What's the Fastest Way to CONNECT With a Patient? | Interview with Erin O'MalleyMaking a human connection with patients is critical to patient care and the patient experience, but for busy doctors who bounce from room to room without a lot of time to "connect," what's a fast and effective way for health care professionals to bridge a human connections with the patients they serve?
In this episode, I ask Erin O'Malley. Erin works with teams and organizations to help build cultures of connection through bold communication. She's all about helping teams show up, engage, and connect.
2021-06-2908 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: The TempestThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2021-06-142h 17Can I Ask You One Question?9. How Do You Build a Following on Social Media? | Dr. Joseph AllenIn this episode, Dr. Joseph Allen (currently with over 370K subscribers on his YouTube channel) shares his insights on how to grab people's attention and grow a following on social media. Check out Dr. Allen's YouTube channel, Doctor Eye Health, by clicking HERE!
2021-06-0108 minCan I Ask You One Question?8. What Role Will Telemedicine Play in the Future of Optometry?In this episode, Dr. Mike Rothschild (CEO of Leadership OD) shares his insights and experience on the role of telemedicine in optometry and what applications it holds for the future of the eye care profession.
2021-05-1810 min
IDOC Focal Point PodcastCreating a Positive Work CultureIDOC is proud to announce that we recently won certification from Great Place to Work Institution, which measures employee satisfaction within their organization. Dr. Steve Vargo is joined by IDOC's CEO, Dave Brown, and VP of HR, Jill Johnson, to discuss the certification, how IDOC achieved this milestone, and how practice owners can use IDOC's experience to increase employee satisfaction in their office.
2021-05-1132 minSteve Novotney Lives!Steve Novotney Lives! Ep. #34 - Jon Banco, Dustin Kildow, Lou Vargo
Guests: Jon Banco, Dustin Kildow, Lou Vargo
“Liner Notes” is a weekly segment I do with my good friend Jon Banco so we can get the word out about what live and local entertainment will be available in the Wheeling area this weekend. We will discuss those shows, a few upcoming events, and what to look forward to when the Centre Market Concert Series begins in June.
Local musician Dustin Kildow will join us on the phone to tell us about his music and where he will be performing this weekend and in the future.
Several local officials have urged residen...
2021-05-061h 33IDOC Focal Point PodcastIntroducing IDOC HR NowIn this episode of the IDOC Focal Point Podcast, Consultants Dr. Steve Vargo and Amy Alvarez connect with members Dr. Todd Cohan and Erin DePhillippo to discuss HR Now - the new HR benefit that provides on-demand HR Support for your practice. Learn more about how HR Now is the benefit you need to cure the complications that arise with HR management in your practice.
2021-05-0615 minCan I Ask You One Question?7. What Does the Office Design of the Future Look Like? | Bill GerberIn this episode, Bill Gerber shares his insights on the office design of the future from a retail and design standpoint. Bill is founder and CEO of OMG (Optical Marketing Group) and Contentlinq, specializing in retail and design of optometric practices, digital signage and software/app development.
2021-05-0416 minCan I Ask You One Question?6: How Do You Market a Sports Vision Specialty? | Dr. Jennifer StewartIn this episode, Dr. Jennifer Stewart shares advice on how to market a sports vision specialty. Her story is one of persistence and diligence and not giving up. The lessons she shares can apply to any specialty you're interested in adding to your practice.
2021-04-2009 min20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryWhy "intentionality" is key to building a practice that serves you: my guest appearance on the IDOC Focal Point podcastOn this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is…me! This is a different solo episode of sorts, because it's actually the interview that I did for IDOC's Focal Point Podcast, hosted by Dr. Steve Vargo, OD. If you're interested in subscribing to Focal Point Podcast, the link is in the show notes of this episode. On this episode, Steve asked me to talk about how business and personal planning are integrated and why it's important to understand and be able to answer the question "In service of what?" and "What are you solving for?" wh...
2021-04-1238 minCan I Ask You One Question?5: What Ocular Disease Has the Largest ROI for an Optometric Practice? | Dr. Eric BottsIn this episode, I ask Dr. Eric Botts, CEO of OBC Billing Specialists, the following: What ocular disease has the biggest potential ROI and income growth for an optometric practice?
2021-03-3009 minSteve Novotney Lives!Steve Novotney Lives! Ep. #17 - Dr. Joe Greathouse, Ashley Dunlap, Bob Herron, Lou Vargo
Guests - Dr. Joe Greathouse, Ashley Dunlap, Wheeling City Manager Bob Herron, Ohio County and EMA Director Lou Vargo
Dr. Joe Greathouse, the director of Oglebay’s Good Zoo, will join me at the beginning of the show to let us know what we can expect at the facility this spring, summer, and fall.
Ashley Dunlap from the Wheeling Junior League will offer all the details about the upcoming Wheeling Feeling 5K Run and Walk.
What is the status of the Bluefield State College deal? When will the streetscape project get started? Will the Suspension Bridge ever reopen? Those are a few...
2021-03-261h 4020/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryBuilding your leadership team: how to remove yourself from day-to-day decision making in your officeOn this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is Dr. Steve Vargo. Steve joins me on the show to discuss a challenge and stepping stone that practice owners may eventually find themselves reaching: how to step out of their business and delegate leadership-type tasks and responsibilities to someone else on your team. Steve's experience not only as a practicing OD but also as a leadership consultant for IDOC gives him a very informed and well-rounded perspective on this challenge. He's a student of leadership develop and also an author on the topic (links below).
2021-03-2258 minCan I Ask You One Question?4: How Do You Increase In-house Contact Lens Sales? | Dr. Ryan GustusIn this episode, I ask Dr. Ryan Gustus (co-founder of lensquote, a software platform designed to increase in-house contact lens sales) what strategies he suggests for keeping more contact lens sales in-house.
2021-03-1612 minCan I Ask You One Question?3: How Do You Overcome Skepticism When Presenting New Technology to Patients? | Dr. Rick PetersonDr. Rick Peterson owns three practices in the Chicago area. He specializes in binocular vision and focusing disorders and one of the treatment options he offers patients is Neurolens. In this episode I ask Dr. Rick Peterson how he overcomes “healthy skepticism” when presenting new technology to patients, in particular Neurolens.
2021-03-0208 minCan I Ask You One Question?2: How Do You Present Myopia Management to Patients/Parents? | Dr. Andrew NeukirchIn this episode, I ask Dr. Andrew Neukirch (currently with over 200 kids in his myopia management program) how he presents this option to patients/parents.
2021-03-0108 minCan I Ask You One Question?1: What Are the Rules for Success on Social Media in 2021 | Dr. Alan GlazierIn this episode, I ask the founder of ODs on Facebook and social media guru Dr. Alan Glazier the following question: If you were opening a practice TODAY, where would you invest your time/effort?
2021-03-0109 min2021-02-2800 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastJoin Dr. Steve Vargo and His Special Guest, Certified Financial Planner Adam CmejlaJoin Dr. Steve Vargo as he welcomes special guest, Adam Cmejla who is a certified financial planner and the founder of Integrated Planning & Wealth Management. Learn how to build a successful business plan around your personal goals and how to be intentional with the income that is generated from your practice, as well as strategies on how to reduce the taxes you pay on the sale of your practice.
2021-02-2635 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastDr. Steve Vargo discussed OD fatigue with Dr. Saundra Dalton-SmithJoin Dr. Steve Vargo talks OD fatigue with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith. Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith was the keynote speaker at IDOC annual conference, Connection.
2021-02-0111 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastDr. Steve Vargo interviews Matt DiBlasi on new FTC RulingJoin Dr. Steve Vargo as he interviews Matt DiBlasi, president of Abyde, regarding the new FTC ruling around contact lenses.
2020-11-2316 min
The Positive Leadership MovementThe Most Common Leadership Mistakes & How To Fix Them in 5 Simple Steps w/Steve VargoLet’s face it, as leaders, we’re always making mistakes and they can be pretty painful when they’re out there for everyone to see. Certainly, none of us can ever be perfect, but there are some simple steps we can take to improve our leadership skills and develop more thriving teams. Join us as prolific author, Dr. Steve Vargo, shares his most effective leadership strategies based on over 20 years of clinical and organizational development experience.
2020-10-2132 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastSteve Vargo & Brian Moran Discuss LeadershipIDOC Practice Management Consultant, Dr. Steve Vargo welcomes NY Times best selling author, Brian Moran, to the latest IDOC Focal Point Podcast
2020-10-1318 min
Succeed in MedicinePrescribing Change with Steve Vargo, OD, MBASteve Vargo, OD, MBA, is an optometrist and author, who recently published the book, Prescribing Change: How to Make Connections, Influence Decisions and Get Patients to Buy into Change. He wrote this book in order to give clinicians the tools to be more impactful with getting patients to make changes that improve their vision, health, and quality of life. He discusses how to engage our patients through what he calls “non-sale selling” in order to gain their trust in order to influence their decision-making. He makes a case for the importance of using persuasion rather than just giving facts witho...
2020-10-0738 minMy Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: HamletThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other hum...
2020-09-243h 37My Entertainment WorldCorona Cold Reads: Comedy of ErrorsThese are crazy times and we’ve all taken on a bunch of new projects as we socially isolate in order to help stop the spread of Covid-19.
We’re donating where we can, we’re cleaning the pantry, we’re organizing the 2300+ title dvd library. We finished work on the Nominee Interview Series even though the live event for our yearly Critics’ Pick Awards had to be cancelled (we’ve still got trophies to give out, eventually). We started the Corona Movie Club to help curb our boredom and constant need to talk about movies with other h...
2020-09-031h 52IDOC Focal Point PodcastYour Staff and COVID-19Dr. Steve Vargo, IDOC Practice Management Consultant, is joined by Amy Alvarez, IDOC Human Resources Consultant, to discuss a topic that is top of mind of every OD owner - How do I handle COVID-19 concerns within my practice?
2020-08-2127 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastBecoming an Effective Leader with Special Guest, Kristen HadeedIDOC Practice Management Consultant, Dr. Steve Vargo, is joined by special guest, Kristen Hadeed, Founder of Student Maid and author of the well-received book on leadership: Permission to Screw Up. Listen to this edition of the Focal Point podcast and learn from two highly regarded, published authors on why it's OK to make mistakes, admit to them, and learn from the experience.
2020-08-1940 min
Four Eyes22. Prescribe Change and CONNECT with PatientsWe sit down with Dr. Steve Vargo to discuss his new book, Prescribing Change. The book's intention is to develop methods for optometrists to share information with their patients and have them ACT on it. We review his genius CONNECT method that navigates making connections with patients and influencing decision making. We highly recommend all ODs and OD students to purchase this book and learn how to become more successful both clinically and financially!Resources:1. Follow Dr. Steve Vargo on Instagram @dr.stevevargo2. Purchase the new book Prescribing Change: https://www.amazon.com...
2020-08-1942 minFour Eyes22. Prescribe Change and CONNECT with PatientsWe sit down with Dr. Steve Vargo to discuss his new book, Prescribing Change. The book's intention is to develop methods for optometrists to share information with their patients and have them ACT on it. We review his genius CONNECT method that navigates making connections with patients and influencing decision making. We highly recommend all ODs and OD students to purchase this book and learn how to become more successful both clinically and financially!Resources:1. Follow Dr. Steve Vargo on Instagram @dr.stevevargo2. Purchase the new book Prescribing Change: https://www.amazon.com...
2020-08-1942 min
Optometry: The Ultimate O.D.Are You Doing These 3 Things To Build Your Brand?- E5Are You Doing These 3 Things To Build Your Brand? - E5
Highlights from this episode:
Are you doing these 3 things to build your brand? (00:35)
Review of "Leading Off: CEO Challenge: Fail at Something" by Steve Vargo (19:04)
Review of "Move The Middle" by April Jasper (19:47)
Review of "Benefits of Staff Delegation: A Look at What Tasks to Hand Over to Staff, & Why" by Jennifer Stewart (21:21)
Myopia Management Journey (25:44)
In Episode 4 I talked about the nonverbal ways to communicate your brand in your office and THIS week I...
2020-08-1430 min
Try Not To BlinkBecoming a 5 Star DoctorRoya and Jimmy talk with Steven Vargo, optometrist, consultant, speaker and best selling author.SOURCES New Demodex Treatment https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tarsus-pharmaceuticals-announces-positive-results-of-the-mars-study-a-phase-2a-study-of-the-efficacy-and-safety-of-tp-03-to-treat-demodex-blepharitis-at-arvo-2020-virtual-meeting-301076483.htmlNew Port Treatment for AMD https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200526005912/en/Port-Delivery-System-Ranibizumab-Shows-Positive-PhaseDr. Steve Vargo www.drstevevargo.com Prescribing Change https://www.amazon.com/Prescribing-Change-Connections-Influence-Decisions-ebook/dp/B088MM7PPFIDOC www.IDOC.netMotivational interviewing https://www.stephenrollnick.com/20/20 Money Podcast Episode with Dr. Vargo https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-rethinking-your-patient-interaction-can-influence/id1438352481?i=1000477998785
2020-08-1052 min
Own Your AwkwardAwkward Coaching with Madonna Hanna and Marcus ChambersMadonna and Marcus and making strides together! Madonna Hanna is a retired fashion marketing educator and motivational speaker. She has received over 30 teaching awards and recognition. Highlights include: National Milken Award recipient selected by the U. S. Department of Education. She also received $25,000 with that award. She and her late husband, Steve Hanna, were recognized by late President George H. W. Bush, as a Point of Light; for the McCarver Bates Buddy program.
Their classes were selected for a presidential visit which was canceled due to a defeat by Bill Clinton. She has also received recognition from Firs...
2020-08-0529 min
The Optical Journal PodcastPrescribing Change - Dr. Steve VargoDaniel speaks with Dr. Steve Vargo, about his newest book, out this month, Prescribing Change: How to Make Connections, Influence Decisions and Get Patients to Buy into Change.
2020-07-3023 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastTop 5 Interview MistakesJoin IDOC Practice Management Consultant, Dr. Steve Vargo as he provides guidance on common interview mistakes and how to avoid making them.
2020-07-0611 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastKey Metrics Every Practice Should Be TrackingDr. Steve Vargo, IDOC Practice Management Consultant, interviews Evan Kestenbaum, COO of GPN Technologies & Founder of the EDGEPro™ by GPN Technologies, to discuss the most critical metrics every independent optometry practice needs to track.
2020-07-0622 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastQ&A HIPAA Compliance With Abyde's Matt DiBlasiDr. Steve Vargo, OD, MBA interviews Matt DiBlasi, President of Abyde on the topic of HIPAA compliance.
2020-07-0631 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastQ&A Tom Moseman, Envirosell - Why Do We BuyJoin Dr. Steve Vargo as he welcomes Tom Moseman of Envirsell to discuss consumer purchasing and the science of shopping.
2020-07-0634 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastWhat Sets Great Owners ApartJoin IDOC Consultants, Dr. Steve Vargo and Nathan Hayes as they discuss the commonalities they see amongst the highest performing practices.
2020-07-0635 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastNeurolens® With Dr. Rob SzeligaJoin Dr. Steve Vargo as he welcomes Dr. Rob Szeliga to discuss neurolens.
2020-07-0612 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastDr. Steve Vargo Interviews Dr. Paul LevineIDOC Member Paul Levine, OD discusses Orthokeratology and Myopia Control with Focal Point's Dr. Steve Vargo.
2020-07-0623 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastDry Eye Discussion With Dr. Kris MayIDOC Practice Management Consultant Steve Vargo, OD, MBA interviews Dry Eye specialist Dr. Kris May.
2020-07-0625 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastDr. Steve Vargo and Dr. Jaclyn Munson Discuss Preventative Eye CareJoin IDOC Practice Management Consultant, Dr. Steve Vargo, and IDOC member, Dr. Jaclyn Munson, from Fort Collins Family Eye Care, as they discuss the importance of preventative eye care.
2020-07-0536 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastIDOC's Consultant Dr. Steve Vargo and CEO Dave Brown on LeadershipJoin IDOC CEO Dave Brown and Practice Management Consultant Dr. Steve Vargo as they discuss adapting to change and the importance of leadership during the COVID-19 uncertainty.
2020-07-0509 minIDOC Focal Point PodcastPodcast Dr. Steve Vargo And Bill Gerber AudioJoin IDOC Practice Management Consultant, Dr. Steve Vargo, and Bill Gerber, founder, and CEO of OMG! Optical Marketing Group and Contentlinq as they discuss numerous topics related to Optical selling within the practice.
2020-07-0246 min20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryHow Rethinking Your Patient Interaction Can Influence Change and Improve Your Practice with Dr. Steve Vargo, ODHello, and welcome to this episode of 20/20 Money! My guest on today's show is Dr. Steve Vargo, OD. Steve has had a storied career in optometry, starting out as a clinician after graduating from ICO in 1998. His interest for business led him to earn his MBA and eventually land at IDOC in the role of a practice management consultant. Having had over 3,000 consultative conversations over the years, he's realized what every OD needs to know: we all have largely the same playing field. The difference, however, is in the execution of ideas and strategies, and it was in his...
2020-06-151h 07
"Jester" Section HikerCori Strathmeyer (Pajama Mama)Cori Strathmeyer, aka Pajama Mama, shares with Jester in today's episode why she decided to start section hiking the Appalachian Trail. Cori talks to us about how section hiking the AT went from a goal to a lifestyle for both her and her husband. We also hear about the newest member of her family; "Faith". Special thanks to Hostel Owners Tina from the Quarter Way Inn and Neville from Woods Hole Hostel for helping Jester answer a listener submitted question. Connect with Cori Strathmeyer: Blog - www.thespacebetweenblog.com
2020-02-2957 min
CCM Podcast (Central Coast Music)CCM 017 - Steve KeySteve Key is a singer-songwriter, recording artist, and music curator (Songwriters at Play) based in Shell Beach.
NOTE: Most of the previous guests on the podcast are a direct result of going to Steve's showcases!
Join us as we discuss moving from one coast to the other, how much talking to do before playing a song, and engaging with a music community.
Steve's album release party is Nov 22nd at Morro Bay Wine Seller. "How I Learned To Drink" is available now on streaming platforms.
2019-11-1359 min
Steve AllenSteve Allen Pres Uplift 046 With Music By Susana, Xijaro & Pitch, Dan Stone + MoreSteve Allen Pres Uplift 046
Every week, Steve Allen brings the very best of vocal and #Uplift
Want more like this, follow my "Uplift" Spotify Playlist - spoti.fi/2D3jAaB
Tracklist
1. Susana - Mend My Broken Heart (Extended Mix)
2. Amos & Riot Night vs Lifeline - Borders (Extended Mix)
3. The Cracken vs. Jackob Rocksonn - Adrenaline (Extended Mix)
4. XiJaro & Pitch with LightControl - Whispers Of Time (Extended Mix)
5. Baco - Fight The Fears (Extended Mix)
6. Dan Stone - Vargo (Extended Mix)
7. Nicholas Gunn feat. Alina Renae - Ill Always (Kaimo K Extended Mix)
8. Mart Sine & Natalie Gioia - Its Your Life...
2019-05-3056 min20/20 MONEY: The Business of OptometryManaging the Stress of Practice Ownership (and Life) with Dr. Steve Vargo, OD, MBAWelcome everybody to the first episode of the newly renamed/rebranded podcast "20/20 Money!" Since inception, this show has been called The Dose as it primarily discussed financial concepts and strategies that would apply to white coat professionals in the dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, and physician landscape. However, as we continued to record episodes, I started to realize that more and more of the content and ideas that we were discussing had a definite lean towards optometry…and as my presence as a wealth adviser in the optometric community continued to grow, I felt that it would be appropriate to rename an...
2019-04-0859 minThe Optical Journal PodcastDr. Steve Vargo - But I Don't SellDaniel speaks with Dr. Steve Vargo about his new book "But I Don't Sell"
2019-02-1425 min
INVISION Podcast With Dee CarrollINVISION Podcast with Dee Carroll (Episode 6): Dr. Steve VargoAs an eyecare business manager, how can you keep your staff motivated and doing the right things? What if "TGI Monday" become your staff mantra? Dee gets answers on these questions, and more, from Dr. Steve Vargo, a business consultant with IDOC and author of Eye on Leadership, An Optometrist’s Game Plan For Creating A Motivated and Empowered Team.
2019-02-1341 min
The Optical Journal PodcastEye On Leadership With Dr. Steve VargoDaniel speaks with Dr. Steve Vargo about his latest book, Eye On Leadership.
2018-10-0432 min