Shows
Sandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Masoud NafeyDr. Masoud Nafey is a technology expert who brings a wide array of views about how Optometry might utilize the tools at their discretion to best connect with the 21st century health and eye care consumer. He provides an excellent insight to how we might advance as a profession while the patients advance toward more of a consumerist approach to consuming their eye care. From a family of Afghan refugees, he has an incredible sense of the importance of education and shares why that has shaped his path in Optometry, following a wandering career of entrepreneurism that started in hi...
2025-05-2844 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Scott Harris ShapiroScott Harris Shapiro is a leader in the US optical business, as owner and CEO of Europa Eyewear. His parents started the business, which his father spoke of as a “people business,” and grew it from the ground up. Scott has a history of being in the public eye - spending time in his early years as a stand-up comedian and radio personality, from which he learned business insights that he still uses today. Ultimately his father’s passing brought him back to lead the family business, in which he partnered with his father’s long-time associate and best friend. Th...
2025-01-2939 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Sherrol ReynoldsDr. Sherrol Reynolds is full professor at NOVA Southeastern University College of Optometry. Her perspective about the power of mentorship and its influence on her, and how she now mentors others, is powerful. Her family emigrated from Jamaica and she grew up in Florida, where she considered becoming a physician but turned toward Optometry partly due to vision loss that hit her aunt. She is past president of the National Optometric Association and shares insights about the value of that organization to the profession. She is passionate about retinal care and education, and understands and supports the next generation of O...
2024-12-1751 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Dori CarlsonDr. Dori Carlson’s accomplishments in Optometry are stupendous, including a decade-plus of service to the American Optometric Association which culminated with her serving as the first female President of the AOA. Dr. Carlson has leveraged the values of her early days along with a commitment to continual personal and professional improvement to become an incredibly important part of the fabric of the profession.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:00 The Hobby Story
4:01 The Family Story
6:05 The Couple Building a Practice Story
12:02 The Growing Up in a Small...
2024-08-2754 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Steven LeeDr. Steven Lee grew up in Toronto, studied at the University of Waterloo, and attended the Illinois College of Optometry. A self-described “nerdy gadget guy,” he quickly became interested in disruptive technology that might support patients. He co-founded the company, Opternative, that eventually became quite controversial for its direct-to-patient care approach, and has had a career full of entrepreneurial journeys. Learn all of them in this episode!
The Stories within the Story include:
1:21 The Influence toward Science Story
2:42 The Toronto Upbringing Story
6:20 The Interest in Optometry Story
9:17 The Early Care...
2024-08-051h 11Sandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Linda CasserDr. Linda Casser has had a career of service — to three Colleges of Optometry, the National Board of Examiners in Optometry, the American Academy of Optometry, the American Optometric Association, and the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. Her career concluded with being granted Professor Emerita status in August 2022 from Salus University Pennsylvania College of Optometry. She’s an author, mentor, and industry leader, and someone I consider having established the bedrock foundation for modern Optometry. Dr. Casser has always championed the powerful, positive impact of women in Optometry.
Her many stories weave together to demon...
2024-06-171h 01Sandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Alan GlazierA 1993 graduate of NECO, Dr. Alan Glazier has spent a career in Optometry as an entrepreneur. He worked in his dad’s practice in his early days along with many other roles that found him starting businesses. He learned business insights along the way, and credits his height for his accomplishments. He self-taught to become a marketing expert, which led him to become the founder of the most prolific online community for Optometry, called ODs on Facebook. He’s an inventor, but also knows that failure is part of the road. Dr. Glazier built a fantastic private practice, and also went...
2024-05-1556 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories - Interview of Ed BuffingtonRaised on a rural farm in Maryland, Ed Buffington learned the lessons of hard work. These lessons translated into a tremendous career in the eye care industry, where he was the founder of OfficeMate software and today serves as CEO of GPN Technologies, the company that brings the EDGEPro data dashboard to eye care professionals. In March 2024, he was honored by Prevent Blindness as the 2024 “Person of Vision” in recognition of his incredible contributions.
Ed’s many stories cover his start as a contact lens rep, as well as the efforts to bring OfficeMate to the indus...
2024-03-0745 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Ann HoscheitDr. Ann Hoscheit is owner of EyeBridge Consulting Associates, after a long career in which she built two separate iconic eye care practices. She’s a graduate of the University of Houston College of Optometry. Dr. Hoscheit has been a trailblazer in women’s leadership in Optometry. She finds true joy and prosperity in Optometry, and through these many stories she hopes that her colleagues will also.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:11 The Midwestern Upbringing Story
3:29 The Mom’s Example Story
4:55 The Inspiration from Matthew Story
6:36 The Getting into O...
2024-01-2655 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories - Interview of Dr. Rick WeisbarthAn Ohio guy who thought he would remain there forever, Dr. Rick Weisbarth became an internationally respected Doctor of Optometry who supported the profession through his role in professional relations for Alcon Laboratories (and formerly CIBA VISION) as well as a lecturer on a variety of contact lens topics. He graduated from The Ohio State University College of Optometry and became connected with friends with whom he would provide career-long support of the American Academy of Optometry. One of his unique contributions was involvement in the National Academies of Practice, which is a multidisciplinary group working to support each ot...
2023-10-1157 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories Perspective - Building a Life Well-LivedScott shares four pearls to building and enjoying a life well-lived, which is aspirational and to which we will be judged by others some day in the future
2023-08-1505 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. John PotterDr. John Potter is a true treasure to the profession. A graduate of the Indiana University School of Optometry, he has been at the forefront of every major evolutionary step in Optometry over the last fifty years. After all of his time in Optometry, he used his intellectual basis to move into an entirely different career as an educator - now serving as clinical associate professor of dispute resolution and conflict management at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:20 The Gradeschool Essay Story
2:50 The IU Story
3:53...
2023-07-101h 17Sandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Vince BrandysDr. Vince Brandys has translated a Chicago upbringing in a family that served the community into a career in Optometry that has included deep involvement in professional advocacy. His words of encouragement to his colleagues to step up their support of the profession are to be heard by all.
2023-06-0139 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Perspective on Similarities between Optometry and Building a Spec HomeIn semi-retirement, I built a spec home in Orlando to get away from Wisconsin's winters. In this Sandbox Story, you'll get perspective of how my experiences taught me something about how optometry might better manage its business to focus on the expectations of its customers.
Run time: 7 min 30 sec
2023-03-2707 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Araba OtooDr. Araba Otoo received the 2022 Student of the Year Award from the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA.) She has started her practice career in a residency in the VA system, and is motivated to drive a global ocular wellness mindset into the profession. As a child in Ghana, she malingered to get glasses when she was very young. Her impressionable mind was pushed toward eyecare due to seeing her parents experience eye issues. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University College of Optometry and she also has an MPH from the University of Illinois - Chicago, all as a...
2023-02-1254 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview with Jay BinkowitzJay Binkowitz has used deep business acumen to drive a number of differentiated businesses into the eye care industry. His path into the optical business led to building the most powerful data dashboard in the industry, EDGEPro.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:01 The Upbringing Story
5:45 The Hustle Story
8:30 The Optical Story
14:28 The Software Story
22:08 The Consolidator Story
26:14 The Charity Story
30:19 The Best Advice Story
Runtime: 35 min.
2022-09-0634 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Lynn LawrenceLynn Lawrence is a career Optometric Technician, starting that role as part of a thirty-plus year career in the Air Force, and has built a consulting business for the eye care industry which teaches leadership. His commitment to the profession is to drive advancement through learning, certification, and thoughtful leadership.
The Stories within the Story Include:
1:08 The St. Louis Upbringing Story
3:38 The Family Military Service Story
6:20 The Deployment Story
10:49 The Ophthalmic Technician Story
14:52 The AOA Certification Story
21:23 The Mental Health Story
25:11 The Leadership Consulta...
2022-08-0834 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Bob LaymanDr. Bob Layman has been the AOA President from June 2021 through June 2022. This interview is the first one done with a sitting President of the AOA, and some of his best views are shared about how optometry must be politically thoughtful and mindful to stay successful. Most importantly, Bob’s true humility and drive toward service shines through.
The Stories within the Story Include:
1:16 The Toledo Story
2:43 The Mental Health Story
5:11 The Path to Optometry Story
8:23 The OSU Optometry Story
9:33 The Optometry Volunteerism Story
11:01 T...
2022-06-0628 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. NateLighthizerA North Dakotan, Dr. Nate Lighthizer has an incredible story about how he grew up doing fishing trips with his family, as well as participating in sports as a kid. After graduating from Pacific University College of Optometry, he advanced his career to his current position on faculty at Northeastern State University College of Optometry in Tallequah, OK. Dr. Lighthizer has had a tremendous impact on the profession by leading national courses on advanced optometric procedures, and his many Stories give motivation to all of us to continue to pursue higher levels of patient care.
The...
2022-05-0926 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Lex HendrixSimply put, Lex is a deeply caring human being. I've never met anyone, young or old, who is as able to connect with others as Lex does. He's autistic, transgender, and loving. This Sandbox Story has life lessons in it for every one of us.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:11 The Disney College Program Story
3:33 The Kentucky Upbringing Story
5:05 The Being Autistic Story
9:12 The Power of Identity-First Language Story
14:36 The Transgender Person Story
21:49 The Future Educator Story
24:07 The Mister Rogers Story
2022-03-1743 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Sue CotterDr. Sue Cotter is faculty at the Southern California College of Optometry, on the Board of the American Academy of Optometry, and co-chair of the Pediatric Eye Disease Investigator Group of the NIH. This Sandbox Story covers her views on optometric education as well as gives insights on her life's joys.
The Stories Within the Story Include:
0:58 The PMMA Lenses Story
3:44 The Educator Story
8:56 The Education Advancement Story
10:43 The SCCO Story
12:12 The Research Story
15:11 The Residency Story
19:30 The Travel Story
22:14 The...
2022-02-1130 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Laura PerimanFrom humble beginnings in Montana, to becoming a preeminent ophthalmologist on the new frontier of dry eye management, Dr. Laura Periman’s many stories are incredibly motivational. And as a human, rarely will you hear someone who is has as much empathy for others.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:24 The Montana Story
3:50 The Motivation Story
6:48 The Medicine Story
9:29 The Insurance Story
12:44 The Instagram Story
13:30 The Pacific Northwest Story
14:05 The Sense of Home Story
15:19 The Survivor Story
18:17 The Working Together Sto...
2022-01-1045 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Optical Women‘s AssociationThis Sandbox Story is an interview of some of the leaders of the Optical Women’s Association, OWA. Guests include Deb Bulken, Janelle Pauli, and Dr. Lorie Lippiatt. Despite their long-standing history, they are a “best-kept secret” in the industry, and they deserve to be well-known and supported because of their powerful impact.
To join OWA: https://www.opticalwomen.com/join.asp
To contribute: https://www.opticalwomen.com/individual-contributors.asp
The Stories within the Story include:
1:47 The Value of the OWA Story
6:13 The Mentor Story
12:29 The Passion Stor...
2021-12-2144 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Janene SimsDr. Janene Sims is on Faculty at the University of Alabama-Birmingham School of Optometry. She works with the Community Eyecare Initiative, an outreach service of the School, and has a tremendous commitment to humanity.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:00 The Farming Story
8:22 The Eyecare Motivation Story
10:00 The Advanced Education Story
11:47 The Community Support Story
14:20 The UAB Community Eyecare Team Story
17:03 The Recognition Story
18:01 The Communication Story
19:18 The EyeCare4Justice Story
24:06 The Singing Story
25:23 The Recruitment Story
2021-11-2927 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Thanks for InspirationsThis short Sandbox Story sends a message of thanks for life's many inspirations. Included is a wish for us to take control of our lives from the negative effects of social media. Happy Thanksgiving!
2021-11-2303 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Perspective on SleepIn this Sandbox Story perspective piece, I review the key takeaways from the book, “Why We Sleep”, by Matthew Walker, PhD.
2021-11-1607 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Kelly NicholsDr. Kelly Nichols is Dean of the School of Optometry at the University of Alabama-Birmingham and the current President of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. Hear her many stories including advice for ODs to implement management of dry eye disease care in their practices.
2021-11-0929 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Dr. Richard Mangan, on the topic of Provider BurnoutRichard Mangan, OD, FAAO, is a 30-year industry clinician who now does medical liaison work for Sun Pharma, and is also on the editorial board of ModernOD. As someone who has studied the research on physician burnout, Dr. Mangan gives insights on his experiences with burnout, as well as potential methods to deal with it. As October winds down the recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this Sandbox Story looks to remind the eye care professions of the importance of self-care and emotional wellness.
Resources:
Dr. Mangan’s recent article on burnout: https://moderno...
2021-10-2818 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Moes NasserDr. Moes Nasser is a philanthropic, globally-minded Optometrist. From his family history, starting in India and then in Africa, to his successful practice in Houston, to his contributions to Optometry Giving Sight, Dr. Nasser’s stories are sure to inspire.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:04 The Tanzania Story
6:04 The Childhood Vision Story
12:31 The Early Career Mindset Story
14:16 The Family Story
17:25 The Optometry Giving Sight Story
25:15 The Pearls of Success Story
32:20 The Love of America Story
37:20 The Optometry Threats Story
2021-09-2848 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Pierre BertrandPierre Bertrand is an industry veteran and has an incredible ability to tell meaningful stories. His current role is with Neurolens. Learn about his upbringing in Montreal, as well as what his grasp of fear has taught him.
2021-09-1341 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Brittany AmmermanThis Sandbox Story features Brittany Ammerman, a fourth year student at the Penn State College of Medicine. Her story is shared to show my Optometry colleagues the path of an enterprising young woman who was influenced to pursue medicine. Brittany’s stories are compelling - some are very relatable - and others are simply fascinating, including the story about how an outreach trip to Africa to focus on women’s health led her to found a women’s soccer league in Kenya which resulted in the recognition with the NCAA Hockey Humanitarian Award in 2015. “Sports, health, and women’s empowerment”...
2021-08-3158 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Howard PurcellOne word describes Dr. Howard Purcell - passionate. In this Sandbox Story, you will learn about his passion for optometry, fellow optometrists, music, and family. I caught up with Dr. Purcell earlier in the summer when his schedule at the College became lighter, and we covered a variety of his views on optometric education, as well as his efforts in the optometry industry sector. He’s a leader, and this interview includes clear evidence and examples from which the audience can learn.
The Stories within the Story include:
0:52 The Generational Story
5:32 The Optometry Decisio...
2021-08-2446 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Justin BazanDr. Justin Bazan is a recognized optometry leader on topics of disruptive, insightful business operations and social media strategies for eye care businesses. In this Sandbox Story, he shares insights about his life experiences that have led him to where he is today, and also pearls of advice about how to contemplate the future of practice.
The Stories inside the Story include:
0:55 The Upbringing Story
4:30 The Wanderlust Story
5:22 The Becoming an OD Story
11:50 The Practice Story
21:03 The Social Media Story
30:32 The Younger ODs Story
2021-08-1044 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Stephanie Johnson-BrownDr. Stephanie Johnson-Brown practices in Chicago, IL. She joined the practice of her late father, who had the foresight to build a clinic that not only served the community through primary eye care services, but also via a not-for-profit entity that assured that all children could be given the opportunity to vision therapy. She talks about her time in leadership of the National Optometric Association (NOA), as well as her nephew, Larry Fitzgerald, who attributed his time in vision therapy to the development of his focus and coordination. Also included is her sage advice about how to observe and com...
2021-08-0448 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - EHR Thoughts from an EHR GuyEHR vendors are not eager to more deeply integrate with important third-parties that eye care businesses want to utilize. That is shameful, and it's time for it to change. Here are my thoughts, along with a little history of how I got involved in EHR during my career.
2021-08-0214 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Brianna RhueDr. Brianna Rhue is the Co-founder and CEO of DrContactLens, an emerging practice performance software system. Her commentary includes a review of her practice of myopia management, as well as personal stories including how yoga has transformed her. Dr. Rhue and Sandbox Stories host, Dr. Scott Jens, take turns pointing out the critical need for EHR vendors to better provide access to a practice’s patient information so third-party applications can be used by practice owners to improve their businesses.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:15 The Early Influence Story
2:21 The Spouse S...
2021-07-2854 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of 2021 GraduatesRemember the first time you were called “Doctor”? This Sandbox Story kicks off with the pure joy of a new grad being called “Doctor” for the first time, and then wanders through a variety of topics that help highlight the rigor of today’s Optometric education, as well as the preparation that new graduates make as they begin their careers as a Doctor of Optometry. From student debt insights, to the power of a pre-career mentor, everyone will gain incredible insights. The guests are 2021 graduates of the Illinois College of Optometry - Dr. Kim Fazio, and Dr. Chelsea Goodman.
2021-07-2032 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Nikki IravaniThis is a Sandbox Story Interview of tech entrepreneur, Dr. Nikki Iravani. She developed the Eyexam app and continues to be on the cutting edge of eye care service. She is also on the Board of "Women in Optometry", and has an incredible set of family stories.
The Stories within the Story:
1:08 The Iran Story
6:04 The Influence Story
11:17 The OD Women Story
12:15 The Family Story
17:00 The Boards Story
25:12 The Eyexam Story
Runtime: 40 min
2021-07-0740 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Marge AxelradMarge Axelrad is a true journalistic leader in the eye care industry. As Senior Vice President and Editorial Director of Vision Monday, VMAIL, and 20/20, she has had a special perspective on the stories in eye care for over thirty years. Learn about her psychology background, her appreciation for rock ’n roll, and deep love of her family and friends.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:12 The Fun Fact Story
2:45 The Traveler Story
5:04 The Pandemic Getaway Story
6:54 The Psychology Story
12:07 The Interesting People Story
15:55 The Eyecare...
2021-06-1741 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Andrea ThauDr. Andrea Thau is a committed optometry volunteer - having served as AOA President, as well as driving a new leadership concept. She has also promoted the value of regular eye care services in her work with the American Public Health Association. She is a compassionate, caring person who constantly cares about the wellness of others.
The Stories within the Story:
0:53 The Swimmer Story
2:02 The Ballet Story
3:44 The Movie Credit Story
4:53 The AOA President Story
8:41 The Mentoring Story
11:14 The Father OD Story
13:34 ...
2021-06-1050 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Nwamaka NgoddyA residency-trained optometrist, Dr. Nwamaka Ngoddy practices in retail optometry locations in Atlanta. Dr. Ngoddy created the Anwuli Eyewear line of frames and is making strong headway, despite it being the hardest thing she has ever done. As a first generation Nigerian-American, she cares deeply for the community that her family has been a part of, and she has actively helped others through the Nigerian Youth Alliance. This interview includes a discussion of the importance of finding impactful mentors and also mentoring others.
The Stories within the Story:
1:01 The Practice Story
2:27 The Pat...
2021-06-0343 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Richard CastilloDr. Richard Castillo has committed his career to Optometry - he is an educator at Northeastern State University College of Optometry in Tallequah, OK, and many in his family have gone down the optometry path. He expanded his professional abilities by also getting an MD and doing a residency in ophthalmology. Learn about his perspective on the advancement of optometry and his efforts to educate optometry students and optometrists, alike.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:22 The Optometry Family Story
3:25 The Tulsa Story
6:33 The OD and MD Story
10:25 The Oklaho...
2021-05-2849 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Ken LawendaDr. Ken Lawenda is a lifelong optometry volunteer, and brings a unique perspective having served on a number of optometry regulatory boards. From his Bronx upbringing, to his work in photography, his many stories are quite enjoyable.
(Apologies for slight audio imperfection in the first 45 seconds!)
The Stories within the Story include:
1:10 The Montreal Story
2:29 The Family Story
3:18 The Ongoing Education Story
6:06 The Technology Disruption Story
9:58 The New York Story
11:28 The Optometry School Story
13:39 The Practice Story
17:06 The Optome...
2021-05-2144 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Millicent KnightDr. Millicent Knight was born and raised and Optometry trained in Chicago. After running an incredibly successful private eye care practice, she today serves as SVP of the Customer Development Group at Essilor. These many Stories cover her upbringing, her commitment to strong parenting, and many insights that an Optometrist will appreciate.
The Stories within the Story include:
0:57 The High School Story
1:58 The Physician Husband Story
3:54 The Father Story
5:28 The Threat Story
10:05 The Chicago Upbringing Story
12:40 The Athletics Story
14:37 The College Travel Stor...
2021-05-1452 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - My Most Impactful PatientMr. Erwin Deutsch was born in Germany, where in his teen years his Jewish family endured the awful impact of Nazi rule. He entered the concentration camp at Buchenwald, yet made it out after a month of despairing experiences. As a patient, he shared his time as we discussed his many experiences, for which I am forever grateful. He was a positive, powerful, thoughtful man. In this Sandbox Story, you will learn his life’s stories, including special perspective brought by his daughter, Renate Bennett, and granddaughter, Tamara Braun.
Runtime: 36 min
2021-05-1036 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 10 - Eye Care in a FedEx StoreThis Sandbox Story brings the perspective that I gained when I recently visited a FedEx store. Not only did I get a very strong experience in customer service, but I also was leaned upon for some eye advice. Every Eye Care Professional should take in opportunities to be in support of their neighbors, but also must always be on the lookout for great customer experience examples that they can share with their staff. When these actions are done with great thought, it’s how eye doctors can grow their businesses.
Runtime: 6 min
2021-05-0406 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Mr. Dave BrownMr. Dave Brown is the President and CEO of the doctor-alliance group, IDOC. Learn about his efforts to develop a leadership mentality through a trusting, listening approach, as well as his use of mindfulness to become the best leader he can be. And be sure to watch for video of his participation in an 1980 television commercial!
The Stories within the Story include:
1:05 The J&J Story
2:20 The IDOC Story
3:31 The Understanding Optometry Story
4:45 The Private Equity Story
8:56 The Advisory Strategy Story
14:17 The Stonehenge Story...
2021-04-2644 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Jacobi CleaverDr. Jacobi Cleaver is an inspiring Doctor of Optometry - an identical twin with a tremendous number of family stories, as well as an eye doctor in Baylor's community health center system. Learn about his commitment to increasing participation in Optometry by Black high school and college students through Black EyeCare Perspective.
The Stories within the Story:
0:58 The Texas Upbringing Story
4:54 The Twin Story
8:26 The Go-Kart Story
10:20 The Parents Story
14:09 The Path to Optometry Story
15:30 The Resiliency Story
19:19 The Community Health Center Story
...
2021-04-2052 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story "Short" - Self-PromotionThis "Short" Sandbox Story speaks to the want to achieve a broader audience, with recognizing and appreciating those who have supported Sandbox Stories distribution to date.
2021-04-1604 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Kenji HamadaDr. Kenji Hamada has served Optometry, the United States of America, and his communities with the greatest of commitments. This Sandbox Story tells his many stories of business and personal success.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:05 The Sharing Story
3:17 The Helen Keller Camp Story
7:43 The Music Recording Story
8:50 The Japan to California Story
13:50 The US Army Story
16:34 The Oregon Practice Story
19:12 The Optometry Volunteer Story
21:49 The Giving Back Story
23:39 The OOGP Story
28:45 The Retirement Story
2021-04-1240 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Mr. Gregg FowlerMr. Gregg Fowler is another guest who isn’t a Eye Care Professional. He has spent his career working for industry vendors, doing incredible behind-the-scenes work to improve eye care practice, and he is also an eye care patient whose story will impress anyone. More than anything, he shares a viewpoint of the power of eye care services that every ECP and eye clinic employee needs to hear.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:11 The Small Town Upbringing Story
3:05 The Brothers Story
4:30 The Movie Quotes Story
7:02 The Dad’s Say...
2021-04-0749 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Larry DeLucasDr. Larry DeLucas is the only Optometrist to have ever flown on the Space Shuttle - and that's enough reason to check out this Sandbox Story. With two doctorate degrees and a deep knowledge base about the importance of optometry and science, you will thoroughly enjoy this episode!
2021-03-3145 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 9 - Being WrongAdmitting that you are wrong is difficult. Perhaps getting to the psychologic basis for this difficulty can help you become better at it, because none of us are right all the time. Let me tell you about my challenges, so you can grow with me.
2021-03-2905 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Eric Baas and Dr. Robert SteinmetzThis Sandbox Interview delivers really fantastic perspective from two ODs who have built their own practices and also helped build practices for others. Dr. Eric Baas and Dr. Robert Steinmetz are owners of iCare Advisors, a cold-start facilitation business. They are both from families who had educators in them, which shaped them to be incredible guiders of others. Check this out as they share their point of view about practice financing, the impact of private equity-backed consolidation on private practice of optometry, and the importance of being involved with family and friends.
The Stories within the S...
2021-03-2348 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Jim WachterDr. Jim Wachter is the Chief Professional Officer of EyeCare Partners, created by the private equity group, FFL, in 2015 as a derivative from the large practice built by his partner and him; today they operate over 400 locations. From Dr. Wachter’s experienced perspective, learn how business management concepts in a large, geographically diverse practice can apply to smaller practices.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:26 The Interest in Optometry Story
2:37 The Residency Story
5:08 The Private Practice Story
7:42 The Private Equity-Backed Practice Story
12:24 The Call Center Value Stor...
2021-03-1630 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 8 - Born Out of the AshesHave you learned how to find jewels in a pile of rubble? When things go bad, can you identify the silver lining? If you think you are doing well, but eventually identify that you aren’t, are you self-aware enough to figure out how to improve? In this Sandbox Story, you will get an example of how a company reversed its path to demise in the 1970’s by taking older technology to save their business - the result being an amazingly simple household instrument. And from that, you can contemplate negative situations in your practice and decide how you can make...
2021-03-0907 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Lisa WadeDr. Lisa Wade is an optometry educator who truly believes in a life of giving back. She has motivated the last few “next generations” of optometry school students at Southern College of Optometry, currently serving as Director of the Hayes Center for Practice Excellence. In this interview, she shares how understanding psychology will help a practice drive the platinum rule of patient care. The most amazing part of the story is her “other business” story - buying a Harley-Davidson dealership and growing it to a worldwide leader by employing the same business principles as she learned in her years at SCO. Th...
2021-03-0456 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Art EpsteinAs a psychology major in college, Dr. Art Epstein has a sincere interest in people and he has used it to serve optometry in so many ways. From serving as Editor to the digital newsletter, Optometric Physician, to his days as national media spokesperson for the AOA, Art has used his communication skills to improve the state of the profession. In this interview, you will experience his stories -- about ham radio, his parents immigration to the US and the impact of the Holocaust on them, his journey to running a practice with his wife -- and through all of...
2021-02-2549 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 7 - Birth Order and RelationshipsEach dynamic that affects a business team can be assessed for impact. In this Sandbox Story, the concept of “birth order” is examined. When a business leader considers the birth order of their business partners and co-workers, insight can be gained that helps understanding conflicts and anticipating outcomes.
2021-02-2207 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Jim SandefurDr. Jim Sandefur represents the legacy generation of Optometrists that have worked so very hard to make optometry what it is today. He proudly lives in the small town of Oakdale, LA, and shares stories about his family cabin, his time as Executive Director of the state Association, and his time in practice when refraction fees started at $5. Jim brings a strong point of view on the importance of organized optometry and the power of the optometry practice law in Louisiana. Every optometrist, especially those under 40 years old, should soak in the words of Dr. Sandefur.
T...
2021-02-1922 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Jim McGrannAn IT guy by training, Jim McGrann moved into the eye care space with Marchon, then bringing in OfficeMate, and ultimately becoming the Global CEO of VSP. Now as part of a “next generation” buying group, called Healthy Eyes Advantage, Jim continues his pursuit of supporting eye care businesses. Jim is another “first-born” guest on Sandbox Stories, telling the story of his large family and his dad working seven days a week as he grew up. Learn about his involvement as a business leader in a CEO Council, and a time when he got called out by Sen. Elizabeth Warren in a...
2021-02-1255 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Essence JohnsonDr. Essence Johnson represents the essence of optometry. In this Sandbox Story, learn about the experience she has had through practicing medical eye care, how it was to be brought up in a military family, and hear her special story about the one and only time that her Mom told her “no”. She also talks about the insights she learned attending a Historically Black College/University (HBCU), as well as a pre-optometry club to promote the profession to people of color.
The Stories within the Story:
0:47 The Being an Example Story
3:48 The Parkla...
2021-02-0249 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 6 - The Destiny StoryThis is a SPECIAL EDITION of Sandbox Stories in which I give the overview of my path to, and through, optometry. Unlike other Stories, I took the advice of many of my colleagues to free-form my presentation, and this is a real presentation “from the heart.”
Included are many different parts of the journey, including my early desire to be in optometry, how I searched for a practice, the appreciation for my father-in-law’s support to buy a practice, my mentors and experiences in optometry and through volunteer roles, and the backstory of my interest in custom...
2021-01-2512 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Lou ProbstThis episode of Sandbox Stories profiles the first ophthalmologist to be interviewed, Dr. Lou Probst. Lou brings his thoughtful approach to a wide variety of topics, including deep insights on his views on the power of optometric co-management of refractive surgery patients which he helped drive as the National Medical Director of TLC Laser Eye Centers. You will also learn about his appreciation and respect of his wife’s work as a radiologist, and an incredible story about his swimming accomplishments (including video of an incredible feat he accomplished with other master swimmers.)
The Stories withi...
2021-01-1848 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 5 - What Optometry can Learn from PelotonPeloton is a highly disruptive business that is driving a consumer experience not previously seen. This Story delivers three important take-aways from the Peloton model that can be applied to optometry.
2021-01-1307 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Nana OwusuThis Sandbox Interview is the first with a Canadian Optometrist - Dr. Nana Owusu. Learn about his family’s interesting move from Ghana to Canada, as well as the incredibly interesting meeting of his future wife when they were both taking optometry school interviews. From football to family to an in-depth discussion on the importance of diversity in optometry, Nana shares incredible insights.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:01 The Canadian Optometry Update Story
2:45 The Ghana-to-Canada Story
5:10 The Education Dedication to Mom Story
7:50 The Family Story
11:42 The Acci...
2021-01-1051 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories "Short" - Year-end GratitudeAs 2020 closes, it's time to share thanks with the Sandbox Stories community. Here's to a more uplifting 2021!
2020-12-3003 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Kristie NguyenThis Sandbox Story is an interview with Dr. Kristie Nguyen, an optometrist whose path has been substantially different than most. After her family left Vietnam when she was a few months old, she pursued an aggressive academic process through her Doctor of Optometry degree, she has made an incredibly diverse life. In this Story, you will learn about the organization Optometry Divas, Kristie’s approaches to social media, her large family with one sibling having tuberous sclerosis and another with Down Syndrome, and how she practices self-care.
The Stories within the Story include:
0:54 The Oldest Child...
2020-12-2635 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 4 - The SandboxEach of us has a story of someone who motivated, compelled, and inspired us to pursue our dreams. Within that story is some common thread that unifies the various tales and becomes the basis for the story. In this episode of Sandbox Stories, learn the stories behind the story of Sandbox.
Runtime: 8 min
2020-12-2107 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview with the Illinois College of Optometry about COVID-Era Management of Clinical and Academic ProcessesThis is a truly special Sandbox Story, wherein five faculty members from ICO speak to their unique perspective of the College’s management of optometric education, clinical processes, and student affairs matters that needed to evolve due to the impact of COVID on American society. Not only will you learn insights and perspectives about the temporarily modified state of optometric education, but the video podcast includes behind-the-scenes photos and video of activities at the College and its clinic, the Illinois Eye Institute.
Speakers include these Doctors of Optometry:
Dr. Nora Kuby
Dr...
2020-12-181h 24Sandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 3 - Applying THE INFINITE GAME to the Business of OptometryThis Story summarizes the 2020 book by Simon Sinek, THE INFINITE GAME, which teaches business leaders about how to rethink their business journey to one that is not short-sighted. After an in-depth summary of the book and sharing examples of how its lessons can be applied to the business of optometry, Scott tells the story and looks back on how he applied THE INFINITE GAME’s key elements to his software business - before the book was even published!
Runtime: 11 min
2020-12-1011 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Charles BrownlowChuck Brownlow is the most influential optometrist on my career. This episode is filled with stories from a humble Midwestern OD who has truly inspired thousands of his colleagues, this Story includes dozens of anecdotes and key insights. A proud grandfather, accomplished pilot, and now, a book author, you will find Chuck’s stories to be fascinating and impactful.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:15 The Grandchildren Story
2:15 The Aviation Story
9:00 The 1971 Graduate Story
14:17 The Profession Expansion Story
17:55 The Optometry Volunteerism Story
25:20 The Vic C...
2020-12-0256 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories “Short”: Listener FeedbackThis Sandbox Story "Short" aims to share some listener feedback - and invites expanded awareness via sharing!
2020-12-0102 min
Sandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories - Interview of Dr. Adam RamseyAdam Ramsey is a frame designer, book author, and advocate for increased commitment to diversity and equity for Black people in Optometry. In this Sandbox Story, he shares views on parenthood, building a practice with a focus on patient education, and his Black eye care perspective.
The Stories within the Story include:
0:50 The Unconditional Love Story
3:18 The Immigrant Story
9:15 The Giving Back Story
13:02 The Patient Education Story
24:08 The Black Eyecare Perspective Story
30:40 The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Story
39:05 The Warm Start-up Story
2020-11-2350 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories - Interview of Dr. Jennifer StewartFeaturing the many stories of Dr. Jennifer Stewart, a driven optometrist who compels other women optometrists to seek their highest ambitions. Dr. Stewart also shares interesting stories about her life as a performance athlete, taking on eye care delivery in a specialized sports vision practice, being a believer in Disney business principles, and living a business life that is guided by a principled and data-driven approach to business leadership and management.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:05 The Athlete Story
5:30 The Sports Vision Practice Story
12:15 The Guest Experience Story
14:25 The...
2020-11-1840 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story 2 - The Slow and Hard Built-up of BusinessThis Story offers a perspective on the importance of demonstrating a willingness to allow for the slow, long, hard build-up of great business ideas. Concepts discussed include the payoff that comes from patient perseverance, and the critical need to be willing to shift mindset when curveballs come your way on the long journey toward success. As a bonus, Scott offers an interesting backstory on the build-up of the software company that he co-founded.
2020-11-1109 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Story - Interview of Dr. Ali KhoshnevisThis is the inaugural Interview of Sandbox Stories. The special guest is Dr. Ali Khoshnevis.
The Stories within the Story include:
1:05 The New Parent Story
2:30 The Iran Story
9:00 The Charlotte, NC, Story
11:45 The Optometry Story
13:50 The Residency Story
15:25 The DUSN Story (Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis)
18:45 The Tech Entrepreneur Story
27:15 The Patient Engagement Story
31:25 The Zero Moment of Truth Story
35:25 The Storyteller Story
2020-11-0438 minSandbox Stories - The PodcastSandbox Stories 1 - What Optometry can Learn from Discount TireListen to this episode to examine the many ways that optometry can learn about better customer service from my experience at a discount tire chain.
2020-11-0308 min