Defocus Media Podcast Network Defocus Media Podcast Network

In the latest episode of the Depth Perception podcast, we explore the critical topic of speaking up in different contexts such as work, negotiations, and advocacy. The discussion underscores the importance of voicing one’s opinions for personal and professional growth, offering practical advice and sharing personal experiences. We delve into negotiation strategies, the power of manifestation, and the necessity for diversity and equality within the profession. Additionally, we address the challenges of speaking up, highlighting the significance of planning and confidence.

Welcome to an enlightening episode, join Dr. Darryl Glover as he sits down with Dr. Nikki Earich to explore the groundbreaking initiatives of Optometry Giving Sight. From empowering communities with sustainable eye care solutions to the profound impact of correcting refractive errors worldwide, this episode uncovers how a passion for optometry and education is changing lives. Whether you’re an optometry professional or simply curious about the transformative power of vision care, you won’t want to miss this inspiring conversation. Get ready to discover how small actions, like providing a pair of glasses, can make a monumental difference in people’s lives across the globe.















Key Topics :Who is Nikki Earich? Mission and Initiatives of Optometry Giving SightThe Importance of Sustainable Vision CareGlobal and Local Impact ProjectsFunding and Donation InitiativesFinal Thoughts and Contact Information







Who is Nikki Earich?







Dr. Darryl Glover:







We talk about changing the game, and you’re really doing that by helping people see day in and day out. But before we get too far, I like to know who I’m talking to. Can you share a bit about yourself, where you’re from, a fun fact, and how you got into your current position? Let’s kick it off, Nikki.







Dr. Nikki Earich:







Sure, thanks for having me. Like many in our industry, I originally wanted to be a rock and roll star. While in law school, I started working at my dad’s optometry practice and loved it—helping patients and picking out glasses. My mom and I decided to open an optical shop next to my dad’s practice when the space became available. My brother joined, and we eventually opened multiple stores, which were later acquired by MyEyeDr.







I continued in the industry, consulting and training other practices. I also ran a nonprofit in the education space in my community. About a year ago, I found this role that combines my passion for optometry and education, focusing on addressing uncorrected refractive error.







Mission and Initiatives of Optometry Giving Sight







Dr. Darryl Glover:







So, let’s break down Optometry Giving Sight. Earlier, I mentioned some alarming stats: 80% of visual impairments globally are preventable, with 90% of those in developing countries, and the number one cause being uncorrected refractive errors. How does Optometry Giving Sight address this issue? You’ve done an incredible job, raising nearly a million dollars through training, establishing clinics, and delivering care. Could you give us an overview of each of these pillars and walk us through what it looks like?







Dr. Nikki Earich:







Absolutely. First, let’s clarify our mission. Optometry Giving Sight is exactly what our name implies: it’s about providing vision care through optometry. We aim to be a vehicle for anyone in the optometry field—whether you’re an OD, a student, an optician,

What happens when an innovative optometrist takes on the world of entrepreneurial challenges? Meet Dhruvin Patel, the visionary founder and CEO of Ocushield. Starting with blue light blocking products, his journey led him from the spotlight of Dragon’s Den to the grandeur of Buckingham Palace, where he was honored by King Charles. In this captivating episode, Dhruvin recounts the highs and lows of building Ocushield and shares insights into their expanding vision solutions. Join us for an inspiring story of perseverance, innovation, and royal recognition.

Creating a Dry Eye Center involves addressing a common ocular condition. It requires specialized knowledge, advanced equipment, and a collaborative approach. With dry eye disease affecting millions, establishing a dedicated center can significantly enhance patient care and expand your practice. Here’s a streamlined guide to creating a successful Dry Eye Center.







In the latest episode of the Defocus Media Podcast, Dr. Darryl Glover sits down with the remarkable Dr. Kristen Brown, an optometrist and the Chief Operating Officer and Partner of EyeWell, to discuss her innovative approach to building a Dry Eye Center. From her early career in California to her groundbreaking work on the East Coast, Dr. Brown has been at the forefront of dry eye treatment. In this episode, she shares her journey, the challenges she faced, and the strategies she employed to create a successful Dry Eye Center. Dr. Brown’s insights offer valuable guidance for eye care professionals looking to enhance their practice with specialized dry eye care.







With EyeWell, optometrists can refer patients to a state-of-the-art facility with the most advanced technologies. This allows them to help more patients and grow their practices without any new investment. EyeWell enables practitioners to focus on what they love—caring for patients—while leaving regulatory oversight and management hassles to the EyeWell team. This model allows for outsourcing advanced therapeutics without fearing losing patients and growing a dry eye practice through partner referrals.















What’s Covered?The Journey of Dr. Kristen BrownThe Concept and Importance of Co-Management in Eye CareOvercoming Hurdles in Building a Dry Eye PracticeExpanding the Eyewell Dry Eye Comanagement ModelLearn More About Eyewell: The Power of Advanced Ocular Surface Care







The Journey of Dr. Kristen Brown







Dr. Darryl Glover:







So, if you don’t mind sharing one of those, that’d be fantastic. Let’s break it down from the top. What’s the story of Dr. Kristen Brown?







Dr. Kristen Brown:







Sure. Well, I’m a California native. I grew up on the West Coast and attended undergrad and optometry school in Northern California. From there, I thought, “What’s the furthest I can go?” Naturally, I considered the East Coast. So, I headed to the Boston area for residency and spent a year there. I wanted to learn more about ocular disease, but I also wanted an adventure. Moving to the East Coast was about as far as I could go and still be on a coastline.







That brought me to the Boston area a little over 30 years ago. After completing my residency, I thought, “Now what?” I had all this great knowledge and passion for dealing with eye disease. Back then, job opportunities were often found in publications like Optometry Times, delivered in newsprint.

Are you ready to revolutionize your healthcare practice, mastering communication in your eye care practice, and elevate your leadership skills? In this episode of Defocus Media, Optometry’s #1 podcast network, Dr. Darryl Glover sits down with Gerard Johnson, a seasoned healthcare manager with 15 years of experience in the industry.







Gerard shares invaluable insights on mastering effective communication in your eye care practice, the pitfalls of micromanagement, and the impact of gossip in the workplace. He also delves into the critical importance of clearly defined roles and responsibilities and the devastating effects of miscommunication in healthcare practice.







Whether you’re a budding manager or a seasoned professional, Gerard’s practical advice and real-world examples will empower you to create a more cohesive, efficient, and positive work environment. Tune in to discover how to lead confidently, delegate effectively, and foster a culture of growth and collaboration in your practice. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field and take your leadership skills to the next level!















What’s Covered?Communication in Eye CareNavigating Microaggressions and Overcoming MicromanagementThe Role of Gossip in Workplace DynamicsClarifying Roles and Responsibilities to Prevent ConflictTackling Miscommunication for Improved Efficiency







Communication in Eye Care







Dr. Darryl Glover: Do you want to take managing your practice to the next level? How do you handle microaggressions? How do you handle conflict? How do you handle communicating with your team so that they give your patients the best care and the best experience ever? Today, on Defocus Media, Optometry’s #1 podcast network, we have the one and only Gerard Johnson.







Dr. Darryl Glover: I’d love for all my listeners and colleagues out there to learn a little more about you. So, if you don’t mind, maybe tell us about your background and how you got into the wonderful world of eye care.







Gerard Johnson: Sure. I’ve been in healthcare management for about 15 years now. I’ve managed everything from small startup practices, like we did with Southpoint years ago, to bringing new practices to new markets, such as Atlanta. I’ve worked as a multi-unit contact lens manager here in Atlanta. I was an ABO and NCLE-certified contact lens optician. So,

This week on the 2020 podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding binocular vision (BV) in optometry. For many optometrists, BV can be daunting—some struggle to grasp its importance, others fear it, and some even question its relevance.







Matt Rosner, representing the NeuroVisual Medicine Institute (NVMI), aims to shift these perceptions. He advocates for a structured program that equips ODs to integrate BV into their practices effectively. This initiative aims to demystify BV and promises to enhance patient care significantly.















Discover more about NVMI and their mission: NeuroVisual Medicine Institute







Access the NVMI screening questionnaire: NVMI Screening Questionnaire