The 20/20 Podcast

Harbir Sian, OD
  • 5.0 (10)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
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Dr. Harbir Sian is an award-winning optometrist based in Vancouver, Canada. In The 20/20, Dr. Sian interviews guests from various backgrounds and industries to share their struggles and successes. Guests include business owners, entrepreneurs, world-class athletes, media personalities, medical professionals, and more. Through conversations with these guests, Canada's number 1 optometry podcast brings clarity to business, entrepreneurship, and eyecare. Dr. Sian also shares his personal experiences through his shorter Eye2Eye segment. In these short episodes, Dr. Sian opens up and provides a vulnerable look into the challenges he has faced (and overcome) in his personal and professional life. The 20/20 Podcast gives you a look through different lenses and helps you focus on your growth.

  1. How a Stanford Engineer Started a Game Changing Brand - Joe Croft, CEO of GUNNAR Optiks

    1D AGO

    How a Stanford Engineer Started a Game Changing Brand - Joe Croft, CEO of GUNNAR Optiks

    In this candid conversation, Joseph Croft pulls back the curtain on how Gunnar Optiks emerged from clinical research rather than marketing hype. He describes how early collaboration with optometric researchers highlighted the real drivers of digital eye strain—dramatic reductions in blink rate, tear film evaporation, accommodative lag after prolonged screen use, and loss of contrast—long before “blue light glasses” became a consumer buzzword. Croft explains the engineering decisions behind Gunnar’s high-base, close-fit lens geometry designed to improve the micro-environment around the eye, and the rationale for incorporating a small +0.25D boost to offset accommodative drift seen after hours of near work. The discussion is highly relevant to everyday practice, focusing on how ECPs can approach screen-related complaints with the same task-specific mindset used for sports or occupational eyewear. Croft challenges fear-based blue light messaging and instead frames digital lenses as tools for comfort, contrast, and performance. He also shares how many undiagnosed refractive patients are uncovered when they trial low-plus lenses, reinforcing the role of comprehensive exams. Throughout the episode, the emphasis remains on partnership with optometry—using clinical evaluation first, then positioning digital eyewear as a complementary solution rather than a shortcut around professional care. 5 Key Takeaways Digital eye strain is multifactorial. Symptoms stem from blink suppression, tear evaporation, accommodative fatigue, glare, and contrast loss—not simply from “too much blue light.” Frame design can influence ocular comfort. A closer, higher-base fit may help stabilize the tear film by increasing humidity around the eye, similar in concept to moisture-chamber strategies used in dry-eye management. Small plus power can have a big clinical impact. A +0.25D add aligns with research on accommodative lag and mirrors what many ODs already prescribe through anti-fatigue or low-plus computer Rxs. Digital eyewear should be positioned as task-specific equipment. Just as patients accept different glasses for driving or sports, screen use warrants its own optical solution integrated into the exam and dispensing workflow. ECPs remain central to the process. Proper screening for refractive error, binocular vision, and ocular surface disease should come first—digital lenses are meant to support, not replace, comprehensive care. Memorable Quotes “I hate the term blue light glasses. It’s a disservice to consumers and to optometry—blue light isn’t the enemy; context is.” “You can’t run a marathon in loafers. Eyewear should be task-specific just like footwear.” “We’re here to help in a massive epidemic of digital eye strain, not just sell another pair of glasses.” Learn more about Gunnar Optiks: Gunnar.com Connect with Joe Croft: Joe@Gunnar.com Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

    51 min
  2. Jett Plasma: A New Frontier In Dry Eye And Aesthetics - Dr. Vicente Rodriguez, Global Medical Director Of Jett Plasma

    FEB 18

    Jett Plasma: A New Frontier In Dry Eye And Aesthetics - Dr. Vicente Rodriguez, Global Medical Director Of Jett Plasma

    Innovations in eye care are changing how we treat dry eyes and enhance facial aesthetics. Dr. Harbir Sian explores these advances with Dr. Vicente Rodriguez, Global Medical Director of Jett Plasma, who explains how this revolutionary technology uses low-intensity electrical stimulation to target the conjunctiva, eyelid margin, accessory glands, and orbicularis muscles. He shares the evolution of Jett Plasma from non-invasive facial rejuvenation to advanced ocular applications, detailing techniques for treating blepharitis, Meibomian gland dysfunction, and lid wiper epitheliopathy, while also highlighting emerging possibilities for retinal stimulation and veterinary applications. This conversation offers a rare, in-depth look at how precise electrical stimulation is improving patient outcomes and expanding the frontiers of ophthalmology and optometry. Connect with Harbir: InstagramLinkedInYouTube Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

    38 min
  3. From Pain Points to Patents: Inventing a New Device for Eye Doctors - MaryAnn Klassen, Founder of Meivertor

    FEB 11

    From Pain Points to Patents: Inventing a New Device for Eye Doctors - MaryAnn Klassen, Founder of Meivertor

    In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with MaryAnn Klassen, a long-time leader in the eye care industry whose career has closely mirrored — and influenced — some of optometry’s most significant clinical shifts over the past four decades. MaryAnn takes listeners through her journey from the early days of contact lenses, when extended-wear lenses first disrupted traditional practice models, to the evolution of AMD management, and ultimately to today’s rapidly expanding understanding of dry eye disease. Having worked with major industry players such as CIBA Vision, Novartis Ophthalmics, and Bausch + Lomb, she offers a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective on how optometrists adapt to change — and what it takes for new ideas to gain traction in a profession that values evidence and patient safety above all else. The conversation then turns to MaryAnn’s entrepreneurial leap: the creation of the Meivertor, a patented medical device designed to make upper eyelid eversion easier, safer, and more efficient. Sparked by a real clinical frustration she experienced firsthand, MaryAnn shares how the idea moved from a simple observation to a globally patented product now used in practices around the world. She walks through the realities of device development, including prototyping, patenting, workflow challenges, and the often-overlooked importance of technician confidence and training. Beyond the device itself, this episode explores bigger themes — innovation in optometry, behavior change in clinics, empowerment of staff, and the mindset required to build something meaningful while still working full-time. It’s a candid, insightful conversation that blends clinical relevance with business wisdom and personal reflection. Key Takeaways Optometry evolves when evidence supports change — history proves it repeatedlyThe upper eyelid contains critical diagnostic information that is often overlookedSmall workflow improvements can create outsized clinical and efficiency gainsEmpowering technicians improves diagnostics, confidence, and job satisfactionSuccessful innovation requires persistence, clarity, and hard work — not luck Memorable Quotes “Optometry continually has to evolve — and it does when the evidence supports the shift.”\ “There has to be a single-handed solution to this problem.” “The upper lids matter.” “If you give optometrists a legitimate reason and support it clinically, they will adopt it.” “I don’t believe in luck. Your goal affects your behavior — it’s all hard work.” Learn More Meivertor: https://meivertor.com Connect with MaryAnn Klassen on social channels and via email: maryann@meivertor.com Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

    42 min
  4. Beyond the Exam Lane: Building Systems and Teams That Scale - Dr. Fallon Patel

    FEB 4

    Beyond the Exam Lane: Building Systems and Teams That Scale - Dr. Fallon Patel

    Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Dr. Fallon Patel, Toronto optometrist, owner of five LensCrafters sublease clinics, leader of a 50-person team, and creator of the upcoming AI platform Pulse IQ Solutions. This conversation goes far beyond clinical care. Dr. Patel shares how she evolved from a full-time clinician to a true business leader—navigating chaos, hiring for culture, developing associate doctors, and building a thriving myopia management program across multiple locations. She opens up about the mindset shifts that changed her career, the power of coaching, why empathy matters in leadership, and how stepping out of the exam lane allowed her practices to grow. Whether you’re an associate dreaming of ownership or a seasoned OD managing a team, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom. Key Takeaways 1. You Can’t Scale From the Exam Lane Growth required Fallon to step back from seeing patients every day. Leadership demands time for strategy, people development, and systems—not just more clinical hours. 2. Hire for Behavior, Not Experience Skills can be trained; mindset cannot. Fallon hires based on ownership, accountability, adaptability, and respect rather than years on a résumé. 3. Culture Is What You Tolerate Protect your A-players. Allowing one toxic team member can erode morale faster than any marketing strategy can fix. 4. Myopia Management Requires Belief First Doctors need to experience success personally before fully adopting it. Start simple—one lens, one approach—and build confidence over time. 5. Leadership Starts With Personal Development Tactics didn’t move her business—mindset did. Real growth began when Fallon invested in coaching and inner work. 6. Communication Fuels Momentum Weekly meetings, Slack channels, and constant vision sharing keep large teams aligned across multiple locations. 7. AI Will Be the Next Practice Partner Pulse IQ Solutions aims to turn business data into guided action for teams—training, SOPs, and performance insights in one hub. Memorable Quotes “If you want your external world to improve, you have to start with yourself and work internally.” “People think working more days makes more money—but everything falls apart when you’re in the lane five days a week.” “Hire slow, fire fast—experience can be trained; behavior cannot.” “Leadership is not that employees work for you. It’s that you work for your employees.” “Something is better than nothing—just pick one myopia option and start.” “Opportunities show up like luck, but only if you’ve prepared for them.” Topics We Cover Transitioning from clinician → leaderManaging 5 clinics and 20 associate ODsCreating accountability without losing empathyBuilding myopia management across a teamUsing metrics to guide cultureWhy coaching changed everythingSocial media as a recruitment toolInside Pulse IQ Solutions and AI for ECPs About Our Guest – Dr. Fallon Patel Owner of 5 LensCrafters sublease clinics in the Toronto areaLeads a team of 50+ staff including 20 optometristsPassionate about myopia management & leadership developmentHost of the Optical Accelerator Series on Optical PrismFounder of Pulse IQ Solutions, an AI-driven platform for ECP operationsWife and mother of two Connect with Dr. Fallon Patel Instagram: @EyeDocFallonLinkedIn: Dr. Fallon PatelPulse IQ Waitlist: pulseIQsolutions.comOptical Accelerator Series: opticalprism.ca

    56 min
  5. Eye2Eye: The Biggest Lesson I Learned From Stranger Things

    JAN 21

    Eye2Eye: The Biggest Lesson I Learned From Stranger Things

    The Netflix show Stranger Things has become a global cultural phenomenon. In this solo Eye2Eye episode, Dr. Harbir Sian shares an unexpected but powerful lesson inspired by Stranger Things. But the lesson learned may not be what you might expect. Fans of the show may expect something related to the comradery exemplified by all the friends fighting evil together. Instead, using the resurgence of Kate Bush’s iconic song Running Up That Hill as a real-world case study, Harbir reflects on the importance of patience, consistency, and trusting that effort often pays off on a timeline we can’t predict. This episode isn’t about TV shows or pop culture—it’s about doing the work, taking the shot, owning your value, and recognizing that impact and success can arrive long after the work is done. Key Takeaways for Listeners 1. Your timing is not the universe’s timing You may put in years of effort before seeing results—but that doesn’t mean the work wasn’t worth it. 2. Consistent effort compounds, even when it feels invisible Kate Bush’s decades-old song became a global hit 40 years later. Impact doesn’t always come immediately. 3. You miss every opportunity you never try for Progress only happens when you take the shot—publish the content, start the project, have the conversation. 4. Own what makes you different Your personality, perspective, and voice are assets. Lean into them instead of blending in. 5. Own your work—literally and figuratively Know your value, protect your rights, and charge appropriately so you can show up fully. Key Quotes from the Episode “Your timing, my timing, is not the same as the universe’s timing.” “If we don’t try, if we don’t put out that content, we’ll never achieve that goal.” “Kate Bush made more money 40 years later than she did when the song first came out.” “Own your uniqueness—lean into it and leverage it.” “If you’re good at something, don’t do it for free.” “You might already be planting the seeds for something you haven’t even imagined yet.” Who This Episode Is For Optometrists and healthcare professionals building long-term careersEntrepreneurs frustrated by slow or delayed growthCreators and leaders questioning whether their effort is “worth it”Anyone needing motivation to keep going—even when results aren’t visible yet Final Thought This episode is a reminder that meaningful success often arrives quietly, unexpectedly, and much later than planned—but only if you’re willing to keep showing up. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

    13 min
  6. Marketing Your Practice in 2026: What Still Works and What Has Changed - Tyler Kemp, Marketing 4ECPs

    JAN 14

    Marketing Your Practice in 2026: What Still Works and What Has Changed - Tyler Kemp, Marketing 4ECPs

    Marketing an optometry practice is evolving faster than ever—and the strategies that worked even a year ago may no longer be enough. In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian welcomes back digital marketing expert Tyler Kemp for a timely conversation on what practice owners need to understand about marketing heading into 2026. They break down how Google’s AI-driven search updates have reshaped SEO, why awareness marketing is still massively undervalued in eye care, how AI tools like ChatGPT are changing patient search behavior, and why blending digital with traditional marketing may be one of the biggest growth opportunities for independent practices. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by algorithms, AI, and where to spend your marketing dollars, this episode brings clarity and practical direction. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Google’s AI updates are rewarding quality, hyper-local contentWhy patients search differently on AI tools versus GoogleThe growing influence of Google reviews on both patients and AI-generated summariesWhy awareness marketing matters more than “book now” ads aloneHow patient attrition impacts growth—and why retention isn’t enoughWhy direct mail is making a surprising comeback when paired with digital adsHow independent practices can compete without massive marketing budgets Key Takeaways AI hasn’t replaced Google—it’s made good Google content more importantPatients choose practices they recognize and trustMost potential patients are in the awareness stage, not ready to bookGoogle reviews now influence both visibility and credibilitySustainable growth requires balancing retention, awareness, and conversion Memorable Quotes “People choose who they trust—and they trust who they know.”“If patients have never heard of you, they’re not choosing you.”“Awareness is the most underutilized part of the marketing funnel in eye care.” About the Guest Tyler Kemp is a seasoned digital marketer with over 10 years of experience, specializing in marketing for the eye care industry. Based in Calgary, he has spent the past six years with Marketing4ECPs, helping optometry practices across North America build patient-centred strategies that drive real results. He also shares marketing insights on Instagram at @TyTalksMarketing and co-hosts 4 The Record, a podcast powered by Marketing4ECPs. Call to Action If this episode helped you rethink your marketing strategy, share it with a colleague, post it on social media, and leave a review to help more optometrists find the show.

    42 min
  7. Eye2Eye: 6 Lessons I'm Bringing From 2025 Into 2026

    JAN 7

    Eye2Eye: 6 Lessons I'm Bringing From 2025 Into 2026

    In the first episode of 2026, Dr. Harbir Sian reflects on the past year and shares six powerful lessons he’s intentionally bringing forward into the year ahead. Drawing from personal experience, professional growth, and the continued evolution of the optometry profession, this episode is a thoughtful reset for anyone looking to start the year with clarity, purpose, and momentum. From the importance of consistency and avoiding complacency, to learning how to say no, value your time, and surround yourself with the right people, this episode is equal parts practical and reflective. Whether 2025 felt like a year you’re glad to leave behind or one you want to build on, these lessons are designed to help you move into 2026 with intention. 🧠 The Six Lessons 1️⃣ Consistency Is King Big results rarely come from short bursts of effort. Whether it’s fitness, finances, content creation, or business growth, long-term consistency compounds in powerful ways. 2️⃣ Make the Most of Every Day Rather than living each day like it’s your last, live it like it’s a day you’ll repeat forever. Small daily actions and meaningful interactions add up over time. 3️⃣ Avoid Complacency (The “Velvet Rut”) Comfort can be deceptive. Growth often stalls not when things are bad, but when they’re “good enough.” The key is recognizing when comfort is holding you back. 4️⃣ Learn to Say No As opportunities grow, focus becomes essential. If it’s not a “hell yes,” it’s probably a no. Time is your most valuable currency—spend it intentionally. 5️⃣ Be Intentional with Who You Spend Time With Energy matters. The people you surround yourself with influence your mindset, ambition, and growth more than you realize. 6️⃣ Value Yourself — and the Profession From charging appropriately for your expertise to advocating for optometry at a broader level, valuing yourself is foundational to sustainable success. 🎧 Why You Should Listen If you’re reflecting on the year that was and planning the year aheadIf you’re feeling busy but not always fulfilledIf you want practical, grounded insights without the hypeIf you care about personal growth and the future of optometry Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

    44 min
  8. "INDEPENDENCE is a Long-Term Strategy, Not an Accident", "There is No SAFE LEVEL of Myopia" - Dr. Patrick Simard

    12/17/2025

    "INDEPENDENCE is a Long-Term Strategy, Not an Accident", "There is No SAFE LEVEL of Myopia" - Dr. Patrick Simard

    In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with internationally respected myopia management expert Dr. Patrick Simard for a wide-ranging, thought-provoking conversation recorded live at the OSI National Summit in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Dr. Simard—author, clinician, researcher, educator, and practice owner—shares his journey from associate to partner, and from primary care optometry to full-time specialty practice. With a rare blend of clinical depth and business insight, he offers practical guidance on ownership, long-term succession planning, and how independent optometrists can grow without selling out. The discussion then dives deep into myopia management, from entry-level strategies to cutting-edge developments. Dr. Simard explains why there is no safe level of myopia, why early and even pre-myopia intervention matters, and what’s coming next in orthokeratology, optics, and pharmaceutical treatments. This episode is packed with actionable advice, mindset shifts, and future-focused insights for optometrists interested in specialty care, business growth, and preserving independence. 🧠 5 Important Learning Points There Is No “Safe” Myopia Dr. Simard emphasizes that even low levels of myopia in young children carry long-term risk, reframing myopia as a disease that requires earlier and more proactive intervention.You Don’t Need to Master Everything to Start Myopia Management Optometrists can begin with one modality they’re comfortable with and build their toolbox over time—waiting for perfection only delays patient care.Entrepreneurial Mindset Matters in Practice Ownership Ambition, initiative, and a willingness to engage beyond the exam room are key traits that turn associates into future partners and help clinics grow sustainably.Pre-Myopia Is the Next Frontier Emerging evidence supports intervening even before myopia develops, using tools like atropine or optical strategies to delay onset and reduce progression risk.Independence Is a Long-Term Strategy, Not an Accident Dr. Simard highlights how thoughtful partnership structures, early succession planning, and collaboration can keep practices independent and thriving for decades. 💬 5 Key Quotes “There is no safe level of myopia. A nine-year-old at minus one is not normal.” “You don’t need to master the entire toolbox—just start with the one you feel comfortable with.” “Giving up a piece of the pie doesn’t mean making less money. A bigger pie benefits everyone.” “Specialists don’t compete—they collaborate.” “If you hesitate to start myopia management, now is the right time to jump in.” 👤 About the Guest Dr. Patrick Simard is a graduate of the Université de Montréal, where he also earned a Master’s degree in Vision Science and later an MBA from HEC Montréal. He is a Fellow of multiple international academies, a Diplomate of the AAO (CCLRT), a clinical instructor and lecturer since 2002, and a co-owner of Clinique d’Optométrie Bélanger. His clinical and research interests include myopia control, orthokeratology, scleral lenses, and aberrometry. He is also a co-holder of a patent for a contact lens design aimed at controlling myopia and axial elongation. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review & share! http://www.aboutmyeyes.com/podcast/

    38 min
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About

Dr. Harbir Sian is an award-winning optometrist based in Vancouver, Canada. In The 20/20, Dr. Sian interviews guests from various backgrounds and industries to share their struggles and successes. Guests include business owners, entrepreneurs, world-class athletes, media personalities, medical professionals, and more. Through conversations with these guests, Canada's number 1 optometry podcast brings clarity to business, entrepreneurship, and eyecare. Dr. Sian also shares his personal experiences through his shorter Eye2Eye segment. In these short episodes, Dr. Sian opens up and provides a vulnerable look into the challenges he has faced (and overcome) in his personal and professional life. The 20/20 Podcast gives you a look through different lenses and helps you focus on your growth.

Information

  • Creator
    Harbir Sian, OD
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    198
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Harbir Sian, OD | The 20/20 Podcast | All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    The 20/20 Podcast

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