The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care Professionals

Michael Nasser
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"The Focused View" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the latest trends, strategies, and innovations in the eye care industry. Hosted by industry expert Michael Nasser, each episode features in-depth interviews with thought leaders and practitioners who are pushing the boundaries of optometry. With a focus on empowering eye care professionals and elevating the industry, "The Focused View" provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field. Tune in for engaging conversations, expert analysis, and a clear vision for the future of eye care.

  1. 10H AGO

    EP47: The Evolution of Independent Optometry and Technology with Tim Thurn

    Independent optometry hasn't just evolved, it has transformed. From glass lenses dominating the market to digitally personalised optics, from fragmented professional politics to collaborative care models, the journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Tim Thurn, former  Medical & Professional Relations Director at EssilorLuxottica and a trained optometrist, to unpack decades of perspective on the profession. This is a conversation about progress, not just technological progress, but professional growth, mindset shifts, and the responsibility independents carry in shaping the future of eye care. — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:11 - Tim's journey into optometry and industry leadership 4:06 - From fragmented practice to coordinated care  5:44 - Tim's transition into industry & market analysis 10:36 - Early challenges and opportunities of independent practice 13:17 - Revenue model shifts 14:36 - Technological milestones in dispensing and manufacturing 19:05 - How technology changes patient experience to personalisation and precision 22:44 - Staff training to the power of technology 24:05 - Importance of independence embracing technology 26:31 - Independence as drivers of change 32:27 - Who independents are really competing with 36:34 - Role of independent market to R&D across the industry 41:34 - Underdeveloped areas of the eye care industry 44:38 - What's next for the eye care industry 46:11 - Advice to the independent in adopting new technology 51:55 - Don't be afraid to adopt and ask Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ Email: info@thefocusedview.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    56 min

  2. FEB 9

    EP46: Leading for Success: Practical Strategies to Build Stronger Teams in Independent Optometry with Dr Steve Vargo

    Strong teams don't just happen by accident. They're built through better leadership, a strong team culture, and systems that help your practice grow without burning you out.  In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Dr Steve Vargo, optometrist, practice management consultant, author, and host of the Eye Own a Business podcast, to unpack one of the biggest (and most challenging) issues facing independent practices today: leadership and team management. From understanding the difference between leadership and management, to hiring the right practice manager, reducing staff turnover, and building a culture people actually want to be part of, this conversation goes beyond theory and dives into what truly works inside real practices. If you've ever felt overwhelmed managing staff, unsure how to delegate, or frustrated by a lack of growth despite working harder than ever, this episode is for you. — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au — Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:01 - Steve Vargo's journey into practice management 4:50 - Why leadership is the missing link in many practices 7:25 - Leadership vs. management 9:42 - Why do practice owners struggle in leadership 10:11 - When should the owner delegate responsibilities 13:46 - Best way to identify the right practice manager 16:35 - Hiring within vs. outside 18:37 - Interview questions for leadership roles 21:35 - The first 60 days of a new manager 23:52 - Developing leaders in your existing team 27:07 - The five pillars of leadership 30:17 - Holding people accountable without confrontation 32:59 - Effective communication in the practice 36:59 - Tips for manager and team collaboration 38:49 - Why staffing is the number 1 challenge of business owners 40:54 - Retention comes down to leadership 42:53 - Empowering staff to be part of the solution 44:43 - One step to become a better leader — Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ Email: info@thefocusedview.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    49 min

  3. JAN 26

    EP45: Building Community, Crafting Care: Northam Optical's Journey to Independent Practice of the Year 2025 with Allyson Freind

    In this episode, we are joined by Allyson Freind, optical dispenser, owner of Northam Optical and recipient of Independent Practice of the Year 2025, to explore how a loyal customer base, deep community connection, and consistent, high-quality care can outperform even the biggest city-based advantages. From accidentally stepping into optics as a receptionist to becoming a trusted healthcare provider, community leader, and industry advocate, Allyson's journey shows that regional practices can thrive when they are built on trust, education, and genuine care for the people they serve. — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au — Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:46 - Allyson's background and her unexpected career in optics 5:11 - From employee to business owner  6:04 - What makes running a rural practice unique compared to bigger cities 6:56 - What sets an award-winning practice apart 8:56 - Business milestone for Northam Optical 11:12 - Building real community connections 13:27 - Criteria for brand alignment and setting boundaries as a business owner 17:36 - Education and industry involvement 20:38 - Giving back to the community through the Fiji outreach program 23:39 - The value of training and education for optical dispensers 24:54 - Guiding principles that operate Northam Optical 26:11 - What makes the biggest difference in patient experience  27:52 - Making smart business decisions: Introducing a new specialisation to patients 30:22 - Business owner routine to be working on the business, not just in it 32:51 - Allyson's advice to independent practice owners ___ Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ Email: info@thefocusedview.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview ___ Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    37 min

  4. JAN 12

    EP44: Ownership, Independence, and Planning Succession in Optometry with Tim Duffy

    What does it take to build an independent practice that lasts for four decades and then pass it on to continue the legacy, intention, and heart for patient care? In this episode, we are joined by Tim Duffy, a highly respected rural optometrist, former owner of Vision Splendid, and long-time advocate of independent practice, to unpack how he built, grew, and eventually handed over his optometry practice to younger optometrists without losing its heart for patients.  This conversation goes beyond business theory. It's about community, independence, patient care-first, and living a legacy that outlives you. Whether you're a young optometrist wondering where your career path is heading, a practice owner thinking about the next 5–10 years, or someone who is deeply invested in the future of independent optometry, this is a must-listen episode for you!  — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au — Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:16 - Tim Duffy's path into optometry 3:29 - Starting young and building a rural practice in NSW 6:20 - Key strategies in growing a rural optometry practice 9:32 - Early support from the community 11:06 - Expanding scope of practice in rural settings 14:06 - Investing in patient care through technology, equipment in rural settings 16:34 - Competition in rural private practice 19:34 - Advocating for independence: treating team as family 22:51 - Creating a lifestyle, flexibility, and owning your time 26:13 - Recognition of the Josef Lederer Award (2017) 28:12 - Who was Josef Lederer? 31:22 - Initial steps of succession planning 38:27 - Finding the right person for a successful succession 40:54 - Why did Tim choose the continuation of practice legacy over corporate sale 46:19 - When it the time to get legal advice for succession planning Mentioned Resources: Vision Splendid Optometrist Josef Lederer Vision Splendid on Facebook Episode Suggestions:  Holiday Episode: Eye Care Community Voice EP43: Beyond the Brochure: Raising Optical Standards Through Lens Knowledge with Grant Hannaford Connect with Michael Nasser: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-nasser/ _____ Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    52 min

  5. 12/29/2025 · BONUS

    2025 Holiday Episode: Eye Care Community Voice

    As we close out another year on The Focused View, we wanted to pause the usual format and do something truly special. In this special holiday episode, we bring together one standout piece of advice from some of our past guests. You'll also hear their personal messages to the eye care community, reflections, encouragement, and what they hope we carry with us into the new year.  Think of this episode as a collective deep breath. A moment to reflect on the challenges we've faced, the growth we've experienced, and the future we're building together.  — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au — Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:01 - Kelly's advice on mental health, work-life pressure, and early intervention 2:31 - Bethany on emotional intelligence, leadership & continuous growth 3:37 - Skye's advice on the future opportunities in the eye care industry 4:12 - Belina's reflection on independent optometry growth 5:45 - Amanda's update on the industry changes and support to young optometrists 6:30 - Todd's update on the mivision digital 8:30 - Fatin's reflection on the importance of real human connection in a high-tech world 10:30 - Kayla on what to look out for in the eye care industry in 2026 12:55 - Erich's encouragement for growth, confidence, and long-term vision 13:56 - Louise and Teiger's gratitude to the eye care community — Episode Suggestions:  EP24: Kelly O' Brien on Managing an Independent Optical Practice in a Rural Setting: Challenges, Partnership, Growth, and Making a Difference in the Community EP21: The Essentials of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership with Dr Bethany Fishbein EP20: Vision 2040: Shaping the Future of Optometry with Skye Cappuccio, CEO of Optometry Australia — Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview — Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    17 min

  6. 12/15/2025

    EP43: Beyond the Brochure: Raising Optical Standards Through Lens Knowledge with Grant Hannaford

    What if the biggest breakthroughs in patient outcomes aren't found in new lens technologies…but in how deeply you understand the ones you already use? In this episode, we peel back the layers of lens design as Michael Nasser sits down with Dr Grant Hannaford, Doctor of Ophthalmic Science and co-founder of the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics (AAOO), to unpack the often misunderstood world of lens philosophy and the growing knowledge gap between lens engineers and practitioners. It's technical… but in the very best way. Dr Grant takes us through his journey from dispensing and practice ownership to building one of Australia's leading platforms for advanced optical education. He reveals how returning to first principles is helping practitioners make smarter prescribing decisions, communicate with more confidence, and ultimately deliver better visual outcomes for their patients. This episode goes far beyond the brochure, the buzzwords, and the marketing claims we've all heard before. If you've ever wanted to deepen your optical knowledge, revisit the "why" behind your prescribing, or strengthen your confidence in lens conversations, this is a must-listen. — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au — Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:16 - Dr Grant's entry to the eye care field: From musician to discovering optics 3:47 - Studying optics and hitting the educational ceiling 6:12 - The birth of the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics (AAOO) and its course structure 11:55 - Lens designs and first principle concept 14:28 - The biggest knowledge gap in the optical industry 17:20 - Lack of technical knowledge in the delivery of training 20:10 - Translation of information to patients 24:58 - Reengaging with the fundamentals of lens knowledge 28:24 - The value of first-principle learning: Inside AAOO course structure 33:11 - AHA moment: Radius, Power & What you give up 34:57 - Why lens design is more important than the brand 38:36 - Understanding lens design in theory and real-world practice 44:19 - How to assess marketing ploy vs. technical-based knowledge in lens design 47:38 - The McDonald's analogy 52:49 - The "knife-edge" intermediate zone in progressive 56:25 - Habitual wear context 58:45 -  How to match lens design to patient needs  1:03:17 - Lens recommendation based on limited portfolio 1:06:04 - Lab remake rates and warranties 1:11:20  - Physics has rules: Don't promise what isn't possible 1:13:53 - One shift that Dr Grant wants to see in the eye care space — Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    1h 20m

  7. 12/01/2025

    EP42: Beyond the Plateau: Modernising and Reigniting Your Practice for Growth with Erich Mattei - Part 2

    Every practice reaches that moment when growth feels …stuck, and you can sense there's more potential, but you're not quite sure where to find it. The good news? There is a way to go beyond the plateau.  In continuation of Michael's conversation with Erich Mattei of Akrinos, they discuss how eye care professionals can modernise, expand, and grow in their practice, whether they're just starting or have been running an established business for decades. Erich breaks down what it takes to launch a cold start practice, how to identify growth opportunities in an established one, and the importance of financial, operational, and human strategies in building a thriving, future-ready business. From workflow optimisation to team accountability, to mentorship, to succession planning. This conversation covers the full life cycle of a practice, including practical steps, mindset shifts, and real-world advice for eyecare business owners ready to move beyond the plateau and take their business to the next level. — All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au — Key Topics with Timestamps: 0:52 - First phase of cold start: Planning 2:39 - Second phase of cold start: Develop 7:06 - Third phase of cold start: Launch 8:31 - Why community still matters 10:35 - For established practice: breaking through the plateau 14:06 - Review the PNL 18:33 - The 3-step growth framework: Analysis, Strategy, & Implementation 22:42 - Consistent follow-up with the team 25:39 - Workflows review and team optimisation 34:10 - The power of mentorship and accountability 38:32 - Tips on finding a mentor 41:36 - Succession planning: Start early 49:38 - Opportunities with legacy practice 54:38 - Selling to private equity vs. Independent transition 59:35 - Final Advice for aspiring owners ______ Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ Email: Michael@thefocusedview.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview ______ Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    1h 3m

  8. 11/17/2025

    EP41: Lessons in Leadership and Ownership: Shaina Zheng's Guide for Emerging Independents

    Everyone dreams of running their own practice until they realise that it's more than just caring for patients. In this episode, we are joined by Shaina Zheng, a clinical optometrist and practice owner, to unpack the unexpected chaos behind the consultation room. Shaina gets real and opens up about her culture shock on ownership, their biggest challenges, pushback, and the powerful lessons she's learned about leadership, emotional intelligence, and resilience in independent practice. Throughout the conversation, Shaina shares her journey from her early days working in a corporate practice to leading their own independent practice with his husband. She also highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and building strong team culture, while touching on her passion for dry eye management and myopia control, two niches rooted deeply in her personal story. If you've ever wanted to build a meaningful career in eye care, this story will remind you why it's worth it. About the Guest: Shaina Zheng is a clinical optometrist, practice owner, and Vice President of the Dry Eye Society. She co-leads Eyecare Plus Mermaid Beach with a strong focus on culture-driven leadership and patient-centred excellence. Through her programs Dry Eye Impact and Impact Culture Group, Shaina is empowering optometrists across Australia to build sustainable careers, stronger teams, and practices grounded in wellbeing and purpose. All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at  https://www.thefocusedview.com.au Key Topics with Timestamps: 1:14 - Shaina's first encounter with optometry and how it shaped her career path 3:00 - Mentorship and early career lessons 6:40 - Transition from corporate environment to independent ownership 8:28 - Deciding to buy a practice 10:56 - The value of having a partner in building an independent practice 12:06 - Shaina's culture shock in practice ownership 14:28 - What to prepare before going into independent ownership 17:50 -  Building trust with patients 22:34 - The power of community and connection 26:47 - Ways to create community connection 30:35 - Leadership lesson 35:07 - Benefits of emotional intelligence in leadership 40:30 - Finding your niche specialisation for the practice 46:27 - Biggest challenge of independent owners  50:09 - The one thing Shaina would have done differently in her journey to independence 53:27 - Advice for aspiring independent owners ______ Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ Email: Michael@thefocusedview.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!

    57 min
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About

"The Focused View" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the latest trends, strategies, and innovations in the eye care industry. Hosted by industry expert Michael Nasser, each episode features in-depth interviews with thought leaders and practitioners who are pushing the boundaries of optometry. With a focus on empowering eye care professionals and elevating the industry, "The Focused View" provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field. Tune in for engaging conversations, expert analysis, and a clear vision for the future of eye care.

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