Defocus Media Podcast Network Defocus Media Podcast Network

In the latest episode of Defocus Media, “The Future of Optometry at Optometry’s Meeting,” Dr. Darryl Glover and Dr. Jennifer Lyerly discuss the exciting advancements and discussions from Optometry’s Meeting 2024. Broadcasting live from the event, the dynamic duo engages with a panel of student leaders and young optometrists shaping the profession’s future.







Dr. Glover and Dr. Lyerly bring their signature energy, exploring topics ranging from artificial intelligence in the classroom to the importance of advocacy and scope expansion. The conversation highlights the diverse paths in optometry, emphasizing the importance of staying open to change and innovation.







Notable guests include Dr. Devin Sasser, Emily Benson, Alisha Melton, and James Chung, each sharing their unique experiences and perspectives on the evolving landscape of eye care. The panel discusses the role of AI, the impact of legislative changes on practice choices, and the significance of building meaningful relationships within the industry.







This episode is a must-listen for eye care professionals and optometry students. It offers valuable insights into the profession’s future and the importance of involvement and advocacy. Be inspired by the passion and dedication of these young leaders as they pave the way for the next generation of optometrists.







Tune in to “Defocus Media” to stay informed and connected with the latest trends and developments in optometry. Don’t miss the vibrant discussions shaping eye care’s future at Optometry’s Meeting 2024.















Table of ContentsThe Impact of AI in Optometric Education and PracticeThe Importance of Advocacy and Scope Expansion for the ProfessionNetworking and Professional Growth StrategiesDiverse Career Paths in Optometry and the Power of Pivoting







The Impact of AI in Optometric Education and Practice







AI is revolutionizing optometry, from simplifying complex material for students to enhancing patient care. James Chung shared how tools like ChatGPT can help tailor educational content to individual learning styles and streamline administrative tasks, allowing optometrists to spend more time with patients. AI’s potential to assist in clinical scenarios and patient communication...

In this engaging episode of Defocus Media titled “Optimizing Sports Performance: Vision Wellness, Ocular Nutrition, and Contact Lenses with Dr. Gabriela Olivares,” host Dr. Darryl Glover welcomes back Dr. Gabriela Olivares, a celebrated figure in the eye care and fitness communities. The discussion focuses on the essential role of vision in sports and fitness, emphasizing the importance of ocular nutrition for optimal eye health. Dr. Gabriela Olivares shares her expertise on the connection between our consumption and our vision, highlighting the significance of hydration, balanced diets, and proper nutrition in maintaining healthy eyes. She explains how specific nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are crucial for eye health and how staying hydrated can alleviate issues like dry eye, enhancing overall visual performance.







Dr. Gabriela Olivares also discusses the importance of selecting the right contact lenses for patients with active lifestyles. She stresses the necessity of treating any underlying ocular conditions before fitting contact lenses to ensure success and patient satisfaction. The conversation covers various scenarios, including fitting athletes and individuals with astigmatism. It explains how advanced contact lens technologies, like those from Johnson & Johnson Vision, can provide stable and clear vision. This episode is a must-listen for eye care professionals seeking to understand the intricate link between vision, nutrition, and fitness and how to effectively communicate these concepts to their patients.







In Partnership with Johnson and Johnson

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.

Optometry Giving Sight is a global fundraising initiative that targets the prevention of blindness & impaired vision due to uncorrected refractive error. 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...

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.