Eyespiring

Prevent Blindness Texas
  • 0.0 (0)
  • NON-PROFIT

The mission of Prevent Blindness Texas is to prevent blindness and preserve sight. We are leaders and change agents in the eye health space here to empower you!

  1. 6D AGO

    Reinventing Leadership: Growth, Innovation, and Finding Joy in Your Career

    In this episode of Eyespiring, Heather Patrick welcomes Kim Schuy Greenberg, a strategic leader with more than 20 years of executive experience across consulting, consumer brands, healthcare, and the optical industry. Kim shares her journey from global corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, offering insights on growth mindset, branding, innovation, and the future of consumer engagement in eye care. The conversation also explores leadership resilience, technology trends, and how finding joy and purpose can shape long-term career success.   Topics Covered Kim’s career journey from consulting to optical leadershipBranding and innovation lessons from Procter & GambleReinventing the Verilux brand and driving global impactLeading digital transformation with HELIXNavigating leadership challenges and changeTransitioning from corporate executive to entrepreneurPersonalization and consumer engagement in eye careGrowth mindset and lifelong learningThe future of technology, AI, and augmented realityBuilding community and meaningful connectionsLeadership resilience and avoiding burnout Kim shares thoughtful reflections on leadership, innovation, and personal growth, encouraging listeners to embrace change, take risks, and prioritize meaningful connections. Her journey demonstrates how curiosity, resilience, and purpose can shape a fulfilling career and lasting impact.   Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 – Introduction01:36 – Career Motivation & Growth Mindset04:23 – Early Career Lessons from Bain & P&G 08:33 – Reinventing the Verilux Brand 10:45 – Toughest Leadership Moment17:08 – Leadership Inspiration & Women in Leadership 23:53 – Reinventing Yourself as an Entrepreneur 29:53 – Personalization & Consumer Engagement 31:05 – Technology Driving Vision Care Demand 35:32 – Social Media & Practice Growth 39:24 – Growth Mindset & Career Development 42:27 – Future Consumer Trends 49:25 – Finding Joy and Purpose 50:40 – Closing & Prevent Blindness Texas Mission

    51 min

  2. MAR 26

    From Patient to Powerful: Finding Your Voice Through Thyroid Eye Disease

    In this inspiring and deeply personal episode, Heather Patrick sits down with Dr. Layla Lohmann to explore what it means to live, and thrive, with a chronic condition. From childhood diagnosis to becoming a national patient advocate, Dr. Lohmann shares how she turned fear, frustration, and isolation into empowerment, connection, and purpose. This conversation highlights the importance of using your voice, embracing vulnerability, and understanding the powerful connection between eye health and overall wellness. Topics Covered Living with Graves’ disease and Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)The emotional journey of chronic illness and self-acceptanceWhy vulnerability is actually a source of strengthThe importance of patient advocacy and storytellingCommon misconceptions about TEDBalancing motherhood, career, and chronic illnessThe connection between oral health, eye health, and whole-body healthBarriers to care: cost, comfort, and emotional resistanceHow the ASPECT program empowers patient advocatesThe role of community and connection in healingShifting from people-pleasing to self-advocacyLearning to set boundaries and embrace discomfort for growthDr. Lohmann’s journey is a powerful reminder that while chronic illness can feel isolating, it can also be a catalyst for growth, connection, and impact. By choosing to take action, embrace vulnerability, and use her voice, she’s not only transformed her own life, but is helping others feel seen, heard, and empowered in theirs. Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 01:57 – Layla’s Story Begins 03:20 – The Power of Vulnerability 05:48 – Diagnosed at 12 08:05 – Parenting & Chronic Illness 09:39 – Second Diagnosis During Pregnancy 10:27 – Learning to Advocate for Yourself 13:55 – The Art of Listening & Communication 16:11 – Misconceptions About TED 18:40 – You Are Not Alone 21:20 – Choosing Action Every Day 25:25 – Whole-Body Health Connection 29:15 – Finding Advocacy Through ASPECT 32:00 – Why Patient Voices Matter 37:10 – Building Community 41:40 – Take Action 42:45 – Key Takeaways 44:15 – Closing Thoughts

    45 min

  3. MAR 12

    Building Bridges in Eye Care: Leadership, Advocacy, and Women’s Health

    In this episode of Eyespiring, Heather Patrick welcomes Dr. Jennifer Deakins, a leader in optometry, education, and legislative advocacy. Dr. Deakins shares her journey into eye care, the mentors who shaped her career, and the passion that drives her work serving underserved communities.   The conversation explores women’s eye health, access to care, advocacy in healthcare policy, and the evolving role of optometry. Through powerful patient stories and professional insight, Dr. Deakins highlights how eye exams can reveal broader health issues and why building stronger connections between providers, communities, and policymakers is essential for improving vision health.   Topics Covered Dr. Deakins’ path into optometry and the mentors who influenced her careerThe importance of mentorship and saying “yes” to opportunitiesLeadership challenges women face in healthcarePreventing burnout and staying connected to your “why”How women’s eye health changes across life stagesThe connection between vision health and systemic diseasesReal patient stories illustrating the impact of early detectionWhy advocacy matters in protecting patient access to careLegislative wins for optometry in TexasBarriers to care for underserved populationsThe future of optometry and inspiring the next generation of eye care professionalsDr. Deakins closes the conversation with two powerful reminders: meaningful change starts with taking the first step, and strong partnerships and relationships make lasting impact possible. Her message highlights the importance of advocacy, collaboration, and continued innovation in ensuring accessible eye care for all.   Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 01:32 – Dr. Deakins’ Journey into Optometry 05:40 – Career Decisions that Shaped Her Path 07:45 – Challenges as a Woman in Leadership 12:19 – The Power of Mentorship 15:45 – Preventing Burnout in Healthcare 21:38 – Women’s Eye Health Across Life Stages 29:12 – Vision Issues That Often Go Unnoticed 30:54 – Patient Stories That Stay With You 34:12 – Eye Exams as a Window to Overall Health 38:06 – Advocacy and the Power of Storytelling 40:37 – Legislative Wins for Optometry in Texas 44:09 – Why Eye Health Still Needs More Awareness 47:13 – Barriers to Eye Care 51:01 – The Future of Optometry 54:32 – Final Advice for Listeners

    57 min

  4. FEB 26

    Leading with Curiosity: Growth, Grit & Community Health

    In this episode, Heather welcomes Ryane Jackson, Vice President of Community Health Network at Memorial Hermann Health System, to discuss the evolution of leadership, the power of asking “why,” and the future of community health. From her early start in journalism to becoming a nationally recognized healthcare leader, Ryane reflects on the importance of curiosity, empathy and strategic restraint in building both personal leadership capacity and systemwide impact. Topics Covered Ryane’s path from communications and fundraising to healthcare leadershipThe mentors and champions who influenced her careerLearning not to “die on every hill” as a leaderThe importance of timing, reading the room and strategic influenceLetting go without losing your voiceAddressing non-medical drivers of health (housing, food insecurity, access)The evolving challenges facing community healthWhy cross-sector partnerships are essential for lasting impactCreating intentional opportunities for the next generation of leadersThe power of asking “why” with curiosity and empathyThis conversation is a thoughtful reminder that leadership isn’t about winning every battle, it’s about asking better questions, building strong partnerships and staying grounded in purpose. Ryane’s insights challenge us to lead with humility, courage and a deep commitment to community. Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction02:15 – Ryane’s early career and unexpected path into healthcare06:40 – Who influenced her leadership journey10:25 – Learning not to “die on every hill”15:10 – Timing, strategy and reading the room20:30 – Addressing housing, food insecurity & non-medical drivers of health27:45 – The current landscape of community health funding and access33:20 – Why healthcare systems and nonprofits must collaborate39:10 – Creating opportunity and mentorship for emerging leaders44:05 – Final reflections: Ask “why”

    1h 5m

  5. FEB 5

    From Patient to Advocate: Building a Global Community for Thyroid Eye Disease

    In this episode of Eyespiring, host Heather Patrick welcomes Christine Gustafson, Founder, CEO, and Executive Director of the TED Community Organization, for a powerful conversation about patient advocacy, agency, and the life-changing impact of community. Christine shares how her personal journey with thyroid eye disease (TED), marked by isolation and unanswered questions, led her to become an “accidental leader” and build a global nonprofit dedicated to education, connection, and support for those living with TED.   Topics Covered in This Episode What thyroid eye disease (TED) is and how it affects vision, appearance, and quality of lifeThe emotional and psychosocial toll of living with a rare and isolating conditionHow loneliness and stress can impact inflammation and overall healthTurning lived experience into leadership and advocacyThe importance of “agency” in rewriting the patient narrativeBuilding the TED Community Organization from the ground upCreating global support systems through mentorship and collaborationWhy early detection, prevention, and eye health education matterHow community connection improves health outcomesChristine’s story is a reminder that leadership often begins not with a plan, but with compassion, and that no one should have to navigate their health journey alone.   🤝 This episode is brought to you in partnership with Amgen.   ⏱️ Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Christine Gustafson03:45 – What thyroid eye disease is and why it’s often misunderstood08:30 – The isolation of living with TED and never meeting another patient13:15 – Becoming an “accidental leader” through advocacy18:40 – The power of agency and rewriting your personal story23:50 – Building the TED Community Organization29:10 – Why community and connection impact health outcomes34:45 – Mentorship, collaboration, and growing a global movement40:20 – Prevention, early detection, and protecting lifelong vision45:30 – Final reflections and what’s next for the TED CommunityResources TED Community Organization: https://www.tedcommunity.orgPrevent Blindness Texas: https://www.preventblindnesstexas.org

    56 min

  6. JAN 22

    From Concept to Care: How Eye Health Innovations Come to Life with Dr. Carla Mack

    In this episode of Eyespiring, Heather Patrick sits down with Dr. Carla Mack, Head, Global and US Professional Education and Development at Alcon, to explore how new eye care products are developed, how patient and provider voices influence innovation, and what emerging technologies, like AI and digital tools, mean for the future of eye health.   Dr. Mack also shares a powerful personal story about patient advocacy and why using your voice can change your health outcomes.   Topics Covered Include: Dr. Mack’s early inspiration and journey into optometryThe evolution of the optometrist’s role and patient careIntegrating wellness and lifelong learning into a professional careerHow global insights shape eye care product innovationThe role of consumer and professional feedback in product developmentEmerging trends in eye health technology, AI, and diagnosticsThe importance of patient empowerment and self-advocacy⏱️ Episode Highlights (Key Takeaways) 00:01:07 – Early Inspiration in Eye CareDr. Mack shares how exposure to eye care professionals in her youth sparked a lifelong passion for optometry. 00:04:23 – The Impact of Vision on Daily LifeExplains how receiving her first contacts opened a world of clarity and inspired her commitment to improving vision for others. 00:05:35 – Lifelong Learning and Career GrowthFrom academia to global industry leadership, Dr. Mack emphasizes the value of continuous learning and curiosity. 00:09:14 – Staying Grounded and MotivatedHighlights three guiding principles: life happens by you, get out of your comfort zone, and choose your circle wisely. 00:10:58 – Wellness PracticesDiscusses consistent exercise, sleep, nutrition, and a positive mindset as keys to maintaining focus and effectiveness. 00:13:31 – Vision and Brain HealthExplores the eye as a window to systemic health and potential biomarker for early disease detection. 00:14:47 – Advice for Making an ImpactRecommends starting with personal wellness to be equipped to educate, advocate, and influence others in vision and health. 00:15:38 – Evolution of OptometryDiscusses how patient care, new diagnostics, and the concept of patients as consumers have reshaped the profession. 00:18:22 – Advocacy and Community ConnectionsEncourages building relationships within the healthcare system to improve patient care and professional influence. 00:20:09 – Skills for Emerging Eye Care ProfessionalsFocus on patient-centered care and adaptability to evolving technology and practice models. 00:22:03 – Bridging Academia, Patient Care, and IndustryShares how experiences across sectors enhance global eye health strategies. 00:24:04 – Global Insights and Market NuancesHighlights learning about optometry in different countries and adapting products for global impact. 00:26:20 – Consumer Insights and Product DevelopmentExplains how feedback shapes product ideation, testing, launch, and adoption. 00:28:40 – Product Development TimelinesDiscusses the typical 3 – 5-year cycle, adoption period, and sometimes longer timelines for meaningful impact. 00:33:02 – Integrating Eye Care Professional Insights StrategicallyShows how feedback informs five-year global strategies and annual regional plans. 00:33:40 – Emerging Trends in Eye HealthDigital and AI tools, biologics, nutraceuticals, and neuromodulators as drivers of improved access and outcomes. 00:36:28 – Patient Advocacy and Self-EmpowermentIllustrates why using one’s voice and asking questions can dramatically affect health outcomes, including a personal story of her mother’s Parkinson’s diagnosis. 00:39:57 – Closing ThoughtsEmphasizes partnership, advocacy, and engagement with organizations like Alcon and Prevent Blindness Texas to drive change.   🔗 Connect with Us Learn more, volunteer, or support our mission at:Website: www.preventblindnesstexas.org  Facebook: @Eyespiring Instagram: @EyespiringPod LinkedIn: Eyespiring X: @Eyespiring

    41 min

  7. 12/18/2025

    Eyespiring Reflections: Impact, Innovation, and the Future of Vision Care at Prevent Blindness Texas

    As the year comes to a close, Eyespiring takes a moment to reflect on the people, partnerships, and purpose driving Prevent Blindness Texas forward. In this episode, CEO Heather Patrick and VP of Programs & Community Outreach Monica Guerrero look back on a year of growth, impact, and transformation, while sharing what excites them most about the future of vision health. Topics Covered Prevent Blindness Texas’ mission and statewide impactPowerful client success stories and why vision care mattersVision screenings, education, and community outreachAccess to eye exams and glasses for those in needThe growing demand for children’s vision servicesThe importance of follow-up care and care coordinationEducation around diabetes and vision healthVolunteer engagement and leadership opportunitiesSignature fundraising and awareness eventsStrategic priorities for the future of vision care in TexasFrom celebrating milestones and community partnerships to planning for the future, this episode highlights how Prevent Blindness Texas continues to expand access to vision care, and how supporters, volunteers, and advocates can help be the difference. Check out our Impact Report at https://texas.preventblindness.org/prevent-blindness-texas-impact-report/  ⏱️ Timestamps & Highlights 00:00 – Welcome to Eyespiring Heather Patrick introduces a special year-in-review episode focused on reflection and looking ahead. 01:28 – Why the Work Matters Monica Guerrero shares powerful client success stories that anchor the organization’s mission and “why.” 04:50 – By the Numbers: A Year of Impact Over 61,000 individuals screened, 130,000 educated, and 9,200 people connected to eye exams and glasses. 07:11 – Growth, Progress, and What’s Still Needed Reflecting on how far PBT has come—and the work still ahead across Texas. 08:18 – Call to Action: Volunteers Make It Possible How community volunteers help expand screenings, education, and outreach statewide. 09:06 – Investing in Vision Care Why financial assistance for exams and glasses is life-changing for thousands of Texans. 11:33 – Looking Ahead to 2026 Education takes center stage, with growing demand for programs focused on diabetes and vision health. 13:12 – World Sight Day in Action How PBT amplified global vision awareness through community screenings and events. 15:13 – Fundraising That Fuels the Mission Highlights from Tee Off to Prevent Blindness, Eye Stroll for Vision, and new DIY4Sight initiatives. 17:18 – Celebrating Leadership & Volunteer Excellence Recognizing award winners, dedicated volunteers, and board leadership. 20:30 – Collaboration as a Core Value Why partnerships and shared purpose drive sustainable impact. 23:15 – Dark Dining & Year-End Momentum A look at PBT’s signature event and the importance of recognizing champions of vision care. 25:18 – Strategic Planning & the Future of Vision Health Children’s vision, myopia, mental health, and ensuring follow-up care take priority. 28:40 – Be the Difference Heather shares details about PBT’s year-end campaign and how supporters can make an impact. 29:20 – Closing Reflections & Gratitude A heartfelt thank-you and a look ahead to new conversations in the coming year.

    30 min

  8. 12/04/2025

    Caring, Screening, Advocating: How School Nurses Make a Difference

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Eyespiring, Heather Patrick speaks with Melissa Somers, District Nurse for Venus ISD, about her journey from pediatric home health and labor & delivery to school nursing. Nurse Somers shares how vision screenings and partnerships with Prevent Blindness Texas have transformed the lives of students, highlights the unique challenges of school nursing, and emphasizes the importance of advocacy, parent engagement, and community support in promoting eye health.   Topics Covered: 1.    Nurse Somers path from LVN to RN and her experiences in pediatric home health, labor & delivery, and school nursing 2.    The unique role of school nurses and the relationships they build with students 3.    Balancing immediate care with preventative health screenings, including vision and hearing 4.    Real-life impact of vision screenings on students’ learning, behavior, and confidence 5.    How Prevent Blindness Texas supports school nurses and accelerates vision care 6.    Strategies for engaging parents and community members in eye health initiatives 7.    The importance of vision advocacy and integrating health into student success 8.    Tips for aspiring nurses and school nurses seeking to make a difference in their districts   Nurse Somers story highlights how one nurse’s dedication, compassion, and advocacy can transform the educational experience for students while promoting lifelong vision health.   Timestamps & Highlights: · 00:00 – Introduction – Heather welcomes listeners and introduces Nurse Melissa Somers. · 01:08 – Melissa’s Nursing Journey – From LVN to RN; pediatric home health to school nursing. · 03:08 – Why School Nursing is Special – Creating a safe space and forming long-term relationships with students. · 04:18 – Lessons from Previous Nursing Roles – Pediatric and labor & delivery experience shaped her calm, resourceful approach. · 05:47 – From Elementary to High School Nursing – Differences in student needs and responsibilities at different grade levels. · 07:10 – Advice for Aspiring Nurses & Early Career Professionals – Importance of empathy, compassion, and finding your calling. · 09:32 – A Day in the Life of a District Nurse – Balancing urgent care with preventative screenings and health education. · 11:59 – Challenges in School Nursing Today – Mental health, parent communication, and workflow logistics. · 13:48 – Vision Screenings & PBT Partnership – Becoming a certified vision screener and the power of early detection. · 18:18 – Impact Stories – Students whose vision screenings dramatically improved classroom performance. · 20:05 – High School Screenings – The importance of maintaining vision checks for older students. · 21:26 – Tips for Nurses Considering Partnerships – Taking the first step with Prevent Blindness Texas. · 22:39 – Engaging Parents & Community – How volunteers, parents, and teachers can support eye health programs. · 24:22 – Vision Advocacy in Schools – School nurses bridging gaps in access to care. · 26:25 – Integrating Health Into Student Success – Early detection of health issues improves learning and behavior. · 27:32 – Key Takeaways for Students – Feeling cared for, being heard, and understanding that their health matters. · 28:37 – Final Thoughts – Vision is more than seeing: volunteer, listen, and take every health concern seriously. · 31:07 – Get Involved with Prevent Blindness Texas – Ways to volunteer, get certified, donate, or support student eye health.

    32 min
See All (21)

Trailer

About

The mission of Prevent Blindness Texas is to prevent blindness and preserve sight. We are leaders and change agents in the eye health space here to empower you!

Information

  • Creator
    Prevent Blindness Texas
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Prevent Blindness Texas
  • Show Website
    Eyespiring