Nerdy Optometrist

Ukti Vora
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SCIENCE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Whether you are an optometrist by accident or by choice, this podcast channel is meant for you. Hi! I am Ukti Vora, an Indian optometrist who bumped into this wonderful profession by accident and fell in love with it. My struggle from India to the USA inspired me to start this podcast channel for all the optometry enthusiasts out there. This podcast series is a one stop shop for students, fresh graduates and experienced eye care professionals who want to explore new opportunities. It has a group of speakers who share their real life experiences and important takeaway messages that will help you better understand the opportunities in the eye care profession around the world. I am happy to invite you to my nerdy journey in the world of Optometry.

  1. 90. Building Power Brands in Modern Optometry with Eugene Shatsman

    2D AGO

    90. Building Power Brands in Modern Optometry with Eugene Shatsman

    In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, I sit down with Eugene Shatsman, Managing Partner of National Strategic Group (NSG), to talk about what it truly takes to build a thriving, future-ready optometry practice. With over 17 years of experience, Eugene is known for combining business strategy, consumer behavior research, and data-driven marketing to help practices grow smarter, not just bigger. Through NSG’s network of 100+ experts, he helps optimize everything from SEO and digital marketing to patient reactivation, reputation management, and growth strategy. ✨ In our conversation, we explore: 📈 Why marketing without strategy doesn’t work 🔎 The real role of SEO in patient acquisition ⭐ How online reviews influence modern consumer behavior 📬 Why patient reactivation may be your biggest missed opportunity 🔮 What leaders must prioritize to stay competitive in eye care If you’re serious about practice growth, patient experience, and long-term sustainability in optometry, this conversation is for you. We also wrap things up with a "This orThat" game segment, where Eugene shared his favorite picks.   To learn more about NSG visit: https://www.nationalstrategic.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugeneshatsman/ If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Nerdy Optometrist so you never miss a conversation shaping the future of eye care. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. #Optometry #PracticeGrowth #EyeCareBusiness #HealthcareMarketing #SEOforDoctors #DigitalHealth #PracticeManagement #NerdyOptometrist Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    38 min
  2. 89. AI that fits today with Colton Calandrella

    JAN 23

    89. AI that fits today with Colton Calandrella

    In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, I sit down with Colton Calandrella, Co-Founder and CEO of Barti, for a conversation that goes beyond software and gets to the heart of why eye care technology needs a serious rethink. Colton is one of those rare founders who leads with both purpose and precision. Before Barti, he built software for Fortune 500 companies at Bain, launched an AI venture inside an accelerator, created a startup that reduced airport wait times, and even began his career as a teacher—supporting high school students in math and special education. That diverse journey deeply shapes how he’s approaching problems in eye care today. In our conversation, we explore: 👁️ How Colton first found his way into eye care 🚀 The story behind Barti and how the company got its name 🤖 How AI is changing the day-to-day reality for eye care practitioners 📉 What practices often underestimate about the cost of outdated EHR systems ⚡ Common misconceptions about EHRs—and about Barti specifically 📈 Real success stories and how easily practices can transition to modern systems 🔮 What the future of eye care could look like when innovation is done right We also wrap things up with a rapid-fire round, where Colton shares founder habits, favorite reads, travel picks, and a few things you might not expect. 🎁 Special Listener Perk: https://barti.com/nerdy-optometrist Barti is offering something special for the Nerdy Optometrist community. 👉 Use promo code NERDY, book a demo, and receive a $50 gift card. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Nerdy Optometrist so you never miss a conversation shaping the future of eye care. Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. #EyeCareInnovation #AIinEyeCare #DigitalHealth #Optometry #HealthTech #StartupStories #NerdyOptometrist #Barti Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    36 min
  3. 88. Mindful Leadership, Coaching & Eye Care with Dr.Melissa Barnett

    12/19/2025

    88. Mindful Leadership, Coaching & Eye Care with Dr.Melissa Barnett

    In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, we welcome Dr. Melissa Barnett — world-renowned optometrist, educator, author, certified coach, and host of the Clearly KC podcast. Dr. Barnett shares her journey from clinical excellence in dry eye disease, specialty and scleral lenses, keratoconus, and presbyopia to embracing coaching, mindful leadership, and wellness as a new avenue for impact. We discuss what inspired her transition, how mindfulness works in today’s competitive healthcare landscape, the real benefits coaching offers optometrists and professionals, and success stories from her clients. She also opens up about the challenges she faced while building this path and the lessons learned along the way. Recognized with honors such as the Legends Award, Scleral Lens Practitioner of the Year, and named one of Vision Monday’s Most Influential Women in Optical, Dr. Barnett continues to shape the future of eye care and leadership. Key Takeaways: • Dr. Barnett’s transition into coaching and mindful leadership • How wellness and leadership create sustainable success in practice • Real-world benefits of coaching for optometrists and professionals • Success stories, challenges, and honest lessons from her journey • A powerful final takeaway message for anyone seeking growth & more… And don’t miss the fun finale, our “This or That” game segment, where we get to know Dr. Barnett beyond the titles! Follow us for more inspiring conversations at the intersection of eye care, leadership, and innovation. You can explore all episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.com Checkout Alpine Blue Coaching to learn more : https://alpinebluecoaching.info/ Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    25 min
  4. 87. Researching Smarter, Not Harder - AI Breakthrough with Dr. Gopinath Madeswaran

    11/18/2025

    87. Researching Smarter, Not Harder - AI Breakthrough with Dr. Gopinath Madeswaran

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Gopinath Madeswaran, an award-winning optometrist, clinician, educator, and researcher who has made remarkable contributions to the field of optometry and healthcare research. From being a gold medalist at the Elite School of Optometry and Manipal Academy of Higher Education to mentoring hundreds through Opto Research Consultancy Services, Dr. Gopinath’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. He shares how he first discovered optometry, his evolution from clinician to accomplished researcher, and what led him to establish his own research consultancy. Dr. Gopinath also opens up about his mission “to contribute to research, teaching, and impart evidence-based practice for healthcare professionals.” One of the most exciting parts of this conversation: how he embraced AI while many remain fearful of it — and how AI tools have transformed his work, productivity, and approach to research. Key Takeaways: Discover how Dr. Gopinath transitioned from clinician to respected researcher and mentorLearn why he chose to become a research consultant and how he built a thriving consultancyHear how embracing AI (instead of fearing it) has empowered his research and teachingInsights into his favorite AI tools and his vision for the future of research and optometryRoadblocks, reality checks, and honest lessons from his personal journey & more...Don’t miss the fun finale where we get to know Dr. Gopinath on a lighter note in our "Rapid Fire" segment! Connect  with Dr. Gopinath at optoresearch2022@gmail.com. Follow us for more inspiring conversations. You can check out all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.com Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    1 hr
  5. 86. Vision in Motion with Tsu Shan Chambers

    10/27/2025

    86. Vision in Motion with Tsu Shan Chambers

    In this episode, we sit down with Tsu Shan Chambers, a former optometrist who transitioned into acting, writing, and producing. Tsu Shan shares the inspiring journey of leaving a stable career in optometry to pursue a life in storytelling, the challenges of breaking into the film industry, and the creative process behind bringing My Eyes to life. Key Takeaways: - Learn how to pivot successfully from one career to a completely different path filled with passion. -The importance of vision, both literal and metaphorical in her creative work -Hear how it can help spread the word about eye care and more & more... Don’t miss the game segment where we get to know the lighter side of Tsu Shan Chambers ,  in our "Rapid Fire" game segment. 🎬 Watch My Eyes here: https://www.amazon.com/My-Eyes-Angela-How/dp/B0DPY418HT Follow us for more inspiring stories and behind-the-scenes insights. You can check all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.com Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    25 min
  6. 85. Blink Twice If You Love AI with Dr. Rehan Ahmed

    06/18/2025

    85. Blink Twice If You Love AI with Dr. Rehan Ahmed

    In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rehan Ahmed, a board-certified ophthalmologist, healthtech innovator, and co-editor of AI in Eyecare published by Jobson. As the Chief Medical Officer at Blink by Global Medical, Dr. Ahmed brings a unique perspective at the intersection of clinical excellence and cutting-edge technology. We explore his multifaceted journey—from performing surgeries to scaling tech-driven solutions in eye care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, technologist, or someone curious about where vision care is headed, this episode offers valuable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in ophthalmology. Some of the episode highlights include; How Dr. Ahmed’s journey into eye care beganBalancing clinical ophthalmology with entrepreneurshipWhat sparked his passion for technology and innovationThe AI and diagnostic tools that excite him most todayMajor roadblocks faced along the way—and how he overcame them & moreDon’t miss the game segment where we get to know the lighter side of Dr. Ahmed,  in our "Rapid Fire" game segment. Connect with Dr. Rehan Ahmed on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rehan-ahmed-md/ You can check all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.com Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    35 min
  7. 84. AI in focus: Vision, Impact, and Innovation with Dr. Masoud Nafey

    05/20/2025

    84. AI in focus: Vision, Impact, and Innovation with Dr. Masoud Nafey

    In this insightful episode, Dr. Masoud Nafey, an optometrist, 3X tech founder, and strategic advisor, joins us to discuss the potential and power of artificial intelligence in transforming the future of eyecare. From building cutting-edge digital health tools to shaping global strategies at VSP and EssilorLuxottica, Dr. Nafey shares his journey, his perspective on the biggest breakthroughs in smart vision tech, and what eye care professionals need to know as the landscape rapidly evolves. This episode bridges clinical wisdom and AI innovation in a way only Dr. Nafey can. Some of the episode highlights are: 1. How a passion for people led him to optometry 2. His journey from clinic to tech founder and global advisor 3. What sparked his obsession with innovation and AI 4. The one technology he’s most excited about right now 5. How smart tech is reshaping the future of eyecare 6. Key challenges holding back innovation & more. Don’t miss the game segment where we get to know the lighter side of Dr. Nafey,  in our "This or That" game segment. Connect with Dr. Masoud Nafey at 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-masoud-nafey/ You can check all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.com Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    35 min
  8. 83. Build, Grow, Transition, your eye care business with Erich Mattei

    04/18/2025

    83. Build, Grow, Transition, your eye care business with Erich Mattei

    In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Erich Mattei, the dynamic President & CVO of Akrinos, LLC, a practice management consultancy dedicated to helping independent eye care professionals start, grow, and transition their private practices. Erich shares how he found his way into the world of optometry, the vision behind Akrinos (including the story behind its unique name), and how his team is transforming practices across North America. With a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and real-world strategies, Erich brings a fresh perspective to the business of optometry. Key Highlights: 🔹 How Erich got introduced to the eye care industry  🔹 The inspiration and mission behind Akrinos  🔹 What makes Akrinos different and how it supports optometrists  🔹 Business tips for starting, growing and sustaining eyecare practice  🔹 Entrepreneurial challenges and key lessons learned  🔹 A powerful takeaway message for eyecare entrepreneurs Don't miss the fun game segment where we get a glimpse of Erich’s life beyond the business. You can learn more about Erich Mattei and Akrinos: 🔗 Website: www.akrinos.com 🔗 LinkedIn: /in/erichmattei Listen to the full episode on your favorite streaming platform. Listen to the full episode on your favorite streaming platform.  🎥 YouTube: https://lnkd.in/g8t3SSgq 🌐 Website: www.nerdyoptometrist.com #OptometryBusiness  #PrivatePracticeGrowth  #EyeCareLeadership #Entrepreneurship  #HealthcareInnovation  #Podcast #Akrinos  #ModernOptometry Support the show Thanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

    50 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Whether you are an optometrist by accident or by choice, this podcast channel is meant for you. Hi! I am Ukti Vora, an Indian optometrist who bumped into this wonderful profession by accident and fell in love with it. My struggle from India to the USA inspired me to start this podcast channel for all the optometry enthusiasts out there. This podcast series is a one stop shop for students, fresh graduates and experienced eye care professionals who want to explore new opportunities. It has a group of speakers who share their real life experiences and important takeaway messages that will help you better understand the opportunities in the eye care profession around the world. I am happy to invite you to my nerdy journey in the world of Optometry.

Information

  • Creator
    Ukti Vora
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    90
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Nerdy Optometrist
  • Show Website
    Nerdy Optometrist