Ryan Reflects with Dr. Ryan Corte | Optometry Podcast

Ryan Corte, Optometrist
  • 5.0 (3)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Ryan Reflects is an optometry podcast designed to empower student, new graduate, and seasoned optometrists to uncover their true potential and achieve lasting, fulfilling success. Through insightful stories, discussions, deep dives, Dr. Ryan Corte helps you build essential personal and professional skills that empower you to thrive not only in optometry but in every area of life. Tune in to discover inspiration, practical tools, and strategies that enable you to make a meaningful impact and lead a balanced, purpose-driven career.

  1. APR 9

    Dr. Don Railsback: From Optometry Career Pivot to Building Vision Care Direct

    Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Don Railsback, an optometrist and entrepreneur, to explore his journey from private practice to vision plan innovator and the birth of Vision Care Direct. They discuss the evolution of optometry, challenges in healthcare, and strategies for thriving in a changing industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Don Railsback 03:27 The Journey from Optometry to Vision Plans 07:31 Navigating Career Changes and Challenges 11:28 The Importance of Mentorship in Optometry 13:32 Challenges in the Optometry Profession 19:27 The Future of Vision Care and Legislative Changes 24:12 Evaluating Vision Plans and Provider Impact 27:26 The 'Cook or Be Cooked' Philosophy 30:16 The Importance of State Associations 34:05 Navigating Market Changes and Vision Plans 39:29 Developing a Unique Model for Optometry 43:32 Empowering Future Generations of Optometrists Key Topics The journey from private practice to vision plan innovatorChallenges faced by optometrists in a changing healthcare landscapeStrategies for independent optometrists to thrive amidst industry consolidation

    47 min

  2. MAR 19

    The Role of Axial Length in Modern Myopia Management

    Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of measuring axial length in myopia management, how to incorporate it into clinical practice, and the benefits of using biometers for tracking eye growth over time. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Myopia and Axial Length 02:48 The Importance of Tracking Axial Length 04:24 Integrating Axial Length Measurements in Practice 07:06 Utilizing Technology for Myopia Management 10:08 Choosing the Right Equipment for Axial Length Measurement 12:56 Future of Myopia Management in Optometry Takeaways Axial length tells you where the eye is heading, refraction shows where it is today.Measuring axial length helps predict and manage myopia progression.Contact biometers are cost-effective and space-efficient tools for practices.Tracking eye growth over time educates parents and improves treatment decisions. Resources DGH Scanmate A Contact Biometer: https://www.dghtech.com/products/scanmate-aOculus Myopia Master: https://www.oculus.com/medical/myopia-master/Topcon MYAH Biometer: https://www.topconmedical.com/products/myahZeiss IOLMaster: https://www.zeiss.com/meditec/en/products/biometry/iolmaster.htmlHaag-Streit Lenstar: https://haag-streit.com/en/lenstar/

    17 min

  3. FEB 12

    What To Do When Bad Weather Hits Your Optometry Practice

    Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of having an inclement weather policy for private practice owners, particularly in the field of optometry. He shares personal experiences navigating severe weather events and emphasizes the need for effective communication and operational guidelines to ensure patient safety and business continuity during unpredictable weather conditions. The conversation highlights the significance of preparing for natural disasters and the necessity of having clear policies in place to manage staff and patient expectations during such events. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Inclement Weather in Private Practice 10:18 Establishing Effective Communication and Policies 17:51 Resuming Operations Safely and Efficiently Takeaways Having an inclement weather policy is crucial for private practices.Effective communication with staff and patients is essential during storms.Safety should always be the top priority for patient care.Operational guidelines help navigate unpredictable weather events.It's important to assess the situation dynamically as weather changes.Bringing patients in earlier can help manage schedules during storms.Clear policies on pay and time off are necessary for staff.Utilizing technology can enhance communication during emergencies.Resuming operations safely and efficiently is critical after a storm.Preparation is key to managing inclement weather in practice.

    19 min
  4. Implementing Stellest Lenses in Modern Myopia Management | Ryan Reflects

    JAN 22

    Implementing Stellest Lenses in Modern Myopia Management | Ryan Reflects

    Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the introduction of Essilor's Stellest lenses, the first spectacle lens in the US proven to slow pediatric myopia progression. He explores the increasing prevalence of myopia, its risk factors, and the importance of proactive myopia management in optometry. Dr. Corte shares insights on how to effectively incorporate Stellest lenses into clinical practice, the science behind their design, and the benefits of myopia control. He emphasizes the need for patient education, proper billing practices, and the importance of ongoing monitoring and follow-up care for myopic patients. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Essilor's Stellest Lenses 01:05 Understanding Myopia and Its Risks 08:57 How Stellest Lenses Work 11:21 The Importance of Myopia Management 14:13 Implementing Myopia Control in Practice 19:52 Patient Education and Consent Forms 22:51 Best Practices for Myopia Management Takeaways Essilor's Stellest lens is the first US spectacle lens proven to slow myopia progression.Myopia is increasingly recognized as a disease process rather than just a refractive error.The prevalence of myopia is rising, with significant implications for children's eye health.Proactive management and early detection of myopia are crucial for long-term outcomes.Screen time and lack of outdoor activity are significant risk factors for myopia in children.Stellest lenses offer a low-barrier treatment option for myopic children.Data shows Stellest lenses can slow myopia progression by 71%.Patient education is essential for successful myopia management.Implementing a structured myopia management protocol can enhance practice efficiency.The optometry profession has a unique opportunity to improve pediatric eye care through myopia management.

    27 min

  5. 12/30/2025

    Ryan Reflects On 2025 and Looks Forward To What's Ahead | Ryan Reflects

    Ryan Corte, OD, reflects on the challenges and growth experienced throughout 2025, emphasizing the importance of reflection and learning. He shares insights from conversations with colleagues in the optometry field, highlighting the diverse paths within the profession and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. Looking ahead to 2026, Ryan expresses his commitment to providing valuable content and fostering community engagement among eye care professionals. Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on 2025: A Year in Review 02:49 The Evolution of Optometry: Insights and Innovations 06:11 Navigating Challenges: Personal Journeys in Optometry 08:53 Embracing Change: The Future of Eye Care 12:07 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations for 2026 Takeaways Reflecting on the past year is crucial for personal growth.Optometry offers diverse career paths and opportunities.Embracing challenges can lead to resilience and strength.Community engagement is vital for the future of optometry.The profession is evolving with advancements like AI.Authenticity in sharing experiences fosters connection.Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success.2026 presents opportunities for intentional growth.Feedback from the community shapes future content.The journey in optometry is unique for everyone.

    16 min

  6. 12/04/2025

    Dr. Chris Wolfe: Navigating Private Practice to Corporate Leasehold Optometry

    In a conversation with Dr. Chris Wolfe, Dr. Ryan Corte shares his journey from being a student at Ohio State to becoming a successful practice owner in Asheville, North Carolina. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he faced while transitioning from a residency to private practice, including the rebranding of his practice and the use of AI in the process. The discussion also delves into the differences between corporate and private practices, the impact of private equity on community practices, and the importance of building a legacy in optometry. Dr. Corte emphasizes the value of sharing knowledge through his podcast, 'Ryan Reflects', and the need for collaboration within the optometry community. Chapters 00:00 Journey Through Optometry: From Student to Practice Owner 02:45 The Rebranding Experience: Intentionality and AI 05:46 Corporate vs. Private Practice: Perspectives on Patient Care 11:49 Navigating the LensCrafters Experience: Opportunities and Challenges 17:56 The Value of Community: Private Equity and Practice Transition 23:36 Building a Legacy: The Future of Optometry Practices 29:38 Podcasting for Change: Sharing Knowledge in Optometry Takeaways Dr. Corte's journey from student to practice owner showcases growth and potential.Rebranding requires intentionality and can benefit from AI tools.Corporate practices can offer opportunities for high-level patient care.Private equity may not align with community-focused practice values.Building a legacy in optometry is crucial for community impact.Podcasting serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences.The importance of collaboration among optometrists is emphasized.Navigating the challenges of practice ownership requires strategic planning.AI can streamline processes in practice management and branding.Community service remains a core value in optometry.

    46 min

  7. 11/20/2025

    Preparing for the Year End Rush in Optometry: How to Stay Organized and Effective

    Dr. Ryan Corte discusses strategies for optometrists to effectively manage the busy year-end period. He emphasizes the importance of optimizing patient scheduling, communicating with the team and patients, fostering team morale, ensuring operational efficiency, and addressing compliance and financial planning. The goal is to not only survive the year-end rush but to thrive with energy and gratitude as they head into 2026. Chapters 00:00 Preparing for Year-End Success 05:14 Optimizing Patient Scheduling 09:32 Team Coordination and Morale 11:34 Compliance and Financial Preparedness Takeaways Be intentional about finishing the year strong.Optimize patient scheduling to manage high demand.Communicate effectively with your team and patients.Foster team morale during the busy season.Prepare operationally for efficiency and effectiveness.Ensure compliance and financial planning are in place.Show gratitude and appreciation to your team.Utilize checklists for supplies and equipment.Schedule meetings with accountants for financial review.Thrive during the year-end rush, not just survive.

    14 min

  8. 10/30/2025

    How to Rebrand Your Optometry Practice Step-by-Step

    Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the comprehensive process of rebranding an optometry practice, emphasizing the importance of clarity, consistency, and connection. He shares his personal journey of rebranding from Northlake Eye to Reflect Vision Care, detailing the steps involved, including developing a brand identity, legal considerations, internal team alignment, and effective communication with patients. Dr. Corte highlights the significance of thorough preparation and the challenges that may arise during the rebranding process, ultimately encouraging practitioners to approach rebranding with intention and a focus on community impact. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Rebranding in Optometry 03:05 Steps to Develop a Brand Identity 05:49 Legal and Administrative Considerations 08:55 Internal Communication and Team Alignment 11:38 External Communication and Patient Engagement 14:34 Final Thoughts on the Rebranding an Optometry Practice Takeaways Rebranding is not just about a new name or logo.Clarity, consistency, and connection are key to branding.Developing a brand identity requires strategic planning.Legal compliance is crucial during the rebranding process.Internal communication is essential for team alignment.External communication should be clear and transparent for patients.A checklist can help manage the rebranding process effectively.Rebranding can take time and requires patience.Community engagement is important post-rebranding.Rebranding should be approached with intention and purpose.

    17 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Ryan Reflects is an optometry podcast designed to empower student, new graduate, and seasoned optometrists to uncover their true potential and achieve lasting, fulfilling success. Through insightful stories, discussions, deep dives, Dr. Ryan Corte helps you build essential personal and professional skills that empower you to thrive not only in optometry but in every area of life. Tune in to discover inspiration, practical tools, and strategies that enable you to make a meaningful impact and lead a balanced, purpose-driven career.

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