In this episode…

Most eye conditions are managed, not truly healed. But what if we could actually regenerate the ocular surface instead of just maintaining it?

Drawing from his experience as a leading expert in ocular surface disease, Dr. Julian Prosia explains that true healing starts by addressing inflammation and nerve dysfunction at the root. He highlights how amniotic membrane therapy delivers growth factors that accelerate healing, reduce scarring, and even support nerve regeneration. The result is a shift from temporary relief to long-term restoration, fundamentally changing how clinicians approach stubborn ocular surface conditions.

In this episode of Cleinman Connect Podcast's Optometrist Unleashed series, Dr. Trevor Miranda is joined by Dr. Julian Prosia, CEO of Ophthalogix Canada, to discuss healing the ocular surface through regenerative medicine. Dr. Prosia outlines how amniotic membrane therapy works, when to use it in practice, and its role in managing dry eye and corneal disease. He also shares advice on implementing this technology efficiently in everyday optometry.

Sarah Nwaerondu is the VP of Marketing and Communications at Calgary Wild FC, the city’s professional women’s soccer team in the National Soccer League. Sarah’s background spans sports marketing with the Calgary Flames, entrepreneurial ventures like Rebel Muse Marketing, and expertise in digital marketing, bringing a creative and disruptive approach to brand-building.

In this episode…

A strong brand isn’t just seen, it’s felt. But what actually makes people remember you, and more importantly, trust you enough to come back?

For Sarah Nwaerondu and Kevin Wilhelm, the answer is clear: it starts with intention and evolves through connection. Drawing from her experience building a professional sports brand from scratch, Sarah believes that a brand isn’t a logo, but a living identity shaped by how you show up, listen, and adapt. Kevin echoes this, emphasizing that consistency and clarity are what turn recognition into trust. Together, their insights reveal that memorable brands aren’t static — they grow alongside their audience and become something people genuinely connect with.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, featuring 4TheRecord, Tyler Kemp is joined by Kevin Wilhelm of Marketing4ECPs and Sarah Nwaerondu of Calgary Wild FC, to discuss how to build a brand patients remember through consistency, trust, and meaningful audience connection. Kevin and Sarah also share advice on balancing brand awareness with lead generation and using social media as a real-time feedback tool.

In this episode…

Price is easy to compare, but it rarely tells the whole story. When you’re choosing who to work with, are you picking the lowest number on the invoice, or the partner who actually helps your business run better over time?

Michele Schenley and Dennis Holloway believe that the real value comes from choosing partners who treat your business like their own, not just vendors who fulfill orders. They point to a model built on flexibility, like tailored shipping programs, easy returns, and systems that adapt to how each practice actually operates instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all approach. The takeaway is simple but powerful: When you stop chasing the lowest price and start prioritizing alignment, service, and trust, the long-term gains far outweigh any short-term savings.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Michele Schenley and Dennis Holloway of E-Dr., to discuss why partnership matters more than price in contact lens distribution. They break down how tailored programs improve efficiency, how data and analytics support smarter decisions, and why ease of ordering impacts patient care. Michele and Dennis also talk about building long-term trust through service and flexibility.

In this episode…

Style has always been personal, and now it can shift as easily as your day does. When eyewear becomes something you can change on a whim, does it stop being just functional and start becoming something more expressive?

Sarah Vinson, a longtime advocate for independent eyewear and personal style, explains that modular eyewear allows people to start within their comfort zones, then gradually experiment with bolder colors, patterns, and shapes without committing to an entirely new frame. Because the investment is smaller, patients feel more comfortable taking risks they might otherwise avoid, treating style as something they can evolve rather than get “right” all at once. Over time, that flexibility builds confidence, turning eyewear into a daily tool for self-expression rather than a static necessity, while also reinforcing the value of maintaining high-quality lenses without compromise.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined once again by Sarah Vinson, Owner and CEO of Lunette USA, to discuss the evolution of modular eyewear and its role in modern optical retail. Sarah explores how interchangeable designs blend fashion and function, how introducing new mini collections encourages experimentation, and how practices can boost patient engagement. She also talks about building confidence through small style changes.

In this episode…

A great patient experience rarely starts in the exam room. It often begins days — or even weeks — earlier, when someone searches for a provider, reads reviews, and decides whether booking an appointment feels easy or frustrating. So what actually makes a patient experience feel seamless from start to finish?

Drawing from her experience helping healthcare practices scale with smarter systems, Jenn Denham explains that the ideal patient journey is about removing friction points at every step. She points to practical touchpoints like excellent online reviews, mobile-friendly scheduling, and automated communication that keeps patients informed before and after their visit. When those pieces work together, practices not only attract more patients but also create a smoother experience for both staff and the people they serve.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Jenn Denham, Chief Growth Officer at Aloha, to discuss creating a seamless patient experience for modern practices. They explore the role of social proof in attracting new patients, how mobile-friendly online scheduling removes booking friction, and why automated texts and digital intake forms improve efficiency. Jenn also shares advice on using automation to strengthen patient retention and referrals.

In this episode…

For decades, clearer vision meant getting a stronger pair of glasses every year. However, shouldn’t the overall goal not be just correcting blur, but slowing the eye’s growth and protecting vision long-term?

Drawing from her experience as a pediatric optometrist and educator, Dr. Marie Bodack explains that modern myopia care goes far beyond prescriptions. She emphasizes that the real issue isn’t simply nearsightedness but the physical growth of the eyeball itself, something clinicians can now measure and track. That shift changes how optometrists approach treatment, turning routine exams into opportunities to actively slow progression and protect future eye health.

In this episode of Optometrist Unleashed, a Cleinman Connect Podcast, Dr. Trevor Miranda is joined by Dr. Marie Bodack, Chief of Pediatric Primary Care at Southern College of Optometry, to discuss modern myopia management. They explore why myopia rates are rising, how treatment tools like atropine and multifocal lenses work, and the importance of axial length monitoring. Dr. Bodack also shares advice on talking with parents about treatment options.

In this episode…

Operational friction rarely shows up as a crisis. It hides in extra clicks, double entries, missed confirmations, and the quiet frustration that builds when systems don’t quite talk to each other. What would change if your practice software could eliminate those pain points instead of adding to them?

For Anne Chong, a systems-minded engineer who spent three decades refining practice workflows, the answer is simple: optimize every step. She believes that streamlining isn’t about flashy features but about reducing unnecessary motion, whether that’s cutting down keystrokes, eliminating screen hopping, or integrating equipment so data flows automatically instead of being retyped. When those small inefficiencies disappear, teams gain time, clarity, and the freedom to focus on patient care rather than paperwork.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Anne Chong, President and CEO of Visual-Eyes, to discuss streamlining processes and reducing operational friction. They explore eliminating small inefficiencies, leveraging integrations to reduce double entry, and using automation to improve communication and collections. Anne also shares advice on choosing software that supports smooth transitions and long-term growth.

In this episode…

Running a modern optometric practice can feel like trying to win a game with too few players on the field. Could the key to growth be expanding your team beyond your four walls rather than cramming more into your existing team’s day?

According to Cory Pinegar, a founder who built and scaled teams across multiple countries, the answer lies in redefining what “in-office” really needs to mean. He explains that many of the most time-consuming responsibilities in a practice don’t require a physical presence, only the right training and accountability. When practices embrace a hybrid model and focus on outcomes instead of hallway visibility, they unlock both financial breathing room and operational momentum.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Cory Pinegar, Founder of Teem, to discuss how virtual team members can elevate optometric practices. They explore building a hybrid workforce, solving staffing shortages, and maintaining HIPAA compliance with remote teams. Cory also shares advice on defining clear scoreboards so practices can measure what winning looks like.

In this episode…

The practices that win tomorrow’s patients rarely start by asking for an immediate appointment. They start by becoming familiar, memorable, and trusted long before someone ever searches “eye exam near me.” So how do digital awareness ads quietly shape the buying decisions your future patients haven’t even realized they’re making yet?

Drawing from his experience as a marketing strategist in the eye care space, Tyler Kemp explains that awareness is the largest and most overlooked stage of the patient journey. He compares it to the digital version of a billboard: you can’t click it, you’re not meant to act immediately, but it plants a seed that grows into recognition and trust when the need arises. For Tyler, the real opportunity lies in consistently showing up where your audience already spends time online so that when they are ready to book, your name is the one they already know.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Tyler Kemp, Account Manager at Marketing4ECPs, to discuss how digital awareness ads influence the patients of tomorrow. They break down the marketing funnel, explain the difference between awareness and conversion ads, and share real-world examples of how repetition builds trust. Tyler also shares advice on focusing your strategy around future patients, not just today’s bookings.

In this episode…

In the evolving world of healthcare, innovation is key. But how does the future of eye care look when technology like AI becomes more integrated into daily practices? As the demand for efficiency grows, will AI become a reliable partner or a replacement for the human touch?

According to Dr. Eric Jennings, a leading ophthalmologist and advocate for AI-driven solutions, the future of healthcare is a delicate balance of technology and human interaction. He believes that AI, especially in the form of AI-powered scribe technology, can help doctors be more present with patients by handling mundane administrative tasks. This not only reduces burnout but also allows for more personalized care, making time for what truly matters — patient interaction.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Dr. Trevor Miranda is joined by Dr. Eric Jennings, Medical Director of Ophthalmology at ModMed, to discuss the evolving role of AI in the eye care industry. They dive into how AI is changing workflows, improving accuracy in diagnostics, and the long-term implications of its integration into practices. Dr. Jennings also shares insights into the AI-powered tools shaping the future of healthcare, from AI scribes to personalized patient care.

In this episode…

Optometry is evolving fast, and the technology that once felt like a bonus is now becoming central to how practices run and grow. So how can AI actually make practice management simpler while uncovering revenue that’s been hiding in plain sight?

According to Josh Gosnell, a healthcare technology leader, the real power of AI is in making practice operations smoother and streamlining processes while helping teams spot opportunities that would otherwise be missed. He points out that many optometry practices are sitting on six or even seven figures of untapped revenue potential inside their active patient database; they just need the right platform to unlock it. The bigger takeaway is that AI isn’t about replacing staff; it’s about helping practices run smarter, connect with patients more effectively, and grow with less friction.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Josh Gosnell, Vice President of Revenue at Adit, to discuss how AI-driven platforms are transforming optometry practice management. They explore consolidating tools into one system, finding missed revenue opportunities, and using AI call intelligence to improve patient engagement. Josh also shares advice on what’s next for outbound AI in practice growth.

Olivia Leduc is the Manager of Strategic HR Services at Cleinman Performance Partners, where she leads the HR support team to ensure that HR policies, processes, and documentation are compliant, efficient, and built to support scalable business operations. With experience in leadership, HR, and recruitment process development, Olivia drives improvements in operational efficiency and talent retention for clients.

In this episode…

Employee engagement isn’t just about keeping people happy at work. It’s about uncovering what your team is really thinking, even when they might not feel comfortable saying it out loud. So how do you get honest answers that actually lead to better performance, stronger culture, and real growth?

According to Jenny Rowell, engagement surveys work best when they’re treated as strategic tools rather than check-the-box exercises. Olivia Leduc also adds that surveys are powerful because they surface perspectives leaders may not agree with, but need to hear in order to understand how their actions are actually landing with the team. Together, their insight underscores that when feedback is anonymous, unbiased, and acted on thoughtfully — rather than ignored or cherry-picked — it can drive meaningful improvements in trust, retention, and overall performance.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Jenny Rowell and Olivia Leduc, HR Business Partner and Manager of Strategic HR Services at Cleinman Performance Partners, to discuss the power of engagement surveys. They break down what engagement surveys really measure, why anonymity matters, and how leaders should interpret the results. Jenny and Olivia also give advice on turning feedback into meaningful action that improves trust and long-term team engagement.

In this episode…

Turning real-world experience into something that holds up under scrutiny is challenging. Plenty of ideas work in practice, but very few make the leap into something provable, repeatable, and defensible. So what does it take to transform hands-on results into evidence strong enough to earn a patent?

For Dr. Jeffrey Hockings, the answer starts with relentless testing in the real world. Drawing from his experience as a long-time natural health practitioner, he explains that the breakthrough came from years of refining one system, watching outcomes closely, and removing anything that didn’t consistently work. By treating every patient’s results as data, he built a process that could be documented, defended, and eventually patented. The big lesson is that innovation isn’t just inspiration; it’s discipline applied over time.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Dr. Jeffrey Hockings, Founder and CEO of Diabetes Reversal Group (DRG), to discuss turning lived clinical experience into a patented system for reversing type 2 diabetes. They explore why proof matters more than promises, how long-term consistency led to credible results, and what it took to protect the process legally. Dr. Hockings also talks about scaling impact through licensing and partnerships.

In this episode…

Building a thriving optometry practice takes more than clinical skill. It requires a clear vision for growth, a deep commitment to people, and the discipline to build systems that support both. So what does it really take to scale successfully while keeping culture, care, and consistency intact?

For Dr. Trevor Miranda, sustainable growth begins with a relentless focus on the patient experience. Drawing from his years as a seasoned optometrist and practice builder, he explains that every patient interaction is an opportunity to create trust, loyalty, and long-term impact. From thoughtful recommendations to seamless handoffs and empowered teams, his approach shows how culture and process can drive sustainable growth far beyond a single clinic.

In this episode of Optometrist Unleashed, a Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Dr. Trevor Miranda, Founder of Cowichan Eyecare, to discuss building thriving optometry practices and fostering a standout team culture. They explore scaling through cold starts, creating systems that balance medical care with retail, and why culture is a measurable growth driver. Dr. Miranda also shares advice on leadership, specialization, and maintaining joy in practice as your business expands.

In this episode…

The pace of change in marketing and technology keeps accelerating, and what worked a year ago is already dated. As we enter 2026, which shifts actually matter and which ones are just noise?

Kim Carson believes that the biggest trends heading into 2026 revolve around smarter use of AI, more intentional communication with patients, and a renewed focus on trust. Drawing from her experience as a marketing strategist, she points to AI tools that reduce friction, from booking appointments to personalized outreach, while still keeping the human connection intact. The takeaway is clear: practices that combine innovation with consistency will be the ones that stand out and grow sustainably.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson and Kate Virzi discuss key trends to pay attention to as practices prepare for 2026. They explore how AI is reshaping marketing workflows, why email and audience segmentation still matter, and how local SEO continues to drive patient discovery. Kim and Kate also talk about creative tactics, like standing out in unexpected marketing channels, to build trust and visibility in the year ahead.

In this episode…

Independent optometry practices can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also feel isolating when challenges stack up and the pressure increases. What does it take to build a practice that can weather uncertainty, grow through change, and still support the people behind it?

For Amanda Van Voris and Nancy Dewald, long-time optometry consultants, resilience starts with trust and accountability. They explain that meaningful growth happens when practice owners allow themselves to ask for help, step back from the noise, and create space to think clearly about what matters most. That mindset, they note, doesn’t just strengthen the business; it gives leaders the confidence to guide their teams through change with clarity and purpose.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Amanda Van Voris and Nancy Dewald of Cleinman Performance Partners to discuss building resilient optometry practices. They explore why accountability drives sustainable growth, how peer support reduces isolation for owners, and what vulnerability looks like as a leadership strength. Amanda and Nancy also offer advice on creating alignment by putting the right people in the right roles.

In this episode…

Leadership in fast-moving industries rarely comes down to titles or tactics alone. It often shows up in how people are trusted, challenged, and supported as the business evolves. So what does it actually take to lead well in the eye care and dental marketing space right now?

For Wade Horb, the answer starts with trust and listening. Drawing from his experience as a leader deeply embedded in both industries, Wade believes that real innovation happens when leaders give capable people room to think big without overwhelming them. He compares strong leadership to balanced delegation, offering autonomy while staying close enough to provide support, a mindset that creates growth not just for teams, but for the entire organization.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Wade Horb, President of Marketing4ECPs and SmileShop Dental Marketing, to discuss leadership and innovation in the eye care and dental marketing space. They explore how trust and delegation shape strong teams, why purpose-driven industries foster collaboration, and how learning from peers fuels long-term growth. Wade also shares advice on hiring people smarter than you and the power of simply listening as a leader.

In this episode…

Too many practices are busy every day but still feel unsure about what’s actually driving their growth. Numbers are everywhere, dashboards are full, and yet decisions often come down to gut instinct instead of clarity. So how do you turn raw data into real momentum, and who keeps you accountable when things drift?

For Meagan Staab, the answer starts with looking at the right data, at the right level, on a consistent basis. Drawing from her experience as a data and analytics leader, she believes KPIs only matter when they’re simple enough to understand and broad enough to tell a full story. Rather than chasing dozens of disconnected metrics, she emphasizes reviewing a small, focused set that shows how different parts of the practice work together. She points out that one strong number can look impressive on its own, but patterns only emerge when you step back and view the entire picture. That’s where accountability comes in, creating the habit of reviewing, adjusting, and acting before small issues turn into bigger ones. When practices commit to that rhythm, data stops feeling overwhelming and starts becoming a tool for confident decision-making.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Meagan Staab, Director of Client Support and Insights at Cleinman Performance Partners, to discuss the importance of tracking data, using KPIs, and building accountability into your practice. They break down how to choose meaningful KPIs, compare results to the right benchmarks, and use regular reviews and peer accountability to drive measurable growth.

In this episode…

Sometimes the biggest opportunities to grow a practice are hiding in plain sight. Many clinicians focus on clinical care and assume the optical side will take care of itself, yet so much revenue slips away simply because patients don’t know what to choose or who to trust. What if the path to better outcomes and stronger financial health started with one simple shift in the exam room?

According to Michelle Kelley, a seasoned expert who teaches future opticians and manages one of the busiest optical environments in the country, the answer is clear. She believes that when doctors guide patients toward the right eyewear solutions before they ever reach the optical, it changes everything. Michelle explains that patients genuinely want direction. They feel more confident when the recommendation comes from the clinician they trust most. When that handoff is intentional and supportive, practices see higher satisfaction, smoother operations, and far better optical performance. In her view, doctor-driven dispensing isn’t a sales tactic; it is a continuity-of-care strategy that elevates the entire patient experience.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Michelle Kelley, Director of Ophthalmic Materials and Services at the Southern College of Optometry, to discuss the power of doctor-driven dispensing. They explore how a doctor’s recommendation influences patient decisions, why a structured handoff boosts optical revenue, and what practices can do to make the process feel natural rather than salesy.

In this episode…

Some practices make patient loyalty look effortless, while others struggle to keep people coming back. What separates the two often isn’t skill or service, but the invisible moments between visits where convenience can make or break trust. In a world where patients expect everything to be simple and fast, how can clinics remove the friction that pushes people toward online giants instead?

The answer, according to Dylan Cunningham, lies in making the patient journey feel as natural as the way we shop for everything else. As a growth strategist with deep experience in both marketing and optical pursuits, he believes people genuinely want to support their local eye care provider — they just won’t fight through barriers to do it. Dylan explains how reducing steps, eliminating outdated processes, and meeting patients where they already are can dramatically shift buying behavior. He points to small but meaningful moments, like replacing paper rebates with instant digital links or making reorders possible in two taps, as examples of convenience that strengthens loyalty. When practices think like consumers instead of operators, he says, they unlock a level of trust and retention that online competitors can’t match.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Dylan Cunningham, Head of Growth at Otto, to discuss how online presence and automations improve patient loyalty and sales. They explore the friction points that quietly drive patients away, the automations that save time while building trust, and why convenience is now the biggest driver in patient buying behavior. Dylan also gives advice on how practices can stay relevant in an increasingly digital world.

In this episode…

Every optical board tells a story, but not every story leads to growth. Some practices unknowingly let thousands of dollars sit frozen on their shelves, while others thrive by treating every frame like an active investment. What if managing your board felt less like guesswork and more like a reliable strategy for financial health and patient satisfaction?

According to Michelle Kelley, a seasoned expert in optical operations and training, the answer starts with seeing your board for what it truly is: money on display. For Michelle, the key lies in understanding not just how many frames you carry, but why those frames deserve a place on your board. Instead of buying blindly or filling space with whatever looks appealing, she walks through a data-driven approach that ties inventory to actual patient behavior. Michelle explains how the right mix of vendors, assigned board spaces, and consistent turn rates can transform a chaotic board into a predictable revenue engine. 

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Michelle Kelley, Director of Ophthalmic Materials and Services at the Southern College of Optometry, to discuss how to build a smarter, more profitable approach to board management. You’ll hear how to calculate the ideal number of frames for your practice, why assigning board space to vendors keeps your spending in check, and how to choose styles that actually reflect your patient base.

In this episode…

Sometimes a business outgrows the story it’s been telling. The visuals feel dated, the message drifts, or the brand no longer reflects the experience customers actually have. But how do you know when it’s time for a refresh, and how does a thoughtful rebrand really begin?

According to Kehna Kelly, a seasoned creative strategist, it starts with a clear and honest answer to why. Drawing from her experience leading branding work across many practices, she explains that every successful rebrand begins long before choosing colors or sketching logos. It starts with asking what’s working, what isn’t, and what people truly feel when they interact with the business. For her, the deeper purpose behind the brand becomes the foundation that makes every creative decision more intentional and impactful.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Kehna Kelly, Team Lead of Creative Services at POD Marketing, to discuss how a strategy-first approach transforms a rebrand. They break down how to uncover the real “why” behind brand challenges, how to build a brand world that guides design and voice, and how to recognize the signals that it’s time for a brand evolution. Kehna also gives advice on bringing brand experience to life through meaningful touchpoints.

In this episode…

Most business owners know they should be doing something about SEO, but what does that actually mean in practice? Is it about keywords, website speed, or just showing up on Google’s front page? For many optometrists, it’s a confusing blend of tech jargon and shifting algorithms that feels hard to pin down. So what really matters when it comes to search engine optimization?

According to Claire Laurie, a data-driven strategist and SEO expert, success begins with clarity and consistency. She explains that SEO isn’t about quick wins — it’s about building authority over time through well-structured content, accurate listings, and a seamless user experience. Claire compares it to maintaining a digital storefront: if your website is buried on the third page of Google, it’s like having a beautiful shop hidden deep in the woods. Her advice is simple but powerful — optimize your pages for each service, claim your Google Business Profile, and make sure your site works beautifully on mobile. When you treat SEO as an investment instead of an expense, the payoff is visibility, credibility, and real-world patient growth.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson is joined by Claire Laurie, Team Lead of SEO at Marketing4ECPs, to discuss how optometrists can strengthen their online presence through smart, sustainable SEO practices. They talk about why SEO is a long-term strategy, how to balance on-page and off-page optimization, and what makes a website truly user-friendly. Claire also shares advice on when to bring in an SEO expert and how to know if your efforts are actually working.

Megan McCarthy, Senior Director of Practice Transitions at Cleinman Performance Partners, leads a team that delivers custom consulting, financial analysis, and practice valuation services, guiding clients through every stage of the transitions journey.

In this episode…

Navigating the end of an optometry career can feel as complex as building it. For many practice owners, years of patient care and business growth come down to one defining moment: how to transition out successfully. What does it really take to plan an exit that preserves value, protects your legacy, and supports the kind of life you want next?

According to Al Cleinman, a strategist and leader in the optometry business space, the key is clarity — knowing what you truly want out of life and your practice long before you’re ready to leave. Megan McCarthy also highlights that early planning, ideally 3-5 years in advance, allows doctors to make smart financial and operational decisions that elevate the practice’s value. Together, they explain how foresight, documentation, and professional guidance turn what could be a stressful process into a rewarding next chapter for both the seller and successor.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Al Cleinman and Megan McCarthy of Cleinman Performance Partners to discuss how optometrists can prepare for successful transitions. They share why early exit planning matters, how to differentiate between a succession plan and a sale, and what pitfalls to avoid in the process. They also give advice on building long-term value through intentional goal setting and preparation.

In this episode…

In today’s healthcare world, patients are more informed than ever. However, that doesn’t always mean they truly understand their treatment options. How can doctors simplify complex science into clear, trustworthy advice that motivates patients to follow through on care plans instead of feeling “sold to”?

According to Dr. Kimberly Friedman, a seasoned optometrist and medical education expert, it all starts with communication rooted in trust and clarity. She explains that the same skills doctors use daily in the exam room — distilling medical science into relatable language — are the foundation of effective patient education. Dr. Friedman highlights that using analogies, prescribing with confidence, and taking a stepwise approach to recommendations all build stronger compliance. By focusing on understanding rather than sales, practitioners can elevate patient outcomes while strengthening long-term relationships built on credibility.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Dr. Kimberly Friedman, Vice President of Education and Scientific Affairs at PRN Vision Group, to discuss how to educate patients on treatment plans without overwhelming them. They talk about using analogies to simplify complex science, fostering trust through confident recommendations, and evolving with new research in ocular nutrition. Dr. Friedman also shares advice on balancing clinical integrity with practice growth.

In this episode…

Running a successful optometry practice means balancing patient care with all the realities of business ownership. But when it comes to protecting your livelihood, many practice owners don’t fully understand what’s covered (or not covered) by their insurance policies. From specialized equipment to business interruptions, what should optometrists really look for when insuring their practices?

According to Andrew Davis, a commercial insurance expert with extensive experience supporting healthcare professionals, the key is understanding how coverage actually works before disaster strikes. He highlights the importance of replacement cost over cash value policies, ensuring that damaged or stolen equipment can be replaced in full rather than at a depreciated rate. Andrew also explains how business interruption coverage can sustain income during closures and why comprehensive packages — including general liability, property, and cyber insurance — are essential.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Andrew Davis, Commercial Placement Broker and Account Manager at Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Alberta, to discuss how optometrists can protect their practices with the appropriate insurance. They explore the differences between replacement cost and cash value, the role of business interruption coverage, and why cyber insurance is becoming increasingly critical.

In this episode…

Marketing in optometry is evolving faster than ever, from traditional ads to digital platforms that meet patients where they are. With so many channels available, how can eye care practices know where to focus their time and budget for the best results?

According to Kate Virzi, a seasoned marketing leader with over 15 years of experience, the key is understanding that marketing is both a science and a story. She highlights the importance of creating authentic connections through digital tools like email and video while maintaining a consistent, trust-building online presence. Kate also stresses that success comes from patience, data-driven decisions, and aligning marketing with long-term business goals.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kevin Wilhelm and Kim Carson sit down with Kate Virzi, Director of Sales & Client Success at Marketing4ECPs, to discuss digital, traditional, and best practices for marketing in optometry. They explore how to optimize websites for conversion, where to invest marketing budgets, and why consistency between in-person and online experiences builds trust. Kate also shares how content, SEO, and social media can work together to attract and retain patients.

In this episode…

Dry eye disease is one of the most common yet misunderstood challenges in optometry. Patients often turn to at-home remedies without realizing the connection between those simple treatments and more advanced in-office procedures. How can practices turn everyday product use into a gateway for stronger patient relationships and sustainable growth?

According to Dennis Evans Jr., a leader in scaling innovative eye care solutions, at-home treatments do more than relieve symptoms — they create awareness and trust that leads patients back for higher-level procedures. He highlights how kiosks, affiliate programs, and easy access to over-the-counter products shift the conversation, allowing patients to bring up dry eye concerns before doctors do. This model transforms cold calls and patient skepticism into demand for advanced services.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Dennis Evans Jr., Director of Professional Relations at DryEye Rescue, to discuss how at-home treatments drive in-office growth in optometry. They explore why awareness starts outside the exam room, how flexible programs help practices scale, and what makes the dental care model a blueprint for optometry. Dennis also shares lessons from DryEye Rescue’s rapid nationwide growth.

In this episode…

Running a successful optometry practice takes more than attracting new patients. It requires building strong teams, creating effective systems, and overcoming daily business challenges. How can practice owners step beyond marketing to grow thriving, resilient organizations?

According to Kevin Wilhelm, a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing expert, true growth begins when owners focus on people and processes. He highlights that patient flow is rarely the biggest hurdle — recruiting, training, and retaining talented staff is. By investing in culture and peer learning, practices can overcome common obstacles and scale sustainably. Kevin explains how his own experience in marketing and leadership inspired him to help optometrists strengthen their operations and develop effective teams that drive long-term success.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kevin Wilhelm, CEO of Cleinman Performance Partners, is interviewed by Chad Franzen of Rise25 to discuss helping optometrists overcome business challenges and build strong teams. He shares how focusing on culture and HR practices transforms practices, why peer-to-peer learning drives growth, and how his acquisition of Cleinman expands services for independent optometrists. Kevin also talks about lessons learned from leading a fast-growing marketing agency.

In this episode…

Building loyalty in optometry means more than just offering quality eye exams. Practices must find ways to keep patients engaged between visits and make every interaction count. How can optical businesses create meaningful touchpoints that go beyond routine appointments?

According to Sarah Vinson, a seasoned small business leader with experience spanning banking, construction, and retail, the key is to merge innovative products with strategic social media use. She highlights how frequent releases of new ZENKA eyewear toppers naturally draw patients back into practices for style updates, creating regular face-to-face opportunities. This steady stream of engagement strengthens customer relationships and helps practices compete beyond price alone. Sarah underscores that when small businesses focus on authentic connections, they build lasting trust and community loyalty.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, Kim Carson sits down with Sarah Vinson, Owner and CEO of Lunette USA, to talk about creating face-to-face opportunities with patients through products and social media. They explore how frequent product launches can spark repeat visits, why purposeful social media drives stronger patient connections, and how authentic engagement builds loyalty. Sarah also shares advice on overcoming small business challenges and leveraging creativity without big advertising budgets.

In this episode…

Growth is the dream of every independent practice owner, but the path to achieving it is rarely straightforward. From navigating financial hurdles to managing teams and creating systems that actually work, the challenges can feel overwhelming. So how do thriving practices make the leap from surviving to sustainable growth?

According to Amanda Van Voris, a seasoned business consultant with over two decades of experience, growth begins with clarity around people, finance, and systems. She highlights that long-term success often comes from consistent planning, benchmarking, and being willing to pivot when unexpected challenges arise. The impact of this approach is evident in stories of practices that expanded from a single location to multiple thriving offices. Amanda emphasizes that true consulting is not about quick fixes but about behavior change, leadership development, and building confidence in owners. This is how practices not only grow but also evolve into resilient businesses that balance personal and professional goals.

In this episode of the Cleinman Connect Podcast, host Kim Carson sits down with Amanda Van Voris, Senior Director of Client Solutions at Cleinman Performance Partners, to discuss driving growth in independent practices. She explains how to use people, finance, and systems as the foundation for scale, why pivoting builds stronger leaders, and the role of future visioning in practice success. Amanda also shares a simple tip any owner can use tomorrow to elevate patient experience.

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