EYE OWN A BUSINESS

In this episode, you’ll discover how small, steady changes can quietly transform a practice—and your future.

Dr. Mariah Smith didn’t make one big leap. Over the past decade, she built a thriving, six-times-more-profitable practice by making intentional improvements—one at a time.

No shortcuts. No flash. Just smart systems, better leadership, and the discipline to keep going.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to grow without burning out, this episode will show you what’s possible when you play the long game.

Because success isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it looks like quiet momentum that never stops.

 

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You didn’t become an optometrist to feel like a discount retailer. But somewhere along the way, insurance plans took over, patients started price-shopping, and the optical—once the heart of your business—started to feel like a race to the bottom. In this conversation, we step back and ask: What if the problem isn’t the patients? What if it’s how we’ve been taught to sell to them? We explore the emotional side of optical retail—from the silent frustration of presenting options you know are better, only to have patients walk, to the missed opportunities hiding in your pricing strategy, your frame boards, and even your staff conversations. Chris Millet from Modern Optical helps us unpack the psychology of choice, the power of perceived value, and how a few key changes in the patient journey can reignite not just your profits—but your passion for helping people see and look their best.

 

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In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo welcomes Dr. Juawana Hall to discuss the importance of understanding generational differences in patient care. They explore how different generations, from Boomers to Gen Z, have distinct expectations and behaviors regarding eye care. Dr. Hall shares her journey and the methods she uses to tailor communication and recommendations to various age groups. The discussion delves into the value of personality profiling, generational models, and the specific preferences and needs of each age group. They also discuss innovative approaches to contact lens recommendations and the importance of personalizing patient interactions to build loyalty and provide superior care.

 

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In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo chats with Dr. James Wood to discuss the underutilized potential of retinal imaging in eye care practices. They explore how retinal imaging, particularly widefield and ultra-widefield imaging, can significantly enhance patient education, boost compliance, and improve financial outcomes for practices. Dr. Wood shares practical tips for obtaining clearer images and strategies for increasing patient acceptance of screening procedures. The conversation also delves into the future of retinal imaging technology and its role in addressing the growing needs of an aging population.

 

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In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Dr. Steve Vargo sits down with Cindy Braden, Vice President of Sales at OneSpot, to uncover the hidden breakdowns in the billing process that are costing eye care practices serious money. From aging A/R to the risks of relying on a single biller, Cindy shares eye-opening insights on how to protect your revenue and streamline your billing systems—whether in-house or outsourced. You’ll also hear how technology, including AI, is reshaping revenue cycle management and giving practices powerful tools to stay ahead.

If you're tired of leaving money on the table, this episode is your blueprint for identifying billing gaps, improving collections, and gaining control of your financial health.

 

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In this episode, Dr. Vargo sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Roush, a practice owner from Northeast Indiana, to discuss the transformative impact of annual retreats on leadership, teamwork, and business growth. Dr. Roche explains the logistics, planning, and execution of successful annual retreats, sharing how they have become her staff's favorite day of the year. She delves into the themes, activities, and strategies that make these retreats effective, including team-building exercises, custom-tailored content, and the importance of fostering vulnerability and connection among staff. Dr. Roche also provides insights on maintaining the momentum of retreat learnings throughout the year for sustained improvements in practice operations and patient care.

 

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In this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo turns the focus to leadership, presenting the CLEAR Leadership Model. Dr. Vargo outlines a five-step framework designed to build trust, boost accountability, and foster engagement within an eyecare practice. The model, which stands for Coach with Curiosity, Lead by Listening, Equip with Skills, Align Around Purpose, and Reinforce through Recognition, aims to simplify effective leadership through intentional communication. Whether you're an office manager, team lead, or practice owner, this episode provides practical insights to improve team dynamics and drive better performance.

 

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In this episode, Steve interviews Dr. Garrett Whitmore, an OD who has successfully implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to manage his thriving, multi-location practice. Dr. Whitmore explains the six core components of EOS—vision, people, data, issues, processes, and traction—and how these practical tools help run a business efficiently. He shares his journey, from the initial struggle to get team buy-in to achieving significant growth and operational excellence. The conversation also dives into accountability, the importance of clear vision and communication, and the role of coaches in successfully adopting EOS. Dr. Whitmore offers valuable advice for other practice owners considering EOS, emphasizing the impact on both professional success and personal well-being.

 

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