In this episode of the Chris Wolfe Podcast, Dr. Fraser Horne discusses the intersection of visual performance, nutrition, and sports vision. He shares insights from his research on carotenoids and their impact on athletes' performance, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive care in optometry. Dr. Horne explains how visual performance can be enhanced through nutritional supplementation and practical applications in sports, while also addressing the challenges of integrating these concepts in...
Jun 30, 2025•59 min•Ep. 432
In this episode, Aaron sits down with Taylor Mendelson to explore the journey from ophthalmic technician to NCLE-certified contact lens expert and myopia management specialist. Taylor shares how certification transformed her career, boosted her confidence, and improved the patient experience in her practice. She breaks down what the NCLE is, why it matters, how to prepare, and the surprising ways it benefits both staff and doctors. Now with CooperVision, Taylor also reveals how she’s helping pra...
Jun 25, 2025•48 min•Ep. 431
"In this conversation, Dr. Kyle Klute takes over as host and engages with Dr. Bradley Grant in a detailed discussion about the use of Electroretinography (ERG) in optometry. They explore the implications of evidence-based medicine, the significance of surrogate endpoints, and the importance of effective patient communication. The dialogue also addresses concerns about over-treatment and patient anxiety, emphasizing the need for careful decision-making in clinical practice. They explore the balan...
Jun 23, 2025•50 min•Ep. 430
Dr. Kriti Bhagat joins the podcast to explore the intersection of optometry and her deep passion for reading. From launching a successful bookstagram during COVID to editing pre-release manuscripts for major publishers, Kriti shares how books help her decompress, connect with others, and become a better leader. We also dive into burnout, business ownership, favorite reads, and how fiction and nonfiction alike shape identity and creativity beyond the exam room. Follow Brew Reading: www.instagram....
Jun 19, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 429
In this episode of The Chris Wolfe Podcast, Dr. Brad Oatney and Dr. Chandler Mann share their insights from a recent tour of the Coopervision plant in Costa Rica. They discuss the intricate manufacturing processes of contact lenses, the importance of quality control, and the company's commitment to sustainability. The conversation highlights the pride of the workforce, the technological advancements in lens production, and the need for optometrists to educate patients about the complexities and ...
Jun 16, 2025•28 min•Ep. 428
Cost per doctor minute is a powerful metric that often gets overlooked in favor of broader terms like chair cost. In this episode, Scott Lewis and Alex Tadros join the conversation to break down what this number means, how to calculate it, and why it offers a clearer picture of practice efficiency and profitability. The discussion includes real-time math examples, practical insights, and strategies any practice owner can apply to optimize their operations. Connect with Scott Lewis: slewisod@gmai...
Jun 11, 2025•51 min•Ep. 427
In this conversation, Dr. Masoud Nafey shares his unique journey from being an optometrist to becoming a key player in the integration of technology and AI in healthcare. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in building clinics for major corporations, the evolution of electronic health records (EHR), and the potential of AI in transforming patient care. Dr. Nafey emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs in technology development and explores the complexities of AI, incl...
Jun 09, 2025•56 min•Ep. 426
In this unique episode, Dr. Aaron Warner flips the script and becomes the subject of the conversation with guest Sophie Thune, clinic manager at Good Life Eye Care and certified Working Genius facilitator. Together, they unpack Aaron’s Working Genius profile—his strengths in invention and discernment, and his challenges with enablement and galvanizing. Sophie breaks down the six types of genius, how they impact leadership, culture, and burnout, and why understanding your team’s wiring is crucial...
Jun 04, 2025•55 min•Ep. 425
In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Chinn discusses her experiences with public speaking, the role of influencers in healthcare communication, and the evolution of patient education techniques. She emphasizes the importance of using analogies to make complex medical concepts more relatable to patients. Dr. Chin also shares insights on finding purpose in routine practice, the impact of mission trips on her perspective, and the balance between clinical practice and social media engagement. The disc...
Jun 02, 2025•40 min•Ep. 424
"In this episode of Book Nerds, Kyle, Brianna, and Aaron dive deep into Essentialism by Greg McKeown. They discuss the importance of living by design, not default, and share how the book’s principles—exploring, eliminating, and executing—have helped them declutter their lives and practices. From cutting unnecessary commitments to creating buffers and building courage, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for doctor-entrepreneurs seeking clarity and focus. They also discuss the po...
May 30, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 423
Dr. David Kading shares his insights on blending primary care with subspecialties in optometry, building community through referrals, and embracing AI as a tool for innovation. From Mug Mondays to Myopia Management, Dave’s journey highlights the importance of leaning into your interests while keeping patient care at the heart of the practice. Connect with Dave: LinkedIN: @davekading Facebook: @kadingconsulting Instagram: @davekading The Myopia Podcast: https://themyopiapodcast.buzzsprout.com/ Op...
May 29, 2025•59 min•Ep. 422
"In this episode, Aaron sits down with Bryan and Bradford Manning, co-founders of Two Blind Brothers, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation recorded live at the 2025 Vision Source Exchange in Denver, CO. The brothers share their journey of building a purpose-driven brand rooted in empathy, innovation, and the mission to cure blindness. We talk about the launch of the 2BB eyewear collection in collaboration with L’Amy America, designed to “feel the difference” through quality, comfort, and a ...
May 23, 2025•14 min•Ep. 421
www.integratedpwm.com -------------------- For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at che...
May 19, 2025•37 min•Ep. 420
In this episode of Book Nerds: A Book Club for Doctor Entrepreneurs, Drs. Kyle Klute, Brianna Rhue, and Aaron Werner unpack Jim Collins’ Beyond Entrepreneurship 2.0. From taking “irreversible leaps” to confronting comfort and indecision, they reflect on what it really takes to build an enduring, values-driven business. The discussion explores leadership identity, culture, decision-making frameworks like the RICE method, and why great strategy is often stunningly simple. Whether you’re leading a ...
May 16, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 419
In this episode, Chris discusses the complexities of managing comprehensive care in optometry, particularly for patients with multiple conditions. He emphasizes the challenges of relying on optical sales to sustain practice revenue and advocates for a shift towards more focused, problem-specific visits to improve patient care and practice sustainability. Check it out the Comprehensive Optometry Simplified course here: https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.practiceperformancepa...
May 12, 2025•15 min•Ep. 418
Rachel Crawford is an award-winning Encinitas-based interior designer known for blending modern-contemporary and eclectic aesthetics with holistic, energy-driven practices. Certified in Feng Shui, Energetic Space Clearing, and a Reiki Master, Rachel creates harmonious spaces across residential, hospitality, and retail environments. She is also the host of the Hospitality Interior Design Podcast, where she explores the intersection of design, energy, and conscious living, and The Holistic Interio...
May 07, 2025•45 min•Ep. 417
"On this episode of the Aaron Werner Podcast on EyeCode Media, Aaron talks with Sarah Jardine, CEO of epipole and maker of the ultra-portable epiCam®. Sarah shares how simple ideas—like wheels on workstations and Kaizen Time—helped her 10× production at Optos without adding space. They dive into flow, leadership, and lessons from factories, fast food, and Disney that eye care practices can steal today. Together, Aaron and Sarah dive into simple but transformative strategies for improving flow, e...
May 02, 2025•47 min•Ep. 416
This conversation explores the integration of ERG technology in eye care practices, the role of telehealth in providing comprehensive care, and the challenges faced by practitioners in remote locations. The discussion highlights the importance of data-driven decisions in implementing new technologies and the need for innovative business models to ensure quality patient care. The speakers share insights on their experiences with ERG technology, telehealth, and the evolving landscape of ocular dis...
Apr 28, 2025•57 min•Ep. 415
In this thought-provoking clinical roundtable, Dr. Chris Wolfe is joined by Dr. Shane Kannarr and Dr. Aaron Werner to unpack the real-world implications of Lacrifill, a novel hyaluronic acid-based punctal occlusion device that’s changing the conversation around dry eye management. What starts as a lighthearted discussion about plumbing and practice life quickly turns into a deep dive into how Lacrifill may reshape our protocols, especially in a landscape where traditional plugs have fallen out o...
Apr 22, 2025•49 min•Ep. 414
"This month on Book Nerds, your favorite doctor-entrepreneurs—Dr. Kyle Klute, Dr. Brianna Rhue, and Dr. Aaron Werner—are joined by Daniel Palmer, certified StoryBrand guide and marketing strategist, to dive deep into Donald Miller’s StoryBrand 2.0. What happens when doctors stop trying to be the hero and instead become the guide? The answer might just transform your entire practice. In This Episode: • What it really means to make your patient the hero • The seven parts of the StoryBrand framewor...
Apr 16, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 413
In this episode, Chris sets the stage for an upcoming panel discussion at the Vision Source Exchange, focusing on maximizing the potential within existing patient bases. He encourages listeners to reflect on their practices, particularly regarding contact lens fitting metrics, patient engagement, and loyalty. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding patient needs, addressing barriers to contact lens fitting, and fostering family engagement in eye care. Chris highlights the sig...
Apr 14, 2025•13 min•Ep. 412
"In this enlightening mini-episode, Aaron catches up with Professor John Nolan, a global leader in ocular nutrition research, for a compelling conversation on John's ""Vision For Vision"" philosopathy that spans the full human lifecycle—from early fetal development to peak athletic performance and aging brain health. Prof. Nolan shares a powerful perspective on the vital role of carotenoids and omega-3s in supporting not just vision, but cognitive development, maternal health, and long-term neur...
Apr 10, 2025•35 min•Ep. 411
"In this episode of the Aaron Werner Podcast on iCode Media, Aaron sits down with the dynamic and multifaceted Mikki Collins—a former surgical tech turned optical fashionista, ABO speaker, and industry insider. From the OR to the runway, Mikki shares her unique journey and dives into the evolving intersection of optical retail, fashion, patient experience, and practice growth. What You’ll Learn: • Mikki’s journey from ophthalmology surgical tech to optical fashion leader • Why opticians should k...
Apr 09, 2025•57 min•Ep. 410
In this episode, Chris discusses the significance of scripting in patient communication and the evolving narrative of the doctor-patient relationship. He reflects on a media training session that highlighted the outdated view of patients as villains and emphasizes the need for authenticity in healthcare interactions. Chris contrasts old media practices with new media expectations, advocating for genuine conversations that prioritize patient needs and experiences. He encourages healthcare profess...
Apr 07, 2025•18 min•Ep. 409
In this episode of the Aaron Werner Podcast, Dr. Aaron Werner is joined by Dr. Carl Urbanski and Dr. Andy Morgenstern—two key leaders behind the AOA’s Evidence-Based Optometry Committee. Together, they pull back the curtain on the Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) that shape how optometrists diagnose and manage disease. What You’ll Learn: • What the AOA Clinical Practice Guidelines really are—and why they matter • The 14-step, evidence-first process behind each guideline • How to use CPGs in r...
Apr 02, 2025•56 min•Ep. 408
In this episode of the Chris Wolfe Podcast, the discussion centers around the significant gap between beliefs and actual practices in optometry, particularly in managing dry eye disease. Chris Wolfe emphasizes the importance of structured evaluations and the integration of technologies like IPL to improve patient care. Through data from a workshop with vision source doctors, he highlights the need for practices to align their actions with their beliefs to enhance treatment outcomes and patient s...
Mar 31, 2025•13 min•Ep. 407
In this solo episode, Dr. Aaron Werner reflects on a powerful conversation between Dr. Chris Wolfe and Dr. Amanda Legge about at-home AMD monitoring with the ForeseeHome device. He shares a personal story about a missed opportunity in managing a patient’s dry AMD, and how that shaped his view on care and responsibility. Key topics include: - The shift from being the hero to becoming the guide in patient care - Why ForeseeHome’s use of Vernier (hyper)acuity is a game-changer - The importance of b...
Mar 29, 2025•20 min•Ep. 406
"In this episode, Dr. Aaron Werner sits down with Dr. Eric Baas, co-founder of iCare Advisors, to discuss the realities of cold starting an optometric practice. They explore: - Why education, not persuasion, is key for new ODs - Common pitfalls—and how to avoid them - The importance of team, process, and community - How every cold start can look different based on goals and market If you’re thinking about starting a practice—or just want to be inspired by smart strategy and passion for private p...
Mar 28, 2025•58 min•Ep. 405
In this episode, Dr. Amanda Legge and Barbara Benedict, VP of Strategy & Operations at Notal Vision, join Chris to explore the integration of remote patient monitoring technology in managing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). They discuss the evolution of monitoring tools like ForeseeHome AMD Monitoring Program and their impact on early detection and proactive AMD management. The conversation delves into key aspects of remote monitoring, including patient education, training, financial ...
Mar 24, 2025•56 min•Ep. 404
Dr. Aaron Werner is joined by Dr. Audrey Raley and Trevor Mower to explore the power of virtual team members in optometric practices. They discuss: - How virtual scribes reduce charting time - The key to successfully onboarding remote staff - Tasks virtual assistants can handle to improve efficiency - Real-life success stories from practices using virtual team members Click HERE to learn more about working with virtual team members from TEEM Dr Audrey Raley info: Linked In - https://www.linkedin...
Mar 19, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 403
