Dr. Jenny Drake shares her experience with Lacrifill, an innovative hyaluronic acid-based punctal filler, and how it fits seamlessly into her well-established dry eye protocols. From primary care to advanced treatments, we disucss: - How Jenny identifies dry eye patients - The importance of creating a systematic approach to treating dry eye, starting with comprehensive exams and early interventions - Integrating Lacrifill as a practical and patient-friendly option for dry eye management - The po...
Mar 15, 2025•47 min•Ep. 402
In this insightful episode, Aaron Werner and Dr. Masoud Nafey explore the role of technology and AI in transforming the field of optometry. They discuss the challenges of building the perfect EHR, the impact of AI on patient care, and how automation can free optometrists to focus on more meaningful interactions. From real-time data insights to the potential for AI-assisted refractions, this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of medical eye care, operational efficiencies, and the impor...
Mar 15, 2025•54 min•Ep. 401
"In this conversation, Chris and Jeff Krohn discuss various themes including business growth, the process of writing a book, personal tragedies, and the impact of cancer on their lives. Jeff shares his journey of writing his book 'Offer It Up', the emotional experience surrounding the tragic accident of his best friend's son, and how he coped with his own cancer diagnosis through faith and offering up his suffering. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, friendship, and the in...
Mar 10, 2025•45 min•Ep. 400
"In this episode of The Aaron Werner Podcast, Aaron sits down with Dr. Jennifer Planitz, a visionary optometrist and business leader, to discuss the keys to fostering a strong team culture, embracing change, and leveraging leadership principles to grow a successful practice. Jennifer shares how she integrates Stoic philosophy into her team’s daily routine, using Slack to create a leadership development channel that encourages engagement, personal growth, and team collaboration. She and Aaron div...
Mar 05, 2025•54 min•Ep. 399
"This conversation delves into the complexities of omega-3 supplements, focusing on quality assurance, the role of organizations like GOED, and the importance of EPA and DHA for health. The discussion highlights the challenges consumers face in navigating the supplement market, the risks of counterfeit products, and the clinical implications of omega-3 intake. Experts share insights on how to educate patients about the benefits of omega-3s and the significance of choosing the right sources, part...
Mar 03, 2025•59 min•Ep. 398
In this episode, Dr Aaron Werner and Dr. Ted McElroy dive into the power of building effective systems to drive positive results, both professionally and personally. They explore concepts like the importance of planning, how to create repeatable processes, and the impact of system design on outcomes. They discuss quotes from experts like W. Edwards Deming and John Acuff, and share real-life examples of how small changes in systems have led to big improvements in their practices and daily lives. ...
Feb 26, 2025•49 min•Ep. 397
This podcast episode discusses the impact of anti-glaucoma medications on ocular surface health, referencing the latest evidence-based guidelines from the American Optometric Association. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between glaucoma treatments and ocular surface disease, and the role of optometrists in managing these patients effectively. https://www.aoa.org/practice/clinical-guidelines/clinical-practice-guidelines?sso=y ---------------------- For our listeners...
Feb 24, 2025•17 min•Ep. 396
In this episode, Dr. Brianna Rhue, co-founder of Dr Contact Lens, offers a unique perspective on the vendor-practice owner relationship. She shares valuable insights on how practice owners can position themselves as “Sharks” in the competitive market and offers tips on recognizing the signs of a successful practice. Plus, we dive into her latest book, The Eye Pitch Book, and discuss the key takeaways for those in the eye care industry. If you’re attending Vision Expo East, don’t miss the chance ...
Feb 19, 2025•52 min•Ep. 395
Summary In this episode, Chris discusses the challenges of implementing a dry eye program within comprehensive care practices. He emphasizes the importance of viewing dry eye as a pillar of patient care rather than a specialty service. The conversation covers the significance of proper patient evaluation, the strategic application of various treatment options, and the need for practices to align their treatments with specific patient signs and symptoms. Chris encourages practitioners to rethink ...
Feb 17, 2025•25 min•Ep. 394
"In this episode, Aaron reflects on the power of focusing on the process rather than fixating on the outcome. He shares insights from a recent shooting course, illustrating how honing technique and discipline leads to better results—both on the range and in business. Aaron draws parallels between this lesson and the initiatives he and his team are implementing in their optometry practice in 2025. From refining workflows to improving patient care, he explores how a process-driven mindset fosters ...
Feb 13, 2025•20 min•Ep. 393
In this episode of the Chris Wolfe Podcast, Chris discusses the challenges of billing and coding in healthcare practices, particularly in optometry. He emphasizes the importance of understanding billing rules to provide optimal patient care without being hindered by insurance limitations. Chris advocates for clear communication with patients regarding their care and the necessity of follow-up visits for chronic disease management. He encourages practitioners to develop structured protocols for m...
Feb 10, 2025•19 min•Ep. 392
Drs Brianna Rhue, Kyle Klute and Aaron Werner are joined by Trevor Mower of TEEM to discuss 'The Obstacle is The Way' by Ryan Holiday. Ryan Holiday speaks on stoicism, a philosophy designed to make us more resilient, happier, more virtuous and more wise–and as a result, better people, better parents and better professionals. Hear our take aways, inisghts and how we have are applying the learnings from the book. Mark your calendars to join us for the next Book Nerds Live episode Wednesday Feb 26,...
Feb 01, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 391
In this episode, Chris discusses the revitalization of his optical practice, focusing on data-driven decisions, inventory management, and enhancing patient experience. He shares insights on the challenges faced, strategies implemented for clearance sales, and the importance of team communication. Chris expresses optimism for the future as they aim to better serve their patients and improve practice performance. ---------------------- For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off a...
Jan 27, 2025•35 min•Ep. 390
This morning during an F3 workout at 6am in a snowy downtown Denver, Aaron rolled his ankle. He reflects on the challenge and the importance of community, not only to help get him back tothe hotel but how this is a metaphore for our businesses and life. To hear more about F3, check out Chris Wolfe did a series on the mission and you can listen to the first episode HERE Join us for our first BOOK NERDS live book club podcast on Wednesday Jan 29 at 1pm CST. CLICK HERE to stay up to date on all thi...
Jan 25, 2025•11 min•Ep. 389
In this episode, Chris discusses the importance of defining specialization within optometry and emphasizes the value of comprehensive care. He critiques the current trends in optometry that lean towards specialization, arguing that it can detract from the primary care role that optometrists play. Through analysis of billing data and patient care practices, Chris illustrates how comprehensive optometry can effectively manage a wide range of patient needs. He advocates for a balanced approach that...
Jan 20, 2025•31 min•Ep. 388
"Cataract co-management has been a topic of debate and confusion amongst surgeons and optometrists alike recently. Dr Chris Wolfe shared his thoughts recently on his show and you can listen here Dr Julio Echegoyen of Gordon Schanzlin New Vision Institute and Dr Joe DeLoach of Practice Compliance Solution join to discuss their perspectives and insights on the important role co-management plays in the care of the patient and how to do so in a compliant manner. " ________________________ questions@...
Jan 18, 2025•55 min•Ep. 387
Summary In this episode of the Chris Wolfe Podcast, Chris discusses the critical role of chart auditing in healthcare, particularly in optometry. He emphasizes that chart auditing is not merely about compliance and billing but is fundamentally about enhancing patient care and ensuring that healthcare providers can document the complexity of care provided. The conversation covers the reasons for auditing, the preparation needed, the auditing process itself, and the long-term benefits of regular a...
Jan 13, 2025•20 min•Ep. 386
Tami Franklin has spent her career in multiple aspects of optometry. She started working in and then managing a private optometry practice in rural America, and now leads staff learning & development for Vision Source. Additionally she is a strong advocate of paraoptometric professional development with the American Optometric Assosication, and is passionate about giving back. Recently Tami volunterred with other paraoptometrics and ODs in Ashville, NC supporting the community affected by hu...
Jan 08, 2025•50 min•Ep. 385
In this conversation, Chris and Alex delve into the intricacies of managing an optical business within eye care practices. They explore the dual nature of opticals as both medical and retail entities, emphasizing the importance of understanding retail strategies to enhance patient experience and drive revenue. The discussion covers inventory management, merchandising techniques, and the significance of pre-selection in improving sales. Alex shares insights on optimizing frame displays and the ne...
Jan 08, 2025•57 min•Ep. 384
In this conversation, Chris and Eugene delve into the intricacies of patient acquisition in the eye care industry, focusing on the concept of allowable acquisition cost. Eugene shares insights on optimizing patient acquisition strategies, leveraging Google Ads and AI, and the importance of understanding patient metrics. They discuss the significance of reactivating past patients and the various marketing strategies that can be employed to drive practice growth. In this conversation, Eugene Schat...
Jan 06, 2025•48 min•Ep. 383
In this episode of the Chris Wolfe Podcast, Dr. Jim Stringham discusses the relationship between metabolic diseases and eye health, emphasizing the historical context of obesity, the role of environment versus genetics, and the importance of lifestyle changes in disease prevention. The conversation explores how inflammation from metabolic diseases can impact ocular health and the clinical implications for patient management. In this conversation, Chris and Jim Stringham delve into the significan...
Dec 30, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 382
Brianna Rhue, Kyle Klute and Aaron Werner dive into the life-changing principles of Atomic Habits by James Clear. We explore Tips to break bad habits, How to build routines that stick, and Real-life examples that have changed our daily lives personally and professionally. Mark your calendars to join us for the next Book Nerds Live episode Wednesday January 29, 2025. Trevor Mower from TEEM will join to discuss his favorite book 'The Obstacle is The Way' by Ryan Holiday ________________________ qu...
Dec 19, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 381
In this episode, Chris discusses the critical aspects of co-management in eye care, emphasizing the importance of optometrists as primary care providers. He addresses recent concerns regarding economic arguments against co-management, the role of CMS regulations, and the impact of audits on practice. Chris advocates for the necessity of co-management in ensuring patient care and continuity, while also providing best practices for navigating the complexities of co-management in the current health...
Dec 16, 2024•35 min•Ep. 380
In this conversation, Chris and Jennifer Stewart reflect on the first year of her new optometry practice, discussing the goals set, the innovative strategies implemented for patient flow, and the decision to eliminate the front desk. They explore how these changes have positively impacted patient experience and staff dynamics, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in optical sales and empowering staff to enhance patient interactions. In this conversation, Dr. Jennifer Stewart discusses the ...
Dec 09, 2024•56 min•Ep. 379
Book Nerds! A Book Club for Dr Entrepreneurs Brianna Rhue, Kyle Klute and Aaron explore` Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell, a book that dives into the darker side of tipping points as it relates to social epidemics, and how they can be manipulated for positive or negative. ________________________ questions@eyecode-education.com Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aa...
Dec 04, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 378
In this episode,Chris discusses the final step in building a comprehensive optometry practice, focusing on the importance of planning for failure, training staff, and tracking metrics to ensure successful integration of new protocols. He emphasizes the need for customization in practice and the significance of communication with both staff and patients. ---------------------- For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or...
Dec 02, 2024•18 min•Ep. 377
Drs Gina Wesley, Shane Kannarr and Chris Wolfe join for an unscripted conversation all about visual fields—the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the tools that make this an indispensable part of eye care. Did you know that utilization of visual fields in optometry, based on CMS billing data, is surprisingly low? We dive into the barriers that prevent optometrists from performing and billing for visual fields and share practical tools and strategies to overcome them. Whether you’re a seasoned VF...
Nov 28, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 376
In this episode, Chris discusses step four of Comprehensive Optometry Simplified, focusing on analyzing fees and billing in optometry practices. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the financial aspects of patient care to ensure that services provided are worthwhile for both the practice and the patients. By calculating revenue generation and patient care value, optometrists can make informed decisions about the services they offer, ultimately enhancing patient care and practice profit...
Nov 25, 2024•19 min•Ep. 375
Aaron has spoken multiple times about his practice's experience with the LifeMeter. On this episode, Drs Brenda DeForrest and Peter Santisi join to share their experiences with the technology, why they brought it into the practice and how it has affected the converastions they have with patients around nutrition, supplemnetation and ocular health. Dr Brenda DeForrest has been in private practice in Orlando FL since 1990 after graduating University of Florida and New England College of Optometry....
Nov 20, 2024•47 min•Ep. 374
In this conversation, Adam F. Cmejla discusses the importance of understanding one's value through client feedback, the role of optometrists in providing comprehensive care, and the impact of limiting beliefs on professional identity. He shares personal experiences and transformative practices that have helped him grow, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and proactive communication with clients. The discussion concludes with a teaser for a follow-up episode on the 2020 Money Podcast. -----...
Nov 18, 2024•22 min•Ep. 373
