Asking staff answer the phone with a script is a mistake. No matter how skilled, they will sound like they’re reading from a document instead of delivering personal information.
Instead, staff who take phone calls should know the practice intimately enough to respond to any calls.
Find out how to train your staff to answer the phone like a human, not a robot.
Date: Wednesday, April 10, 2019...
It might seem elementary, but being able to communicate effectively to your patients may be the most important factor in building a practice. Communication skills can have a major influence on the success of a practice.
What 3-minute free technique can increase eyeglass sales by 32% and contact lens patients by 20%?
A contact lens trial!
Find out how and why this works on this week's show.
You bought a practice. Now what?
Tune into this week's Power Hour to find out what changes to make (and not make) and how to transition doctors.
Considering buying a practice?
Tune in to this week's Power Hour to know how to avoid buying the wrong practice.
Do you know what in the negotiations process should immediately raise a red flag? Get the insight you need to avoid making a mistake.
If you have considered implementing discounts or incentives for your patients, think twice.
They usually aren't successful due to the impact they have on the bottom line and the question of whether a professional service benefits from such incentives in the first place.
Date: Wednesday, February 20, 2019...
Looking to attract a different kind of patient? Wanting to expand into boutique-or budget-services? Or even need to change patients' perception of your practice? Listen to this week's show to learn 8 ways to change your patient base.
Having a hard time saying no to employees? Should you maintain a proper distance or be ‘one of the guys?’ Effective management skills often impacts on the bottom line. Find out how to be a better boss on this episode of the Power Hour.
If a staffer is out, do other staffers pitch in? Or do they say, "That's not my job?" Every person in the office needs to do whatever it takes to keep all the balls in the air--and that means understanding the job BEFORE they have to do it. This week, learn 5 reasons to cross-train your staff.
Jan 23, 2019 - Do you ever think about the person accompanying your patient to the office? Make a good impression, and you might get a new patient! Patient escort are spending time in your reception area. You should be working to wow them just like you wow your patients. This week, learn 9 ways to make your patient's escort happy.
Jan 16, 2019 - If you're planning advertising for the year, be sure you answer these 8 questions first. As with most things in life, much lies in the details and the preparation. Advertising is no different. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour to find out more.
Jan 09, 2019 - Why did your practice miss the mark in 2018? This week, look back on what didn't work and why, then figure out how to fix it for 2019. Remember, hope is not a strategy. As consultants, we've seen many goals that haven't been reached. Gary discusses the top 5 reasons goals aren't attained, so when you plan for 2019, you may a better shot at attaining your new goals. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour to learn from 2018's failed goals.
Dec 19, 2018 - On the last Power Hour of the year, Dr. Art Epstein weighs in on the challenging future of optometry.
Dec 12, 2018 - With the end of the year approaching, many of doctors buy that opto-toy they've always wanted. Unfortunately, this time next year - many of them regret their purchase. Learn ways to avoid buyers remorse as well as a unique way to nearly ensure new equipment is right for your practice and will be profitable.
Dec 19, 2018 - On the last Power Hour of the year, Dr. Art Epstein weighs in on the challenging future of optometry.
Dec 05, 2018 - Ever consider holding a staff meeting off-site? There are good reasons why should. Learn why and tips for executing a good meeting on this week's Power Hour.
Nov 28, 2018 - How can you and your staff devise genuinely novel solutions to chronic management problems?
Nov 21, 2018 - It's that time of year again! Do you have a plan for employee bonuses? Do you give them? Should you give them? What about Christmas/holiday gifts? And let's throw sales spiffs in the mix, too.
Nov 14, 2018 - With just 6 weeks to go until 2019, what can you do to end the year strong?
Oct 31, 2018 - Interested in integrating scleral contact lenses into your practice? Find out how to jump start your scleral lens fitting on this episode.
Oct 24, 2018 - What happens when two ODs marry? And what if they work together? Or what about an OD and an office manager or optician? Being part of a double OD couple presents its own set of opportunities and challenges. Find out how to navigate them on this week's Power Hour.
Oct 17, 2018 - If you're thinking about opening your own practice, this next episode is one you don't want to miss.
Oct 10, 2018 - Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, president and CEO of New England College of Optometry, joins the show to talk optometric education. Are there too many schools? Is student debt too high? Is today's education still relevant to reality?
Oct 03, 2018 - Ever consider corporate optometry? Dr. Maria Sampalis, founder of Corporate Optometry Facebook group and website , joins the show this week to provide an insider's view.
Sep 19, 2018 - If you had to do it all over again...would you choose optometry? While you can't turn the clock back, you do have control over your practice's destiny. Tune in to this week's show to find out how to redo those things you'd do over.
Sep 12, 2018 - The cash-paying model in optometry is alive and well. Is it in your office? Andy Corley joins the show to explain why. Andy is a 40-year veteran of the eye care industry from a start at Allergan to a move to AMO, then co-founding Chiron Vision and eyeonics. He is currently chairman of the board of RX Sight, Equinox, and eyeBrain Medical/Neurolens.
Sep 05, 2018 - Looking for an associate or partner for your practice? On this episode, Gary offers tips on how to hire an associate and what to look for in a potential partner.
Aug 29, 2018 - This week, Gary offers up the 5 best hiring and firing tips. Be sure you are bringing on and moving on staff in ways that help your practice.
Aug 22, 2018 - Want to learn how to trim costs? Listen to this episode of the Power Hour.
Aug 15, 2018 - It's that time of year again...back to school. If you haven't already ramped up your marketing, this week's show will offer tips on making eye exams part of the back-to-school routine. Don't forget contact lenses, sports goggles, and more! Kick-start the back-to-school season with the Power Hour!
Aug 08, 2018 - Although ODs have different practices, their concerns are similar. This week, find out the top 5 questions ODs have for practice management consultants.
Aug 01, 2018 - Considering buying a practice? Do you know where the pitfalls lie? Caveat emptor or buyer beware. Learn what to watch for when buying a new practice. Find out now what you need to know before making an offer.
Jun 27, 2018 - Ever wonder if Staffer A might be better at Job B? You might be right. This week, Dr. Laurie Sorrenson gives the scoop on profiling staff personalities and putting them in the best roles.
Jul 25, 2018 - Do you know what 4 things every practice owner must do to sell a practice? All practice owners need this information...regardless of when you plan to sell. Find out now what you need to know to sell your practice.
Jul 18, 2018 - Want new ways to market your practice? Of course you do! Tune into the show this week to source ideas from optometry's out-of-the-box marketer Warren Modlin who hails from legacy CIBAVision and Oakley.
Jul 11, 2018 - Want to look into optometry's future? Bart Foster, managing director at Sanitas Advisors, outlines what is inevitable in eyecare in the next five years.
Jun 13, 2018 - Travis Rush, founder and CEO of Sightbox , talks about entrepreneurship, online contact lens retailing, and how things have changed (or not) now that Sightbox is part of Johnson & Johnson Vision Care.
Jun 06, 2018 - We're close to the midway point of the year. It's a great time to refresh your thinking. Gary outlines his favorite business books for your practice on this episode of the Power Hour.
May 30, 2018 - How do long patient wait times affect your practice? Find out how...and what you can do about it...on this week's Power Hour.
May 23, 2018 - Building on the previous show about staff meetings, this week Gary motivates you to figure out what motivates your staff--and what doesn't.
May 02, 2018 - Your staff feeling blah? Your staff meetings not generating excitement? This week, Gary helps you learn strategies to energize your staff meetings and engage your staff.
Apr 25, 2018 - Learn all about trunk shows! Find out why "trunk show" is a bad name, and discover how to have a great one in your own office.
Apr 18, 2018 - Step right up this week for an update on myopia from Dr. Thomas Aller.
Apr 04, 2018 - It's April...time to close the books on Q1. Look back at your Q1 data to better forecast 2018 and plan your year. Tune in to Power Hour this week to hear Gary's suggestions for a Q2 reboot.
Mar 28, 2018 - Contact lenses, the FTC, and optometry...what do you need to know? The deadline to weigh in is fast approaching. Get the scoop so you can make your voice heard. Find out more on this week's episode of the Power Hour.
Mar 21, 2018 - Vision Expo was last week. As always, it was a great meeting with lots of classes & a lot going on. This week on Power Hour, we'll discuss some great things we learned at the meeting. Call in with what you brought home! Let's talk about it on this episode of the Power Hour.
Mar 07, 2018 - Filmmaker Jane Weiner has turned to myopia for inspiration. She talks with Gary this week about her latest film. Losing Sight, her documentary on myopia, looks at how technology advances are put into practice. The story explores visual development throughout life and what factors trigger myopia. Losing Sight is planned for a theatrical and TV release. Watch the trailer here: https://vimeo.com/jpweiner/myopia7mnsample.
Feb 28, 2018 - Vision by Design, THE country’s premier myopia meeting of the year is coming up fast. Joining the show from VBD will be Drs. Cary Herzberg and Tom Weshefsky to talk about what’s new at this years’ meeting and why you should attend!
Feb 21, 2018 - Join Jeffry Gerson, OD, FAAO on this week's show as he gets us up to the second on what's new in ARMD diagnosis, management and treatment. Also joining the show will be Greg Jackson, PhD from Maculogix to discuss research around the link of dark adaptation and ARMD. www.maculogix.com/powerhour
Feb 14, 2018 - It's Valentine's Day! Let's talk about what you love...to hate about optometry! Gary discusses the top 5 things you love to hate about the profession and how to turn your thinking around to opportunity. Find out more on this episode of the Power Hour.
Feb 07, 2018 - With industry trends leading more doctors to provide specialty care (dry eyes, glaucoma, vision therapy, low vision, TBI care, specialty contact lenses etc), communicating with other professionals is a significant opportunity for practice growth. Unfortunately, optometry has long been the "outcast" in the medical community making it difficult to break through to this group of doctors. On this episode of The Power Hour, Gary discusses how to configure your specialty practice from the ground up to ensure this large source of prospective patients is accessible to your practice.
Jan 31, 2018 - Why did you become an OD? Are you achieving your “why?” Gary discusses his own personal journey on the road to his “why” and talks about how you can use the same technique to have your practice work for you instead of you becoming a slave to your practice.
Jan 24, 2018 - Yes, at one time or another, uncollected fees, or accounts receivables that languish over time, are the same as working for free. On this episode we discuss ways to avoid this from happening and talk about how to “mop up” any existing receivables. You did the work, so how about getting paid for it?
Jan 17, 2018 - Time? Money? Cell phones, cars and TV’s aren’t the only thing changing at warp speed. The technology we use in our practices is doing the same thing at the same speed. How can you afford to keep up when the least expensive piece of equipment you might buy can be same price as a nice car! On this episode of the Power Hour Gary gets directly to the point and offers up suggestions and strategies to help with this tech dilemma.
Jan 16, 2019 - If you're planning advertising for the year, be sure you answer these 8 questions first. As with most things in life, much lies in the details and the preparation. Advertising is no different. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour to find out more.
Jan 10, 2018 - Can you succeed by seeing patients only 3 days a week? Dr. Nicholas Despotidis not only says yes, he discusses how he cut patient days from 6 to 3 days a week...25 years ago! If you want to earn more money and have time to enjoy it, working harder or longer hours is not the answer, says Dr. Nicholas Despotidis. Working smarter, begins with working with a good coach.
Jan 09, 2019 - Why did your practice miss the mark in 2018? This week, look back on what didn't work and why, then figure out how to fix it for 2019. Remember, hope is not a strategy. As consultants, we've seen many goals that haven't been reached. Gary discusses the top 5 reasons goals aren't attained, so when you plan for 2019, you may a better shot at attaining your new goals. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour to learn from 2018's failed goals.
Jan 03, 2018 - This time of the year, we all have the best intentions of improving our practices and personal lives. Yet somehow, no matter how hard we try, our best intentions get side tracked and derailed. Listen to this first episode of 2018 where Gary shares his consulting teams' strategies for setting goals and actually getting them done. Remember - SAYING you want to increase your practice revenues, cut expenses, see more (or less!) patients or for that matter lose weight is one thing. DOING any of those things is another! This episode will get your year jump started and show you how to keep the momentum you establish going throughout the course of the year!
Dec 20, 2017 - On this last show of 2017, and as the Power Hour closes in on half a million downloads, Gary recaps 2017’s most listened to shows along with his own top five favorites!
Dec 13, 2017 - With all the rapid changes going on in optometry, is a residency still necessary? 2015 graduate Dr. Kevin Cornwell joins the show talking about his experiences and viewpoints on the benefits of a residency as well as his thoughts about OD’s practicing in the prison system. Tune in for this very interesting perspective on this episode of the Power Hour!
Dec 06, 2017 - Try as we may, things still occasionally go awry in a practice. What you do after that happens can be the difference between losing a patient, their family and all their friends – or making them lifetime practice cheerleaders. Learn Gary’s view on service recovery in your practice and what you should do when things don’t quite go as planned.
Nov 29, 2017 - What is often talked about, easy to calculate and rarely used? That would be "chair costs." This week, Gary discusses exactly what the terminology means, how to calculate yours and what to do with the numbers you get. If you want to learn what GOPPAR and RevPAR mean, and how they affect your practice, and what they've got to do with chair costs - you'll want to tune in to this episode!
Nov 15, 2017 - Enchroma’s web site says their glasses, “ . . . open up a world of color for people with color blindness. Our products provide vibrant, accurate color . . .” Seems straightforward enough, until you discuss the lenses with doctors. On one side are doctors who say, “Patients report they see better, and that’s what matters” and on the other, “If they can’t see any extra Ishihara plates, what’s the point?” Listen to this episode of the Power Hour when Enchroma supporters, optician Barry Santini and Dr. Justin Bazan explain why they prescribe the lenses – and listen to callers and others who explain why they don’t. Then, you decide if Enchroma is right for your practice!
Nov 08, 2017 - “My staff just doesn’t get it! It’s hopeless and training doesn’t work!” Sound familiar? It certainly does to us! On this episode of the Power Hour, Gary digs into why so many practice owners say that so often – and what you should do about it! There is hope – but you’ll only get the advice you need if you tune in!
Nov 01, 2017 - In what will probably be the shortest episode ever, Gary reveals the atomic powered tool the every entrepreneur has, and never uses. It’s one of those “I can’t believe it was this obvious and staring me in the face all the time” things that you WILL be able to use right after the show. Short, to the point and powerful – on this episode of the Power Hour!
Oct 25, 2017 - How are frames designed? Get the inside scoop behind the design process of the John Varvatos Eyewear Collection. The company's creative director Nico Roseillier joins the show to discuss how this cool process takes place.
Oct 18, 2017 - Listen to this episode for an entertaining discussion with Gary and Brian as they talk about the difference between UK and US optometry. Opticians scope of care, OD education, UK practitioners emphasis on glasses and being ahead of the curve in contact lenses are discussed along with differences health insurance systems and the state of the industry. Brian also talks about his important work with the BCLA, his fun presentation style and . . . shoes (listen for details!)
Oct 11, 2017 - Managed vision care, telemedicine, online shopping for eyeglasses or contact lenses... are these things that will hurt or help your practice? The answers and discussion may surprise you when you listen to this episode of the Power Hour!
Oct 04, 2017 - Private Equity is getting more and more involved in optometry. What is private equity, why are they so interested in eyecare, and is private equity something you should look at for your own practice? Jeff Fronterhouse and Bret Davis, two experts in private equity, join Gary on this episode of the Power Hour!
Sep 27, 2017 - During a staff training session you tell your optician, “When you sell AR lenses, say X.” We’ve all tried training our staff this way, and whether “X” is effective or not, invariably we have trouble making it stick. Is the problem “X” or the way we’re training and teaching our staff? Frank Pigneri, Sr. Manager of Customer Training and Development at Essilor is the guest on our show. He discusses some of the finer points of optical training, what should be included in a good training program, when to do it, how to make it stick as well as a host of other great topics related to staff education.
Sep 20, 2017 - You practice in an area that is very conservative. Your long time trusted, well known receptionist who had brown hair yesterday, shows up with purple hair today. What should you do? What can you do? Your optician shows up with a therapy dog. Your insurance biller is afraid of dogs. Now what? Attorney Julia Goldman is the guest on the Power Hour.
Sep 06, 2017 - We have all watched kids scroll through life, with their rapid-fire thumbs and a six-second attention span. Physician and filmmaker Delaney Ruston saw that with her own kids and learned that the average kid spends 6.5 hours a day looking at screens. She wondered about the impact of all this time and about the friction occurring in homes and schools around negotiating screen time—friction she knew all too well.
Aug 30, 2017 - Years of scientific research and intensive study of real-world applications have led to incredible breakthroughs in the way businesses large and small identify and hire top talent in their fields. Optimize Hire, a leading Internet-based pre-employment testing company focused on helping organizations hire better, joins Local Eye Site on this episode of the Power Hour to discuss this important topic.
Aug 23, 2017 - The CDC, in close collaboration with industry partners, has organized Contact Lens Health Week as a strategy to increase public awareness and promote healthy contact lens wear and care. Jennifer Cope, MD, MPH from the CDC and Joseph P. Shovlin, O.D., F.A.A.O., the President, American Academy of Optometry, join the Power Hour to discuss the fourth annual Contact Lens Health Week. This year’s campaign theme is “healthy habits mean healthy eyes” with a focus on encouraging youth to start healthy habits early, for healthy eyes later. Increased awareness about the importance of proper contact lens hygiene can encourage contact lens wearers to adopt healthy habits that can reduce their chances of getting an eye infection.
Aug 16, 2017 - Five years ago the first Power Hour episode discussed the future of optometry. What's has and hasn't come true since that show? The dialogue will probably surprise you!
Aug 09, 2017 - It’s as constant and inescapable as gravity. Yet, most of us only focus on the downside of the 80-20 rule and don’t look at how it can actually help our practices. That changes on this episode of the Power Hour when Gary discusses how this powerful principle can help you build your practice. Marketing, staffing, accounts receivable, and scheduling are but a few of the areas that can be improved once you understand how to leverage this natural law.
Aug 02, 2017 - While Google Glass “1.0” certainly had enough challenges that prevented it from becoming mainstream in optometry, other companies (including Google) haven’t stopped developing new and better products. Listen to this episode of the Power Hour as we bring back industry expert David Friedfeld, the president of ClearVision and Dr. Richard Clompus, the VP of Communications for PogoTec and we visit the current state of wearable eyewear and how it can work in your practice.
Jul 26, 2017 - What’s the secret number of dollars that should trigger you to start thinking, “I need help and need to hire an associate?” Does such a number even exist? Regardless, when the time comes and you decide to bring an associate into your practice, how should you do it? On the next episode of the Power Hour, Gary discusses the nuances and best practices to bringing on an associate doctor. When you should do it, how to it and why you should (or shouldn’t) consider it. Like all the practice building topics discussed on the show, you can expect this discussion to be thought provoking with very different information you’re likely to hear anywhere else!
Jul 19, 2017 - Listen to this episode as we discuss the current state of telemedicine, what Smart Vision Labs (www.smartvisionlabs.com) has learned since their last appearance and why they have re-released their latest device. Two of the newest clinical studies will be discussed on the show. Smart Vision believes OD’s can work well with them instead of having an adversarial relationship and welcomes your calls on the show. So, is it really an eye exam in an iPhone or something else? Tune in and find out!
Jul 12, 2017 - Treehouse Eyes opened about a year ago. Founded by Dr. Gary Gerber and industry veteran Matt Oerding, with two centers already open in the DC area, Matt and Gary discuss how and why the company launched, what the results have been so far and what their future expansions plans are.
Jun 28, 2017 - Erik Lilligren from Eyecarevideo.tv joins the show and talks about why and how practices can effectively use video in their practices. Learn the tips and tricks the pros use to promote your practice and make you stand out from the crowd! An overlooked medium, and often used poorly, video can be a great tool to position your practice, especially in crowded markets.
Jun 14, 2017 - Whether it’s Google ad words, boosting a Facebook post, or a recall snail mail postcard – the basics of marketing still apply. Ignore any of these and your attempts are sure to fail. Use all of them and you’re sure to succeed. Gary covers all you need to know about this important topic on this episode of the Power Hour.
Jun 07, 2017 - Two weeks ago, the Vice President of Operations for the Power Practice, Paul Ferraro, was our guest on the show. Paul discussed the first steps in recruiting top talent – job posts, telephone screening, etc. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour as the discussion continues. Topics include the actual in person interview – questions, flow, structure, working interviews, the onboarding process, staff retention and why staff members really leave and an array of other important topics.
May 31, 2017 - Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour when Gary invites listeners to share their most “off the wall” customer service tricks and tips. He also brings many of the strategies he used in his own practice as well as those of very successful practices from around the country.
May 24, 2017 - Harvard Business Review estimates that 80 percent of turnover is due to bad hiring decisions. The consequences of a wrong hire can go beyond turnover costs. Listen to this episode of the Power Hour to learn how you can minimize the “bad hire” occurrence, on your way to building a happy and productive staff.
May 10, 2017 - We surveyed ODs to find out! Learn which ODs are the happiest, what makes them unhappy, and what you can do to increase your own professional satisfaction. Tune in to the Power Hour to hear Gary discuss this interesting topic with Dr. Bethany Fishbein.
May 03, 2017 - Continuing and building on last weeks’ episode on how to elevate your customer service, Gary discusses innovative techniques to empower your staff. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour for strategies that allow your staff to help you, are welcomed by them, last beyond one office meeting and immediately add to your bottom line.
Apr 26, 2017 - What can optometrists learn from the latest United Airlines customer service debacle? A LOT! Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour where Gary discusses great ways to amp up your customer service, a simple technique to measure it, and what to do when things go horribly wrong – which at some point, they absolutely will!
Apr 19, 2017 - There’s more to cutting costs than squeezing your sales reps for better deals. Gary discusses his top five ways so add to your practice’s bottom line on this episode of the Power Hour.
Apr 12, 2017 - Do you look forward to office meetings, or do you dread them and then ultimately cancel them? Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour where Gary discusses new ways to effectively and efficiently hold staff meetings that are productive and add to your practice’s bottom line.
Apr 05, 2017 - Decreasing revenues with increasing expenses and regulations, online eyeglass selling, “generic” contact lenses and online refraction – to name just a few things – are going to fundamentally change and possibly eliminate optometry as we know it. Gary talks about why that’s a GOOD thing and how you can leverage the tsunami of change NOW to position your practice for whatever the future holds. Tune in to this thought provoking episode of the Power Hour!
Mar 22, 2017 - Vision by Design, the country’s best meeting on myopia control is right around the corner. Get a snapshot of myopia control in general and the meeting in particular from Dr. Paul Levine, President of the American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control. Paul gets listeners up-to-date on what’s new in myopia control and talk about why it’s important for your practice.
Mar 15, 2017 - Drs. Mark Rosner and Debby Feinberg are back on the show to discuss some of the latest work they’ve been doing with minute amounts of prism. On the previous show they discussed how they have had literally life changing results for their patients by carefully prescribing minute amounts of prism. Get caught up on some of their latest work on this episode of the Power Hour.
Mar 08, 2017 - Mike Hundert is the current Chairman of The Vision Council, as well as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Creative Officer of De Rigo Rem, part of the world's fourth largest provider of eyewear. Mike joins Gary for a discussion on the Power Hour to give his thoughts on what is arguably the biggest merger – ever - in the eyecare industry, and how it will affect consumers, other frame and lens manufacturers and your practice. Don't miss this thought provoking and interesting episode.
Mar 01, 2017 - On last week's show, Gary talked about successful strategies to externally market your practice. This week, the show focuses on internal marketing. Learn to turn last week's prospects into patients, who then become practice evangelists on this informative and entertaining episode of the Power Hour.
Feb 22, 2017 - Gary rolls up his sleeves and gets into a discussion about some innovative external marketing strategies you should be using at your practice. What works, what doesn’t, how to budget and plan your marketing and how to create compelling campaigns are all topics to be covered on this show.
Feb 15, 2017 - Barney Dougher, President of HOYA Vision Care, Americas, joins the show to give his opinion on how eyecare’s biggest merger ever may affect your practice and the industry. Our last show on this topic had our largest listening audience ever and we expect this episode to be even BIGGER!
Feb 08, 2017 - You’ve worked really hard to get patients to come into your practice. Are you working as hard to make sure they never leave . . . and come back when they should? This episode of the Power Hour is dedicated to what Gary calls, “the lifeblood of EVERY business and practice.” Learn why it’s so important and then how to make yours better – regardless of how you actually do it! Which are better? Postcards or text messages? Robo-calls or real people calling? Does pre-appointing matter? Be ready take notes for this episode! What you hear Wednesday night, you’ll start using Thursday morning!
Feb 01, 2017 - Inventory is a major expense for a practice yet one that rarely gets any attention beyond – “There’s a hole on the board – I guess we need to fill it with something.” On this episode of the Power Hour, Gary takes your calls and shares easy strategies to help you control what for most practices, is arguably the biggest potential profit generator – or potential profit loser – in a practice.
Jan 25, 2017 - On a recent Power Hour episode, Gary shared strategies for hiring a great team. But what happens after they're hired? Learn how to get alignment with your practice values and ways to get procedural things to stick! If you commonly say to staff, "We just went over that exact thing in a staff meeting!" then you'll want to tune in to this episode.
Jan 18, 2017 - Reuters news and other historically reliable news sources recently reported a proposed merger between Essilor and Luxottica. Howard Purcell, O.D., F.A.A.O., DIPL., Senior Vice President of Customer Development at Essilor, joins a special news breaking edition of the Power Hour. Callers speak to Howard and learn about how this breaking news will affect the industry.
Jan 11, 2017 - A recent landmark court case for a New York Yoga Studio may have far reaching consequences on how doctors pay their associates. The concept of Independent Contractors and how they can work in your practice is the topic of the next episode of the Power Hour. Join attorney Elizabeth Harlan who argued the case on behalf of the Yoga Studio, that their employees were indeed independent contractors. It’s an important topic for any doctor who has an associate or might hire one in the future!
Jan 04, 2017 - On the first Power Hour of the year, Gary talks about starting at step one of practice team building: hiring a great team. Hear some great strategies you can use the next time you need to hire someone – which as you’ll hear on the show – might not be as far off into the future as you might think! If you’re a new practice owner or a seasoned veteran, you’ll get a lot of benefit by listening to this first episode of 2017!
Dec 21, 2016 - On the Oct 26th episode, Gary discussed “Part 1” about how to use public speaking to grow your practice. Listen to Part 2, on this episode of the Power Hour. Learn everything, from content development to presentation style to creative ways to use Power Point (or NO Power Point) or Prezi, how to deal with questions and difficult audience members, suggestions for handouts and a lot more. You already talk to patients every day and are great at it. Why not do the same thing in your community and talk to prospective patients? Learn how to make your own presentations more dynamic and memorable!
Dec 14, 2016 - The Power Hour welcomes Maureen Cavanagh on this episode. A 24 year industry veteran, Maureen heads up this important group whose mission is to enhance and promote the leadership role of women in the ophthalmic industry through networking and peer support. Maureen talks about what the association brings to its members and the industry as well as their goals for 2017.
Dec 07, 2016 - VSP's Global Board Chair Dan Mannen, O.D., F.A.A.O., and VSP Vision Care President Kate Renwick-Espinosa are our guests. Dr. Mannen discusses his new position paper on managed vision care, which explores the value it provides patients and consumers, and why he believes the channel is so important to independent optometry. The guests also discuss VSP’s focus for 2017, how it is helping increase access to care, and take questions on other topics from callers.
Nov 30, 2016 - Join Jerry as he talks about big picture changes in optometry such as selling models, online commerce, legislative battles, private lable contact lenses and more.
Nov 16, 2016 - If you could do five – and only five – things to build your practice, what would they be? On this episode of the Power Hour, Gary shares his own special list of what he recommends to jumpstart your practice and ensure it stays highly efficient and profitable.
Nov 09, 2016 - Dr. Mark Jacquot, Luxottica’s VP and Clinical Director, Vision Care Operations is the guest on this episode of the Power Hour. Mark discusses his thoughts on the current state of corporate optometry and where he sees it fitting in the big picture of optometry’s future.
Nov 02, 2016 - David Friedfeld is back on the air to share his thoughts about everything from what the optical of the future will look like to how many frames should be in a typical practice. We discuss the pros/cons of carrying ubiquitous brands vs. frames from smaller independent companies, frame markup strategies and a potpourri of other important topics.
Oct 26, 2016 - Having given more than 1,000 presentations to audience sizes of 2 to 2,000, Gary taps into his experience and discusses how to use this powerful medium to get out into your community and build your practice. Everything from content development to presentation style to creative ways to use Power Point or Prezi are discussed on this episode of the Power Hour. You already talk to patients every day and are great at it. Why not do the same thing in your community and talk to prospective patients? Learn how to make your own presentations more dynamic and memorable!
Oct 12, 2016 - By using new technology, more opticians are now able to offer auto-refraction to patients. Some of them are having the data signed remotely and used as an eyeglass prescription. Is this a convenience for patients and a business builder for the optician, or a public health hazard? Is this part of the future of eyecare that should be embraced or avoided? Listen to the this episode of the Power Hour when Yaopeng Zhou, the CEO of Smart Vision Labs calls in to discuss this important topic.
Oct 05, 2016 - Listen to Gary on this episode of the Power Hour where he shares some of his unique perspectives around delegating. This is much more than “buy an automated X and have your tech use it.” Learn some very compelling reasons about WHY you should be delegating, what you should delegate and how to get it done. As with all of Gary’s shows, you’re sure to get a perspective on a previously mundane topic you hadn’t ever considered before!
Sep 28, 2016 - In addition to conventional marketing, properly used, public relations can be a huge benefit to most practices. Tune in to this episode when PR professional Jennifer Bodner discusses how to get a great campaign in place for your practice.
Sep 21, 2016 - Your state law changed to say you could never see another new patient or raise your fees? Listen to this thought provoking episode of the Power Hour with Gary leading the discussion.
Sep 14, 2016 - Listen to this episode of Power Hour when we take your calls to discuss specifically how using a consultant helped your practice.
Aug 31, 2016 - Your practice rent is one of the largest ongoing expenses your practice has. Learn from real estate expert, Chuck Feitel, how to minimize your rent and maximize concessions from your landlord on this episode of the Power Hour.
Aug 24, 2016 - Dr. Cheryl Engels, Senior Consultant from the Power Practice is our guest this week. Dr. Engels runs the “Practice Made Perfect” program at the Power Practice and discusses her list of “must do and must know” before you open or buy your next practice. Tune in for some lively and insightful discussion on this important topic!
Aug 17, 2016 - Most of us know George Martin as No. 75 of the New York Football Giants, the star defensive end of the 1970s and ‘80s, with 96 quarterback sacks, the touchdown record for a defensive lineman, a Super Bowl win and an incredible interception that Coach Bill Parcells called the greatest football play he has ever seen. George is an NFL legend, but he’s also so much more. Son of a sharecropper who grew up dirt poor in the American South, through talent and determination, family and faith, George Martin became a true leader on the field and off, a man whose relentless positive energy and ability to inspire know no bounds. He has championed NFL colleagues as their union president, advocated for retired players with chronic injuries, and created a non-profit to help young people find their way to responsible adulthood through athletics and mentoring. He joins the Power Hour along with Dr. Don Teig to talk about how OD’s can get more involved with concussion care for athletes. Tune it to this very special episode!
Aug 10, 2016 - It’s easy to get bogged down in the regulations around security compliance, HIPAA and billing and coding requirements. While the information is available to help you navigate the confusion, there are companies who can carry that burden for you. Rob Marcella from CSEye talks about when it is (and isn’t) a good idea to outsource this important part of your practice, what to watch for when making the decision and other relevant topics.
Aug 03, 2016 - Alan Homestead, OD is the guest on this informative episode. Get the latest on preventing and surviving audits, meaningful use updates, using after hours codes, using your iPhone for anterior seg photos and a host of other important updates. As the director of billing coding at the Power Practice, Alan is uniquely capable to share his expertise on this important topic.
Jul 27, 2016 - It might be an old saying, but it certainly applies to any OD trying to manage their practice. Listen to this episode where Gary shares his, and his Power Practice client list of, “If I’d only known then what I know now I would have . . .” On tap for this interesting episode are topics like starting a practice that focuses on everything except the doctor, learning practice building from anyone but an optometrist, the importance of culture, what marketing really means for an OD and lessons learned about staff management.
Jul 20, 2016 - Dr. Edward Paul gets us up-to-date on how OD’s can integrate nutrition into their practices. Everything from science to practice management is on tap for this episode.
Jul 13, 2016 - Tarik Sedky from Agency Pure has done advertising for Glaxo Smith Kline, DuPont, AT&T, Home Depot and many other large corporations. Now, he’s our guest on the Power Hour where he shares his words of wisdom and discusses how optometrists can emulate the marketing messaging of these huge companies – at a fraction of the cost. He covers the most common mistakes small businesses make in their marketing and talks about how you can improve yours.
Jul 06, 2016 - Lukas Ruecker, president of EyeMed and Dr. John Lahr, VP of Provider Relations return to the Power Hour to take your calls. Topics include their perspectives on the managed vision care marketplace overall, where and how they think optometry will be practiced in the future and how EyeMed is working with doctors to promote positive clinical patient care outcomes and a positive overall consumer experience.
Jun 29, 2016 - Architect Joost Bende is our guest this episode of the Power Hour. With experience designing medical and optometry practices of all shapes and sizes, Joost answers questions about your own personal design challenges and answer questions about everything from color schemes to window placement.
Jun 22, 2016 - Drs. Barry Eiden and Andrew Morgenstern join the show to get listeners up-to-date on all things keratoconus. It’s more prevalent than you think and there’s a lot more you can do about it than just stress over patients never being really happy with their contact lenses. We’ll also take a deep dive into cross linking and how it fits in an OD’s practice.
Jun 15, 2016 - Drs. Tom Arnold and Nathan Schramm are fitting a lot of their patients with scleral lenses. Are you? Find out why they’ve become so popular in their practices, and how the doctors became clinically competent and practice management savvy with these specialty lenses. Find out how you too can get on board with one of the hottest modalities in contact lens care.
Jun 08, 2016 - Jason Nichols, OD, MPH, PhD, FAAO, shares his thoughts and data about how contact lenses are viewed and prescribed outside the U.S. and what American doctors can learn from their international colleagues.
Jun 01, 2016 - Gary walks through the most important “mid year” metrics to examine as we approach the halfway point of the year. Are you hitting the goal you laid out back in January and are you sticking to your budget? Scheduling, staffing and marketing are all fair game for discussion on this episode of the Power Hour!
May 25, 2016 - Johnson & Johnson Vision Care President Peter Menziuso and Vice President of Professional Affairs Dr. Millicent L. Knight discuss current trends in the contact lens industry, opportunities to expand your contact lens practice, their recent entry into the monthly lens category, and their recent decision to eliminate UPP pricing for the company's contact lenses. Listen to this episode of the Power Hour and get an update on current contact lens market trends and legislative battles being waged around the country.
May 18, 2016 - Previously unaware of the enormous unmet demand for eye care within his San Francisco community, Robert Bell began using his influence as a long-time eye care industry executive, consultant, and speaker to inspire more eye care professionals to volunteer and to bring in more optical and optometric resources, equipment, and eyewear to the Project Homeless Connect vision program in San Francisco. Hear about Robert’s journey and how you can do the same thing to support your own communities.
May 11, 2016 - Moscot is a New York institution currently headed by Director, Dr. Harvey Moscot. As a fourth generation owner in arguably the most competitive optical environment on the planet, Harvey shares his company’s legacy and “secret sauce” to enduring for so strongly for so long. Take a deep dive with Harvey on the Power Hour and hear this fascinating story about how all of his locations compete not only with Warby Parker, but with every other conceivable optical competitor on the price volume curve spectrum.
May 04, 2016 - We’re honored to welcome one of optometry’s best known speakers, Dr. Paul Karpecki back to the Power Hour! Paul gets us up-to-date on everything from anterior segment technology, disease and treatment, advances in refractive surgery and keratoconus – and just about anything else you might think of! Take advantage of this rare opportunity to listen to a genuine optometric thought leader on this episode.
Apr 27, 2016 - Healthcare attorney Susan Orr is back on the Power Hour. Our topic is the recent increase in audits by Medicare and other 3rd party payors resulting in overpayments that need to be returned by the provider. Hear how to approach these audits and what to do when you discover a billing error. Also, get up to date information on REQUIRED compliance plans that are necessary to remain a participating provider in Medicare. We also discuss the sale of practices – stock purchase or asset purchase – the pros and cons of each.
Apr 20, 2016 - Dr. Vance Thompson is our special guest on this episode of the Power Hour. Vance has been, and is currently involved in many FDA studies related to refractive surgery. Listen to his insights about what’s hot, what’s not and what you must know about the next wave of dry eye treatments, cross linking, phakic IOL’s, presbyopia treatments and cataract surgery. With Vance on the show, be prepared for a fascinating discussion – and the show’s FIRST discussion about refractive surgery!
Apr 13, 2016 - Talking about everything from an anterior seg update to national and state optometric politics, Dr. Art Epstein is back on the show. Never one to hold back an opinion on all things optometry, we welcome Art back to the show.
Apr 06, 2016 - Industry veteran, Mike Daley, is the guest on this episode of the Power Hour. As the CEO of the Vision Council, Mike discusses this important industry organization whose mission is to grow in the vision care industry through education, advocacy, research, consumer outreach, strategic relationship building and industry forums. Mike also talks about their role in the upcoming Vision Expo East meeting and Think About Your Eyes.
Mar 30, 2016 - Kate Gifford, OD joins the show to talk about the parallels and differences in how optometry is practiced in Australia vs. the US. Business topics like the competitive landscape, corporate optometry and Internet sellers will be discussed in addition to clinical practice differences. Don't miss this interesting discussion!
Mar 23, 2016 - Questions and comments for the current AOA president, Steven Loomis, OD on this episode of the Power Hour. Listen to the discussion about what the AOA has been working on of late and an in depth conversation about the current legislative battle with 1-800-Contacts, particularly in Arizona. Don’t miss this VERY important episode!
Mar 17, 2016 - Live from the Vision Source Exchange in San Antonio, TX. Listen in and join the discussion about where we’ve been, and more importantly, where we’re headed – and how you should prepare for what may lie ahead. Joining us are key industry executives from Vision Source as well as some members, old and new, to give their different perspectives.
Mar 09, 2016 - The Power Hour is now listened to in 109 countries. We broadcast from the United States and talk mostly about what’s happening here. Why then, do optometrists from Albania to Zimbabwe listen? Answering that question and others, on this episode of the Power Hour, is Leo Mac Canna, the CEO and founder of the practice management software company, Ocuco. Ocuco is the second largest optical retail software company in the world, and continues to expand globally, with offices in the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Italy, France, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Australia and China. Given their global experience, Leo shares his insights on the world view of optometry and what some of the more “quirky” best practices are from around the world that we can all benefit from.
Mar 02, 2016 - Chris Marentis, respected authority on internet marketing and founder of Surefire Social, an internet marketing company making major waves in optometry, is the guest on this episode of the Power Hour. Joining Chris is Dr. Alan Glazier, a noted industry expert on digital marketing and social media.
Feb 24, 2016 - Dr. Thomas Aller has been using multifocal contact lenses for years – successfully! Yes, those same lenses that many of us run from, Tom runs towards! Find out why and how he readily embraces these lenses and how he’s integrated them into his practice on this episode of the Power Hour!
Feb 17, 2016 - Tune in to this episode and listen as VSP’s CEO, Jim McGrann takes your calls and questions from Gary. Topics include everything from VSP’s Premier program, VSP’s new relationship with CVS and just about anything else listeners want to call in and talk to Jim about. Don’t miss this important and unique opportunity to hear how Jim responds to your questions answered directly from the CEO!
Feb 10, 2016 - Listen to the show as Dr. Nick Despotidis talks about how he built one of the largest corneal reshaping practices on the planet and how it allowed him to provide a quality of practice and personal life that many of us only dream about. Prepare to be inspired!
Feb 03, 2016 - It’s 5:00 PM, you’ve got your coat on and are heading out the door when your office manager stops you and says, “Mrs. Abrasion is on her way over. She was in a lot of pain so I thought it was best she come right over. I’m sorry – I hope that was OK.” Of course it’s OK because you want to take care of this patient, but in doing so, you’ll now be late for your daughter’s violin recital. Nearly all doctors, whether they are practice owners or associates, working in private or corporate practices, struggle with work–life balance. On this episode of the Power Hour former AOA President, current full time OD and mom, Dr. Dori Carlson joins the show. Tune in to hear about how she juggled three full time jobs when most of us stress over just one.
Guest: Nikki Iravani, OD You already know your patients are constantly looking at their mobile devices. ...
Jan 20, 2016 - Is he a comedian or an OD? Dr. Monty Vickers’ witty insightful monthly columns having been making us laugh for more than 25 years. Now, for the first time ever, he brings his “show” to live radio! Listen to Monty and Gary on this episode of the Power Hour as they make light of all things optometric.
Jan 13, 2016 - Show cancelled due to technical difficulties
Jan 06, 2016 - James Diecidue shares his unique viewpoints about how he thinks EHR’s SHOULD work, why some don’t work that way and his opinion on a new solution. Tune in to hear this fresh viewpoint about a very important topic.
Dec 16, 2015It’s been said that buying a house is the single biggest decision you’ll ever make . . . unless of course you’re buying a practice or starting your own. Tune in to this episode of the Power Hour when Gary discusses his unique consultant’s view on how to stack the deck in your favor to ensure your success.
Dec 09, 2015 - It could be argued that for today’s OD, an OCT is as essential to the medical part of a practice as a phoropter is to the refractive practice. With that level of importance, we are dedicating this episode to all things OCT. To keep things lively and informative, we’ve invited competing OCT manufacturers to discuss the importance of the technology as well as why they believe their device is best.
Dec 02, 2015 - Digital dispensing devices are the topic of this episode of the Power Hour. Guests include representatives from Zeiss, VSP, Shamir, Hoya and Essilor.
Nov 18, 2015 - Barry Tannen, OD, FCOVD, FAAO is our guest on this informative episode. Barry talks about the latest body of evidence around optometric diagnosis and treatment of concussions and TBI patients and how you can make this a part of your practice. It’s a fascinating topic where OD’s are making significant, life changing differences for their patients!
Nov 11, 2015 - 2016 is now only six weeks away. Power Hour host and practice management consultant Gary Gerber, OD talks about the three things every practice should be doing NOW to ensure they get 2016 off to a profitable start and sustain growth during the course of the year. Be ready to take notes for this show as Gary takes a deep dive into his three top planning strategies and how to ensure they get implemented and stick!
Nov 04, 2015 - Does spending time outside really make a difference in myopia progression? Should you really be telling parents of myopic kids to limit time on their iPads? Separate the myths from the facts on this important show.
Oct 28, 2015 - Angie Paccione, Ph.D from Verus Global is our guest on this episode of the Power Hour. With her diverse background as an educator, professional basketball player and Colorado legislator, Angie talks about how to create a positive culture in your practice and how it leads to greater profitability. The keynote speaker at the last Power Practice National Client meeting, Angie received a standing ovation at the conclusion of her motivating and very practical and useful talk. Be sure to listen to this important episode, invite your staff to listen and get started on the path of becoming an inspiring leader!
Oct 21, 2015 - Hear why doctors should join an alliance, and specifically, why they should join THEIR alliance. Is it just about who has the best price on a box of contact lenses, or is there more to it now? Is inclusion in a changing healthcare system a function of joining the “right” group or are they all the same? What about live meetings and camaraderie? Is that important? With six choices, which group – if any – is best for YOUR practice?
Oct 14, 2015 - They claim to help keep your appointment books full, help get positive online reviews, automate marketing emails and texts, and decrease the workload for your staff. But which one is right for you? You won't want to miss this episode where 4patientcare, Demandforce, Solutionreach, and Websystem3 discuss each of their offerings.
Oct 07, 2015 - Dr. Don Teig is our guest on this episode of the Power Hour. Don discusses how he got his start in sports vision and ultimately wound up working with the NY Yankees, Knicks and training other doctors to work with their local sports teams and athletes. He also talks about his newest venture, The A Team, High Performance Vision Associates and some of their work across the country.
Sep 30, 2015 - Dentist have it made! Or do they? Trevor Maurer from SmileSource, a network of independent dentists is our guest on the next Power Hour. With years of vision care experience behind him, Trevor talks about the similarities between us and how we can leverage dental’s best practices in our practices.
Sep 23, 2015 - With so much talk about social media and online reviews, is there still a necessity for a web site for most practices? Tune in as the experts from iMatrix talk about why a broad based web approach still matters and how to go about making sure your web site is robust and meaningful to patients and prospective patients
Sep 18, 2015 - Marc Ferrara – the CEO of information services at Jobson gets us up to date on why generational differences matter in our practices and what we should do about them Jeremy Poincenot - 2010 World Blind Golf Champion shares his incredible inspirational life story and talks about the Vision of Children Foundation
Sep 17, 2015 - Tony Hawk – Tony talks about his new line of eyeglasses and his foundation Tom Loughran – from Reed Exhibitions, Tom discusses some of the “must see/do” things for Vision Expo attendees Anne Marie Luthro – get ready for a fascinating discussion about optical shopper psychology and environmental factors that affect purchasing decisions
Sep 09, 2015 - Gary is the guest! Listen as he’s interviewed by Frank Giammanco and discusses his views on where the industry is headed and what OD’s should do to prepare and succeed. He also shares some personal history about what brought about the Power Hour in the first place, future plans for the show and how it will benefit listeners. Finally, listen to a “consulting free for all/stump Gary session”.
Sep 02, 2015 - Attorney Ron Goldman, director of legal services for the Power Practice, joins this episode. Listen as we take a deep dive into many of your legal questions.
Aug 26, 2015 - Never one to hold back his oft viewed controversial opinions, Barry discusses: Why Rx expiration dates undermine a doctor’s credibility The 5 stages of grief & Warby Parker The 5 things ODs should never say An Optician's view of “outside” prescriptions Why you should give patients a prescription for “plano” as opposed to simply saying, “You don’t need glasses."
Aug 12, 2015 - Their company's vision is, “To be the premium progressive lens designer and vendor in the United States.” Shamir CEO, Raanan Naftalovich joins the show and discusses how they are doing that in the face of the constantly changing vision care landscape. Raanan opines on everything from the effect of vision care plans, internet eyeglasses and refractions, decreasing emphasis on optical sales, social media and millennials on this eclectic episode.
Aug 05, 2015 - When most doctors at this point in their careers would have already retired, Dr. Neil Draisin is forging on. He has continually built larger and larger practices and assimilated nearly every specialty service into his still growing practice, Neil’s drive and enthusiasm to keep pushing his practice forward is contagious. Neil shares his wisdom with us on this episode of the Power Hour.
Jul 29, 2015 - Technology is shrinking and autorefractors are no exception. But what does the reduction in size mean beyond simply saving space in your practice? Are there other implications and is this trend likely to continue? Listen to our guests from Smart Vision Labs as we discuss their technology and handheld technology in general and what the implications might be for your patients and practice.
Jul 22, 2015 - Pat Caroline talks about the reasons for the recent resurgence of GP lenses, how practitioners can get educated and benefit from current new modalities and designs and also what’s on the horizon.
Jul 15, 2015 - Listen to the discussion about ethical practice dilemmas. What would you do? Don't miss this very special episode where the guest is YOU and YOUR personal experiences!
Jul 08, 2015 - Newly elected AOA president, Dr. Steve Loomis, Dr. Carla Mack, from Alcon, Jon Torrey and Dave Plogmann, both from Think About Your Eyes (TAYE) join the next Power Hour. Our guests discuss this important national public awareness campaign that is presented by the Vision Council and the AOA.
Jul 01, 2015 - David Friedfeld joins us on this episode to give his thoughts on industry trends. As the president of a large frame company, he shares a different perspective on things like Internet eyeglasses, managed vision care, online refractions, social media as well as a host of other important topics affecting today’s eye care professionals.
Jun 24, 2015 - Listen to Jim McGrann, the current president and soon to be CEO of VSP on this episode of the Power Hour. Jim answers your questions and discusses what’s new at VSP. Get an update on the Premier program, hear about Jim's plan and direction once he becomes CEO, his view on why the millennial market is so important to the industry, and his thoughts on how managed vision care and practitioners can cooperate to the betterment of patients.
Jun 17, 2015 - The effects of blue light on your patients has been all over the news. Is the science solid, and if so, what are you doing about it? Which lens is best and how should you present it to your patients? Is all blue light bad? Why the emphasis on it now vs. years ago? Get answers to these questions and more.
Jun 10, 2015 - Google Glass may be in the history books, but as optician John Bonizio discusses on this episode of The Power Hour, wearable eyewear technology can be a significant part of your practice. John talks about particular products he recommends for his patients, how they are presented and aligned with conventional eyewear.
Jun 03, 2015 - Dr. Keith Thompson from Digital Vision Systems joins the show and talks about new technology that could very well replace your phoropter and be a genuine “game changer.” Keith is the head of the team developing this breakthrough technology and the implications for your practice are staggering.
May 27, 2015 - Hear the discussion about a wide array of topics from opening a practice cold and dealing with lease negotiations, buying a practice and getting the best price, staff management challenges and solutions, practical ways to increase revenue with actual numbers and data, expanding by adding special services, and how to plan for a profitable and enjoyable exit.
May 20, 2015 - The mission of the Vision Impact Institute is to raise awareness about the importance of healthy vision, including the socio-economic impact of Uncorrected Refractive Errors and quality of life benefits of visual correction.
May 13, 2015 - Alan separates fact from fiction regarding what you should do to prepare for ICD 10. He also discusses some of the most common billing and coding myths.
May 06, 2015 - Knock, Knock... Who's there? Your 1:30 vision test appointment.
Apr 29, 2015 - Vision Source CEO, Jim Greenwood talks about what’s new in healthcare and at Vision Source. Dr. Walt West talks about Vision Source’s Optical Dream program and Bret Davis discusses how Vision Source’s size (now the largest doctor alliance in the US) has had an impact for their members.
Apr 22, 2015 - Dr. Joseph Ross, the president of NYOIPA, (New York Optometrist Independent Practice Association) joins the Power Hour to discuss how IPA’s are changing the face of managed vision care.
Apr 15, 2015 - Brien Holden talks about the growing myopia epidemic, why it’s growing so fast, why it’s important for OD’s to get involved, how to get involved and new research around myopia prevention.
Apr 08, 2015 - Art Epstein is among the professions straightest shooters. He'll discuss specific ways to increase your bottom line and practice success on this episode of the Power Hour!
Apr 01, 2015 - Dr. Stephen Cohen is an optometrist from Scottsdale, AZ who sees more than his fair share of dry eye patients. Based on that experience, he’s taken a keen interest in Sjogren’s syndrome, which according to Stephen, is more prevalent than most doctors believe. He shares his diagnostic and treatment protocol and discusses how it’s helped him successfully build a practice that is now well known for treating these difficult cases.
Mar 25, 2015 - Dr. Jeffrey Anshel, an OD who has been involved with nutrition for years, helps doctors sift through fact and fiction regarding nutrition as it relates to patients vision and eye health.
Mar 21, 2015 - Listen to this Live Show broadcast from Vision Expo East
Mar 20, 2015 - Listen to a very special show, over two days of Vision Expo East when we broadcast live from the exhibit hall floor!
Mar 11, 2015 - Joe discusses the next big thing in contact lenses, the current state of optometry education (too many schools, quality of applicants), current state of contact lens research and consumer trends.
Mar 06, 2015 - Listen to this very special episode of the Power Hour live from SECO in Atlanta!
Feb 25, 2015 - With all that’s going on in optometry, make sure you don’t miss this very special guest and broadcast.
Feb 18, 2015 - Elizabeth Harlan is an attorney who specializes in ADA law for small businesses. This is one show you don’t want to miss!
Feb 11, 2015 - Andrea joins the show and talks about how practitioners can brand their practices, compete with online retailers, build a solid and unique culture that sticks and supports sales, merchandising and social media.
Feb 04, 2015 - Drs. Mark Rosner and Debby Feinberg have done some remarkable work in helping patients with headaches and vertigo who were previously told there was no help for their debilitating problems. They didn’t do it with drugs, surgery, or VT. They did it with prism. Listen to this interesting show.
Jan 28, 2015 - You know that meaningful use check you got from the government? Did you know you may have to give it back? Listen to this informative show!
Jan 21, 2015 - All your questions about generic vs. brand medications are answered on this show.
Jan 14, 2015 - Listen to this informative broadcast as Holly discusses her view of where the eyewear market is headed and what you should be doing to prepare for it.
Jan 07, 2015 - Don't miss this debate about Facebook and Gary's "must" for for 2015
Dec 17, 2014 - Lukas Ruecker took the helm as president of EyeMed just over a year ago. He and his team have emphasized that open dialogue with the OD community is critical, and they see Power Hour as an opportunity to keep the conversation going. Listen to the discussion with one of the largest vision care plans in our industry.
Dec 10, 2014 - Noted glaucoma expert Dr. Murray Fingeret joined the show and talked to callers about anything related to glaucoma. New diagnostic tools, treatments and practice building pearls were all discussed in this information packed show!
Dec 03, 2014 - Are there REALLY too many OD’s? It’s said so often but does the data really support that there are too many doctors?
Nov 26, 2014 - Listen to Dr. Jim Thimons give a “tour” from the front to the back of the eye talking about the latest clinical studies, technologies and treatments for your patients.
Nov 19, 2014 - While you may love kids, you might not love them as patients. Hear about how to integrate this important segment of needed care into your practice.
Nov 12, 2014 - It might be only a matter of time before patients can buy a pair of glasses from a kiosk like RedBox. With online retailers sprouting up like weeds and prices dropping to nearly zero, what can practitioners do to avoid the commoditization of eyewear?
Nov 05, 2014 - As we begin to wind down 2014, savvy practitioners are planning to succeed in 2015. Listen to the first of a special two part Power Hour as Gary discusses what you should be doing to ensure your success next year.
Oct 29, 2014 - With so much data available, which is the most important to keep track of for YOUR particular practice?
Oct 22, 2014 - Just when you thought it was safe to have lunch with a sales rep...
Oct 15, 2014 - Learn the reasons why Dr. Jeff Cooper is such a strong proponent of myopia control, how he does it in his own practice and what the financial implications can be for your practice.
Oct 10, 2014 - What’s the next new, cool, important, big thing for ODs to be aware of?
Oct 01, 2014 - Listen to the conversation with representatives from Essilor, Zeiss and Hoya
Sep 24, 2014 - Learn how your practice and patients can benefit from the latest in GP technology
Sep 19, 2014 - Day 2 live from Vision Expo West
Sep 18, 2014 - Hear the live broadcast from the exhibit hall floor
Sep 10, 2014 - Is your billing and coding actually getting done?
Sep 03, 2014 - Angel returns to the show to give an update on UPP for contact lenses and what you need to know about it
Aug 27, 2014 - Hear about Oakley's branding strategies and how you can use them in your own practice
Aug 20, 2014 - Getting a new practice management and EHR software can bring about mixed feelings among staff members in your practice. Hear Dr. Ian Lane discuss how change management can help your practice cope with change and how to get implemented smoothly.
Aug 13, 2014 - Listen to the discussion and see if in-office finishing could be a game-changer for your practice.
Jul 30, 2014 - What does the research say about what patients want from your practice?
Jul 23, 2014 - Listen to our two guests the night before they go before the US Department of Justice to discuss some of the important issues and challenges facing OD’s around the US!
Jul 16, 2014 - Learn how new treatments of demodex are being used to greatly enhance patient’s quality of life and practices’ bottom lines.
Jul 09, 2014 - What should you look for in a consultant and how does their program work?
Aug 06, 2014 - Listen to the broadcast where John Carrier, long time industry veteran, takes calls from the listeners.
Jul 02, 2014 - Gary discusses his top six list of non-negotiable items you'll need to do in order to ensure your marketing initiatives. Some great advice on this show!
Jun 25, 2014 - Vision care has become a hotbed of invention and innovation over the last decade as more and more new technologies have disrupted the market. Join Gary Gerber as he interviews Ron and Frank about "The Future in Focus" event on September 16th at Vision Expo West and the burgeoning innovation that is coming to vision care.
Jun 18, 2014 - Energeyes is an association of corporate affiliated optometrists who will soon represent more than 11% of the optometrists in North America. At a time in optometry’s history when we need to me more united than ever before, is a separate association to the benefit of the profession?
Jun 11, 2014 - Local Eye Site believes that order to compete for the best talent in the marketplace, employers should view recruitment advertising for what it really is--advertising.
May 28, 2014 - www.eyenetra.com claims to be able to accurately measure refractive error and take a distance PD with a smart phone
May 21, 2014 - Find out how you can stack the prospective employee deck in your favor!
May 07, 2014 - How to (finally) get things done in your practice!
Apr 30, 2014 - Listen to this important show and hear an educators perspective on this important topic as well as other challenges facing optometrists.
Apr 23, 2014 - Learn the steps you should take to minimize theft and hear some case studies from other practices from an experienced forensic CPA.
Apr 16, 2014 - New technology will offer a "refraction only online eye exam" to "individuals in good health".
Apr 09, 2014 - Conversation about current challenges facing OD's. Jim Greenwood, Vision Source President and CEO, is a healthcare industry veteran with a wealth of information.
Apr 02, 2014 - Even if your plans to buy or sell aren’t in your short term future, you should still listen to this important broadcast because it really is never too early to plan for transitioning into or out of a practice!
Mar 29, 2014 - Discussions about competing with online retailers and game changing technology.
Mar 18, 2014 - Discussion about the new Superior Vision Contact Lens program with the CEO of ABB Optical Group.
Mar 12, 2014 - Discussion about current global trends in eyewear, internet dispensing, healthcare reform, the next generation of OD’s.
Mar 05, 2014 - There are many formulas bandied about to help you determine the value of your practice. Most of them are wrong!
Feb 26, 2014 - The acronyms MU2 and ICD 10 strike fear into the bravest optometrist. Fear of making expensive mistakes, government agency audits and staff mutiny are typical concerns.
Feb 19, 2014 - There is a lot of information floating around about the impact the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will have on optometry and how doctors should prepare for it. Unfortunately, much of that information runs the gamut from incomplete to flat out incorrect.
Feb 19, 2014 - Before you even commit to something like Facebook or Twitter, take a step back and examine your goals and target audience.
Feb 05, 2014 - Best practices in merchandising, pricing, and inventory management to establishing a winning culture.
Jan 29, 2014 - PC, Mac, Windows 8, wireless or wired, bring your computer questions to optometry's "computer guy" and get them answered. Always informative and entertaining, this will be a great show!
Jan 22, 2014 - In this hyper competitive environment, learn yet another innovative way to set your practice apart from the pack!
Jan 15, 2014 - Social Media wizard Alan Glazier, OD talks about innovative ways to use things like Twitter, Pinterest and of course Facebook to help build your practice.
Jan 08, 2014 - Regarded as a leading authority in ocular surface disease, Dr. Paul Karpecki kicks off the 2014 season of the Power Hour on January 8th.
Dec 18, 2013 - Adlens, the makers of variable focus eyewear join the show to discuss a different approach to multiple eyeglass sales as well as the technology used in their products.
Dec 11, 2013 - Get the straight scoop on all that's new at VSP including their new premier program, Obamacare and VSP Elements and any other topics you'd like to discuss.
Dec 03, 2013 - Learn how you can add this life changing modality to your practice.
Nov 20, 2013 - EMR billing and coding might never be the same.
Nov 13, 2013 - What should you look for in a consultant and how does their program work? Learn this and more on this important episode.
Nov 06, 2013 - The eight biggest doctor alliances and buying groups join the show and discuss the unique benefits of each of their groups. COGS savings, education and preparing for Obamacare - all on this special 1.5 hour show!
Oct 30, 2013 - The Sunshine Act is addressed by two industry veterans from Alcon and Vistakon.
Oct 23, 2013 - On this show, Zeavision, Macuhealth and Dr. Jerry Sherman take the gloves off and discuss which nutraceuticals are best for your patients.
Oct 16, 2013 - Clint Lewis, President of Zoetis joins the show and discussed the similarities between veterinary medicine and optometry
Oct 09, 2013 - EyeFinity President Steve Baker gives an EHR update
Oct 02, 2013 - What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing new OD's? Hear our special "live from Vision Expo West, Las Vegas!" show.
Sep 25, 2013 - Art is well known as an expert clinician, speaker and writer as well as the voice behind the industry's most widely read e-newsletter, "Optometric Physician."
Sep 18, 2013 - Are you liable if a patient refuses dilation? What's the best way to avoid an insurance company audit? Do HIPAA regulations allow you to email your patients? Optometrist/Attorney Craig Steinberg joins the show and answers these questions as well many others from our listeners.
Sep 11, 2013 - Hear Maureen Cavanagh give her opinions about the gender gap in optometry.
Sep 04, 2013 - PhD, polymer chemist and engineer Lynn Winterton joins the show to discuss these and other innovations in contact lenses.
Aug 28, 2013 - EyeMed's John Lahr, OD, Liz DiGiandomenico (President) and Greg Hare talk about their new business model and answer your questions about the new contract, why they are sending reminders to get an eye exam to your patients, billing medical vs. vision and lots of other important topics.
Aug 21, 2013 - Richard Hom, OD, and Vision Services President Jeff Spahr discuss coordination of care and the 1-800 benefit for WellPoint members.
Aug 14, 2013 - Think About Your Eyes - it's the biggest consumer campaign in eye care. Should you be a part of it? Listen and decide!
Aug 07, 2013 - Healthcare attorney Susan Orr joins the show and talks about what you need to know to protect yourself from what could literally put you out of business with a stroke of the pen.
Jul 31, 2013 - CEO of MODO frames, Pierre Fay, discusses techniques you can use to make your practice green, the size of the green market and why being green is a great way to position your practice.
Jul 24, 2013 - If you have any pictures on your website or Facebook page, you HAVE to listen to this episode.
Jul 17, 2013 - NFL Coach, Bill Davis, Defensive Coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles shares his secrets for building a great team, dealing with "irreplaceable" Prima Donnas and lots of other useful information you can use to build YOUR All Pro team!
Jul 10, 2013 - Gary shares his secrets for selling second pairs of glasses to 30% of your patients - with NO discounting!
Jun 26, 2013 - Cloud EHR and tech experts, Drs. Kim Castleberry and Lorie Lippiatt share their thoughts about the advantages to doctors, staff and patients of cloud based EHR's and unveil some brand new technology.
Jun 19, 2013 - Dr. Jerome Sherman joins the show and talks about OCT's, VEP's, ERG's, genetic testing and some very humbling OD related lawsuits. There is GREAT information for every doctor on this episode!
Jun 12, 2013 - What are contact lens companies doing to stimulate the long term anemic growth in the contact lens market? Why do we still deal with dropouts and what's being done to decrease them? Why aren't contact lenses perfect?
Jun 05, 2013 - What's the difference between a satisfied patient and a loyal one?
May 29, 2013 - Andrea Dorigo, president of Luxottica Wholesale (frames) North America, joins the next episode of the Power Hour. Luxottica is the biggest frame company on earth and Andrea joins us to discuss the company's history and direction since he's taken the helm. He also discusses his views on leadership, industry trends, Internet dispensing and of course, take questions from our callers.
May 22, 2013 - AllAboutVision.com co-founder Ron Walker talks about how consumers find and use eye related content on the Internet.
May 15, 2013 - Walt Mayo, OD and computer guru joins the show. He discusses operating systems, back up schemes, anti-virus software, Google glass as well as lots of other important topics.
May 08, 2013 - RevolutionEHR and Crystal Practice Management discuss meaningful use, cloud vs. server based software, customer service and support, data conversion and many other important topics. They also answer the question, "Why would I buy your software instead of the other guys?"
May 01, 2013 - Matt Geller, a fourth year SUNY Optometry student joins the show. Matt is the founder of OptometryStudents.com. As a "plugged in and e-wired" OD student, he'll share his unique perspectives on all things OD student related.
Apr 26, 2013 - Learn about Obamacare, ACA's, and ACO's during this live broadcast from the Vision Source Exchange!
Apr 17, 2013 - Professor Brien Holden joins the show calling in live from Australia. Brien discusses things like updates with myopia control contact lenses, bifocals, daily disposables, worldwide usage of contact lenses, and optometry in developing countries. Also, in a style that is uniquely his, he answers the question, "With all the research and development being done by the big contact lens companies, why aren’t contact lenses perfect?"
Apr 10, 2013 - Barry Tannen, OD, FCOVD has a huge and wildly profitable VT practice in New Jersey. He teaches practice management at SUNY Optometry and has consulted with other doctors on how to manage a thriving VT practice.
Apr 03, 2013 - Marge Axelrad from Vision Monday joins the show! As an editor and "industry insider," Marge shares her views and experience on current trends and challenges affecting OD practices.
Mar 19, 2014 - Don't get boxed out of healthcare reform!
Mar 27, 2013 - Dr. Alan Homestead, the Yoda of optometric billing and coding, discusses some of the best ways to survive an audit, common "gotchas" and gives some great tips to instantly boost your practice's bottom line.
Mar 16, 2013 - Bob Schultz from Vision One Credit Union and Dr. Howard Purcell from Essilor discuss challenges and opportunities for doctors transitioning into or out of a private practice.
Mar 06, 2013 - SEO, SMO, Web 2.0, Google +, Google Place, Facebook, Pinterest, Yelp - it's overwhelming UNTIL Jason Daniels talks about it and explains it in easy to understand English! Jason is an experienced web guru from Eyecarepro and has vast experience helping OD's navigate the online world.
Feb 27, 2013 - Known for their unique approach to customer service and being a great place to work, John Wolske, Cultural Evangelist from Zappos joins the show.
Feb 20, 2013 - David Friedfeld shares his unique thoughts on everything from where the industry is headed, frame inventorying and merchandising, real and perceived differences between designer brand frames, how private docs can compete with Internet eyeglasses as well as lots of other great information.
Feb 13, 2013 - Hear what Glen and Walt predict for the future of the industry and why they think doctors will struggle if they do NOT join an alliance.
Feb 06, 2013 - Industry veteran and special guest, Angel Alvarez, the CEO of ABB Optical Group, joins the show. He'll be giving his very insightful and thought provoking ideas on creative ways OD's can stay profitable and competitive.
Jan 23, 2013 - How does your practice confirm appointments, reach out to patients for things like recall and practice announcements? How do you manage and generate positive online reviews? The two industry leaders in this category discuss the importance of communicating with patients in our wired world and how their individual offerings compare.
Jan 16, 2013 - Cary Herzberg, OD, joins The Power Hour! Cary made the conscious decision to not accept ANY vision plans and lived to have a vibrant, healthy and profitable specialty contact lens practice. Learn the steps he took to make what many of us only dream about, his reality!
Jan 09, 2013 - Jim McGrann answers questions about decreasing reimbursements, Eyeconic, corporate out of network providers and a slew of other hot topics. Things really heat up on the Q&A session so make sure to listen to the whole show!
Jan 02, 2013 - Drs. Alan Glazier, Nathan Bonilla–Warford and Justin Bazan, three social media experts in their own right, discuss, debate and argue the merits of things like Yelp, Facebook and Google+ as well as whether you even need a web page at all and how to handle negative online reviews.
Dec 19, 2012 - Shake things up for the new year. Gary Gerber discusses his 5 top ways to positively disrupt the way your practice runs to ensure you have a more profitable year.
Dec 12, 2012 - LensCrafters founder, Dean Butler discusses the history of the company, where the industry is headed now and how OD's can compete with the Internet and our new economy.
Dec 05, 2012 - Listen to Mark Feder, OD (CEO of IDOC) and Michael Block (President of Block Buying Group) share their views and opinions.
Nov 21, 2012 - Howard Purcell, OD, Senior VP at Essilor, shares his thoughts about the future of the profession and goes in depth discussing technology in the dispensary and online eyeglasses.
Nov 14, 2012 - Bart Foster, CEO & Founder of SoloHealth is our guest and he'll be discussing his company's technology - which is scheduled to be in about 1,200 WalMart stores soon!
Nov 07, 2012 - Hurricane Sandy has done her damage. Learn disaster and contingency planning strategies for your practice. It doesn't take a significant weather event to put this plan into place. Tune in to hear how your practice might be at risk.
Oct 24, 2012 - What your plans to ensure you grow your practice next year? Learn how to create a budget and marketing plan.
Oct 17, 2012 - Publisher Frank Giamannco shares his unabashed views on the state of the profession.
Oct 10, 2012 - Well known Optician and educator Ed DeGennaro discusses e-optical tools, maximizing opticians in your practice, Internet eyeglasses and more.
Sep 26, 2012 - Dr. Alan Glazier discusses important social media strategies.
Sep 12, 2012 - Listen to the sometimes heated debate from your colleagues.
Sep 05, 2012 - When to bring in an associate and how to do it.
Aug 29, 2012 - All things social media with our special guest.
Aug 22, 2012 - Can your practice survive? "Something is better than nothing" may not be the case.
Aug 15, 2012 - Are we giving away eyeglass sales because of too much emphasis on medical eyecare?
Aug 08, 2012 - Listen to your colleagues discuss best and worst marketing ideas they have ever tried or thought about.
Aug 01, 2012 - Staff Management is the number one challenge for nearly every optometrist. Hear thoughts about hiring for personality vs. skill along with lots of other great advice.
Jul 25, 2012 - Are there too many optometrist and not enough patients?
Jul 18, 2012 - How do you see the future of optometry? Is the future so bright you gotta wear shades or so dim that we'll all need low vision soon?
