The Depth Perception Podcast

We sit down with Dr. Danielle Richardson to discus her inspiring journey from clinician to practice owner while navigating the challenges and rewards of motherhood. She shares the story behind opening her own practice, the obstacles she faced as an entrepreneur in healthcare, and the lessons she learned while building a patient-centered business from the ground up.

In this episode, we bring on special guest Chris Lopez with ODs on Finance. The group discusses optometry statistics as well as how to prepare your career as an optometrist financially. Join us to discuss real-world issues and how to thrive beyond the exam room.

Join Dr. Svetlana Nunez and Dr. Douglas Akidi as they dive into the world of pre-optometry, sharing personal stories and tips for acing your optometry school interview. Discover the passion behind their journey and get inspired to pursue your own path in optometry!

Finding your people in optometry school! From awkward first labs to lifelong friendships, how shared struggles, late-night studying, and clinic days turn classmates into your support system. Let's talk about building real connections in a high pressure program.

This episode, with special guest Dr. Alexa Hecht, delves into the hidden truths about owning and building a private practice. Join this episode to understand the behind-the-scenes work that goes on to provide optimal patient care.

Are you questioning whether private practice or corporate is better? Curious about how patient volume impacts your burnout and income? Or wondering if living close to family is worth sacrificing higher pay? This episode uncovers practical insights on practice type, patient load, location, and benefits, giving you the clarity to make strategic decisions aligned with your personal goals.

Presbyopia drops are now everywhere, but so are the misconceptions. In this MythBusters style episode, Mark Schaeffer, OD, FAAO, breaks down three of the most common concerns Optometrists have about Qlosi: safety and efficacy, when and how to bring it up with patients, and whether it hurts optical sales. Spoiler alert: the data (and real-world experience) tell a very different story. Learn how Qlosi fits seamlessly into modern optometric practice, and why waiting might be costing you more than you think.

In this episode from the Depth Perception podcast at Vision Expo West 2025, experts share real-life stories and practical tips for building genuine connections and negotiating contracts that align with your goals. Learn how to turn networking into your superpower and silence self-doubt while building a fulfilling career. Perfect for new grads and seasoned doctors alike, this episode offers the mental toolkit you didn’t learn in school. Tune in now to step into your full potential and create a career that fulfills your biggest dreams.

In this episode, the team discusses practical strategies for managing situations when you're unsure of the best course of action in patient care. From leveraging professional networks to honest communication, these insights help build confidence and patient trust during uncertain moments.

Join us as we navigate the 'Dog Days' of life, balancing career, family, and personal growth, and many more!

In this end-of-year podcast episode, the hosts reflect on their favorite moments from the past year, discuss impactful takeaways from their experiences at Vision Expo, and share their thoughts on future topics and guests. Cheers to 2026!

In this episode, the hosts discuss future roles of AI in the optometry world. They highlight how it can affect patient care and what new technology could be available for patients.

In this episode, optometrist and influencer Shaminder Dhaliwal (@dappereyedoc) shares his journey from Winnipeg to Edmonton, discussing the challenges of starting a private practice during the pandemic. Discover insights on networking, overcoming imposter syndrome, and balancing personal passions with professional life.

Dr. Vitto Mena talks about how he got started in sports vision and his work with Special Olympics. He shares why networking, financial literacy, and investing in yourself matter so much for young ODs. Dr. Mena also offers practical tips on managing money and explains how his interest in photography has helped him connect with others in the optometry world.

Join us on the Depth Perception Podcast as we explore the dual roles of optometrists as both healthcare providers and empathetic listeners. Discover how empathy and rapport can transform a routine eye exam into a meaningful experience.

🎙️ In this insightful episode, join your fave 4 young ODs as they share advice tailored for optometry students at every stage of their journey. 👓✨ From navigating the challenges of first year 📚, to mastering clinical skills in second year 🩺, embracing rotations in third year 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️, and preparing for the professional world in fourth year 💼—this episode is packed with practical tips and real-life stories.Whether you’re just starting out or getting ready to graduate 🎓, tune in for wisdom, encouragement, and a few laughs from those who’ve been there.#OptometryAdvice #StudentSuccess #FutureODs 👁️💡

In this episode of the Sleepover Podcast 🛌🎙️, the hosts create a cozy, relaxed vibe reminiscent of a sleepover. They chat about their daily activities and share their excitement for the upcoming Vision Expo 👓. The conversation naturally flows into their career aspirations, parenting challenges, and future goals, all with a lighthearted tone. Along the way, they reflect on personal experiences, share ghost stories 👻, and wrap up by exploring the balance between personal and professional lives, culminating in their plans for the next five years 🌟.

In this engaging convo 🎙️, the hosts delve into the intricacies of patient education in optometry 👓, exploring various refractive errors, astigmatism, cataracts, and glaucoma. They hype up the importance of role-playing patient scenarios to level up communication skills and set realistic expectations for patients 🧑‍⚕️. The discussion highlights the need for clear explanations personalized to individual patient needs, making sure they totally get their conditions and treatment options. The hosts also drop personal anecdotes and practical tips for effective patient interactions, making the convo both informative and relatable 💬.

🎙 In this episode of The Depth Perception Podcast, we’re keeping it real about the optometry grind from surviving board exams to staying hyped about the hustle 🔥, and how your overall health affects your vision 💡We’re answering your questions 💬, sharing our own ups and downs from opto school, and dropping helpful tips to help you level up. We’re also shedding light on what needs to change in the opto world 👀Whether you're a future eye doc or just eye-curious, this episode’s got you. Hit play now 👇Got something to say? Drop us an anonymous voicemail:https://www.speakpipe.com/TheDepthPerceptionPodcast

In this lively conversation 🎙️, the hosts explore the theme of alternate careers and personal aspirations, reflecting on what they might have pursued if not for their current profession in optometry 👓. They share humorous anecdotes 😂, discuss their creative side hustles, and highlight the importance of maintaining a balance between work and personal passions. The dialogue flows seamlessly from light-hearted banter about New York 🗽 to deeper reflections on career choices and future goals, culminating in a shared understanding of the value of balance in life. 🌟

In this episode, we’re unpacking the butterfly effect 🦋 —how even the smallest choices can completely change the direction of your life 🔄.We’re telling personal stories about how tiny, random moments ended up shaping our careers 💼 and relationships 💕 in big ways.It’s a reminder to stay open to the unexpected and to appreciate how the people around you 👥 can influence your path.Tune in and think twice about that “little” decision — it might just be the start of something major.Send your butterfly effect stories here: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheDepthPerceptionPodcast

🎙️ New Episode Drop! On this episode of the Deaf Perception Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Kristie Nguyen to talk all things LinkedIn, personal branding, and standing out in your professional space 💼✨Dr. Nguyen shares why she chose LinkedIn over other social platforms and how being consistent, authentic, and a little bit vulnerable can seriously level up your presence. She dives into her unique content strategy, her bold personal style 😎, and how she's built a strong network—especially within the optometry world 👁️From navigating pandemic-era opportunities to giving real talk advice for young professionals, Dr. Nguyen drops gems on building your brand, boosting visibility, and making meaningful connections 🤝Whether you're just getting started or ready to step up your LinkedIn game, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of Depth Perception Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Ryan Corte for an in-depth conversation about the transition from student to practicing optometrist 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️. Dr. Nadia Afkhami, Dr. Jasdeep Soni, Dr. Doug Akidi, and newly graduated Dr. Svetlana Nunez share their perspectives on navigating the early stages of an optometry career — including understanding contracts 📝, evaluating compensation 💸, managing student loan stress 🎓, and finding support through community 🤝. We also explore the path to practice ownership 🏢 and how podcasts like this one help share knowledge and real-world insights within the profession 🎙️.

In this convo 💬, the 4 amigos spill the tea 🍵 on their optometry school journey 👁️📚. They get real about the struggles 😮‍💨—from wild exams to the mental toll 😵‍💫—especially during the whole pandemic mess 😷. Expectations vs. reality? Total plot twist 🤯. They highlight how clutch community support was 💕🫂 and share their go-to ways to cope with stress 🧘‍♀️✨. From board exam chaos 📝 to the money talk 💸, it's all in there. It's a raw, relatable heart-to-heart full of lessons, feels, and advice for future opto students just tryna make it through 🔍🦋🎓.

Ready to land your dream job in optometry? In this episode, we’re breaking down the key moves you need to make it happen. From figuring out what really matters to you (spoiler: it’s not just the paycheck) to confidently negotiating offers and building connections that actually mean something — we’ve got you covered. We dive into why company vibes, personal growth, and overall job satisfaction should be on your radar, and how recruiters can be a game-changer in your search. Plus, we’re sharing our own real-world experiences to help you make smart, informed career choices.

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎨👩‍⚕️In this episode, we dive into the world of scrubs and colors in healthcare! From fav scrub shades to how colors impact patient vibes and trust, we cover it all. 👕💙 Plus, we chat about white coat syndrome and how it affects patient interactions. Tune in for key takeaways on confidence, professionalism, and making a lasting impression! 💡✨

In this engaging conversation, the hosts and guest Kristie Lin discuss her journey through optometry school, the importance of networking, personal growth through reading, and the value of building connections in the field. Kristie shares her experiences in teaching, her role in the Private Practice Club, and offers valuable advice for pre-optometry and first-year students. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities in private practice, as well as a mock interview segment that highlights the realities of applying to optometry school.

In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics related to optometry, including the impact of recent fires on their community, the transition to refraction-only practices, and the importance of patient education regarding eye health. They explore the evolving standard of care in optometry, the role of technology like OCT and Optos, and the challenges faced when patients decline dilation. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective communication and education to ensure patients understand the importance of comprehensive eye care. Resources: LA Fire COA Due Waiver: https://calopto.formstack.com/forms/waiverOptometry Fund for disaster relief: https://www.aoafoundation.org/our-programs/optometrys-fund-for-disaster-relief-(ofdr)?sso=yState Board of Optometry CE Waiver: https://www.optometry.ca.gov/formspubs/ce_exempt.pdf Visit Philanthropy California for vetted disaster relief funds: https://www.philanthropyca.org/2025-california-disaster-response

In this episode, the 4 amigos celebrate the launch of Season Three of their podcast, reflecting on their journey, personal growth, and the impact of their conversations. They discuss the importance of community engagement, their aspirations for the future, and the lessons learned throughout their experiences. The conversation highlights the significance of setting goals, both personally and for the podcast, as they look forward to making a greater impact in the coming year.

In this engaging conversation, Angela shares her extensive experience in the eye care industry, focusing on the importance of cultivating a positive workplace culture and etiquette. She discusses the dynamics of staffing and recruiting, especially in the context of the changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation also touches on practical advice for new graduates entering the workforce, the significance of understanding workplace culture, and strategies for successful job interviews. Angela emphasizes the need for alignment between personal values and workplace culture, and the importance of communication in fostering a supportive work environment.

The Depth Perception team speakers discuss the importance of building relationships between optometrists and (sales) representatives. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences, emphasizing the value of networking, collaboration, and mutual respect in the industry. The discussion also covers strategies for new optometrists to establish connections with reps, manage expectations, and navigate difficult relationships. The speakers highlight the benefits of staying updated with the latest products and fostering a supportive professional community.

In this episode, the hosts welcome Josh Reese, a fourth-year optometry student, to discuss the recent changes to the Part Three board exams. They explore the preparation process, the structure of the exam, and the differences between the old and new formats. The hosts share their personal experiences and reflections on the challenges and successes they faced during their own board exam preparations.

The Depth Perception Team is BACKK with Dr. Kimberly Castillo. Dr. Castillo shares her journey from a filmmaking background to becoming a prominent figure in optometry education. She discusses the motivation behind her widely-used study guide "The Castillo Book" as many of us call it, the challenges she faced in her own exam preparation, and the impact her book has had on students. Dr. Castillo also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of feedback from students and medical providers, and her plans for future projects, including a new book for part one of the NBEO optometry exam.

Dr. Darryl Glover, an optometrist and co-founder of Defocus Media and Black Eye Care Perspective, joins the podcast to discuss his background and the importance of diversity in the optometry industry. He shares how he got started in eye care and the moment that solidified his passion for the profession. Dr. Glover also talks about the birth of Defocus Media and its mission to provide authentic dialogue and positivity in the field. He highlights the importance of personal branding and offers advice for young optometrists and students.

This podcast conversation covers the topic of speaking up in various contexts, including work, negotiations, and advocacy. It emphasizes the importance of speaking up for oneself and the profession, providing practical advice and personal experiences. We share insights on negotiation strategies, the power of manifesting, and the need for diversity and equality in the profession. The conversation also touches on the challenges of speaking up and the importance of planning and confidence.

In this conversation, Dr. Joshua Davidson discusses his background in optometry, his passion for dry eye treatments, and he highlights the importance of finding passion in both work and life. Dr. Davidson also talks about his love for speaking and writing in the optometry field. In this conversation, Dr. Josh Davidson shares his experiences and insights as an optometrist and entrepreneur. He discusses how he balances his career and personal life, the importance of surrounding yourself with fun and supportive people, and the joy of pursuing projects that are enjoyable. He emphasizes the need for personal growth and staying open to new ideas and opportunities. Don't miss out and check out this conversation with Dr. Davidson.

Dr. Melissa Gray shares her experience of being a mother while pursuing optometry school and practicing as an optometrist. She discusses the challenges she faced and the support system she had in place. Dr. Gray emphasizes the importance of motivation and the extra drive that comes from being a parent. Dr. Gray's story serves as an inspiration for others who are juggling parenthood and professional aspirations. In this conversation, Melissa Gray discusses her experience of being pregnant while working in a clinic. She shares her challenges and how she managed to balance her responsibilities. Melissa also provides advice for other mothers considering pursuing higher education while raising a child. The conversation ends with a heartfelt discussion about the importance of mothers and the lessons learned from them. Keywords: motherhood, optometry school, practicing optometrist, challenges, support system, motivation, positive impact, pediatrics, inspiration, pregnancy, clinic, education, balance, challenges, advice, mothers

In this conversation, the hosts discuss 'Generations'. The hosts identify their generational identities and they explore the differences between generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, in terms of communication styles, learning methods, and work values. The hosts discuss how younger generations have grown up with technology and readily available information, which has shaped their approach to learning and problem-solving. They also touch on the importance of mental health and work-life balance for millennials and Gen Z. The conversation highlights the clash between traditional and progressive mindsets in the workplace and the need for open-mindedness and empathy when working with different generations.

In this conversation, Colton Calandrella, CEO of Barti Software, discusses the importance of finding the right Electronic Health Record (EHR) system for optometry practices. The conversation revolves around the analogy of dating, with the EHR being compared to a long-term partner. The main themes include the criteria for swiping right on an EHR, such as user-friendliness, cloud-based accessibility, and comprehensive features. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating different EHR systems and the importance of minimizing clicks for a more efficient workflow. In this conversation, Colton Calandrella discusses the importance of finding an EHR system that clicks with your practice. He emphasizes the need to prioritize the number of clicks required to perform tasks, as well as the ability to customize the system to meet your specific needs. Colton also highlights the value of AI transcription in reducing clicks and automating note-taking. He advises practitioners to have a list of non-negotiables when evaluating EHR systems and to test drive the software before making a commitment. Additionally, he discusses the importance of staff buy-in and integration with other technologies. Click the link below to set up your appointment with Barti to learn more and get 20% off your first-year contract! https://bartisoftware.orromeo.com/calendar/team/t/15

Dr. Harbir Sian joined the pod to discuss his experience in eyecare and to discuss the steps that led to his success. From his time discovering what career to pursue to his role in his Punjabi association in college he discusses the steps he took to lead him to where he is today. Habir shares how to be a speaker, how to get into business, finding a subspecialty, dealing with imposter syndrome, building confidence, time management, how to balance having a family and finances.  Be sure to listen and check out the full episode. You won’t regret it.

Guys...this might be the best podcast by The Depth Perception Team yet! Join us as we talk about women and men's experiences in optometry from salaries, experiences, work-life balance, confidence, dating, and more! It was truly a battle of the sexes. Let us know if you enjoyed this episode! See you in 2 weeks :)

Our first “Emerge and See” (Emergency, do you get it?) podcast episode is on the recent NEBO Boards (Part 1) scores hot topic. We will go over our own boards experiences, previous prices, and our thoughts on the subject in the this episode!

This week on the podcast, the team discusses how they go about making goals for 2024. We go over our goals, values, stretch goals and long term goals. To learn more, listen to our full talk! Happy 2024!

Join us for a laid-back reflection on the past year and a sneak peek into what's coming in 2024. We revisit our favorite podcast moments, share behind-the-scenes stories, and dive into the episodes that defined 2023. Whether you've been with us from the start or just tuning in, let's rewind, reminisce, and get excited for what's next! Subscribe now for a chill chat and a preview of the vibe coming your way in 2024!! Love, The Depth Perception Team

In this week’s episode, the depth perception team discusses the dynamics of maintaining professional relationships with staff, navigating friendships in school and clinic, and handling difficult relationships in the office. Some takeaways were: 1. Establish clear boundaries and communicate expectations in professional relationships with staff. 2. Maintain professionalism while fostering friendships in school and clinic. 3. Handle difficult relationships in the office by open communication and showing appreciation. To learn more, listen to our full talk below. 

From attending Western University to starting his own private practice in Beverly Hills, it took time and effort for Dr. Silani to find his calling in eyecare.  Dr. Silani suffered from dry eyes and started seeing the need for care with his own patients so he decided to make it his focus for his career. He started making waves by letting other patients, providers and companies know about his focus.  Dr. Silani strives to create a luxurious experience with his patients by spending more time with them, getting to know them on a level where he can even discuss his personal life and following up with them at least on a quarterly basis. He even created an Instagram wall for patients to take photos on their visits to enhance their experience.  Overall Dr. Silani’s goal is to leave the world in a better place than when he started and he is absolutely doing this through his work in the dry eye space.  To learn more about Dr. Silani, on dry eyes or about how to find your niche in eyecare then you will absolutely want to listen to this podcast. 

Welcome back! The team is gathered in person, diving into Twitter posts that hilariously capture the essence of optometry life. Join us for a dose of laughter with #OptometrSchoolProblems, #OptometristProblems and #GlassesProblems. If you're in need of a good laugh, this episode is made for you!

As an optometrist, managing your finances is as crucial as caring for your patients' eye health. In this podcast, we dive deep into the financial aspects that matter most to optometrists, whether you're a student, recent graduate, or seasoned professional. Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge and strategies to make informed financial decisions that can pave the way for a secure and prosperous future. We explore a multitude of topics, including: 1. Budgeting: Learn how to create a budget that aligns with your lifestyle, savings goals, and financial aspirations. 2. Savings: Discover the power of saving for emergencies, opportunities, and long-term financial security. 3. Investing: Delve into the world of investments, understanding different options, risk management, and building wealth. 4. Retirement Plans: Get insights into 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement planning tools that will ensure you retire with peace of mind. 5. Student Loans: We tackle the challenges of managing student loan debt, from repayment strategies to loan forgiveness programs. 6. Credit Cards: Understand the responsible use of credit cards, including rewards, interest rates, and debt management. 7. Credit Scores: Learn how your credit score affects your financial life and the steps to build and maintain a strong credit profile. 8. Interest Rates: We break down the complexities of interest rates, from credit cards to mortgages, so you can make the best financial decisions. Tune in, and together we'll embark on a journey towards financial stability and success in the world of optometry.

👁️🤖✨ Join us as we delve into the future of optometry with Dr. Fayiz Mahgoub, exploring the incredible ways AI is revolutionizing eye care. Get ready to see the world through a new lens! #AIinOptometry #EyesOnTheFuture #PodcastAdventures

Angelica Cifuentes joined the podcast to discuss her life as a practicing doctor, as the co-founder of ByDryEyes and about her journey into Optometry. From starting a business to her journey as an immigrant Dr. Cifuentes shares her unique path and where she looks to continue making her mark in the field of Optometry