The Myopia Mindset

This month’s Myopia News Monthly brings Dr. Andrew Brauer and Dr. Priscilla Chang to the table for three stories — and one genuine disagreement.SUBSCRIBE ON SUBSTACKGet the rundown, links to articles, weekly newsletter, bonus content, and the video version of every podcast.https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

For all the noise around artificial intelligence, the most useful question for a myopia practice isn’t “Will this replace me?” It’s “Can this help me do the work I already know I should be doing?”That’s the premise of this week’s episode. I sat down with my friend Louise Curcio — a fractional marketing director with a focus on AI-augmented marketing, and formerly the director of myopia management marketing at CooperVision — to walk through a practical list of marketing moves for the myopia practice. None of these are exotic. Most are fundamentals that strong practices have used for years. What’s changed is that AI now makes each one faster, cheaper, and easier to execute, often in the time it takes to listen to this episode.Contact Louise Curcio on LinkedinPodcast + Newsletter + Bonus Content on our Substack

Welcome back to Myopia News Monthly, where we cover the top stories in the myopia management industry so you can grow organically into the expert you were always meant to be.This month’s panel: returning guests Dr. Andrew Brauer, Dr. Cary Herzberg, and Josh Martinez of Doctor’s Own Design/Aurora GP Lab, Inc.+ SUBSTACK - Full Episodes + Bonus Content + Weekly ArticlesThis Month’s Stories1. HHS and the Surgeon General issue a warning on children’s screen use.2. The FDA rejects Sydnexis’ SYD-101 — despite the STAR trial meeting its primary endpoint.3. Hoya’s MiYOSMART iQ posts some of the strongest myopia control data ever reported.

Optometrists haven’t gotten a real raise in 20 to 30 years. Vision care plans are paying a fraction of what exams are worth — and the doctor is covering the overhead, the staff time, the insurance admin, and the billing. The plans cover none of it. They are, as Dr. Cary Herzberg puts it, living rent-free in your practice. Become a subscriber on our substack = full episodes + newsletter + bonus content: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/ This week, I sat down with my father — Dr. Cary Herzberg, 40+ years in specialty optometry, myopia management pioneer, and one of the people who has been trying to solve this problem since before most of us were paying attention — to have a conversation about the biggest threat facing the profession right now. We talk about why the burnout epidemic is structural, not personal. Why the best residents are doing the math and reconsidering. And what it actually looks like — practically, step by step — to build a specialty practice that doesn’t depend on being a human assembly line. This isn’t a theoretical conversation. Cary lived it. He dropped insurance, lost 80% of his patients overnight, and rebuilt around specialty care. What he found on the other side is what this episode is about. In this episode: — Why vision care plans made sense in 1985 and are a trap in 2025 — The 80/20 revelation: less than 20% of the practice was generating 80% of revenue — How to grow a specialty practice alongside your current patient base — without pulling the band-aid off — Why your specialty day has to be a sacred space (and what happens when it isn’t) — The future of optometry: board certification, OD-to-OD referrals, and the 50–100% scope expansion nobody’s talking about

Get the video podcast, a weekly article, and exclusive bonus content on Substack: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/Building a myopia management referral network sounds simple on paper: introduce yourself, explain what you do, and ask other ODs to send you their myopic kids. In practice, it's a grind — cold calls that go nowhere, front desks that don't pass the message, colleagues who don't see myopia management as standard of care yet, and doors that get slammed, sometimes multiple times in a row.Dr. Marie Palladino has been through all of it. In this bonus segment, she shares the unfiltered version of how she built her referral base from zero — including what she brought to offices (food helps), what she said to convince ODs she wasn't going to poach their patients, and how she used the mutual-referral framework (offering to take their glaucoma or dry-eye cases in exchange) to turn a one-sided ask into a real partnership.She also gets into the mindset side: how she stayed motivated through repeated rejection, why she shoots for small wins instead of big asks, and the personal connection strategy she used to open doors that the myopia conversation couldn't open alone.If you're trying to grow a referral pipeline — or you've already tried and hit a wall — this is the conversation you needed to hear.

Every month there’s more happening in myopia management than any one clinician can keep up with — new studies, new products, new debates. That’s exactly why we built this series.In this episode, I sit down with two practitioners who’ve been in the trenches of myopia management: Dr. Andrew Brauer of Eye Care Center of DuPage and Dr. Cary Herzberg, with 40+ years of myopia management experience. We go through the five most important stories from Q1 2026 — and we don’t hold back on the disagreements.🎙️ Full episode + subscriber bonus: https://myopiamindset.substack.com 📧 Subscribe for weekly episodes, articles, and exclusive bonus contentIn this episode:LAMP Study (8-year follow-up): The data is in — tapering atropine before stopping leads to less rebound than abrupt cessation. But is a quarter-diopter reduction enough to change how you manage discontinuation? And should we even be framing myopia management as something that ends? | Eight-Year Results of the LAMP Randomized Clinical Trialhttps://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/article-abstract/2846905Essilor Stellest 2.0: More plus, potentially twice the efficacy of the original. Andrew raises the concern nobody wants to say out loud about spectacle-only practices. | Next-Generation Spectacle Lens Aims to Strengthen Myopia Control in Childrenhttps://theophthalmologist.com/issues/2026/articles/march/next-generation-spectacle-lens-aims-to-strengthen-myopia-control-in-children/Contrast Theory of Myopia: Dr. Ashley Tucker’s piece in Review of Myopia Management ties color vision research to myopic defocus. Is this a new mechanism — or just a new way of describing the one we already know? | When Color Vision Research Meets Myopia Controlhttps://reviewofmm.com/when-color-vision-research-meets-myopia-control/Sight Glass DOT Lenses at NCC 2026: New data, 20% African American representation in the study, and the astigmatism question finally answered. | SightGlass Vision Presents Latest Findings on DOT Spectacles at NCC 2026https://reviewofmm.com/sightglass-vision-presents-latest-findings-on-dot-spectacles-at-ncc-2026/European Delphi Consensus: Should myopia be classified as a progressive disease? Some colleagues still push back. Andrew and Cary explain why it’s not a question worth arguing. | Consensus on Evidence Gaps and Unmet Needs in Childhood Myopiahttps://reviewofmm.com/consensus-on-evidence-gaps-and-unmet-needs-in-childhood-myopia/Whether you’re deep into myopia management or just building your program, this panel is your monthly check-in.🎧 Listen now — and if you’re a paid subscriber, stay tuned for the bonus segment coming later this week. https://myopiamindset.substack.comThe Myopia Mindset is a weekly podcast for optometrists, ophthalmologists, and eyecare professionals devoted to myopia management. New episodes every week.

It’s Myopia Awareness Week — and we’re releasing the bluntest episode we’ve ever recorded.Awareness weeks tend to be glossy. This one isn’t. Dr. Cary Herzberg has been doing this work for forty-five years, and Part 2 of our panel opens with him asking a question that should sit uncomfortably with the profession: it’s 2026, we have FDA-approved tools, and we’re still trying to convince colleagues to start. What happened to those forty years?We had to split this conversation in two. Part 1 was the toolbox. This is the part that got real.In Part 2, Dr. Cary Herzberg lays down four decades of frustration: optometry has had the data, the products, and the patients in the chair since the early 1980s — and is still, in 2026, asking how to get colleagues to start. Dr. David Ng counters with a hopeful sign — parents are now walking into exams asking, unprompted, about their child’s hyperopic reserve. Then he drops a warning that should get every U.S. ECP’s attention: counterfeit “myopia” spectacle lenses are already showing up in Canadian opticals at $100 a pop, with no efficacy data and unidentifiable origin.Inside this episode: – Cary on what optometry has gotten wrong since the 1980s genetics-only era — and what he thinks “real” board certification in myopia would look like – Dave’s red-flag report on counterfeit myopia spectacle lenses showing up in Canada (and why he expects it in the U.S.) – Dr. Jennifer Lyerly on a 2022 Vision Monday survey claim that 70% of U.S. ODs were “doing myopia management” — most of them, somehow, with progressives – The structural problems: 15-minute exam slots, PE-backed practices, debt-loaded new grads, and the national boards as a curriculum gatekeeper – Why ODs still don’t refer to other ODs — and what the AAOMC’s brand-new P2P program is trying to do about it – The closing trio of pitches to new grads: Jennifer’s compassion frame, Dave’s “come spend a day with me,” and Cary’s Newton Wesley line — make a legend of yourselfIf you missed Part 1, start there — we walk through the modalities, the data, and the “where do I even start” question. This is the follow-up.If this episode hit, share it. Myopia Awareness Week is the one week of the year a non-clinical friend or family member might actually click on something like this. Forward it to a parent. Send it to the OD you know who's been "thinking about getting into myopia management" for three years.

Twenty years ago, the myopia toolbox had one drawer: ortho-K. Today, U.S. optometrists have FDA-approved soft contacts, an approved spectacle lens, off-label low-dose atropine, and a steady drip of next-generation options coming through Health Canada first. So how do you actually decide what to put a kid in?In Part 1 of this two-part panel, Matthew sits down with Dr. Jennifer Lyerly (True Vision Eye Care, Defocus Media), Dr. David Ng (Bayview Vision Care & The Myopia Clinic, AAOMC board member), and Dr. Cary Herzberg (co-founder and past president, AAOMC) to walk through the modern myopia toolbox in real, chair-side terms.What’s inside this episode: – How each panelist actually decides between MiSight, ortho-K, atropine, and Stellest based on lifestyle, age, and progression – The new MiSight IQ data David is watching — and the 100%-control claim coming out of a Malaysian ortho-K + red-light cohort – Why Jennifer says you do not need axial length to get started, and which single piece of equipment actually is non-negotiable (hint: only one modality requires it) – A real cautionary story from a state board complaint filed against an OD who never mentioned myopia management – Cary’s “throw the gauntlet down” pitch for SYD-101 and the case for moving from myopia management to myopia preventionPart 2 drops next week — that’s where things get heated. Becomes a Subscriber on Substack: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

A Texas ophthalmologist sits down to explain the lifetime risks of myopia to a 6-year-old's mom — and mid-sentence realizes the mom, still in her 20s, has already had retinal detachments in both eyes from her own untreated nearsightedness.That's the gap this episode is about: the gap between what we know myopia does to people, and what the FDA's drug division decided was "not clinically meaningful" when it rejected SYD-101 — Sydnexis's stable, low-dose atropine drop — last fall.Dr. Cary Herzberg, a 40-plus-year ortho-K/myopia management pioneer, walks through the STAR study, the fast-progressor data Sydnexis dropped at AAPOS, and why a drug that's approved in Europe is still locked out of American practices.We get into how the FDA's own request to add older patients dragged the headline numbers down, what 47.9% / 37.6% / 28.0% actually means for a kid, and what an everyday optometrist, ophthalmologist, or parent can do this week to push back.What We Cover In This Episode:Sydnexis & SYD-101 — the company and the 0.01% low-dose atropine drop that this episode is about. https://sydnexis.com/Sydnexis Press Release Data Presented At AAPOS — https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260323823740/en/Sydnexis-Announces-New-Data-from-Phase-3-STAR-Trial-of-SYD-101-Presented-at-2026-AAPOS-Annual-MeetingThe STAR study — Sydnexis’s 3-year, 847-patient pediatric myopia trial across the U.S. and Europe. https://sydnexis.com/resource/evidence-from-the-star-study-a-novel-low-dose-atropine-eye-drop-slows-the-progression-of-pediatric-myopia/https://iovs.arvojournals.org/article.aspx?articleid=2804883Washington Post article — A drug for myopia could help millions of kids. The FDA is keeping it off the shelves (by David G. Hunter) https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2026/02/10/fda-myopia-drug-trial/Inside Health Policy article — Pediatric Myopia Drug is Latest In String of Unexpected FDA Rejections (by Jessica Karins) https://insidehealthpolicy.com/inside-drug-pricing-daily-news/pediatric-myopia-drug-latest-string-unexpected-fda-rejectionsAmerican Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS)— https://www.aapos.org/homeThe LAMP study — https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30514630/Stellest spectacle lenses — https://www.essilorluxottica.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/essilor-stellest-fda/American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (AAOMC) —https://aaomc.org/Petition to classify pediatric progressive myopia as a disease — Urgent Call for U.S. Children to Have Access to an FDA-Approved Low-Dose Atropinehttps://www.change.org/p/urgent-call-for-u-s-children-to-have-access-to-an-fda-approved-low-dose-atropine-68d0a62c-8058-48bb-ab09-9c586d3a3ff6?recruiter=1397201700&recruited_by_id=25f73080-d542-11f0-94d3-2b1ed6b14439&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=petition_dashboard&utm_medium=copylinkWHO projection — https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/02/160217113308.htm

What does it look like to build a full-spectrum myopia management program inside one of the country’s top pediatric hospitals — and what can every optometrist learn from it?🔗 Subscribe on Substack - video podcasts + articles + exclusive bonus content📸 Instagram / TikTok / Linkedin - connect + daily insights In Part 1 of this special episode of the Myopia Mindset podcast, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with Drs. Magda Stec, Noreen Shaikh, and Shelby Johnson from the ophthalmology division at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital in Chicago.The doctors take us inside a program that’s been building for nearly eight years — starting with low-concentration atropine and evolving into a full toolbox that includes MiSight, Ortho-K, Biofinity toric multifocal, and now FDA-approved Stellest lenses.You’ll hear how Lurie’s philosophy of offering myopia management to every patient — including those on public aid — came together, and how the division created a collaborative culture where ophthalmologists, optometrists, nurses, and pediatricians all speak the same language. The panel also covers what a solid baseline workup looks like, how to approach pediatricians for cross-referrals, and how they navigate the conversion conversation with parents in a time-efficient way.If this episode fires you up about myopia management, subscribe — Part 2 drops soon and covers confidence-building, staff training, and whether Stellest glasses will finally blow open the category for optometrists everywhere.

Support us on Substack for the full episode here: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/Knowing the benefits of Ortho-K is one thing but getting parents to understand and say yes is another.In Part 2 of this Myopia Mindset podcast conversation, Dr. Matthew Martin, Dr. Leah Johnson, and Dr. Cary Herzberg dive into how to communicate Ortho-K effectively to parents, bridging the gap between clinical knowledge and real-world decision-making.This is where many practices struggle, not because Ortho-K doesn’t work, but because the message isn’t landing. In Part 2, we cover:How to frame Ortho-K in a way parents immediately understandThe biggest communication mistakes doctors makeHow to simplify complex concepts like myopia progressionPositioning Ortho-K as a necessity, not a luxuryBuilding trust and confidence during the consultIf you’ve ever had a parent hesitate or say no; this podcast episode focuses on how optometrists can communicate the value of orthokeratology to parents, improve patient acceptance, and increase success in myopia management through better consultation strategies.How do you engage your parents and increase conversions in your practice? Let us know in the comments!

In this episode of the Myopia Mindset, Matthew Herzberg is joined by Dr. Matthew Martin, Dr. Leah Johnson, and Dr. Cary Herzberg to break down the all of the benefits of Ortho-K and why they resonate so strongly with parents when communicated effectively.Support Myopia Mindset Podcast on Substack for full episodes and bonus content: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/From daytime freedom from glasses to long-term eye health and myopia control, this conversation focuses on what actually matters to families—and how to position Ortho-K as more than just “another option.”In Part 1, we cover:The biggest lifestyle benefits of Ortho-K for kidsHow freedom from glasses and contacts impacts confidence and activitiesThe long-term health benefits of myopia controlWhy parents don’t always recognize these benefits right awayThe gap between clinical value and perceived valueOrthokeratology isn’t just a treatment—it’s a life-changing solution for kids and their families. This video explains the benefits of orthokeratology (Ortho-K) for children and how it helps with myopia management. It focuses on lifestyle advantages, long-term eye health, and why parents choose Ortho-K over other myopia management treatments.

Looking for more Myopia Mindset? Subscribe on our Substack for full episodes and bonus content: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/Welcome back to The Myopia Mindset! In Part 2 of this Ortho-K deep dive, Matthew Herzberg and Dr. Cary Herzberg continue their conversation on what truly drives success in orthokeratology and why most fitters struggle to reach consistent outcomes.This episode shifts from foundational concepts into real clinical application. The discussion focuses on common pitfalls, including inaccurate measurements, poor diameter selection, limited topography data, and misunderstanding lens design precision. Dr. Herzberg emphasizes that Ortho-K is not something you can casually implement. It requires commitment, attention to detail, and a willingness to continuously refine your approach.A major highlight of this episode is a clear and practical breakdown of Jessen Factor, what it is, how it works, and why it plays a critical role in effective myopia management. The conversation challenges common fears around overcorrection and explains how increasing treatment effect can actually improve outcomes when applied correctly.You will also learn how to troubleshoot difficult cases by working through the “usual suspects,” why 80 percent of fits can succeed even when imperfect, and how to close the gap on the remaining 20 percent that define true expertise.Beyond technique, this episode reinforces a mindset shift. Great Ortho-K outcomes come from precision, repetition, and ownership of the process, not shortcuts or overreliance on software. If you want to elevate your results and build confidence in complex cases, this episode delivers a practical framework you can apply immediately.

Looking for more Myopia Mindset? Consider becoming a subscriber on our substack: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with industry pioneer Dr. Cary Herzberg to break down some of the most overlooked drivers of orthokeratology success, the fundamentals that many fitters miss.While many practitioners focus on surface level metrics, this conversation goes deeper into the why behind successful Ortho-K outcomes. The discussion covers key concepts such as corneal volume, HVID, diameter selection, eccentricity, and overall corneal shape. Dr. Herzberg shares decades of clinical insight, explaining how these variables interact and why even low myopia cases can sometimes be more challenging than higher prescriptions.You will also hear the origin story behind important Ortho-K principles, including the role of hydraulic forces, the evolution of lens design, and how modern approaches have improved outcomes. More importantly, this episode emphasizes the mindset shift required to truly master Ortho-K by moving away from total reliance on labs and toward developing strong clinical intuition and problem solving skills.If you have ever struggled with inconsistent results, confusing fits, or cases that should have worked but did not, this episode provides a clearer framework for evaluating and approaching your patients.This is Part 1 of a deeper series on Ortho-K success, so be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for what comes next.

Support us on Substack for the full episode: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/Once clinicians move past the initial learning curve, myopia management can transform both a practice and a career.In Part 2 of this discussion, Dr. Christine Yeung explores how doctors build thriving myopia management programs and the unexpected rewards that come with it. From difficult cases that ultimately succeed to the powerful impact of patient referrals, myopia management often grows into a defining part of a practice.

Become a Subscriber on our Substack - https://myopiamindset.substack.com/Myopia management can feel intimidating when you first start. Many clinicians worry about complex prescriptions, difficult lens designs, and whether the treatment will even work.In Part 1 of this conversation, Dr. Christine Yeung shares her early journey into myopia management and orthokeratology, including the steep learning curve that many doctors experience before they gain confidence. What initially feels impossible often becomes routine with experience.Become a Subscriber - https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

If we could genetically predict myopia progression… would you test every patient?BECOME A SUPPORTER TO GET THE FULL EPISODE: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

Can ortho-k really be “easy” — or are we skipping the fundamentals?BECOME A SUPPORTER FOR THE FULL EPISODEhttps://myopiamindset.substack.com/

🌟 Want the full episode? Become a paid supporter of The Myopia Mindset and unlock full episodes + monthly bonus content: 👉 https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

Most doctors stop at corneal ortho-k.This episode starts where that comfort zone ends.In Part 1 of this two-part series, host Matthew Herzberg is joined by Dr. Anith Pillai and Dr. Matthew Martin to break down trans-limbal ortho-k—what it is, what it is not, and why it’s quietly transforming how experienced clinicians approach adult, hyperopic, and high-challenge cases.In Part 1, we cover:What “trans-limbal” actually means—and why the distinction mattersWhy larger diameters improve centration and comfort, particularly in adultsHow lens mass and design give you more control over tissue manipulationWhy this approach is off-label—and how experienced doctors manage expectations without fearThe types of patients who benefit most (and who absolutely should not be fit)

In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg is joined by Dr. Ashley Tucker and Dr. Kevin Chan, co-editors of Review of Myopia Management, to break down the most important myopia management stories of 2025.From evolving clinical protocols and risk stratification models, to emerging insights into retinal neurotransmitters, dopamine pathways, and evidence-based patient communication, this episode is designed to help optometrists stay ahead of where myopia care is going — not where it’s been.If you want to grow into a confident, evidence-driven myopia management expert, this episode provides the context, nuance, and clinical relevance that matter most.The Articles discussed in this episode are from Review of Myopia Management1. https://reviewofmm.com/the-proliferation-of-myopia-management-spectacles2. https://reviewofmm.com/how-to-manage-progressive-myopia-in-young-adults3.https://reviewofmm.com/comparison-of-performance-of-myopia-control-spectacles-in-european-children4. https://reviewofmm.com/the-latest-in-red-light-therapy5. https://reviewofmm.com/retinal-neurotransmitter-systems-in-myopia-understanding-the-role-of-dopamine-and-related-pathways6. https://reviewofmm.com/the-lipson-koffler-myopia-management-treatment-protocol7. https://reviewofmm.com/20-20-20-rule/8. https://reviewofmm.com/a-wake-up-call-regulatory-changes-for-red-light-therapy-china9. https://reviewofmm.com/now-what-turning-essilors-stellest-approval-into-action/10. https://reviewofmm.com/the-economics-of-myopia-management-2/

In this episode of Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg brings together a panel of leading voices in myopia management to tackle one of the most difficult—and most important—topics in pediatric care: visual hygiene.Become a supporter to get the full episode: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

An 11-year longitudinal study doesn’t just confirm the clinical value of orthokeratology—it explicitly acknowledges the real-world impact of myopia on productivity, lifestyle, and life trajectory.🌟 Want the full episode? Become a paid supporter of The Myopia Mindset and unlock full episodes + monthly bonus content: 👉 https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

Myopia isn’t a clinician-only problem. And it isn’t an industry-only solution. This episode explores why solving myopia requires everyone at the table. Myopia is accelerating globally — and no single group can solve it alone. In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with a Tony Sommer for an honest, clinician-first conversation about what “all hands on deck” really means in myopia care.

Post-LASIK corneas demand different rules — and most failures happen before the lens is ever ordered. In this essential edition episode of Myopia Mindset, the focus is squarely on Post-LASIK Ortho-K — and why these cases fail long before lens design ever begins.🌟 Want the full episode? Become a paid supporter of The Myopia Mindset and unlock full episodes + monthly bonus content: 👉 https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

What really determines success—or failure—in orthokeratology? In this Q&A section from the episode - Orthokeratology Fundamentals: "Diameter, Design & Myopia Control | Expert Roundtable" of the Myopia Mindset. Host Matthew Herzberg is joined by global leaders in myopia management and orthokeratology to break down the most overlooked elements of ortho-k lens design.🌟 Want the full episode? Become a paid supporter of The Myopia Mindset and unlock full episodes + monthly bonus content: 👉 https://myopiamindset.substack.com/

Welcome back to The Myopia Mindset, your weekly check-in for motivation, education, and inspiration on your path to success with myopia management. Hosted by Matthew Herzberg, this episode features two rising stars in the myopia world: Dr. Zachary Holland and Dr. Joelle Holland. You may have seen them speak at Vision by Design, where their shared lecture showcased two unique practice styles, two different fitting philosophies, and one shared mission: transform the landscape of myopia management.SUPPORT THE PODCAST Get early episodes, extended interviews, and exclusive monthly bonus content: https://www.myopiamindset.com/

Optometry and ophthalmology have a complicated past — but the future looks completely different. Recently both optometry (via the AAOMC) and ophthalmology (via AAPOS) have vocalized public positions on managing pediatric progressive myopia. In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with two leaders shaping that future: Dr. Cheryl Chapman, orthokeratologist, myopia specialist, Past President of AAOMC Dr. Brandon Baartman, board-certified ophthalmologist at Vance Thompson Vision This conversation was inspired by Brandon’s lectures at Vision by Design 2024, where Matthew realized just how far the OD–MD relationship has evolved. Together, Cheryl and Brandon unpack: Why ophthalmology historically ignored (or even dismissed) myopia management What’s changing — and why younger MDs think differently How Cheryl and Brandon built their own interdisciplinary referral partnership Why orthokeratology is no longer “snake oil” to MDs How ODs can confidently approach ophthalmologists to build relationships There is no shortage of myopic patients, but there is a shortage of strong OD–MD relationships. If we’re going to slow the global rise of myopia, everyone in eyecare needs to work together.

There is a mandatory visual element to this episode, check out the YouTube version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78kOOo2iZCgLearn how ethnicity, age, environment, and axial length all play critical roles in predicting progression—and why sometimes the most important choice is knowing when not to treat. In this special “lecture-style” episode, series regular Dr. Matthew Martin walks through The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly of real-world myopia management. From early onset cases to long-term ortho-k outcomes, he covers: 🔹 Case 1: “Mini-Me” – A 6-year-old with early risk factors. When should you start? 🔹 Case 2: “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” – An 11-year-old who stopped orthok and ended up with less myopia. How? 🔹 Case 3: “It’s Raining Cats and Dogs” – Managing allergies, comfort, and ortho success in active kids. 🔹 Case 4: “Wet Cement” – The pitfalls of missing subtle corneal findings in adults. Dr. Martin also shares: Why axial length trumps refraction as a key metric How to structure fees for sustainability When to use (or avoid) low-dose atropine And the one thing you must check before fitting an orthok patient 🎧 Get the extended edition with audience Q&A and follow-up discussion at MyopiaMindset.com If you enjoy the show, please: ✅ Leave a 5-star review ✅ Share this episode with a colleague ✅ Follow us for more insights into building your myopia management practice 📧 Questions or comments? Email us: [email protected]

In this episode, the myopia management community is calling for the formal recognition of myopia as a chronic, progressive disease. The AAOMC (American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control) highlights a major regulatory gap in the U.S., where the FDA’s device division has approved multiple tools to slow myopia progression, but the drug division has yet to recognize or authorize pharmaceutical options such as SYD-101 low-dose atropine — despite growing global momentum and strong clinical evidence. With Europe and the U.K. moving ahead on atropine approvals, the Academy is urging policymakers, industry partners, and clinicians to align U.S. standards with the global scientific consensus. Their message is clear: early intervention works, low-dose atropine is safe and effective, and it belongs alongside optical and behavioral treatments in comprehensive myopia management. Dr. Cary Herzberg joins Matthew to share his perspective as a pioneer in myopia management — not only advocating for access and recognition, but working to amplify the collective voice of the profession. Together, they call on colleagues and the broader myopia-management community to join the AAOMC's efforts to elevate this message: Myopia Is a Disease. Find out more at aaomc.org Support the podcast at myopiamindset.com

Dr. Thanh Mai shares how he went from failed cold starts to building four thriving myopia practices using mindset, systems, and storytelling. In this Essential Edition (first 30 min) episode of The Myopia Mindset, Dr. Thanh Mai — VP of Innovation at Treehouse Eyes and managing partner of four successful practices — opens up about the real story behind his growth. He shares what it’s like to start cold, the lessons learned from rebuilding, and the systems that helped him scale without losing sight of what matters most — patient care. Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/ You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters. Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

Are patients slipping through the cracks in your myopia management practice? Dr. Grant Miller and Dr. Justin Kwan reveal how small communication leaks and system gaps cost practices big — and how to fix them fast. In this Essential Edition (first 30 min) episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg talks with Dr. Grant Miller (Treehouse Eyes Rookie of the Year) and Dr. Justin Kwan (Head of Myopia Management at CooperVision) about “The Leaky Bucket of Myopia Control.” Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/‍ ‍You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters. Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In the Essential Edition (first 30 minutes) of this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with Dr. Paul Levine and Dr. Matthew Martin to dissect what really separates a smooth Ortho-K fitting process from a chaotic one.

Pioneers like Randy Kojima shaped myopia management one topography map at a time. Discover how Ortho-K evolved from the ‘wild west’ of contact lens fitting into one of the most powerful tools in modern eye care. Randy Kojima has helped shape how we understand and teach myopia management — from the early days of orthokeratology to cutting-edge topography and lens design. In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with Randy to explore: How Ortho-K evolved from a niche specialty to a cornerstone of modern optometry The critical role of mentorship and organizations like the AAOMC and Vision by Design Why topography capture remains one of the most important—and misunderstood—skills in eye care The impact of AI on lens design and myopia control What industry gets wrong about modern ECPs And how to inspire the next generation of myopia management leaders Whether you’re an experienced fitter or just stepping into the world of myopia control, this episode offers deep insight into how the field has evolved—and where it’s going next. 🎧 Listen to the full episode and extended interviews at https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with industry leaders to unpack what EssilorLuxottica’s FDA authorization for Stellest™ lenses means for clinicians, parents, and the future of myopia management.They discuss how this milestone fits into the broader movement toward early intervention, where the industry is heading next, and how practices can prepare for the rapid expansion of new treatment technologies.

How do you move from fitting Ortho-K lenses to designing them? In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg closes out the Road to Vision by Design 2025 series with two of the field’s top innovators: Dr. Sherman Tung and Dr. Laurence Wong.

In the Essential Edition (first 30 min) of this in-depth interview, host Matthew Herzberg and Dr. Ken Maller unpack the mindset it takes to build a 100% contact lens practice, the lessons learned from the “wild west” of early Ortho-K, and how curiosity and patience shaped an entire career.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

Three thousand papers are published on myopia every year. How do you know which ones matter? Dr. Langis Michaud breaks it all down—and Dr. Cary Herzberg explains why Vision by Design is the Super Bowl of myopia science.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast — Taking over a trailblazing Ortho-K practice comes with high expectations. Dr. Andrew Brauer shares how time, empathy, and personal experience helped him find his identity as a myopia management practitioner.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

Think you’re not ready for myopia management? Dr. Brianna Rue shows why you don’t need to be perfect—you just need to start. From her first patient to building a thriving referral network, discover the mindset shift that can transform your practice.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast—Consultation is where the battle for myopia management is won—or lost. In this episode, three experts reveal the exact strategies they use to win parents’ trust, boost conversions, and set kids up for success.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition episode of The Myopia Mindset, Dr. Dan Press shares his journey as a third-generation optometrist and previews his Vision By Design 2025 lecture, Myopia and the Whole Child.Is myopia really just about the eyes—or is it about the whole child? Dr. Dan Press reveals why screen time, outdoor play, sleep, and even family habits matter just as much as lenses or drops. This episode will change the way you think about myopia management.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast — Imagine being told a patient can’t be fit with Ortho-K. For Dr. Joelle Holland, those were the moments that defined her career—because with the right consultation and support from lens designer Mark Cosgrove, those patients walked away with life-changing results. What does it really take to succeed with orthokeratology and myopia management? In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg is joined by two powerhouse guests: Dr. Joelle Holland – rising star in optometry, passionate about family eye care and tackling complex cases. Mark Cosgrove – world-renowned Ortho-K lens designer, co-developer of Doctor’s Own Design, with over 1 million successful lens designs.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essentail Edition episode of The Myopia Mindset, host Matthew Herzberg sits down with Dr. Leah Johnson and Dr. Sheila Morrison, two leading experts in myopia management, to share their insights on practice management strategies, pricing pitfalls, scheduling hacks, and communication tips that keep patients happy and practices profitable.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast:What makes a practitioner truly successful in myopia management? Dr. Nate Bonilla-Warford shares how his journey—from early ortho-k curiosity to becoming a Vision By Design speaker—has shaped his approach to patient care, education, and practice growth. Packed with real-world tips, mindset shifts, and a preview of his VBD 2025 session, this conversation will inspire any eye care professional looking to take the next step.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

This episode has been UNLOCKED for all audiences as part of our ROAD TO VISION BY DESIGN 2025 series.What if you could know—within the first month—whether your myopia control treatment is working? In this episode, Pat Caroline and Randy Kojima reveal how they’re rewriting the Ortho-K playbook with signal-driven customization, cutting-edge measurements, and design tweaks that could transform patient outcomes. Discover how to optimize myopia control with customized orthokeratology lens designs. In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, industry legends Pat Caroline and Randy Kojima share a preview into their groundbreaking research on assessing the topographical myopia control signal and understanding sagittal depth for both Ortho-K and soft contact lenses. If you want the full lecture, don’t miss Pat and Randy’s session at Vision By Design in October—details at https://aaomc.org/vbd/Looking for more? https://myopiamindset.substack.com/Become a paid supporter to get longer discussions, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters!Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast, what’s next for myopia management? In this episode, we talk with Dr. Bruce Koffler and Dr. Michael Lipson about their upcoming session at Vision By Design 2025. They share how specific patient attributes influence the risk and progression of myopia—and introduce a practical total risk scoring system that guides fully customized treatment plans to slow myopic progression.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast, is Vision by Design really worth it? Bootcamp veterans say it’s the most energizing, career-changing event in myopia management. In this episode, you’ll hear from the powerhouse Bootcamp faculty themselves—and discover why this ortho-k and specialty lens training could transform your practice in 2025. Join host Matthew Herzberg and the Bootcamp faculty—Drs. Dwight Barnes, Cheryl Chapman, Matthew Martin, Paul Levine, Brianna Rhue, and Tom Weshefsky—for an inside look at Bootcamp at Vision by Design 2025. Whether you’re new to myopia management or a seasoned orthokeratology (ortho-k) expert, Vision By Design is the ultimate optometry conference experience. In this episode, you’ll hear how Bootcamp began, why the “colleague, not competitor” mindset shapes the AAOMC community, and how specialty contact lens training can transform your eye care practice. From myopia control breakthroughs to optometry CE opportunities, this conversation reveals why Vision by Design is more than just a meeting—it’s a network, a mentorship hub, and a career-defining event.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/You will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

This episode has been UNLOCKED for all audiences as part of our ROAD TO VISION BY DESIGN 2025 series. How do you move patients from “Maybe later” to “I’m in”—without feeling like a pushy salesperson?We’re kicking off our Road to Vision by Design 2025 series with none other than Dr. Steve Vargo, OD, MBA—bestselling author, seasoned consultant, and this year’s VBD keynote speaker.🎟 Learn more about Vision by Design 2025 at https://aaomc.org/vbd/In this episode of The Myopia Mindset, Dr. Vargo joins us for a practical, eye-opening conversation on trust, psychology, and the subtle art of patient communication. Whether you're struggling with treatment acceptance or want to sharpen your message, this one’s packed with insights you can use right away.We cover:Why most ODs feel uncomfortable “selling” myopia managementHow to ask better questions that invite curiosity (not resistance)The emotional triggers behind silent objectionsWhat to do when you hear the dreaded “no”How communication can set you apart in a world of rushed eye examsWhether you're a seasoned ortho-k provider or just starting your journey, this episode will challenge the way you think about patient care—and help you grow without sacrificing your authenticity.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/

In this Essential Edition of the podcast, Dr. Monica Jong joins The Myopia Mindset to share her incredible journey—from her early days as a clinician in Australia to becoming one of the most influential voices in the global myopia movement.Looking for more? Consider The Extended Edition of this episode, available for paid supporters at: https://myopiamindset.substack.com/p/from-clinic-to-global-impact-dr-monicaYou will get a longer discussion, more insights, and a bonus episode every month, exclusive to supporters.Help us spread the word about what makes Myopia Management truly special. https://www.myopiamindset.com/