The Optometry Success Podcast

In this episode Chad and I respond to a listener question about how to handle diabetic patients within the realities of managed vision care and medical insurance. We unpack the practical communication and workflow decisions that come up in the exam room when a patient presents with both wellness coverage and a medical condition that requires ongoing monitoring. Chad walks through how he scripts these conversations with patients, why separating wellness and medical visits can often be the cleanest path, and how clear communication at the start of the encounter helps prevent confusion later. If you have ever struggled with getting patients back for follow up care or explaining the difference between vision benefits and medical coverage, this episode offers practical language and a framework you can begin using in your exam room right away.   Resources: Learn more about Partners in Profit Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode Chad and I tackle a listener question from an owner doctor preparing to expand from a 2,000 square foot office into a 7,000 square foot space while realizing the optical has been running on autopilot for far too long. We talk through what it means to step back into leadership without creating unnecessary friction, why curiosity has to come before criticism, and how to rebuild trust with a team that has been largely self managed for years.   We also unpack the importance of learning the systems before trying to change them, gathering feedback from staff, vendors, and patients, and recognizing that growth at this level requires fresh investment of your time and attention. If you are preparing for expansion or wondering how to lead an optical through a major transition, this conversation will give you a practical framework for taking the reins in a way that strengthens both your team and your long term success.   Resources: Manager Tools Learn more about Partners in Profit Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we kick off our Scaling Series by answering a listener question about when and how the administrative structure of an optometry practice should evolve as revenue grows. We define scaling as revenue growing faster than expenses and explore the common misconception that scaling only means adding associates or locations. We discuss when to introduce fractional financial support, the risks of waiting too long to restructure leadership, and why efficiency often matters more than hitting a specific revenue number. Most importantly, we emphasize that scaling starts with self awareness — understanding our core values, avoiding lifestyle creep, and clarifying whether we want to be the top producer in the exam lane or step into a broader leadership role — because sustainable growth begins with alignment.   Have a question you'd like us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice Learn more about Partners in Profit   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

We unpack why so many optometry practice owners hit a "ceiling" and how the fastest way to raise it is by surrounding ourselves with people who are truly operating at the level we want to reach. We talk about the difference between real operators and social media noise, why we should look outside optometry for perspective when it helps (like lessons from other service based businesses), and how to "trust but verify" by asking better questions and understanding incentives before we follow anyone's advice. We also challenge the habit of pretending everything is fine, because growth accelerates when we get honest about what's actually broken, identify the real constraint in the practice, and lean into relationships where transparency and accountability go both ways.   Have a question you'd like us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources Book a Triage call with Adam Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice Find out more about Partners In Profit Book: Paradox of Generosity   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

We use a simple Tetris metaphor to explain what real progress looks like in an optometry practice: we don't need every move mapped out, we just need to make the best next decision with the "block" in front of us, execute, and then adjust based on what we learn. We talk through why many owners get trapped waiting for perfect clarity, how the build, measure, learn cycle creates momentum and profitability, and why healthy margins require intentional choices instead of letting vendors, reps, or urgency dictate our priorities. We also get honest about the real constraint for most practice owners: if we're in clinic nonstop, we'll never have the margin to work on the business, so we may need a temporary pullback to reinvest in people and systems that unlock the next level.   Have a question you'd like us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Learn more about Partners in Profit Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice The Lean Startup Book   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we tackle a topic many optometry practice owners overlook: how to strategically manage reps and vendor partners so they add value without draining time, payroll, or margin. We discuss how to set guardrails with your team, differentiate true vendor partners from transactional sales reps, and avoid the hidden labor costs that come from unstructured drop in visits. From scheduling limited rep time blocks to leveraging consignment frame programs that reduce administrative burden, this conversation focuses on protecting productivity while still benefiting from outside expertise. The key takeaway is simple: if you do not create a system for managing reps, they will create one for you, and it may not serve your profitability or long term vision.   Have a question you'd like us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources:   Reduce Staff As You Scale Reduces HR Headaches Learn more about Partners in Profit Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice

In this episode, we expand the outsourcing conversation beyond billing and challenge ourselves as practice owners to rethink what truly has to stay on our plate. We discuss domestic versus international outsourcing, how virtual team members can support communication and administrative roles, and how systems in optical and operations can reduce hidden inefficiencies that quietly erode margin. More importantly, we address the mindset shift required to let go of tasks that create decision fatigue and limit growth. If you feel like you are working harder but not seeing the return, this conversation will push you to inventory your time, take a calculated risk, and build a practice that runs on better systems rather than personal sacrifice   Have a question you'd like us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we dive into one of the least exciting but most critical areas of practice ownership: billing and collections. We discuss whether to keep billing in house or outsource it, how accounts receivable aging reveals the health of your revenue cycle, and the real business risk of relying on a single team member to manage cash flow. We share practical insights on evaluating billing partners, maintaining continuity, reducing HR strain, and communicating changes with trust and respect so your practice can stay profitable, stable, and positioned for long term success.   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we challenge optometry practice owners to rethink online scheduling, not as a tech upgrade, but as a strategic lever for growth and efficiency. We unpack the gap between simply offering online scheduling and actually driving patient adoption. If we want to elevate the patient experience and reduce administrative strain, we have to do more than turn it on. We have to communicate the why, integrate it into every patient touchpoint, and make it the natural first step when someone is ready to book.   This conversation goes beyond convenience. We talk about capturing missed opportunities, lowering phone volume, managing rising staffing costs, and creating a smoother experience for both patients and team members. If we are serious about adding new patients and running a more efficient practice in 2026, this is a simple, delegatable project that can create meaningful long term impact.   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we take on a topic that pulls at every practice owner's attention: marketing. But instead of talking about bigger budgets, mailers, or flashy tactics, we challenge the assumption that growth always requires more marketing dollars.   When we look at high performing practices, many of them are not spending heavily on traditional marketing at all. We explore the idea that culture is marketing and that the patient experience is either making you remarkable or making you invisible. From online scheduling to first impressions at the front desk, we break down how the small decisions inside your practice compound into the story your patients tell about you.   We also get practical about execution. It is not enough to have great ideas about patient experience if we never pull the trigger. We talk about avoiding paralysis by analysis, setting clear success criteria, and committing to 90 day action plans that actually move the needle.   If you have been wondering whether you need to spend more on marketing or simply execute better on what matters most, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth and give you a clear next step to act on.   Have a question you'd like us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we talk about what it takes to grow a practice by bringing on an associate OD. We discuss timing, compensation structures, production models, and the importance of culture and long term alignment. We also share practical insight into recruiting, leadership, and creating opportunities that benefit both the practice and the associate. If growth is on your radar, this conversation offers a helpful inside look at how we think about it. Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources:   What is "schedule health" and why should practice owners be measuring it Partners in Profit Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we share how to confidently give patients clear choices in the exam lane without creating confusion or pushback around vision and medical care. We explain how setting expectations early and taking ownership of clear communication builds trust and increases acceptance of follow up visits. We also touch on how to structure your schedule to support shorter, more frequent visits and why giving patients ownership of their decisions improves both the patient experience and practice profitability.   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

Adding associate ODs in an established practice feels risky. Let's go from risky to empowering! In this episode, we explore the mindset shifts, financial considerations, and key performance indicators necessary for successful expansion. We'll discuss how to proactively determine when your practice is ready for an associate and how to break down the investment of hiring an associate into your practice.   Hosted By Adam Cmejla, CFP and Chad Fleming, OD, FAAO   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we explore how we can shift from traditional scopes of practice to a more intentional, patient-centric approach. We dive into embracing managed vision care plans, redefining our billing practices, and using strategic communication to better serve our patients. Along the way, we share actionable insights to improve practice efficiency and patient outcomes as optometry continues to evolve.   Hosted By Adam Cmejla, CFP and Chad Fleming, OD, FAAO   Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

In this episode, we dive into the critical concept of schedule health and how it drives strategic growth, especially when adding associates. We explore how data-driven insights help us make confident, informed decisions that support sustainable scaling for our practices.   Hosted By Adam Cmejla, CFP and Chad Fleming, OD, FAAO     Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk 

The Optometry Success Podcast helps private-practice optometrists build profitable, sustainable businesses with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Adam Cmejla, CFP—a financial planner and CFO to ODs nationwide—and Chad Fleming, OD, FAAO—a multi-location practice owner with decades of hands-on experience—each 20-minute episode delivers practical strategies and actionable insights you can apply right away. From leadership and financials to team culture, operations, and growth, this is your weekly dose of real-world advice for real-world practice owners. New episodes every Wednesday.   Hosted By Adam Cmejla, CFP and Chad Fleming, OD, FAAO     Have a question for us to address in a future episode? Submit it here!   Resources: Download the Practice Owner's Financial Toolkit Partners in Profit 20/20 Money Ultimate Financial Success Masterclass OD Mastermind Interest Form Check out Adam's new book: How to Buy an Optometry Practice   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://shorturl.at/Fq1Ro  Subscribe on Spotify: https://shorturl.at/jCtsk