Eye Give a Damn!

In this episode, Dr. Allen sits down with Dr. Sweta Das, Clinical Assistant Professor at SUNY College of Optometry, to talk about what it truly means to be a lifelong learner in the world of eye care and beyond. From her early days studying ophthalmic technology in Ottawa to her current role teaching and practicing in New York, Dr. Das shares how curiosity, humility, and routine shape both her personal growth and her clinical approach. Together, they dive into the pressure that healthcare professionals often face to “know everything,” and how embracing the unknown, with the support of research, referrals, and community, can lead to better care and deeper connection. Dr. Das offers a powerful perspective on the spiritual side of learning and the value of acknowledging what you don’t know. With reflections on the phrase “know thyself” and the belief that all things are working toward something good, this conversation is a reminder that expertise isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about continuing to seek them with intention and heart. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode, Dr. Allen sits down with Dr. Alison Bozung to explore the high-stakes world of emergency eye care. As a practicing optometrist in Bascom Palmer’s 24/7 ophthalmic emergency department and director of their optometry residency program, Dr. Bozung brings a wealth of clinical expertise, and a candid look at what it takes emotionally to thrive in such an intense environment. Together, they share practical tips for handling urgent eye cases, the importance of fast but thoughtful decision-making, and how clinicians can balance compassion with efficiency. Dr. Bozung also opens up about the emotional toll this type of work can take and why building support systems and healthy boundaries is critical for long-term success. Whether you're a student, early-career OD, or experienced practitioner, this conversation offers real-world insights, actionable takeaways, and a window into the unique demands of urgent eye care. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Passing the Torch at Optometry Giving Sight | Dr. Allen Interviews Lois Schoenbrun & Donna Mikulecky In this inspiring episode of the podcast, Dr. Joseph Allen sits down with two visionary leaders in global eye care: Lois Schoenbrun, outgoing Executive Director of Optometry Giving Sight (OGS), and Donna Mikulecky, who had just stepped into the role. With over three decades of nonprofit leadership, Lois reflects on her journey—from leading the American Academy of Optometry to guiding OGS through a time of global need. Together with Donna, they explore the mission and future of Optometry Giving Sight: to support sustainable, optometry-led programs that educate local eye care providers and expand access to vision care and eye health worldwide. They also discuss what sets OGS apart from traditional mission models, the importance of building long-term, local solutions, and how optometry as a profession continues to lead the way in volunteerism and global service. Their conversation is filled with insight, encouragement, and real stories that highlight how OGS is working toward a world where optometry enables universal access to vision care and eye health. Whether you're a practitioner, student, or advocate for global health, this episode will leave you hopeful and ready to be part of the change. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode of Eye Give a Damn, Dr. Allen sits down with Dr. Jason Compton — contact lens guru, business owner, and passionate AOA volunteer — for an inspiring and practical conversation that covers the full spectrum of private practice success. Dr. Compton shares his journey of returning to the community where he was raised to open a clinic in a highly competitive area. He dives into how he builds strong patient relationships, leverages internal marketing strategies, and fosters a culture where everyone on the team understands and promotes the services they offer, especially when it comes to contact lenses and myopia control. You’ll hear how Dr. Compton’s clinic fits a high volume of contacts, how they communicate value to patients, and how technology and consistency play a key role in their approach. Plus, he reflects on what’s next for his clinic and how he’s finding the balance between offering innovative care and avoiding burnout. Whether you're looking to grow your clinic, improve your contact lens offerings, or learn how to build lasting patient trust — this episode is packed with wisdom, experience, and heart. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode of Eye Give a Damn, Dr. Allen chats with Dr. Jessilin Quint, an optometrist, speaker, and industry leader known for her innovative approach to dry eye care. Dr. Quint shares how she built a successful dry eye treatment spa within her private practice, Smart Eye Care in Maine, designing it to feel more like a spa than a traditional clinic. From curating a relaxing patient experience to implementing cutting-edge treatment protocols, Dr. Quint walks us through how she’s made dry eye a standout service that both patients and staff are excited about. If you’re thinking about growing your dry eye services, creating a premium patient experience, or just want to hear how one OD is blending clinical care with creativity and strategy — this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode of Eye Give a Damn, Dr. Allen is joined by Dr. Neal Troyer — optometrist, educator, and co-founder of the Eyecare Republic — for a powerful conversation about the future of eye care and the deeper connections between vision, nutrition, and wellness. They discuss why Dr. Troyer helped launch a new independent ECP alliance and the challenges facing traditional optometry in the age of tech and telehealth. With a shared passion for how lifestyle impacts eye health, Dr. Allen and Dr. Troyer also dig into the science behind nutrition and its role in preventing conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma. They also explore the potential benefits (and limitations) of intermittent fasting, and what ODs can do to better educate patients about dietary choices that protect their vision. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode of the Eye Give a Damn Podcast, Dr. Allen sits down with Trudi Charest, also known as The Eye Care Marketer, to talk all things marketing, personal branding, and how eye care professionals can thrive in today’s digital world. Whether you’re an OD who owns a clinic or just looking to build your personal brand, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Trudi shares strategies for social media, tips on how to show up online authentically, and why branding matters even if you’re not the business owner. Trudi brings a powerhouse resume: she’s a licensed optician, marketing expert, speaker, and co-founder of Marketing4ECPs. She’s trained sales teams across North America and has been called a “LinkedIn guru” with over 11,000 followers. Her advice? Real, practical, and totally doable. 🧠 Why your brand matters (yes, even if you're an associate OD) 📱 How to stand out on social media without feeling salesy 💡 Why marketing isn't just about ads - it's about connection 🚀 Quick tips for building a recognizable brand in your community Dr. Allen picked up new ideas in this episode, and you will too! Tune in and level up your eye care marketing game. 📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights from leaders in the eye care industry! #PersonalBranding #Marketing Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode of the Eye Give a Damn Podcast, Dr. Allen sits down with licensed optician and industry consultant Jackie O’Keefe Lincoln, who brings 43 years of wisdom and experience to the table. From her unexpected start in the field to speaking on stages and consulting in clinics, Jackie shares insights that will change the way you think about patient care. They dive into: 👓 How to build trust between doctors, staff, and patients 💬 Why communication is key to a great glasses experience 🤝 The power of a meaningful handoff between team members 🌍 How to be culturally aware and truly welcome patients Whether you're an optometrist, optician, or part of a clinic team, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies to “hypothetically hug your patients” — starting with how you greet them and ending with how you make them feel seen, heard, and valued. 📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights from leaders in the eye care industry! #Optometry #Optical Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this episode, Dr. Joseph Allen (@DoctorEyeHealth) sits down with Dr. Darryl Glover to discuss the power of personal branding in optometry. With a career spanning multiple roles—including eyewear consultant, optometric technician, office manager, and optometrist—Dr. Glover shares how his diverse experience shaped his entrepreneurial journey and helped him build a standout brand in the eye care industry. Dr. Glover introduces his B.R.A.N.D. framework (the “secret sauce”) offering practical strategies for optometrists and optometry students looking to establish their personal brand, expand their reach, and elevate their careers. Tune in to learn: ✅ How personal branding can set you apart in optometry ✅ Actionable steps for building an authentic and impactful professional identity ✅ Understanding what branding really is (hint: it’s more than just a logo!) ✅ Utilizing social media to elevate a brand 📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights from leaders in the eye care industry! #Optometry #PersonalBranding Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Andrew Kemp, OD, FAAO, is a Clinical Assistant Professor at University of Houston College of Optometry and AOA’s 2022 Optometric Educator of the Year Award winner, who is providing hands-on education in a community-based clinic. Working with optometry students at a clinic in Dallas, Dr. Kemp is proud to provide a wide variety of care to an underserved population. His goal as an educator is to foster an environment where students are comfortable asking questions, going through the process, and making decisions in a clinical environment. His personal passions include glaucoma care, specialty contact lenses, and billing and coding. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

In this discussion with Dr. Joseph Allen ( @DoctorEyeHealth ) he shares how getting fired from his first OD job was one of the best things that happened to him. He also discusses his journey to reinvent himself within the dry eye space to help his specialty contact lens patients. Learn about his practice’s core values, GIFTS: Generosity, Initiative, Faithfulness, Teamwork and Simplicity. Dr. Kading also goes in depth on how he uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a variety of ways from marketing and social media to practice metrics and ideas for articles. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Roya Attar, OD, MBA, DHA, is a professor and director of optometric services at the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Mississippi Medical Center. For instance, Dr. Attar utilizes AI to manage her emails and as a scribe to help her focus on her patient while the program takes notes and fills in the EHR, which she reviews afterward. She discusses some of her favorite AI programs and different ways they can be incorporated into your daily professional and personal life. Like any other new technology, she feels AI will augment healthcare professionals’ ability to diagnose, manage and treat patients. She is most excited about how AI will enable more personalized medicine going forward. On a personal note, this is another full circle moment for Dr. Joseph Allen as he interviews his former TA from the UIW Rosenberg School of Optometry. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

As the AOSA president at The Ohio State University College of Optometry, Maggie Dunn has worked alongside members of the Ohio Optometric Society to advocate for the profession. She discusses her passion for scope expansion and meeting with legislators to educate them on all that optometry students are learning and what optometrists are doing in practice. Her philosophy for speaking to elected officials is: “Speak from the heart and speak the truth.” Maggie shares her thoughts on how she and her cohorts feel about entering school during the pandemic, private practice, practice ownership, private equity, board scores, and more. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

J. Daniel Diaz, MD, and Diana Shechtman, OD, FAAO, work side by side at Retinal Consultants of Miami. In this episode, Dr. Allen interviews them both to learn how they work together to serve their patients. Dr. Diaz and Dr. Shechtman agree that success starts with mutual respect and trust in each other and feel that collaborative care is the only way forward. Listen in as they discuss their backgrounds and the patient population they serve. They also share their thoughts on how other optometrists and ophthalmologists can collaborate to better serve their patients. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Listen in as they discuss the benefits of vitamins, supplementation, and lifestyle changes for preventing and slowing down many diseases, including age-related macular degeneration. Professor Nolan is a world-renowned scientist and researcher based in Waterford, Ireland where he established the Macular Pigment Research Group and founded the Nutrition Research Centre Ireland. His current research interests include the study of key nutrients for cognitive function, ocular nutrition, and brain health with a major goal of identifying ways to reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Topics include, but aren’t limited to, carotenoids, antioxidants, lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin, blue light, and macular pigment. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Dr. Jill Saxon shares with Dr. Joseph Allen how her officer training in the Navy helped her become the leader she is today and she shares the story of a specific soldier that helped inspire her to think big and give back. She then transitioned to private practice in her hometown in New Jersey, where she had the opportunity to work with Bausch + Lomb as a consultant. Eventually, B+L approached her with the opportunity to join full time. She discussed her 10 years in industry and its global impact on optometry and patient care, starting with her early input on developing the INFUSE contact lens. Listen in and get inspired to move optometry forward! Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, was involved early in the development of scleral lenses and is now considered a legend in specialty contact lens fitting. In fact, she was one of the authors to publish the first contemporary scleral lens textbook in 2017. She also spent four years in an ophthalmology practice, where she became certified in California to treat glaucoma. Currently, she serves as the Director of Optometry at UC Davis in Northern California. She believes every optometrist should get involved with their local and state optometry associations. Today, she is clearly passionate about discussing keratoconus with colleagues and patients on her Clearly KC podcast. After authoring 300+ publications and delivering numerous lectures, Dr. Barnett is honored that she is now able to advocate for colleagues, diversity and the industry, which resonates well with her personal why: “To elevate others through the power of connection.” Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Viola Kanevsky, OD, was born in the former Soviet Union, but after a family “adventure” they settled down in New York City when she was a child. Like most optometrists, she worked in several modes of practice early on, but today, she owns a specialty pediatrics practice in Manhattan. She loves seeing children and considers it “play time” rather than an exam. Her advice for working with kids is to think outside of the box, be patient, and follow their lead. She shares her tips on how to fit infants and small children with specialty contact lenses (psst... The secret is keeping the parent calm). Her practice does not take vision plans or medical plans (other than Medicare) because she wants to be able to prescribe what is best for each patient. She also discusses her family’s passion project called “The Ship of Tolerance.” You may have seen her witty posts and comments as a group expert in ODs on Facebook, but now it’s time to get to know Dr. Viola Kanevsky better. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Mile Brujic, OD, FAAO, is an international optometric educator with over 2000 lectures given to date. For 22 years, he has been with the same practice, where he’s now one of the partners. He shares with Dr. Joseph Allen how he entered the speaking world by developing dry eye and contact lenses CE courses for opticians. His keys to success include putting in the hard work to truly master the content and a commitment to getting raw, honest feedback and taking it to heart to improve. Working with industry partners, he’s had the opportunity to conduct research and consult on cutting-edge innovations in eye care, making him a better clinician as a result. Personally, he finds immense strength in his partnership with his wife, as they’ve grown together over the years to support each other’s professional pursuits. His current passion is his work on Optometric Insights with Dr. David Kading to help educate and inspire students to greater career enjoyment and success. Lastly, he implores all optometrists to be dues-paying members of their national and state optometric associations to create an even more powerful and unified profession. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.

Dr. Cory Lappin knew as an optometry student that he found his passion for dry eye, cornea and anterior segment disease as his fellow students commonly complained about symptoms of dry eye. After completing his residency at Cincinnati Eye Institute, he was fortunate to join Phoenix Eye Care and Dry Eye Center of Arizona, where he was mentored by the legendary Dr. Art Epstein. Since publishing the Ultimate Guide to Dry Eye, Dr. Lappin has continued to pursue his passion for writing and educating, putting an emphasis on scientific literacy. Dr. Lappin’s passion for the advances in ocular surface disease diagnosis and treatment is contagious. Eye Give a Damn hosted by Dr. Joseph Allen is produced by FluoreSCENE Media. For more information on Dr. Joseph Allen visit https://doctoreyehealth.com/ Visit https://odcommunity.com/ to learn more about FluoreSCENE Media.