Digging Deep into Optometry
Episodes
Thursday May 22, 2025
Thursday May 22, 2025
"In this episode, Aaron sits down with Bryan and Bradford Manning, co-founders of Two Blind Brothers, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation recorded live at the 2025 Vision Source Exchange in Denver, CO. The brothers share their journey of building a purpose-driven brand rooted in empathy, innovation, and the mission to cure blindness. We talk about the launch of the 2BB eyewear collection in collaboration with L’Amy America, designed to “feel the difference” through quality, comfort, and a tactile experience.
The 2BB line is now part of Vision Source’s Frame Dream program, an initiative aimed at optimizing board management, improving capture rate, and streamlining optical operations for independent practices. Aaron shares how his own practice is seeing real benefits from the program.
If you’re interested in the intersection of philanthropy, design, and independent optometry—this one’s for you.
Two Blind Brothers: https://twoblindbrothers.com/pages/reveal
2BB Frame Line: https://www.lamyamerica.com/catalog/2bb
Interested in Vision Source: https://visionsourcenext.com/
Vision Source's Frame Dream program for members: https://insight.visionsource.com/Programs/Frame-Dream
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
Monday May 19, 2025
Monday May 19, 2025
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Thursday May 15, 2025
Thursday May 15, 2025
In this episode of Book Nerds: A Book Club for Doctor Entrepreneurs, Drs. Kyle Klute, Brianna Rhue, and Aaron Werner unpack Jim Collins’ Beyond Entrepreneurship 2.0. From taking “irreversible leaps” to confronting comfort and indecision, they reflect on what it really takes to build an enduring, values-driven business. The discussion explores leadership identity, culture, decision-making frameworks like the RICE method, and why great strategy is often stunningly simple.
Whether you’re leading a team, scaling a practice, or making your next bold move—this conversation will challenge and inspire you to think beyond what’s next.
Join our next LIVE episode of BookNerds on June 25 @ 1pm CST when we'll be discussing Essentialism by Greg McKeown (https://www.practiceperformancepartners.com/pages/booknerds)
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation!
Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
Monday May 12, 2025
Monday May 12, 2025
In this episode, Chris discusses the complexities of managing comprehensive care in optometry, particularly for patients with multiple conditions. He emphasizes the challenges of relying on optical sales to sustain practice revenue and advocates for a shift towards more focused, problem-specific visits to improve patient care and practice sustainability. Check it out the Comprehensive Optometry Simplified course here:
This conversation explores the integration of ERG technology in eye care practices, the role of telehealth in providing comprehensive care, and the challenges faced by practitioners in remote locations. The discussion highlights the importance of data-driven decisions in implementing new technologies and the need for innovative business models to ensure quality patient care. The speakers share insights on their experiences with ERG technology, telehealth, and the evolving landscape of ocular disease management. In this conversation, Dr. Chris and Dr. Bradley Grant discuss the integration of clinical data and technology into patient care, focusing on diabetic retinopathy and the importance of automatic protocols. They explore how to influence patient compliance through metrics, optimize clinic workflow with testing protocols, and empower staff to enhance patient care. The discussion emphasizes the need for practices to adapt technology to their unique workflows and the significance of involving staff in the process. Check out the Practical Implementation of ERG in a Comprehensive Practice course here: https://www.practiceperformancepartners.com/courses/ERG
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Wednesday May 07, 2025
Rachel Crawford is an award-winning Encinitas-based interior designer known for blending modern-contemporary and eclectic aesthetics with holistic, energy-driven practices. Certified in Feng Shui, Energetic Space Clearing, and a Reiki Master, Rachel creates harmonious spaces across residential, hospitality, and retail environments. She is also the host of the Hospitality Interior Design Podcast, where she explores the intersection of design, energy, and conscious living, and The Holistic Interior Design Podcast, which supports and uplifts young designers.
Believing that our surroundings deeply impact our well-being, Rachel designs spaces that foster community, inspiration, and well-being for all. Her work is inspired by a love of art, fashion, travel, and nature, weaving soul and story into every project. Since starting her design journey in 1999, Rachel’s work has been featured in San Diego Home and Garden, Modern Luxury, San Diego Magazine, and Style & Decor Magazine.
Links:
Website: tigerveil.com
Email: rachel@tigerveil.com
Phone: 619-277-2721
Hospitality Interior Design Podcast: Listen here (https://holistic-hospitality-design.captivate.fm/listen)
Holistic Interior Design Podcast: Listen here (https://holistic-interior-design.captivate.fm/listen)
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
"On this episode of the Aaron Werner Podcast on EyeCode Media, Aaron talks with Sarah Jardine, CEO of epipole and maker of the ultra-portable epiCam®. Sarah shares how simple ideas—like wheels on workstations and Kaizen Time—helped her 10× production at Optos without adding space. They dive into flow, leadership, and lessons from factories, fast food, and Disney that eye care practices can steal today.
Together, Aaron and Sarah dive into simple but transformative strategies for improving flow, efficiency, and team engagement—lessons optometrists and entrepreneurs alike can apply immediately.
In This Episode:
- How wheels, power grids, and zero new square footage 10×’d Optos’ output
- The brilliance of Kaizen Time: 2 hours a week = millions in productivity gains
- Why studying both failures and successes unlocks faster growth
- What McDonald’s, Disney, and lipstick factories can teach eye care practices
Connect with Sarah:
LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-jardine-70b51212/)"
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
Monday Apr 28, 2025
Monday Apr 28, 2025
This conversation explores the integration of ERG technology in eye care practices, the role of telehealth in providing comprehensive care, and the challenges faced by practitioners in remote locations. The discussion highlights the importance of data-driven decisions in implementing new technologies and the need for innovative business models to ensure quality patient care. The speakers share insights on their experiences with ERG technology, telehealth, and the evolving landscape of ocular disease management. In this conversation, Dr. Chris and Dr. Bradley Grant discuss the integration of clinical data and technology into patient care, focusing on diabetic retinopathy and the importance of automatic protocols. They explore how to influence patient compliance through metrics, optimize clinic workflow with testing protocols, and empower staff to enhance patient care. The discussion emphasizes the need for practices to adapt technology to their unique workflows and the significance of involving staff in the process. Check out the Practical Implementation of ERG in a Comprehensive Practice course here: https://www.practiceperformancepartners.com/courses/ERG
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
In this thought-provoking clinical roundtable, Dr. Chris Wolfe is joined by Dr. Shane Kannarr and Dr. Aaron Werner to unpack the real-world implications of Lacrifill, a novel hyaluronic acid-based punctal occlusion device that’s changing the conversation around dry eye management.
What starts as a lighthearted discussion about plumbing and practice life quickly turns into a deep dive into how Lacrifill may reshape our protocols, especially in a landscape where traditional plugs have fallen out of favor. From staining outcomes and HA elution to procedural technique and patient selection strategies, this episode is packed with critical thinking, clinical transparency, and honest questions.
Topics Covered:
How Lacrifill differs from traditional punctal plugs
Why inflammation changed the game—and may be causing underuse of occlusion
The value of fluorescein and lissamine staining, lid wiper epitheliopathy, and neurotrophic keratopathy
Real-world feedback: injection technique, cannula size, managing patient discomfort
Strategic use in seasonal dry eye, post-cataract care, and diagnostic dry eye pathways
How to build consistent, team-based dry eye protocols that evolve with innovation
Whether you’re just beginning to explore dry eye treatment or looking to refine your advanced protocol, this episode provides a candid, collaborative look at how Lacrifill might become more than just the “new plug”—and instead, a pillar in your dry eye strategy.
Plus: Tips for integrating procedures more confidently and systematizing care so your entire team delivers better outcomes.
Resources:
Lacrifill clinical trial and product data (https://lacrifill.com/clinical-trial-and-product-data/)
Disposable Blunt Tip Dispensing Needle (https://a.co/d/63bXrPS)
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
Wednesday Apr 16, 2025
"This month on Book Nerds, your favorite doctor-entrepreneurs—Dr. Kyle Klute, Dr. Brianna Rhue, and Dr. Aaron Werner—are joined by Daniel Palmer, certified StoryBrand guide and marketing strategist, to dive deep into Donald Miller’s StoryBrand 2.0. What happens when doctors stop trying to be the hero and instead become the guide? The answer might just transform your entire practice.
In This Episode:
• What it really means to make your patient the hero
• The seven parts of the StoryBrand framework and how to apply them in optometry
• Why clarity beats complexity—and how jargon drives patients away
• How to craft simple, 3-step plans that increase patient engagement
• Why most practices “OD-splain” (yep, it’s a thing) and how to fix it
• Using empathy and storytelling to drive better treatment acceptance
• How to reframe your team communication and leadership using the same framework
• BONUS: How Aaron tested the framework during story time at the bar
Whether you’re explaining glaucoma drops, pitching dry eye treatments, or training your staff, this episode will show you how storytelling creates buy-in, boosts revenue, and builds lasting relationships. And yes, you’ll never watch a movie—or give a treatment recommendation—the same way again.
Tools Mentioned:
• StoryBrand One-Liner Formula
• Donald Miller’s Business Made Simple AI Tool
• The “8 Second Rule” to close the sale"
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation!
Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
In this episode, Chris sets the stage for an upcoming panel discussion at the Vision Source Exchange, focusing on maximizing the potential within existing patient bases. He encourages listeners to reflect on their practices, particularly regarding contact lens fitting metrics, patient engagement, and loyalty. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding patient needs, addressing barriers to contact lens fitting, and fostering family engagement in eye care. Chris highlights the significance of data-driven insights and intentional communication to enhance practice growth and patient retention.
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For our listeners, use the code 'EYECODEMEDIA22' for 10% off at check out for our Premiere Billing & Coding bundle or our EyeCode Billing & Coding course. Sharpen your billing and coding skills today and leave no money on the table! questions@eyecode-education.com
https://coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-and-aoa-join-forces-launch-myopia-collective
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Show Sponsors: CooperVision MacuHealth
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
"In this enlightening mini-episode, Aaron catches up with Professor John Nolan, a global leader in ocular nutrition research, for a compelling conversation on John's ""Vision For Vision"" philosopathy that spans the full human lifecycle—from early fetal development to peak athletic performance and aging brain health.
Prof. Nolan shares a powerful perspective on the vital role of carotenoids and omega-3s in supporting not just vision, but cognitive development, maternal health, and long-term neuroprotection. He explains how science is evolving beyond just disease prevention, moving toward optimizing health at every stage of life.
What we discuss:
• Why expecting mothers become depleted of carotenoids—and why it matters
• How nutrition impacts early brain and retina development
• The future of vision care: From AMD to athletes and military performance
• Why the concept of “cradle to the dance floor” is the new frontier of ocular and brain health
• A preview of the groundbreaking research to be presented at the Bond Conference (July 2025, Boston)
Don’t Miss!
If you’re attending the Vision Source Exchange (www.vstheexchange.com), mark your calendar for Prof. Nolan’s keynote sessions—this is one of the most forward-thinking voices in ocular science today.
"
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
Wednesday Apr 09, 2025
"In this episode of the Aaron Werner Podcast on iCode Media, Aaron sits down with the dynamic and multifaceted Mikki Collins—a former surgical tech turned optical fashionista, ABO speaker, and industry insider. From the OR to the runway, Mikki shares her unique journey and dives into the evolving intersection of optical retail, fashion, patient experience, and practice growth.
What You’ll Learn:
• Mikki’s journey from ophthalmology surgical tech to optical fashion leader
• Why opticians should know the story behind the frame—and how to tell it
• What bespoke acetate is and why it matters in premium eyewear (yes, even Kate Spade!)
• The real role of frame reps—and how to partner better with them
• How AI tools like ChatGPT can help forecast trends and understand local demographics
• Using social media trends and retail experiences (TJ Maxx vs. Gucci!) to design your optical
• How to elevate your team’s communication, styling, and selling confidence
• Why “practice, not roleplay” can transform staff training
• Tips for masterclass binge-watching that actually helps your clinic
• Why it’s okay to say “we’re not for everyone”—and how to lean into your brand identity
Resources & Shoutouts:
• Optical Women’s Association (OWA)
• MasterClass picks: Salman Rushdie, Jocko Willink, Daniel Pink
• To Sell Is Human by Daniel Pink
• Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink
• Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller
• Vision Source (https://visionsource.com) FrameDream Program
• HubSpot Academy (https://academy.hubspot.com/) – Free sales & marketing courses
• Coursera (https://www.coursera.org) – Retail & psychology courses
Whether you’re an OD, optician, or part of the optical care team, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring insights on how to build a smarter, more stylish, and more strategic optical.
Contact Mikki Collins: Mikki.Collins@safilo.com"
________________________
questions@eyecode-education.com
Go to MacuHealth.com and use the coupon code PODCAST2024 at checkout for special discounts
Let's Connect! Follow and join the conversation! Instagram: @aaron_werner_vision