Ryan Reflects with Dr. Ryan Corte | Optometry Podcast

Dr. Ryan Corte and Dr. Chris Lopez analyze the 2026 Optometry Income Report, discussing income trends, practice ownership, net worth, student debt, and career satisfaction within optometry. Access the full report here . Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the 2026 Optometry Income Report 02:58 Key Insights from the Income Report 06:13 Income Stability and Growth in Optometry 08:59 The Potential for Fin...

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Don Railsback , an optometrist and entrepreneur, to explore his journey from private practice to vision plan innovator and the birth of Vision Care Direct. They discuss the evolution of optometry, challenges in healthcare, and strategies for thriving in a changing industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Don Railsback 03:27 The Journey from Optometry to Vision Pla...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of measuring axial length in myopia management, how to incorporate it into clinical practice, and the benefits of using biometers for tracking eye growth over time. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Myopia and Axial Length 02:48 The Importance of Tracking Axial Length 04:24 Integrating Axial Length Measurements in Practice 07:06 Utilizing Technology for Myopia Ma...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of having an inclement weather policy for private practice owners, particularly in the field of optometry. He shares personal experiences navigating severe weather events and emphasizes the need for effective communication and operational guidelines to ensure patient safety and business continuity during unpredictable weather conditions. The conversation hig...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the introduction of Essilor's Stellest lenses , the first spectacle lens in the US proven to slow pediatric myopia progression. He explores the increasing prevalence of myopia, its risk factors, and the importance of proactive myopia management in optometry. Dr. Corte shares insights on how to effectively incorporate Stellest lenses into clinical practice, the science...

Ryan Corte, OD, reflects on the challenges and growth experienced throughout 2025, emphasizing the importance of reflection and learning. He shares insights from conversations with colleagues in the optometry field, highlighting the diverse paths within the profession and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. Looking ahead to 2026, Ryan expresses his commitment to providing valuable co...

In a conversation with Dr. Chris Wolfe, Dr. Ryan Corte shares his journey from being a student at Ohio State to becoming a successful practice owner in Asheville, North Carolina. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he faced while transitioning from a residency to private practice, including the rebranding of his practice and the use of AI in the process. The discussion also delves into t...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses strategies for optometrists to effectively manage the busy year-end period. He emphasizes the importance of optimizing patient scheduling, communicating with the team and patients, fostering team morale, ensuring operational efficiency, and addressing compliance and financial planning. The goal is to not only survive the year-end rush but to thrive with energy and gratitud...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the comprehensive process of rebranding an optometry practice, emphasizing the importance of clarity, consistency, and connection. He shares his personal journey of rebranding from Northlake Eye to Reflect Vision Care , detailing the steps involved, including developing a brand identity, legal considerations, internal team alignment, and effective communication with patien...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the controversial topic of optometric residency, exploring its pros and cons based on his personal experience. He emphasizes the importance of residency in building clinical confidence, specializing in various areas of optometry, and enhancing career opportunities. However, he also addresses the financial sacrifices and potential delays in starting a full-time practice tha...

Dr. Joshua Davidson shares his journey through the world of optometry, discussing the challenges and failures he faced in product development, his experiences in optometry school, and the unique patient care environment in Louisiana. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and the entrepreneurial spirit in advancing the field of optometry. Davidson also reflects on the balance b...

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Carly Rose , an optometrist known for her impactful presence on social media and her journey through the optometry profession. They discuss Dr. Rose's path into optometry, her experiences during residency, and her transition into business ownership with a focus on dry eye treatment. The conversation delves into the challenges of burnout, the importance of mindfuln...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the common misconceptions surrounding contact lens wear for patients with astigmatism. He shares personal experiences with patients who were previously told they were not candidates for contact lenses and emphasizes the importance of proper fitting and the advancements in contact lens technology. Dr. Corte provides practical tips for eye care professionals to enhance patie...

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Angelica Cifuentes , an optometrist from Miami, Florida. They discuss Dr. Cifuentes' journey into optometry, her experiences in optometry school, and her growth on social media as 'Tiny Optometrist.' The conversation highlights the importance of diverse pathways in the profession, the value of hands-on experience, and the significance of advocacy and community involve...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the fitting and prescribing of multifocal contact lenses, focusing on strategies to serve presbyopic patients effectively. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient base, utilizing fitting guides, and making necessary adjustments to ensure patient satisfaction and drive referrals. The conversation highlights the significance of daily multifocal lenses and t...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of daily disposable contact lenses in optometry. He explores the benefits of these lenses, including health, convenience, and comfort, while addressing common patient concerns and compliance issues. Dr. Corte emphasizes the need for optometrists to transition patients to daily disposables and highlights the importance of innovation in contact lens technology...

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Gloria Chiu , an experienced optometrist in a hospital-based setting. They discuss Dr. Chiu's journey into optometry, her passion for specialty contact lenses, and the importance of networking and mentorship in building a successful career. Dr. Chiu shares insights on demonstrating value in the profession, advocating for dry eye awareness, and her aspirations for...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the importance of contact lens evaluation fees and how to effectively communicate their value to patients. He emphasizes the necessity of annual evaluations for contact lens wearers, the benefits of contact lenses, and the importance of educating patients about eye health. Dr. Corte also shares strategies for addressing patient concerns regarding fees and the significance...

In part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Adam Ramsey , he shares his journey through the challenges of starting his career in optometry, the struggles of practice ownership, and the importance of creating a unique patient experience. He reflects on the lessons learned from his experiences, emphasizing the need for resilience and transparency in both personal and professional life. Dr. Ramsey also dis...

In part 1 of our conversation, Dr. Adam Ramsey shares his journey from Trinidad to becoming a successful optometrist. He discusses the importance of work ethic, representation in the profession, and the challenges faced by new graduates. Dr. Ramsey also highlights the creation of Black Eye Care Perspective, a platform aimed at increasing diversity in optometry and supporting future optometrists. T...

Dr. Ryan Corte shares his personal journey through optometry school at Ohio State University. He discusses the decision-making process for choosing a school, the importance of living arrangements, the pressures of academic life, and the value of getting involved in extracurricular activities. Dr. Corte emphasizes the significance of mental health support, collaboration with peers, and leadership o...

Dr. Ryan Corte discusses the significance of attending in-person optometry meetings despite the convenience of online continuing education. He shares four key reasons for attending these meetings: the value of genuine networking, the benefits of hands-on learning, the potential for practice growth, and the opportunity to recharge and reconnect with one's passion for the profession. Dr. Corte empha...

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Anith Pillai , who shares his journey from engineering to becoming a successful optometrist and practice owner. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the challenges of starting a private practice, and the rewarding experiences of patient interactions, particularly in specialty eye care. Dr. Pillai emphasizes the need for passion in the profession and the importan...

Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Fallon Patel, an optometrist with a thriving multi-location practice in Canada. Dr. Patel shares her journey from being an immigrant child to becoming a successful optometrist, discussing her educational background, early career challenges, and the transition from Sears Optical to Lenscrafters. She emphasizes the importance of leadership, team development, and innovat...

In a conversation with Ankit Patel on the Optometrists Building Empires podcast , Dr. Ryan Corte shares his journey in optometry, emphasizing the importance of patience, flexibility, and resilience in building a successful practice. He discusses the challenges of managing staff, the significance of recruitment, and the impact of technological advancements in the field. Dr. Corte reflects on format...