The Depth Perception Podcast

We sit down with Dr. Danielle Richardson to discus her inspiring journey from clinician to practice owner while navigating the challenges and rewards of motherhood. She shares the story behind opening her own practice, the obstacles she faced as an entrepreneur in healthcare, and the lessons she learned while building a patient-centered business from the ground up.

In this episode, we bring on special guest Chris Lopez with ODs on Finance. The group discusses optometry statistics as well as how to prepare your career as an optometrist financially. Join us to discuss real-world issues and how to thrive beyond the exam room.

Join Dr. Svetlana Nunez and Dr. Douglas Akidi as they dive into the world of pre-optometry, sharing personal stories and tips for acing your optometry school interview. Discover the passion behind their journey and get inspired to pursue your own path in optometry!

Finding your people in optometry school! From awkward first labs to lifelong friendships, how shared struggles, late-night studying, and clinic days turn classmates into your support system. Let's talk about building real connections in a high pressure program.

This episode, with special guest Dr. Alexa Hecht, delves into the hidden truths about owning and building a private practice. Join this episode to understand the behind-the-scenes work that goes on to provide optimal patient care.

Are you questioning whether private practice or corporate is better? Curious about how patient volume impacts your burnout and income? Or wondering if living close to family is worth sacrificing higher pay? This episode uncovers practical insights on practice type, patient load, location, and benefits, giving you the clarity to make strategic decisions aligned with your personal goals.

Presbyopia drops are now everywhere, but so are the misconceptions. In this MythBusters style episode, Mark Schaeffer, OD, FAAO, breaks down three of the most common concerns Optometrists have about Qlosi: safety and efficacy, when and how to bring it up with patients, and whether it hurts optical sales. Spoiler alert: the data (and real-world experience) tell a very different story. Learn how Qlo...

In this episode from the Depth Perception podcast at Vision Expo West 2025, experts share real-life stories and practical tips for building genuine connections and negotiating contracts that align with your goals. Learn how to turn networking into your superpower and silence self-doubt while building a fulfilling career. Perfect for new grads and seasoned doctors alike, this episode offers the men...

In this episode, the team discusses practical strategies for managing situations when you're unsure of the best course of action in patient care. From leveraging professional networks to honest communication, these insights help build confidence and patient trust during uncertain moments.

Join us as we navigate the 'Dog Days' of life, balancing career, family, and personal growth, and many more!

In this end-of-year podcast episode, the hosts reflect on their favorite moments from the past year, discuss impactful takeaways from their experiences at Vision Expo, and share their thoughts on future topics and guests. Cheers to 2026!

In this episode, the hosts discuss future roles of AI in the optometry world. They highlight how it can affect patient care and what new technology could be available for patients.

In this episode, optometrist and influencer Shaminder Dhaliwal (@dappereyedoc) shares his journey from Winnipeg to Edmonton, discussing the challenges of starting a private practice during the pandemic. Discover insights on networking, overcoming imposter syndrome, and balancing personal passions with professional life.

Dr. Vitto Mena talks about how he got started in sports vision and his work with Special Olympics. He shares why networking, financial literacy, and investing in yourself matter so much for young ODs. Dr. Mena also offers practical tips on managing money and explains how his interest in photography has helped him connect with others in the optometry world.

Join us on the Depth Perception Podcast as we explore the dual roles of optometrists as both healthcare providers and empathetic listeners. Discover how empathy and rapport can transform a routine eye exam into a meaningful experience.

🎙️ In this insightful episode, join your fave 4 young ODs as they share advice tailored for optometry students at every stage of their journey. 👓 ✨ From navigating the challenges of first year 📚, to mastering clinical skills in second year 🩺, embracing rotations in third year 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️, and preparing for the professional world in fourth year 💼—this episode is packed with practical tips and r...

In this episode of the Sleepover Podcast 🛌🎙️, the hosts create a cozy, relaxed vibe reminiscent of a sleepover. They chat about their daily activities and share their excitement for the upcoming Vision Expo 👓. The conversation naturally flows into their career aspirations, parenting challenges, and future goals, all with a lighthearted tone. Along the way, they reflect on personal experiences, s...

In this engaging convo 🎙️, the hosts delve into the intricacies of patient education in optometry 👓, exploring various refractive errors, astigmatism, cataracts, and glaucoma. They hype up the importance of role-playing patient scenarios to level up communication skills and set realistic expectations for patients 🧑‍⚕️. The discussion highlights the need for clear explanations personalized to ind...

🎙 In this episode of The Depth Perception Podcast, we’re keeping it real about the optometry grind from surviving board exams to staying hyped about the hustle 🔥, and how your overall health affects your vision 💡 We’re answering your questions 💬, sharing our own ups and downs from opto school, and dropping helpful tips to help you level up. We’re also shedding light on what needs to change in t...

In this lively conversation 🎙️, the hosts explore the theme of alternate careers and personal aspirations, reflecting on what they might have pursued if not for their current profession in optometry 👓. They share humorous anecdotes 😂, discuss their creative side hustles, and highlight the importance of maintaining a balance between work and personal passions. The dialogue flows seamlessly from l...

In this episode, we’re unpacking the butterfly effect 🦋 —how even the smallest choices can completely change the direction of your life 🔄.We’re telling personal stories about how tiny, random moments ended up shaping our careers 💼 and relationships 💕 in big ways. It’s a reminder to stay open to the unexpected and to appreciate how the people around you 👥 can influence your path. Tune in and t...

🎙️ New Episode Drop! On this episode of the Deaf Perception Podcast , we sit down with Dr. Kristie Nguyen to talk all things LinkedIn, personal branding, and standing out in your professional space 💼✨ Dr. Nguyen shares why she chose LinkedIn over other social platforms and how being consistent, authentic, and a little bit vulnerable can seriously level up your presence. She dives into her unique...

In this episode of Depth Perception Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Ryan Corte for an in-depth conversation about the transition from student to practicing optometrist 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️. Dr. Nadia Afkhami, Dr. Jasdeep Soni, Dr. Doug Akidi, and newly graduated Dr. Svetlana Nunez share their perspectives on navigating the early stages of an optometry career — including understanding contracts 📝, evaluating c...

In this convo 💬, the 4 amigos spill the tea 🍵 on their optometry school journey 👁️📚. They get real about the struggles 😮‍💨—from wild exams to the mental toll 😵‍💫—especially during the whole pandemic mess 😷. Expectations vs. reality? Total plot twist 🤯. They highlight how clutch community support was 💕🫂 and share their go-to ways to cope with stress 🧘‍♀️✨. From board exam chaos 📝 to t...

Ready to land your dream job in optometry? In this episode, we’re breaking down the key moves you need to make it happen. From figuring out what really matters to you (spoiler: it’s not just the paycheck) to confidently negotiating offers and building connections that actually mean something — we’ve got you covered. We dive into why company vibes, personal growth, and overall job satisfaction shou...