Nerdy Optometrist

Hosted by Ukti Vora

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Whether you are an optometrist by accident or by choice, this podcast channel is meant for you. Hi! I am Ukti Vora, an Indian optometrist who bumped into this wonderful profession by accident and fell in love with it. My struggle from India to the USA inspired me to start this podcast channel for all the optometry enthusiasts out there. This podcast series is a one stop shop for students, fresh graduates and experienced eye care professionals who want to explore new opportunities. It has a group of speakers who share their real life experiences and important takeaway messages that will help you better understand the opportunities in the eye care profession around the world. I am happy to invite you to my nerdy journey in the world of Optometry.

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60 recent

June 3, 2026Episode 9332 min

93. Retina, Research & Impact with Dr. Samson Darrah

Recorded on World Optometry Day, this episode marks Dr. Samson's first-ever podcast appearance. He opens up about his journey from a personal family experience with glaucoma to managing a mobile eye care non-profit, and ultimately moving across the world to pursue high-resolution retinal imaging and genetics research.Top 5 Episode Highlights:The Spark: The personal family story that motivated Dr. Samson to dedicate his life to preventing blindness.Global Training Layouts: The distinct differences in scope, residency, and duration between optometric training in Ghana and the US.The Clinical Edge: Why a background in direct patient care provides a massive structural advantage when designing complex bioengineering solutions.SOTA Diagnostics: How combining genetic sequencing with tools like Adaptive Optics can help identify inherited retinal conditions before symptoms even show.Giving Back: Bringing free mobile clinics, glasses, and screenings to underserved communities through Eye Care Network International.Connect with our Guest:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samson-darrah/Eye Care Network International Website: https://www.theicarenetwork.org/Follow Nerdy Optometrist today!Make sure you never miss an episode by following us on youtube, www.nerdyoptometrist.com or subscribing on your favorite podcast app!Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are entirely their own and do not necessarily reflect the official stance of the host or associated institutions. Content is intended purely for educational and informational entertainment.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

April 20, 2026Episode 9223 min

92.Reflecting future vision with Dr. Ryan Corte

In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, I sit down with Dr. Ryan Corte, optometrist, multi-location practice owner, speaker, consultant, and host of the Ryan Reflects podcast.Dr. Ryan has built his career around a simple but powerful belief: that great optometry starts with great leadership. From running thriving practices tohelping fellow eye care professionals find their purpose and fulfillment, he's become one of the most inspiring voices in our profession today.In this conversation, we reflect on what it means to lead with intention, and why the future of optometry belongs to those who are willing to evolve. We also dive deep into one of the most talked-about topics in eye care right now: artificial intelligence. Dr. Ryan shares his honest take on AI, how he'susing it in his personal and professional life, and what he believes it means for the next generation of eye care professionals. In this episode, we dive into: • What drew Dr. Ryan to optometry and how his journey has evolved • The lessons that have shaped him most from his own podcast guests • Why strong leadership and culture are the foundation of a thriving practice • Moving past fear and finding opportunity in the age of AI • His favorite AI tools and how he's putting them to work • How AI could transform the future of eye care • His message to optometrists looking to grow, lead, and make an impact 🎮 We also play a quick round of "This or That" to know our guest little more personally. 🌐 Learn more about Nerdy Optometrist: https://www.nerdyoptometrist.com Connect with Dr. Corte & Ryan Reflects Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancorte/Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only.The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations. #FutureOfOptometry #EyeCareLeadership #AIInOptometry #VisionCare #OptometryPodcast #EyeCareInnovation #PodcastersOfOptometry #OptometryLifeSupport the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

March 23, 2026Episode 9147 min

91. Making Myopia Matter with Dr. Glenda Aleman

In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, I sit down with Dr. Glenda Aleman, internationally recognized myopia management and orthokeratology specialist, entrepreneur, educator, and global advocate for childhood vision health.Dr. Glenda first joined the podcast to talk about resilience and building a specialty practice. But in this special Women’s Day episode, the conversation evolves, from building a successful clinic to building a movement to fight the global myopia epidemic.As the CEO and founder of iSmart Vision Care and OK Love Myopia Control Experts, Dr. Glenda has spent years advancing early intervention and education around childhood myopia. Now, she’s taking that mission even further with the launch of the Myopia Brighter Futures Foundation (BFF) — a nonprofit focused on increasing awareness, education, and access to myopia prevention for children and families worldwide.In this episode, we dive into:• The mindset shift from building a practice to building a global mission• The biggest myths parents (and even doctors) still have about myopia• Why myopia should be treated as a public health issue• The vision behind the Myopia Brighter Futures Foundation• Leadership, advocacy, and the power of women driving change in healthcare• What the next 10 years of the myopia movement could look like🎮 We also play a fun “This or That – Future Vision Edition” where Dr. Glenda weighs in on the big debates shaping the future of eye care.🌐 Learn more about Nerdy Optometrist: https://www.nerdyoptometrist.comConnect with Dr. Aleman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenda-aleman-moheeputh/Disclaimer:This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your eye care professional for personalized guidance.#NerdyOptometrist #MyopiaManagement #ChildhoodMyopia #Orthokeratology #WomenInHealthcare #VisionHealth #EyeCareInnovation #PediatricOptometry #FutureOfEyeCare #MyopiaAwarenessSupport the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

February 12, 2026Episode 9038 min

90. Building Power Brands in Modern Optometry with Eugene Shatsman

In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, I sit down with Eugene Shatsman, Managing Partner of National Strategic Group (NSG), to talk about what it truly takes to build a thriving, future-ready optometry practice.With over 17 years of experience, Eugene is known for combining business strategy, consumer behavior research, and data-driven marketing to help practices grow smarter, not just bigger. Through NSG’s network of 100+ experts, he helps optimize everything from SEO and digital marketing to patient reactivation, reputation management, and growth strategy.✨ In our conversation, we explore:📈 Why marketing without strategy doesn’t work🔎 The real role of SEO in patient acquisition⭐ How online reviews influence modern consumer behavior📬 Why patient reactivation may be your biggest missed opportunity🔮 What leaders must prioritize to stay competitive in eye careIf you’re serious about practice growth, patient experience, and long-term sustainability in optometry, this conversation is for you.We also wrap things up with a "This orThat" game segment, where Eugene shared his favorite picks. To learn more about NSG visit: https://www.nationalstrategic.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugeneshatsman/If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Nerdy Optometrist so you never miss a conversation shaping the future of eye care.Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.#Optometry #PracticeGrowth #EyeCareBusiness #HealthcareMarketing #SEOforDoctors #DigitalHealth #PracticeManagement #NerdyOptometristSupport the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

January 23, 2026Episode 8935 min

89. AI that fits today with Colton Calandrella

In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, I sit down with Colton Calandrella, Co-Founder and CEO of Barti, for a conversation that goes beyond software and gets to the heart of why eye care technology needs a serious rethink.Colton is one of those rare founders who leads with both purpose and precision. Before Barti, he built software for Fortune 500 companies at Bain, launched an AI venture inside an accelerator, created a startup that reduced airport wait times, and even began his career as a teacher—supporting high school students in math and special education. That diverse journey deeply shapes how he’s approaching problems in eye care today.In our conversation, we explore:👁️ How Colton first found his way into eye care🚀 The story behind Barti and how the company got its name🤖 How AI is changing the day-to-day reality for eye care practitioners📉 What practices often underestimate about the cost of outdated EHR systems⚡ Common misconceptions about EHRs—and about Barti specifically📈 Real success stories and how easily practices can transition to modern systems🔮 What the future of eye care could look like when innovation is done rightWe also wrap things up with a rapid-fire round, where Colton shares founder habits, favorite reads, travel picks, and a few things you might not expect.🎁 Special Listener Perk: https://barti.com/nerdy-optometristBarti is offering something special for the Nerdy Optometrist community.👉 Use promo code NERDY, book a demo, and receive a $50 gift card.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow Nerdy Optometrist so you never miss a conversation shaping the future of eye care.Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.#EyeCareInnovation #AIinEyeCare #DigitalHealth #Optometry #HealthTech #StartupStories #NerdyOptometrist #BartiSupport the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

December 19, 2025Episode 8825 min

88. Mindful Leadership, Coaching & Eye Care with Dr.Melissa Barnett

In this episode of Nerdy Optometrist, we welcome Dr. Melissa Barnett — world-renowned optometrist, educator, author, certified coach, and host of the Clearly KC podcast.Dr. Barnett shares her journey from clinical excellence in dry eye disease, specialty and scleral lenses, keratoconus, and presbyopia to embracing coaching, mindful leadership, and wellness as a new avenue for impact.We discuss what inspired her transition, how mindfulness works in today’s competitive healthcare landscape, the real benefits coaching offers optometrists and professionals, and success stories from her clients. She also opens up about the challenges she faced while building this path and the lessons learned along the way.Recognized with honors such as the Legends Award, Scleral Lens Practitioner of the Year, and named one of Vision Monday’s Most Influential Women in Optical, Dr. Barnett continues to shape the future of eye care and leadership.Key Takeaways:• Dr. Barnett’s transition into coaching and mindful leadership• How wellness and leadership create sustainable success in practice• Real-world benefits of coaching for optometrists and professionals• Success stories, challenges, and honest lessons from her journey• A powerful final takeaway message for anyone seeking growth& more…And don’t miss the fun finale, our “This or That” game segment, where we get to know Dr. Barnett beyond the titles!Follow us for more inspiring conversations at the intersection of eye care, leadership, and innovation.You can explore all episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.comCheckout Alpine Blue Coaching to learn more : https://alpinebluecoaching.info/Disclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

November 18, 2025Episode 8759 min

87. Researching Smarter, Not Harder - AI Breakthrough with Dr. Gopinath Madeswaran

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Gopinath Madeswaran, an award-winning optometrist, clinician, educator, and researcher who has made remarkable contributions to the field of optometry and healthcare research. From being a gold medalist at the Elite School of Optometry and Manipal Academy of Higher Education to mentoring hundreds through Opto Research Consultancy Services, Dr. Gopinath’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.He shares how he first discovered optometry, his evolution from clinician to accomplished researcher, and what led him to establish his own research consultancy. Dr. Gopinath also opens up about his mission “to contribute to research, teaching, and impart evidence-based practice for healthcare professionals.”One of the most exciting parts of this conversation: how he embraced AI while many remain fearful of it — and how AI tools have transformed his work, productivity, and approach to research.Key Takeaways:Discover how Dr. Gopinath transitioned from clinician to respected researcher and mentorLearn why he chose to become a research consultant and how he built a thriving consultancyHear how embracing AI (instead of fearing it) has empowered his research and teachingInsights into his favorite AI tools and his vision for the future of research and optometryRoadblocks, reality checks, and honest lessons from his personal journey& more...Don’t miss the fun finale where we get to know Dr. Gopinath on a lighter note in our "Rapid Fire" segment!Connect with Dr. Gopinath at optoresearch2022@gmail.com.Follow us for more inspiring conversations.You can check out all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.comDisclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

October 27, 2025Episode 8525 min

86. Vision in Motion with Tsu Shan Chambers

In this episode, we sit down with Tsu Shan Chambers, a former optometrist who transitioned into acting, writing, and producing. Tsu Shan shares the inspiring journey of leaving a stable career in optometry to pursue a life in storytelling, the challenges of breaking into the film industry, and the creative process behind bringing My Eyes to life.Key Takeaways:- Learn how to pivot successfully from one career to a completely different path filled with passion.-The importance of vision, both literal and metaphorical in her creative work-Hear how it can help spread the word about eye care and more& more... Don’t miss the game segment where we get to know the lighter side of Tsu Shan Chambers , in our "Rapid Fire" game segment.🎬 Watch My Eyes here: https://www.amazon.com/My-Eyes-Angela-How/dp/B0DPY418HTFollow us for more inspiring stories and behind-the-scenes insights.You can check all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.comDisclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

June 18, 2025Episode 8534 min

85. Blink Twice If You Love AI with Dr. Rehan Ahmed

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rehan Ahmed, a board-certified ophthalmologist, healthtech innovator, and co-editor of AI in Eyecare published by Jobson. As the Chief Medical Officer at Blink by Global Medical, Dr. Ahmed brings a unique perspective at the intersection of clinical excellence and cutting-edge technology.We explore his multifaceted journey—from performing surgeries to scaling tech-driven solutions in eye care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, technologist, or someone curious about where vision care is headed, this episode offers valuable insights into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI in ophthalmology.Some of the episode highlights include;How Dr. Ahmed’s journey into eye care beganBalancing clinical ophthalmology with entrepreneurshipWhat sparked his passion for technology and innovationThe AI and diagnostic tools that excite him most todayMajor roadblocks faced along the way—and how he overcame them & moreDon’t miss the game segment where we get to know the lighter side of Dr. Ahmed, in our "Rapid Fire" game segment.Connect with Dr. Rehan Ahmed on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rehan-ahmed-md/You can check all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.comDisclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.

May 20, 2025Episode 8434 min

84. AI in focus: Vision, Impact, and Innovation with Dr. Masoud Nafey

In this insightful episode, Dr. Masoud Nafey, an optometrist, 3X tech founder, and strategic advisor, joins us to discuss the potential and power of artificial intelligence in transforming the future of eyecare. From building cutting-edge digital health tools to shaping global strategies at VSP and EssilorLuxottica, Dr. Nafey shares his journey, his perspective on the biggest breakthroughs in smart vision tech, and what eye care professionals need to know as the landscape rapidly evolves. This episode bridges clinical wisdom and AI innovation in a way only Dr. Nafey can.Some of the episode highlights are: 1. How a passion for people led him to optometry2. His journey from clinic to tech founder and global advisor3. What sparked his obsession with innovation and AI4. The one technology he’s most excited about right now5. How smart tech is reshaping the future of eyecare6. Key challenges holding back innovation& more. Don’t miss the game segment where we get to know the lighter side of Dr. Nafey, in our "This or That" game segment. Connect with Dr. Masoud Nafey at 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-masoud-nafey/You can check all other episodes at www.nerdyoptometrist.comDisclaimer: The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of any affiliated organizations.Support the showThanks for listening! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube and Facebook. Please leave me a review if you enjoyed my episodes.