Content, Inspiration, 
& New Ideas

To stay discoverable in an AI‑driven world, optical brands and professionals will need to shift from search engine optimization (SEO) to generative engine optimization (GEO). For the optical industry—where consumer decisions are increasingly shaped by digital research, peer recommendations, and clinical credibility—the new entry point for discovery is generative AI. Zero‑click results and AI‑summarized answers are transforming how patients, consumers, and industry partners fi

As we wrap up the launch year of the OWA Full Circle Mentorship Program , we’re proud to celebrate a year defined by connection, growth, and the power of women supporting women. What began as a vision at the 2023 OWA Unplugged Retreat has transformed into a vibrant mentorship initiative making a measurable impact across the optical industry. An Engaged Community: Over 30% Participation One of the most energizing outcomes from our first year is the tremendous level of member e

Did your Barbie ice cream shop come complete with detailed receipts? From the earliest days, there was genuine, personal delight in exploring the world of work. Understanding what adults were doing and why was endlessly fascinating. Designing merchandising materials, helping prepare orders and imagining the customers who would receive them created an early sense of pride and curiosity. So did small opportunities to help at home, learning what relatives were responsible for an

And just like that, we're at the end of the year. From professional development, to events attended, to personal insights — the OWA's year has been summarized in the weekly OWA Connects blog . A special thanks to our contributors throughout the year — OWA committee members , industry experts and sponsors — without you, this incredible content would not be possible. You are improving our community one blog post at a time 💗 These were the most popular articles of 2025: 10. Ou

The ClearVision-Adira Grant, founded in 2024 in partnership with the Optical Women’s Association, has quickly become a defining program supporting women’s growth and advancement across the optical industry. “The foundational role of my mother Mimi Friedfeld, as a founding member of the OWA, underscores ClearVision's deep-rooted commitment to supporting women in the optical industry,” David Friedfeld, co-owner and president of ClearVision, said. “This collaboration with the OW

The Individual Contributor program provides the opportunity for ANY individual to support the OWA and its mission of enhancing and promoting the leadership role of women in the optical industry through networking, education, and peer support. ​ Support from Individual Contributors directly funds the OWA Leadership Scholarship , an award granted to a board-nominated OWA member who has shown exemplary volunteer service in helping the OWA reach its goals. The recipient of this

Dear Me: At this stage in life and career, I thought you’d be past a few things. I thought confidence would replace nerves, efficiency...

Earning recognition for your drive, discipline, and deep commitment to excellence is impressive. You have likely built a meaningful...

When we share knowledge, we encourage collaboration and innovation. We learn from each other's experiences and insights, fostering...

There’s something powerful about stepping outside of your daily responsibilities and immersing yourself in another facet or area of your...

Looking for a job when you have a college diploma is hard enough; looking for a job when you don’t have a degree can be even harder....

Imagine if, instead of waiting to be asked, you — as a mentor — took the first step and said, “Would you like me to mentor you?” Rather...

A few years ago, I was promoted into a management role overseeing former peers. I’d been in supervisory positions before but never for a...

Have you uncovered the impact of an unexpected mentor? When are you planning to stop learning? I would bet my favorite pair of eyewear...

Do you ever have a song pop into your head when you least expect it? I get that little explosion of memory, and sometimes, along with the...

Years ago, we were introduced to the phrase "a pebble in your shoe” as being a catalyst for change. The concept was explored in the...

As part of my end of day ritual, I scrolled on my phone and saw ad after ad promising quick fixes, overnight weight loss, and rapid...

If you’ve logged onto the new OWA website, chances are you’ve seen the Community Corner Section! If you haven’t logged onto the...

And just like that, we're at the end of the year. From professional development, to events attended, to personal insights — the OWA's...

Knowledge-sharing fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing us to learn from one another's experiences and insights. This exchange...