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 team I used to sit on. You can imagine that from a personal perspective I was excited about the change and motivated to do well, but from a team dynamics perspective I was anxious about how to navigate the change in our relationship. I’m happy to report that while it was awkward at times, it was a positive and affirming experience. It became a transition that required setting boundaries to maintain both professional effectiveness and positive working relationships, but also a life-lesson in what to avoid along the way.   Lesson 1 – Relationships Will Look Different A shift in dynamic is the most fundamental change that comes when you switch from peer to manager. Assuming the relationship will remain the same can lead to confusion and conflict. You are no longer JUST a colleague — you are now responsible for their performance, guidance, and potentially their career growth. This inherently creates a power dynamic that didn't exist before. Some awkwardness during this initial transition is expected. They might feel unsure how to interact with you and you might feel uncomfortable exercising authority. The best way to overcome this is to acknowledge the change openly. Don’t pretend things are the same. To overcome this, I had direct conversations with each former peer individually to acknowledge the transition and discuss how our working relationship would need to evolve. While it may feel uncomfortable, having a frank conversation with your team about the change in your relationship dynamics levels the playing field. You know what their concerns are, and you can shift your management response to accommodate or field those concerns.   Lesson 2 – Avoid Favoritism   During those initial conversations one former peer expressed the loss of their "vent buddy”. We talked about how sharing frustrations and exchanging stories would need to take on a different tone. As a manager, I had access to information that my team members didn’t, including performance reviews, salary discussions, and strategic decisions. I couldn’t share everything that was going on like I used to, and they couldn’t gossip about peers and management to me.  My own manager advised me to still be approachable and maintain positive relationships but avoid giving preferential treatment to former friends. Setting this expectation early on helped us acknowledge that there would be change but we were aligned in how to manage it. I didn’t actually lose a friend, our relationship just took on a different tone.   Lesson 3 – Shift from Peer to Coach   In this new role it was important for me to be mindful of my interactions. I began to consciously shift my focus from being a peer to being a supportive manager. I still helped my team members navigate their challenges, but instead of commiserating I focused on developing their skills and celebrating their successes. A concept I found very helpful was "question thinking”. Question thinking refers to the practice of intentionally and strategically using questions to shape thoughts, behaviors, and outcomes. Instead of leading people to what you would do, you approach the situation from a place of curiosity and ask questions. As their manager, it wasn’t my role to fix problems, but rather allow my team to grow and fix their own problems with my support and backing. This was my shift from peer to coach.   Lesson 4 – Performance Management is Required   While you may have a history with this person, addressing performance issues is a crucial part of your responsibility. Don’t be afraid to manage underperformance. You need to succeed in your role just as much as they need to succeed in theirs. It will inherently always be a little uncomfortable. But discomfort is often a pre-requisite for growth. Actively providing regular feedback and open communication took some getting used to and required me to compartmentalize my own empathetic tendencies. In the end, however, this helped me avoid what could have appeared to be preferential treatment and shifted the focus on professional performance expectations instead of our relationship.   Lesson 5 – Choose How to Lead   You may be tempted to overcompensate the awkwardness by acting like a "big boss”. But trust me, an overly authoritarian approach could lead to resentment and damage relationships. Trust your instincts - the few times I pushed through awkwardness a little too far made me feel like I was giving orders rather than guiding and supporting my team. I was met with resistance and a positive outcome took longer than it needed to. The best step I took in this situation was to connect with other managers within the organization. They offered guidance and understanding as I navigated this new normal. Honestly, difficult conversations are never going to be my favorite part of this role, but transparency and directness helps the experience be more positive for everyone involved.   The transition from peer to manager is a delicate balancing act. But it is possible. Be mindful of the changing dynamics, set clear boundaries, and focus on leading your team effectively and fairly. If you do this, you can navigate this shift successfully and maintain positive working relationships. Written by: Holly Gough

Have you uncovered the impact of an unexpected mentor? When are you planning to stop learning? I would bet my favorite pair of eyewear that your answer would be never! Many professionals reinvent themselves more than once in their working years. Whether it is within the same career or endeavoring something completely different, our interests and passions change, as well as our talents evolve. From an early age, we encounter people who shape us in ways we may not even recognize at the time. Often associated with the early stages of a career when someone is new to a profession or workplace, the mentee seeks guidance from experienced experts. Later in life, however, mentorship often becomes more intentional. But mentorship isn't always formal. Think back to someone you may have admired as a child. At that time, you may not have understood the mentorship dynamic, but in fact, if their wisdom still influences you today, they were a mentor. When did mentor and mentee become part of our career verbiage? In the 1970’s mentoring started to materialize in professional and academic settings, particularly highlighted by the Harvard Business Review article "Everyone Who Makes It Has a Mentor.” Focused research on the role of mentorship and the impactful manner it affects career success helped popularize the idea in the U.S. I’ve had some of the greatest mentors in the industry—many of whom pushed me forward with tough love rather than grace. Being blessed, it is my father who is my most treasured mentor. These relationships afforded me the confidence early in life to not be afraid to ask questions, explore opportunities and not be fearful of the word “no.” I have hundreds of examples that I can fondly recall, where wisdom derived from my dearest mentor. When you discover a professional passion early in life, staying relevant requires continual reinvention. I was fortunate to find a career I loved. Four years into work, I had a realization as my friends were graduating from college, eager to embark on their own journeys. While I never questioned my chosen path, I knew I had to be intentional—whatever that truly meant at age 20—about shaping my future. Now, 46 years later, I remain proud of the career that has not only endured, but continues to inspire me. Don’t Fear Seeking Out a Mentor At this stage in my career—what I call rewiring, not retiring —I’ve found a renewed hunger for being a mentee. If you’re not actively seeking mentorship later in your career, start now! It can be one of the most powerful and rewarding steps toward growth, reinvention, and lasting fulfillment . Fast forward 45 years, and here I am, embracing the rewiring  phase of my journey. The key? Pushing myself outside my comfort zone—because that’s where doors open and opportunities arise. At first glance, it may seem like seasoned professionals should be the ones offering mentorship, not seeking it. But embracing the role of a mentee later in life can be an incredibly humbling and transformative experience. The professional world is constantly evolving, and no matter how much experience we accumulate, there is always more to learn. How to Seek Mentors Later in Your Career One of the greatest advantages of experience is knowing your strengths—and recognizing where you still have room to grow. Clarify Your Goals – Identify the skills or perspectives you need to hone, then seek out those who excel in those areas. Expand Your Network – The OWA is an incredible platform filled with talented professionals.  Whether they have served our industry for years or are brilliant minds that are newly joining the industry, seize the opportunity to leverage their expertise and learn from their experiences. Embrace Peer Mentorship – Learning isn’t just top-down. Exchange knowledge reciprocally with colleagues—everyone has something valuable to share. Stay Curious & Keep Learning – No matter how much experience you have, there’s always more to explore. Connecting with younger mentors is invaluable in so many ways. Strength In Asking: How Do You Do It? Being open to mentorship later in your career isn’t a sign of weakness; for me it has been one of the most rewarding roads I have traveled in years.  I simply ask:  I have many women that I am in awe of and know that not engaging would be my only mistake. There are some gifts that have been received without asking. When someone reached out to me and asked “What is going on with you? I sense there is something beautiful and special you are creating, how can I help?”  Acknowledge what skills you seek to sharpen, identify those who excel in them specifically, and don’t be afraid to ask. Engage, learn, and embrace the power of rewiring your career. You got this and just remember, rewiring and remodeling something built on a solid foundation is progress. Interested in mentorship? The OWA offers a Full Circle Member Mentorship Program , designed to support professionals whether they are entering the field, navigating mid-career transitions, or reflecting on years of experience. Written by Karen Michaelson

Let's be honest, eyewear shopping doesn't usually top anyone's list of "most fun things to do on a Thursday." However, you have the power to change that with a killer frame show at your optical practice. Done right, a frame show can be part party, part shopping spree, and a major revenue booster — all in one stylish afternoon. Whether you’ve done a few frame shows or are just getting started, here’s a guide to making your event a total success.   Step 1: Bring in the Right Frame Rep (Your Secret Weapon)   Your frame rep can make or break the vibe. Choose someone who is:   Personable and excited to be there (no sleepy reps allowed) Knows their product inside and out Willing to bring goodies — like giveaways, displays, special editions, or even folding tables!   Pro Tip : Ask about sales incentives.  Can you get a discount or free frames if you hit a certain number of units sold? Split or extended billing terms? Half off a set of lenses when a patient purchases two pairs? That kind of inside scoop can give you and your patients more value. Everyone wins!   Step 2: Choose the Right Brands (Pull, Don’t Push)   Pick brands people recognize. Think: fashion-forward, on-trend, and fun to try on. A "pull" brand — one that your patients already want — is easier to sell than a "push" brand that needs a 5-minute backstory.   Stay updated on what’s  in  right now. Who was the hottest designer at Fashion Week? What styles are trending? Curate your collection based on the moment. Lurk on Instagram or go incognito to another optical — whatever you have to do!   Step 3: Market It Like It’s the Event of the Year   This is not the time to be shy. Spread the word far and wide:   Send printed RSVP invitations to patients (yes, snail mail — it feels special!) Post fun countdowns, sneak peeks, or "save the date” graphics on social media. Let your patients know in the office during every appointment, by word of mouth and banners. Give a special gift to the first 20 people who RSVP. Everyone loves free stuff—and it creates urgency.   Important note: Have the RX of whoever RSVPs printed with notations of their last order, like what they purchased and their PDs. This is great for when you need to price them out on the fly.   Step 4: Set the Mood — It’s a Party!   This isn’t just another day at the office, it’s an event. Set the tone:   Time it right : 2 PM to 6 PM allows people to come after school or work. Appearance matters : Your decor should match your chosen brand’s story. You wouldn’t hang up paper soccer balls for a Prada frame show. Offer treats + drinks : Think mocktails, mini desserts, custom cookies… whatever! Keep them bite sized.  Your rep doesn’t need food all over their frames and you don't need it all over your floor either. Dress it up : Ditch the scrubs and dress to impress! Involve all your staff , not just the opticians. Hire a photographer : Snap pro photos to post online, use in marketing, or just capture the fun.   Step 5: Prep Your Team for Showtime   Meet ahead of time to go over everyone’s role:   Best at styling? Put them on the sales floor. Detail-oriented and fast at the computer? They’ll handle the checkout. People person? They can greet guests and manage raffles. Bonus Tips : Treat your staff to lunch before the event — a happy team brings good vibes. Make sure they’re trained on the brand(s) in advance. Give everyone a cheat sheet with pricing, promotions, and key selling points.   Step 6: Offer Real, Can’t-Resist Deals   A true frame show needs juicy discounts. I suggest: *At least 30% off a complete pair. More if they purchase a second pair. Raffles, giveaways, and prize baskets (free frames? gift cards? go big!) Flash sales during the event (ex: "Next 10 buyers get a bonus gift.”  Or, "Bring a friend and get an extra 10% off if they purchase too!”).  Get creative.   These deals help drive momentum and keep the energy up throughout the day. Step 7: Keep Track and Build For Next Year  After the event: Make a list of all attendees (RSVPs + walk-ins). Save that list — these are your VIPs for next year’s show!   You’re building more than a one-day event. You’re creating an annual tradition your patients (and staff!) will look forward to and talk about.   My last bit of advice is to plan  months  in advance, so you're not rushed or overwhelmed. And above all, go big, have fun, and let your love of fashion and frames shine. Written by: Kendra Katchko

Planning for success in your career is a lot like planning for a big trip. Imagine you finally decide to take that “bucket list vacation” ….   You’ve dreamt about it for years, selected your destination, spent hours weighing all the options and getting advice from friends, travel bloggers and maybe even a travel agent – shopped, packed, and readied yourself for the journey.  Your career is a lot like that trip. Having an itinerary (or gameplan) is critical, and relying on trusted resources to make the most out of your experience is a must – those trusted resources in your professional inner circle are your Mentors, Coaches, and Sponsors and each play a unique role in guiding your career. So, what’s the difference between Mentors, Coaches, and Sponsors? Where can you find them and how can you become one?? How do you define a “mentor”? We all have vivid memories of powerful relationships with friends, coaches, teachers, and managers whose advice and support moved us in new directions. These are our mentors – the ones who say “I’ve been there! Let me help.” I was 19 when a family friend (and one of my first mentors), helped me choose a college major and guided me towards a career in sales….in my 30’s, when I had my first child and struggled to balance the demands of my career and a new family, I turned to other mentors who were working moms ….and when I made the move to the Optical Industry a decade later, it was experienced colleagues and new mentors who made important introductions and offered support to navigate the change.  Mentors give us comfort that we’re not on the journey alone – we turn to them when we’re searching for answers and need support, and their wisdom, experience, and genuine desire to help moves us forward with confidence. Mentors are truly the lifeblood of our careers. Given the complexities of life today, having a solid network of mentors, each playing a unique role, is more critical than ever – thanks to social/professional networking and virtual events like the programs offered by the OWA , we have many opportunities to establish and nurture these vital relationships.  To make the most of mentoring, take time to invest in and build the relationship, express gratitude for your mentor’s support and keep them informed of how their advice helped you. There is nothing more gratifying for a mentor then to know they’ve positively impacted your journey in some way. What’s the difference between a mentor, coach, and sponsor? A MENTOR is someone we look to for guidance. Our conversations leave us feeling fulfilled and inspired. Mentors are the heart and soul of our support system. If you’ve ever played sports, you know how vital a great COACH can be – they help improve your skills, score goals, win games, and build confidence. Coaches are there to help you perform at your best and prepare for gameday. Coaches in your professional network serve a similar role – they ask the tough questions and help you find the answers. They assess performance, provide direct feedback on how you can improve, and they help you develop the hard and the soft skills needed to be successful. While mentors are our support system, coaches drive you to be your best self. If you’re looking to advance in your career, take on a new assignment, or find the next big opportunity, then a SPONSOR is gold. Sponsors believe in your potential, open doors to new opportunities and help make things happen for YOU.  A simple way to sponsor someone you have confidence in is to recommend them when opportunity comes your way. I’ve always believed that every call from a colleague, recruiter, or search firm is a chance, not just to build a relationship myself, but also to connect people I know, to what could be a wonderful career move for them.  Simply put, a sponsor is someone who advocates for you when you’re not in the room. To summarize the unique role each plays on your career journey: Mentors => Provide Support/Advice Coaches => Drive Performance Sponsors => Unlock Opportunities How do you know which type of support you need? Like all journeys, careers ebb and flow through various stages, each requiring different types of relationships. These stages can include Growth/Discovery, Leadership, and Transition, to name a few.  Mentors are essential early on in our careers when we’re in Growth/Discovery mode – as we learn new skills, take on assignments, and grow professionally we lean on our Mentors for their wisdom and experience to navigate the unknown. Sponsors are also important as they see your potential and have confidence recommending you for bigger roles. As leaders, our impact is felt across the teams we manage and the organizations we’re part of and the stakes are much higher. While having a well-rounded support system of Coaches, Mentors, AND Sponsors is essential to navigate these complexities. Coaches are especially important to provide direct feedback when others may be reluctant to do so, build self-awareness, and prepare you for broader responsibilities.  During periods of transition (career change, retirement, reinvention, etc.) Mentors act as a sounding board and help build you up, while Sponsors are key to unlocking new opportunities. How can you find or ask someone to be a mentor, coach, or sponsor? Your network is already filled with people you lean on for advice and who are always willing to lend a hand (and an ear). These are your people! If you’re looking to expand your mentors even further, start with people you know and who know you. People who inspire you, who you respect, and who you’d like to learn from. Build a genuine relationship and don’t be afraid to ask for support. Start with something as simple as: “I really enjoyed your presentation today and would love to learn more about how you’ve navigated your career. I’m thinking about my next steps and want to understand what it takes to be successful. Would you be up for a coffee some time so I could learn more?”  Follow up, say thanks, and always be respectful of your mentor’s time.  Need a coach to give you feedback on your performance or to prepare for your next big presentation? Ask your manager or a senior colleague for input and then get their feedback on how you can improve. Want a more formal coaching experience? Research leadership development programs at your company or externally, through management institutions or colleges /universities, which can be done online or in person. To earn a sponsor’s support, be known for doing great work, establish yourself as a positive ‘can-do’ leader, and be sure your contributions are known. Remember, sponsorship isn’t given – it’s earned. If there are key people whose support you need for that next promotion, ask for their feedback on your readiness and don’t be afraid to take on new projects where you can SHINE! How do you maintain these relationships? Building connections and fostering relationships at work and in life is as essential as the air we breathe. Relationships thrive when your intentions are genuine and when you invest the energy to make them work. Always show your gratitude to people in your inner circle for the time, advice, and support they’ve provided and look for ways to pay it forward by doing the same for others in their career.  Make a commitment to establish 1 new relationship at each OWA networking event – someone you can learn from or that you can support – and before you know it, you’ll have a village of women alongside you on the journey! Looking for more ways to stay connected with OWA members? RSVP for upcoming events. Written by: Holly Rush

Early in my career, my manager took me out to lunch and told me: “I’m here for you and your career. So, whether that’s supporting you as you work towards your goals and aspirations at [current company], or if (and when) you decide to leave and pursue other opportunities, I want to be a resource to you.” She added that she didn’t want anything from me in exchange for this support but that it’s important that I pay it forward and help others navigate their careers too. This conversation changed our relationship, from manager and managee, to mentor and mentee, because I now knew that she was invested in my career as a whole — not just my performance in my current position. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor others, and I’ve found that being a mentor can be just as rewarding as being a mentee. Benefits of Having a Mentor Career Support : Managing your career can be confusing and complicated, but a mentor can help you figure out your long-term goals and guide you on how to reach them. Should you stay in your current role? Do you need to expand your network? Is this a position that will help you to achieve your short- or long-term goals? Mentors can help you make informed decisions. Perspective : Forming a relationship with someone with more work and life experience means you have access to knowledge and ideas that you wouldn’t otherwise. Mentors may be able to shed light on a topic, provide new information, or validate your experience.    Safe Space : When you’re feeling conflicted, or managing a challenging situation at work/in your career, it’s invaluable to have someone you can turn to for sound advice. They’ll be able to provide recommendations based on their own experience and knowledge that keep your best interests in mind. Well-Being : Finding a good balance between your work/career aspirations and taking care of yourself can be hard. Whether you need guidance around managing/preventing burnout, creating a stronger work-life balance, or managing a health condition in the workplace, mentors can help you create a plan of action that addresses your needs. Benefits of Being a Mentor Perspective : Building a relationship with someone from a different age or background can broaden your knowledge and understanding of the diversity in the workforce. Ultimately, this understanding will enable you to successfully work with a more diverse pool of people. Personal Satisfaction: Helping another person to learn and grow may be the only benefit you need from a mentorship. Knowing that your experience – including your mistakes, lessons learned, and victories – can help another person to further their career and goals is empowering and gratifying. Build Your Team/Profession: If your mentee is at your organization, their growth ultimately benefits your entire team. And even if they aren’t on your team, your mentee’s improved performance is a great asset to the profession. Who knows – they may end up hiring or supporting you someday! Pay-It-Forward: We all needed help, support, and guidance to get to our current positions. To express thanks to those who helped you on your career path, you can support others in the way you were or would have wanted to be helped. Mentorship helps career trajectory, offers guidance, fresh perspectives, and a safe space for growth. Whether you’ve been a mentor, mentee, or are considering stepping into of these roles, reflect on the impacts these relationships have had or could have on your journey. How has mentorship shaped your path, and how might you pay it forward? Embrace the cycle of learning and empowering others in your professional life. Written by Christina Burns

In optometry, it can feel like the path to career advancement is mostly about gaining technical expertise. But the truth is, those skills are just one part of the equation. For women in optical fields, having a mentor can be one of the most powerful tools to help foster both personal and professional growth. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to have mentors who helped me see my potential and push me toward growth. I became who I am because of the people in my life – most notably, my grandparents, who I believe were integral to my character development. They taught me how to envision your own path, and if that path isn’t available, create it, and always strive to make a difference for others. That foundation has been the bedrock of my career, especially in how I view mentorship and its role in career advancement. With that foundation in mind, here are a few ways mentorship can help transform your career: Accelerates growth – Having someone in your corner, cheering you on, or providing honest feedback can unlock doors to new opportunities that might otherwise remain closed. Mentors offer not only wisdom but also a network of connections, insights, and encouragement to take that next big leap. Builds mutual trust and commitment – A strong mentor-mentee relationship thrives on mutual trust and shared goals. It’s essential to seek a mentor who aligns with your career aspirations, shares your values, and isn’t afraid to challenge you to grow. For those mentoring, remember your experience can have a lasting impact on someone else’s trajectory. Creates life-changing moments – Early in my career, I served as a Lieutenant at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. During that time, I learned how a single moment—whether through a mentor’s guidance or a shared experience—can change the direction of your entire career. These extraordinary moments, where wisdom and growth intersect, have the power to transform lives. Cultivates future leaders – Early in my career as a clinical extern program director, and now through my work with optometrists at various career stages, I’ve come to recognize the importance of identifying and cultivating talent. Mentorship is about more than just offering advice—it’s about cultivating leadership in others, helping them gain the knowledge and skills to lead confidently in their field. Whether in formal or informal settings, the ability to help others navigate their career paths is one of the most rewarding aspects of mentorship. Inspires a greater impact – Mentorship inspired me to leave private practice and take on a larger role at Bausch + Lomb. Though it was a difficult decision at that time, I quickly realized that joining Bausch + Lomb would offer the opportunity to work on a global level and help thousands of providers all around the world meet their patients' needs. Through mentorship, we create a ripple effect, improving entire fields by supporting and uplifting the next generation of leaders. Whether you aspire to a career in optometry or something else entirely, never do anything halfway. Always challenge yourself to be better and seek new ways to grow. When you find that purpose – that moment of clarity – and use your abilities to make a real impact on others, that’s when you receive the ultimate gift: the ability to transform lives through mentorship. Written by: Jill Saxon, OD, FAAO , and Executive Director, Professional Strategy at Bausch + Lomb

Artificial intelligence (AI) is touching every industry and eyecare is no exception. It's pretty wild to think about how much potential AI has to change how we get our eyes looked after, especially with telehealth becoming such a big deal. While there are many in-person applications for AI, we need to anticipate how service delivery will grow to meet shifting market expectations, including the future of telehealth.   A Look Back at the Evolution of Telehealth Thinking back, telehealth really became an option when we were trying to serve healthcare deserts. Then in 2020, as we faced a global pandemic, it grew rapidly as a solution for delivering essential health services when physical locations faced closures. The continued demand from both providers and patients has now solidified telehealth’s ongoing role within the contemporary medical landscape. Nonetheless, this remote modality of treatment and services has been a subject of ongoing discussion in both eyecare and healthcare. While some maintain that telehealth cannot fully replicate in-person care, others embrace its potential to provide care for patients with limited access or those who may not otherwise seek in-person consultation. My own experience during the pandemic involved a transition to a remote medical professional, and even when in-person services resumed in 2022, I opted to continue with telehealth for its convenience. Beyond personal preference, many individuals in remote healthcare deserts still rely on telehealth offerings to receive necessary services. Furthermore, regulatory changes, such as allowing a broader range of clinicians to bill Medicare for telehealth services and permitting telehealth from any location (including patients' homes), have significantly expanded patient access and provider willingness.   Receptiveness to AI So what role does the emergence of AI play in telehealth? AI is a broad field of computer science focused on creating machines that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, like learning, reasoning, and problem-solving. It involves designing algorithms and systems that can learn from data, adapt to new situations, and make predictions or decisions based on that knowledge. While the concept used to be part of science fiction, technological advances and intelligent AI training have allowed nearly anyone to access AI tools in their daily lives. What used to be feared is now becoming more acceptable. According to the Journal of Optometry , optometrists reported an increase in their inclination towards incorporating AI into practice, from 53.3% before the COVID-19 pandemic to 65.5% afterward. Optical providers are demonstrating increasing receptiveness to utilizing AI in telehealth due to its capacity to not only enhance patient access to care (the goal during the pandemic) but also to improve diagnostic accuracy and streamline practice workflows (bonus!).   Applications of AI in Teleoptometry AI-driven  teleophthalmology platforms  are software and hardware systems that use AI to enhance how patient services are delivered. These platforms leverage AI algorithms to analyze images of the eye, assist with triage, and even automate administrative tasks.   Image Analysis AI algorithms possess the capability to analyze images of the eye, such as fundus photographs and optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans, to identify indicators of various ophthalmic diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. A 2024 publication by the National Institute of Health (NIH ), indicated that the application of AI algorithms for the interpretation of retinal images, when compared to clinical data and physician expertise, presents an innovative solution. They report demonstrated accuracy in detecting numerous ophthalmic and non-ophthalmic disorders. Remote Triage AI can also facilitate patient triage through the use of chatbots and questionnaires to ascertain the urgency and type of care required based on initial assessments. This can potentially alleviate the demands on in-person consultations. A relevant example of earlier AI applications in ophthalmology is detailed in a study  comparing the responses of large language models to patient queries in an online medical forum with those of ophthalmologists. The study compared responses from ChatGPT with those provided by ophthalmologists affiliated with the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). This comparison revealed that the AI's guidance did not significantly differ from that offered by human ophthalmologists in terms of accuracy or safety. To me this means that AI has the potential for reliable patient engagement in non-critical informational contexts. Automated Tasks The integration of AI within EHR platforms enables the automation of tasks such as appointment scheduling, documentation, billing, inventory management, and the generation of patient education summaries. AI assistants can manage clinical note-taking, update patient histories and streamline billing and coding procedures. AI-driven systems can also manage appointment scheduling, verify insurance eligibility, and process claims.   Implications for Patient Care The integration of AI into teleoptometry is poised to significantly reshape ophthalmic care. By automating routine administrative functions, enhancing diagnostic precision, and improving patient access, AI is streamlining workflows and enabling ophthalmologists to dedicate more focus to the delivery of high-quality patient care. It’s been a long time coming but as AI technology continues its advancement, its role within ophthalmology will likely expand, further transforming the provision of eye care services and contributing to improved patient outcomes. I can’t wait to see what the future looks like. Written by: Holly Gough

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 song, I’ll suddenly think of someone I haven’t seen in years or recall a memory I couldn’t conjure up on demand if I tried. That happened to me last week, but instead of a song, it was a book: Everything I Needed to Know I Learned in Kindergarten. The title struck me when I first heard it back in university, a time when I thought I was really  learning the important stuff — getting ‘ready’ for adulting. The book seemed a bit cheeky, maybe even ridiculous. Surely, we outgrow those childish notions as we become wise responsible adults, right? Lately, I’ve come to see the truth in it. Growing up in my family, the pursuit of education was everything. We were always asked what we wanted to be and what subjects we liked. I had answers ready, and they were genuine: Gym class. Language Arts. Recess. And oddly enough, those three ‘subjects’ have quietly shaped my life ever since: Gym Class Movement has always mattered. I’ve had a running phase, a yoga phase, and a weightlifting phase. These days, I just like to sweat, challenge myself, and feel strong. I think I’ll always have a gym-class mentality. Language Arts Reading and writing were my thing and still are. I lead book clubs, devour everything from mythology to self-improvement, and feel like reading is gym class for the mind. Storytelling, both consuming and creating it, grounds me. Recess I love to play. I like to gather people, make connections, laugh, and let go. Whether it's games, walks, or unstructured time with friends, the most meaningful bonding happens when things are casual. I’ve grown. I’ve changed. I make better decisions about my health, time, and people. But I’ve also stayed the same in the ways that matter. And maybe that’s  the point. You don’t always have to change to grow. Sometimes, real growth comes from honoring who you’ve always been. It turns out that everything I needed to know was planted back in kindergarten. I just had to live enough to recognize it. Written by: Maria Petruccelli

Gen Z and young Millennials aren’t just the next generation of eyewear consumers, they’re already shaping the way healthcare and retail brands communicate. Raised in a mobile-first, swipe-driven world, Gen Z not only expects speed and convenience, but ethical, authentic, ethics, and personalized service — all in the world they live in: TikTok and Instagram, from influencers and value-first branding. It’s time to future-proof your marketing strategies to align with Gen Z as they define the new standard for digital engagement and consumer behavior. By understanding how and where this next wave of decision makers is interacting, optical brands can shift from being overlooked to being Gen Z’s go-to choice. A common concern in our industry is that established clinics with loyal (and typically aging) patient bases are struggling to attract younger demographics. Despite decades of success, something’s no longer clicking. The good news? Recognizing this pattern is an important first step. Awareness creates opportunity to adapt, evolve and stay relevant… the alternative is to remain stagnant until the old ways no longer hold up. Welcome to the Swipe Economy With 67% of Gen Z using Instagram as a search engine  and their attention spans averaging just 8 seconds, scroll behavior is now overtaking search behavior for many consumers. Their world is visual-first, audio-optional and driven by peer trust. If your main marketing or communication tactic has been to publish long-form, in-depth blog articles and ensure your website is running smoothly, that’s great, but it is now time to rethink your approach (and no, please don’t panic and delete your blog!). There is still value in many of the initiative’s practices have in place, but the name of the game is now diversifying and revamping some of those efforts. The New Standard: What Gen Z Expects It’s time to strategize ways to lean into authenticity, speed, convenience, ethics and personalization over promotion. Consumers are now demanding real faces and real stories, not just polished brand talk. It’s those team highlights and behind the scenes social media shares that are showing the best engagement. Speed and convenience are the expectation, not the bonus. It’s not enough to have a “Request Appointment” form on your website; you need seamless appointment booking, SMS prompts to re-order contacts and fast responses on social channels. If you can be at the forefront of offering a frictionless experience, you will be on the winning team — just ask a little business named Amazon that offers next day delivery. Many Gen Z’s are looking to align and support brands offering sustainability, inclusivity or social consciousness. Why can’t that be you? Feature vendor or clinic initiatives around environmental responsibility, inclusivity in frame design or community engagement! As Jacqueline Thomas so eloquently pointed out in The Power of Sponsorship Marketing , “ When your business is active in giving, it shows your customers and prospects that you care.” If you can share authentically and show you are active in being a socially conscious brand, you’ll go from no-show to show stopping for this generation that is specifically searching for brands with heart. And finally, make it personal! Despite all the buzz and excitement around AI and tech, people still want that human touch and to feel seen. Customized frame recommendations, curated content and niche marketing is overpowering generic promotional messaging. Speaking to those ’micro-niches‘ instead of mass-market messaging is taking patient experience and brand representation to the next level. In fact, according to the World Economic Forum, 44% of Gen Z are willing to share personal health information for more detailed insights , indicating an extremely strong preference for personalized healthcare experiences. What this Means for ECPs and Suppliers: For Clinics: Invest in social-first content and partner with micro-influencers to tap into local opportunity. Many practices become frustrated at the mention of the importance of social media, but the fact is that it’s here to stay!  Embrace it or offboard it to a team member that can run with it! Stop ’selling‘ and start showing! Patients want to see your team, the experience, and not just be fed a line about the latest and greatest service. Use data analytics to tailor marketing messages and product recommendations to give a truly personalized experience. For Vendors: Help ECPs with plug-and-play mobile-optimized content that they can customize. Build resources in Canva to allow clinics to add in their own imagery or tweak the branding of the assets – don’t just blast out the same thing and then wonder why no one is using it or why it’s falling flat. Innovate with frame brands that speak to identity or campaigns centered on causes, not just collections. Get deep with that brand messaging and lean into those differentiating factors (especially when they’re able to showcase an ethical initiative). For the Industry: The winners will be the ones who adapt fast and learn how to speak natively to Gen Z users on the platforms they value. Put your own bias aside and see what can be done to better connect with this emerging crowd. Those who don’t take the risk will ultimately risk becoming invisible, no matter how great their team, practice, product or offering is. The Swipe-First Future is Now and Ready for You To reach Gen Z, eyewear brands need more than a new marketing plan; they need a new mindset that prioritizes personality over polish, speed over stillness, and relevance over repetition. In a day and age where your first impression is a 6-second swipe, every scroll is a chance to either connect or disappoint. The next generation eyewear patient is awaiting your expertise, is your business prepared to meet them on their terms? Written by Shelbi Bernhard

I was one of four boys and when my mother spoke, we listened. While we loved our father, it was her day-to-day life lessons, stories and advice we listened closely to and most shaped who we are today. My mother was friend to all, had and shared her opinions, gave everyone space to be an individual and taught us to stand on our own two feet. This strong example of female leadership turned out to be a through line from my personal to professional life. In my nearly thirty-five-year career, thirty of those years have been spent working for and under the leadership of a woman. Each of these women built on the lessons I learned as a child and to my benefit, created opportunities for me to learn, lead, grow and thrive. My first job was as a case manager in social services, and I was determined to go against type and be the most extraverted and popular employee at the company. My boss at the time, Brenda, watched people gather around my desk planning the next happy hour, and saw how miserable I looked. She reminded me that fulfillment could only truly come if I could be my authentic self. My next job at a public affairs agency, a job I had zero qualifications for, was ripe for disappointment and an early exit. But I was fortunate that my boss, Kassy, took the time at the end of each day for the first three months and walked me through the fundamentals of the job, allowing my skills to grow and catch up to the others in the office. Since joining VSP Vision over 22 years ago, I have been lucky to report to female leaders for nearly the entire time. Each leader has encouraged, challenged, advocated and trusted me to build and lead teams for the benefit of the enterprise. It is through the leadership of women that I learned to hire people not just by the accomplishments highlighted on a resume but on the content of their character. It is through the leadership of women, that I have done what I can to set others up for success. It is through the leadership of women that I have learned there is not one way to approach a job and allowing a person to bring their individuality to a role is a benefit to the company. Today, the Global Corporate Communications leadership team is 75% brilliant women who are guiding teams and shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Many women once members of the department have flourished with promotions in other parts of the enterprise and outside of the company. I am proud to see the impact all have on the businesses they lead and doing it in their own, unique ways. Written by Pat McNeil

You can hear the enthusiasm for an upcoming Vision Expo across the optical industry from coast to coast. The feelings of excitement begin climbing months before these much-anticipated events. The most recent Vision Expo East was another example of why there’s such eagerness for these celebrations of our industry. You may ask yourself, “Why should I attend this tradeshow?” Well, it’s simple. The optical industry is one that is so warm, welcoming, and fashion-forward. The experience begins the moment you walk through the Javits Center doors and are greeted with smiling faces and see eye-catching frames everywhere you look. The warmth comes from the fact that you can’t turn a corner without seeing someone hugging someone they are excited to run into. Lots of hugs happen here on the show floor, and many more occur at the intimate OWA gatherings. There is something to be said about the optical industry’s love running thick across so many businesses, large and small, present for this special week-long event. It’s a feeling attendees say is like seeing friends that you can pick up with where you last left off. OWA Champagne Breakfast Celebrating Women in Leadership On Thursday morning there’s the OWA Champagne Breakfast, which to many has become the unofficial kickoff of Vision Expo. This year, three amazing women were honored for their hard work and contributions to the optical industry. You could feel the energy across the room as we celebrated these women and future women to join the leadership force. During this breakfast, Dr. Beverly Bianes received the Pyxis Award, Karen Roberts accepted the Pleiades Award, and Talia Bruno was presented the Emerging Leader Award. The audience loved hearing from these women what forces drove them toward their successes. It truly was an impactful start to the day. Attending this event allows for opening networking doors across the optical industry. If you plan to attend Vision Expo East in the future, this should be on your bucket list of must-do’s . Where else would you see pillows with the faces of the award recipients on them? Watch the Recording from the Champagne Breakfast Annual Star Award Cocktail Reception & Networking Event On Friday, OWA hosted the Annual Star Award Cocktail Reception & Networking Event. This gathering is another worth attending for the joy of connecting off the show floor. The faces say it all when you strut through the event, and green was definitely a common theme with this year’s gathering occurring on St. Patrick’s Day. The event is full of fun and encouragement. Take a look at the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEE here. Whether you go to catch up with optical friends, learn what is new from a former colleague, or discuss business needs you can partner together on, this is a great place to make it happen. It’s a brief evening event to celebrate both members and hopefully future OWA members to join a network of like-minded women with a similar goal. Career Zone Student Lounge On Saturday afternoon, OWA members, students, and young professionals were welcomed to attend a moderated presentation on Life, Work, and Balance in the Eyecare industry. The event was dynamic as we heard from leading optical companies such as MyEyeDr, National Vision, Vision Source, Walmart, and Warby Parker. Students were engaged and listened in to hear what these organizations offer to professionals seeking opportunities in the eyecare field. The cherry on top was the opportunity to enjoy ice cream and socialize with companies attending the event. All in all, OWA had great attendance at these exciting events and so much positive feedback for how energy-packed each activity was. Well, that’s a wrap, and we hope to see you again next year. Take a look at the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEE here. Written by: Madalyn Moeller

Once again, the industry gathered in Las Vegas for Vision Expo West and from the start to the finish the OWA was there connecting, inspiring, and leading with purpose. Before the show officially began, the OWA board met and welcomed four new members and our new President, Dr. Lorie Lippiatt, chaired her first meeting with a focus on the future and what can be imagined for the OWA. Take a look at the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEW here. Connection Series: The Rally Mentality Thursday the OWA hosted another sold-out Connection Series luncheon with guest speaker, Shannon McKain. Shannon’s five-step “RALLY Mentality” plan can help anyone define and defeat perceived limitations, whether self-imposed or the result of circumstances. Sponsored by VSP, this event energized attendees and reminded us to get R eal about identifying our goals and how we can achieve them. take A ction because “nothing happens until something moves”, be a lifelong L earner (including teaching several “volunteers” how to be a cheerleader), focusing on self L eadership, and saying Y es to challenge. Take a look at the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEW here. Friday Networking and Raffle Friday night the OWA hosted the annual Friday networking reception. EyeMed Vision Care sponsored the evening’s refreshments, and OWA sponsors donated items for the raffle and online auction. One of the best events to network and win big in Vegas, the event consistently raises funds to support future OWA programming. If you attend Vision Expo West to reconnect with long-standing friends, or make new connections, the OWA events are a great place to make it happen. Take a look at the full hi-res gallery of photos from VEW here. Article written by  Courtney Myers