Best IDOC Podcasts (2025)

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Where's the Money? Fixing the Cracks in Your Billing 37:06

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5d ago37:06

37:06

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Dr. Steve Vargo sits down with Cindy Braden, Vice President of Sales at OneSpot, to uncover the hidden breakdowns in the billing process that are costing eye care practices serious money. From aging A/R to the risks of relying on a single biller, Cindy shares eye-opening insights on how to protect your revenue…

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Episode 221 - Supreme Court Decisions and Google Updates 37:12

10d ago37:12

37:12

Join Josh and Mark on the K-12 Tech Talk Podcast as they tackle pressing issues impacting the education sector. This week, they delve into the Supreme Court's decision to preserve E-Rate funding, celebrating a 6-3 vote victory that aligns with predictions. Listen in as they break down the implications of dissenting voices seeking stricter non-deleg…

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The Most Valuable Day of the Year: How Annual Retreats Are Transforming Practice Culture 38:16

11d ago38:16

38:16

In this episode, Dr. Vargo sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Roush, a practice owner from Northeast Indiana, to discuss the transformative impact of annual retreats on leadership, teamwork, and business growth. Dr. Roche explains the logistics, planning, and execution of successful annual retreats, sharing how they have become her staff's favorite day o…

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Episode 220 - ISTE Preview and Summer Staff Transitions 39:48

16d ago39:48

39:48

Welcome to this week's episode with Chris and Mark (Josh is on vacation!). We give a sneak peek of ISTE and its EdTech index and the five quality indicators that are setting new standards for EdTech vendors. This episode also examines the timely topic of staff transitions over the summer, unpacking the challenges associated with tech handovers, acc…

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The CLEAR Leadership Model: 5 Simple Shifts that Transform Team Performance 35:08

19d ago35:08

35:08

In this episode, host Dr. Steve Vargo turns the focus to leadership, presenting the CLEAR Leadership Model. Dr. Vargo outlines a five-step framework designed to build trust, boost accountability, and foster engagement within an eyecare practice. The model, which stands for Coach with Curiosity, Lead by Listening, Equip with Skills, Align Around Pur…

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Episode 219 - Do you enable GenAI tools for all age levels? 46:12

23d ago46:12

46:12

Join Josh, Chris, and Mark for Episode 219! We dive into the latest news, including the State of Maine's Yubikey deployment, the reintroduction of KOSA, and Google's Gemini and NotebookLM now available for K12. Plus, we'll cover the ongoing E-rate decision. Our main topic for this episode: How are you deploying AI in your district now that major LL…

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You Can’t Be the Doctor and the Manager: Why EOS Might Be the System You Need 45:40

26d ago45:40

45:40

In this episode, Steve interviews Dr. Garrett Whitmore, an OD who has successfully implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to manage his thriving, multi-location practice. Dr. Whitmore explains the six core components of EOS—vision, people, data, issues, processes, and traction—and how these practical tools help run a business effici…

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Episode 218 - Rethinking Guest WiFi (Without Mark) 43:53

30d ago43:53

43:53

On this week's episode, Chris and Josh discuss guest WiFi, in particular whether or not to offer it to students during the school day, new employees (training, accounts, and more), and tech dept vacation days. https://www.the74million.org/article/school-districts-unaware-boarddocs-software-published-their-private-files/ https://www.bleepingcomputer…

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The Future Is Clear: Game-Changing Lens Tech Every OD Should Know 27:11

1M ago27:11

27:11

In this episode, the focus is on the integral yet often overlooked area of lens technologies, including progressive lenses, task lenses, and digital enhancements. The guest, Phil Cummins, Director of Sales at Three Rivers Optical, shares insights into the latest advancements in lens technology, particularly around filters for headaches, myopia cont…

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Episode 217 - How to Write a Better RFP 43:07

1M ago43:07

43:07

On this week's episode, hosts Josh, Chris, and Mark discuss the Dept of Education's proposed budget and what the cuts could mean for K-12 education. Many of the programs may seem distant from our world but the trickle-down effects could be felt immediately for many districts. We also dive into some additional changes at the FCC as well as MS-ISAC, …

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Using AI for Smarter Hiring, Training and Efficiency 37:24

1M ago37:24

37:24

In this episode, we welcome back Ankit Patel to discuss the innovative use of AI in his business, My Business Care Team, which provides virtual staffing solutions for eyecare practices. Ankit explains how AI can address staffing challenges, create effective job descriptions, facilitate behavioral-based interviews, and streamline the hiring process.…

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Episode 216 - How do you handle a curious or mischievous tech student? 50:40

1M ago50:40

50:40

Tune in for an engaging chat about the latest educational AI updates from Microsoft, which include new tools and changes, such as Microsoft co-pilot chat features for students aged 13 and up. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of summer school technology mishaps. The hosts also discuss how to handle students' tech misadventures, exploring …

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Built for Kids: How Dr. Jeremy Ciano Created a Pediatric Powerhouse in Optometry 31:50

2M ago31:50

31:50

In this episode, Dr. Jeremy Ciano shares insights into his journey in pediatric optometry. Dr. Ciano moved to Indiana and started an adult clinic 18 years ago, expanding into pediatric care 12 years ago. Now with four practices, he discusses the unique challenges and rewards of pediatric eye care. Highlights include essential qualities for pediatri…

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Episode 215 - PowerSchool Hacker Has Been Caught! 49:27

2M ago49:27

49:27

Josh and Mark dive into the arrest of the notorious PowerSchool hacker, revealing the unexpected identity of the mastermind behind one of the year's biggest cyber breaches. Join them as they speak with cybersecurity expert Michael Klein, who provides insights into the hacker's profile and discusses the implications for school districts and policyma…

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Out of Sight, Top of Mind: Leading Remote Teams in Eyecare 43:12

2M ago43:12

43:12

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo chats with Corey Pinnegar, founder of remote staffing company TEEM. They delve into the evolving landscape of remote work in optometry. They discuss the challenges of staffing shortages, rising payroll costs, and the potential for virtual assistants (VAs) to fill gaps and alleviate administrative burdens in optometr…

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Episode 214 - More Cell Phone Laws / Memphis vs. PowerSchool / Summer Collections 48:15

2M ago48:15

48:15

In this week's episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast, join the team as they delve into two states moving closer to banning cell phones in schools, exploring how such bans are enforced at the state level. The discussion also covers Congress's recent changes to the E-Rate program, analyzing the implications these changes have on school funding and int…

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Core Value Dispensing: How Trust and Integrity Drive Optical Revenue 40:27

2M ago40:27

40:27

In this episode, I’m joined by respected optician and educator Joy Gibb to explore how integrity, empathy, and curiosity—not sales tactics—drive the most impactful optical experiences. Joy introduces the concept of core value dispensing, where product recommendations are rooted in genuine care and a desire to improve each patient’s quality of life.…

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Episode 213 - TikTok Chromebook Trends & More PowerSchool Woes 1:00:00

2M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

This week, we discuss CoSN's initiative to train educators in AI readiness, aiming to scale AI adoption in K12 schools nationwide. The program features expert trainers and a K12 Gen AI Maturity Tool to help districts navigate the opportunities and risks of AI integration. Additionally, over 250 tech CEOs, including leaders from companies like Adobe…

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How Eye Doctors Are Helping Migraine Sufferers See the Light 34:52

2M ago34:52

34:52

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Charles Posternack about his extensive career in healthcare and the founding of Avulux, a company dedicated to developing specialized lenses to aid migraine sufferers. Dr. Posternack shares personal stories and statistical insights into the prevalence and impact of migraines, particularly on those und…

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Episode 212 - Navigating Indiana's Tech Education Landscape: Insights from the Indiana CTO Clinic 1:02:42

2M ago1:02:42

1:02:42

Join us live from the Indiana CTO Clinic, where tech and education experts come together for a vibrant discussion on the latest trends in tech integration in K12 education. The episode captures candid conversations with guests from various school districts across Indiana, spotlighting challenges and solutions in educational technology. Listen in as…

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Navigating Tariffs: Impact on Eye Care Practices 30:56

2M ago30:56

30:56

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo explores the impact of recent tariffs on the eye care industry. Joined by Omar Elkhatib, Senior Manager of Government Relations, and Rick Van Arnam, regulatory counsel from the Vision Council, they discuss the implications of tariffs imposed on various countries, emphasizing how eyecare professionals might be affect…

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Episode 211 - Curriculum Opt-Outs and Trump's K-12 AI Plan 1:00:00

3M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

Join us in this episode as Josh, Mark, and special guest K12TechPro's Jason Rooks dive into two compelling stories surrounding curriculum opt-outs and the complex position schools find themselves in. They explore a recent Supreme Court case impacting parental rights in curriculum choices and how this trend affects K-12 institutions nationwide. The …

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Why Patients Say No—And How to Help Them Say Yes 34:59

3M ago34:59

34:59

In this special episode of Eye Own a Business, I’m sharing three powerful conversations from a previous podcast I hosted, Can I Ask You One Question? Each segment features a bestselling author exploring a common theme: how to influence human behavior in ways that lead to better outcomes—for your patients and your practice. You'll hear from Dr. Step…

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Episode 210 - Tariffs, Special Requests, and Food! 52:33

3M ago52:33

52:33

In this episode, we dive into the current issues surrounding technology tariffs and their impact on K-12 education. We explore how these tariffs affect school budgets and procurement processes, providing insights into recent changes and what schools should anticipate moving forward. A segment is dedicated to addressing the complex topic of managing…

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“How Can I Afford to Hire?” Turning Payroll Anxiety into Practice Growth 39:24

3M ago39:24

39:24

In this episode, Steve Vargo interviews Nathan Hayes, discussing the challenges and strategies surrounding payroll and hiring in optometry practices. They explore the complexities of hiring decisions, balancing fear and logic, and the importance of having the right team members to drive growth. They also touch on practical advice for managing staff…

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Episode 209 - Dept of Ed Closure & K12 Technology 47:50

3M ago47:50

47:50

Episode 209 covers a range of topics, including a recap of the PowerSchool interview, news on a UC Irvine study about AI usage among teens, potential cuts to K12 cybersecurity funding, and a humorous moment involving the Secretary of Education (A1!). The main focus is on exploring the potential impacts of the Department of Education's closure on K1…

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Special Episode: PowerSchool CISO, Mishka McCowan 42:20

3M ago42:20

42:20

Join Josh, Chris, and Mark as they host an exclusive interview with Mishka, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of PowerSchool, following a significant cyber incident that changed the landscape of K-12 cyber-security. Discover the human side of crisis management, starting with Mishka’s initial reaction to the attack and learn about the ra…

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How to Make Your Associate OD a Revenue Driver 21:54

3M ago21:54

21:54

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses a common challenge faced by practice owners: how to increase revenue production from associate ODs. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication in setting expectations, tracking performance metrics, and having productive review meetings. Dr. Vargo highlights the need for mentorship, focusing on pat…

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Episode 208 - Live from CoSN 2025! 56:54

3M ago56:54

56:54

We travel to the Emerald City this week to hang out with the great folks at CoSN! This podcast episode, recorded live at the CoSN conference in Seattle, offers interviews with participants, organizers, and presenters. Topics centered around the human aspect of AI, cybersecurity, and some amazing innovations from school districts around the county! …

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Start Over, Start Fresh: How One OD Designed a Practice That Aligns with Her Life 42:22

3M ago42:22

42:22

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Stewart returns to discuss her remarkable journey back into private practice after selling her first practice. Reflecting on her initial decision to step away and the motivations behind her return, Dr. Stewart shares insights into what she learned about patient care and business operations. The conversation explores th…

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Episode 207 - The Supreme Court Discusses E-Rate! 1:06:16

4M ago1:06:16

1:06:16

The big court case has finally arrived! We break down the oral arguments that were presented this week to the Supreme Court that will ultimately determine the fate of E-Rate. Will we see this essential program carry on or will the lower court's ruling strike down this key program? We discuss the arguments for and against with clips from the hearing…

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The Future of Optometry: What the Next Generation of ODs Really Want 49:13

4M ago49:13

49:13

The future of optometry is evolving, and today’s new grads have different expectations, career goals, and challenges than ever before. In this episode, I sit down with Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, President and CEO of New England College of Optometry, to discuss what the next generation of optometrists really wants—from practicing to the full extent o…

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Episode 206 - Terry Loftus, San Diego CIO & MS-ISAC Board Chair 51:56

4M ago51:56

51:56

In this week's episode, Chris and Mark delve into a recent massive data breach that has had significant repercussions for hundreds of thousands of educators in Pennsylvania. They explore the startling details of the breach, discussing its implications and the timeline of the response. The episode features an interview with Terry Loftus, the CIO of …

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The Power of Influence: How Communication Transforms Optical Sales 58:12

4M ago58:12

58:12

In this episode, Kayla Ashley, founder of Spexy, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of influential communication and how simple behavioral adjustments can notably improve patient trust and practice outcomes. Ashley shares actionable insights into reducing patient walkouts, optimizing team interactions, and enhancing the overall patient exp…

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Episode 205 - Death by Fax, and Cuts to MS-ISAC Funding 51:50

4M ago51:50

51:50

In this episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast, hosts Josh, Chris, and Mark delve into the recent challenges facing K-12 technology in light of new tariffs and significant budget cuts. They discuss the potential impact of these economic and political changes on school services, with a specific focus on the technology and cybersecurity landscapes. A k…

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Episode 204 - MidwestTechTalk Security Symposium 2025 Recap & SaferWatch 30:15

4M ago30:15

30:15

Join Chris and Mark as they hit the highlights of the recently concluded MidwestTechTalk Security Symposium. The conference tackled crucial topics surrounding incident response planning and cybersecurity preparedness in K-12 schools. Then, the show wraps up with insights from an informative interview with SaferWatch. -------------------- SaferWatch…

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Beyond the Exam Room: Why Optometrists Must Think Like CEOs 32:17

4M ago32:17

32:17

At The Connection 2025, Dr. Todd Cohan discusses the importance of integrating a business mindset into optometry practices. He shares insights on balancing patient care with effective business management, highlighting three pillars of his practice: primary eye care, myopia management, and dry eye treatment. Dr. Cohan emphasizes the need for entrepr…

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Optimizing Optometry Marketing: Insights from Jeremy Bono 34:13

4M ago34:13

34:13

In this episode, Jeremy Bono, a new addition to the IDOC team, delves into his experience in the eye care space, specifically focusing on marketing for optometrists. He emphasizes the importance of defining personal brand values and mission, leveraging SEO, and using AI for competitive analysis and strategy refinement. Throughout the conversation, …

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Episode 203 - Beeper Bans, Google MFA Changes, and District Liability 44:05

4M ago44:05

44:05

Tune in to hear insights on how some states are ramping up cell phone bans in schools and the implications this has for students and staff alike, including the extension to smartwatches, beepers, and pagers! The guys also delve into a pivotal Supreme Court case regarding the E-rate program, unpacking the ramifications of the recent ruling that clas…

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Episode 202 - Navigating Tariffs, Chrome's New AI Security, and E-Rate Threats 49:25

5M ago49:25

49:25

In this week's episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast, the team dives into some pressing issues. We start with a discussion on how tariffs might affect project pricing for the coming year, exploring potential impacts on schools' budgets and strategies they might employ to mitigate these effects. The conversation then shifts to Google's new Chrome sec…

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The CLEAR Sales Model: A Simple Approach to Selling Eyewear 22:46

5M ago22:46

22:46

In this podcast episode, we tackle the often uncomfortable topic of 'selling' in the eye care profession. Despite being trained primarily as clinicians, optometrists and opticians can greatly benefit from understanding effective sales techniques. Host Steve Vargo introduces the CLEAR Sales Model - a simple, repeatable system that helps guide patien…

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Episode 201 - Unveiling the Shadowy World of Breach Coaches 56:30

5M ago56:30

56:30

Join us in episode 201, as we dive into the intricate world of cybersecurity breach coaches. We start with a deep analysis of the latest cybersecurity reports from Clever and CoSN, highlighting critical vulnerabilities and the evolving landscape of K12 cybersecurity challenges. In an exclusive interview, journalist Mark Keierleber from The 74 explo…

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Stop Jonesin’…measure your success against your own purpose, not someone else’s 49:46

5M ago49:46

49:46

In this episode originally aired on the 20/20 Money podcast, certified financial planner Adam Cmejla and Dr. Steve Vargo discuss the importance of staying true to one's vision and passion in practice ownership. The conversation highlights common pitfalls such as the temptation to mimic other successful practices and urges optometrists to avoid unne…

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Episode 200 - Special Guests, Musical Acts, and Celebrity Drop-Ins... 1:12:43

5M ago1:12:43

1:12:43

The 200th episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast was packed with special guests, laughs, and big announcements. Musician Colt Ball kicked things off with a live performance, and David Wren from NTP discussed K12TechPro's cybersecurity deals for schools. Tom Ryan shared insights on AI, while Chris Illingworth from Fortinet talked about security soluti…

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The Admin Day Trap: How to Reclaim Your Time and Grow Your Practice 50:45

5M ago50:45

50:45

Are you stuck in the “Admin Day” mindset, drowning in tasks that keep you from growing your practice? In this episode, Steve and guest Adam Cmejla challenge the way optometry practice owners think about time management, delegation, and productivity. They explore why so many ODs struggle to let go of certain tasks, how opportunity cost affects pract…

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Episode 199 - It's a Disaster 31:49

5M ago31:49

31:49

We did this episode for about 45 minutes and realized we didn't hit record. It happens. This is a redo. It's a disaster. Really. Next week is a SPECIAL episode as we hit 200. Get ready for that. We promise next week will be better. In the meanwhile, we discuss: Who pays for Chromebook repairs? What will chip tariffs do to 25-26 purchases? Cybersqua…

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Embracing and Implementing Change in Your Practice 1:01:59

6M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Steve welcomes practice management experts Sharon Carter and Lynn Lawrence to discuss their keynote presentation, How to Embrace Change and Implement It, which will be delivered at the upcoming IDOC Connection conference in February. The conversation explores why change is challenging in optometry practices, h…

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Episode 198 - Top 10 Changes to K12 Cyber Security We'd Like to See 1:00:16

6M ago1:00:16

1:00:16

In this lively episode of the K12 Tech Talk Podcast, a significant portion of the discussion focuses on recent updates regarding the PowerSchool data breach. The hosts shed light on the critical changes necessary for enhancing cybersecurity in school districts, including expanding MFA, moving away from outdated FTP to modern solutions, and embracin…

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The Future is Now: AI Applications in Optometry You Can Use Today 36:35

6M ago36:35

36:35

In this episode, Steve sits down with Ankit Patel to discuss the integration of AI in his optometry practice. They explore various applications of AI, from enhancing hiring processes and staff training to streamlining operations and creating SOPs. Ankit shares practical advice on leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude, highlights the current c…

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Episode 197 - Updates on PowerSchool and Notification Requirements 51:06

6M ago51:06

51:06

In this episode of the K12 Tech Talk Podcast, the team dives into the recent PowerSchool breach. Mark, who was recently featured on Canadian national news (Eh!), shares updates and insights into the breach's technical aspects, along with a breakdown on an article he published on K12TechPro. The discussion also highlights the roles and responsibilit…