Episode #388

Don’t make these financial and business mistakes! (the talk I give at every optometry school’s private practice club)

May 4, 2026

The financial decisions you make early in your career can shape the next several decades—and most people don’t realize it until much later. On this episode, I’m sharing a presentation I recently gave to students at the Indiana University School of Optometry on the timeless financial and business lessons every optometrist should understand. I discuss the power of compounding, how to think about saving priorities, student loans, disability and life insurance, and why your income is your greatest wealth-building tool. I also cover important concepts on the business side of optometry, including ownership, practice valuation, buying in, cold starts, and why some of the best opportunities in the profession are often overlooked because of geography. Whether you’re a student, recent grad, or experienced provider, this episode is about making intentional decisions with your money so you can create more confidence, options, and freedom over time.

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