The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care Professionals
"The Focused View" is a podcast dedicated to exploring the latest trends, strategies, and innovations in the eye care industry. Hosted by industry expert Michael Nasser, each episode features in-depth interviews with thought leaders and practitioners who are pushing the boundaries of optometry. With a focus on empowering eye care professionals and elevating the industry, "The Focused View" provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving field. Tune in for engaging conversations, expert analysis, and a clear vision for the future of eye care.
The Focused View: Empowering Eye Care Professionals
EP44: Ownership, Independence, and Planning Succession in Optometry with Tim Duffy
What does it take to build an independent practice that lasts for four decades and then pass it on to continue the legacy, intention, and heart for patient care?
In this episode, we are joined by Tim Duffy, a highly respected rural optometrist, former owner of Vision Splendid, and long-time advocate of independent practice, to unpack how he built, grew, and eventually handed over his optometry practice to younger optometrists without losing its heart for patients.
This conversation goes beyond business theory. It's about community, independence, patient care-first, and living a legacy that outlives you. Whether you're a young optometrist wondering where your career path is heading, a practice owner thinking about the next 5–10 years, or someone who is deeply invested in the future of independent optometry, this is a must-listen episode for you!
—
All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at
https://www.thefocusedview.com.au
—
Key Topics with Timestamps:
1:16 - Tim Duffy's path into optometry
3:29 - Starting young and building a rural practice in NSW
6:20 - Key strategies in growing a rural optometry practice
9:32 - Early support from the community
11:06 - Expanding scope of practice in rural settings
14:06 - Investing in patient care through technology, equipment in rural settings
16:34 - Competition in rural private practice
19:34 - Advocating for independence: treating team as family
22:51 - Creating a lifestyle, flexibility, and owning your time
26:13 - Recognition of the Josef Lederer Award (2017)
28:12 - Who was Josef Lederer?
31:22 - Initial steps of succession planning
38:27 - Finding the right person for a successful succession
40:54 - Why did Tim choose the continuation of practice legacy over corporate sale
46:19 - When it the time to get legal advice for succession planning
Mentioned Resources:
Episode Suggestions:
Holiday Episode: Eye Care Community Voice
EP43: Beyond the Brochure: Raising Optical Standards Through Lens Knowledge with Grant Hannaford
Connect with Michael Nasser:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-nasser/
_____
Learn More About Us:
Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view
Send us your thoughts about the episode
Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!
