Thrive with Confidence: Recent Episodes
Acquios Alliance
Welcome to “Thrive with Confidence!” Listen to the Advisors from Acquios discuss the Alliance, a buying group that connects private practices with trusted vendors and expert support. We will feature discussion with our Vendor partners and Optometrist members, while we explore topics that will Empower Your Independence! If you would like to learn more about Acquios Alliance, please head to acquiosalliance.com or check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/acquiosalliance/. Our Theme Song is "On My Way" by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4163-on-my-wayLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
How do you decide which vendors to work with? Who do you trust to assist you professionally when it comes to accounting, legal, or general advice questions?
Join the conversation as Rick, Tim, and Scott discuss factors you need to consider when you are choosing who you partner and work with.
Have questions? Reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
One of the aspects of owning a business is inspecting what you expect. Measures need to be put in place to ensure loss, whether it is money, inventory, or even time, is not happening in your practice.
Listen in to hear advice from Rick, Teresa, Scott, and Kendall on how to put loss prevention measures in place!
For questions or to suggest a topic, reach out to us at Info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott sits down with Ron Vinceslio, founder of Optical Vantage Lab!
Optical Vantage is a Veteran-Owned, Independent lab who provides top-notch service. Ron explains what makes his lab unique with the service they provide!
If you would like to connect with Ron, please reach out at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Check out their website at OpticalVantage.com!
When choosing vendors to align your practice with, why not choose one who will go above and beyond for you?
Mick Kunish, Director of Business Development with Charmant USA, chats with Tim and Scott about how Charmant goes the extra mile for their clients. The service level you will receive is second to none!
To connect with Mick or learn more about Charmant, reach out to us at info@acquios.com!
To learn more or register for the next Executive Leadership Program starting October 4th in Jupiter, FL, reach out to us at info@acquios.com!
Scott chats with Rick and Tim from Acquios Advisors about when should owning doctors start creating their exit plan. They also discuss what components to consider to make the process as seamless as possible.
For more information or to talk with Acquios Advisors about exit and succussion planning, reach out to them at info@acquios.com!
Scott, Tim, and Kendall the importance of accountability. A team works together great, when everyone shows up! They talk about how to hold a team accountable for their attendance, actions, and more.
To submit a topic for the podcast, reach out to info@acquiosalliance.com!
When finding the perfect pair of glasses, it is not only important they look on your face but it is just as important they are comfortable.
Setex Technologies discovered a way to provide this comfort through their Anti-Slip Nose Pads. Join the conversation as Scott chats with Paul Glass, Chief Technology Officer, and Tracy Lane Vice President of Sales, with Setex Technologies to learn more about their inventive solution. They share how these nose pads were developed with the inspiration of a small lizard and how they can be a benefit to your practice!
For more information about the Anti-Slip Nose Pads and other products Setex Technologies offers, visit their website at https://www.setextechnologies.com/, or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott is joined by Melissa Jacobson, Director of Billing Operations, and Casey Squicquero, Specialist in OneSpot Onboarding, to discuss how to Master the Chaos with OneSpot!
They discuss how OneSpot creates a transparent picture of a practice's billing operations. It allows billers to manage their accounts receivable effectively, and owners can feel confident having access to the system if their biller is away from the office.
For more information, please visit OneSpot's website at https://www.onespotbilling.com/. You can also reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com for more information!
Listen in as Scott Cline learns more about Sports Vision as a specialty and the support providers can receive from the International Sports Vision Association (ISVA)! Scott is joined by Dr. Paul Brewer, Vice President of Membership, and Dr. Melissa Bussey, Advisory Board Member, with ISVA!
Dr. Brewer and Dr. Bussey share their experiences with sports vision and how much of a difference it can make in patients lives. They also share how ISVA provides support to their members through networking and education opportunities, and continues to grow sports vision as specialty.
For more information about ISVA, please visit their website at https://www.sportsvision.pro/. You can also reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com to get connected with them!
Join the conversation as Scott sits down with Brian Kessler to learn about an Eyewear company who is changing the industry. As the Director of U.S. Sales, Brian shares insight on how Swissflex is a modular frame system and allows a patient to create a completely customizable frame. Their frames feel like you are wearing nothing! They keep their partnerships independent and are in over 50 countries!
To connect with Swissflex, reach out to us at Info@acquiosalliance.com!
Looking to bring a unique specialty into the practice? One which would allow you to slow down and spend more time with patients?
Listen in as Scott learns more about NeuroVisual Medicine from his conversation with Matt Rosner, Chief Strategist of Practice Growth for NeuroVisual Medicine Institute! Matt shares with us what exactly NeuroVisual Medicine is and how it works. He also provides insight on how you can implement it within your practice.
To learn more, check out NVMI at https://nvminstitute.org/ or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott chats with Dave Barton, Co-Founder and CEO of Optify, about Optify's newest product tier, Grow! Dave describes how this new tier will add to the great service Optify already provides. To learn more, check out Optify at Optifyonline.com or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott and Rick discuss the important topic of Professional Employer Organizations with Lori Wittmeyer!
Lori shares the basics of what a PEO is and how they are structured and operate. She also shares the important facts to be aware of as a business owner as you share your employer status with PEOs.
This is a can't miss episode! If you would like to reach out to Lori with any human resource inquires, please email Lori at Wittlori11@gmail.com. You can also reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott chats with Andy Hawes, Owner and CEO, and Hugh McManus, Vice President of Sales, with Super Optical International.
During their conversation, Andy and Hugh share insight on Super Optical's revolutionary modified surfacing system, FastGrind. They discuss how this system allows private practices to offer competitive lens service and how little space it actually takes up in a practice's optical lab! In addition to FastGrind, Scott learns about the fantastic lens product Super Optical offers like VisionAir.
To learn more about Super Optical and FastGrind, visit their website Superoptical.com.
You can reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com to get in contact with Hugh!
In this episode, Scott learns about various aspects to payment solutions and merchant services beyond just having the means to accept Debit and Credit Cards. He is joined by Todd Maple, Owner and Director of Business Development with Greenleaf Payment Services.
There is so much more to merchant services, have you considered a virtual terminal, protection and security, or alternative pricing? They discuss these topics and more during their conversation! Todd shares how Greenleaf Payment Services can help and information on their Price Assurance Program and New Business Program.
Contact us at info@acquiosalliance.com to connect with Todd and Greenleaf Payment Services!
What kind of certifications are available for someone working in an optometry practice? Is it worth becoming certified?
In this episode, Scott and Kendall are joined by Acquios Advisors' own Ellie Rogers, who is CPO certified, and Teresa Stancik, who is ABO certified! They share their experience in gaining their certifications as well as provide insight on how to start the path of becoming certified!
Should we add the word certified in this description one more time? Sure why not! If you have any questions about becoming certified, we encourage you to look at ABO and NCLE's website, https://www.abo-ncle.org/ or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com for more information.
Listen in as Scott has a chatsonversation with Tawnya Starr, an entrepreneur and executive advisor with Culture Index!
During their conversation, Tawnya shares insights about Culture Index and how this is not a personality test but rather a road map of learning about oneself. They discuss how Culture Index can assist a practice in learning more about the people on the team and even help with it comes to hiring.
To learn more and how Tawnya can assist, please visit http://www.tawnyastarr.com/.
You can also reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com to connect with Tawnya!
Should Patients invest in quality sunwear? Do they need sunglasses in the winter?
Scott and Everest Pandya, NAM Sales Manager with Bollé Brands North America, answer these questions while chatting about the importance of quality sunwear! Everest offers his expert opinion on how quality sunwear can change a patient's mindset on how many pairs of glasses one really needs.
To learn more about Bollé Brands, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Scott and Tim chat with Mick Kunish, Director of Business Development with Charmant USA!
In this can't miss episode, Mick shares how Charmant engineered their Size to Fit frames and the personal connection he has to them! He describes what it means to have the perfect fit and how everyone can feel confident in the frames they wear.
To learn more about Charmant, visit their website at charmant-usa.com.
To get in touch with Mick, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Ellie, Scott, Kendall, and Teresa chat about the importance of learning other areas of the practice and understanding the responsibilities they carry. This can be vital to assisting other in the practice to ensure it runs smoothly!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Scott, Kendall, Ellie, and Teresa discuss ways to prepare for the second quarter of 2024! From scheduling to cash flow, be sure to think of these items now and be proactive!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
In this episode, Scott, Teresa, and Kendall discuss various tools that help practices track key metrics, frame inventory, price and fees analysis, and more! These are tools that you may have used before but it's been a while or have never used, this is a reminder to check them out!
For more information, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in on the conversation as Scott Cline chats with One Interior's Founder and President, Helen Rogic!
They discuss how Helen and her team approach each space with a unique and one-of-a-kind design. She provides insights on how One Interior can assist throughout the entire process and make it as seamless as possible!
Check out their Gallery at One-interior.com! To connect with Helen, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
You invested time and resources to find the perfect new hire for your practice, how do you welcome them to the office on their first day? Listen to the discussion between Scott, Teresa, Rick, and Kendall to hear how your office can leave a great and lasting first impression for your newest team member!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the Conversation as Tim, Teresa, Scott, and Kendall chat about different ways practices utilize technology in other areas of the practice besides the clinic. The assistance of technology processes can help the team run more efficiently and have them working smarter, not harder!
To submit a topic, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Check out our episode sponsor, Charmant, and their new Isaac Mizrahi Men's Collection at Vision Expo East and Charmant.com!
Looking for an opportunity to evaluate your mission statement and values and have an amazing team retreat?!
Join the conversation as Scott Cline and Dr. Amber Fritsch, Co-Owner and Optometrist with Precision Eye Care, as they discuss her and her team's experience at our Spring 2023 Living Your Mission event!
Dr. Fritsch talks about the excitement her and her team had evaluating their mission statement, meeting Acquios Alliance Vendors, and learning how to live their mission throughout the patient experience!
Click HERE to register for the Spring 2024 Living Your Mission event in Kansas City, KS April 26th and 27th, or reach out us at info@acquios.com!
Join the conversation as Scott, Ellie, Rick, and Kendall chat about how to increase the success rate of patients saying yes to Dry Eye Treatments! Should your team know the facts about dry eye? Can they assist with the recommendation?
If you have any questions or topic suggestions, email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Thank you to Charmant for sponsoring this episode of Thrive with Confidence! Visit Charmant at Charmant.com!
When was the last time you evaluated your website? Are there any pages outdated?
Michelle, Ellie, Kendall and Scott chat about how to evaluate your website, how to increase the traffic on it and SEO, and updates to consider.
If you have any questions or would like to suggest a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at Info@acquiosalliance.com!
Thank you to our sponsor of this episode, Charmant! Visit their website at Charmant.com to learn more!
Join the discussion as Tim Merrigan chats with the Co-Founder and CEO of Dr. Contact Lens, Dr. Brianna Rhue!
Dr. Rhue's passion for helping doctors improve their business processes and protect the relationship with their patients shines through during this conversation. Dr. Contact Lens provides a simple and easy route for patients to order their contacts through the practice. It not only helps keep contact lens orders in the practice but also save the team time.
Reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com to get in touch with Dr. Contact Lens!
Scott, Teresa, Ellie, and Kendall share updates on events that Acquios Advisors is providing for Spring 2024! Listen to learn more about these amazing events!
- Evolutions - February 16th and 17th
- Attend our Insurance and Billing, Employee Relations, or Optical Enhancement segment in Omaha, NE!
- Executive Management Program - March 1st and 2nd
- The next round of the 6-month program kicks off March 1st in Omaha, NE!
- Living Your Mission - April 26th and 27th
- Bring your team and learn how you can live your mission through the entire patient experience! It will be held at the Great Wolf Lodge in Kansas City, Kansas!
- Speaking Events - Join Rick as he speaks on OD on Finance on March 10th, March 24th, and April 14th!
Reach out to us to learn more about these events at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Burnout can happen to everyone, especially when finishing a busy time like the End of the Year.
Listen in as Scott, Tim, Teresa, and Kendall discuss tips for how to avoid burnout, and also how to destress and deal with burnout when it happens!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
What is the Corporate Transparency Act?
Who is affected by it? How to you complete the report required for it?
These questions and more are answered when Scott Cline chats with Patrick Guinotte, JD MBA about the Corporate Transparency Act. Patrick provides insight on who needs to complete the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report and when that report needs to be completed.
the BOI report can be completed at FinCEN.gov.
If you have any questions or need assistance completing the report, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
We are less than a month into 2024 and many practice around the country have been impacted by inclement weather like snow and ice. Other regions will experience inclement weather in other forms at different time of the year.
Do you have a policy in your employee handbook for Inclement weather? How will you let patients know of the practice closing that day?
To submit a topic, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Ellie, Scott, Teresa, and Kendall discuss the pros and cons of utilizing a virtual assistant service in a practice!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
It is the start of a new year which means it is a great time to create a marketing plan for 2024!
Ellie, Scott, and Kendall discuss how to plan our your marketing for the year and some points to consider like budget, time, and tracking the success rate. Acquios Advisors created a Marketing Calendar to make planning easier!
Tell us what topics you would like to hear from us in 2024 by emailing info@acquiosalliance.com!
Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!
2024 is days away! We thank you for listening with us each week and appreciate the support. We love what we do and so thankful to share insights and knowledge with all of you! Please enjoy a recap of a few Industry Insight episodes from 2023!
Clips featured from these episodes:
- Giving Back During Back To School
- You Either Fail to Plan, or Plan to Fail
- Importance of Tracking Statistics
- Appreciate Your Team!
To submit a topic for us to cover in 2024, please reach out at info@acquiosalliance.com!
In the busyness of the holiday season, it can be easy to feel burned out and over worked. Scott, Ellie, Kendall, and Teresa chat about different ways to relieve stress in the office. It is important to remember to take a rest every now and then, even if only for a moment!
Tell us how you like to relieve stress for yourself and in your practice!
With the new year upon us, we want to ensure you are thinking about the goals you want to achieve in 2024! Scott, Teresa, and Kendall chat about how to set goals for 2024. Are they a SMART goal?
Let us know your goals for 2024!
In this episode, Tim chats with two special guests, Michael Hyman, VP of Sales for Visual Eyes Eyewear, and Jeff Sparr, Artist and Co-Founder of PeaceLove Foundation!
They discuss the gorgeous frame collection that Visual Eyes Eyewear and Jeff collaborated on, the PeaceLove Eyewear! Each frame is inspired by Jeff's artwork to be unique and colorful. Every purchase supports the PeaceLove Foundation, an organization that promotes mental wellness by using creativity and expression to inspire, heal, and communicate. Listen in to learn how the PeaceLove Foundation is making an impact in the world of mental health!
To learn more check out veeyewear.com/peacelove and peacelove.org.
To connect with Visual Eyes Eyewear and bring this wonderful collection into your practice, contact us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Join the conversation as Rick, Scott, Ellie, and Kendall discuss topics for practices to be thinking of as they enter the final month of 2023! Are you ready for the New Year!?
If you have questions or would like to suggest an Industry Insights topic, email us at Info@acquiosalliance.com!
Scott, Teresa, Kendall, and Ellie share their thoughts on the Inaugural Virtual Frame Event put on by Acquios Alliance!
On November 15th, 2023, Seventeen Frame Vendors from the Acquios Alliance came together to share their stories and product with Members for a few hours. It was a great success and allowed doctors, office managers, and opticians to view product easily and connect with vendors!
Be on the look out for our next Virtual Frame Event! To learn more, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Teresa, Scott, and Kendall discuss a way to reduce chaos at the front desk... implementing a phone room! If the office has space to spare think about creating a phone room where a team member can answer the phone, make confirmation calls, recalls, follow ups and more. This invites your patients to a calm and relaxing environment where they are not hearing the phone ring constantly!
To submit topics, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com
When was the last time you participated in a community event? When was the last time you visited the local businesses near your practice?
Join the conversation as Kendall, Teresa, and Scott chat about ways practices can get involved in their community! Whether the practice is a year old or twenty years old, being involved in the community helps keep your practice relevant and gets patients to associate your name with their eyecare health!
To submit topics for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
In this episode, Scott and joined by Joel Wolf with Optikam!
Technology is constantly evolving and Optikam is evolving with it. Joel shares insight on how Optikam can still assist opticians when they take measurements without needing to place the device on patients' glasses now. They also discuss an important topic when it comes to taking measurements, posture! Joel and Scott chat about how Optikam can assist utilizing a patient's natural posture.
Reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com to connect with Optikam!
Join the conversation as Scott, Teresa, and Kendall discuss items to consider when preparing for the end of year before the madness sets in! The discussion includes speaking with your accountant, team holiday parties, and marketing. Reach out to us at acquiosalliance.com has a wonderful checklist put together to assist!
In this episode, Teresa, Scott, and Kendall answer the burning question of how often should I be reminding patients of their appointment? They will delve into the proper mix of texting, emailing, and calling patients to remind them of their eye appointment!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Is it possible for HIPAA compliance to be easy and fun?
Rick and Scott sat down with Dr. Jeff Brown, Founder of HIPAAMATE. They discuss how HIPAAMATE takes the difficulties and headaches of dealing with HIPAA compliance and simplifies it with their software. They provide easy to follow step by step processes that will ensure HIPAA compliance is customized to your practice!
To learn more about HIPAAMATE, visit their website at hipaamate.com or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Rick, Tim, and Scott provide another mission report on the Inaugural Class of Acquios Advisors' Executive Management Program!
They discuss how collaborative the participants have been throughout the course and the growth seen in their leadership skills! Participants have the opportunity to chat with each other between sessions to ask questions, advice, opinions, and assistance from others.
For information and to join the next class of the Executive Management Program, reach out to us at info@acquios.com! The next class begins November 3rd, 2023!
How can I can protect myself from credit card fraud?
What do lenders look for from a credit perspective?
How can I be prepared to increase the likelihood of approval from lenders?
To learn the answers to these questions, join the conversation as Scott chats with John Talbot, an expert on small business credit with Mercantile! John shares tips and tricks that will help business owners protect themselves from fraud, be organized when they apply with lenders, and know how to increase the likelihood of approval!
Apply for the Acquios Alliance Business Card at https://about.acquios.cards/.
Looking for an opportunity for a team retreat and evaluate your mission statement and values?
Join the conversation as Scott Cline and Dr. Amber Fritsch, Co-Owner and Optometrist with Precision Eye Care, as they discuss her and her team's experience at our Spring 2023 Living Your Mission event!
Dr. Fritsch talks about the excitement her and her team had evaluating their mission statement, meeting Acquios Alliance Vendors, and learning how to live their mission throughout the patient experience!
To sign up for the Fall 2023 Living Your Mission event in Kansas City October 27th and 28th, reach out us at info@acquios.com!
How important is it that a practice has a budget for frames?
Kendall and Scott discuss the importance of frame budgeting and tools to help make budgeting easy! This episode helps you keep your eye on the prize!
For more information, please reach out to us at info@acquios.com!
Let us know if you have any topics you would like us to chat about on Industry Insights!
Does a job have to be just that? A job?
Scott, Rick, Teresa, and Kendall discuss how a job in an private practice can be an opportunity for a career in the optical industry. Whether they remain in the practice and move into a leadership role or shift to another career in the industry!
The Optometry industry is an exciting and prosperous road. One, that for many, can start in unique ways. Listen in as they share some personal examples and impart some wisdom.
Have a topic you would like us to discuss? reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the Conversation as Tim Merrigan chats with Jim Schneider, Co-founder and President of Eyes of Faith Optical!
Jim shares insight on latest updates from Eyes of Faith including their new sunglasses line, ZIVAH! Throughout this episode, you can hear the passion that Jim and his wife, Amy, have for spreading faith through providing beautiful eyewear and giving back. Jim also shares the recent developments on Delilah's Point Hope Vision Clinic starting up in Ghana!
To connect with Eyes of Faith, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Scott and Kendall are joined by Jasmine Valdes, Marketing Manager with MP Consulting, to chat about Social Media!
Jasmine shares with us her do's and don'ts for social media and what to be mindful of when posting! We also discuss the goal of each social media post, should we aim for it to go viral or to be impactful?
You don't want to miss this amazing episode!
To submit a topic for Industry Insight, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Kendall, Scott, and Michelle discuss when practices should start encouraging their patients to schedule their comprehensive eye exams before the end of the year. They share numerous ideas of how to encourage patients through various forms of marketing!
Find out when should you start the "Use it or lose it" marketing for those with HSAs and FSAs! (P.S. It isn't in November or December!)
To submit a topic for Industry Insight, please email info@acquiosalliance.com!
The skills of time management and planning are acquired through practice and trial and error.
In this episode, join the conversation as Scott and Kendall chat about the importance of planning your days and weeks. Creating a plan for your week will not only help you remember the "To-Dos" but also help your week be efficient and productive!
To submit a topic for Industry Insights, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Scott and Kendall take the time to remind us that patients are not just an eye exam or another pair of glasses sold, but building relationships with patients is what makes a private practice successful!
Practices are busy with back to school and soon with the end of the year, it is important to remember to take the time and get to know your patients. When you discover a patient's hobbies, likes/dislikes, and what their work life and daily life consist of it will help your office to provide them with better care and relief!
If you have topics or questions for Industry Insights, email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Once the Back to School rush is over, how can a practice keep patients engaged?
Rick, Teresa, and Kendall discuss ideas for a Parents Night out event in September! Practices are focused on ensuring kids from kindergarten through college are prepared for back to school during August, but lets not forget about the parents! Now that kids are back in school, the household is calming down and parents deserve to have a night that they can treat themselves with a new pair of glasses! Listen as we share ideas to help make a night that parents will love!
Looking for ideas to use back to school time in the practice as an opportunity to give back? Or how to make back to school time fun for kids?
Listen in as Scott, Teresa, Tim, and Kendall answer these questions! They offer ideas to give back to the schools, students, and educators in your area while still bringing patients in to the practice.
They also discuss ways to create a fun atmosphere for back to school time that will make kids excited for their annual eye exam!
Listen in as Rick and Scott discuss how to manage the situation when a patient has a complaint or concern! They share tips to keep the patient calm, how to avoid the situation from escalating, and a few solutions to try.
They also chat about how to handle a negative review and what can be done to resolve the situation.
Just remember, say Thank You!
Join the conversation as Scott, Kendall, and Rick talk about why tracking statistics and key metrics are important to the health and grow of a practice.
They discuss a few stats that every practice should track and how they can be used to grow different areas of the practice. Statistics should be shared with everyone in the practice so the whole team can set goals, celebrate accomplishments, and grow as team!
It's the second half of summer which means it's time for back to school Exams!
Tim, Scott, and Kendall discuss how now is the time to schedule patients for their back to school exams, whether they are starting Kindergarten or heading off to College! Don't forget about teachers, school nurses, and other school administrators during this time. They mention ways practices can show appreciation to those that give so much to support students! You can never start to early when marketing for back to school!
Join Teresa, Rick, and Scott as they discuss how to handle the situation of special ordering frames for patients, especially a frame in a certain color.
During the conversation, they mention how technology, such as Optikam, can help opticians provide patients a virtual view of how the frames look in different colors. Practices can also provide their frame inventory online with the assistance of Optify to allow patients to see what frames are available in the optical before their appointment.
For more information or to connect with Optikam and Optify, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Rick Guinotte talks with Rebecca Starks from KMK Careers! Rebecca and KMK Careers assist optometry students with career opportunities and connects with practices all over the country.
Throughout this engaging conversation, they discuss items owning optometrists can include in their associate optometrist postings to help the ad look more appealing. This can be very helpful for practices that are outside of a major city. Rebecca also gives us insight into what benefits and compensation optometry students and recent graduates are looking for in a career position!
To learn more and to connect with Rebecca and KMK Careers, please visit www.hireods.com!
You can also reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
The first month of Acquios Advisors' new Executive Management Program has wrapped up and it was a fantastic kick off to this empowering program!
Scott Cline and Rick Guinotte chat about how the attendees enjoyed the first session in person! The doctors and office managers had the chance to meet each other and see that in spite of the region or state their office is located in, many offices face the same difficulties and hurdles when it comes to leading a team. They now have a group to lean on and grow together!
The next course starts September 15th, 2023! To learn more and register for Acquios Advisors' Executive Management Program, email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Registration and Itinerary: Click HERE.
How can you show your team appreciation? Does it have to be lavish and expensive?
Listen in as Tim, Scott, and Kendall discuss how owners, managers, and everyone on the team can show appreciation in the practice! They answer the questions above and chat about the impact gratitude can have in the office.
Reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com with any questions or to request topics!
Join the exciting conversation between Scott Cline and Tom Davies, founder of the House of Tom Davies, Catch London, and MD1888!
Tom shares where his inspirations for each of his Bespoke collections came from and how he is focused on creating fashionable, fun, and durable frames with the individual in mind. They discuss The House of Tom Davies, a truly Bespoke frame line that allows someone to customize every aspect of the frame. Catch London pushes the boundaries of creativity while still allowing the individual to make their frame unique! Finally, MD1888 offers a vintage and classic aspect that never goes out of style.
This is an episode you don't want to miss!
To learn more, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com or visit www.tdtomdavies.com, md1888.com, and catchlondon.net.
Join Scott, Tim, and Kendall as they discuss when and how practices should consider refreshing their frame inventory!
They talk about what the proper turn rate for a frame line (and inventory as a whole) should be and how to discover the why a line is not turning well. It is important to always monitor your inventory and make sure the product being offered is what your patients want and enjoy!
A fantastic way to help refresh inventory is implementing Independent frame lines. The Acquios Alliance can assist connecting you with these independent vendors, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation with Teresa, Scott, and Kendall as they talk about how to create an environment to bring fun into the practice!
They discuss ideas for creating a work environment that have your staff wanting to come to work. These ideas include developing open communication, creating friendly competition, and games that are not only enjoyable but help the practice work towards goals!
Reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com to request topics for future conversations!
Listen in as Teresa, Scott, and Kendall discuss the importance of Multiple Pairs!
We all know that it is important to meet the needs of patients, but why is it difficult getting patients to purchase multiple pairs of eyewear for their lifestyle needs? We discuss tips and tricks to help patients see the value in investing in lifestyle pairs of eyewear! Where should the conversation start? Who should be talking about multiple pairs? How can you provide value to your patients? We answer all these questions and more!
If you have any questions or for more information visit us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott Cline chats with Renato Cappuccitti with Bajio Sunglasses!
They discuss how Bajio is changing the game for Sunglasses. From assembling their sunglasses in the USA to creating environmentally friendly packaging and giving back to communities.
In addition to sunglasses, Bajio offers other gear that anyone out on the water fishing would need like hats, shirts, backpacks, and more. They work with local artist to create unique and fun designs.
To learn more or connect with Bajio, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in on the conversation between Tim Merrigan and Scott Cline as they talk how a practice can be productive even when it feels slow in the office.
They discuss ways you and your team can work to increase the volume of appointments for a slower month through recalls and reactivations, but also offer ideas to keep the team productive. Some of these ideas include trainings, cleaning, merchandising the optical, and more!
if you have any questions or have topics for us to discuss, reach out at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join Scott, Teresa, and Kendall as they talk about a topic that can be a make or break, marketing your practice!
It is not enough to just open the doors and expect masses to come. Listen in as they discuss a few ways to start spreading the word about your practice and doctors. This is a large topic and there will be many more conversations to come. If you have any marketing questions or topics you would like us to discuss, email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen to the conversation as Rick Guinotte, Teresa Stancik, and Scott Cline discuss the first impression of a practice, answering the phone!
When it comes to answering the phone, Rick, Teresa, and Scott share helpful tips to impress the caller, increase the practice's reputation, and increase the probability of the caller scheduling an appointment!
If you feel your team members could benefit from phone etiquette training, please reach out to Acquios Advisors at info@acquios,com.
Join the conversation as Kendall Guinotte, Scott Cline, and Teresa Stancik talk about the importance of team meetings!
They discuss how to structure a team meeting, when is the best time to do conduct it, how often it should happen, and who should be involved in the meetings.
But most importantly.... take the time to plan for it and start it!
Please reach out to info@acquios.com with questions and visit Acquios.com to utilize our Learning Center!
Listen in as Tim Merrigan and Teresa Stancik discuss how to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of staffing a practice! During the conversation they tackle the pros and cons of hiring a virtual assistant to help fill the staffing needs in the practice. It is important when staffing an office to keep an open mind!
If you have any topics that you would love to hear discussed on Industry Insights, email us at Info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Tim Merrigan talks with Matt Rosner, Director of Growth and Development for NeuroVisual Medicine Institute (NVMI), and Dr. Kathryn Collins, Optometrist and Owner of Kissel Eye Care.
During this can't miss episode, Dr. Collins shares her experience of training with the NeuroVisual Medicine Institute, implementing Neurovision exams , and the impact it has made on her practice. NVMI has changed the way she views Optometry!
Matt discusses how NeuroVisual Medicine Institute supports doctors before, during, and after the training. They set Optometrists up for success as the doctors work to implement this new specialty in their practice!
Reach out to info@acquiosalliance.com and we can connect you with Matt to learn more about NeuroVisual Medicine Institute!
Tune in to our first ever episode of Thrive with Confidence's new series, Industry Insight! During these slightly shorter episodes, we will discuss one topic that is popular and relevant during the time of recordings. We will post these weekly!
If you have a topic you would love for us to discuss, please reach out to info@acquiosalliance.com!
During this first episode Scott Cline and Kendall Guinotte discuss how you can help your office manager, an employee you are looking to promote to leadership, or even yourself grow as a leader! This is an episode you do not want to miss! The Employee Management Program discussed starts June 2nd, 2023!
Tune in as Rick Guinotte chats with Phaedra Chernoff, Corporate Account Director, and Julia Clarke, Key Accounts Sales Manager, with L'Amy America!
During the episode, you will learn about the wonderful collections that L'Amy America offers like Nicole Miller, Ann Taylor, Champion, and Sperry to name a few. L'Amy recognizes teens need more to choose from than kids or adult styles, they offer styles that are perfect for young adults! Phaedra also fills us in on the recent partnership with Two Blind Brothers and how you can help support their efforts to find a cure for blindness!
To learn more check out lamyamerica.com or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Rick Guinotte chats with Brandon Dirkschneider, CEO of Insurance Design Management.
You do not want to miss this episode! Rick and Brandon discuss the ever important topics of Employee Retention and Succession Planning. Brandon gives insight on how employers can provide additional benefits, such as Non-Qualified Plans, to those key employees to ensure they stay with your practice long term. Insurance Design Management has Certified Financial Planners than can help you as you start to create a succession plan and what the future looks like for you personally and for the practice!
Check out all the products and services Insurance Design Management can provide at insdm.com or on LinkedIn! If would like to connect with Insurance Design Management, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join Tim Merrigan as he chats with Ray Hyman, Founder, and Michael Hyman, Vice President of Sales, with Visual Eyes Eyewear!
Listen in on this fun conversation about how a frame company started from a Garage (literally!) to now occupying a 30,000 square foot space and doing business with practices all over the country! During the episode, Ray and Michael tell us about many of their popular collections like Chic, Denali, Wide Guyz, and Katelyn Laurene to name a few. They also highlight two special collections that are collaborations, Peace Love and Stand Up 2 Cancer, and the special story behind both of them. The collections are affordable, have no minimum buy in, and offer a quick turnaround for receiving an order. Visual Eyes Eyewear offers fantastic collections that can be a staple in any Optical.
Reach out to Visual Eyes Eyewear at veeyewear.com or email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
**Prices mentioned in today's episode are as of February 1, 2023 and may be subject to change. Please speak with a Visual Eyes Eyewear Rep for current pricing.
Join us as Tim Merrigan chats with Joe Zewe, Owner of Eyenavision!
They discuss the products that Eyenavision offers to practices including Chemistre Clips, Chemistrie Color, and North Point Eyewear. Chemistre Clips and Chemistrie Color allows practices to differentiate themselves and provide solutions for patients' lifestyle needs. North Point Eyewear is manufactured in the U.S. and great for practices looking for an independent and unique collection!
Check them out at Eyenavision.com and Northpointeyewear.com! You can also learn more by reaching out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Listen in as Rick Guinotte speaks with Zac Bidwell, Regional Manager with Etnia Barcelona!
Etnia Barcelona has created the Etnia Eyewear Culture Group and it encompasses three new brands for practices to add to their optical!
Zac discusses the newest collections, Lool, ALLPOETS, and The Readers, with Rick throughout this episode and how they can help diversify what Etnia Barcelona offers to practices. Each of these brands target a different demographic and are available now to order from your local Etnia Barcelona representative!
To learn more, contact us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Rick Guinotte talks with Ron Vinceslio, founder of Optical Vantage!
Rick and Ron discuss the advantages of utilizing Optical Vantage. They have partnered with Vision Web so they can integrate with your practice management system to provide convenience when placing job orders. Ron and his team understand changing labs can be difficult, he provides insight on how they can help make the switch easier. You will also learn information about their Digital Lens and how they can ensure a quick turn around time.
For more information, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Tim Merrigan chats with the Founder and CEO of Review Wave, Matt Prados!
Nowadays, reviews and being able to communicate with your patient base is vital to a practice's success. Tim and Matt discuss how Review Wave can help improve that communication with automated texting, patients can schedule appointments outside business hours, and easily prompting patients to write reviews. Review Wave even utilizes the practice's phone number when sending texts so there is no confusion for the patient. Sign up for a Demo today at ReviewWave.com!
Now through December 31, 2022, Acquios Alliance members will receive a special offer from Review Wave! Listen here to find out about the special or contact us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join the conversation as Tim Merrigan chats with Bassem El-Hajal, the Vice President of Sales with Optikam.
During this episode you will learn about the incredible technology that Optikam can provide to your practice and help improve the optical experience for your patients. With Optikam's technology, Opticians can take precise measurements, show patients different lens and lens enhancement options, and assist with frame styling! Tim and Bassem discuss how Optikam can be a game changer for practices and even help when discussing multiple pairs with patients!
To learn more please visit Optikam.com, call their toll free line at 888-356-3311, or reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Listen in as Rick Guinotte chats with Ben Collier, Founder and CEO of Independent Optical Lab!
Independent Optical Lab is here for independent practices and their philosophy aligns perfectly with the Acquios Alliance. Rick and Ben discuss how Independent Optical Lab is different from larger labs, the benefits of working with a lab that focuses on private pay orders, and how they are taking a different approach to the Good, Better, Best model!
This is an must-listen episode!
To learn more reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Join Tim Merrigan as he chats with Jim Schneider, Co-Founder and President of Eyes of Faith Optical!
They discuss the incredible story of how Eyes of Faith was founded and a one-of-a-kind story of how it was launched! Jim also shares how they assist Missionary work and how Eyes of Faith frames are unique from others with an addition to each frame.
There is a surprise that Eyes of Faith will have at Vison Expo West this year, listen to check out what it is!
To learn more, reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Scott Cline, Advisor, chats with Rick Guinotte, CEO and Advisor, and Tim Merrigan, Vice President and Advisor, on how Acquios Advisors can assist a doctor when opening a new practice.
They discuss when is it a great time to start consulting an advisor, when should a doctor start looking for lending options and leases, and the question on everyone's mind "can you open a practice in this economy right now?". If you have been thinking about opening your own practice, this is a fantastic episode for you!
If you would like more information, please email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Rick Guinotte talks with Dr. Debby Feinberg, Founder and Lead Clinician of NeuroVisual Medicine Institute, and Matt Rosner, Director or Growth and Development.
Dr. Debby and Matt provide insight on how life changing the care that NeuroVisual Medicine Institute teaches can be to Binocular Vision Dysfunction (BVD) patients. If you are a doctor that is looking to differentiate your practice or looking to spend more time with patients, this is an avenue for you! They discuss how NeuroVisual Medicine Institute can provide training and tools and how to implement it within a practice.
This is truly an episode you do not want to miss!
For more information or to get in contact with NeuroVisual Medicine Institute, email us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Listen in as we have Robert Stensland, Founder and Principal Architect with Optometric Architects, join us again to emphasize how important it is to have an Architect on your project team!
Scott Cline and Robert discuss how an architect is not just there to design a floor plan, but they assist a doctor in creating the experience in the practice. When Optometric Architects designs a space, they look at how the flow of the office will work, the functionality of the whole building and each individual room, and how to make sure it is up to code and safe. An Architect can be that liaison between the doctor and contractor to make sure the project runs smoothly!
If you have not listened to their first podcast episode, we highly encourage you check it out!
For more information or to get in contact with Rob and his team, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Please join us as Rick Guinotte sits down with Wes Stoody, Founder and CEO of Article One Eyewear!
Wes shares with Rick how Article One Eyewear's collections are a great addition to a practice that is looking for timeless, quality pieces. They are designed with the goal to become heirlooms and last decades. The values of Article One Eyewear are shown at every stage of the frame production process.
To connect with Article One Eyewear, you can reach out to Wes at wes@articleoneeyewear.com. If you would like to learn more about opening account with them you can contact their customer service team to be put in touch with your local representative at service@articleoneeyewear.com.
As always, we are happy to connect you just simply email us at info@acquiosalliance.com
Join our hosts, Rick Guinotte, Tim Merrigan, and Scott Cline, as they discuss when and how an owner should prepare for retirement and passing the legacy of their practice to the next person.
They touch on topics for not only a single doctor practice, but a multi-doctor practice as well. Topics that are covered include, when should one start planning, who should they have them help with their succession plan, and what should the plan look like!
If you have any questions or interested in learning more about setting up a succession plan, please reach out to Acquios Advisors at info@acquios.com.
Join the conversation as Rick Guinotte talks with Matthew Wess, Director of Vision Technology Solutions with Carl Zeiss Vision!
They discuss some of the fantastic equipment that Zeiss offers like the VisuFit 1000, iProfiler, and Visu360. They go in depth how these instruments can set your office apart from others and improve the experience your patients receive in the practice. Learn how Zeiss has continued to be a leader in Equipment Technology for 175 years!
If you are interested in learning more about the instruments mentioned, reach out to your Zeiss Representative or visit their amazing Kentucky Showroom. We can help connect you with a Zeiss Representative as well, please email us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Please listen in as our very own Scott Cline sits down with Todd Maple, The CEO and Director of Business Development with Greenleaf Payment Services. They discuss how Greenleaf provides a unique approach by working closely to customize the payment processing system for your needs. They work with Certified Protected Services so you can be assured that when patients use your system, their information is secure.
To learn more, reach out to info@acquiosalliance.com and we can connect you with Greenleaf Payment Services.
Listen in to the conversation between our very own Tim Merrigan and Brian Kessler, National Sales Manager with OptiSource.
They discuss how OptiSource can provide thousands of products for your whole practice and not just for the optical. They offer monthly specials, exclusive products, bundle packages for start up practices, and a great deal for Acquios Alliance Members. OptiSource can help you set your practice apart and provide the best products to your patients.
For more information check out OptiSource's website 1-800-optisource.com
Or email Acquios Alliance at info@acquiosalliance.com to get connected with OptiSource.
Join the conversation as Tim Merrigan sits down with Artur Pilat, Founder and President, and Matthew Gatlin, Vice President of Sales, with OVVO Optics. They discuss how this groundbreaking frame company was founded, how they changed the game with their temples and screws, their eye-catching displays, and the various collections they offer. They also highlight their valuable kids' line that can bring a great benefit to your practice.
Tim Merrigan sits down with Patrick McCarthy Vice President of Hoya Vision Care. " Hoya is dedicated to helping you achieve the practice you envision – every step of the way. Whether it is a patient who needs your care or a customer who looks to you for advice, we are here to help you shape the best customer experience. You can also count on us to help you run and expand your business. With education and insights for you and your team. And by providing you with support, technology and systems to optimize your practice. We consider our partnership successful when you have everything you need: to empower your patients’ lives, with the gift of clear eyesight." For more information about Hoya or any of the Acquios Alliance Vendor Partners please email us at info@acquios.com
Tim Merrigan sits down with Jason Blue, Chief Sales Officer of Arbor Eyewear and Forall Frameworks. Tim and Jason discuss Forall Frameworks, the newest frame line made and manufactured in the United States.
Forall Frameworks designs, creates, and manufactures their frames from start to finish in Lubbock, Texas.
They are committed to the highest-quality craftsmanship utilizing modern technology along with traditional handcrafting.
There are over 50 steps to produce a single frame and they are able to control that process to ensure functionality, comfort, and a product that lasts a lifetime.
Tim Merrigan sits down to chat with Robert Nunziato, Head of Inside Sales and Operations with Sunbit. Robert and Tim discuss what makes Sunbit different from the "other guys" and why having their services is a no brainer for your practice. "Sunbit is a buy now, pay over time service that allows your patients to make larger purchases in your office by spreading out the payments." Sunbit offers 3, 6, and 12 month payment plans with 3 months being 0% interest. Sunbit also has a 90% approval rating, giving your patients more opportunity to use this service in your practice.
To get more information from Sunbit visit: optical.sunbit.com/Acquios
For questions or more information on all of our Vendor Partners email us at info@acquiosalliance.com
Join the conversation as Rick Guinotte sits down in person with Jesse Fisher, CEO, and John Nyberg, COO, with Binovia. They chat about how crucial it is to make sure your server is working properly and monitor your IT systems on a regular basis so you don't "set it and forget it". Jesse and John discuss Binovia can help your practice. They can set up IT systems, monitor, and assist with miscommunications between multiple digital systems. This episode will provide clarity to your IT questions and answers the biggest IT question we are all thinking, "what is the cloud?" .
Rick Guinotte sits down with President of Marketing, Andrew Hyncik with ZEISS Optics. The two discuss the huge milestone of Zeiss' 175th birthday. The newest ZEISS Vision Care headquarters as well as the innovative Virtual ZEISS Experience Center. Listen in as Rick and Andrew have what is promised to be an episode full of information you will not want to miss.
Tour the new ZEISS Vision Care headquarters - Drone Video https://youtu.be/9bHreXu1PR8
Tour the ZEISS Virtual Experience Center: ZEISS Customer Experience Center - Northern Kentucky
175 Years Video: https://youtu.be/oms-PlAkNcs
This week Tim sits down to talk with CARR Realty's National Director, Ken Jorgenson. Ken and Tim chat about the current state of the realty market and what CARR Realty can do for you and your practice as an exclusive Vendor Partner of Acquios Alliance.
We are excited to have Ken back on to discuss the market and what the industry looks like since we last spoke to him. For questions about CARR Realty, or any of our other Vendor Partners, please reach out to us by email at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Tim Merrigan is joined by Jill Harder, Strategic Account Manager with 4Patient Care. Jill and Tim discuss the importance of easy, convenient patient scheduling within your practice. 4Patient Care is the only patient engagement and appointment scheduling solution focused exclusively on the eye care industry, they are uniquely positioned to equip your practice for sustained success. Their friendly, dedicated team has over 20 years of experience delivering innovative solutions to practices like yours. Listen in as this episode is sure to bring you valuable insight within the patient experience.
Rick and Tim sit down to talk all things Acquios Alliance; what inspired them to start the Alliance and what it has become today. They discuss all of the incredible Vendor Partners that have partnered with the Alliance since 2020 and how it continues to grow. Sit back, relax, and listen to the dynamic duo bring you a few laughs plus lots of information on Exclusive Vendor Partners and how they can benefit every area of your private practice.
Rick sit's down with Acquios Advisors very own Kendall Guinotte.
The two discuss all things that come with entering the fourth and final quarter. From encouraging your patients to spend their HSA/FSA funds in your office before the end of the year, to promoting a positive and uplifting culture within your practice and team. You don't want to miss this episode, whether you are listening on your drive into work or while you are making dinner for the family, you will learn something new, and laugh a bit too.
Rick Guinotte and Tim Merrigan sit down and talk about navigating all of the changes that have been taking place during the months of August and September and what we might expect as we move into the last months of 2021. Specifically, they discuss:
- Reconciling the HHS funds that were distributed due to Covid, and what you can and cannot do with those funds.
- Upcoming vaccine mandates being implemented federally and what changes you could see in your office with those mandate dates approaching.
- Encouraging good culture within your office among employees, and what you can do to actively and successfully recruit excellent employees to join your team.
- Remaining FSA and HSA funds patients may have and encouraging them to use those funds, within your office.
Sit back, relax, and listen as these two Advisors talk all things new and upcoming.
Join the conversation as Rick Guinotte chats with Everest Pandya with Nikon Optical!
Everest is the Director of Business Development with Nikon Optical USA. Nikon, whose name is synonymous with “the world’s finest lenses”, has been providing millions of people across the world and beyond, with a sharper point of view through the most trusted and sought-after optical products for over 100 years. Everest explains what sets Nikon apart from it's competitors and why they truly enjoy working with private practice opticians.
Check out their website, https://www.nikonlenswear.com/, to see examples of their lenses.
If you would like to get in touch with Everest over at Nikon, please email info@acquiosalliance.com.
Join the conversation as Tim Merrigan chats with Robert Stensland with Optometric Architects!
Robert is the Principal Architect and founder of Optometric Architects. Him and his team work with Optometrists and Ophthalmologists on the designing and building processes of their practices. They assist doctors from the very beginning of offering advice on finding the perfect location, designing the floor plan, and working with general contractors through the buildout. The architects and interior designers of Optometric Architects are ready and able to help with setting up a brand new practice or remodeling an existing practice!
Check out their website, http://www.optometricarchitects.com/ , to see gorgeous examples of practices they have worked with!
If you would like to get in touch with Robert and his team at Optometric Architects, please email info@acquiosalliance.com.
Join us as we learn about an Eyewear Vendor that not only offers unique frames, but a unique way of bringing their product into your practice!
Tim Merrigan has a conversation with Natasha Vora, CEO and Founder of Twelve84. Natasha provides insight on Twelve84's subscription based services, providing not only frames but lenses too, and the different packages available for patients.
Most importantly, Twelve84 is a supporter of independent private practices, their product is only available in practices. Browse Online. Buy Local.
To check out Twelve84, visit their website https://twelve84.com/ or check out their social media pages.
As always, if you would like to connect with Twelve84, email us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Listen in as Rick Guinotte chats with Patrick Curran, Vice President National Accounts with EyePromise!
Rick and Patrick discuss the various supplements that EyePromise offers, the simplicity of bringing EyePromise into your practice, their subscription services, and more. EyePromise values the importance of partnerships. They are not only a Vendor partner with the Acquios Aliance, but a partner to many major sports teams, including the Red Sox. The partnerships they value the most are with Optometrists to support patient care.
To learn more about EyePromise and the supplements they offer, check out their website eyepromise.com.
As always, reach out to Acquios Alliance to get connected with EyePromise at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Listen in as Rick Guinotte talks with Dr. Paul Kim, Founder of MASQ Eyewear, about how MASQ can be a great addition to any practice's optical! They discuss how MASQ provides eyewear with great colors, shapes, and fit, ships quickly, and offers a fantastic warranty. They want to see private practices succeed and compete with the larger chains.
If you would like to learn more about their amazing frames, check out their website at masqeyewear.com or their various social media pages like Facebook and Instagram!
As always, you can contact us at info@acquiosalliance.com and we can put you in touch with MASQ Eyewear.
We know one of the largest obstacles that private practices face is providing their team with an affordable healthcare program. This is where our Vendor Partner, Empower Health and Wellness comes in!
Join Rick Guinotte as he talks with the CEO and Co Founder of Empower Health and Wellness, Todd Gaddis, MD to learn about this great company and the services they provide!
Empower Health and Wellness is a subscription based Healthcare service that is affordable and convenient. Rather than going to a doctor's office, your employees can talk with Dr. Gaddis and his team via video conferencing, phone calls, or even text messaging. Listen to learn more about how they can offer Direct Primary Care, Urgent Care, and more!
Check out Empower Health and Wellness at www.empowermyhealth.today or their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Empowermyhealthtodaytoday
You can also reach out to Acquios Alliance at info@acquiosalliance.com and we can connect with you with Dr. Gaddis.
*Please note that pricing mentioned within this episode is as of Spring 2021.
Please join us for an exciting conversation as Tim Merrigan talks with Dr. Jennifer DenHartog, Private Practice Optometrist and Owner of Premier Vision Clinic!
Dr. DenHartog tells us why she chose to open her own practice and all of the fantastic technology she has brought in to provide her patients with the best care. They discuss The IPL from Lumenis, Neurolens, and Scleral Lenses. Lumenis and Neurolens are two wonderful Vendors with Acquios Alliance.
Technology can be a useful tool to provide great care for your patients and Dr. DenHartog shows that it can enhance your practice.
As always, if you have any questions, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Join us for a special episode where Rick Guinotte chats with Tim Merrigan of Acquios Advisors about how to make your CV unique.
Now is a great time to update or start creating your Curricula Vitae! They discuss the importance of a Cover Letter, formatting your CV, and what information is relevant. This episode is not just for someone looking at private practice, but any avenue you are considering!
If you would like assistance meeting with Optometrists all over the country, reach out to Acquios Advisors at info@acquios.comor info@acquiosalliance.com and we can connect you! Acquios Advisors will be more than happy to assist at no cost.
You can also submit your CV at www.acquios.com by going to the Services tab and find the page "Take the Next Step: Submit your CV"!
Join us for a supersized episode of Thrive with Confidence where we talk with OGI Eyewear!
Tim Merrigan chats with Rob Rich, CEO, David Duralde, Chief Creative Officer, and Zac Bidwell, Sales Director with OGI Eyewear. They discuss how OGI has continued to keep independent private practices a priority, the color and shimmer that they bring to their lines to set them apart, and how they have been supporting practices through the pandemic.
They are Independents for the Independent!
Check out their website, OGIeyewear.com and their social media pages to see the amazing collections they offer!
To get in contact with OGI Eyewear, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Join the conversation with Rick Guinotte of Acquios Advisors and Dr. Jason Hurley, Private Practice Optometrist and Owner of Eyecare of Rigby in Rigby, Idaho.
During this episode, we discuss Dr. Hurley's extensive experience in Private Practice ownership; from opening cold, to adding an Associate Optometrist, to expanding his practice, to where he is today.
Dr. Hurley says one of the best things you can do is differentiate your practice from others. He does this by bringing in specialty services like a Dry Eye Clinic with MiBoFlo treatment and Acquios Alliance Vendor, Neurolens. He provides advice on how to incorporate specialty services in your practice.
Rick and Dr. Hurley also discuss a current opportunity to join Dr. Hurley's thriving practice as an Associate Optometrist. If you would like more information, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com!
Welcome to our final installment of our Three-Part Series, Marketing your Private Optometry Practice in 2021!
Finish the conversation with the Owners of Acquios Advisors as they talk about getting your team involved in your 2021 plans!
Tim, Kirk, and Rick discuss how the slower times from 2020 will offer space for staff trainings and retreats, the importance of listening to and involving team members in marketing decisions, and how impactful performance reviews and staff surveys can be.
Thank you for joining the conversation and listening to our series! Happy Holidays and we will see you in the New Year!
Welcome back to our Series, Marketing your Private Optometry Practice in 2021!
In Episode Two, the Owners of Acquios Advisors continue their conversation from Part One discussing how to start 2021 off on the right foot!
Rick, Tim, and Kirk discuss how to implement new instruments and specialties to invest in your practice, how to network yourself within the community, and how to plan events in a socially distanced world.
Check our Part One if you have not yet, and be sure to tune in to Part Three on Dec. 23rd!
Welcome to the First Part of our Three-Part Series, Marketing your Private Optometry Practice in 2021!
During this episode, the Owners of Acquios Advisors, Rick Guinotte, Tim Merrigan, and Kirk Kastens have a conversation regarding how to navigate this new year after the unexpected 2020. They will address various topics such as anticipating slower times when your practice was closed in 2020, maintaining sanitation procedures, analyzing insurance plans, and working smarter not harder in 2021!
Be sure to listen to Part Two and Part Three to continue the conversation! Part Two will be released on Dec. 22nd and Part Three will be released on Dec. 23rd.
The Vendor Spotlight this week is on Insurance Design Management! Our very own Tim Merrigan talks with Brandon Dirkschneider, Managing Principal, and Cindy Bojanski, Senior Analyst and VP of sales, with Insurance Design Management. They discuss the importance of making sure you have all your bases covered with Disability Insurance, Life insurance, Estate and Transition Planning, and other products. Insurance Design Management is there to help you and design a plan that is unique to you!
Check them out at www.insdm.com and their various social media pages!
If you would like to get in contact with Brandon or Cindy, please reach out to us at info@acquiosalliance.com.
Welcome to another episode where we shine the Vendor Spotlight on Arbor Eyewear! Rick Guinotte chats with Arbor Eyewear's Chief Sales Officer, Jason Blue. They discuss topics like how Arbor Eyewear got its start, how unique their frames really are, and their passion for making a difference in communities with their Tree + 3 program. This is an Independent Line you don't want to miss out on!
If you would like to learn more about their amazing frames and their Tree + 3 program, check out their website at arboreyewear.com or their various social media pages like Facebook and Instagram!
As always, you can contact us at info@acquiosalliance.com and we can put you in touch with Arbor Eyewear.
On this episode of Thrive with Confidence, Tim Merrigan talks with the President of Abyde, Matt DiBlasi! They discuss what it means to be HIPAA Compliant and how important it is for a practice to maintain their compliance. Abyde makes HIPAA simple and gives practices a peace of mind!
Check out Abyde at their website specifically for Acquios Alliance Members: https://abyde.com/acquios-alliance/
Be sure to request a demo to see how simple and easy Abyde is!
You can also email info@acquiosalliance.com for more information or to get in contact with somone at Abyde.
In this episode, we highlight a Frame Vendor that is all about Statements and being BOLD!
Rick Guinotte has a discussion with Bill Connely, Account Executive, and Vicky Perez, Marketing Coordinator, with Etnia Barcelona. They discuss where the inspiration for their amazing frame lines come from and how they are striving to make private practices unique. This is one frame company that has no problems showing how unique and great they are!
Check them out at their website Etniabarcelona.com and Instagram and Facebook pages.
You can also email info@acquiosalliance.com and we will connect you with Etnia Barcelona.
On this episode of Vendor Spotlight, Tim Merrigan has a conversation with Ivan Coco, the Senior Director of Business Development for Heartland!
Tim and Ivan discuss how Heartland makes receiving payments easy and secure and they explore the different services that Heartland can offer with payment systems and payroll. Ivan also shares how Heartland has adjusted receiving payments with the Covid Pandemic by offering contact free transactions!
Check out Heartland at Heartlandpaymentsystems.com or email Acquios Alliance at info@acquiosalliance.com to learn more!
MP Consulting joins us for another Vendor Spotlight! Rick Guinotte sat down with Madeline Poteat, the Founder and Partner with MP Consulting. They had a great discussion on why marketing is so important for optometry practices and how MP Consulting can cater to a practices marketing needs. Madeline also provides great tips on how a practice can utilize social media, email, and reviews to reach their patients!
Check out MP Consulting at mpconsultingfirm.com and their Social media links by searching MP Consulting!
Listen to Tim Merrigan and Jacquelyn Hurley, Business Development Manager with Solutionreach, discuss all of the fantastic features and tools that Solutionreach has to offer! They talk about SR's Two Way Conversations, Telehealth communication, Smart Reviews, and more. Learn how to improve your patients' digital journey!
To schedule a Demo and learn more about Solutionreach, text "eyecare" to 66866 or check out Solutionreach.com!
On this episode, our Vendor Spotlight features Anagram! Rick Guinotte and Anagram's CEO, Jeremy Bluvol, discuss how Anagram is rearranging the way healthcare is provided. Learn how Anagram can be implemented in your practice. Anagram is a vital system for a private practice to unlock out-of-network benefits and provide care to a wider patient base!
Make sure to check out Anagram at Anagram.care or their social media pages on Facebook and Twitter!
Anagram is a proud vendor of Acquios Alliance!
The Spotlight this week is on CARR Healthcare Realty!
Our very own Tim Merrigan chats with Ken Jorgenson, Director of Corporate Relationships and Events with CARR. They discuss why it is so important to have an agent that is knowledgeable in the needs for a medical practice and how they help find the perfect space! Questions that are answered include "Is it better to lease or buy a building?", "How does the process work?", and "Does CARR help with Renewals?".
Check out CARR Healthcare Realty at carr.us or their social media pages on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Youtube!
We are proud to have CARR Healthcare Realty as an Acquios Alliance Vendor!
Welcome to the second episode in our series Vendor Spotlight! Rick Guinotte has a conversation with Aric Plumley and Matt Swartz, from Neurolens, and Dr. Michelle Ahumada, an optometrist who has Neurolens in her practice. Aric, Neurolens' Chief Technology Officer, and Matt, Neurolens' VP of Sales and Development, discuss how Neurolenses were created and the success they have had so far. Dr. Michelle describes how Neurolens was successfully implemented in her practice.
Find more information about Neurolens at their website www.neurolenses.com and their social media facebook.com/neurolenses. Also be sure to check out their Virtual Booth which will allow you to see a walkthrough of their measurement device, courtesy of Aric Plumley! It can be found at https://hs.neurolenses.com/websitevbth-home.
If you have any questions or would like to get in touch with Neurolens, contact Acquios Alliance at info@acquios.com!
Rick Guinotte and Tim Merrigan discuss the different options that an Optometrist or a new Graduate of Optometry School are faced with when searching for a job. They talk about about the difference in choosing a Chain Store or a Private Practice.
Send your CV to Acquios at info@acquios.com. We will help connect you with open positions at no cost!
And as always, check out the Alliance at www.acquiosalliance.com or our Facebook page facebook.com/acquiosalliance!
Welcome to the first episode in our series, Vendor Spotlight! Tim Merrigan talks with Brad Sultan, the CEO and Founder of Kids Bright Eyes. They discuss how Kids Bright Eyes was created, how they are improving how kids wear glasses, and what amazing deals they offer to Alliance Members.
Check out their website at www.kidsbrighteyes.com and their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/kidsbrighteyes
We are proud to have Kids Bright Eyes as a frame vendor in the Acquios Alliance!
Let's start at the beginning to learn how the Acquios Alliance was created. Rick Guinotte discusses the birth of the word "Acquios" and how the idea formed for our Alliance. Rick touches on what it means to be a member of Acquios Alliance and the benefits available to our members. Be sure to check out our Newsletter, if you are a member, and follow us on Facebook!