In this episode, Michael Nasser introduces the new “Through the Lens” series, which explores the personal and professional journeys of influential figures in the eye health industry. Our first guest for this series is Paul Clarke, an optical dispenser and Advisory Board Member of ODA.
Paul shares his journey of building his career from optical mechanics to co-founding the charitable institution, Equal Health. He highlights the impact of professional networking and continuous learning through organizations like the International Opticians Association (IOA), the significance of in-house manufacturing, and having a clear business model that attracts the right clientele.
Paul Clarke has been a passionate advocate for the optical profession; his technical expertise and innovative approach set high standards in the industry. He played a vital role in the deregulation movement of the mid-1990s. Paul also served as the first president of the Australasian Dispensing Opticians Association and the International Opticians Association president.
Key Topics with Timestamps:
03:11 - Paul Clarke’s career background
04:49 - Difference between optical mechanics and optical dispenser
06:39 - Founding and evolution of Vision West
08:32 - Key elements to enable a practice to grow and succeed
09:39 - Creating a business model that attracts the right clientele
11:57 - Importance of staff training in optical mechanics and dispensing
13:39 - Building long-term customer loyalty through exceptional services
16:43 - Paul’s involvement in the deregulation movement in the mid-1990s
22:14 - Impact of IOA professional perspective
23:26 - Founding and mission of Equal Health
27:28 - Memorable experience in India
29:53 - Services Equal Health provide to the locals in India
31:48 - Equal Health service expansion
35:07 - Myopia management and behavioural optometry
39:41 - Paul’s current role in Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA)
41:44 - Career reflection and final thoughts
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!
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