EYEconic is the official podcast of the NSU Oklahoma College of Optometry, hosted by Dr. Joseph Shetler—Professor of Optometry, Assistant Dean and Clinic Chief. Each episode explores clinical pearls, professional insights, industry news, and practical wisdom to educate, inform, and inspire optometrists, students, and eye care professionals.
Educate. Inform, Inspire. EYEConic.
What happens when your first job as an optometrist also makes you a military leader?For Dr. Ridwan Carim-Sanni, graduating from SUNY College of Optometry meant stepping into the U.S. Army as a captain and taking on responsibilities far beyond the exam room. In episode 5 of the EYEConic NSUOCO Podcast, he joins Dr. Joseph Shetler to share how military service has shaped his approach to patient care, leadership, and lifelong learning.From caring for new recruits and military families to upgrading a clinic and managing its resources, Dr. Carim-Sanni offers a look at the clinical and administrative sides of Army optometry. He discusses the Health Professions Scholarship Program, the sense of belonging that comes with service, and why he chose to pursue an ocular disease residency alongside an MBA at Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry.The conversation also follows his journey from Nigeria to New York and Oklahoma, with stops for language learning, soccer, and life as a father. Along the way, he shares why emergency care excites him, what further training can offer, and the advice he would give students preparing for their first years in practice: be confident, stay proactive, and keep learning.Featuring Dr. Ridwan Carim-Sanni, U.S. Army captain, ocular disease resident, and MBA candidate.
22 Oct 2026
Optometry Beyond the Exam Room with Dr. Aaron Goffinet
Dr. Joseph Shetler sits down with Dr. Aaron Goffinet, Director of Professional Affairs for Universities at EssilorLuxottica, to explore the opportunities an optometry degree can open beyond the exam room.Dr. Goffinet traces his journey from clinical practice to pharmaceutical sales, optical laboratories, and his current role working with optometry schools across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. He shares how persistence, networking, and learning to communicate his value helped him find a career that combines his passion for optometry with education and professional relationships.Topics include preparing for interviews, recognizing your transferable skills, patient education, prescribing spectacle lenses, building productive relationships with industry representatives, and the value optometrists bring to the companies that support the profession. The conversation also touches on NSUOCO’s new facilities, supporting students, and a spirited exchange about Indiana football before closing with advice for the next generation of optometrists.Whether you’re considering optometry school, currently a student, an alumnus, or already practicing, this episode offers an inside look at the many ways to build a fulfilling career in optometry while keeping people at the center of your work.Guest: Dr. Aaron Goffinet, Director of Professional Affairs for Universities, EssilorLuxottica
8 Oct 2026
National Leadership & Investing in Optometry’s Future with Chase Bowerman
Dr. Joseph Shetler sits down with Chase Bowerman, a fourth-year optometry student at NSUOCO and President of the American Optometric Student Association (AOSA), representing more than 7,100 optometry students nationwide.Chase traces his journey from serving as NSUOCO’s trustee-elect to leading AOSA on the national stage. He discusses how a visit to Capitol Hill sparked his passion for advocacy, why Oklahoma’s expanded scope of practice inspires student leaders, and how professional involvement can shape both an individual career and the future of optometry.Whether you’re considering optometry school, currently a student, an alumnus, or already practicing, this episode offers an inside look at how organized optometry develops leaders and advances the profession.Guest: Chase Bowerman, AOSA President (NSUOCO Class of 2027)
24 Sept 2026
Leadership, Student Advocacy & Thriving in Optometry School with Emma Brockman
Dr. Joseph Shetler sits down with Emma Brockman, a third-year optometry student at NSUOCO and President of the Oklahoma Optometric Student Association (OOSA).Emma shares what it’s like balancing clinic, coursework, and student leadership while discussing the value of professional involvement, networking, mentorship, and investing in yourself throughout optometry school.
Whether you’re considering optometry school, currently a student, or already practicing, this conversation offers an inside look at developing both clinical skills and professional leadership.Guest: Emma Brockman, OOSA President (NSUOCO Class of 2028)
10 Sept 2026
The Future of NSUOCO with Dean Nate Lighthizer
Welcome to the very first episode of the Eyeconic Podcast!Host Dr. Joseph Shetler sits down with Dr. Nathan “Dr. Nate” Lighthizer, Dean of the Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry (NSUOCO), to discuss the college’s future, its new facilities, clinical expansion, and what makes NSUOCO unique.Dr. Nate reflects on his journey from faculty member to dean, the importance of student-centered education, small class sizes, board success, research opportunities, community outreach, and the vision for the next generation of optometric education.---Whether you’re a prospective student, current student, alumnus, or practicing optometrist, this episode offers an inside look at where NSUOCO is headed.Guest: Dr. Nathan “Dr. Nate” Lighthizer, Dean, Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry
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