Mission:Optician
United Opticians Association
5.0from 6 ratings
- 16
- Episodes
- 6
- Ratings
- Bi-weekly
- Cadence
- 2026
- First episode
About Mission:Optician
Mission:Optician is the opticianry news + views podcast from the United Opticians Association (UOA). Created by and for opticians, the show brings together insights and leadership from across the profession. On Mission:Optician, we dive into the ideas, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of opticianry — exploring the trends, innovations, and strategies that strengthen our profession, elevate patient care, and advance our shared national goals.
- Publisher
- United Opticians Association
- Category
- education
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 30 Mar 2026
- Latest episode
- 13 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
16 episodes in the feed.
13 Oct 2026
Beyond the Frame: The Art of Communicating Lens Value | Albert Pogorschelske, Horizons Optical
What happens when patients see their frames as a personal choice, but their lenses as a commodity? In this episode, Albert Pogorschelske, vice president of Horizons Optical of America, sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), to discuss how to make the value of the lens more tangible — and how technology can help opticians create a one-of-a-kind experience that patients can't get online. Albert explains how personalized lens technology, including gaze-dynamic measurements and virtual reality, can turn the patient into a participant in the lens-selection process. He also shares practical tools to help opticians demonstrate the differences between lenses. Hear about the importance of customer experience and attention to detail, the role of AI in the profession, and why he believes optician certification should expand across the United States. In this episode, you will learn: Why patients may understand the value of a premium frame more easily than a premium lens How personalized technology can change the patient experience and create greater engagement with the lens What skills opticians will need to grow as technology changes the eye care industry This episode is brought to you by Horizons Optical: https://horizonsoptical.com/en-us/home Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org
29 Sept 2026
How Opticians Can Use AI to Sharpen Their Skills | Dr. Haley Perry, EssilorLuxottica
How can AI help opticians navigate patient conversations and make data-driven decisions for their practices? In this episode, Dr. Haley Perry, senior manager of professional affairs with EssilorLuxottica, shows how opticians can use AI to strengthen the important work they already do in conversation with Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA). Dr. Perry shares specific AI use cases, such as role-playing difficult patient conversations, practicing lens recommendations and upsells, and translating technical lens information into language the patient understands. Hear when not to trust AI, how to verify sources, and more innovative ways that opticians can use AI beyond patient conversations. In this episode, you will learn: Practical uses of AI for opticians, including thinking through objections and helping patients understand their insurance or benefits When not to trust AI, and tips to catch inaccurate or incomplete answers How AI can analyze inventory and sales data to identify what's selling, what's not, and where the practice could make changes This episode is brought to you by EssilorLuxottica: https://www.essilorluxottica.com/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org The intent of this podcast is to educate eye care professionals (ECPs). Any advice provided is general in nature and ECPs should practice within their professional scope and in accordance with local regulations.
15 Sept 2026
The Future of Optician Training and Certification | Brian Diener, Optical Training Institute
Does 10 years of experience automatically make you a better optician than someone with two? Not necessarily. Brian Diener, director at the Optical Training Institute (OTI), sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director at United Opticians Association (UOA), to explore what it takes to become a confident and effective optician. Brian explains why a résumé doesn't tell the full story, how hiring assessments can reveal strengths and knowledge gaps, and why every optician's learning path is different. The conversation takes a closer look at apprenticeship training, where requirements can vary dramatically between states. Hear what meaningful on-the-job training can look like and the specific skills employers look for when hiring opticians. Brian and Gwen also discuss certification, workforce shortages, and the push for greater consistency across opticianry — including clearer job titles and standards. In this episode, you will learn: Why years of experience don’t always reflect an optician’s true knowledge and skills What separates being supervised on the job from having a mentor who actively teaches on-the-job competencies How certification and clearer job titles can establish a standard for optician competency This episode is brought to you by Optical Training Institute: http://opticaltraining.com Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org
1 Sept 2026
Rethinking Vision Plans and Optician Independence | Steve Alexander, Anagram
What happens when vision plan requirements influence the way opticians provide care? Steve Alexander, vice president of industry and strategic partnerships at Anagram, returns to Mission:Optician to continue the conversation around vision plans, practice independence, and the future of opticianry. In conversation with Bob Alexander, director of education at United Opticians Association (UOA), Steve explores how vision plan structures, operational autonomy, and reimbursement models impact the decisions opticians make each day. In this episode, you will learn: How lab choice, chargebacks, and reimbursement structures influence product decisions and profitability How practices can improve patient relationships and staff morale by reducing administrative barriers The demographic shifts in the eye care industry that could create opportunities for opticians to expand their roles This episode is brought to you by Anagram: https://www.goanagram.com/ Enjoyed this conversation? Listen to Steve’s first Mission:Optician episode where he breaks down vision benefits and reimbursements: https://missionoptician.podbean.com/e/vision-benefits-explained-steve-alexander-anagram/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org
18 Aug 2026
What It Takes to Deliver Exceptional Eyewear | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network
What separates a good pair of glasses from a great one? According to Brandon Butler, president and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, it starts long before the lenses reach the patient. In this episode, Bob Alexander, director of education at United Opticians Association (UOA), sits down with Brandon for a conversation about craftsmanship, education, and unifying opticianry. Fresh off receiving the prestigious 2026 Goodfellow Award from The Vision Council, Brandon explains why preserving the art of lens manufacturing is just as important as embracing new technologies. He also shares how decades of experience across the optical industry shaped his approach to building an independent lab and how better-trained opticians improve patient care, reduce costly remakes, and help practices operate more efficiently. In this episode, you'll learn: Why understanding a patient's lifestyle is just as important as understanding their prescription Why finding the right role for each employee, including Brandon’s own sons, creates better business results The importance of collaboration between opticians and independent labs Brandon's vision of a more unified future for the optical industry This episode is brought to you by Artisan Lab Network: https://www.artisanlabnetwork.com/ Enjoyed this conversation? Listen to Brandon’s first Mission:Optician appearance where he explores industry consolidation and the rise of independent labs: https://missionoptician.podbean.com/e/independent-labs-and-the-future-of-opticianry-brandon-butler-artisan-lab-network/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
4 Aug 2026
From Order Taker to Trusted Advisor: Elevating the Optician's Role | Michael Gatti, HOYA Vision Care
Why are some opticians perceived as trusted advisors, while others are seen as order-takers? In this episode of Mission:Optician, Michael Gatti, Global Head of Learning and Sales Enablement at HOYA Vision Care, discusses the power of education in the optical industry in conversation with Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of the United Opticians Association (UOA). Michael shares why confident and well-trained opticians are critical to improving patient outcomes, reducing costly errors, and elevating the profession. He also reflects on HOYA Vision Care's commitment to optician education and workforce development, including the company’s longstanding partnership with the UOA Student to Leadership program. In this episode, you will learn: Why listening to patients and simplifying your message is often more important than explaining product features Why certification and continuing education are crucial to elevating the optician profession How the UOA Student to Leadership program exposes opticians to career paths and leadership opportunities across the optical industry This episode is brought to you by HOYA Vision Care: https://www.hoyavision.com/en-us/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
21 Jul 2026
Can Technology Expand Vision Care Access? | Tim Fern, Eyebot
How can technology expand access to vision care, and what role do opticians play in that future? In this episode, Tim Fern, chief commercial officer of Eyebot, joins host Gwen Cooper, Executive Director of the United Opticians Association (UOA), to discuss the gaps in access to vision care, industry workforce shortages, and how technology can make glasses more accessible without replacing opticians. Tim sheds light on how Eyebot works, where it fits in a patient’s journey, and the differences between an Eyebot vision test and a comprehensive eye exam. Hear why vision care access remains a challenge in rural communities, how Eyebot incorporates feedback from opticians to shape its product development, and why opticians and optometrists remain essential to delivering quality vision care. In this episode, you will learn: How workforce shortages are affecting access to vision care and patient wait times How technology can complement — but not replace — the expertise of opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists, and eye care professionals How Eyebot combines technology and doctor oversight to provide prescriptions to eligible patients This episode is brought to you by Eyebot: https://www.eyebot.co/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
7 Jul 2026
The Art and Science of Specialty Opticianry | Charlie Saccarelli, Chadwick Optical
What happens when a patient’s glasses match the prescription, but they still can’t see comfortably? In this episode, Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), sits down with Charlie Saccarelli, president of Chadwick Optical, to explore specialty opticianry, low vision, and patient-centered optical care. Charlie shares how Chadwick Optical works with specialty optometrists and ophthalmologists to help patients with complex visual needs. He reflects on mentorship, collaboration across the eye care industry, and the importance of creating solutions for patients who would otherwise be left behind. Hear why empathy and curiosity are essential for opticians, how automation has changed the optical industry, and Charlie’s perspective on certification and the future of the opticianry profession. In this episode, you will learn: What specialty opticianry is and why some patients require highly customized visual solutions Why a “correct” prescription doesn’t always guarantee comfortable vision How opticians bridge the gap between prescriptions and real-world patient outcomes This episode is brought to you by Chadwick Optical: https://chadwickoptical.com/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
23 Jun 2026
What Opticians Need to Know About Myopia Management | Dr. Monica Jong, EssilorLuxottica
What is myopia, and why are myopia rates increasing in children around the world? In this episode of Mission:Optician, host Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), sits down with Dr. Monica Jong, head of Medical Affairs, North America at EssilorLuxottica and a global leader in myopia management. Together, they break down the science, urgency, and real-world impact of myopia — especially in children. Dr. Jong defines myopia in simple terms and explores why myopia rates are rising, including the role of environmental factors like increased screen time and reduced time outdoors. She reflects on new treatment innovations like the Essilor® Stellest® lens and what this lens means for the future of patient care. They discuss the role of opticians in myopia management, how to communicate with parents, and why early intervention is key for children. In this episode, you will learn: What myopia is and how it affects long-term eye health Why myopia rates are rising globally and what’s driving this trend The optician’s role in educating patients and improving myopia outcomes Why comprehensive eye exams for children are more important than ever This episode is brought to you by EssilorLuxottica.--- Join us at UOA’s One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, where opticians, educators, and industry partners will gather to explore innovation, advocacy, and the future of the profession, including a special session with the Essilor® Stellest® Lens. Secure your spot: https://www.uoaleadership.org/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast --- The intent of this podcast is to educate eye care professionals (ECPs). Any advice provided is general in nature and ECPs should practice within their professional scope and in accordance with local regulations. INDICATIONS FOR USE The Essilor® Stellest® spectacle lens is indicated for the correction of myopia with and without astigmatism and for slowing the progression of myopia in children with non-diseased eyes, who, at the initiation of treatment, are aged 6-12 years and have spherical equivalent refraction of -0.75 D to - 4.50 D with astigmatism up to 1.50 D.
2 Jun 2026
Independent Labs and the Future of Opticianry | Brandon Butler, Artisan Lab Network
What role do independent labs play in today’s optical industry, and why should opticians be paying attention? In this episode of Mission:Optician, Brandon Butler, president and CEO of Artisan Lab Network, sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA). With more than two decades of experience across optics, lens manufacturing, and lab management, Brandon shares how the industry is evolving — from consolidation to the resurgence of independent labs — and what that means for opticians, patients, and the future of eye care. Plus, Brandon discusses his efforts to expand the optical workforce by training and hiring formerly incarcerated individuals, which creates pathways into opticianry for motivated new talent. In this episode, you will learn: The economics behind independent lab operations How industry consolidation has shaped lab options for independent practices Why the relationship between opticians and labs is more critical than ever How the Artisan Lab Network is reclaiming the art of lens manufacturing, and why that matters for patient outcomes This episode is brought to you by the Artisan Lab Network. Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
26 May 2026
Consumer Attitudes: What Patients Really Think About Opticians | The Vision Council
What do patients think an optician does? Do they assume opticians are licensed and certified? And how does that impact trust, policy, and the future of the profession? In 2025, the United Opticians Association partnered with The Vision Council to commission a national survey exploring consumer attitudes toward optician licensing and professional qualifications. In this data-driven episode of Mission:Optician, host Gwen Cooper, executive director of UOA, is joined by Bob Alexander, UOA’s director of education, and special guest Alysse Henkel, former vice president of research and inSights at The Vision Council, to unpack the findings from this consumer attitudes survey. They discuss the gaps between patient expectations and reality in opticianry and share key findings to inform lawmakers. Plus, hear what this data means for education pathways and elevating the opticianry profession — while celebrating the high satisfaction rates opticians already achieve. In this episode, you will learn: What consumers understand (and misunderstand) about opticians What patients expect from opticians in terms of certification and qualifications Why opticians earn high satisfaction ratings and how to keep building on that success How UOA and The Vision Council transformed “anec-data” into research-backed findings that can drive advocacy Explore the consumer attitudes survey results at https://www.opticians.org/consumer-attitudes Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
19 May 2026
Vision Benefits Explained | Steve Alexander, Anagram
What are vision benefits, and what do opticians need to understand about how they work? In this episode of Mission:Optician, Steve Alexander, vice president of industry and strategic partnerships at Anagram, sits down with Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), to unpack vision benefits, insurance, and the systems that shape today’s optical industry. Steve shares a candid look at how vision plans work, why reimbursements haven’t kept pace, and how this impacts day-to-day optical practices based on his 25 years of experience across opticianry, practice management, and healthcare technology. In this episode, you will learn: What vision benefits cover and how they differ from traditional insurance Why patients often struggle to understand (and use) their benefits The underlying reasons why vision plan reimbursements have remained stagnant How tools like Anagram help opticians verify eligibility, streamline workflows, and improve patient access This episode is brought to you by Anagram. Join us at UOA’s One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, where opticians, educators, and industry partners will gather to explore innovation, advocacy, and the future of the profession. Secure your spot: https://www.uoaleadership.org/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
5 May 2026
How ANSI Standards Shape Opticianry and Patient Safety | Michael Vitale, The Vision Council
How do ANSI standards impact opticians, patient safety, and the optical industry as a whole? Michael Vitale, vice president of membership, government relations, and technical affairs at The Vision Council, sits down with host Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association (UOA), to explore why standards are essential for safe and effective eyecare. Michael breaks down the latest updates to ANSI Z80.1 for prescription lenses and ANSI Z80.3 for sunglasses and fashion eyecare, highlighting the real-world implications for opticians, consumers, and manufacturers. Hear insights from his four-decade career as a licensed optician, why certification is crucial for opticians, and how standards impact emerging technologies like 3D-printed frames. In this episode, you will learn: Why opticians should understand ANSI standards How state associations play a critical role in advancing the profession What’s coming next on Mission:Optician, including upcoming speakers and topics Join us at UOA’s One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, where opticians, educators, and industry partners will gather to explore innovation, advocacy, and the future of the profession. Secure your spot: https://www.uoaleadership.org/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
21 Apr 2026
An Industry Perspective on Opticianry | Scott Harris Shapiro, Europa Eyewear
In this episode, Scott Harris Shapiro, executive director industry relations for Europa Eyewear, joins host Gwen Cooper, executive director of United Opticians Association, for a candid and wide-ranging conversation on advocacy, education, and the future of opticianry. Scott shares why government relations and policy are top priorities and makes the case for helping more opticians recognize the true value and impact of their profession. Gwen and Scott explore the impact of certification, especially from the consumer’s perspective, and discuss how better-trained opticians can reduce returns, improve patient outcomes, and drive revenue for optical practices. Plus, Scott reflects on what it was like to grow up in a family business and how he aims to maintain those people-first values as the company grows. In this episode, you will learn: Why advocacy and legislation are essential to advancing opticianry What the data reveals about consumer expectations — and how opticians can respond Why stronger collaboration among opticians, optometrists, and industry partners benefits everyone --- Join us at UOA’s One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, where opticians, educators, and industry partners will gather to explore innovation, advocacy, and the future of the profession. Secure your spot: https://www.uoaleadership.org/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
7 Apr 2026
Why Opticians Need a National Voice
What role do opticians play in improving patient outcomes, and why does the profession need a unified national voice? In this debut episode of Mission:Optician, the official podcast of the United Opticians Association (UOA), host Gwen Cooper, executive director, sits down with Bob Alexander, licensed optician and director of member education, to introduce the mission behind the organization and discuss the future of opticianry. They reflect on why opticians are essential to patient care, how the UOA is working to unify the profession, and what it will take to strengthen education, advocacy, and collaboration across the optical industry. In this episode, you will learn: Why education and minimum competencies for opticians are a national priority How state associations play a critical role in advancing the profession What’s coming next on Mission:Optician, including upcoming speakers and topics Gwen and Bob also preview the UOA One Vision | One Voice | One UOA Leadership Conference taking place June 25-27 in Chicago, where opticians, educators, and industry partners will gather to explore innovation, advocacy, and the future of the profession. Secure your spot: https://uoaleadership.org/ Learn more about UOA and join our growing community at https://opticians.org Shape the conversation on Mission:Optician! Tell us what topics and guests you want us to feature next at https://opticians.org/podcast
30 Mar 2026
Mission:Optician — Official Trailer
Welcome to Mission:Optician, the official podcast of the United Opticians Association — created for opticians, industry partners, and anyone passionate about the future of eyecare! In this teaser from our first episode, executive director Gwen Cooper shares the show's vision, what listeners can expect, and why elevating opticians leads to better patient outcomes. Follow Mission:Optician on your favorite podcast platform as we bring together voices from across the optical field to inform, connect, and move the industry forward.
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- Apple Podcasts (US)
- 5.0 / 5
- 5 ratings
- Spotify
- 5.0 / 5
- 1 ratings
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