Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Light's Too Bright
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Episode 30 - Laura Williams | 31 août 2026 | 00:40:32 | |
Summary In this episode, Laura Williams shares her journey in optometry, her passion for myopia management, and insights into her diverse clinical practice and academic pursuits. Discover how her experiences and innovations are shaping the future of eye care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laura Williams and her practice 02:03 Laura's background and journey into optometry 03:59 Her diverse clinical interests and current roles 07:08 Educational pathway and unique university program 09:32 Deciding between hospital and practice 11:01 Experience at BBR and working with cutting-edge technology 12:58 Her long tenure at BBR and professional development 14:32 The significance of independent prescribing (IP) in practice 16:02 COVID-19 response and community care initiatives 18:07 Her passion for myopia management and innovations 19:54 The evolution of myopia treatments and her involvement 21:56 Team structure and specialization within BBR 24:05 Collaborative practice and shared expertise 26:00 Balancing clinical work and academic pursuits 28:01 Considering further academic qualifications and research 30:10 Advice for newly qualified optometrists 32:00 Maintaining passion and avoiding burnout 34:11 Closing thoughts and future aspirations | |||
| Episode 29 - ISCLS - Questions on a Boat | 31 juil. 2026 | 00:22:35 | |
Conversations from the Ocean: Exploring the Passion and Challenges of Optometry Join me on a remarkable journey aboard a boat off Portugal’s coast, where a series of candid interviews with optometrists reveal their dedication, innovations, and aspirations in eye care. This episode offers insights into the profession’s impact, current challenges, and future opportunities. Key Topics Covered:
00:00 - Introduction to the boat tour and spontaneous optometry interviews | |||
| Episode 28 - Sarah Farrant | 27 juin 2026 | 00:48:26 | |
Sarah Farrant shares her inspiring journey through optometry, from her early interests to her leadership roles and specialisation in dry eye management. Discover how passion, networking, and continuous learning can shape a successful career in eye care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Faran 01:12 Sarah's Journey to Optometry 05:59 Experiences in New Zealand 10:22 Returning to the UK and Starting a Practice 15:39 Diving into Professional Politics and Advocacy 16:58 Specializing in Dry Eye Treatment 21:21 Public Speaking and Lecturing Journey 23:30 The Importance of Networking in Professional Development 26:20 Embracing Opportunities for Learning and Growth 28:48 Building Relationships and Learning from Others 31:03 Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt 33:59 The Role of Conferences in Professional Development 36:31 The Intersection of Dry Eye Management and Contact Lenses 39:00 The Challenges of Defining Expertise in Dry Eye Treatment 41:29 The Importance of Proper Assessment in Dry Eye Clinics 43:56 Finding Your Passion and Embracing Opportunities 46:40 Final Thoughts on Career Development and Passion 48:19 0319 (1).mp4
Resources British Contact Lens Association (BCLA) - https://www.bcla.org.uk/ Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS) - https://www.tearfilm.org/ Specialized Ophthalmic Instruments (SOS) - https://sosophthalmic.co.uk/ | |||
| Episode 27 - Prisha Kotecha | 31 mai 2026 | 00:09:40 | |
Something a little different from Lights Too Bright. In this special POV-style episode, host Keyur takes to the hills for a 16-hill training walk ahead of the Three Peaks Challenge, joined by one of his oldest friends from university, Prisha Kotecha, an optometrist working at Boots Opticians. The format: one question at the top of each hill. Across the walk, Prisha talks about why she chose optometry, her pre-reg experience in Windsor, and the career wobbles that most clinicians will recognise. She also shares why communication, networking and teaching have been central to her development as a practitioner, and what running a children's play franchise alongside her clinical career taught her about connecting with people in the consulting room. Her advice for newly qualified optometrists? Stay calm, enjoy it, don't panic. New episodes of Lights Too Bright drop regularly on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Subscribe to the channel for the full conversations: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCadO2IUUeF0Tp3CpXHrLwCw #Optometry #Ophthalmology #EyeCare #EyeHealth #OptometryLife #OptometryPodcast #CPD #ClinicalOptometry #PatientCare #LightsTooBright #OptometryCareer #EyeCareProfessionals #UKOptometry #NewlyQualified | |||
| Episode 26 - Karmelo Modina | 17 mai 2026 | 00:49:41 | |
In this engaging interview, Karmelo Modina shares his diverse journey through optometry, from clinical practice and research to charity work and entrepreneurship. Discover insights on career flexibility, the importance of continuous learning, and how to find your passion within the profession. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:10 Career Overview and Out of the Box Optics 05:11 Journey to Becoming an Optometrist 08:39 Pre-Registration Experience and Influences 10:45 Transitioning from Boots to Academia 15:01 Research Challenges and Teaching Opportunities 18:48 Future Aspirations and PhD Considerations 23:38 The Struggles of Commuting 24:37 Transitioning to Locum Work 25:43 The Birth of Out of the Box Optics 27:09 Navigating Opportunities in Optometry 30:38 Experiences in Film and TV Optometry 34:11 The Journey of Out of the Box Optics 39:58 Becoming a Practice Owner 44:20 Charity Work and Volunteering in Greece 49:34 0319 (1).mp4 Resources Out of the Box Optics - https://outoftheboxoptics.com/ Optoversity Challenge - https://optoversity.com/ Light Without Borders Greece - https://lightwithoutborders.org/ Western Eye Hospital - https://www.imperial.nhs.uk/our-services/hospitals/western-eye-hospital guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karmelomodina/ | |||
| Episode 25 - Trae Trott | 03 mai 2026 | 00:41:45 | |
Join Keyur as he interviews optometrist Trey Trott about his unique journey from Bermuda to the UK, his experiences with scleral lenses, and insights into optometry practice across different countries. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Trey Trott and His Journey 20:13 Navigating Optometry Education and Career Paths 29:31 The Importance of Professional Development in Optometry 39:38 Reflections on Practice and Future Aspirations resources Guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trey-trott Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/treytrott | |||
| Episode 24 - Anu Laul | 29 mars 2026 | 00:54:17 | |
In this engaging conversation, Keyur and Anu discuss Anu's journey in optometry, from his initial aspirations to become an engineer to his eventual passion for eye care. They explore the evolution of optometry in the US, the increasing roles of optometrists in surgical procedures, and the importance of glaucoma care. Anu shares insights from his academic career and emphasizes the limitless opportunities within the field of optometry, encouraging students to keep an open mind and explore various paths. The discussion highlights the significance of networking and finding one's passion in the profession. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Chill Doctor 02:44 The Journey to Optometry 08:02 The Evolution of Optometry in the US 15:48 Training and Specialization in Optometry 23:17 The Value of Generalists vs. Specialists in Optometry 27:50 Networking and Career Beginnings 30:55 The Importance of Glaucoma in Optometry 36:55 Transitioning to Academia and Research 43:15 Diverse Opportunities in Optometry 47:28 Advice for Aspiring Optometrists 54:10 0319 (1).mp4 | |||
| Episode 23 - Phil Morgan | 16 mars 2026 | 00:42:37 | |
In this engaging interview, Professor Philip Morgan shares his 36-year journey in optometry, his research in contact lenses, and insights into academic and industry collaborations. Discover how curiosity, support, and strategic opportunities shape a successful career beyond clinical practice. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Philip Morgan 01:27 Philip's Academic Journey 03:42 The Influence of Personal Experience on Career Choice 06:12 Transitioning from Practice to Academia 14:12 The Diverse Opportunities in Optometry 18:09 The PhD Experience: Curiosity Over Intelligence 21:26 The Role of Research in Optometry Education 23:37 Industry Collaboration and Its Impact on Education 25:28 Teaching and Research: A Dual Role 28:41 The Science of Contact Lenses 32:56 Involvement in International Organizations 38:04 Advice for Aspiring Optometrists | |||
| Episode 22 - Peter Greedy | 02 mars 2026 | 00:40:05 | |
In this episode, Peter Greedy shares his diverse journey from optometry to coaching and entrepreneurship, highlighting lessons learned along the way. Discover insights on leadership, resilience, and how to stay passionate in your profession. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Peter Greedy 02:06 Peter's Journey into Optometry 07:24 Experiences at University and Cult Influence 09:23 Early Career and Family Life 12:13 Transitioning from Practice to Management 15:15 Exploring Leadership and Coaching 18:57 The Shoelace Venture 29:29 Reflections on Career Satisfaction and Advice 39:58 0319 (1).mp4 Resources Peter Greedy's Website - https://petergreedy.com Greeper Laces - https://greeper.com LinkedIn Profile of Peter Greedy - https://linkedin.com/in/petergreedy guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/petergreedy | |||
| Episode 21 - Isma Tahir | 16 févr. 2026 | 00:23:52 | |
In this episode, Keyur interviews Isma Tahir, a qualified optometrist and founder of Sight Relief (https://sight-relief.org/), a charity focused on providing eye care in rural Pakistan. Isma shares her journey from being an optometrist in the UK to starting a charity that addresses visual impairment in underserved communities. The conversation explores the challenges of starting a charity, the importance of integrating optometry into primary care, and the continuous learning that comes with working in diverse healthcare settings. Isma emphasizes the need for access to eye care and the potential for optometrists to make a significant impact globally. If you would like to donate or volunteer please check out https://sight-relief.org/ or media_sightrelief on Instagram. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Isma Tahir and Her Journey 02:22 Site Relief: Integrating Eye Care in Pakistan 07:17 Starting a Charity: Challenges and Triumphs 10:52 The Scope of Optometry in Pakistan 15:38 International Experience: Optometry Across Borders 20:07 Returning to Scotland: Hospital Work and Learning 23:45 0319 (1).mp4 | |||
| Episode 20 - Nicholas Rumney | 01 févr. 2026 | 01:02:18 | |
Nicholas Rumney shares his journey in optometry, from his early influences to his experiences abroad and the impact on his professional approach. He emphasizes the importance of community, education, and the need for optometrists to take a more active role in disease management and patient care. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the evolution of optometry, professional development, career highlights, and advice for young optometrists. It also delves into the importance of questioning authority, the impact of international experiences, and the significance of work-life balance in optometry. Chapters
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| Episode 19 - Seema Raunier | 19 janv. 2026 | 00:35:25 | |
In this episode of "Lights Too Bright," host Keyur reconnects with Seema Raunier, an optometrist with a diverse portfolio career. Seema shares her journey from initially pursuing a career in medicine, influenced by her father's expectations, to discovering her passion for optometry. Despite not initially wanting to be an optometrist, she found fulfillment in her work and has since built a varied career that includes roles in pediatrics, contact lens fittings, and community service. Seema emphasizes the importance of following one's passions and the value of networking and continuous learning in professional development. Seema also opens up about her personal struggles, including the challenges of balancing work and family life, especially after experiencing significant losses in her family. She discusses how these experiences led her to reevaluate her career and ultimately find joy in her work again. Through her involvement with the Local Optical Committee and the College of Optometrists, she has not only expanded her professional skills but also contributed to her community, highlighting the importance of pursuing interests outside of one's primary career. This conversation serves as an inspiring reminder of the potential for growth and fulfillment in one's professional journey, even amidst challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:03 NEWCHAPTER 02:34 Exploring a Portfolio Career 05:06 The Journey to Optometry 10:46 Navigating Personal Challenges 15:39 Finding New Opportunities 20:15 Building Confidence and Skills 24:54 The Importance of Networking 29:57 Passion Beyond Optometry 33:48 Final Thoughts and Advice 35:19 0319 (1).mp4 | |||
| Episode 18 - 2025 Highlights | 05 janv. 2026 | 00:18:39 | |
In this episode, Keyur's esteemed guests discuss the importance of curiosity, self-awareness, and authenticity in personal and professional growth. Emphasizing the need to start with oneself when seeking change and the value of learning from mistakes. They also highlight the significance of passion and keeping an open mind to opportunities. Takeaways Be humble, make an offer. There's no right or wrong path at each year. Start with yourself, with anything that you're doing. Not settling is a very important thing. One person may not be able to change the world. The biggest single purpose behind me is making a difference. We learn so much more through the errors that we make. The key to success is passion. Keep an open mind in what you do. If you're open to opportunity, just meeting these. | |||
| Episode 17 - Rambod Esfandiari | 24 nov. 2025 | 00:47:40 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur and Rambod Esfandiari discuss their long-standing friendship and the journey into the field of optometry. Rambod shares his unique path to becoming an optometrist, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship and the business side of the profession. They explore the significance of effective communication in patient care, the value of mentorship, and the various opportunities available within optometry. Rambod offers insightful advice for new graduates, encouraging them to keep an open mind and seek happiness in their careers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Friendship 10:02 The Importance of Business in Optometry 21:03 Communication Skills in Patient Care 30:09 The Journey into Mentorship and Speaking 42:43 Advice for New Graduates and Career Happiness 47:33 0319 (1).mp4 | |||
| Episode 16 - Piyus Tanna | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:35:41 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Piyus Tanna, a professional services manager at Mennicon and co-founder of Inspiring Success. They discuss Piyus's journey in optometry, his transition from practice to industry, and the importance of personal growth and professional development. Piyus shares insights on the well-being initiatives he is involved in, including the launch of a well-being app for eye care professionals. The conversation emphasizes the significance of making a difference in patients' lives and the value of mentorship and support in the optometry field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:04 Career Journey in Optometry 06:00 University Experience and Personal Growth 08:58 Pre-Registration and Early Career 11:53 Transitioning Roles and Learning Opportunities 14:53 Inspiring Success and Well-Being Initiatives 20:49 App Development and Collaboration 26:46 Balancing Multiple Roles and Responsibilities 32:44 Advice for Aspiring Optometrists | |||
| Episode 15 - Nicola Bennett | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:38:43 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Nicola Bennett, the Head of Global Education for Clinical Information at Keeler. Nicola shares her inspiring journey from a nursery nurse to a prominent figure in the optical industry. She discusses her passion for education, the importance of professional development, and the value of networking within the optometry field. Nicola emphasizes the significance of continuous learning and encourages others to pursue their interests and seek opportunities for growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nicola Bennett's Journey 02:42 Current Role and Responsibilities at Keeler 05:24 Early Career and Transition to Optometry 10:39 Joining Peepers Opticians and Initial Experiences 12:38 Development and Growth in the Optical Field 16:48 Passion for Learning and Professional Development 18:37 Journey of Self-Discovery and Support 21:35 Exploring Opportunities and Taking Risks 24:25 The Importance of Networking and Asking for Help 26:45 Passion for Education and Patient Care 30:34 Transitioning to Keeler and Embracing New Challenges 34:38 Advice for Aspiring Professionals in Eye Care | |||
| Episode 14 - Nick Black | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:42:29 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Nick Black, an experienced dispensing/contact lens optician and director at BBR Optometry. They discuss Nick's journey from New Zealand to the UK, his various roles in optometry, and the importance of teamwork and professional development in the field. Nick shares insights on transitioning to independent practice, the significance of expanding skills, and balancing clinical work with business viability. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring optometrists, emphasizing the importance of investing in personal development. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:09 Nick Black's Role and Responsibilities in Optometry 04:52 Nick's Journey from New Zealand to Optometry 12:30 Transitioning to Independent Practice 18:26 The Importance of Teamwork in Optometry 26:12 Expanding Skills: Low Vision and Contact Lenses 32:02 Becoming a Partner at BBR Optometry 39:54 Life-Changing Impact of Optometry 41:29 Advice for Colleagues in the Profession | |||
| Episode 13 - Michelle Beach | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:38:22 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Michelle Beach, an accomplished optometrist with a rich background in sports vision. They discuss Michelle's journey from her idyllic childhood in Norfolk to her current role at Park Vision in Nottingham. Michelle shares her experiences in optometry, including her pre-registration year, the challenges of establishing her practice, and her passion for the profession. The conversation highlights the importance of passion in optometry, the evolution of the field, and the value of continuous learning through conferences and collaboration with peers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Michelle Beach and Her Journey 03:01 Early Life and Initial Aspirations 10:32 Transition from Sports to Optometry 12:26 Pre-Registration Experience and Hospital Work 19:05 Establishing Park Vision and Overcoming Challenges 26:14 The Evolution of Optometry and Current Trends 35:18 Advice for Aspiring Optometrists | |||
| Episode 12 - Sonia Trave-Huarte | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:31:47 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright Pod, Dr. Sonia Trave Huarte shares her journey in optometry, focusing on dry eye research and her experiences in academia. She discusses her early inspirations, the impact of the Erasmus Plus program on her career, and the transition from working with children to specializing in ocular surface disease. Dr. Huarte also provides insights into the PhD process, the balance between research and clinical practice, and emphasizes the importance of curiosity in driving one's career forward. | |||
| Episode 11 - Hans Sunnassee | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:34:08 | |
In this episode, Keyur interviews Hans Sunnassee, a global business development manager at Menicon, who shares his journey from a non-healthcare background to a significant role in the ophthalmic industry. Hans discusses his experiences in sales, the importance of community in optics, and the impact of his work on patient care. He emphasizes the value of continuous learning, collaboration, and being a nice person in the industry. The conversation also touches on career progression, opportunities in healthcare, and advice for aspiring professionals. | |||
| Episode 10 - Francesca Marchetti | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:36:37 | |
In this engaging conversation, Francesca Marchetti shares her journey as a self-employed independent optometrist, discussing her professional identity, the importance of networking, and the impact of COVID-19 on her practice. She emphasizes the significance of building rapport with patients and reflects on the pros and cons of self-employment in optometry. Francesca also offers valuable advice for new graduates and shares her aspirations for the future as she contemplates retirement. | |||
| Episode 9 - Hamza Mussa | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:34:16 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur and Hamza Mussa discuss Hamza's journey in optometry, his rise on social media as 'The Crazy Optom', and the importance of mentorship and community in the profession. They explore the challenges and opportunities within optometry, emphasizing the need for new graduates to seek diverse experiences and not be afraid to pursue their passions. Hamza shares insights on how social media can bridge gaps in learning and foster connections among professionals. | |||
| Episode 8 - Gurpreet Chana | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:34:36 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Gurpreet Chana, an optometrist with a unique career journey. They discuss Gurpreet's background, cultural influences on career choices, and the importance of mentorship and networking in the optometry field. The conversation also touches on generational differences in the profession and concludes with valuable advice for new graduates. | |||
| Episode 7 - Amit Sharma | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:39:50 | |
In this conversation, Keyur and Amit Sharma discuss Amit's journey in the field of optometry, his transition from clinical practice to business ownership, and the challenges and rewards of managing multiple practices. They explore the importance of personal values, emotional intelligence, and the significance of relationships in professional growth. Amit shares insights on the differences between franchises and joint ventures, and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the healthcare sector. | |||
| Episode 6 - Jonathon Bench | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:32:50 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Jonathan Bench, who shares his diverse journey in the field of optometry. From his early aspirations of becoming an airline pilot to his current role as Director of Professional Education International, Jonathan discusses the various experiences that shaped his career. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes, the value of networking, and the significance of being true to oneself. The conversation also touches on the pros and cons of locuming and the unique dynamics of the optometry profession across different countries. | |||
| Episode 5 - Stuart Wellings | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:38:28 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Keyur interviews Stuart Wellings, of EyeCare Education. They discuss Stuart's diverse career journey, starting from IT to becoming a key player in CPD events and eye care education. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and continuous learning in the optometry field. Stuart shares insights on organizing successful events like Eyecare Glasgow and emphasizes the need for a stronger conference culture in the industry. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring professionals and details about upcoming events. | |||
| Episode 4 - Eddie Pigott | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:36:25 | |
In this episode, Eddie Pigott shares his journey from being an optometrist to running a marketing business. He discusses the challenges of networking in a new city, the decision-making process behind his career transitions, and the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone. Eddie reflects on his experiences in professional services at Alcon and offers valuable advice for those considering a career change or seeking personal development. | |||
| Episode 3 - Purvi Tompson | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:30:30 | |
In this episode of the Lights Too Bright podcast, Purvi Thompson shares her journey in optometry, discussing her current role as head of optometry at OCL Vision, the importance of refraction in patient care, and her experiences transitioning from high street optometry to clinical settings. She emphasizes the value of networking and seizing opportunities, encouraging aspiring optometrists to believe in themselves and embrace challenges. Purvi also highlights the growth of OCL Vision and the need to elevate the profession of optometry. | |||
| Episode 2 - Karen Walsh | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:34:33 | |
In this conversation, Keyur and Karen Walsh explore Karen's extensive career journey in optometry, from her early life in Suffolk to her current role in Canada. They discuss her experiences in clinical practice, the transition to industry, and the impact of COVID-19 on research. Karen shares valuable insights on the importance of networking, being open to opportunities, and following one's passion in professional development. | |||
| Episode 1 - Sheena Tanna-Shah | 10 nov. 2025 | 00:28:04 | |
My first proper guest, Sheena Tanna-Shah. In this episode of the Lights too Bright, Keyur interviews Sheena Tanna-Shah, an optometrist who shares her journey from aspiring psychologist to a successful optometrist and wellbeing coach. Sheena discusses her struggles with mental health, the importance of mindset, and how she found purpose in her profession. She also highlights the cultural aspects of mental health, her experiences in writing books, and the significance of self-acceptance. The conversation emphasizes the need for wellbeing in the optometry profession and the importance of balancing multiple passions. | |||
| Episode 0 - Brian Tompkins | 04 nov. 2025 | 00:25:31 | |
If I am going to start with someone, has to be one of the most enthusiastic optometrists I have the pleasure of knowing. Here is 30mins of wisdom from the one and only Mr Brian Tompkins | |||