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Episode 33: From Optometrist to Owner Building Confidence and Growing Independently with Amanda Duffy


What does it really take to go from being a new optometrist to owning two thriving independent practices before 30? In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Amanda Duffy, an optometrist and co‑owner of two practices, to talk about her journey as an eye care professional, her mindset, and the steps she took to confidently step into ownership.


From building patient-first businesses to managing a supportive team and navigating the challenges of ownership with her husband James, Amanda candidly shares what it really takes to create a fulfilling and flexible career in optometry. Whether you’re an optometry grad student, someone curious about independent practice, or dreaming of ownership someday, Amanda’s story is packed with practical wisdom, heartfelt honesty, and empowering takeaways for you!


Amanda Duffy is the Optometrist Director of Eyecare Plus Belmont & Eyecare Plus Edgeworth. She graduated with a Master of Clinical Optometry with Excellence from the University of New South Wales in 2020. She was awarded the university award ‘Excellence in Patient Management’ in 2021 and has been practising in the Newcastle region ever since. Amanda is therapeutically endorsed, allowing her to prescribe medications for anterior eye diseases, infections, and injuries. She works together with ophthalmologists to co-manage glaucoma and other diseases.


Key Topics with Timestamps:

1:45 - Amanda Duffy’s background and why she chose optometry

3:50 - How she evolved from clinician to business owner without early pressure

6:25 - What sets independent practices apart from corporate clinics

8:21 - Activities in building a strong team culture and creating a workplace that feels like family

13:13 - The emotional and logistical hurdles of buying her first practice

17:32 - Working with a Partner: Balancing responsibilities and communication with her husband

19:59 - The importance of setting a clear vision and mission for the practice

22:32 - Advice for new grads and young optometrists exploring ownership

24:54 - Why some optometrists shift from corporate to independent

30:17 - The power of mindset in entrepreneurship: Reframing fear and embracing discomfort

34:09 - Finding support as a practice owner and not losing sight of lifestyle goals

38:38 - What ownership has given Amanda personally and professionally

41:02 - First step tips: How to get started with exploring ownership

42:47- The future of independent optometry: Amanda’s hopes and why there’s room for more


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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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