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Episode 43: Beyond the Brochure: Raising Optical Standards Through Lens Knowledge with Grant Hannaford




What if the biggest breakthroughs in patient outcomes aren't found in new lens technologies…but in how deeply you understand the ones you already use?

 

In this episode, we peel back the layers of lens design as Michael Nasser sits down with Dr Grant Hannaford, Doctor of Ophthalmic Science and co-founder of the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics (AAOO), to unpack the often misunderstood world of lens philosophy and the growing knowledge gap between lens engineers and practitioners.

 

It's technical… but in the very best way.

 

Dr Grant takes us through his journey from dispensing and practice ownership to building one of Australia's leading platforms for advanced optical education. He reveals how returning to first principles is helping practitioners make smarter prescribing decisions, communicate with more confidence, and ultimately deliver better visual outcomes for their patients.

 

This episode goes far beyond the brochure, the buzzwords, and the marketing claims we've all heard before. If you've ever wanted to deepen your optical knowledge, revisit the "why" behind your prescribing, or strengthen your confidence in lens conversations, this is a must-listen.

 

About the Guest:

 

Dr Grant Hannaford is a clinical practitioner and director of ophthalmic optics research with expertise in lens design, wavefront analysis, and biometric modelling. His work integrates advanced optical physics with clinical practice to improve visual performance, myopia control strategies, and spectacle lens accuracy. He leads the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics and contributes to international optometry education through research, course development, and professional collaboration. His projects span clinical research, optical engineering, and applied vision science.

 

The Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics provides focused short courses that translate complex optical science into practical, clinically relevant skills for practising optometrists and dispensers. Its practice mentorship program supports clinicians in applying these principles in real settings, enhancing clinical decision-making, communication, and patient outcomes.


All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at


Key Topics with Timestamps:

1:16 - Dr Grant's entry to the eye care field: From musician to discovering optics

3:47 - Studying optics and hitting the educational ceiling

6:12 - The birth of the Academy of Advanced Ophthalmic Optics (AAOO) and its course structure

11:55 - Lens designs and first principle concept

14:28 - The biggest knowledge gap in the optical industry

17:20 - Lack of technical knowledge in the delivery of training

20:10 - Translation of information to patients

24:58 - Reengaging with the fundamentals of lens knowledge

28:24 - The value of first-principle learning: Inside AAOO course structure

33:11 - AHA moment: Radius, Power & What you give up

34:57 - Why lens design is more important than the brand

38:36 - Understanding lens design in theory and real-world practice

44:19 - How to assess marketing ploy vs. technical-based knowledge in lens design

47:38 - The McDonald's analogy

52:49 - The "knife-edge" intermediate zone in progressive

56:25 - Habitual wear context

58:45 -  How to match lens design to patient needs

1:03:17 - Lens recommendation based on limited portfolio

1:06:04 - Lab remake rates and warranties

1:11:20  - Physics has rules: Don't promise what isn't possible

1:13:53 - One shift that Dr Grant wants to see in the eye care space

 

Mentioned Resources:

 

Episode Suggestions:

 

Connect with Michael Nasser:


Connect with Dr Grant Hannaford:



Learn More About Us:

 

 

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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