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Episode 45: Building Community, Crafting Care: Northam Optical's Journey to Independent Practice of the Year 2025 with Allyson Freind


In this episode, we are joined by Allyson Freind, optical dispenser, owner of Northam Optical and recipient of Independent Practice of the Year 2025, to explore how a loyal customer base, deep community connection, and consistent, high-quality care can outperform even the biggest city-based advantages.


From accidentally stepping into optics as a receptionist to becoming a trusted healthcare provider, community leader, and industry advocate, Allyson's journey shows that regional practices can thrive when they are built on trust, education, and genuine care for the people they serve.


About the Guest:


Allyson has been part of the optical industry since 1998, bringing over two decades of experience in optical dispensing and small-business management. She is a board member of Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA) and has accompanied ODA on its outreach program to Fiji multiple times. After earning her Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing in 2013, that same year, she ventured into small business ownership, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to independent optometry.


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


Key Topics with Timestamps:

1:46 - Allyson's background and her unexpected career in optics

5:11 - From employee to business owner

6:04 - What makes running a rural practice unique compared to bigger cities

6:56 - What sets an award-winning practice apart

8:56 - Business milestone for Northam Optical

11:12 - Building real community connections

13:27 - Criteria for brand alignment and setting boundaries as a business owner

17:36 - Education and industry involvement

20:38 - Giving back to the community through the Fiji outreach program

23:39 - The value of training and education for optical dispensers

24:54 - Guiding principles that operate Northam Optical

26:11 - What makes the biggest difference in patient experience

27:52 - Making smart business decisions: Introducing a new specialisation to patients

30:22 - Business owner routine to be working on the business, not just in it

32:51 - Allyson's advice to independent practice owners


Mentioned Resources:

 

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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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