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Episode 46: Leading for Success: Practical Strategies to Build Stronger Teams in Independent Optometry with Dr Steve Vargo


Strong teams don't just happen by accident. They're built through better leadership, a strong team culture, and systems that help your practice grow without burning you out. 


In this episode, Michael Nasser is joined by Dr Steve Vargo, optometrist, practice management consultant, author, and host of the Eye Own a Business podcast, to unpack one of the biggest (and most challenging) issues facing independent practices today: leadership and team management.


From understanding the difference between leadership and management, to hiring the right practice manager, reducing staff turnover, and building a culture people actually want to be part of, this conversation goes beyond theory and dives into what truly works inside real practices.


If you've ever felt overwhelmed managing staff, unsure how to delegate, or frustrated by a lack of growth despite working harder than ever, this episode is for you.


About the Guest:

Steve Vargo, OD, MBA, is the Optometric Practice Management Consultant for IDOC. Since 2014, he has conducted more than 3,000 consultations and coaching sessions with independent optometry practices nationwide, helping doctors strengthen leadership, improve team performance, and drive practice growth. A frequent industry speaker and author, Dr Vargo writes the "CEO Challenge" column for Optometric Management, hosts the Eye Own a Business podcast, and has authored four books on leadership, staff management, and patient communication. 


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



Key Topics with Timestamps:


1:01 - Steve Vargo's journey into practice management

4:50 - Why leadership is the missing link in many practices

7:25 - Leadership vs. management

9:42 - Why do practice owners struggle in leadership

10:11 - When should the owner delegate responsibilities

13:46 - Best way to identify the right practice manager

16:35 - Hiring within vs. outside

18:37 - Interview questions for leadership roles

21:35 - The first 60 days of a new manager

23:52 - Developing leaders in your existing team

27:07 - The five pillars of leadership

30:17 - Holding people accountable without confrontation

32:59 - Effective communication in the practice

36:59 - Tips for manager and team collaboration

38:49 - Why staffing is the number 1 challenge of business owners

40:54 - Retention comes down to leadership

42:53 - Empowering staff to be part of the solution

44:43 - One step to become a better leader



Mentioned Resources:


Episode Suggestions: 


Connect with Michael Nasser:


Connect with Steve Vargo:



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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