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Episode 59: When Opportunity Moves, Move With It with Eliza Whiteley

Aug 11
2 min read


What would you do if you had just 48 hours to decide whether to buy an optometry practice?


In this episode, we are joined by Eliza Whiteley, Owner and Optometrist at Whiteley Optometry, to unpack the unexpected opportunity that led her to independent practice. From taking a pay cut to learn alongside an ophthalmologist, to navigating a last-minute practice opportunity, supplier roadblocks, self-doubt and the realities of building a regional practice.


During the conversation, Eliza also shares what it takes to build a strong team culture, why regional optometry can offer unique clinical opportunities, and how she learned to keep moving when the path ahead isn't always clear. 


If you're a student, early-career optometrist or aspiring practice owner, listen in for an honest look at the decisions, challenges and opportunities that can shape a career in independent eye care.


About the Guests:


Eliza Whiteley is the owner and principal optometrist of Whiteley Optometry in Dubbo. She holds a Master of Optometry with Ocular Therapeutic Endorsement from Deakin University and an Advanced Certificate in Children’s Vision. After working with ophthalmologists, she has a strong clinical focus on preventative eye health and management of chronic eye conditions. In 2024 she established Whiteley Optometry to deliver personalised, evidence-based care to the region. Eliza is also committed to supporting future regional clinicians through teaching at Deakin University and the University of Sydney’s School of Rural Health. She serves as Junior Vice-President of the Dubbo Chamber of Commerce.


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


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Key Topics with Timestamps:

3:35 - Eliza Whiteley’s background before becoming a business owner

4:27 - The decision to choose optometry as a career

10:07 - Leaving home, university life, and finding confidence

14:49 - The first job that taught Eliza what really matters

18:56 - Sidestep journey to learn clinical optometry

26:44 - The LinkedIn message that changed everything

30:33 - Buying a practice within 48 hours

34:57 - Seeking opportunities and capitalising on it

41:07 - Biggest challenge in reinvigorating the business

44:54 - The value of having a business coach

48:21 - Leading through personal adversity

54:17 - Navigating self-doubt as a business owner

59:10 - Why regional optometry creates incredible opportunities

1:02:53 - Highlighting the potential of each team member

1:05:53 - One piece of advice from Eliza


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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