Scaling and Freedom: When, Why, and How to Add an Associate Optometrist with Erich Mattei

Questions? Thoughts? Send a Text to The Optometry Money Podcast! We'll answer your question on the show.

In this episode of The Optometry Money Podcast, Evon Mendrin, CFP®, hosts Erich Mattei of Akrinos to dive deep into a pivotal question for many private practice optometry owners: when, why, and how should you hire an associate optometrist?

Together, Evon and Erich discuss:

• The key motivations behind hiring an associate doctor – from scaling your practice for growth to creating more personal freedom.
• The role of associates in succession planning and de-risking your practice’s future.
• Critical financial and operational indicators that signal it may be time to hire.
• How to structure compensation plans that attract and retain top talent while aligning with your practice’s financial health.
• Best practices for onboarding and mentoring your associate for success.
• And more!

Whether you’re approaching capacity constraints or seeking a better work-life balance, this episode will help you make more informed decisions about hiring and transitioning to an associate OD.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

📄 Erich Mattei’s articles on public demand for eye care and the important role of private practice optometry  (Review of Optometric Business): Part 1 | Part 2
🌐 Learn more about Erich Mattei and Akrinos: Visit Akrinos
📚 Explore the Optometry Wealth Advisors Education Hub for financial resources and tools: Visit Here
📆 Connect with Evon for a no-pressure financial planning consultation: Schedule Here

Connect with Us:

• Follow Evon on LinkedIn
• Subscribe to the Eyes on the Money newsletter for weekly financial tips and insights tailored for optometrists: Sign Up Here

Do You Have Insights to Share?
If you’ve gone through the process of hiring an associate or have questions about the decision, we’d love to hear from you! Send us a message at podcast@optometrywealth.com.

Thank You for Listening!
We appreciate your time and attention. If you enjoy the podcast, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more optometrists like you!

The Optometry Money Podcast is dedicated to helping optometrists make better decisions around their money, careers, and practices. The show is hosted by Evon Mendrin, CFP®, CSLP®, owner of Optometry Wealth Advisors, a financial planning firm just for optometrists nationwide.