Best IDOC Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 211 - Curriculum Opt-Outs and Trump's K-12 AI Plan 1:00:00

4d ago1:00:00

1:00:00

Join us in this episode as Josh, Mark, and special guest K12TechPro's Jason Rooks dive into two compelling stories surrounding curriculum opt-outs and the complex position schools find themselves in. They explore a recent Supreme Court case impacting parental rights in curriculum choices and how this trend affects K-12 institutions nationwide. The …

1
Why Patients Say No—And How to Help Them Say Yes 34:59

7d ago34:59

34:59

In this special episode of Eye Own a Business, I’m sharing three powerful conversations from a previous podcast I hosted, Can I Ask You One Question? Each segment features a bestselling author exploring a common theme: how to influence human behavior in ways that lead to better outcomes—for your patients and your practice. You'll hear from Dr. Step…

1
Episode 210 - Tariffs, Special Requests, and Food! 52:33

11d ago52:33

52:33

In this episode, we dive into the current issues surrounding technology tariffs and their impact on K-12 education. We explore how these tariffs affect school budgets and procurement processes, providing insights into recent changes and what schools should anticipate moving forward. A segment is dedicated to addressing the complex topic of managing…

1
“How Can I Afford to Hire?” Turning Payroll Anxiety into Practice Growth 39:24

14d ago39:24

39:24

In this episode, Steve Vargo interviews Nathan Hayes, discussing the challenges and strategies surrounding payroll and hiring in optometry practices. They explore the complexities of hiring decisions, balancing fear and logic, and the importance of having the right team members to drive growth. They also touch on practical advice for managing staff…

1
Episode 209 - Dept of Ed Closure & K12 Technology 47:50

18d ago47:50

47:50

Episode 209 covers a range of topics, including a recap of the PowerSchool interview, news on a UC Irvine study about AI usage among teens, potential cuts to K12 cybersecurity funding, and a humorous moment involving the Secretary of Education (A1!). The main focus is on exploring the potential impacts of the Department of Education's closure on K1…

1
Special Episode: PowerSchool CISO, Mishka McCowan 42:20

21d ago42:20

42:20

Join Josh, Chris, and Mark as they host an exclusive interview with Mishka, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of PowerSchool, following a significant cyber incident that changed the landscape of K-12 cyber-security. Discover the human side of crisis management, starting with Mishka’s initial reaction to the attack and learn about the ra…

1
How to Make Your Associate OD a Revenue Driver 21:54

21d ago21:54

21:54

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses a common challenge faced by practice owners: how to increase revenue production from associate ODs. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication in setting expectations, tracking performance metrics, and having productive review meetings. Dr. Vargo highlights the need for mentorship, focusing on pat…

1
Episode 208 - Live from CoSN 2025! 56:54

25d ago56:54

56:54

We travel to the Emerald City this week to hang out with the great folks at CoSN! This podcast episode, recorded live at the CoSN conference in Seattle, offers interviews with participants, organizers, and presenters. Topics centered around the human aspect of AI, cybersecurity, and some amazing innovations from school districts around the county! …

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Start Over, Start Fresh: How One OD Designed a Practice That Aligns with Her Life 42:22

28d ago42:22

42:22

In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Stewart returns to discuss her remarkable journey back into private practice after selling her first practice. Reflecting on her initial decision to step away and the motivations behind her return, Dr. Stewart shares insights into what she learned about patient care and business operations. The conversation explores th…

1
Episode 207 - The Supreme Court Discusses E-Rate! 1:06:16

1M ago1:06:16

1:06:16

The big court case has finally arrived! We break down the oral arguments that were presented this week to the Supreme Court that will ultimately determine the fate of E-Rate. Will we see this essential program carry on or will the lower court's ruling strike down this key program? We discuss the arguments for and against with clips from the hearing…

1
The Future of Optometry: What the Next Generation of ODs Really Want 49:13

1M ago49:13

49:13

The future of optometry is evolving, and today’s new grads have different expectations, career goals, and challenges than ever before. In this episode, I sit down with Howard Purcell, OD, FAAO, President and CEO of New England College of Optometry, to discuss what the next generation of optometrists really wants—from practicing to the full extent o…

1
Episode 206 - Terry Loftus, San Diego CIO & MS-ISAC Board Chair 51:56

1M ago51:56

51:56

In this week's episode, Chris and Mark delve into a recent massive data breach that has had significant repercussions for hundreds of thousands of educators in Pennsylvania. They explore the startling details of the breach, discussing its implications and the timeline of the response. The episode features an interview with Terry Loftus, the CIO of …

1
The Power of Influence: How Communication Transforms Optical Sales 58:12

1M ago58:12

58:12

In this episode, Kayla Ashley, founder of Spexy, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of influential communication and how simple behavioral adjustments can notably improve patient trust and practice outcomes. Ashley shares actionable insights into reducing patient walkouts, optimizing team interactions, and enhancing the overall patient exp…

1
Episode 205 - Death by Fax, and Cuts to MS-ISAC Funding 51:50

2M ago51:50

51:50

In this episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast, hosts Josh, Chris, and Mark delve into the recent challenges facing K-12 technology in light of new tariffs and significant budget cuts. They discuss the potential impact of these economic and political changes on school services, with a specific focus on the technology and cybersecurity landscapes. A k…

1
Episode 204 - MidwestTechTalk Security Symposium 2025 Recap & SaferWatch 30:15

2M ago30:15

30:15

Join Chris and Mark as they hit the highlights of the recently concluded MidwestTechTalk Security Symposium. The conference tackled crucial topics surrounding incident response planning and cybersecurity preparedness in K-12 schools. Then, the show wraps up with insights from an informative interview with SaferWatch. -------------------- SaferWatch…

1
Beyond the Exam Room: Why Optometrists Must Think Like CEOs 32:17

2M ago32:17

32:17

At The Connection 2025, Dr. Todd Cohan discusses the importance of integrating a business mindset into optometry practices. He shares insights on balancing patient care with effective business management, highlighting three pillars of his practice: primary eye care, myopia management, and dry eye treatment. Dr. Cohan emphasizes the need for entrepr…

1
Optimizing Optometry Marketing: Insights from Jeremy Bono 34:13

2M ago34:13

34:13

In this episode, Jeremy Bono, a new addition to the IDOC team, delves into his experience in the eye care space, specifically focusing on marketing for optometrists. He emphasizes the importance of defining personal brand values and mission, leveraging SEO, and using AI for competitive analysis and strategy refinement. Throughout the conversation, …

1
Episode 203 - Beeper Bans, Google MFA Changes, and District Liability 44:05

2M ago44:05

44:05

Tune in to hear insights on how some states are ramping up cell phone bans in schools and the implications this has for students and staff alike, including the extension to smartwatches, beepers, and pagers! The guys also delve into a pivotal Supreme Court case regarding the E-rate program, unpacking the ramifications of the recent ruling that clas…

1
Episode 202 - Navigating Tariffs, Chrome's New AI Security, and E-Rate Threats 49:25

2M ago49:25

49:25

In this week's episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast, the team dives into some pressing issues. We start with a discussion on how tariffs might affect project pricing for the coming year, exploring potential impacts on schools' budgets and strategies they might employ to mitigate these effects. The conversation then shifts to Google's new Chrome sec…

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The CLEAR Sales Model: A Simple Approach to Selling Eyewear 22:46

2M ago22:46

22:46

In this podcast episode, we tackle the often uncomfortable topic of 'selling' in the eye care profession. Despite being trained primarily as clinicians, optometrists and opticians can greatly benefit from understanding effective sales techniques. Host Steve Vargo introduces the CLEAR Sales Model - a simple, repeatable system that helps guide patien…

1
Episode 201 - Unveiling the Shadowy World of Breach Coaches 56:30

2M ago56:30

56:30

Join us in episode 201, as we dive into the intricate world of cybersecurity breach coaches. We start with a deep analysis of the latest cybersecurity reports from Clever and CoSN, highlighting critical vulnerabilities and the evolving landscape of K12 cybersecurity challenges. In an exclusive interview, journalist Mark Keierleber from The 74 explo…

1
Stop Jonesin’…measure your success against your own purpose, not someone else’s 49:46

3M ago49:46

49:46

In this episode originally aired on the 20/20 Money podcast, certified financial planner Adam Cmejla and Dr. Steve Vargo discuss the importance of staying true to one's vision and passion in practice ownership. The conversation highlights common pitfalls such as the temptation to mimic other successful practices and urges optometrists to avoid unne…

1
Episode 200 - Special Guests, Musical Acts, and Celebrity Drop-Ins... 1:12:43

3M ago1:12:43

1:12:43

The 200th episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast was packed with special guests, laughs, and big announcements. Musician Colt Ball kicked things off with a live performance, and David Wren from NTP discussed K12TechPro's cybersecurity deals for schools. Tom Ryan shared insights on AI, while Chris Illingworth from Fortinet talked about security soluti…

1
The Admin Day Trap: How to Reclaim Your Time and Grow Your Practice 50:45

3M ago50:45

50:45

Are you stuck in the “Admin Day” mindset, drowning in tasks that keep you from growing your practice? In this episode, Steve and guest Adam Cmejla challenge the way optometry practice owners think about time management, delegation, and productivity. They explore why so many ODs struggle to let go of certain tasks, how opportunity cost affects pract…

1
Episode 199 - It's a Disaster 31:49

3M ago31:49

31:49

We did this episode for about 45 minutes and realized we didn't hit record. It happens. This is a redo. It's a disaster. Really. Next week is a SPECIAL episode as we hit 200. Get ready for that. We promise next week will be better. In the meanwhile, we discuss: Who pays for Chromebook repairs? What will chip tariffs do to 25-26 purchases? Cybersqua…

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Embracing and Implementing Change in Your Practice 1:01:59

3M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, Steve welcomes practice management experts Sharon Carter and Lynn Lawrence to discuss their keynote presentation, How to Embrace Change and Implement It, which will be delivered at the upcoming IDOC Connection conference in February. The conversation explores why change is challenging in optometry practices, h…

1
Episode 198 - Top 10 Changes to K12 Cyber Security We'd Like to See 1:00:16

3M ago1:00:16

1:00:16

In this lively episode of the K12 Tech Talk Podcast, a significant portion of the discussion focuses on recent updates regarding the PowerSchool data breach. The hosts shed light on the critical changes necessary for enhancing cybersecurity in school districts, including expanding MFA, moving away from outdated FTP to modern solutions, and embracin…

1
The Future is Now: AI Applications in Optometry You Can Use Today 36:35

3M ago36:35

36:35

In this episode, Steve sits down with Ankit Patel to discuss the integration of AI in his optometry practice. They explore various applications of AI, from enhancing hiring processes and staff training to streamlining operations and creating SOPs. Ankit shares practical advice on leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude, highlights the current c…

1
Episode 197 - Updates on PowerSchool and Notification Requirements 51:06

3M ago51:06

51:06

In this episode of the K12 Tech Talk Podcast, the team dives into the recent PowerSchool breach. Mark, who was recently featured on Canadian national news (Eh!), shares updates and insights into the breach's technical aspects, along with a breakdown on an article he published on K12TechPro. The discussion also highlights the roles and responsibilit…

1
But I Don’t Sell - Ethical Strategies for Boosting Sales in Eyecare 17:35

3M ago17:35

17:35

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo addresses the topic of selling within the eyecare industry. He emphasizes the need to reconceptualize selling not as a pushy tactic, but as an extension of patient care. Drawing from his book, 'But I Don’t Sell,' Dr. Vargo discusses the importance of understanding patient needs, emotional drivers behind decision-mak…

1
Episode 196 - Sharing Passwords? You're Fired! 49:42

4M ago49:42

49:42

In this episode, we explore humorous/serious use of AI joke writing (PowerSchool jokes), we have a discussion on cell phone bans being implemented across various school districts this new year, touching on one policy that involves fines. The main focus, however, is a captivating story where a teacher was terminated for allegedly sharing her passwor…

1
PowerSchool Cybersecurity Breach: What You Need to Know 36:49

4M ago36:49

36:49

This special episode of the K12 Tech Talk Podcast dissects the recent cybersecurity incident involving PowerSchool, a major provider of Student Information Systems (SIS) in the United States. Hosts Josh, Chris, and Mark discuss the details of the breach that saw PowerSchool send notifications to its customers about the possibility of sensitive data…

1
Starting Small, Growing Big: Dr. Davison’s Blueprint for Dry Eye Success 32:57

4M ago32:57

32:57

In this insightful episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Janelle Davison, a leader in dry eye therapy and owner of Brilliant Eyes Vision Center and Premier Dry Eye Spa. Dr. Davison offers advice for ODs looking to grow their dry eye services, starting with simple steps and gradually advancing their offerings. The episode underscores the significa…

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A Ransomware Interview with Denzel (Episode 31 Re-release) 49:42

4M ago49:42

49:42

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year from Josh, Chris, and Mark! This is a re-release of Episode 31. It is an interview with Denzel. Denzel is the Tech Director at a school that was hit with ransomware. He shares details of the attack, from waking up and realizing over his morning coffee that they had major issues, to the day he real…

1
Episode 195 - Chimp Crazy, 2024 Recap, & 2025 Predictions 48:03

4M ago48:03

48:03

On this episode of the K12 Tech Talk podcast, we talk about AI misuse in schools, we recap 2024's hot topics, and we spend time discussing our predictions for 2025. Oh, and we talk about Chimp Crazy and Mark's recent interactions with Tonia Haddix on TikTok. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year - We're ready for break! https://www.cisa.gov/sites/defa…

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Staff Conflict is Inevitable: How to Embrace it and Manage it Effectively 12:45

4M ago12:45

12:45

In this episode of Eye Own a Business, host Steve Vargo dives into the often-dreaded topic of workplace conflict, reframing it as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat to harmony. Drawing from personal experiences, leadership workshops, and compelling research, Steve explains why conflict is a natural and even beneficial part of team dynam…

1
Episode 194 - How to Move from Lawless to Lawful Asset Management 47:46

5M ago47:46

47:46

This week we take a listener email and dive into managing district assets and how to wrangle the budget. Should schools supply headphones to all students? Should the tech dept have a headphones budget? Should parents pay for broken headphones? Josh, Chris, and Mark discuss the tech dept's responsibility with headphones (and other consumables) at le…

1
Could Your Patient’s Headache Journey End with You? 44:11

5M ago44:11

44:11

In this episode, Dr. Vargo converses with Dr. Amanda Nanasy, an expert in neuro-optometric rehab in South Florida. They delve into the potential for optometrists to treat patients with headaches more effectively, challenging common assumptions and exploring practice-building opportunities. Dr. Nanasy shares her methods for diagnosing and treating h…

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Episode 193 - Will Google Really Sell Off Its Chrome Browser? 39:55

5M ago39:55

39:55

Join Josh, Chris, and Mark for a lively discussion on the future of ChromeOS and Android in the K-12 landscape. We kick things off with Josh's latest tech frustrations (proxy problems, anyone?) before diving into some recent headlines, including a fascinating AI case in Massachusetts and a timely warning from the FBI about SMS messaging. But the ma…

1
Why One-on-One Meetings Are the Key to Thriving Teams 26:44

5M ago26:44

26:44

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo discusses the transformative power of one-on-one meetings with Dr. Steven Rogelberg. Dr. Rogelberg, an organizational psychologist and author of acclaimed books on meetings, explains how effective one-on-one meetings can improve team culture, boost productivity, and enhance employee retention. They dive into why bad…

1
Episode 192 - New Google License Structure and an IXL Lawsuit 49:51

5M ago49:51

49:51

In this episode Chris does a deep dive on the new Google Workspace license structure. Mark has an extended News section with stories about an IXL lawsuit, Goolge's anti-trust fallout, Docusign impersonation attacks, and more. -Linda McMahon's background as Trump's pick for education secretary -Significant surge in DocuSign impersonation attacks: ha…

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Episode 191 - Interview with Tony Sager 1:10:53

6M ago1:10:53

1:10:53

Chris, Josh, and Mark discuss an update on the cybersecurity pilot, an FCC court case, and the future of E-Rate. Most of the episode is an interview with Tony Sager. Tony is a Senior VP & Chief Evangelist for the Center for Internet Security (CIS). FCC Cybersecurity Pilot Receives $3.7B in Funding Requests Supreme Court Weighs High-Stakes Fraud Iss…

1
Precise and Personalized: Customizing Patient Care with New Technology 42:48

6M ago42:48

42:48

In this episode, industry experts Dr. Jessilin Quint and Dr. Janelle Davison share their insights on integrating new technologies in optometry practices. They discuss the impact of innovation on patient care, particularly through the lens of dry eye treatments and the new Precision7 contact lenses. The conversation covers strategies for convincing …

1
Episode 190 - Vermont Fest & Flashback to the CIS Controls Episode 50:49

6M ago50:49

50:49

Chris and Mark are traveling this week and try to record an episode next to a rowdy party of librarians at Vita-Learn's Vermont Fest. We give a brief intro and then flashback to episode 132 where we cover the CIS Controls, a set of cyber security frameworks to help districts evaluate and improve their cyber security. -------------------- ManagedMet…

1
Episode 189 - Election 2024 44:48

6M ago44:48

44:48

Chris, Josh, and Mark get political - they discuss their thoughts on the impact of this year's election on the K12 technology landscape (E-Rate, cybersecurity, DoE, and AI). They also discuss new AI guidance, spooky edtech apps, Halloween costumes, and the latest in k12 tech news. Education Department releases highly anticipated AI toolkit for scho…

1
How to Respond When Parents Say, ‘Not Interested’ 34:15

6M ago34:15

34:15

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo and Dr. Justin Kwan from CooperVision discuss how optometrists can effectively respond when parents say "not interested" to myopia management recommendations. They share insights gathered from a recent workshop with over 60 doctors and explore strategies to handle patient objections with empathy and clarity. WATCH E…

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Episode 188 - Just Following Orders 1:05:41

6M ago1:05:41

1:05:41

Chris, Josh, and Mark talk about the MOREnet conference, an update on the student misuse of AI case, a security report showing a decline in ransomware, and most of the episode is spent discussing how to handle requests from leadership that may cross the line. Bethalto superintendent Jill Griffin's email sparks public outrage The Telegraph obtains B…

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Episode 187 - Smishing, NCSR, and Other Hot Topics 53:53

6M ago53:53

53:53

Mark is on an autonomous road trip, so Chris and Josh hold down the fort. They discuss the latest hot topics on K12TechPro, including smishing, the NCSR survey, tech dept staffing, a student getting in trouble for AI, Chromebook forced reboots, and more. NTP is going to MOREnet next week and Vita Learn Vermont Fest in November with K12TechPro and u…

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From One Location to Six: Dr. Garrett Whitmore’s Secrets to Practice Growth 56:08

7M ago56:08

56:08

In this episode, Dr. Steve Vargo interviews Dr. Garrett Whitmore, a successful optometry practice owner who expanded from one to six locations, doubling revenue multiple times. Dr. Whitmore shares insights into the challenges of scaling a practice, emphasizing the importance of leadership, systems, culture, and marketing. He discusses the role of s…

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Episode 186 - AI Vetoes, Supreme Court Showdowns, and the Case for Collaboration 49:13

7M ago49:13

49:13

This week on K12 Tech Talk, we unpack the latest developments in education technology, including Governor Newsom's veto of California's AI accountability bill and its implications for K12 schools. We also delve into a critical E-Rate case, Wisconsin Bell vs. the United States, currently before the Supreme Court, and discuss its potential impact on …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

IDOC Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen