Eye Care Business Canada

Revenue RX — Pulling Back the Curtain: The Host’s Back Story

Every optical entrepreneur has a back story. A series of zigzags, bets, leaps of faith, and moments where you either step into the unknown… or step aside. In this special episode of Revenue RX, I’m pulling back the curtain and taking you behind the mic, into the unconventional journey that shaped the way I think about business, leadership, opportunity, and the optical retail world.

This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a look at the real road that led me to buying two optical stores without being an optician or an optometrist, and why that unconventional path turned out to be my greatest asset.

A Life Built on Saying “Yes” to the Unknown

Before I ever stepped into the optical industry, I lived a dozen different “lives.” Real estate, Xerox sales, commercial leasing, pro hockey in Italy, modelling in Europe, building a national sport association, consulting for small businesses, running a pet food company, even jumping into the restaurant world in Japan. All of it shaped how I see opportunity and how I understand people.

The thread connecting every one of those chapters was simple:
Do the work. Stay curious. Don’t fear the unknown.
Those three things will take you further than any job title ever will.

Real Estate: The First Big Lesson

My first real wake-up call came in real estate. I learned quickly that there is no “secret” formula for success. Presence matters. Discipline matters. Understanding the emotional side of a customer’s decision matters. Those early days taught me how clients feel when making a purchase — a lesson that translates directly into how a patient chooses eyewear.

People don’t just buy a frame.
They buy how they feel wearing it.

Xerox: Premium Products, Premium Confidence

My detour into Xerox was intentional; I needed world-class sales training. They taught me how to present value, how to justify premium pricing, and most importantly, how to ask for the order. Those skills became foundational in the dispensary years later, where helping patients choose the right premium lens or designer frame is an emotional and financial decision.

And yes, the story of my hiring, where I finally said: “you have all the information you need, so either give me the job or cut me loose”, still makes me smile. Sometimes, in business and in life, you don’t get what you deserve… you get what you ask for.

Commercial Real Estate: Knowledge Is Power

Moving into commercial leasing revealed another truth: If you know something others don’t, you become indispensable.

Providing clarity, data, ROI, and detail build trust. That confidence carried straight into the optical business, where understanding margins, revenue streams, and patient psychology separates average dispensaries from profitable ones.

Triple Five & Negotiation: Timing Is Everything

Working for a major development company taught me the biggest negotiating lesson of my life:
The only variable in closing a deal is timing.

Influence? Yes.
Pressure? Maybe.
But timing always wins.

That applies perfectly in the dispensary. Sometimes the patient is ready today. Sometimes tomorrow. Your job isn’t to push. Your job is to guide.

Hockey, Italy & Taking Chances

Then came the curveball: pro hockey in Italy: player-coach, no Italian, a lot of creativity. The real takeaway?
When opportunity knocks, open the door, even if you have no idea what’s on the other side.

That mindset later helped me see the optical business through a fresh lens. I didn’t inherit old industry habits. I built my own approach.

Modelling, Europe & Self-Promotion

Commercial modelling taught me two lessons:

Take the first step; it’s usually the hardest.
Opportunities appear when you put yourself out there.

That same hustle helped me drive traffic, brand awareness, and growth when I owned my optical stores.

NIHA: Building Something from Nothing

Founding and scaling the National Inline Hockey Association became one of the biggest business adventures of my life. From securing sponsors like Rollerblade, Bauer, and CCM, to publishing a magazine, to running national championships, it was entrepreneurship in its rawest form.

If you can build a national sports association, you can build an optical business. Trust me.

Japan: Leadership Comes from the Bottom Up

Running marketing for 20 restaurant franchises in Japan revealed one of the most important leadership principles I still teach today:
Your staff are the most important asset in the business.
Your job is to empower them, not sit above them.

If you get this right in your optical practice, your revenue grows. If you get it wrong, everything suffers.

Returning to Canada & Choosing Entrepreneurship for Good

Back in Vancouver, working in resort real estate made one thing clear: Corporate life wasn’t my path.
Entrepreneurship was.

Consulting gave me an outside-in view of how businesses grow, and where they get stuck. Those insights became the blueprint I later used to guide my own optical stores.

Pet Food, Import/Export & the Final Leap

More adventures, more businesses, more marketing lessons. All of it brought me to one realization:
I had the toolkit to run a retail business, I just needed the right industry.

Then I found the optical opportunity.
Need-based product. Loyal customers. Multiple revenue streams.
A business where great service actually changes lives.

The rest is history.

Why I’m Telling You This Story

Because your story matters too.
Every skill you’ve learned, every job you’ve held, every challenge you’ve survived, it’s all transferable. Optical retail is a business built on connection, service, humanity, and confidence. The more life experience you bring to it, the stronger your practice becomes.

This episode isn’t just about my past.
It’s about reminding you of your own potential.

This episode is personal, reflective, and packed with lessons that shaped how I approach leadership and optical retail growth.
To hear the full story, with all the insight, humour, and hard-earned lessons, listen to the full Revenue RX episode now.

Joseph Mireault

Joseph Mireault, Optical Entrepreneur, Business Coach, and Published Author.

Joseph was the owner and president at Tru-Valu Optical and EyeWorx for 16 years. During his tenure, he consistently generated a sustainable $500K in annual gross revenue from the dispensary.

He now focuses on the Optical industry, and as a serial entrepreneur brings extensive experience from a variety of different ventures.

Joseph is also a Certified FocalPoint Business Coach and looks to work directly with ECPs in achieving their goals.

Through his current endeavour, the (Revenue RX, Optical Retail Wins podcast) he shares the challenges and solutions of running an Optical business.

His insights are shared with optical business owners aspiring for greater success in his new book, “An Entrepreneur’s Eye Care Odyssey: The Path to Optical Retail Success.”

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Professionalism at the Heart of IRIS

sponsor, Sponsored Posts

Iris sponsored post image. Woman selecting a frame.

At IRIS, professionalism is a promise.
Every member of our team—whether optometrist, optician, or advisor—shares a deep commitment to quality and excellence. We believe that our patients’ trust is earned through the passion we bring to our work, along with honesty and respect.

This is why every visit to IRIS is guided by meticulous attention to detail, genuine listening, and a sincere desire to provide the experience of better vision. Professionalism also means recognizing that every pair of eyes is unique. We don’t simply sell eyewear—we support people.

Our approach is rooted in a thorough understanding of each client’s visual needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic expectations. Every recommendation is thoughtful, personalized, and supported by the expertise of passionate professionals.

Quality as a Signature

At IRIS, the quality of our care and service leaves nothing to chance. Our professionals practice according to the highest industry standards and provide rigorous follow-up at every stage of the visual journey.

From comprehensive eye exams to precise frame adjustments, every action is performed with care. We use advanced diagnostic instruments to ensure the early detection of visual and ocular conditions. Our mission is simple: to offer high-quality products and services in the field of eye care.

Every lens, every frame, and every treatment is selected based on strict criteria of performance, durability, and comfort. Because every patient’s eyes deserve the very best, IRIS partners with leading manufacturers and develops exclusive technologies that redefine vision standards in Canada.

Apogée Lenses: Precision Reinvented

A product of IRIS expertise and innovation, Apogée lenses represent the highest standard in customized vision.

They are designed using advanced technologies that enhance clarity, precision, and sharpness in all conditions. Each Apogée lens is tailored to the unique physiology, visual habits, and environment of every client.

Thanks to an ultra-precise manufacturing process, Apogée lenses deliver a smooth, natural visual experience. They reduce optical aberrations, improve contrast, and provide comfortable vision from morning to night.

It’s the perfect solution for those seeking vision without compromise. Apogée lenses are also backed by the IRIS unconditional guarantee—a testament to our complete confidence in their performance and durability. Choosing Apogée means choosing optimal optical quality and personalized comfort.

Personalized Service

At IRIS, every client is welcomed as a guest. Our service is built on human connection above all else. We take the time to learn about their story, their activities, and their specific visual needs.

Our teams don’t simply offer a product—they create an experience.
From booking an appointment to receiving their new glasses, every step is designed to make their visit to IRIS pleasant and reassuring.

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The A+ Method for Connecting with Kids in Clinic

Human Resources

When a child walks into your optometry clinic, they’re not just bringing their eyes, they’re bringing their emotions, too.

Whether it’s nervousness about the eye exam, confusion about blurry vision, or even fear of getting glasses, kids are often navigating more than they can express. That’s why the three ‘A’s of Self-Awareness—Assess, Acknowledge, Adjust— are so powerful in pediatric eye care.

By using these steps intentionally, we help young patients better understand their emotions and feel supported through a positive, trust-building experience.

Assess – Helping the Child Notice What They’re Feeling

Kids might not walk in saying, “I’m anxious about this exam,” but their bodies and behavior will often speak for them, fidgeting, clinging to a parent, or becoming uncharacteristically quiet.

As professionals, we can guide a child to assess their emotional state by asking simple, supportive questions:

“How are you feeling about today’s visit?”

“Have you been to an eye doctor before?”

“Anything you’re curious or unsure about?”

This invites them to check in with themselves, even if they don’t have all the words. Visual aids like emotion faces or a feelings chart can make this even easier, especially for younger children.

Example: A child says, “I feel a little weird about the machine that puffs air.”
You’ve just opened a door to self-awareness—and trust.

Acknowledge – Validating Their Emotions Without Dismissing Them

Once a child expresses how they feel, the next step is helping them acknowledge it as valid.

This doesn’t mean fixing it or brushing past it with “You’ll be fine” it means naming it, accepting it, and letting them know it’s okay.

Try responses like:

“A lot of kids feel unsure about that part; it can be a bit surprising.”

“It makes sense you feel nervous, new things can feel a little strange at first.”

When we acknowledge a child’s emotions, they feel understood instead of rushed. This helps them settle, feel safer, and become more receptive to what’s next.

Example: A child who’s hesitant to try on glasses says, “I don’t want to look weird.”
You respond, “That makes total sense. Sometimes changes take a bit to get used to, but you might be surprised how cool you look.”

Adjust – Guiding a New Response with Confidence and Support

Now comes the moment to help the child adjust, not by forcing them to “get over it,” but by gently guiding them toward a new emotional response or mindset.

This could look like:

Giving them agency “Would you like to try this frame or this one first?”

Reframing the situation “These lenses will help everything feel easier at school.”

Practicing a calming strategy together before a test, like deep breath before the air puff.

Example: A child who’s still unsure about getting glasses is offered a mirror and frame options that match their favorite colour.
You say, “Let’s find a pair that feels just right for you. Something that shows off who you are.”

They feel seen. They feel empowered. That’s emotional intelligence in action.

Why It Matters in Eye Care

When we apply Assess, Acknowledge, and Adjust with our young patients, we’re not just making the appointment smoother, we’re building:

Confidence in unfamiliar situations

Positive associations with health care

A sense of agency in their choices

Emotional trust in us as professionals

And that trust doesn’t just make today easier. It impacts how they approach their health, their self-esteem, and even their learning for years to come.

Let’s use the ‘A’s of self-awareness to make every visit one where they feel not only cared for—but understood.

Jade Bodzasy

Jade Bodzasy, Founder of Emotional Intelligence Consulting Inc., is a dedicated Coach and Consultant for Optometric Practices. Her extensive background includes over 20,000 hours of expertise focused on customer relations, work structure refinement, training method development, and fostering improved work culture within Optometric practices.

Certified in Rational Emotive Behavior Techniques (REBT), Jade possesses a unique skillset that empowers individuals to gain profound insights into the origins of their behaviors, as well as those of others. Leveraging her certification, she equips optometry practices with invaluable resources and expert guidance to establish and sustain a positive, healthful, and productive work environment.

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Revenue RX Episode 29: You Have Nothing to Fear but Fear Itself

Practice

Fear gets a bad rap. We treat it like something to avoid, something to push down, something that “strong leaders” shouldn’t feel. But here’s the truth I explore in this episode of Revenue RX: fear is everywhere. It’s wired into us. And whether we admit it or not, fear plays a massive role in how we run our optical businesses, how we treat our teams, and how we show up with customers.

Fear used to exist to keep us alive. Sabre-toothed tigers, cliffs, danger. Today those threats look a little different: bills, slow months, online reviews, competition, staff turnover, disappointing others, failing publicly. The brain doesn’t care what the threat is, it reacts the same way.

And after years of conditioning from news, ads, society, and our own lived experiences, fear starts to feel… normal. Familiar. Comfortable, even. Which is why it sneaks quietly into our business decisions when we’re not paying attention.

In this episode, I dig into how fear shows up in the workplace:
the way customers react, the way teams hesitate, and the way owners slip into playing defense instead of offense. When you let it take over, fear shuts down risk-taking, kills creativity, and keeps you from stepping into the leadership your business actually needs from you.

But here’s the twist: fear isn’t all bad. In healthy doses, fear sharpens you, wakes you up, makes you prepare better, and pushes you to grow. Courage doesn’t exist without fear. And in small business ownership, especially optical retail, courage is the difference between staying stuck and breaking through.

I share personal stories from my early days in business about how fear followed me to work every morning… and how I learned to blunt it with one thing: a plan. When you turn fear into action, even small action, the grip loosens.

We also explore the emotional spillover:
how fear in your personal life rides shotgun into your store unless you learn to recognize it. Fear of money issues. Fear of self-worth. Fear of disappointing others. If you don’t catch it early, fear becomes the hidden author of your decisions. You think you’re “being cautious,” but really you’re being controlled.

The good news? Fear can be flipped.
It can become a signal instead of a stop sign. It can make you more empathetic with customers, more patient with your staff, more human as a leader. And when you choose courage instead of paralysis, you give your whole team permission to do the same.

Before we wrap, I also share how fear gets disguised as ambition — how the drive to “achieve” is often rooted in the terror of not being enough, or of failing publicly. And how one simple mindset shift (“I learned what not to do again”) can turn failure from something shameful into something productive.

Then we get into something practical: a handful of low-risk, revenue-boosting ideas optical owners can use right away to get out of fear-mode and back into growth-mode. Small steps, small wins: the antidote to fear.

This episode is for every owner who has ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or secretly worried about the future. Fear is part of the journey, but it doesn’t have to be the driver of your business. You can feel it without obeying it. You can acknowledge it without shrinking from it. And you can absolutely build a thriving store even when uncertainty is in the air.

🎧 Listen to the full episode for the full breakdown, real examples, and simple tools to shift fear into something that fuels your momentum instead of stopping it.

Joseph Mireault

Joseph Mireault, Optical Entrepreneur, Business Coach, and Published Author.

Joseph was the owner and president at Tru-Valu Optical and EyeWorx for 16 years. During his tenure, he consistently generated a sustainable $500K in annual gross revenue from the dispensary.

He now focuses on the Optical industry, and as a serial entrepreneur brings extensive experience from a variety of different ventures.

Joseph is also a Certified FocalPoint Business Coach and looks to work directly with ECPs in achieving their goals.

Through his current endeavour, the (Revenue RX, Optical Retail Wins podcast) he shares the challenges and solutions of running an Optical business.

His insights are shared with optical business owners aspiring for greater success in his new book, “An Entrepreneur’s Eye Care Odyssey: The Path to Optical Retail Success.”

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The Art of Mentorship

Independent SightLines

Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn.” Centuries later, Winston Churchill admitted, “I am always ready to learn but I do not always like being taught.” These perspectives capture the delicate balance of effective mentorship: the need to actively engage learners while respecting that not everyone learns the same way or at the same pace.

After 30 years in practice, I’ve shifted much of my energy toward mentoring the next generation of eyecare professionals. Here are some insights I’ve gathered along the way.

Learning Needs to be an Institutional Core Concept

A learning organization is always looking to improve. Learning must be part of your core values, which means embracing change and maintaining genuine excitement about delivering better patient care. It’s crucial to recognize that we all can learn from each other, regardless of position in the organization or educational background. The optical assistant may have insights the optometrist needs to hear, and vice versa.

When the Student is Ready, the Teacher Will Appear

This was one of my father’s favourite sayings. As a teacher himself, I wasn’t completely convinced his mantra made sense at the time. Over the years, though, I’ve come to appreciate its wisdom: not everyone is immediately ready to learn new things, nor will they always accept your expertise right away. Don’t take it personally. Continue to be available, build trust, and demonstrate your commitment to their growth. The student will come around when they’re ready.

Observation is often an underrated form of learning. Watching experienced team members navigate challenging patient interactions and exemplify best practices can be invaluable preparation before someone attempts these skills solo in real time.

Hire on Personality, Then Train the Skills

On my 40th birthday, my buddies took me golfing. A young woman was selling drinks on the course, and she was so personable that I recommended she switch gears and sell glasses instead.

The next day, she submitted her resume. She’s now been with our practice for 15 years and holds a leadership role championing our dry eye business.

The lesson? Watch for great personalities, then train the skills. It’s remarkable what motivated team members can achieve with proper training and mentoring. There’s deep satisfaction in developing talent internally, and it’s often more cost-effective too.

Much like a sports team that drafts and develops superstars rather than paying premium prices in free agency, having a portion of your team “home grown” helps manage staffing costs. While we should certainly recruit skilled talent from outside when needed, developing leaders through your internal ranks makes the business more sustainable and creates a culture of loyalty and growth.

The Teacher Becomes the Student

One of the great rewards of mentoring someone new to optometry or opticianry is that the teacher can learn too. Perhaps there’s a new methodology, a fresh clinical approach, or, heaven forbid, another acronym to master. Recently, a new graduate introduced me to enhanced imaging techniques for anterior segment OCT that have genuinely improved my diagnostic confidence.

We can always learn from each other. This exchange keeps practice fresh for veterans while reinforcing the recent education of newer team members. It’s a virtuous cycle when egos are left at the door.

Measurement and Auditing

It’s important to track metrics such as multiple pair sales, capture rates, and revenue per patient. This allows for benchmarking and helps identify training gaps. For instance, if capture rates are low, we can provide targeted coaching on frame selection techniques or patient communication strategies.

Continuous learning also means conducting periodic audits to assess comprehensive care delivery and implementation of best practices. Everyone needs to be open to assessment and improvement, including the practice owner and senior doctors.

When Egos Get in the Way

It takes genuine humility to learn from someone new rather than relying solely on years of experience. Rooted in fear of becoming obsolete or being viewed as outdated, some of us move forward in defensive ways that actually squelch learning and innovation.

Vulnerability is key here. Don’t guard against a bruised ego. Instead, normalize learning from mistakes and celebrate advancements in the collective knowledge of the team.

Personally, I’m excited about the next generation of doctors who graduate with an impressive amount of knowledge and skill. When I lecture, I encourage new graduates to find a more experienced mentor who will keep it real and support their growth. Then I tell them: get after it!

Mentorship isn’t a one-way street where knowledge flows from senior to junior. It’s a dynamic exchange that enriches everyone involved, strengthens your practice, and ultimately leads to better patient care. The art lies in creating an environment where both teaching and learning can flourish, where Franklin’s wisdom about involvement meets Churchill’s preference for discovery over instruction.

DR. TREVOR MIRANDA

Dr. Miranda is a partner in a multi-doctor, five-location practice on Vancouver Island.

He is a strong advocate for true Independent Optometry.

As a serial entrepreneur, Trevor is constantly testing different patient care and business models at his various locations. Many of these have turned out to be quite successful, to the point where many of his colleagues have adopted them into their own practices. His latest project is the Optometry Unleashed podcast.

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Canadian Tech Company OTTO Expands in the U.S. — Offers Free Access for Clinics Across North America

Practice, Products | Services | Industry News

A Canadian-made success story is making waves on both sides of the border.
OTTO, a Canadian e-commerce and patient relationship platform designed specifically for eye care professionals, continues to grow its footprint in the U.S. market through a new integration with e-dr. (New Era). The partnership makes contact lens fulfillment even more seamless for independent practices — and signals another milestone for the Canadian company’s rapid North American expansion.

Founded in 2020 by Alex McIntosh, OTTO was created to help optometrists and optical retailers simplify their retail operations, modernize patient engagement, and recapture between-exam sales.

Today, more than 700 clinics across North America use the platform to automate ordering, manage fulfillment, and stay connected to patients through digital tools built for the profession.

“Our goal has always been to simplify the lives of eye care providers,” says McIntosh. “We’re proud that a Canadian-built solution is helping practices everywhere deliver a better, more modern patient experience.”

Free Platform Access Until May 2026

To mark its continued growth, OTTO is offering free access to the full platform until May 2026 — with no setup fees, no contracts, and no obligation to continue.

The offer is available to both Canadian and U.S. clinics, giving practices the opportunity to experience the benefits of OTTO’s integrated e-commerce system at no cost.

Through the platform, clinics can:

Process contact lens orders directly with leading suppliers
Retain existing pricing, discounts, and rebate structures
Automate refill reminders and subscription renewals
Capture reorders through personalized order links
Provide instant lens quotes and annual-supply incentives

A Growing Canadian Innovation Story

OTTO’s growing list of supplier integrations — including ABB, OOGP, FAIT, Johnson & Johnson, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb, Eye Drop Shop, and now e-dr. (New Era) — positions it as one of the most connected digital retail platforms in eye care.

Clinics interested in exploring the platform can learn more or book a demo at ottooptics.io.

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The Perfect Pair: Glasses AND Contact Lenses

Differentiation | Business Strategy, Marketing, Practice

By Dr. Mark Shaeffer, OD, FAAO

New data sheds light on patient interest in dual wear—and missed opportunities in practice.

A recent survey commissioned by the Contact Lens Institute reveals a critical disconnect in the delivery of care: despite being strong candidates for both glasses and contact lenses, most patients are rarely encouraged to consider both. This dual-wear approach—alternating between frames and lenses based on lifestyle and context—may be the key to higher patient satisfaction and practice growth.

The findings come from a survey of 2,004 adults who use vision correction. Participants were grouped into exclusive glasses wearers, exclusive contact lens wearers, and those who use both—so-called dual wearers. The results highlight knowledge gaps, outdated perceptions, and untapped potential for ECPs to better meet the diverse needs of modern patients.

Glasses, Lenses—or Why Not Both?

Exclusive glasses wearers still dominate the field, with 1,416 in the survey versus just 115 exclusive contact lens wearers. But a notable 473 individuals reported using both, indicating that dual wear is far more common—and desirable—than many practitioners may realize.

Interestingly, 75% of all patients said that contact lenses weren’t even mentioned at their last eye exam. Of the remaining 25%, most had to initiate the conversation themselves. Only 5% were offered a trial pair.

This matters, because patients are curious. Nearly one in five glasses wearers said they were “very interested” in trying lenses, and many cited a free trial set, better awareness of options, and discounts as incentives to consider both.

Barriers—Real and Perceived

When asked why they avoided contact lenses, glasses-only wearers cited concerns like safety (58%), comfort (46%), and fears about touching their eyes (46%). These lingering perceptions suggest that many patients remain unaware of the technological advancements that have improved comfort, ease of use, and lens customization over the years.

Conversely, contact lens wearers who didn’t wear glasses saw them as providing inferior vision (70%) or causing undesirable thick lenses. Some feared that switching between corrections could harm their eyesight—a misconception that calls for more proactive education.

Lifestyle-Driven Choices

Dual wearers, those who already embrace both modalities, offer a window into modern visual lifestyles. Their habits are dictated less by vision needs and more by situational preference. For instance, glasses were favoured when working from home or flying. Contact lenses, on the other hand, were preferred for workdays, physical activity, social outings, and even dating.

Dual wearers also reported a high degree of satisfaction. They described being able to “feel their best” (84%), match their vision correction to how their eyes felt each day (82%), and even pair their correction with their mood (60%). This illustrates how today’s patients view eyewear and lenses as part of a larger self-expression toolkit—not just a medical device.

Where ECPs Can Do More

Most patients continue to purchase their devices from their ECPs, suggesting a strong foundation of trust. However, this trust is undermined if patients don’t hear about all their options.

Too often, practitioners wait for the patient to ask about contact lenses or glasses. Meanwhile, patients assume that if something isn’t mentioned, they must not be a candidate.

Closing this communication gap is essential. Whether it’s offering an in-office trial pair of lenses, explaining that prescriptions can be used across modalities, or simply bringing up the subject, initiating the conversation makes a measurable difference.

Freedom to Choose

Dual wear isn’t just a fashion statement or a matter of convenience, it’s a patient-centered strategy that aligns with modern lifestyles. For ECPs, it also represents a missed opportunity if overlooked.

Today’s patients want options, control, and personalization. By embracing a mindset that encourages both glasses and contact lenses where appropriate, practitioners can boost satisfaction, improve outcomes, and strengthen loyalty.

Glasses and contact lenses aren’t in competition. When paired effectively, they’re the perfect team.

Dr. Mark Shaeffer, OD, FAAO

An optometrist by profession, educator by passion. Leveraging my training and expertise, I thrive on bridging the gap between healthcare and patient well-being. Whether it’s engaging in one-on-one consultations or addressing a room full of peers, my aim is to enhance eye care at every opportunity. Fortunate to be supported by an outstanding team and remarkable partners, I contribute to delivering innovative care in examination rooms, conference halls, boardrooms, and beyond.

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2025 Year End Tax Planning Tips

Practice

As 2025 winds down, it’s the perfect time to review your financial situation and make strategic moves that could benefit your 2025 tax return and set you up for a strong start in 2026. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

Capital Gains & Losses

While the proposed changes to capital gains inclusion rates have been shelved indefinitely*, it’s still wise to review your non-registered investments, both personally and corporately. If you anticipate needing income in 2026, consider triggering gains or losses now to optimize your marginal tax rate both for this year and the next.

Open an FHSA, Even If You’re Not Ready to Contribute

Looking to start saving for your first home? Opening a First Home Savings Account (FHSA) in 2025, even without contributing, provides you with the current year contribution limit of $8,000, allowing you to pump up your savings to $16,000 of contribution room in 2026.

Home Buyers’ Plan RRSP Withdrawals

Planning to use your RRSP for a first-time home purchase? Make your eligible withdrawal before December 31, 2025 to benefit from the enhanced temporary* repayment relief period. Withdrawals made between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2025, enjoy an extra three-year grace period before repayments begin.

Turning 71 This Year? Time to Convert Your RRSP

If you turned 71 in 2025, you must convert your RRSP to a RRIF by year-end. Mandatory minimum withdrawals will begin next year.

TFSA Withdrawal Timing Matters

Thinking of withdrawing from your TFSA early in 2026? Remember, any amount you withdraw is added back to your contribution room January 1 of the following calendar year. If you plan to recontribute, consider withdrawing before December 31 to avoid potential overcontribution penalties in 2026.

RESP Withdrawals for Post-Secondary Students

If your child started post-secondary studies this year, you can make a second RESP withdrawal in 2025 provided the first withdrawal was at least 13 weeks prior. This can help manage your student’s taxable income from withdrawals of grants and growth. Also, consider making a withdrawal before year-end rather than in 2026 if your student is finishing their studies in Winter 2026 so as to capture the taxation in 2025 rather than when they will likely earn more taxable income in their year of graduation.

Maximize RDSP Contributions

If you or your child has a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), make your annual contribution before year-end to take full advantage of the Canada Disability Savings Grants and Bonds.

Be Tax Savvy with your Charitable Giving

To claim a donation tax credit on your 2025 return, donations must be made by December 31. For larger gifts, consider donating non-registered marketable securities that have grown in value so you can also eliminate your tax burden from the capital gain.

Prescribed Rate Loans: Don’t Miss the Deadline

If you’re using a prescribed rate loan for family income splitting, ensure the interest payment is made and received within the first 30 days of 2026. This keeps the strategy compliant and effective.

Need Help Navigating Your Year-End Planning?
We’re here to help you make informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Reach out to us with any questions or to schedule a personalized review. at roxanne@c3wealthadvisors.ca or 780-261-3098.

*note: this article was written prior to the November 4, 2025 Federal Budget release.

Roxanne Arnal is a Certified Financial Planner®, Chartered Life Underwriter®, Certified Health Insurance Specialist, former Optometrist, Professional Corporation President, and practice owner. She is dedicated to empowering individuals and their wealth by helping them make smart financial decisions that bring more joy to their lives.

This article is for information purposes only and is not a replacement for personalized financial planning. Errors and Omissions exempt.

ROXANNE ARNAL,

Optometrist and Certified Financial Planner

Roxanne Arnal graduated from UW School of Optometry in 1995 and is a past-president of the Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO) and the Canadian Association of Optometry Students (CAOS). She subsequently built a thriving optometric practice in rural Alberta.

Roxanne took the decision in 2012 to leave optometry and become a financial planning professional. She now focuses on providing services to Optometrists with a plan to parlay her unique expertise to help optometric practices and their families across the country meet their goals through astute financial planning and decision making.

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The Human Equation in Optometry: OSI’s Vision for Independent Clinics

Dr. Meenal Agarwal on Mental Health

For OSI Member and podcast host Dr. Meenal Agarwal, the profession’s limited focus on stress management and high-pressure decision making has become a critical gap. Through her program Uncover Your Eyes, she argues that mental health is not a private concern to be managed outside the clinic, but a clinical strength that shapes daily interactions with patients and staff.

“I want ODs to embrace mental health as part of professional excellence,” she says. “That means self-advocacy, boundary-setting, and emotional literacy in clinic routines. Sensitivity isn’t a weakness; it’s a clinical strength.”

She points out that optometrists who overlook their own mental state risk burnout and poor communication. Research on stress and cognition supports the link—when an OD carries unacknowledged strain into an exam room, it can alter their ability to listen and weigh information. Patients sense this, and outcomes suffer.

Uncover Your Eyes insists these skills belong alongside technical training. In a profession where continuing education is dominated by lenses and procedures, Dr. Agarwal makes the case that emotional steadiness is just as central.

Her message has gained traction within the OSI community, where innovation is increasingly defined not only by equipment and technique but by the human side of practice. By framing mental health as part of professional excellence, Dr. Agarwal is pushing optometry to expand its definition of what it means to lead a sustainable practice.

Dr. Hansel Huang on Finding Confidence

If Dr. Agarwal’s work shows how mental health can be taught as a clinical strength, Dr. Hansel Huang’s story illustrates what support looks like at the start of a career. The OSI Member recently shared his journey on Future Focus, a podcast hosted by Dr. Amrit Bilkhu and Dr. Alexa Hecht.

In the episode, Huang speaks candidly about pressures that extend far beyond the exam room: the sting of imposter syndrome, the weight of patient responsibility, and the mental toll of unexpected exam changes such as the NBEO score revisions. Left unchecked, these stresses can compound into isolation and self-doubt.

What shifted his trajectory was connection. Early in practice, OSI Advisor Jas Ryat created space for open conversation and judgment-free problem solving. “Jas was so good, OSI was so good—it was like, yeah, let’s have meetings, let’s talk about it. The fact that there was no judging, just support and resources, was really cool,” Huang recalls. Having that sounding board helped him see that asking questions was not weakness but part of professional growth.

From there, he began to reframe stress as fuel rather than a flaw. On the podcast, Huang described moving from the mindset of doing what he was “supposed to” into a path of self-discovery—eventually becoming a mental health coach as well as an optometrist. He now helps peers turn fear into motivation, combat imposter syndrome, and foster healthier team cultures that value support over pressure.

His evolution from self-doubt to advocate shows how targeted intervention at the right moment can change a career arc, and how these changes ripple outward as the next generation takes on leadership roles.

Lessons Across the Profession

The stories of Dr. Agarwal and Dr. Huang underscore that clinical skill alone does not define success. Their experiences highlight how stress management and empathy shape outcomes just as much as diagnostic accuracy. When viewed through the lens of the profession as a whole, these themes carry meaning for every stage of practice.

For students and new graduates, the message is that true practice readiness extends beyond technical skill. The ability to manage stress and communicate with empathy can shorten the steep learning curve after graduation and build confidence in early patient encounters.For clinic owners, the challenge is balancing multiple roles at once—clinician, employer, business manager. Emotional steadiness becomes a leadership asset, shaping how owners support staff and navigate the financial and strategic decisions that define the long run of a practice. This is where OSI’s resources matter most, offering resilience tools that make the load more manageable—whether through advisor support or targeted education.

For teams and staff, the benefits reach beyond the optometrist. Through initiatives like Uncover Your Eyes and the Future Focus podcast, OSI helps foster a clinic culture that values openness and empathy. When staff feel supported, patient experience improves, and the business as a whole becomes more adaptable.

A Broader Definition of Innovation

Too often, innovation in optometry is equated with the latest technology. OSI takes a wider view: real progress comes from investing in people. Innovation here means shifting from transactional care to transformational care, where the focus extends beyond the exam room into the relationships that sustain independent practice.

Independent practice is a network of relationships—between doctor and patient, owner and staff, clinician and community. OSI positions its members to see these connections as opportunities for growth rather than sources of strain. Patient stress becomes a chance to deepen trust. Leadership load becomes a test of resilience. Decision fatigue signals the need to adopt new ways of working.

By treating these realities as part of clinical life rather than distractions from it, OSI positions its members to adapt early and thrive. The result is a model of support that helps independent optometry stay resilient in a crowded healthcare landscape, and a reminder that the future of the profession depends as much on people as on procedures.

Support as a Standard for Care

Independence has always defined optometry, but connection is what sustains it. The stories of Dr. Agarwal and Dr. Huang show how shared resources and collective insight can turn everyday pressures into opportunities to grow.

For OSI Members, that means putting the network to use—drawing on practice advisors, exploring programs like Uncover Your Eyes, and inviting staff to join the conversation. For non-members, these stories are a window into what OSI offers: a community where independence is supported by shared resources, not carried alone.

Listen to Dr. Agarwal’s Uncover Your Eyes, Dr. Huang on Future Focus, and explore OSI’s resources at opto.com.

At OSI, we help you see further.

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