Episode 18: Dr. Jill Saxon – Permission to Speak: Lessons from a Navy Optometrist

Dr. Jill Saxon has never backed down from a challenge. Stepping out as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy straight out of school laid the foundation for how she leads today. She learned to lead with courage in the face of uncertainty, to listen differently to patients in a deeper way, and to lean on the strength of her team. She now brings those lessons to her role as executive director of professional strategy at Bausch & Lomb.

Dr. Saxon shares the pivotal experiences that have shaped her, including an unforgettable moment in the military that redefined her understanding of patient care. She also reflects on her transition from clinical practice to industry, the importance of saying yes before you feel ready, and why discomfort is often the greatest teacher for leaders and their teams.

Show Notes

[00:01:45] Working with the New Jersey Devils

[00:06:57] Kyle Coon

[00:08:50] Inspiring patients

[00:09:58] Challenge coin

[00:14:50] Early experiences pushing the limits

[00:16:50] Introduction to the military

[00:19:30] Gaining confidence in the military

[00:21:49] Turning fear into growth opportunities

[00:24:09] Saying yes and empowering your team

[00:27:07] Navigating hesitation

[00:29:23] Lessons and powerful moment from the navy

[00:35:42] Listening differently to patients

[00:38:00] Reliving experiences

[00:41:13] Better 1 or Better 2

[00:45:23] Transitioning to industry

[00:49:00] Culture of support

[00:50:30] Investing time in the future and present

[00:53:13] Mentorship advice

[00:59:47] Comfortable with uncomfortable

[01:03:35] Family inspiration

[01:05:23] Embracing imbalance

[01:08:41] Exciting future for optometry

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