Dr. Ryan Corte interviews Dr. Chris Lopez about the 2025 ODs on Finance report, discussing key findings related to optometry salaries, student loan debt, and the importance of financial education. They explore regional salary disparities, work-life balance, and the impact of gender on income. The conversation emphasizes the need for better financial literacy among optometrists and the potential benefits of practice ownership.
Download the full report here: https://odsonfinance.com/optometrist-income-report2025/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
02:25 Background of Dr. Chris Lopez
05:54 Insights from the 2025 ODs on Finance Report
09:24 Regional Salary Disparities in Optometry
12:31 Work-Life Balance and Income Expectations
16:12 The Need for Financial Education in Optometry Schools
19:11 Income Trends Based on Practice Modality
23:54 Rural vs Urban Practice Opportunities
27:03 Addressing the Gender Wage Gap in Optometry
30:50 Trends in Female Practice Ownership
31:46 Empowerment Through Ownership
33:08 Income Disparities in Optometry
36:07 Average Net Worth of Optometrists
38:21 Impact of Practice Ownership on Financial Success
40:28 Understanding Financial Metrics in Optometry
42:26 Gender and Racial Disparities in Net Worth
44:44 Student Loan Debt and Financial Education
47:43 Navigating Student Loan Repayment Options
50:46 Investment Strategies for Financial Freedom
51:45 The Importance of Side Hustles
55:08 Job Satisfaction in Optometry
59:47 Financial Challenges Facing Optometrists
01:01:17 Final Thoughts on Financial Literacy in Optometry
Takeaways
- Dr. Chris Lopez shares his journey in optometry and the importance of financial education.
- The 2025 ODs on Finance report highlights significant disparities in optometry salaries based on region and practice modality.
- Student loan debt remains a critical issue for new optometrists, with many graduating with over $300,000 in debt.
- The average optometry salary is surprisingly high, but many optometrists struggle with retirement savings.
- Gender disparities in income persist, with female optometrists earning less than their male counterparts.
- Work-life balance is shifting, with many optometrists preferring four-day work weeks.
- The importance of understanding financial literacy and planning for financial freedom is emphasized.
- Investing in diverse assets is crucial for long-term financial health.
- Side hustles are not common among optometrists, but filling in extra days can be more lucrative.
- The conversation encourages optometrists to seek mentorship and resources for financial education.
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