Podception: A Crossover Conversation with The Depth Perception Podcast

This episode was a first. Not just a Ryan Reflects first but a five person in the room no Zoom lag full on “podception” with the team behind The Depth Perception Podcast.

We recorded live with Dr. Nadia Afkhami, Dr. Jasdeep Soni, Dr. Doug Akidi, and newly minted Dr. Svetlana Nunez and what unfolded was an unfiltered, multi layered conversation about life after optometry school, navigating new beginnings, and embracing the full journey of our profession.

Here are some highlights from the crossover and why it matters.

From Fourth Year to First Year Doc: Real Talk with Dr. Nunez

Svet kicked us off with refreshing honesty: relieved to be done, a little uncertain about next steps, and totally aware that stepping into the real world of optometry means letting go of the training wheels.

“It feels good, but I also feel a little scared. Now my charts are my own, and no one is looking at them anymore.”

It was a moment that resonated deeply because we’ve all been there.

Embracing the Unknown: Advice from the Field

Each guest offered their perspective on navigating the transition from student to doctor:

• Dr. Jasdeep Soni reminded us that growth happens in discomfort: “You don’t have to do a residency to learn. You learn on the job. That’s why it’s called a practice.”

• Dr. Nadia Afkhami emphasized the value of community post graduation: “Find your people. We all need that group chat we can text when a tricky OCT pops up.”

• Dr. Doug Akidi doubled down: “You’re not alone. Even Google is a teammate sometimes.”

Contracts, Compensation, and Knowing Your Worth

The conversation shifted toward the big unknowns of post grad life: job offers, contracts, and how bonuses actually work. It was eye opening to hear new docs ask questions that still echo across every stage of our careers:

• What is “production” and how is it defined?

• How do I track what prescriptions I write?

• What if I want to buy into a practice someday?

My biggest advice? Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Ask questions. Use AI or a contract savvy friend. Better yet, hire a lawyer. And know this:

“Talk is cheap. If it’s not defined in writing, it doesn’t count.”

Student Loans and Staying Grounded

Svet shared that her combined undergrad and optometry school debt is nearing $300K. Others on the pod echoed similar realities. We discussed repayment strategies, forgiveness programs, and the emotional toll it can take:

• Dr. Nadia: “I graduated with almost $500K in debt. But every paycheck, I just chipped away.”

• Dr. Jasdeep: “These are the compounding years. Pay now, benefit later.”

• Dr. Doug Akidi: “Studying for boards while dealing with loan stress is tough but we push forward.”

The message was clear: Stay present. Stay committed. Build momentum. Small, consistent steps make big change over time.

Why I Chose the Sublease Model

I shared a bit about my own journey how I didn’t set out to pursue a sublease model, but an opportunity opened up that turned into something incredible. Today, I own a four location practice across Asheville and Charlotte NC, and we’ve grown intentionally from one location to four.

The truth? It’s not about one right way to practice. It’s about finding the model that matches your goals, lifestyle, and vision and then pouring into it.

Work Life Balance and Building with Purpose

Svet asked a powerful question: “How do you balance career, practice ownership, podcasting, and family?”

Here’s my honest answer: With intentionality and a great partner. My wife and I have worked together to build a rhythm that allows me to lead in business while staying grounded in family. Systems help. Delegation helps. Clear communication helps. But mostly? Commitment to shared goals.

Why Podcasting? Why Now?

This episode captured why I launched Ryan Reflects in the first place:

• To amplify positive stories in optometry.

• To dive deep into journeys not just highlight reels.

• To showcase the reality that success in our profession comes in many forms.

We don’t need more doom and gloom. We need more real, hopeful, helpful stories from people who’ve been there and still care.

About The Depth Perception Podcast

Their mission is powerful: to go in depth on the perceptions and misconceptions of optometry from scrubs color debates to dating while in school, to contracts, clinical confidence, and cultural barriers. They’re building bridges between students, new grads, and seasoned ODs and creating a space where honesty and levity coexist.

As Dr. Doug Akidi put it:

“We want to give light to young ODs and a new perspective to older ones, too.”

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a recent grad, a seasoned vet, or still in undergrad dreaming about your white coat, the takeaway is the same:

You are not alone. Ask for help. Ask better questions. Stay hungry, humble, and hopeful.

And don’t forget to subscribe to Ryan Reflects and Depth Perception we’ve got your back every step of the way.

Until next time,

Dr. Ryan Corte