Why In-Person Optometry Meetings Still Matter in 2025

We’ve officially hit the halfway point of 2025 and if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably completed a chunk of your continuing education hours already. With so many convenient online options, it’s tempting to bypass in person events altogether. But today, I want to reflect on why I believe showing up in person still matters for every optometrist.

I just landed in San Diego for a conference and it reminded me of the power of in person gatherings. So in this post (and on the latest episode of the Ryan Reflects podcast) I’m sharing four key reasons you should make room in your schedule for live optometry meetings.

1. Real Networking Happens Face to Face

Social media and forums are amazing tools and I use them every day to connect with peers across the country. But nothing replaces the authenticity of an in person conversation.

I’ll never forget my first AOA meeting in Washington DC. The student bowl, exhibit hall, CE sessions, all of it ignited my passion for optometry and led to deep relationships that shaped my career. That meeting even launched my journey toward becoming AOSA Executive President.

When you attend these events you’re not just checking a CE box, you’re meeting future collaborators, mentors, and lifelong friends.

2. Hands On Learning You Can’t Get Online

Some skills need to be experienced to be fully understood. Whether you’re learning to fit scleral lenses, perform minor surgical procedures, or gain confidence with lasers, hands on education is irreplaceable.

For me, attending a live scleral lens lab changed everything. Working alongside patients and colleagues, I learned how to select, insert, troubleshoot, and refine fits in a way that online modules simply can’t replicate.

As scope of practice expands, so must our willingness to engage in in person training. It’s how we level up and continue delivering high quality care.

3. Practice Growth Conversations That Spark Action

One of the most underrated benefits of in person meetings? The organic exchange of ideas.

Whether it’s learning how to bill medical plans, grow a dry eye clinic, or hire smarter, I’ve had countless hallway and happy hour conversations that reshaped how I lead and grow my practice.

Case in point: I once helped a colleague tweak how he listed compensation in a job posting. A small shift in language led to 50 percent more applicants and ultimately the right hire. That insight? It happened over coffee at a conference.

4. Time to Recharge and Reignite Your Why

Let’s face it, healthcare can wear you down. Add family life, aging parents, and business demands, and burnout is real.

But stepping away, even for a few days, helps you breathe again. Whether it's catching up with friends, soaking up the energy of a great keynote, or sitting by the pool before flying home, in person meetings can reset your mindset and remind you why you chose optometry in the first place.

Personally, they energize me to return as a better husband, dad, clinician, and leader.

Final Thoughts on In Person Optometry Meetings

To recap, here are four reasons to still prioritize in person optometry meetings:

1. Real networking that builds meaningful relationships

2. Hands on learning that can’t be done virtually

3. Practice growth ideas that come from authentic conversations

4. A chance to recharge and reconnect with your purpose

Thanks for reading and for tuning in to Ryan Reflects. If this resonated with you, please share it with a colleague and subscribe to the podcast. Together, we can reflect and grow stronger both in optometry and in life.