Episode #59
When Opportunity Moves, Move With It with Eliza Whiteley
What would you do if you had just 48 hours to decide whether to buy an optometry practice? In this episode, we are joined by Eliza Whiteley, Owner and Optometrist at Whiteley Optometry, to unpack the unexpected opportunity that led her to independent practice. From taking a pay cut to learn alongside an ophthalmologist, to navigating a last-minute practice opportunity, supplier roadblocks, self-doubt and the realities of building a regional practice. During the conversation, Eliza also shares what it takes to build a strong team culture, why regional optometry can offer unique clinical opportunities, and how she learned to keep moving when the path ahead isn't always clear. If you're a student, early-career optometrist or aspiring practice owner, listen in for an honest look at the decisions, challenges and opportunities that can shape a career in independent eye care. All the other links and resources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://www.thefocusedview.com.au Want more support beyond this episode? Access our free resource collection here: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/resources Key Topics with Timestamps: 3:35 - Eliza Whiteley’s background before becoming a business owner 4:27 - The decision to choose optometry as a career 10:07 - Leaving home, university life, and finding confidence 14:49 - The first job that taught Eliza what really matters 18:56 - Sidestep journey to learn clinical optometry 26:44 - The LinkedIn message that changed everything 30:33 - Buying a practice within 48 hours 34:57 - Seeking opportunities and capitalising on it 41:07 - Biggest challenge in reinvigorating the business 44:54 - The value of having a business coach 48:21 - Leading through personal adversity 54:17 - Navigating self-doubt as a business owner 59:10 - Why regional optometry creates incredible opportunities 1:02:53 - Highlighting the potential of each team member 1:05:53 - One piece of advice from Eliza Learn More About Us: Website: https://www.thefocusedview.com.au/ Email: info@thefocusedview.com.au LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/the-focused-view Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefocusedview/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefocusedview Send us your thoughts about the episode Send us your thoughts about the episode Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Focused View Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, give us a 5-Star rating, and leave a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify to help us reach even more eye care professionals and build a community of innovation and see new opportunities within the optical industry. Talk with you next time!
