Do you want to pivot into a nonclinical career path?

In this inspiring continuation of her “Pivot Opportunities for Optometrists” series, Dr. Diane Van Staden explores the exciting new frontiers emerging for eye care professionals who are ready to evolve with the times.

As technology, artificial intelligence, and global healthcare systems transform at lightning speed, Dr Diane challenges optometrists to think beyond traditional practice.

She highlights where the world is heading - and how you can stay ahead by positioning yourself strategically in growing fields that align with your values, skills, and curiosity.

This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap for any optometrist feeling the pull toward something more impactful, meaningful, and future-ready.

• Why embracing innovation is essential to avoid being left behind

• How digital health and tele-optometry are reshaping access to care

• The expanding role of AI and data science in diagnostics and patient care

• The power of interdisciplinary and chronic care models in building fulfilling, community-focused careers

• How to make an impact in global health, nonprofits, and advocacy work

• Why corporate and industry leadership need clinicians’ voices now more than ever

• Actionable steps to begin your pivot journey with clarity and confidence

• Staying comfortable with “what’s working” can quietly hold you back from growth.

• Technology isn’t replacing clinicians - it’s creating new doors for them.

• Optometrists have transferable skills that are highly valuable in innovation, leadership, and health systems development.

• The path forward starts with self-awareness, exploration, and action.

• Take a self-assessment to identify your pivot personality type (as discussed in Part 1 - Episode 116) https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/116-beyond-the-clinic-unlocking-new-career/id1713086617?i=1000732614423

• Explore organizations and conferences in digital health, AI, and global eye care.

• Interested in mapping your next steps? 👉 Book a Strategy Call with Dr. Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

“Optometry is evolving — and so can you. Choose curiosity over fear, and let your skills open new doors for you.” – Dr. Diane Van Staden

• Website: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

• LinkedIn: Dr. Diane Van Staden

In this episode, Diane pays homage to her roots in optometry - a profession that shaped her journey and now serves as a mirror for many clinicians feeling stuck or unfulfilled. She opens up about her own moment of realization in practice - when the daily routine of eye exams began to feel like a box rather than a calling - and shares how she found purpose beyond the consulting room.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Is this all I’ll be doing for the rest of my career?” - this episode is for you.

• The Feeling of Stagnation: Many optometrists feel boxed in by the repetitive nature of clinical work. Dr Diane shares her experience of monotony and the yearning for growth and deeper impact.

• Breaking Free from Professional Identity: Attachment to clinical titles and roles can limit our sense of possibility. Know that your value extends far beyond your current job description.

• Facing the Fear of Instability: Leaving clinical practice can feel risky, but vulnerability is part of growth. Dr Diane reframes “starting over” as building from where you are.

• Lack of Visibility ≠ Lack of Options: The issue isn’t that there are no opportunities outside optometry - it’s that many don’t know where to look. This podcast exists to change that.

Dr Diane introduces the concept of personality-driven pivot paths, helping you identify roles aligned with who you are:

• The Innovator – drawn to startups, medtech, and product development

• The Educator – thrives in teaching, training, and curriculum design

• The Strategist – excels in policy, research, and consulting

• The Connector – loves relationship-building, business development, and partnerships

• The Builder – flourishes in entrepreneurship, consulting, or practice ownership

“Your optometry career is a foundation, not a box.”

There are fulfilling, purpose-driven career paths waiting beyond the exam room - and they start with understanding who you are and what you’re meant to contribute.

“We should pursue purpose beyond the paycheck.” – Dr Diane Van Staden

What part of your optometry career has felt most life-giving - and what part has felt limiting? What might that reveal about your next chapter?

If you’re ready to explore what’s next, book a strategy call with Dr Diane to get clear on your next right step so you can start mapping out your pivot plan.

👉 https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

It’s the two-year anniversary of Life Beyond Clinical Practice and in this special episode, Dr. Diane shares key insights from the Pivot Roundtable Summit and two clinicians who have successfully pivoted out of clinical optometry into careers that bring them true fulfillment.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The difference between being happy in your career and being truly fulfilled.

• Why moving past doubt and uncertainty is essential for growth.

• The power of asking: What else is possible?

• How to recognize when it’s time for a purposeful pivot—not just a convenient one.

• Why aligning your career with your purpose and values unlocks your full potential.

Resources & Next Steps:

Join the limited VIP Pivot Crash Course—a 6-week program for just 10 professionals to build your personalized pivot plan. 👉 https://lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com/main-order-page-3948

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT:

Follow our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/life-beyond-clinical-practice/

Book a Strategy Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/strategy-call

Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice

Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617

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