BroadEye: An Ophthalmology Podcast

Leadership, AI, and the Future of Retina with Dr. Rishi Singh

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:49:45 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Bruno Fernandes acts as host alongside special guest co-host Dr. Carlos Quezada-Ruiz to welcome Dr. Rishi Singh, the newly appointed Chair of Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School and Mass Eye and Ear, and Chair of the Integrated Department of Ophthalmology at Mass General Brigham.

Dr. Singh joins the podcast just 42 days into his new tenure to discuss the transition from the Cleveland Clinic to one of the world's most prestigious academic institutions.

Key topics in this episode include:

The "First 90 Days" Approach: Why listening is more important than prescribing solutions when taking on a new leadership role.
The Circuitous Career Path: How taking on "unsexy" jobs like coding and documentation can build the essential skills needed for executive leadership.
AI Realism: Dr. Singh shares his cautious optimism regarding Artificial Intelligence, discussing why it won't solve basic logistical issues instantly and the dangers of relying on the "black box" without human oversight.
Retina & Drug Development: A look at the logistical burdens of Wet AMD treatment, the complexities of clinical trials, and the potential (and current limitations) of gene therapy as a "Holy Grail."
Mentorship: Why being "uncomfortable" is the best way to grow as a young ophthalmologist.

About the Guest: Dr. Rishi Singh is a vitreoretinal surgeon and physician-scientist with over 300 peer-reviewed publications. He formerly served as Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Cleveland Clinic Martin Hospitals.

Inside the FDA: Reflections from Dr. Wiley Chambers on Ophthalmic Drug Development

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 06:48:09 -0400

In this week’s episode of the BroadEYE Podcast, hosts Dr. Shawn Maloney and Dr. Carlos Quezada-Ruiz sit down with Dr. Wiley Chambers, recently retired Deputy Director of the Division of Ophthalmology at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). With over 36 years at the FDA, Dr. Chambers offers a rare insider’s perspective on regulatory science, ophthalmic drug development, and the evolution of clinical trial oversight.

This episode explores:

How ophthalmology regulation has changed over the decades
Common pitfalls in pre-IND meetings and what smart innovators do differently
Lessons learned from reviewing countless drug and biologic applications
The future of FDA guidance in areas like rare disease, gene therapy, and digital endpoints

Dr. Chambers also shares personal reflections on mentorship, scientific integrity, and his transition out of federal service after a distinguished career.

About Our Guest
Dr. Wiley Chambers served as a lead ophthalmic reviewer at the U.S. FDA from 1987 until his retirement in 2023. As Deputy Director of the Division of Ophthal

From Tactile Tech to Radical Inclusion: A Conversation with Dr. Joshua Miele

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:46:44 -0400

In this episode of the BroadEYE Podcast, we welcome inventor, researcher, and MacArthur Fellow Dr. Joshua Miele. Known for his pioneering work in accessible technology for blind users, Dr. Miele shares his journey from early advocacy to his role at Amazon’s Lab126, where he continues to develop tools that redefine independence and equity in the built and digital worlds.

Explore Dr. Joshua Miele’s work, projects, and writings on his personal site, MieleLab, which highlights his innovations in accessible design and disability inclusion. You can visit it here: www.mielelab.com

Joining as co-host is Victoria Nolan—a decorated Paralympian, accessibility advocate, and BroadEYE regular. With lived experience navigating vision loss, Victoria brings deep empathy and clarity to the discussion, drawing out the personal and systemic forces that shape accessibility work today.

Together, they explore:

The real meaning of inclusion, and why accessibility must be baked in—not bolted on.
Dr. Miele’s development of tactile maps, screen readers, and accessible media interfaces.
How institutions can move from compliance to genuine cultural transformation.

Dr. Miele also reflects on the resilience required to challenge ableist assumptions and the power of disabled leadership in tech innovation. His message is clear: access is not about charity—it’s about justice.

About Our Guests

Dr. Joshua Miele is a blind scientist, designer, and advocate for accessibility. Currently a Principal Accessibility Researcher at Amazon, he has developed technologies that empower blind and visually impaired people to navigate cities, classrooms, and digital spaces. He is a 2021 MacArthur “Genius Grant” recipient and a prominent voice for disability rights and design justice.

Want to learn more?
Pick up Dr. Miele’s powerful memoir, “Connecting the Dots: From the Blind Side”, now available on Amazon.

Victoria Nolan is a Canadian Paralympic rower, author, and passionate advocate for inclusion. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in her youth, she went on to compete internationally in rowing, including two Paralympic Games. Today, she is an influential public speaker and ambassador for breaking down barriers for people with vision loss.

Behind the Research: A Candid Conversation with Prof. Margaret Chang

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:01:45 -0400

In this episode of the BroadEYE Podcast, host Sean Maloney is joined by guest co-host Dr. Carlos Quezada-Ruiz for a deep and inspiring conversation with Dr. Margaret Chang, one of the leading figures in retina research and innovation.

From the start, Dr. Quezada-Ruiz sets the tone, describing Dr. Chang as not only a scientific leader but also a mentor, friend, and advocate for meaningful innovation. Their conversation ranges from early inspirations and pivotal career decisions to her ongoing efforts in bridging clinical research and real-world impact.

Dr. Chang shares candid thoughts on what drives her work at the intersection of patient care and technology, how she evaluates opportunities in translational research, and what keeps her motivated in the ever-evolving field of retina. Her reflections offer a rare glimpse into the mindset of a researcher who blends vision, rigor, and humility.

Whether you're a clinician, student, or someone curious about the future of ophthalmology, this episode offers both inspiration and actionable insight.

About Our Guest
Dr. Margaret Chang is an internationally recognized retina specialist and researcher. With a career spanning academia, clinical practice, and biotech innovation, she is known for her leadership in translating science into practice. A sought-after speaker and advisor, Dr. Chang continues to influence the field through both groundbreaking research and mentorship.

Pushing the Frontiers of Inherited Retinal Disease Trials with Prof. Michel Michaelides

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:28:54 -0400

In this episode of the BroadEye Podcast, hosts Shawn Maloney and Dr. Bruno Fernandes welcome Prof. Michel Michaelides, one of the most active clinical researchers in ophthalmology today. Prof. Michaelides leads a large inherited retinal disease clinic—seeing 30–40 children and adults each week—and splits her time between patient care, advanced imaging research, and steering more than ten ongoing clinical trials.

Why This Matters
Inherited retinal diseases affect hundreds of thousands worldwide, and for most there is still no approved treatment. Over the past two years, we’ve seen multiple Phase 1/2 gene-therapy trials move into registrational studies, alongside novel antioxidant approaches and AI-driven biomarkers. Today’s conversation cuts through the jargon to give you a clear picture of where the field stands—and where it’s headed.

Key Takeaways

Beyond RPE65: While Luxturna paved the way, newer AAV-based therapies for X-linked RP (RPGR) and other targets are now in Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials, with early data showing promising safety and efficacy.
Imaging & Function: Prof. Michaelides is pioneering next-generation retinal imaging devices and novel functional assays to capture meaningful changes in vision—critical for shortening trial timelines.
Antioxidant Strategies: High-dose N-acetylcysteine trials are under way, offering a non-viral approach to slow photoreceptor degeneration across multiple genetic subtypes.
AI in Stratification: Machine-learning algorithms on retinal scans can help predict progression rate and identify the best candidates for specific therapies, improving both trial design and patient outcomes.
Balancing Dose & Safety: Finding the sweet spot between transgene expression and immune activation remains a core challenge—Prof. Michaelides shares lessons learned from dose-escalation cohorts.
Phase 3 & Beyond: With over a hundred patients enrolled in pivotal studies, we’re closing in on potential approvals—but long-term follow-up and real-world evidence will determine ultimate impact.

About the Guest
Prof. Michelle Michaelides is a clinician-scientist specializing in inherited retinal diseases. She leads dedicated adult and pediatric IRD clinics, oversees the development of advanced imaging and functional biomarkers, and serves as principal investigator on over ten clinical trials spanning gene therapies, antioxidant agents, and AI-guided stratification tools. Prof. Michaelides regularly lectures at international conferences and collaborates with industry and academic partners to accelerate the translation of research into real-world treatments.

Revolutionizing Retinal Gene Therapy with Dr. Arshad Khanani

Thu, 29 May 2025 10:30:39 -0400

In this latest episode of the BroadEye podcast, hosts Shawn Maloney and Dr. Bruno Fernandes sit down with Dr. Arshad M. Khanani, MD, MA, FASRS, a pioneer in vitreoretinal gene-therapy trials and Managing Partner at Sierra Eye Associates. Dr. Khanani shares front-line insights into how genetic medicines are reshaping treatment for inherited and degenerative retinal diseases, highlighting both the promise and the practical challenges of bringing one-time therapies to patients.

Why Gene Therapy Matters Today
Recent years have seen the first US approvals of in-vivo retinal gene therapies, beginning with voretigene neparvovec (Luxturna) for RPE65-mediated inherited retinal dystrophy in December 2017. These one-off treatments offer durable vision improvements where none existed before, but they also raise questions of long-term safety, vector delivery, and equitable access.

Dr. Khanani’s Journey
With over a decade leading surgical trials in sustained-delivery and viral-vector therapies, Dr. Khanani has overseen early human work on next-generation agents—including subretinal injections of AAV vectors and novel capsid designs. He describes lessons learned from Phase 1 safety studies through global registrational trials, emphasizing iterative “vector evolution” to boost efficacy and minimize inflammation.

Key Takeaways

Vector Optimization: Directed-evolution platforms are accelerating discovery of capsids that target photoreceptors more precisely, reducing off-target toxicity.
Durability vs. Dose: Striking the right balance between transgene expression and immune activation remains central—higher doses don’t always equal better outcomes.
Regulatory Pathways: While Luxturna set a precedent, streamlined FDA and EMA guidance on trial endpoints and real-world evidence will shape the next wave of approvals.
Cost & Access: Innovative payment models (e.g., outcomes-based installment plans) are emerging to address the multi-hundred-thousand-dollar price tags of these therapies.

About the Guest
Dr. Arshad M. Khanani, MD, MA, FASRS, is a vitreoretinal surgeon, researcher, and Managing Partner at Sierra Eye Associates in Reno, Nevada. He holds dual degrees in medicine and medical humanities from the University of Nevada, Reno, and is a fellow of the American Society of Retina Specialists. Dr. Khanani has authored over 100 peer-reviewed articles on retinal disease and served as principal investigator on more than 30 clinical trials of gene and cell therapies for inherited and age-related retinal disorders. He also lectures internationally on surgical innovation, vector design, and the economics of advanced ocular treatments.

Global Advocacy for the Blind with Marc Workman, CEO of World Blind Union

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:23:55 -0400

Join hosts Dr. Shawn Maloney and Dr. Bruno Fernandes on the BroadEYE Podcast as they sit down with Marc Workman, CEO of the World Blind Union. In this engaging episode, Marc shares insights into the WBU’s mission to advocate for blind and partially sighted individuals globally, from influencing UN policies to empowering local organizations. Dive into discussions on accessibility, the transformative potential of AI, and the impact of the Marrakesh Treaty. Marc also opens up about his personal journey with retinitis pigmentosa and the challenges of global travel as a blind advocate. A must-listen for anyone interested in disability advocacy and inclusive technology!

NAC Attack Clinical Trial: Exploring Antioxidants and Retinitis Pigmentosa with Dr. Peter Campochiaro

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 12:25:16 -0400

In this episode of the BroadEYE Podcast, hosts Shawn Maloney and Dr. Bruno Fernandez dive into a fascinating discussion with Dr. Peter Campochiaro, a clinician-scientist at Johns Hopkins’ Wilmer Eye Institute, about the potential of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) as a treatment for retinitis pigmentosa (RP).

Dr. Campochiaro shares how his research journey began with unexpected findings in mouse models, revealing how excess oxygen in the retina—caused by the loss of rod photoreceptors in RP—leads to oxidative stress that damages surviving cone cells. This discovery paved the way for the NAC Attack clinical trial, a phase 3 study exploring whether NAC, a potent antioxidant, can slow cone degeneration and preserve vision in RP patients.

The conversation covers the science behind NAC, its safety profile, and why it was chosen over other antioxidants like glutathione or CoQ10. Shawn, who lives with late-stage RP, brings a personal perspective, while Bruno, an ophthalmologist, digs into the broader implications for retinal diseases. Dr. Campochiaro also addresses practical challenges, like NAC’s over-the-counter availability versus its regulated use, and cautions against self-medication without medical supervision.

The episode offers hope for RP patients while emphasizing the importance of awaiting trial results, expected in a couple of years, to confirm NAC’s efficacy and long-term safety.

Leading with Vision: Angela Bonfanti's Journey to Transforming Accessibility at CNIB

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 15:57:38 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Angela Bonfanti, the first female CEO and President of the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB). Angela shares her personal and professional journey, the challenges and opportunities of leading a 106-year-old organization, and her vision for improving accessibility and inclusion for individuals with vision loss in Canada.

About the Guest

Angela Bonfanti, the CEO and President of CNIB, is a trailblazer in the accessibility and inclusion space. With over 13 years of dedicated service at CNIB in various leadership roles, Angela became the organization’s leader in 2023, marking her 13th anniversary with the institute. She brings a deeply personal connection to her work, having grown up witnessing her father's journey with vision loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa. Angela's leadership is defined by her commitment to systemic change, grassroots advocacy, and empowering individuals with vision loss through innovative programs and community-driven solutions.

About the CNIB

The Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) is Canada’s leading organization dedicated to empowering people impacted by blindness and vision loss. Established in 1918, CNIB supports individuals across the country with programs focusing on education, employment, accessibility, and advocacy. From guide dog training to groundbreaking virtual services, CNIB aims to create a world without barriers for people living with vision loss. Under Angela Bonfanti's leadership, the CNIB continues to advance its mission of inclusivity and accessibility through collaboration and innovative strategies.

Revolutionizing Retinal Gene Therapy: A Conversation with Dr. Carlos Quezada-Ruiz

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 12:40:26 -0500

Dr. Carlos Quezada-Ruiz is a Vitreoretinal Surgeon and Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the Instituto de Oftalmologia Fundación Conde de Valenciana’s Retina Department in Mexico City. He also serves as the Senior Vice President of Clinical Research and Development and Therapeutic Area Head (Ophthalmology) at 4DMT, leading early- and late-stage clinical development teams focused on treating neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), and geographic atrophy (GA).

In addition to his active clinical practice, Dr. Quezada-Ruiz has spent the past decade as a Drug Developer, beginning at Genentech–Roche. There, he worked on the Ophthalmology management team as Group Medical Director of Clinical Science (Product Development). During his tenure, he led the design, execution, and analysis of U.S. and global registrational trials for multiple retinal diseases, including the nAMD global clinical development program for VABYSMO, resulting in U.S. and worldwide approvals. He also led the global clinical science team for SUSVIMO, supporting its initial global filing, FDA approval, and launch in nAMD; successfully navigated the U.S. voluntary recall and commercial relaunch; and oversaw the phase 3 DR/DME registrational program through execution, readout, and filing with the FDA in early 2024. Previously, Dr. Quezada-Ruiz led Medical Affairs efforts for the U.S. launch of Lucentis Prefilled Syringe (PFS) and the myopic choroidal neovascularization indication for LUCENTIS.

Furthermore, Dr. Quezada-Ruiz contributed to diversity and inclusion strategies in the Ophthalmology Franchise—such as the AAO MOM program—and advanced personalized healthcare in retina at Genentech by helping design and develop predictive models that use machine learning and large language models to support both drug development and clinical practice.

Dr. Quezada-Ruiz is a Fellow of the American Society of Retina Specialists, with over 13 years of clinical practice and research in vitreoretinal diseases and surgery. He earned his M.D. from Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila in his hometown of Torreón, Mexico. He completed fellowships in Vitreoretinal Surgery, Ocular Pathology Research, and Vitreoretinal Surgery Research at Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, McGill University, and the California Retina Research Foundation, respectively. In 2023, he completed an Executive Education program (CIBE) at Columbia Business School.

His accolades include the 2023 Roche Award of Excellence in recognition of outstanding contributions to Roche Pharmaceuticals (“Vabysmo and Beyond”), Genentech’s 2023 Medical Excellence Award, the 2019 American Society of Retina Specialists Senior Honor Award, the 2016 ASRS Honor Award, the 2013 Gillingham Pan-American Fellowship by the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology and The Retina Research Foundation of Houston, Texas, and the 2013 Leonard Ellen Ocular Pathology Award by the Royal Victoria Hospital Foundation.

On a personal note, Dr. Quezada-Ruiz is married to Cecy—formerly a marketing specialist at The Coca-Cola Company—and they have three children and a white Labrador, Mia, who is blind from retinal dystrophy. He is also a retired martial artist, philosopher, and health enthusiast.

About 4DMT
4DMT is a clinical-stage genetic medicines company focused on harnessing the full potential of genetic therapies for large market diseases, particularly in ophthalmology (wet AMD and DME) and pulmonology (cystic fibrosis lung disease).

Therapeutic Vector Evolution (TVE): 4DMT’s proprietary vector platform leverages the Nobel Prize–winning technology of directed evolution to create customized viral vectors. This approach propels a diverse product pipeline aimed at revolutionizing medicine with potentially curative therapies for millions of patients.

Leading Change in Eye Health - A Conversation with Jason Menzo (FFB)

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 07:42:45 -0500

In this episode, we sit down with Jason Menzo, CEO of the Foundation Fighting Blindness, to discuss his unique journey from the pharmaceutical industry to leading one of the world’s most impactful organizations in eye health. Jason shares insights on his career transition into the nonprofit sector and his commitment to advancing the Foundation’s mission. We explore groundbreaking initiatives like My Retina Tracker, a resource bridging patients to clinical trials, and dive into the Foundation’s bold vision for future treatments, including the potential of eye transplants. Plus, hear how the Foundation is fueling innovation by investing in promising small eye care companies and funding research to combat inherited retinal diseases.

Season 2 Premiere: Reconnecting and Exploring New Horizons with Shawn and Bruno

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 11:05:35 -0400

In the exciting launch of Season 2 of the Broad Eye podcast, we explore the latest developments in eye care and share our personal journeys over the past couple of years. This season will focus on highlighting inspiring individuals and organizations that are making significant strides in ophthalmology, aiming to bridge knowledge gaps and enhance access to eye health. Bruno discusses his innovative project, "Eye Station," a free eye screening initiative located in a busy mall in Brazil, designed to provide easier access to eye care screenings and education for the public. This social project aims to bridge the gap in eye care accessibility that the public sector struggles to meet, allowing individuals to receive essential screenings without the barriers of cost or inconvenience. Meanwhile, Shawn shares his involvement with several non-profit organizations, including the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) and the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB), as well as his exciting new book project co-authored with Paralympic athlete and educator Victoria Nolan. This book aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for individuals newly diagnosed with vision loss, filling a crucial gap in available information. Together, we reflect on our experiences and the challenges we've faced, setting the stage for a season filled with compelling stories and expert insights that underscore the transformative power of accessible eye health.

Navigating and overcoming challenges of everyday life as a visually impaired person - Dagmar Jamieson

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 12:26:01 -0400

In this episode our guest is Dagmar Jamieson, a mentor and life coach at CNIB. We discuss the challenges in everyday life as a visually impaired person, how that affects our social skills, are there any professional limitations and how does Dagmar cope with all those challenges.

Improving the way we manage glaucoma patients - Ariel Cao

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 12:50:51 -0400

Ariel Cao is the president/CEO and co-founder of Injectsense. We talked about the current challenges in the management of patients with glaucoma, still one of the major causes of blindness worldwide. Cao and his team developed an implantable intraocular device that can continuously monitor intraocular pressure. By providing accurate, clinically actionable information, physicians will be able to individualize therapeutic interventions for each patient, properly assess the effectiveness of glaucoma therapy, and ultimately avoid blindness.

Differences between generic and branded eye drops - Dr. Andrew Meagher

Thu, 09 Jun 2022 13:43:38 -0400

In this episode, we review differences in regulatory requirements for branded and generic therapeutic agents, and how these differences can manifest in eye care. Dr. Andrew Meagher sheds light on the subject using IOP-lowering glaucoma drops as an example.

Drawing on his experience in the clinic and keen attention to scientific detail, Dr. Meagher shares knowledge as Associate Professor at the Salus University, School of Optometry.

Instilling the call for humanitarian service - Dr. Bradley Farris

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 09:42:02 -0400

In this episode, we had the chance to talk with Dr. Farris about his charitable work in eye care both in the United States and internationally. For the past 20 years, he has led a team annually from Dean McGee Eye Institute to develop academic exchange and work with the local residency-training programs in China. He has done the same in Africa for the past 11 years.

Dr. Farris is the 2021 recipient of the Outstanding Humanitarian Service Award by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Professor Emeritus of Ophthalmology at the University of Oklahoma and Dean McGee Eye Institute.

From the operating room to the C-suite in pharma - Dr. Jay Duker

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 13:22:39 -0400

Dr. Duker is an accomplished ophthalmologist, that is now the Chief Operating Officer of EyePoint Pharma, a biotech company that develops sustained-release medications to treat serious ocular disorders. We talked about his career path and what motivated him to move from a clinical to an executive position. For the 21 years before he took the COO position at EyePoint, Dr. Duker was the Director of the New England Eye Center (NEEC) and Professor and Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology at Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. Dr. Duker received his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College. He completed a residency and fellowship in vitreoretinal diseases and ocular oncology at the Wills Eye Hospital.

Art beyond what we can see - Dr. John Kennedy

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 09:18:38 -0400

What might come as a surprise to most people is that the visually impaired can draw!

Dr. Kennedy is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto and is especially interested in the theory of pictures drawn by people who are blind. The key idea is that lines in outline drawings mean the same thing to the sighted and people who are blind -- edges of surfaces, such as profiles of people and corners of cubes. These shapes are understood via touch as well as vision. We also talked about how drawing kits are now made available free to all children who are blind in the US and his book on the topic: Drawing and the Blind: Pictures to Touch.

Flying Eye Hospital, Telemedicine, and AI to cure blindness - Dr. Hunter Cherwek

Wed, 06 Apr 2022 06:43:38 -0400

In this episode, we learned how Orbis International is much more than a flying hospital. Using the latest technologies such as AI and telemedicine, Dr. Hunter Cherwek is leading a global initiative to train ophthalmologists and help eliminate avoidable blindness in low-resource communities.

Google’s Approach to Eyecare - Dr. Christian Gutierrez

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 12:35:16 -0400

Christian is the Head of Digital Therapeutics and Director of Business Development at Twenty Twenty Therapeutics, a joint venture between Verily Life Sciences, an Alphabet company, and Santen, a leading Japanese pharmaceutical company. We talked about the company’s vision to eliminate preventable blindness with technology that empowers patients to care for their own vision between doctors’ visits.

Fighting Cancer, Playing Music, and Promoting Science - Dr. Gail Seigel

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 06:12:43 -0400

Dr. Seigel is an accomplished researcher, helping to develop more efficient ways to treat retinoblastoma. We also had the chance to chat about her role in the Rochester NY March for Science, a global movement that aims to promote science for the common good and equitable access to scientific education and opportunities.

The Current State Of Research For New Therapies To Treat Retinitis Pigmentosa - Dr. Bill Stell

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 08:25:36 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Bill Stell gives a comprehensive overview of the most promising clinical research and potential treatments for inherited retinal diseases, including Retinitis Pigmentosa. Dr. Stell further explores avenues for retired researchers and clinicians to continue helping patients and mentoring young professionals.

How Virtual Reality Is Being Used To Treat Amblyopia - Dr. Dennis Levi

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 08:43:36 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Dennis Levi provides an in-depth overview of the causes and treatment options for patients with Amblyopia. Dr. Levi highlights how virtual reality and perceptual learning are becoming increasingly important in optimizing stereovision.

How CRISPR Is Being Used To Treat Blinding Eye Diseases - Dr. Mark Pennesi

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 07:33:13 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Mark Pennesi provides an overview of inherited retinal dystrophies and how CRISPR is being used to edit DNA in the eyes of patients. Dr. Pennesi further shares recent research findings from a clinical trial using CRISPR to treat patients with Leber Congenital Amaurosis.

Living Life At The Edge Of Your Comfort Zone - Anthony Ferraro

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 12:40:19 -0500

In this episode, Anthony Ferraro shares the story of his journey from being diagnosed with Leber Congenital Amaurosis — a rare and blinding eye disease — to training for the 2024 Paralympic Games. In recent years, Anthony has gained an incredible following on social media as an inspiring athlete, amateur musician, and overall beacon of positivity.

How The Foundation Fighting Blindness Is Accelerating Research and Therapies For Blinding Retinal Diseases - Dr. Jacque Duncan

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 14:48:30 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Jacque Duncan provides an overview of how The Foundation Fighting Blindness is funding critical research that could impact millions of patients with inherited and degenerative retinal diseases. Dr. Duncan further describes her research focus which aims to preserve vision and stimulate visual function.

The Evolution Of Managing Corneal Diseases, The Cleveland Eye Bank Foundation, and More - Dr. Allen Roth

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 08:07:05 -0500

In this episode, Ophthalmologist Dr. Allen Roth gives an overview of corneal disease management and how these practices have changed in recent years. Dr. Roth also discusses his role as President of The Cleveland Eye Bank Foundation, highlighting cutting-edge research supported by the Foundation and explaining how the community can get involved.

The Global Issue of Refractive Error - Dr. Arthur Cummings

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 11:24:02 -0500

Uncorrected refractive errors (i.e. myopia) represents almost half of the 2.2 billion people who are visually impaired worldwide. Dr. Cummings believes one of the best ways to address the problem is through refractive surgery. He founded The College of Refractive Surgery with the goal of helping more doctors, and bring the benefits of refractive surgery to more people.

A Renaissance Man on a Mission to Fight Blindness - Bjorn Stenvers

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 12:49:56 -0500

Mr. Stenvers works as a Director at the Eye Care Foundation while also working for the International Council of Museums, advising at UNESCO World Heritage and teaching at the Amsterdam University of the Arts and the Presidential program for Ministers of RANEPA in Russia. In this episode, we discuss how those seemingly distant roles are actually somehow related, and the skills he acquired during the years are being used to help the +200 million people with visual disabilities in developing countries.

Helping the Visually Impaired Join the Workforce - Kirk Adams

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 11:11:34 -0500

As the president and CEO of the American Foundation for the Blind, Dr. Kirk Adams is a leader in the field of blindness and is committed to pursuing strategic relationships with peers, policymakers, employers, and other influencers to create a more inclusive and accessible world for the more than 20 million Americans with vision loss.

Inventing Optical Coherence Tomography: A Story Of Curiosity and Collaboration - Dr. Joel Schuman

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 11:44:58 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Joel Schuman gives a detailed overview of how a team of collaborators from diverse academic backgrounds developed Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), a technology that was a leap forward in the field of Ophthalmology. Dr. Schuman further explores how curiosity lies at the center of his motivation to continue discovering and innovating even after co-developing a breakthrough medical technology.

The Ophthalmology Foundation: Educating a Global Community Of Leaders and Eye Care Professionals - Dr. David Pyott

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 09:03:58 -0500

In this episode, Dr. David Pyott shares insights and lessons learned as the former Chairman of the Board and CEO of Allergan. David further details the genesis of The Ophthalmology Foundation, highlighting the importance of education and maintaining a global perspective in order to improve eye care and advance the preservation and restoration of vision for all.

No Need For Sight When You Have a Vision - Lex Gillette

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 10:11:25 -0500

Lex Gillette, five-time Paralympian and 2020 Tokyo silver medalist in long jump, shares his experience from a young boy with sudden vision loss to world-class athlete. Lex gives an overview of his training, the importance of having the right mindset, and how anybody with a vision can do more than most dream is possible.

Spark Therapeutics: Gene Therapy For Inherited Retinal Disease - Jay Newman

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 10:29:23 -0500

Jay Newman, Head of U.S. Commercial at Spark Therapeutics provides a detailed overview of gene therapy for inherited retinal disease. Jay discusses the challenges associated with gaining regulatory approval and how this approval has impacted the company and the low vision community at large.

Low Vision, Building a Successful Career, and The Evolution Of Adaptive Technologies - Dr. Mahadeo Sukhai

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 12:08:50 -0500

Dr. Mahadeo Sukhai shares his experience as a visually impaired student who was fast tracked through high school and entered university at age 15, highlighting the numerous challenges and the benefit of a growth mindset. Dr. Sukhai further describes new initiatives in low vision research and shares advice for people who are striving for success in life and work while dealing with a visual impairment.

Stem Cell Therapies, Retinitis Pigmentosa, and Pathways Of Care In Ophthalmology - Dr. Brian Ballios

Sat, 20 Nov 2021 16:39:59 -0500

Ophthalmologist and vision science researcher Dr. Brian Ballios provides an overview of stem cell therapies for inherited retinal diseases, including Retinitis Pigmentosa. Dr. Ballios further discusses the importance of genetic testing, highlighting that knowledge of a patient's underlying mutation is often required to access clinical trials and approved therapies.

How The Retina Changes With Age and What You Can Do About It - Dr. Yves Sauvé

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 09:03:19 -0500

In this episode, Ophthalmology and visual science researcher Dr. Yves Sauvé gives an overview of how vision works in the eye and in the brain, highlighting normal and pathological changes in these structures that can alter the visual experience. Dr. Sauvé further describes modifiable lifestyle factors that can influence vision as we age, as well as various related topics that he covers in depth in his book, "Feeling the Meaning Of Life".

Clinical Trials In Ophthalmology: One Doctor’s Unique Perspective - Dr. Carlos Quezada Ruiz

Fri, 05 Nov 2021 10:50:07 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Carlos Quezada Ruiz describes the evolution and challenges of clinical trials from his unique perspective as an active retina specialist who also oversees modules of some of the world’s most impactful clinical trials in Ophthalmology in his role as Senior Medical Director at Genentech. Dr. Quezada Ruiz further highlights the importance of a patient-centric approach for everyone working in the field of Ophthalmology, including industry professionals, basic scientists, and clinicians.

An Insider Perspective Into the World of Scientific Publishing - Dr. Arun Singh

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 11:10:38 -0400

For this episode, Bruno was joined by Dr. Rubens Belfort as a guest editor to have a candid conversation with Dr. Arun Singh. Dr. Singh has more than 250 articles published in peer reviewed journals. He is the editor of British Journal of Ophthalmology, and a manuscript reviewer for 14 national and international journals. We dove into the intricacies of scientific publications, discussing what works, and what can be improved.

http://broadeye.org/singh/

Cornea and External Disease, the Importance of Great Mentors and Giving Back - Dr. Allan Slomovic

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 11:28:05 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Allan Slomovic provides a high level overview of current and emerging therapies for corneal and ocular surface diseases. Dr. Slomovic further shares stories of mentorship and philanthropy, as well as a very personal experience with COVID-19 as a patient himself.

More information about the guest here.

COVID-19 and The Low Vision Community: Perspectives Of A Congenitally Blind Researcher - Dr. Mahadeo Sukhai

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 11:34:23 -0400

Dr. Sukhai shares his journey from congenitally blind newborn to visually impaired biomedical researcher with a deep passion for science and inclusion. Dr. Sukhai further highlights recent research data surrounding the impact of COVID-19 on people with low vision.

http://broadeye.org/mahadeo/

How the Glaucoma Research Foundation Has Impacted Patient Care For More Than Four Decades - Tom Brunner

Tue, 12 Oct 2021 10:21:51 -0400

Tom Brunner, President and CEO of Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF), shares the history of ophthalmic laser technology and how he ended up leading a global organization dedicated to funding promising Glaucoma research. Tom further provides a detailed overview of Glaucoma onset and progression, highlighting risk factors and the importance of early diagnosis. Some of the most significant clinical trials in Glaucoma in recent decades—funded by GRF—are also discussed.

http://broadeye.org/brunner/

Corneal Stem Cell Treatment, Paralympic Skiing and Blindness VS Low Vision - Mike May

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 08:58:52 -0400

Mike May is the Chief Evangelist at Goodmaps, founder of the Sendero group, a paralympic World Record holder in downhill skiing, and a serial entrepreneur who regained some vision after 43 years of blindness thanks to a novel corneal stem cell therapy. Mike discusses the impact of regaining some vision, highlighting the need for a diverse skill set to thrive in business, sports and life.

http://broadeye.org/mikemay/

Blind Chess: Stories From Three Time US Champion Jim Thoune

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 06:43:28 -0400

In this episode, Jim Thoune describes his journey from a young boy who lost his vision due to Retinoblastoma to becoming a world class blind chess competitor. Jim discusses highlights from his career, how parents can help their blind children succeed, his passion for scuba diving, and much more.

http://broadeye.org/thoune/

Diabetic Retinopathy: Causes, Risk Factors, Treatment, and The Importance Of Early Diagnosis - Dr. Charles Wykoff

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 13:45:32 -0400

In this episode, Surgical and Medical Retina Specialist Dr. Charles Wykoff gives a detailed overview of Diabetic Retinopathy, with a particular focus on the importance of screening and early diagnosis to prevent blindness. Dr. Wykoff further discusses current treatments and therapies, his group's latest research findings, and how technology is changing the landscape for Diabetic Retinopathy and other ophthalmic diseases.

http://broadeye.org/wykoff/

Retinal Disease: New Horizons In the Bio-chemistry Of Vision - Dr. Stephen Redenti

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 09:21:40 -0400

Dr. Stephen Redenti, Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at The City University of New York, provides an overview of critical signaling processes that can shed light on retinal health and the origins of degenerative retinal disease. Dr. Redenti explores how decades of research into the biochemistry of tumor metastasis is now informing novel therapeutic approaches that aim to improve the success of stem cell therapies for Retinitis Pigmentosa and other ophthalmic diseases.

Age-related Macular Degeneration, Supplementation, and Key Research Findings in the Field of Ocular Nutrition - Prof. John Nolan

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 18:13:26 -0400

Professor John Nolan, Founder and Director of the Nutrition Research Centre Ireland (NRCI), explores the current research in the field of ocular nutrition, highlighting the potential for three specific carotenoids to significantly impact vision in patients with Age-related Macular Degeneration as well as the general adult population. Prof. Nolan further discusses why better regulatory oversight is needed for ocular health supplements, as well as key research findings that every optometrist and ophthalmologist should understand.

Skiing Blind: Mac Marcoux On The Need For Speed, Chasing Medals and Having Fun

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 07:28:52 -0400

Macmilton "Mac" Marcoux is a Canadian Paralympic alpine skier who has collected many Olympic medals and world titles at only 24 years. He started skiing at the age of four but started to lose his sight due to Stargardt disease and became legally blind in 2007. That never stopped him from continuing to pursue his passions and dreams.

Amblyopia, Strabismus, and VR-based Visual Fields - Dr. Benjamin T. Backus From Vivid Vision

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 17:18:56 -0400

In this episode, Vivid Vision's Chief Science Officer Dr. Benjamin T. Backus explains how his company's technology has been used to treat Amblyopia and Strabismus using custom-built software integrated into portable VR headsets. Dr. Backus further highlights an unmet need for at-home visual field tests and how Vivid Vision is making this a reality.

Low Vision and Technology; How eSight Is Bridging the Gap To Bring Sight To the Visually Imparied

Fri, 20 Aug 2021 16:13:45 -0400

In this episode, eSight user and coach Richard Weatherford and company CCO Brian McCollum provide an overview of eSight technology and how it can be life-changing for people with poor central vision due to degenerative retinal disease. The guests explore use cases for the technology, how the core offering has evolved over time, and how people living with low vision can connect with the company to demo the latest model.

The evolution and Future Of Accessibility At Google - Laura Allen

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 11:00:25 -0400

Laura Allen - Head of Strategy, Accessibility, and Disability Inclusion at Google - shares her journey from 10-year-old child with unexplained vision loss to a leader and force for change in the world of accessible technology. Laura further highlights some of the accessibility initiatives at Google that are close to heart as well as what she believes the future of accessibility will look like in the years ahead.

Glaucoma: Causes, Risk Factors and Treatment Approaches - Dr. Hady Saheb

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 11:44:21 -0400

Dr. Hady Saheb, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and Director of Glaucoma Fellowship at McGill University, offers a detailed overview of Glaucoma. This informative discussion covers Glaucoma causes and risk factors, as well as a deep dive into the evolution of disease diagnosis and management.

Choroideremia, Ocular Genetics and the Importance of Great Mentors - Dr. Ian MacDonald

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 08:43:42 -0400

Dr. Ian MacDonald, Professor Emeritus in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Alberta, provides a detailed overview of the current state of genetic therapies for degenerative retinal diseases. Dr. MacDonald further describes Choroideremia, including disease pathology, prognosis, and potential treatment avenues. Finally, Dr. MacDonald explains his reaction to being nominated for a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Canadian College of Medical Geneticists, pointing out some of his own remarkable mentors throughout his career.

http://broadeye.org/ian/

Retinitis Pigmentosa - The Potential for Mutation-Independent Therapy - Dr. José-Alain Sahel

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 11:56:43 -0400

In this episode, we interview Dr. José-Alain Sahel, the chair and Distinguished Professor of the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, director of the UPMC Eye Center, and the Eye and Ear
Foundation Endowed Chair of Ophthalmology. Dr. Sahel provides an in-depth overview of optogenetics, including the current state of research and clinical trials. A detailed discussion about his team's recent publication in
Nature Medicine highlights the potential sight-restoring impact that novel optogenetic therapies can have for patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa and potentially other degenerative retinal conditions.

http://broadeye.org/sahel/

Strabismus, Amblyopia and the Rise Of Telemedicine In Pediatric Ophthalmology - Dr. Sudha Nallasamy

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 11:44:37 -0400

Dr. Sudha Nallasamy, Assistant Professor at Keck School of Medicine of USC and Pediatric Ophthalmologist at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, gives a detailed overview of strabismus, including why early diagnosis is critical. Dr. Nallasamy further describes her recent publication that highlights the reproducibility of clinical findings and management plans using telemedicine in a pediatric ophthalmology setting.

http://broadeye.org/nallasamy/

Rare Ophthalmic Diseases and the Ability to Collect, Manage and Share Patient Health Data - MyEyeSite

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 15:38:28 -0400

Dr. Andrew Webster, Lead of Genetics Service at Moorfields Eye Hospital and Chair of Molecular Ophthalmology at University College London, and Nick Nettleton, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Loft Digital, provide a detailed overview of how MyEyeSite is changing the information landscape for rare ophthalmic diseases. The guests highlight how the MyEyeSite platform is bridging information gaps and enabling for better patient care while simultaneously creating a vast repository of information for researchers of rare ophthalmic diseases.

http://broadeye.org/myeyesite/

How Ophthalmology and General Medicine Intersect - Dr. Caitlin Reimer and Ophthalmologist Dr. Debra-Meghan Sanft

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 09:40:14 -0400

Guest interviewer Dr. Debra-Meghan Sanft interviews Dr. Caitlin Reimer to discuss the relationships, interactions, and overlap between an Ophthalmologist and a Family Doctor. They deep dive into Thyroid Disease, Diabetes, headaches, and how the eye can tell us what is going on in the rest of our body. http://broadeye.org/caitlin/

Color Blindness and What Patients Can Do - Mark Mattison-Shupnick from Enchroma

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 10:13:08 -0400

Mark Mattison-Shupnick, master optician and COO at Enchroma, explains the different types of color deficiency, genetic or acquired, and its prevalence. Because colors are one of the first things we learn, kids with an undiagnosed condition can really struggle. We further discussed how special glasses with color filtering lenses can help them see colors again.

https://broadeye.org/enchroma

Uveitis, Autoimmune Retinitis and the Reality Of Ocular Inflammatory Conditions - Dr. Enzo Castiglione

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 13:57:41 -0400

Dr. Enzo Castiglione, Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Chile, shares a detailed overview of Uveitis, including causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches. Dr. Castiglione also provides an overview of Autoimmune Retinitis, a rare disease in which the patient’s own immune system attacks retinal proteins, leading to loss of vision.

Retinopathy of Prematurity, Early Development of Vision, and What Parents Need To Know - Dr. Evangelina Esposito

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 07:53:53 -0400

Dr. Evangelina Esposito MD, ChM, an Argentina-based Retina Specialist, and Professor of Ophthalmology, shares a detailed overview of how the vision processing develops from infancy through adulthood, highlighting important signs and symptoms of ocular conditions in children that parents should understand. Dr. Esposito further explains the causes, treatment, and prognosis of Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Eye Care: The Critical Role of Ophthalmic Technicians - Ashley Alexander

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 20:28:37 -0400

Ashley Alexander, a certified ophthalmic technician based in Ontario, Canada, discusses the art and science of working with patients in an ophthalmology clinic. Ashley describes the various tests performed by an ophthalmic technician, lessons learned from working in a low vision clinic, and the benefits and drawbacks of working in private practice.

Helping the Blind To See: Stories and Lessons Learned - Dr. Robert Greenberg

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 19:30:30 -0400

Dr. Robert Greenberg, current Chairman and CEO of the Alfred Mann Foundation and former CEO of Second Sight Medical Products, shares his experience at the helm of one of the world’s most innovative medical device companies. Dr. Greenberg discusses lessons learned while working at the FDA and the Alfred Mann Foundation, as well as challenges faced while building the world’s most advanced retinal implant to treat patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa.

Retinal Detachments, Corneal Ulcers and Other Ocular Emergencies – Dr. Debra-Meghan Sanft

Mon, 31 May 2021 13:36:13 -0400

Ophthalmologist Dr. Debra-Meghan Sanft shares a basic overview of the causes, risk factors, and treatments associated with an array of ocular emergencies, including corneal ulcers, acute angle closure glaucoma, vascular occlusion, giant cell arteritis, retinal tears and detachment, and ocular trauma.

Low Vision Rehabilitation, Deafblind International and Creating a Continuum Of Care In Ophthalmology – Dr. Walter Wittich

Tue, 25 May 2021 10:31:27 -0400

Dr. Walter Wittich discusses his role as chair of Deafblind International Research Network, highlighting the purpose of the organization, and how it is serving people across the globe. Dr. Wittich further explores the realm of low vision rehabilitation, including his journey in the field, current gaps in communication and training, and what the future of the field might look like and the unique challenges it may face.

Retinal Oximetry For Early Diagnosis - Dr. Patrick Sauvageau From Zilia

Tue, 18 May 2021 11:15:20 -0400

Dr. Patrick Sauvageau, OD, MSc, CEO & Co-Founder of Zilia, a medical company, discusses how retinal oximetry can revolutionize eye care and prevent vision loss, as well as provide an opportunity for early detection of systemic diseases, reduce healthcare costs, and improve the quality of life of patients.

Echolocation: The Art and Science of Navigating With Sound - Dr. Lore Thaler

Fri, 14 May 2021 12:55:10 -0400

Dr. Lore Thaler, Lecturer at Durham University in the Department of Psychology, shares stories about the science of echolocation, including insights from her own research involving brain imaging. Dr. Thaler discusses how anybody can learn to echolocate, why certain types of sounds are more commonly used, how her research is shaping our understanding of the way humans learn, and much more.

Liquid Biopsies, Ocular Tumours and the Future of Personalized Medicine - Dr. Julie Burnier

Mon, 10 May 2021 13:40:38 -0400

Dr. Julie Burnier, Assistant Professor of Oncology and Pathology at McGill university, explains how liquid biopsies can provide critical information about ocular tumours including genetic signature, presence of circulating tumour cells, and other biomarkers of disease severity. Dr. Burnier discusses Uveal Melanoma, the most common intraocular tumour in adults, and how liquid biopsies are becoming front and center in the personalized management of this highly complex tumour.

Microsoft’s Vision For an Accessible World Through Inclusive Design - Ricardo Wagner

Wed, 05 May 2021 09:49:20 -0400

Ricardo Wagner, Accessibility Lead for Microsoft Canada, shares inspirational stories of how inclusive design has influenced a global community of people with accessibility needs, including those with low vision. From the surgeon who could access a computer hands free to an artist with ALS who was able to continue creating using only her eyes, the broad-reaching, life changing impacts of Microsoft’s accessibility endeavours comes to light in this thought provoking interview.

Cataract Surgery: What To Expect - Dr. Debra-Meghan Sanft

Sun, 02 May 2021 21:03:42 -0400

Ophthalmologist Dr. Debra-Meghan Sanft shares a comprehensive overview of cataract surgery, Including what patients can expect before, during, and after surgery. Dr. Sanft also explores risks and rare complications that patients need to understand prior to consenting to cataract surgery.

Be My Eyes: Over 4 Million Volunteers Helping the Blind See – Will Butler

Tue, 27 Apr 2021 08:49:47 -0400

Will Butler, VP at "Be My Eyes", talks about the popular smart phone app and its rapid global adoption among the blind and visually impaired as well as millions of volunteers. Will further shares stories of corporate partnerships established by Be My Eyes to help people with low vision navigate everything from performing computer updates to reading pregnancy test results.

TapTapSee: Leveraging Technology To Help the Low Vision Community - Brad Folkens

Sat, 24 Apr 2021 19:24:50 -0400

Brad Folkens, CEO of TapTapSee, explains how the application helps people who are blind or have low vision “see“ using their smart phones. Brad covers the origins of the company and its technology, common use cases, and how the technology can be improved in the coming years.

Mastering Blindness, Mindset, and Reaching the Summit of Mount Kilimanjaro - Randy Pierce

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 07:30:17 -0400

Randy Pierce, President of 2020 Vision Quest, shares his journey of vision loss and how he focused on his abilities rather than his disabilities to climb Mount Kilimanjaro and other notable peaks, train for and compete in the Boston marathon as a blind athlete, pen a book to inspire the masses, and become a motivational speaker giving keynote addresses across a range of industries and geographies.

Retinal Disease: Treatment with CRISPR, Gene Therapy and Partial Proteins – Dr. Hemant Khanna

Sat, 17 Apr 2021 13:44:12 -0400

Dr. Hemant Khanna discusses how a powerful gene editing tool called CRISPR has the potential to treat blinding diseases such as Leber Congenital Amaurosis and Retinitis Pigmentosa. Dr. Khanna further provides an overview of gene therapy for retinal disease, as well as a description of a novel approach to treating retinal degeneration using partial length proteins.

Stories from a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor - Rob Cramer

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 10:02:01 -0400

Rob Cramer, Guide dog mobility instructor for CNIB, discusses his lifelong dream to work with guide dogs for people with low vision. Rob’s journey began at the age of 10 when his mother, diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, received her first guide dog. His path took him to Australia and eventually back to Canada, accumulating experience and powerful stories along the way that he shares with the audience in this interview.

Leading the Charge for Accessibility and Employment For the Blind and Visually Impaired – David Demers

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:00:00 -0400

David Demers, Executive Director of CNIB Quebec and Executive Lead for Frontier Accessibility, discusses accessibility and employment for people who are blind or visually impaired. Other topics covered include David’s own story of sudden vision loss due to Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy and the history and stigmatization of blindness.

Why Patients Can (and Should) Become Researchers, Discussion With Dr. Helen Dimaras

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 13:28:12 -0400

Dr. Helen Dimaras discusses how empowering Retinoblastoma survivors and their families to have a greater role in the decision-making process of research projects has led to more inclusive, high-quality, and translatable results. The Canadian Retinoblastoma Research Advisory Board (CRRAB) is co-directed by patients, clinicians, allied healthcare providers, researchers, patient engagement experts, and policymakers.

Retinitis Pigmentosa, Rowing For Gold and Olympic Dreams - Victoria Nolan

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 22:03:49 -0400

Victoria Nolan shares her story of vision loss due to Retinitis Pigmentosa and how she was drawn to start rowing at age 30, eventually earning a spot on the Canadian national adaptive rowing team. Victoria further shares stories of her experience as a guide dog handler and her current training for the Tokyo Olympic Games.

Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) - Dr. Stephen McIntosh

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 13:43:01 -0400

Dr. Stephen McIntosh provides a high-level overview of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), including modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, basic treatment approaches, a scientific explanation for the cause of the disease, and thoughts on why the disease etiology is complicated and not completely understood.

Artificial Intelligence Meets Ophthalmology With DIAGNOS

Fri, 26 Mar 2021 20:08:54 -0400

Andre Larente, President of DIAGNOS, explains how artificial intelligence is impacting the field of ophthalmology, enabling for early detection of diabetic retinopathy and other blinding eye diseases. Mr. Larente further explains how his companies technology can detect early signs of non-ocular conditions, including stroke.

Retinitis Pigmentosa: The Arrival of Gene Therapy and What Comes Next - Dr. Cynthia X. Qian

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 20:03:31 -0400

Dr. Cynthia X. Qian shares an in-depth overview of Retinitis Pigmentosa, highlighting potential treatment approaches at various stages of disease progression. Dr. Qian
further describes the first approved gene therapy for a specific type of Retinitis Pigmentosa and how this therapy sets the stage for targeted gene therapies for various inherited retinal dystrophies in the near future.

Retinal Implants, Ocular Gene Therapy, and the Importance of Genetic Testing for Inherited Retinal Dystrophies - Dr. Flavio Rezende

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 21:14:07 -0400

In this episode, Dr. Flavio Rezende explores the current state of affairs for retinal implants in Canada and worldwide, highlighting some of the benefits and limitations of the technology.

Dr. Rezende further provides an overview of gene therapy for inherited retinal dystrophies, explaining why such treatments seem to advance slowly and how the recent pandemic and improved access to genetic testing may accelerate the development of additional sight-saving ocular gene therapies.

Ocular Oncology: A Simple Tech Solution To a Faster Diagnosis - Dr. Rubens Belfort

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 22:32:24 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Rubens Belfort talks about OncoPhone, A simple, free, easy-to-access service for regional ophthalmologists who require clinical advice about suspected ocular cancers. Dr. Belfort explains why he pioneered this initiative in the field of ocular oncology in Brazil, how the initiative has been received, how it has helped ophthalmologists and patients, and how others can do the same for other rare ocular diseases.

Ophthalmology and COVID-19, Failed Technologies, and John Lennon’s Glasses - Dr. Natalia Villa

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 21:17:14 -0500

Dr. Natalia Villa shares her experience working as a retinal surgeon in the United Kingdom during the first wave of COVID-19 and then in Canada during the second wave. Dr. Villa further shares stories of retinal implants that never made it to market, patents that may never make it to the clinic, the rise of technology in ophthalmology, and a high-security visit centered around John Lennon‘s glasses.

Retinitis Pigmentosa, the Pros and Cons of Genetic Testing and What it’s like Raising Low Vision Children - Greg Dubecky

Tue, 09 Mar 2021 21:11:21 -0500

Greg Dubecky sheds light on raising a child with low vision, trying to understand retinitis pigmentosa research as a layperson and the need for knowledge transfer in ophthalmology.

Dry Eye: What Is It and What Can Patients Do About It - Dr. Stephen McIntosh

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 11:16:44 -0500

Dr. Stephen McIntosh explains what dry eye is and how it can be recognized and treated, drawing on years of experience as an optometrist practising in diverse rural and urban settings.

BroadEYE - bridging the knowledge gap in ophthalmology and eye care

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 11:13:55 -0500

In this episode, Dr. Shawn Maloney and Dr. Bruno Fernandes discuss the impetus for creating the podcast, highlighting the gaps in what patients, physicians, researchers, and industry professionals in ophthalmology and eye care know and understand.