Creating a Clear Pathway from Associate Optometrist to Partnership with Erich Mattei
The Optometry Money Podcast
The Optometry Money Podcast
Creating a Clear Pathway from Associate Optometrist to Partnership with Erich Mattei
Apr 02, 2025 Episode 132
Evon Mendrin

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In this episode of The Optometry Money Podcast, host Evon Mendrin welcomes back Erich Mattei of Akrinos for a follow-up conversation focused on creating a pathway for associate doctors to become partners in your optometry practice.

Whether you're an owner thinking about bringing on a partner or an associate doctor aiming to own part of a practice, this episode unpacks the key considerations you need to know.

In this episode, you'll learn:

  • The motivations for bringing on a partner (succession planning, growth, and shared leadership)
  • Why starting the conversation early is critical for practice owners
  • What owners should look for in a future partner beyond clinical skills
  • How modernizing business operations can make ownership more attractive
  • The essentials of structuring a partnership: timelines, financing options, and compensation
  • Legal documents you must have when structuring partnerships and exits
  • Final tips for owners and associates to create win-win opportunities

Resources Mentioned:


The Optometry Money Podcast is dedicated to helping optometrists make better decisions around their money, careers, and practices. The show is hosted by Evon Mendrin, CFP®, CSLP®, owner of Optometry Wealth Advisors, a financial planning firm just for optometrists nationwide.