OWA Talks Podcast

Change shapes us in unexpected ways. For this episode, Shannon Talbo joins OWA Talks to reflect on navigating change — whether it is leadership changes, consolidation, career evolution or even personal changes. About...

Join us for an honest conversation with Jackie Janiec about the seasons of life. We talk about leadership, perimenopause, motherhood, and how emotional intelligence has guided her both at home and in the optical...

The Future of the Industry and Innovation at Vision Expo 2026. In this episode, we sit down with Ashley Mills, CEO of The Vision Council, to explore the innovations, trends, and big‑picture forces shaping the industry...

What does it take to transform a family business into a powerhouse for independent eyewear? And why would a former comedian be the one to do it? In this episode, Scott Shapiro shares his journey from the stage to the...

New Year, New President: Ring in 2026 with ‘OWA Talks’ and Megan Molony! It’s a new Year and OWA Talks is kicking 2026 off with a bang! Listen to this episode as we sit down with new OWA President Megan Molony to hear...

Amanda Frugé joins us to talk smart eyewear and leadership. From Ray-Ban Meta to coaching top-performing teams, she shares insights on innovation, growth, and empowering women in optical. About the guest: With 25 years...

How do you lead a top-performing luxury sales district while juggling newborn diapers, elder care, and grief - all with a smile? Francesca Pucci joins us to share her refreshingly honest take on leadership, motherhood...

In this episode, Kasandra Riggs shares how her passion for service, leadership, and community engagement fuels her work at HOYA and beyond—empowering teams, mentoring future leaders, and creating lasting impact. About...

This month, Erin Peshoff joins OWA Talks to talk about applied positive psychology and teach us how to not just survive — but to thrive! Plus, she teases a fun event coming to Vision Expo West. About the guest: Erin...

As VSP Vision celebrates 70 years of helping people see, Chief Marketing Officer, Wendy Hauteman joins ‘OWA Talks’ to discuss how giving back can help you live a more meaningful and fulfilled life — both personally and...

Charismatic and respected eyecare industry legend, Jim McGrann, joins OWA Talks to share his passion for the industry and shed a light on the benefits of ‘spreading your wings’ in optical. About the guest: Jim McGrann...

In this episode, longtime OWA supporter Ed Buffington, Executive Advisor and former CEO of GPN Technologies, joins OWA Talks to share about the women who have impacted his personal life and 46-year career in optical...

In this episode, we are joined by Yang Yang, President, Vision Care at Bausch + Lomb, who shares her experiences throughout her 11+ years in the eye care industry, wisdom she learned throughout her career, and advice...

Tax season is upon us! Listen to this timely episode as we’re joined by Benitha Mintz, the CFO of Zyloware, as she offers unique insights on her approach to personal finances. About the guest: Benitha Mintz is an...

This episode features three women from the newly formed International Expansion Committee — we hear how their careers were shaped, major differences in corporate culture abroad, and learn about all the exciting ways the...