Ois Podcast

Malvina Eydelman, M.D., CEO of The Collaborative Community on Ophthalmic Innovation (CCOI), joins The Rob & Jai Show, an edition of the OIS podcast, to discuss what innovation in the industry looks like in the next 30 years—and if we’re hitting a saturation mark. Plus, a deep dive into Eydelman’s career in the FDA, her current role at the CCOI, and a big announcement of her next initiative.  In this episode of the OIS podcast, learn about:  Eydelman’s time at the FDA and the many hats she wore The goal and plans of the CCOI The role of AI in digital management and getting more patients into the system Details about Eydelman’s next big initiative  RESOURCES:  Dr. Rob Rothman: https://ois.net/robert-rothman-md/  Dr. Jai Parekh: https://ois.net/jai-g-parekh-md-mba/  Dr. Malvina Eydelman: https://ois.net/malvina-eydelman/  

Adrienne Graves, Ph.D. returns, this time on The Rob & Jai Show, an edition of the OIS podcast. As a trailblazer of the industry, Dr. Graves shares her insights and lessons learned as a CEO and board member of several companies. She also discusses getting treatment to areas around the world that need it the most, how AI will affect and continue to impact eyecare and healthcare at large, and utilizing ophthalmic data for systemic disease diagnosis and management.  In this episode of the OIS podcast, learn about:  Getting affordable and accessible ophthalmological therapies across the world The differences between being a CEO and a board member The impact of AI on eyecare and how it applies to practices The next hot topic of ophthalmology  RESOURCES:  Dr. Rob Rothman: https://ois.net/robert-rothman-md/  Dr. Jai Parekh: https://ois.net/jai-g-parekh-md-mba/  Adrienne Graves, Ph.D.: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennegraves  

Theresa Heah, M.D., MBA, co-founder, vice-chair, and CEO of Eyexora, speaks with host Carey Powers at this year’s Ophthalmology Innovation Summit about her company’s fresh approach to building an ophthalmology company that centralizes R&D, clinical, regulatory, and commercial expertise into a “one-stop shop.” Heah delves into the advantages of the hub and spoke model and how it will help overcome the gaps in the eye care landscape, as well as their plans to expand to the UK. In this episode of the OIS podcast, learn about:  · Eyexora’s mission as a unique hub and spoke company dedicated to accelerating clinical innovation ·  The barriers in the ophthalmology field and how Eyexora’s approach will help overcome them ·  The advantages of building relationships on a global scale ·  Milestones and scientific areas to look out for in 2026 RESOURCES:  Carey Powers: https://ois.net/carey-powers/  Theresa Heah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresaheah  Eyexora: https://eyexora.com/ 

Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Ph.D., president and CEO of Safe Toddles, speaks with host Robert Rothman about her mission to create a safer, easier-to-navigate world for children—perhaps one of the most underserved patients in eye care. Dr. Ambrose-Zaken discusses her breakthrough invention, the Pediatric Belt Cane, and how it transformed early mobility for blind children.  In this episode of the OIS podcast, learn about:  Why we need to have empathy and understanding for the visually impaired, especially children The advantages of the belt cane over the white cane The impediments of getting the belt cane to patients How to support the visually impaired and Safe Toddles’ mission 

What are the key qualities to being effective teammates? David Esposito, President and CEO of ONL Therapeutics, and Connie Chang, Chief Operating Officer of ONL Therapeutics, chat with host James Murray on the importance and value of transparency, trustworthiness, vulnerability, and candor amongst leadership to establish a strong company foundation.In this episode of the OIS podcast, learn about:Handling the little problems before they become big problemsThe ability to execute big ideas effectively and efficientlyBuilding trust between companies, investors, and all other partiesNavigating the challenges of scaling

At this year’s Retina Innovation Summit, industry experts and leaders gathered in a two-part discussion on investment trends, regulatory environment and FDA changes, emerging therapies in ophthalmology, and more. Panelists include: Laura Feinleib, Managing Director at Redmile Group; Derrick Li, Chief Strategy Officer at ODC Life Sciences; Cameron Taylor, Managing Director at BofA Securities | Life Sciences; Wayne Caulder, Vice President & General Manager of Surgical (U.S. & Canada) at Bausch + Lomb; Paul Hallen, Vice President & Distinguished Fellow at Alcon; Nida Sen, MD, VP, Ophthalmology Strategy & Development Head at Sanofi; and Julian Smith, General Manager Portfolio Commercial Strategy - Eye Care at AbbVie.In this panel learn about:

Join Dr. Robert Rothman as he talks with Rajan Shukla about his journey from a family legacy in ophthalmology to pioneering new treatments for anterior segment diseases. Rajan shares how Vital Tears is making serum tears accessible nationwide and how Bright Star Therapeutics is developing innovative therapies like BrightMEM™ to transform ocular surface care.In this episode, learn about:The story behind Vital Tears and Bright Star TherapeuticsBrightMEM™ and its impact on treating limbal stem cell deficiencyThe future of ocular surface and retinal therapiesHear how innovation is shaping the future of eye care.

This week on The Rob & Jai Show, an edition of the OIS Podcast, Dr. Rob Rothman and Dr. Jai Parekh welcome Tomas Navratil, PhD, Chief Development Officer at Glaukos, to discuss the company’s remarkable transformation from MIGS pioneer to a diversified global leader in ophthalmology. Glaukos is advancing a robust pipeline that spans devices, pharmaceuticals, and drug-device combinations—reshaping the future of eye care.Highlights from the episode include:How Glaukos tripled its R&D pipeline over the past decadeA shift from 100% device focus to 70% pharma or drug-device innovationNext-gen iDose TR with double the payload heading into clinical developmentPositive Phase 3 results for Epioxa, a non-surgical therapy for keratoconusTune in now to hear how Glaukos is stepping into its next chapter as a true ophthalmic powerhouse.

This week on The Rob & Jai Show, an edition of the OIS Podcast, Rob Rothman and Jai Parekh welcome Shawn O'Neil, President and Chief Commercial Officer of ViaLase, to discuss a cutting-edge advancement in glaucoma treatment. Velas is pioneering the FLIGHT procedure—Femtosecond Laser Image-Guided High-Precision Trabeculotomy—a non-invasive, incision-free alternative to traditional surgery. Highlights from the episode include:How ViaLase combines femtosecond laser precision with advanced OCT imagingThe benefits of a non-surgical, office-based glaucoma treatmentViaLase’s newly secured CPT code (0730T) and reimbursement strategyRegulatory milestones, including CE Mark approval and upcoming U.S. trialsThe long-term potential of FLIGHT to serve patients across the glaucoma journeyTune in to learn how this technology could redefine glaucoma care for both physicians and patients.

This week on The Rob & Jai Show, an edition of the OIS Podcast, Perry Sternberg, CEO of Sydnexis, discusses the company's efforts to bring its innovative SYD-101 product to market, which aims to slow the progression of pediatric myopia.Challenges in Market Access: Sternberg emphasizes the challenges of market access and reimbursement, explaining that it's not just about the product’s price but also the value proposition it offers.Launch Plans for 2026: The company is planning for a 2026 launch, following FDA approval, with a strong focus on ensuring a positive experience for both physicians and patients.Global Significance of SYD-101: He highlights the global significance of SYD-101, particularly in regions with high rates of myopia like Asia, where the need for effective solutions is critical.Personal Mission: Reflecting on his personal mission, Sternberg expresses his desire to make a meaningful impact on children’s vision and future health. The hosts applaud his leadership and the potential o

In this edition of The Rob & Jai Show, the OIS Podcast welcomes Adam Szaronos, CEO of IanTrek, for a wide-ranging conversation on innovation, leadership, and unlocking new pathways in glaucoma care. Adam walks us through his career journey from Alcon to TearLab to leading IanTrek, where he’s now championing a new class of glaucoma procedures with AloeFlow™—a minimally invasive, tissue-based implant that activates the uveoscleral pathway.Together with hosts Dr. Rob Rothman and Dr. Jai Parekh, Adam discusses:The evolution of his career from medical device sales to surgical commercialization and C-suite leadership.Why the uveoscleral pathway, long leveraged in pharmacology, has remained unaddressed in surgical glaucoma—and how IanTrek is changing that.The material science breakthrough that differentiates AloeFlow™ from past uveoscleral attempts like CyPass.The market opportunity for post-MiGs patients and how IanTrek’s platform opens new treatment options without burning surgical real estate.Insights into Ia

In this edition of The Rob & Jai Show, Paul Smith, President & COO of Orasis Pharmaceuticals, joins Dr. Rob Rothman and Dr. Jai Parekh for a compelling conversation on his career path and the commercialization of Qlosi™—a novel, FDA-approved, low-dose pilocarpine eye drop for the treatment of presbyopia.With more than two decades of experience across Alcon, Novartis, and now Orasis, Smith reflects on his unique career trajectory from tech startups to ophthalmic leadership, the importance of cross-functional experience, and how a shared vision with founder & CEO Elad Kedar led him to the helm of a company now reshaping the presbyopia landscape.In this episode, you'll learn:Why Qlosi™ was formulated at the lowest approved concentration of pilocarpine to prioritize safety, tolerability, and functional vision.How Orasis is differentiating its launch by learning from past category efforts and focusing on real-world expectations and patient needs.The company’s go-to-market strategy, including a hyb

In this edition of the OIS Podcast, a powerhouse panel of investment, banking, and biotech leaders offers unfiltered insights on the current and future state of the ophthalmic industry. Featuring Andrew Gitkin (Leerink Partners), Cameron Taylor (Bank of America), Susan Orr, PhD (Claris Bio), and Anupam Dalal, MD (Acuta Capital), and Dr. Pravin Dugel, Chairman and CEO of Ocular Therapeutix, this session explores how macroeconomic and political shifts—such as RFK Jr.'s FDA rhetoric and rising interest rates—are influencing capital markets, regulatory confidence, and biotech strategy. With humor, candor, and deep expertise, the panel discusses: 

In this episode of The Rob & Jai Show, Michael O’Rourke, CEO of Re-Vana Therapeutics, joins Dr. Rob Rothman and Dr. Jai Parekh to explore the next-generation of sustained drug delivery in ophthalmology. With millions of intravitreal injections administered annually for retinal diseases like AMD, the need for longer-lasting, more effective treatments has never been greater.O’Rourke explains how Re-Vana’s proprietary hydrogel-based technologies are setting a new standard for biodegradable, sustained-release drug implants—offering six to twelve months of therapeutic coverage without the need for surgery. The discussion covers:

In this episode of The Rob & Jai Show, Dr. Rob Rothman and Dr. Jai Parekh host a captivating conversation with Andrew Stewart and Anthony Wallace—two leaders who are among the most experienced and admired executives in ophthalmology. Andrew Stewart, with over 25 years of pharmaceutical leadership across Bausch + Lomb, AbbVie, and Allergan, shares how his global business acumen shapes innovation in eye care. Anthony Wallace, a 26-year healthcare veteran with leadership roles at Novartis, Merck, and GlaxoSmithKline, reflects on leading Bausch + Lomb’s U.S. Surgical business and his passion for patient-centered solutions. Both leaders bring a wealth of knowledge, relatable stories, and a shared commitment to advancing ophthalmic care.In this episode, you’ll learn:

In this OIS Podcast episode, host Dr. Robert Rothman sits down with Daphne Haim-Langford, PhD, Founder & CEO of Tarsier Pharma, and Ashley Kline, Chief Commercial Officer, to discuss their groundbreaking approach to uveitis treatment.Tarsier’s lead candidate, TRS01, is a first-in-class bio-inspired therapy designed to control inflammation without raising intraocular pressure, a major complication of steroid treatments. With a unique mechanism of action that modulates macrophages and reduces inflammation, this novel drug has the potential to redefine uveitis and glaucoma care. In this episode, you’ll learn:

In this episode of Eye on Innovation, host Carey Powers introduces the Next-Gen Innovators series with special guest Dr. Vikram Shankar, an ophthalmologist at Stanford and co-founder of Dropmate. Dr. Shankar discusses how his passion for public health and patient care inspired the creation of Dropmate—a compact, affordable, and eco-friendly disinfection system for clinical eye care equipment. Learn how this technology addresses patient safety, cost savings, and environmental sustainability, all while transforming the standard of care in ophthalmology.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Dropmate revolutionizes the disinfection process for eyedropper bottles, tonometer tips, and other eye care devices.The significant cost savings and sustainability impact of Dropmate on clinics and ASCs.Dr. Shankar’s inspiring journey from public health to ophthalmology and innovation.Insights into building a successful medical startup, including mentorship, partnerships, and overcoming challenges.The milestones Dropmate has achi

In this episode of The Rob and Jai Show, Dave LeCause, a renowned biopharmaceutical leader and former VP of Allergan Eye Care, reflects on his remarkable career in ophthalmology. Join us as Dave discusses his journey from leading commercial strategies for billion-dollar brands to mentoring the next generation of innovators. Hear his thoughts on innovation cycles, the evolving landscape of dry eye treatments, and why gene and cell therapies hold the key to ophthalmology’s future.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Dave LeCause helped shape the commercial success of leading ophthalmic brands.His perspective on dry eye innovation and the market’s ongoing growth potential.Why gene and cell therapy excite him as the next frontier in eye care.Insights into the evolving role of strategic partnerships and commercialization strategies in startups.The unique opportunities and challenges facing the eye care sector today.Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of ophthalmology’s most influential leaders. Subscribe

In this double-feature episode of the OIS Eye on Innovation Podcast, Carey Powers highlights the invaluable resources and expertise within the OIS community, showcasing the power of cross-collaboration and strategic foresight in biotech.Part 1: Dr. Francis Lasowski (C20/20 Innovation Hub) and Dr. Wendy Naimark (Ripple Therapeutics) discuss their long-standing partnership, which has propelled Ripple's success through groundbreaking innovations, including dry AMD research and key advancements in IP management. Learn how the Innovation Hub provides early-stage companies with critical resources to navigate the challenges of development and commercialization.Part 2: Tracy Valorie, a biotech and pharma veteran, explains why early commercial strategy is the key to success. From understanding market access and reimbursement to planning for manufacturing readiness, Tracy shares actionable tips for startups to avoid costly mistakes and maintain a commercial mindset throughout product development.In this episode, y

In this episode of The Rob and Jai Show from OIS XIV, hosts Dr. Rob Rothman and Dr. Jai Parekh talk with Eric Schlumpf, CEO of Stuart Therapeutics, about the company’s transformative approach to ophthalmic diseases. Learn how Stuart's innovative polypeptide technology repairs damaged collagen, advancing from dry eye to neuroprotection in glaucoma and beyond. Eric highlights key milestones, including promising clinical trial results, strategic partnerships, and the company’s plans to tackle major unmet needs like myopia and inherited retinal diseases.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Stuart Therapeutics’ polypeptide platform is revolutionizing ophthalmic treatments.The potential for neuroprotection in glaucoma and what makes Stuart’s approach unique.Why Stuart’s dry eye clinical program could be a market differentiator.The exciting data supporting new indications like myopia and inherited retinal disease.How strategic partnerships are fueling innovation in a capital-efficient way.Tune in for an engaging c