What happens when you build your practice on care for patients, your team, and your community? This week on Optometrists Building Empires, Ankit Patel sits down with Dr. Viola Kanevsky, founder of Acuity NYC, a leading optometric practice on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Through stories of resilience, leadership, and genuine care, she reveals how empathy and adaptability shaped her 30-year career, and why a positive culture is her proudest achievement. If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with heart while running a thriving practice, this conversation is a masterclass in doing both.
Takeaways:
- Lead with care always. Dr. Kanevsky built her reputation by treating patients and staff like family, even calling elderly patients during the pandemic to check on their well-being.
- Culture starts at the top. Everyone at Acuity NYC is cross-trained, creating mutual respect and flexibility. When leaders are willing to clean the bathroom, no task feels “beneath” anyone.
- Invest in your team’s happiness. Her annual staff retreat blends training, open feedback, and genuine connection, a practice that strengthens loyalty and communication.
- Face challenges with resilience. From legal battles to market crashes, she’s learned that every obstacle can lead to an unexpected opportunity if you stay calm and adaptable.
- Empower through ownership. Letting employees identify their own weaknesses and name others’ strengths creates accountability and a sense of shared success.
- Stay curious. Whether it’s new technology or legislative advocacy, Dr. Kanevsky’s lifelong learning keeps her practice at the forefront of optometry.
Quote of the Show:
- “ It doesn't matter what happened at home that day or what's going on in the news. You have to be there and present for that patient and put on a happy face.” - Viola Kanevsky
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