What stories are shaping the future of optometry, and how do we know where the industry is headed? 

To answer that, we turned to someone with perhaps the broadest view in eyecare today: Anne M. Cooper, Editorial Director of Vision Monday and 20/20 Magazine. 

Anne oversees the industry’s most widely read publications, reaching tens of thousands of readers daily through VMAIL, 20/20, newsletters, and digital platforms. From AI adoption to wearable tech, and from industry events to shifting patient expectations, Anne and her team are not only reporting on the latest developments within the industry, but the headlines shaping the conversations and defining eyecare’s next chapter. 

The Industry’s Thirst for Technology: 

Anne reveals a clear trend: professionals across eyecare are hungry for insights into technology. Whether it’s artificial intelligence enhancing diagnostics and operations, or wearables like Nuance Audio glasses combining hearing and vision support, her readership signals intense curiosity. These stories consistently draw massive engagement — proof that technology is no longer a side conversation but a central force. 

AI as a Tool, Not a Threat: 

Anne underscores a key perspective: AI won’t replace practitioners — those who use AI will replace those who don’t. From practice management efficiencies to expanding patient access, AI’s role is evolving fast. Yet, she stresses that adoption is uneven, and leaders must help teams embrace change with agility and openness 

The Great Shift in Industry Events: 

One of the most talked-about stories of recent months? The Vision Expo consolidation in 2026. 

Anne describes how this decision “broke the internet” within eyecare media, sparking record readership and debate. For some, it’s overdue progress toward a flagship event. For others, it raises questions about tradition, networking opportunities, and the ripple effects on pre-conferences and niche gatherings. This shift, she explains, reflects the broader challenge of adapting to post-COVID changes in how professionals gather, learn, and do business. 

Media’s Role in Navigating Change: 

As the lines between print, digital, and social platforms blur, Anne highlights the responsibility of her team to meet readers where they are. Some still prefer print, while others want bite-sized updates on LinkedIn or Instagram. The challenge (and opportunity) is to customize content delivery while avoiding echo chambers that limit diversity of thought. In her words, it’s about ensuring eyecare professionals see the full picture, not just their chosen slice. 

A Noble Drive Behind Eyecare: 

Beyond trends, Anne shares her personal reflections after 18 months in the role: eyecare is unlike any other field she has worked in. Despite competition, businesses and professionals consistently set rivalries aside to support patients, causes, or innovations. That unity, she says, stems from a shared “noble mission to help people see” — a truth that continues to inspire her daily. 

• AI in Eyecare: How practices can leverage AI today and why adoption is no longer optional. 

• Wearable Innovation: Why breakthroughs like Nuance Audio glasses captured record interest. 

• Industry Events in Flux: The implications of Vision Expo consolidation and what it signals about the future. 

• Media Consumption Trends: How digital natives vs. traditional readers are reshaping how news is delivered. 

• The Human Side of Eyecare: Why collaboration across competitors remains one of the industry’s strongest traits. 

• 00:00 – Introduction 
• 04:00 – The Stories That Resonated Most in the Last 18 Months 
• 06:15 – AI in Practice: From Diagnostics to Access 
• 08:40 – Wearable Tech That’s Redefining Eyecare 
• 10:30 – Expanding Scope: Myopia, Dry Eye, and Beyond 
• 12:35 – Will AI Replace Us? 
• 16:00 – How Eyecare News Is Decided 
• 30:05 – Vision Expo Shake-Up: One Flagship Event in 2026 
• 36:30 – Ripple Effects: Stakeholders, Pre-Conferences & Networking 
• 44:00 – Anne’s Surprises After 18 Months in Eyecare Media 
• 48:00 – Why Eyecare’s Shared Mission Sets It Apart 

Connect with Anne M. Cooper

Anne M. Cooper serves as the Editorial Director of 20/20 Magazine, Vision Monday, and their associated platforms including VMAIL and the Vision Monday Global Leadership Summit, bringing more than 20 years of editorial leadership across the health care and dentistry sectors. In this pivotal role, she oversees editorial direction, strategy, and operations across print and digital formats — encompassing websites, e-newsletters, and live events. She also plays a key role in several flagship industry initiatives, such as the VM Leadership Summit and the “Most Influential Women in Optical” program.  

In her current position, Cooper is recognized for steering Vision Monday and 20/20 to the forefront of eyecare journalism. She leverages a cross-platform approach — print, digital, and live events — to deliver timely insights and drive industry discourse. Her leadership ensures that Vision Monday remains the go-to source for trends, news, and thought leadership in the eyecare profession. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-m-cooper-ma-13395551/  

Website: https://jobsonresearch.com/  

Connect with Eugene Shatsman (Managing Partner, NSG) 

Website – https://www.eugeneshatsman.com/

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugeneshatsman