When One Decision Changes Your Life: Courage, Relationships, and Growth with Kristen Tischler

When One Decision Changes Your Life: Courage, Relationships, and Growth with Kristen Tischler

In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu welcomes marketing executive and Optical Women's Association leader Kristen Tischler for a heartfelt conversation about courage, motherhood, relationships, vulnerability, and the power of taking the first step into the unknown. What begins as a discussion about Kristen's career journey from financial services into the eye care industry quickly unfolds into a much richer conversation about life's unexpected turns. Kristen shares how following a relationship led her to relocate, change careers, and ultimately discover a profession she loves, while Katie reflects on how a relationship similarly introduced her to optometry decades earlier. Throughout the episode, both women openly discuss therapy, personal transformation, and the quiet work of rebuilding confidence from within. Katie courageously shares her healing journey following childhood trauma and her evolving relationship with her late mother, while Kristen reflects on the life-changing advice she received early in adulthood: action creates momentum. That simple principle became the catalyst for leaving an unfulfilling relationship, changing careers, moving overseas, and ultimately building the life she enjoys today. The conversation also explores motherhood, resilience, leadership, friendship, gratitude, and the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships. Kristen shares how becoming a mother strengthened her ability to remain calm during crises, while both women reflect on the lessons they have learned about vulnerability, emotional intelligence, and embracing uncertainty. As the discussion draws to a close, Kristen shares the remarkable story of her grandmother, a Danish resistance member, Olympic caliber swimmer, interpreter, and devoted matriarch whose legacy continues to inspire generations. Katie reflects on legacy in her own life and her desire to leave behind meaningful work that serves others. This episode is a powerful reminder that growth rarely comes from having all the answers. It comes from taking one courageous step forward, trusting the process, and allowing life to build momentum along the way.   Key Takeaways Action creates momentum You do not need the entire path mapped out before moving forward. Taking the first courageous step often opens doors and creates opportunities that could never have been predicted. Vulnerability strengthens connection Katie and Kristen openly discuss therapy, healing, childhood experiences, and emotional growth, demonstrating that authentic leadership comes from allowing others to see both strength and vulnerability. The people who shape us become part of our legacy From Kristen's extraordinary grandmother to Katie's reflections on forgiveness and motherhood, both guests explore how family stories, mentors, and meaningful relationships continue to influence future generations.   Quotes from the Episode “Action creates momentum.” “True human, genuine connection comes from sharing and being open and vulnerable.” “The only thing you have to do is take the first step.”   About Kristen Tischler Kristen Tischler is the Chief Marketing Officer at Advancing Eyecare, where she leads integrated marketing strategy across brand, product, customer experience, and revenue generation for a portfolio of ophthalmic equipment companies serving North America and the United Kingdom. With more than 18 years of experience spanning healthcare, medical technology, financial services, and B2B marketing, Kristen has built a reputation for creating high-performing teams and developing the systems, programs, and product strategies that transform complex solutions into measurable business growth. Named one of Vision Monday's Most Influential Women in Optical in 2022, Kristen is a passionate advocate for leadership development and mentorship within the eye care profession. She serves as Associate Vice Chair of the Optical Women's Association Connection and Enrichment Committee, helps lead the OWA Full Circle Mentorship Program, serves as Vice Chair of the Program Committee for The Vision Council, and volunteers with Prevent Blindness. Outside of the industry, Kristen supports United Athletics USA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the health and wellness of first responders through sport by providing resources, advocacy, and organizational support for athletes representing the United States in international competition. A graduate of Virginia Tech, Kristen competed as a Division I collegiate volleyball player before continuing her career as a professional volleyball player in Germany. Today, she lives in Virginia with her husband, two children, and their beloved pit bull, Indy, and still enjoys playing beach volleyball whenever she can.   Connect with Kristen Tischler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristentischler [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristentischler]

From Optometrist to Entrepreneur: Taking Risks and Thinking Bigger with Dr. Brianna Rhue

In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with optometrist, entrepreneur, practice owner, and founder of Dr. Contact Lens, Dr. Brianna Rhue, for a conversation about ambition, entrepreneurship, family, purpose, and the seasons of life. What begins as a discussion about Brianna’s journey from practicing optometry to becoming a technology entrepreneur quickly unfolds into a deeper conversation about dreaming bigger, pursuing opportunities others may not understand, and balancing personal fulfillment with family responsibilities. Brianna reflects on growing up in an entrepreneurial family, learning business lessons through her parents’ furniture company, and eventually building a successful business that bridges the gap between clinicians and industry partners. She shares the challenges of pursuing a vision that many people cannot immediately see, and how entrepreneurs often face misunderstanding when they choose to invest time, energy, and resources into something larger than themselves. The conversation moves beyond business into more personal territory as both Katie and Brianna discuss aging, mortality, parenthood, personal growth, and the evolving priorities that come with different decades of life. Katie reflects on her desire to leave a meaningful legacy through her books, podcast, and community work, while Brianna shares the unique perspective that comes from raising young children and rediscovering wonder through their eyes. Together, they explore what it means to embrace each season of life fully, find peace amidst constant demands, and remain open to growth even as priorities shift. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that life is made up of chapters, and that every season offers an opportunity to learn, create, connect, and leave something meaningful behind.   Key Takeaways Big dreams often come with misunderstanding Pursuing entrepreneurship and innovation frequently means seeing possibilities that others cannot yet see. Visionaries are often misunderstood long before their ideas become obvious to everyone else. Every season of life has its own purpose Different stages of life bring different priorities, lessons, and opportunities. Fulfillment comes from embracing the season you are in rather than wishing for another one. Legacy is built through everyday actions Whether through raising children, serving patients, building businesses, writing books, or helping others grow, meaningful impact is created through consistent daily choices.   Quotes from the Episode “Dream bigger.” “You can always look back and connect the dots, but you can't connect the dots looking forward.” “Seize each season as if it's your last season.”   About Dr. Brianna Rhue Dr. Brianna Rhue, OD, FAAO, FSLS, earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, where she was a cheerleader, before receiving her Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University. She completed her residency at the renowned Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami. Today, Dr. Rhue is the owner of a successful private practice in South Florida and the Co-Founder and CEO of Dr. Contact Lens, an innovative healthcare technology company that has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Her professional passions include healthcare technology, myopia management, specialty contact lenses, and practice management. She is committed to helping eye care professionals embrace innovation while also understanding the business side of medicine. Outside of work, Brianna enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, playing tennis and pickleball, practicing yoga, and traveling. She is an avid reader of business books and frequently recommends Buy Back Your Time to fellow entrepreneurs and healthcare professionals. Her favorite quote perfectly reflects her entrepreneurial mindset: “You can wake up every day and build someone else's dream, or you can wake up every day and build your own.”   Connect with Dr. Brianna Rhue Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcontactlens/ [https://www.instagram.com/drcontactlens/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannarhue/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannarhue/] Website: https://drcontactlens.com [https://drcontactlens.com]

The Relationships That Matter with Dr. Mark Kapperman: Purpose, Mentorship, and Leaving a Legacy

In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with optometrist, humanitarian, and longtime Vision Source leader Dr. Mark Kapperman for a thoughtful conversation about faith, service, purpose, forgiveness, and the relationships that shape our lives. Recorded during the Vision Source Exchange in Nashville, Tennessee, the discussion begins with reflections on independent optometry, the privilege of caring for patients over decades, and the meaningful relationships that develop through long-term healthcare. What follows is a deeply personal conversation about life beyond the exam room. Mark shares the story of how a simple eye exam in the tenth grade changed the course of his life forever. After struggling to see well enough to play baseball, receiving his first pair of glasses became a transformative moment that inspired him to pursue optometry. Decades later, he continues to find fulfillment in helping others experience that same life-changing gift of sight. Throughout the episode, both Katie and Mark reflect on the role faith has played in their lives. They revisit their chance encounter at a previous Vision Source Exchange, a moment they both describe as a “God moment,” and discuss how faith provides strength, direction, and perspective during life’s most challenging seasons. The conversation also explores forgiveness, healing, mentorship, service, and personal growth. Katie courageously shares part of her journey through childhood trauma and healing, while Mark reflects on the importance of integrity, relationships, and maintaining perspective through mission work in Honduras, where he has served for more than two decades providing eye care to underserved communities. Together, they discuss the value of time, the importance of community, and the realization that purpose is often found not in achievement, but in serving others and lifting people up. This episode is a powerful reminder that success is not measured by titles or accomplishments alone. It is measured by the lives we touch, the people we encourage, and the faith that carries us forward.   Key Takeaways Purpose often reveals itself through service Both Katie and Mark reflect on how their greatest fulfillment has come not from professional accomplishments, but from serving patients, communities, and people who need encouragement and support. Faith provides strength, clarity, and perspective Faith can become an anchor during difficult seasons, helping people navigate challenges, heal from past wounds, and trust a greater purpose. Time and relationships are life’s most valuable assets Whether through family, patients, friendships, or mission work, meaningful relationships and intentional use of time ultimately matter more than achievements or possessions.   Quotes from the Episode “What we get to do every day is quite amazing.” “There is nothing in this world that can ever hold you back from achieving your dreams.” “We need family. We need colleagues. We need friends. We need each other.”   About Dr. Mark Kapperman Dr. Mark R. Kapperman is a Chattanooga-based optometrist and founder of Kapperman McGarvey Eye Group, which he established in 1988. Over the years, the practice has grown into one of the region’s leading providers of primary eye care, known for its family-centered approach and commitment to exceptional patient experiences. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Kapperman has served in numerous leadership roles within the profession, mentored future optometrists, and contributed as adjunct faculty for multiple universities. His passion for service extends far beyond Tennessee through extensive humanitarian work in Honduras, Belize, and Panama, where he has helped provide vision care to underserved communities for more than two decades. A dedicated advocate for both professional excellence and personal connection, Mark believes some of the greatest rewards in life come through serving others, building meaningful relationships, and investing in future generations. He and his wife, Anita, are proud parents of three children, including two who followed in his footsteps as optometric physicians. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to patient care, leadership, mentorship, faith, and service.   Connect with Dr. Mark Kapperman Website https://www.kmeyegroup.com/doctors/mark-kapperman.html [https://www.kmeyegroup.com/doctors/mark-kapperman.html]

What Really Matters with Dr. John Womack: Patience, Perspective, and Living with Intention

In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with optometrist, speaker, and longtime colleague Dr. John Womack for a heartfelt conversation about family, gratitude, purpose, personal growth, and the people who shape our lives. Recorded in Atlanta before a professional training event, the conversation follows the show's signature “soft chews and hard chews” format, blending lighthearted stories with meaningful reflections on life's most important lessons. Dr. Womack shares his journey from a small town in Georgia to building a successful career in optometry, while reflecting on the decision that unexpectedly shaped his life the most: returning to Florida after graduation. What seemed like a simple choice at the time ultimately led him to his wife, his family, and much of the life he treasures today. Throughout the conversation, themes of gratitude and appreciation emerge again and again. John speaks openly about the mentors, family members, colleagues, and loved ones who helped him become who he is today, describing how he often feels he is standing on the shoulders of giants. He reflects on the importance of recognizing those influences and making sure the people we care about know how much they matter. Katie shares stories of family traditions, raising daughters, serving an underserved community, and embracing opportunities that once felt intimidating, including becoming a public speaker. Together, they discuss patience, personal growth, accepting differences in the people we love, and the challenge of slowing down in a fast moving world. One particularly moving moment centers on grief and loss as Katie reflects on the passing of her beloved therapist and mentor. The conversation explores faith, gratitude, and the lasting impact people leave on our lives long after they are gone. Warm, reflective, and deeply human, this episode is a reminder that life’s greatest gifts are often the people who guide us, support us, and help us become who we are meant to be.   Key Takeaways We are shaped by the people who invest in us Success is rarely achieved alone. Family, mentors, friends, and colleagues often play a critical role in shaping who we become and the opportunities we pursue. Life changing decisions often seem small in the moment What feels like an ordinary decision can have extraordinary consequences. Sometimes the choices that shape our lives most are the ones we barely recognize at the time. Growth often requires acceptance rather than control Learning to accept circumstances, perspectives, and personalities we cannot change can create greater peace, patience, and fulfillment.   Quotes from the Episode “You stand on the shoulders of giants.” “The easiest decision I ever made in my life was getting back to Florida.” “It’s not up to me to change them, and they shouldn’t be changed.”   About Dr. John Womack Dr. John Womack graduated from the Southern College of Optometry in 2002 and has spent more than 23 years serving patients across the United States. He currently serves as Chief Medical Officer for Family First Vision Care and West Point Optical Group, a role he has held for the past seven years. Through this position, he works with doctors across more than 90 practices spanning 13 states. In addition to his primary care practice work, Dr. Womack has served as a key opinion leader for Bausch + Lomb for over a decade and for LENZ. Outside of optometry, one of John's greatest passions is distance running. He recently completed his 28th marathon in Oklahoma, a race he describes as one of the most meaningful experiences of his running journey outside of the famous Boston Marathon. Throughout his career, he has remained grateful for the opportunities to learn, grow, and work alongside remarkable people, experiences he considers among the greatest gifts of his professional life.   Connect with Dr. John Womack Website: https://familyfirstvisioncare.com/ [https://familyfirstvisioncare.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-womack-od-22605b80/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-womack-od-22605b80/]

The Hidden Reason We Feel Stuck: Leadership Lessons on Growth and Clarity with Dr. Ben Thayil

In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with optometrist, entrepreneur, leadership strategist, and founder of LeadOD, Dr. Ben Thayil, for a thoughtful and transformative conversation about leadership, purpose, authenticity, and the inner work required for meaningful growth. What begins as a discussion about leadership development quickly evolves into a deeper exploration of personal transformation. Dr. Thayil shares the foundational belief behind his leadership philosophy: true leadership growth starts on the inside. Professional success, business growth, and external achievement can only expand to the level that a person has developed internally. Throughout the conversation, Katie and Ben openly discuss therapy, emotional healing, childhood experiences, and the hidden struggles that often exist beneath outward success. Ben reflects on the realization that many of the barriers limiting his professional growth were not external obstacles, but unresolved personal challenges that required deeper self awareness and intentional work. Katie shares her own journey toward greater authenticity and alignment, reflecting on the freedom that comes from embracing vulnerability and showing up as her true self rather than trying to meet external expectations. Together, they explore topics including burnout, emotional intelligence, parenting, purpose driven work, identity, and the importance of seeing people as individuals rather than positions or titles. They also discuss how healthcare professionals often underestimate the profound impact they have on the lives of their patients. One of the strongest themes throughout the episode is the idea that purpose transforms ordinary work into meaningful service. Whether answering phones, scheduling appointments, caring for patients, leading teams, or raising children, connecting daily actions to a deeper purpose creates greater engagement, fulfillment, and impact. This episode is a powerful reminder that growth begins with self awareness, leadership starts within, and authentic human connection remains one of the greatest gifts we can offer others.   Key Takeaways Leadership growth begins with personal growth Leadership development is ultimately personal development. As people grow internally, their ability to lead, influence, and create meaningful impact naturally expands. Authenticity reduces burnout and creates alignment Maintaining multiple versions of ourselves can be exhausting. Greater authenticity creates clarity, purpose, and sustainable energy. Purpose transforms ordinary work into meaningful service When daily tasks are connected to a larger mission, engagement, fulfillment, and impact increase dramatically.   Quotes from the Episode “Leadership development is personal growth with a title.” “We build better organizations by building better people.” “When we find ourselves stuck externally, it's often because we're stuck internally.”   About Dr. Ben Thayil Dr. Ben Thayil is an optometrist, entrepreneur, and leadership strategist based in South Florida. As the founder of Lifetime Vision & Eye Care and LeadOD, he works at the intersection of healthcare and leadership, helping professionals build organizations that not only perform well, but align with the life they want to live. His work focuses on a challenge many high achievers quietly face: creating external success while feeling fragmented internally. That insight forms the foundation of his upcoming book, Big E Energy, where he introduces an inside out framework for leadership and life. The book challenges traditional ideas about productivity and energy, reframing energy not as hustle or output, but as the strength that comes from alignment. Through coaching, speaking, and leadership development, Dr. Thayil helps leaders move from feeling exhausted and disconnected to becoming focused, resilient, and fully engaged in both life and work.   Connect with Dr. Ben Thayil LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbenthayil/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbenthayil/] Website: http://www.LeadOD.com [http://www.LeadOD.com]