Trusting the Path: Faith, Purpose, and the Power of Saying Yes with Dr. Ryan Corte
In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with optometrist and practice owner Dr. Ryan Corte for an engaging and reflective conversation that blends storytelling with meaningful self exploration.
Recorded in Tampa during a professional training event, this episode follows the podcast’s signature “soft shoes and hard shoes” format, guiding both guests through questions that uncover identity, growth, purpose, and defining life moments.
Dr. Corte shares his journey from growing up in the Midwest to building a multi location practice in North Carolina. He reflects on the leap of faith it took to leave what was familiar and step into something uncertain, as well as the early experiences that shaped his leadership mindset. One pivotal moment came during optometry school, where losing a leadership role challenged his assumptions and pushed him to embrace preparation, humility, and personal accountability.
Katie shares her own deeply personal reflections, particularly around her evolving sense of purpose later in life. She speaks openly about navigating uncertainty, redefining what her next chapter looks like, and building a purpose driven ecosystem that extends beyond patient care into storytelling, faith, and creative impact.
Together, they explore how life’s challenges shape identity, from career decisions to personal struggles. The conversation highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with positive energy, embracing vulnerability, and recognizing that growth often comes from moments of discomfort, humility, and risk.
At its core, this episode is about becoming intentional, choosing growth over comfort, and trusting that even uncertain steps can lead exactly where you are meant to be.
Key Takeaways
Growth often begins with humility and self awareness
Early challenges can reveal blind spots and create the opportunity to develop discipline, preparation, and a stronger leadership mindset.
Purpose evolves and requires intentional action
Finding meaning is not a one time decision. It is an ongoing process that often requires stepping into new roles and redefining impact over time.
Taking risks leads to growth
Whether it is moving, investing in a business, or starting something new, the moments that feel uncertain often become the most defining.
Quotes from the Episode
“I can’t keep going on just expecting things… I need to put in the work.”
“I realized I needed to figure out what my purpose in life is.”
“Sometimes it’s a leap of faith… and you trust that it’s leading you where you’re meant to be.”
About Dr. Ryan Corte
Dr. Ryan Corte is the owner of Reflect Vision Care, a multi location optometry practice serving Charlotte and Asheville, North Carolina.
He is known for integrating the latest contact lens technology and delivering high quality care to patients of all ages. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Corte actively supports other eye care professionals in growing and strengthening their practices through education, training, and mentorship.
He is a speaker and educator within the optometric industry, contributing to training programs, podcasts, product launches, and doctor led sessions focused on innovation, practice growth, and patient care.
As the founder of Ryan Reflects, he is passionate about both doctor and consumer education, helping people better understand eye health and the business of optometry.
Outside of work, Dr. Corte enjoys working out and spending time with his wife, children, family, and friends
Connect with Dr. Ryan Corte
Website https://www.ryancorte.com/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancorte/
Instagram https://instagram.com/RyanReflects/
WATCH EPISODE
YouTube: https://youtu.be/v6YJtyHL6UI
Spotify:
Apple Podcasts:
Amazon Music: