From Vision to Impact: Why the Best Leaders Build People First with Mark Saad
In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu welcomes entrepreneur and NuLIDS CEO Mark Saad for a thoughtful conversation about purpose, leadership, family, faith, and the quiet moments that ultimately shape our lives.
While Mark’s professional mission is focused on transforming proactive eye care through innovative technology, the conversation quickly reveals that his true passion extends far beyond business. He shares how helping bring another person’s vision to life has become one of his greatest motivations, describing his role not simply as a CEO, but as someone entrusted with turning meaningful ideas into reality.
Together, Katie and Mark explore the importance of curiosity, authentic human connection, and approaching every relationship without assumptions. Rather than defining people by first impressions, they discuss the value of asking thoughtful questions, listening deeply, and giving genuine conversations the space to unfold.
Katie also opens up about her personal healing journey, reflecting on the words and beliefs she carried from childhood and the freedom she found in learning to release the ones that no longer served her. Mark shares how experiences ranging from family life to professional disappointments, including being rejected from Harvard Business School, ultimately redirected him toward a deeper and more meaningful understanding of success.
Throughout the conversation, both Katie and Mark reflect on faith, parenting, personal growth, and the responsibility we all have to leave a positive imprint on the next generation. They discuss how life’s greatest lessons often arrive quietly, shaping our character long before we recognize their significance.
This episode is a powerful reminder that success is not measured by titles or achievements alone. It is found in the people we influence, the kindness we extend, the stories we share, and the legacy we intentionally build every day.
Key Takeaways
Legacy is built through everyday actions
Katie and Mark reflect on how our greatest impact is rarely created through one major achievement. It is built through the way we treat people, serve others, and influence the generations that follow us.
The stories we tell ourselves shape our future
Katie shares the importance of unlearning harmful beliefs from childhood, while Mark reflects on redefining success after professional disappointment. Growth often begins when we replace limiting narratives with healthier and more truthful ones.
Curiosity creates authentic connection
Meaningful relationships begin when we approach people with genuine interest rather than assumptions. Asking thoughtful questions and listening well can open the door to deeper understanding, trust, and collaboration.
Quotes from the Episode
“I want to leave a positive imprint on the next generation.”
“Sometimes the greatest opportunities come from the disappointments we never expected.”
“Words matter.”
About Mark Saad
Mark Saad is the CEO and a Board Member of NuLIDS, where he leads the company’s growth and works to make its innovative eye care technology accessible to more doctors and patients.
With more than 30 years of experience in health technology, Mark has worked as an executive, venture investor, and investment banker. His background spans corporate finance, strategic growth, company building, and healthcare innovation.
In addition to his role at NuLIDS, Mark serves on the boards of several public and privately held healthcare companies, including Axsome Therapeutics, Presidium Health, and 3×4 Genetics.
Having grown up and begun his career in the Northeast, Mark has spent the past two decades living with his wife and family in San Diego and now Las Vegas. Outside of work, he values time with his wife and their three teenage children and remains passionate about leadership, mentorship, and building companies that create meaningful impact.
Connect with Mark Saad
Website: https://www.nulids.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nulidsdryeye
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getnulids/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getnulids/
LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-saad-2542891/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@getnulids?si=UwQPtwyAAm2RR432
WATCH EPISODE
YouTube: https://youtu.be/xNpGdENuv_4
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