When Life Hits Pause: Lessons from Open Heart Surgery and Second Chances with Dr. David Geffen
In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with veteran optometrist Dr. David I. Geffen for a reflective and wide ranging conversation about longevity, leadership, and the moments that reshape how we see life.
With more than 40 years in practice, Dr. Geffen shares both the professional lessons and deeply personal experiences that have defined his journey. One of the most profound moments came just a year prior, when he underwent open heart surgery, an experience that forced him to confront mortality and reevaluate what truly matters.
The conversation explores how life changing events can act as a reset, bringing clarity around health, family, and perspective. Dr. Geffen reflects on what it means to continue living with intention after being given a second chance.
Leadership is another key theme. Early in his career, he believed he needed to control every detail of his practice. Over time, he realized that true growth came from letting go, trusting his team, and empowering others to step into their roles.
Beyond career, the episode highlights the richness of life through family, particularly the joy he finds in spending time with his grandchildren, and the simple daily routines, like music and learning something new, that bring lasting fulfillment.
Katie adds her own perspective, sharing her journey of finding her voice, managing stress, and embracing personal storytelling through her podcast and writing.
Together, they explore what it means to outgrow old versions of ourselves, stay curious, and continue evolving, no matter how long you have been in your profession.
This episode is a powerful reminder that success is not just about longevity. It is about growth, perspective, and continuing to find meaning in both the big moments and the everyday ones.
Key Takeaways
Life changing moments redefine priorities
Major health events can create a pause that brings clarity to what truly matters, including health, family, and how we choose to spend our time.
Great leadership requires letting go of control
Trying to manage everything yourself can limit growth. Trusting and empowering your team allows both the business and the leader to evolve.
Lifelong learning keeps life and work meaningful
Curiosity, learning new skills, and staying engaged are what keep both career and life fulfilling, even after decades of experience.
Quotes from the Episode
“When you go into an OR… you think, I might not wake up.”
“I thought I had to control everything… and that’s what was holding my practice back.”
“If I stop learning, that’s when it’s time to stop.”
About Dr. David Geffen
Dr. David I. Geffen is a board certified optometrist and Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry with more than 40 years of experience in clinical care, research, and education.
He serves as Director of Optometric and Refractive Services at the Gordon Schanzlin New Vision Institute in La Jolla, California, where he specializes in refractive and cataract surgery co management, specialty contact lenses, and advanced anterior segment care.
A nationally recognized speaker, Dr. Geffen has delivered over 500 presentations and authored more than 100 publications in leading industry journals. He has also led more than 50 clinical trials with some of the world’s top ophthalmic and contact lens companies.
Known for advancing collaborative care between optometry and ophthalmology, he continues to shape the future of eye care through innovation, education, and mentorship.
Connect with Dr. David Geffen
Website https://www.gwsvision.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lasiksandiego?ref=ts
Instagram https://instagram.com/gwsvision/
WATCH EPISODE
YouTube: https://youtu.be/kepp1BQH1wQ
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