In this episode of Chu on This!, Dr. Katie W. Chu sits down with longtime Oakley leader Kyle Lan Franco for an honest conversation about resilience, identity, persistence, mental health, and rebuilding yourself when life doesn't go according to plan.

Kyle shares the persistence that eventually landed him a role at Oakley after around 20 interviews, beginning a career that has now lasted almost 17 years. He and Katie discuss saying yes to opportunities, trying things before you feel completely ready, and refusing to let fear decide what's possible.

The conversation becomes more personal as both reflect on periods when they lost their sense of identity. Katie shares her experience of rebuilding after an abusive marriage and breast cancer, while Kyle talks about reaching a point where he had to look in the mirror and ask himself what he needed to change to feel happy again.

Together, they speak openly about anxiety, depression, therapy, vulnerability, and the reality that healing doesn't have a perfect finish line.

This episode is a reminder that difficult experiences may change you, but they don't have to define what's possible next. Sometimes rebuilding begins by accepting who you are today and having the courage to keep moving forward.

Rebuilding doesn't mean going backwards. Growth isn't always about becoming the person you used to be. Sometimes it's about accepting who you've become and deciding who you want to be next.

Vulnerability creates connection. Katie and Kyle's openness about anxiety, depression, and healing shows how powerful it can be to discover you're not alone.

Persistence can change your life. Kyle went through around 20 interviews before getting his opportunity with Oakley. Almost 17 years later, his story proves the value of continuing to knock on the door.

“I had to look in the mirror and reset and reevaluate what I needed to do to be happy.”

“There's a moment of darkness. You're down. But a black eye heals.”

“We're not done yet.”

Kyle Lan Franco has spent more than 15 years building his career with Oakley, one of the world's most recognized and innovative eyewear brands.

After earning his MBA in 2015, Kyle has focused on developing strong business partnerships, driving growth, and building teams that deliver results. He is passionate about the relationships he has built throughout his career and the opportunity to represent a brand he genuinely believes in.

Outside of work, Kyle loves spending time in the mountains and taking every opportunity he can to get out on the snow.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanfranco/