Sarah, says, "like everybody, I have been through some trauma and come out stronger on the other side of it." She lost her mother as a teenager in a car accident. At the time she was entering college she decided to do what she "liked to do" and got an English degree because of her passion for reading.

She later worked in admissions at a college that focuses on the music and film industry. After that she found herself working for her "future husband." Although their relationship didn't start until years later after the working relationship ending. She remet Steven at a networking event. They went for a walk one morning. She wasn't aware it was a date. Nine months later they were married.

She talks about the early days of Rockstar Connect and her involvement in the development of many of the processes and courses that allowed them to grow. They started with five events and last year they did 811 live events across the country. 

We talked about how social media can be emotionally draining and tips for using it intentionally. 

Sarah shares about what makes Rockstar Connect different from many of the other networking events. 

• They are free
• They are fun
• They are casual

We talk about the social anxiety that many people feel about networking at a networking event. Sarah Mandras shares her story about getting over her fear and how the universe rewards courage and the difference that networking can make in her business.

We talk about the "magic" that comes from networking. 

COVID-19 has made running events, well, complicated. Rockstar Connect has pivoted to virtual events and looking forward to offering in-person networking again. The need to pivot was really sink-or-swim for a company like Rockstar. The first few were, as Sarah described, "loud zooms." But they quickly got a process in place and a structure that maximizes the virtual environment for networking.

Sharing successes is a discipline that is incredibly effective for business owners. Hearing the stories of others, and sharing your own can be hard, but it's a big step toward success. You can share your success without sounding arrogance if you make sure it is grounded in gratefulness.

Sarah describes their next endeavors and non-profit work. 

As parents, the Girls Who Do Stuff and Sarah discuss the online schooling and the dreaded "screen-time" conversation. Virtual Academy, learning centers, and homeschool options feel overwhelming right now.

Find out more about RockstarConnect by visiting their website or call at (800) 205-2327 or Carefreeclosing.com her new venture.