In this powerful episode, Sarah sits down with Martin Schwartz, founder of Vehicles for Change (VFC), to discuss how he is tackling generational poverty, recidivism, and workforce development through innovative programs. Martin shares his journey from launching VFC in 1999 to revolutionizing auto mechanic training with virtual reality. He also highlights his successful programs like Full Circle Auto Repair, which has trained hundreds of formerly incarcerated individuals for high-paying careers, boasting an impressive 5% recidivism rate.

Guest Spotlight:

Name: Martin Schwartz

Bio: Martin Schwartz is the founder and CEO of Vehicles for Change (VFC), an organization dedicated to changing lives by awarding cars to low-income individuals and offering auto mechanic training to formerly incarcerated people. With over 20 years of experience, Martin has expanded VFC across multiple states, helping over 27,000 people and creating high-paying careers for over 220 graduates. His programs have received national acclaim, with VFC being called "the most innovative auto technician training program in America" by the National Auto Dealers Association. Martin is also a recognized social entrepreneur, having received numerous awards for his work in social justice and workforce development.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction to Martin Schwartz – Overview of Martin’s journey and the launch of Vehicles for Change.

[05:00:00] The Impact of Generational Poverty – Martin discusses the root causes of generational poverty and the role of vehicles and employment in breaking the cycle.

[12:00:00] The Criminal Justice System and Recidivism – Insights into the broken system and how VFC’s Full Circle Auto Repair program is providing hope and high-paying jobs for formerly incarcerated individuals.

[20:00:00] Virtual Reality and Workforce Development – Martin explains how VFC-VR is transforming auto mechanic training and why it’s revolutionizing the industry.

[28:00:00] Inspiring Change – Martin shares success stories of VFC graduates and the long-term impact of providing opportunities to underserved communities.

[35:00:00] The Power of Community and Service – Reflecting on the importance of kindness, service, and justice in creating lasting societal change.

[40:00:00] Closing Thoughts – How you can take action in your own community to support change and uplift others.

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, where we dive deep into transformative stories and insights to help you navigate life’s pivots. In each episode, we bring you inspiring guests from all walks of life to share new perspectives, mindsets, and strategies for overcoming obstacles and creating lasting impact. Whether you’re facing personal challenges, professional crossroads, or just looking for new inspiration, The Lounge is here to help you shift your perspective and take your next big step.

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In this episode, we explore the transformative power of quitting, self-discovery, and living authentically. Join Sarah and Lloyd Banks as they discuss his journey of building a successful business empire, only to walk away from it in search of true happiness. Lloyd shares his story of pivoting from a life of success to one of fulfillment, reflecting on his battle with MS and the unconventional path that led him to a more meaningful life. This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the key to happiness is letting go of what no longer serves you.

Guest Spotlight:

Name: Lloyd Banks

Bio: For over two decades, Lloyd Banks built, managed, and sold successful nightclubs, restaurants, and bars across Texas. A natural entrepreneur, Lloyd had a keen eye for talent and razor-sharp negotiation skills, making him a shark in the entertainment industry. Despite his business success, Lloyd realized that he was miserable, prompting him to walk away from it all in search of a life that truly mattered. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2020, Lloyd underwent a transformative stem cell transplant treatment and has since focused on personal growth and self-empowerment. He now helps others discover their own path to happiness through his platform, Lloyd Speaks.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction and Episode Theme – Meet Lloyd Banks and hear about his journey to quitting everything that didn’t align with his true happiness.

[05:00:00] Building and Selling Businesses – Lloyd shares his experience in the nightlife and restaurant industries and the highs and lows of running multiple successful businesses.

[15:00:00] The Power of Quitting – Why walking away from success can be the first step toward real fulfillment, and how quitting led Lloyd to a better life.

[25:00:00] Living Authentically – Lloyd’s battle with Multiple Sclerosis and how it shifted his perspective on life, business, and happiness.

[35:00:00] Helping Others Pivot – How Lloyd now empowers others to embrace unconventional paths and find the courage to quit what no longer serves them.

[40:00:00] Closing Thoughts – Reflecting on the importance of quitting with purpose, and the freedom that comes from making bold decisions for your happiness.

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, where we kick back, relax, and nourish your mind before pivoting toward your next destination. Each episode is designed to inspire and empower you to embrace change, explore new perspectives, and find fulfillment. We bring guests from diverse industries and backgrounds to share their stories and insights, helping you navigate life's pivots and opportunities with confidence.

Sponsored By:

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In this episode, we break down barriers and explore the intersection of space exploration, queer identities, and overcoming adversity. Join Sarah and Inara Tabir, a trans woman and former foster child, as they discuss non-traditional paths to space, the realities of being a foster kid, and the importance of inclusivity in space. Inara shares her journey into the space industry, how she bridges seemingly unrelated sectors like fashion and Hollywood with space exploration, and her vision for human settlement beyond Earth. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about breaking illusions, disrupting industries, and creating space for marginalized communities in the great beyond.

Guest Spotlight:

Name: Inara Tabir

Bio: Inara Tabir is a trans woman, former foster child, and space industry advocate focused on human settlement beyond Earth. She works to disrupt traditional industries, connecting space exploration with fields like fashion, luxury, and Hollywood. With a passion for inclusivity and advocacy, Inara is dedicated to ensuring that marginalized communities, including former foster kids, are represented in the future of space exploration. She firmly believes that scarcity ends where space begins, and her ultimate goal is to help humanity migrate to and settle on Mars.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction and Episode Theme – Meet Inara and hear about her unique journey into space exploration.

[05:00:00] Queer People in Space – Discussing the challenges and opportunities for queer individuals in the space industry.

[15:00:00] Non-Traditional Paths to Space – How Inara's unconventional career path helped her break into space, and why it matters for diversity in the industry.

[25:00:00] The Realities of Being a Foster Child – Inara’s experience growing up in foster care and how it influences her advocacy for marginalized communities in space.

[35:00:00] SpaceKind and the Human Future Beyond Earth – How Inara is working to create inclusive opportunities for future space explorers and settlers.

[40:00:00] Closing Thoughts – Inara's vision for the future of space, and why Mars is "home" for her.

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, where we kick back, relax, and nourish your mind before pivoting toward your next destination. Each episode explores how change can lead to powerful transformations in life and work. Here, we talk about the perspectives, mindsets, and habits that drive personal and professional growth, helping you navigate life’s pivots with inspiration and empowerment.

Sponsored By:

WHOOP: Get 30 Free Days and Optimize Your Performance

Call to Action:

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Welcome back to The Lounge after our summer hiatus! We’re kicking things off with a powerhouse guest—Jo Damato, Senior Vice President of Education, Training & Workforce Development for NBAA (National Business Aviation Association). In this episode, we dive into the important topic of workforce caregiving, its impact on teams and industries, and the invaluable benefits of coaching and volunteering.

Jo’s journey in aviation spans decades, from her first flight lesson as a teenager to leading industry initiatives today. We explore:

In addition to her impressive career, Jo’s a mom, wife, and a 26.2 x 6 marathon runner—plus, a passionate Phillies Phan! She’s got a lot of wisdom to share about balance, leadership, and finding fulfillment in both your personal and professional life.

Guest Spotlight: Joanne "Jo" Damato

Jo Damato has been an aviation professional since taking her first flight lesson as a teenager. She holds a B.S. in Aviation Management/Flight Option Specialization from the Florida Institute of Technology and a Masters in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle. Jo also holds several aviation certifications, including a Certified Flight Instructor and Certified Aviation Manager.

As the SVP of Education, Training & Workforce Development at NBAA, Jo is a recognized leader in aviation workforce development. She is also a founder of Sky Hope Network, an organization that uses business aviation to help respond to urgent medical needs. Jo has long been an advocate for women in aviation and has contributed to Aviation for Women Magazine through her column, “The Juggling Act,” which tackles the work-life balance of aviation households.

When Jo isn’t helping shape the future of aviation, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, running marathons, and cheering on the Philadelphia Phillies. Her ideal place in the world? Home, surrounded by her family.

Links:

• LinkedIn: Jo Damato

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Introduction – Jo’s background in aviation and her role at NBAA

[05:00] The impact of workforce caregiving on team dynamics and productivity

[12:30] The importance of coaching for personal and professional growth

[20:00] Volunteering as a career tool: Jo’s experience with Sky Hope Network and Patient Air Lift Services

[28:00] Managing work-life balance: Jo’s insights on being a mom, wife, and marathon runner

[35:00] The role of women in aviation and why it’s crucial to foster diversity in the industry

[40:00] Final thoughts: Jo’s advice for anyone in leadership or workforce development

[45:00] Wrap-up and Jo’s take on staying resilient in high-pressure careers

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In this episode, we explore the importance of curiosity in science and how it can drive innovation. Join Sarah and Maynard Okereke, aka the Hip Hop M.D., an award-winning science communicator, as they discuss the evolving perception of STEM fields and scientists, the need for more diversity in science, and how anyone can get involved in the scientific frontier. Maynard shares his journey from civil engineering to creating Hip Hop Science, a platform designed to make science accessible and engaging, especially for minority communities. Tune in for a fun, informative conversation about how curiosity can shape our future and why representation matters in STEM.

Guest Spotlight:

Name: Maynard Okereke

Bio: Maynard Okereke, known as the Hip Hop M.D., is a civil engineering graduate and an award-winning science communicator. With a background in engineering, acting, music, and business, Maynard bridges entertainment and education to make science engaging and accessible. He is the founder of Hip Hop Science, which aims to encourage minorities and youth to pursue advanced careers in STEM fields. Maynard has been recognized with the Asteroid Award for "Best Streaming Content" and the People of Change Award for his community outreach efforts.

Links:

Episode Highlights

[00:00:00] Intro and Episode Theme – Meet Maynard Okereke, the Hip Hop M.D.

[05:30:00] STEM and Perceptions of "A Scientist" – Breaking down stereotypes and making science more inclusive.

[15:00:00] The Scientific Frontier – How anyone, regardless of background, can get involved in STEM.

[25:00:00] Access, Exposure, and Equality – The importance of diversity and access for a brighter scientific future.

[35:00:00] Maynard's Passion for Nature – Finding peace in nature and how it inspires his work in science communication.

[40:00:00] Closing Thoughts – Why curiosity is nature's PhD and how you can make a difference in STEM.

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, where we kick back, relax, and nourish your mind before pivoting towards your next destination. Each episode explores the transformative power of change, and how your pivot can unlock new opportunities. Here, we dive deep into topics ranging from personal growth to professional development, all while focusing on how your perspective can fuel your next big move. We bring you inspiring conversations with guests from diverse industries and backgrounds, helping you navigate the challenges of life and work.

Call to Action:

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In this powerful and lighthearted episode of The Lounge, we’re joined by Ashlee Leppart, an honored veteran, author, and speaker, who shares her journey of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of finding a mentor. Ashlee’s story is a testament to overcoming life’s toughest chapters and facing fears head-on — from her service in the military to navigating a solo cross-country journey that led to love and new adventures.

Ashlee discusses:

Key Highlights of the Episode:

Guest Spotlight:

Ashlee Leppart

Ashlee is a veteran, author, and inspirational speaker who has dedicated her life to helping others rise above their circumstances and build resilience. With a background in aviation, she has over 1,000 hours flying the MH-65 Dolphin, and her career as a search and rescue pilot includes working through some of the most intense and emotional situations possible. Ashlee’s book, The Hurricane Within, details her personal journey of transformation and how she found strength in the face of adversity.

Ashlee is also the founder of the Be Resilient Programme, a powerful initiative designed to help people in high-stress environments, like military and first responders, learn how to cultivate emotional resilience. When she’s not speaking, writing, or coaching, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and dog at their secluded cabin in the mountains.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction – Ashlee shares her story and journey from veteran to author and speaker

[05:15] Ashlee talks about SOF Missions and how the Be Resilient Programme helps people in high-stress roles

[15:30] The pivotal moments in Ashlee’s life that led her to her solo cross-country journey

[22:00] Ashlee reflects on how she overcame her fear of heights and became a search and rescue pilot

[30:00] The importance of mentorship in leadership and self-discovery

[35:00] Ashlee’s quirky hobbies: ping pong champion, golfing right-handed, and more!

[42:00] Wrap-up: Ashlee shares advice for those looking to build resilience and find guidance on their journey

[47:00] Fun Alien question – We had to cut off the transmission... or maybe we were onto something!

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For the first time ever in The Lounge, the tables are turned! Sarah the Pivoter and Sean Patton, both graduates of Heroic Public Speaking, interview each other in this special episode. Have you ever wondered about the stories behind the hosts? Well, this is your chance to find out!

In this conversation, Sarah and Sean explore how the ability to pivot is a superpower that can help you reframe, revitalise, and improve your life and career. They open up about their origin stories, share the pivots they've experienced, and talk about how they navigated through life’s challenges.

This episode is split into two parts, so be sure to tune in for Part 2 coming soon!

Key Highlights of the Episode:

Guest Spotlight:

Sean Patton

Sean is the host of the No Limits Leadership Podcast and founder of Stronger Leaders Stronger Profits. With a background as a US Army Airborne Ranger and Special Forces Green Beret Commander, Sean knows firsthand the importance of leadership in challenging, high-stress environments. Through his coaching company, Sean has helped organizations unlock their potential and build stronger, more effective leadership teams.

Links:

Sarah Kalmeta (Sarah the Pivoter)

Sarah is an internationally acclaimed speaker and leadership coach, widely recognized for her ability to redefine change and how we relate to it. With a career that spans across high-stakes environments such as aviation and aerospace, Sarah empowers individuals and organizations to navigate transitions with resilience and strategic planning. She is also passionate about mental health, well-being, and STE(A)M education.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction – Sarah and Sean turn the tables!

[03:10] Sean’s journey from Army Airborne Ranger to Leadership Coach

[10:00] Sarah’s experience living abroad and as a competitive athlete

[15:30] What does pivoting mean to Sarah and Sean?

[21:00] Key turning points in their careers and life transitions

[28:00] Embracing discomfort and building resilience

[33:00] Leadership insights from Sean’s military and coaching experiences

[40:00] Sarah’s holistic approach to coaching and personal development

[46:00] Wrap-up and teaser for Part 2 of the conversation!

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, the place to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate before taking your next leap. In The Lounge, we believe that change is GOOD, and the PIVOT is your superpower. Every episode brings you new perspectives, strategies, and mindsets to help you grow in life, leadership, and beyond.

Remember, the pivot is the door to your next opportunity. With each guest, we share their journey and wisdom on how to embrace change and unlock your potential!

Sponsored By:

WHOOP: https://lnkd.in/ezQzedaC – Get 30 Free Days and Optimize Your Performance

Call to Action:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time ever in The Lounge, the tables are turned! Sarah the Pivoter and Sean Patton, both graduates of Heroic Public Speaking, interview each other in this special episode. Have you ever wondered about the stories behind the hosts? Well, this is your chance to find out!

In this conversation, Sarah and Sean explore how the ability to pivot is a superpower that can help you reframe, revitalise, and improve your life and career. They open up about their origin stories, share the pivots they've experienced, and talk about how they navigated through life’s challenges.

This episode is split into two parts, so be sure to tune in for Part 2 coming soon!

Key Highlights of the Episode:

Guest Spotlight:

Sean Patton

Sean is the host of the No Limits Leadership Podcast and founder of Stronger Leaders Stronger Profits. With a background as a US Army Airborne Ranger and Special Forces Green Beret Commander, Sean knows firsthand the importance of leadership in challenging, high-stress environments. Through his coaching company, Sean has helped organizations unlock their potential and build stronger, more effective leadership teams.

Links:

Sarah Kalmeta (Sarah the Pivoter)

Sarah is an internationally acclaimed speaker and leadership coach, widely recognized for her ability to redefine change and how we relate to it. With a career that spans across high-stakes environments such as aviation and aerospace, Sarah empowers individuals and organizations to navigate transitions with resilience and strategic planning. She is also passionate about mental health, well-being, and STE(A)M education.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction – Sarah and Sean turn the tables!

[03:10] Sean’s journey from Army Airborne Ranger to Leadership Coach

[10:00] Sarah’s experience living abroad and as a competitive athlete

[15:30] What does pivoting mean to Sarah and Sean?

[21:00] Key turning points in their careers and life transitions

[28:00] Embracing discomfort and building resilience

[33:00] Leadership insights from Sean’s military and coaching experiences

[40:00] Sarah’s holistic approach to coaching and personal development

[46:00] Wrap-up and teaser for Part 2 of the conversation!

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, the place to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate before taking your next leap. In The Lounge, we believe that change is GOOD, and the PIVOT is your superpower. Every episode brings you new perspectives, strategies, and mindsets to help you grow in life, leadership, and beyond.

Remember, the pivot is the door to your next opportunity. With each guest, we share their journey and wisdom on how to embrace change and unlock your potential!

Sponsored By:

WHOOP: https://lnkd.in/ezQzedaC – Get 30 Free Days and Optimize Your Performance

Call to Action:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time ever, the tables turn in The Lounge as Sarah the Pivoter and Sean Patton, fellow graduates from Heroic Public Speaking, interview each other! Curious about Sarah’s and Sean’s personal journeys? This episode is for you!

In a powerful conversation, they explore the concept of pivoting as a superpower—how it can reframe, revitalise, and improve not only your career and life but also help you become a stronger leader. They share their origin stories, the pivots they’ve experienced, and the tools that helped them navigate their way through challenging transitions.

This is the first of a two-part episode, so stay tuned for Part 2 where the conversation continues!

Key Highlights of the Episode:

Guest Spotlight:

Sean Patton

Sean is the host of the No Limits Leadership Podcast and the founder of Stronger Leaders Stronger Profits. A former US Army Airborne Ranger and Special Forces Green Beret Commander, Sean is passionate about transforming modern leadership into a driver of fulfilment, abundance, and freedom. Through his leadership coaching, Sean has helped numerous companies unlock their potential and drive stronger results.

Links:

Sarah Kalmeta (Sarah the Pivoter)

Sarah is an internationally acclaimed speaker, leadership coach, and the host of The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter. Known for her bold and authentic style, Sarah’s expertise lies in helping individuals and organizations navigate transitions, with a special focus on mental health, resilience, and strategic planning. She is committed to helping others excel in high-pressure environments like aviation and aerospace, and she also champions STE(A)M education.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction and the big reveal—Sarah and Sean interview each other!

[03:45] Sean’s leadership journey from Army Airborne Ranger to Executive Coach

[09:00] Sarah’s experience as a competitive athlete and how it shaped her mindset

[15:00] What pivoting really means for career and leadership success

[22:00] Navigating life and career challenges: tools and strategies

[28:00] The value of getting vulnerable in leadership

[34:00] The importance of mindset and resilience in high-stress situations

[40:00] How to leverage discomfort for personal growth

[47:00] Wrap-up and invitation to tune in for Part 2 of the interview

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, your place to kick back, relax, and nourish the mind before you jet off to your next destination. Here, we believe that change is GOOD, and the PIVOT is your superpower. With each episode, we bring you fresh perspectives, mindsets, and habits from fascinating guests around the world to help you design a life and career that you love.

Sponsored By:

WHOOP: https://lnkd.in/ezQzedaC – Get 30 Free Days and Optimize Your Performance

Call to Action:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Sarah and Sabrina for a relaxed and fun-filled episode of The Lounge. In this episode, we let go of the usual hustle and embrace some light-hearted Friday fun! Sabrina, a multi-talented STEM leader, shares her fascinating journey—from designing orbits and trajectories for NASA missions to being the CEO of GIRL IN SPACE. Together, Sarah and Sabrina dive into why STEM doesn’t have to be intimidating, how fashion and fun can be part of science, and why it’s so important to make STEM accessible and engaging for everyone.

With over 12 years of experience in the space industry and a passion for encouraging young girls to explore science, Sabrina brings her energy and enthusiasm to this special episode.

Grab your favorite drink and join us for a little Friday fun, with plenty of inspiration and motivation to fuel your weekend!

Guest Spotlight:

Name: Sabrina

Bio: Sabrina is the CEO of GIRL IN SPACE, where she works to make STEM fun, fashionable, and accessible to all. With over 12 years of experience designing orbits and trajectories for NASA missions, Sabrina is also the Founder of STEMulating Art® and the author of the Girl In Space® series. Sabrina is a strong advocate for encouraging the next generation of girls to explore the wonders of space and STEM through engaging and creative outlets.

Links:

Episode Highlights (Optional - with Timestamps):

[00:00:00] Introduction to Sabrina's background and mission in STEM

[04:30] Designing orbits and trajectories for NASA missions—what it’s really like

[10:00] Making STEM fun and fashionable with GIRL IN SPACE

[15:00] STEMulating Art® and inspiring young girls through creative expression

[20:00] Sabrina's Girl In Space® book series and its impact on young readers

[25:00] The importance of bringing joy into science and education

[30:00] Friday Fun Wrap-Up: Go with the flow!

Podcast Description:

Welcome to The Lounge with Sarah the Pivoter, where we take a step back, relax, and dive into some refreshing conversations with fascinating guests. Whether it’s discussing space missions or how to keep a positive perspective in your career, we believe that every conversation is an opportunity for growth. Here in The Lounge, it’s all about the pivot, the perspective, and making life’s journey an enjoyable one.

Sponsored By:

WHOOP: join.whoop.com/sarahthepivoter – Get 30 Free Days and Optimize Your Performance

Call to Action:

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