The Lounge by Sarah Kalmeta

This is The Lounge with Sarah Kalmeta! In this episode, financial expert and wealth strategist Robyn Thompson shares her inspiring journey from growing up in poverty to becoming a self-made millionaire. Robyn’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of financial literacy in transforming lives. She dives into the power of female-driven economics, emphasizing that wealth is...

In this episode, we’re joined by embodiment expert Mark Walsh, also known as "Mr. Embodiment," for a deep dive into resilience and the power of embodiment in our everyday lives. From teaching over 2000 embodiment coaches across the globe to setting up trauma and embodiment training in Ukraine, Mark shares his fascinating journey and how embodied practices can help you handle life's challenges with...

In this episode, we dive into how challenges in life can also open doors to incredible opportunities. Join us as we discuss navigating personal struggles, bringing equity into missions of tomorrow, and the unique way introverts can lead with purpose and impact. Our guest, RET, shares their journey from childhood to becoming an influential leader in space education and preservation. Guest Spotlight...

In this empowering episode of The Lounge by Pivot Point, Sarah Kalmeta sits down with Kodey Bogart, the CEO of KB Solutions, LLC, and a decorated military veteran, to dive deep into the power of self-belief and how to cultivate it. Kodey shares her journey of pivoting from a distinguished military career to becoming an influential aviation safety expert, and how building confidence has been the ke...

In this inspiring episode of The Lounge by Pivot Point, Sarah Kalmeta sits down with Katherine Ayre, a trailblazer in both law and aviation, to discuss the courage it takes to take flight in any endeavor. Katherine shares her groundbreaking work as the first Canadian lawyer to merge municipal risk and aviation law, and her passion for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) as a transformative force for conne...

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Katie McDonald, a wellness expert, plant-based nutrition advocate, and self-care guru, who shares her powerful transformation from corporate burnout to becoming an advocate for lifelong self-care. Katie opens up about how abandoning the demands of her corporate career and embracing holistic health allowed her to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally, ulti...

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Justin Maxwell, a financial expert passionate about helping business owners save money and plug their financial leaks. Justin’s focus is on personal cash flow, debt repayment strategies, and how shifting your focus to the wealth you’ve already created can pave the way for true financial independence. For Justin, it’s not just about the money—it’s about the per...

In this episode, Sarah chats with Alison Arrak Mattos, a true pioneer whose career spans marine biology, aquaculture, investment banking, and adventure & luxury travel. Alison is the founder of Blue Yūgen Inc., a consultancy that helps organizations tackle real-world problems through innovative products, technology, and experiences in diverse industries, including space, aviation, and exploration....

In this episode, Sarah is joined by Francesca Zampaglione, a CPA turned stylist, entrepreneur, and public speaker, who shares her powerful journey of embracing vulnerability and the courage to reinvent herself. Francesca opens up about uncovering the stories that shape who we are, and how showing up with gratitude can empower you in ways you didn’t think possible. From her transformation into a st...

In this exciting episode, Sarah chats with Sierra Lund, an aircraft broker, business owner, and pilot, who shares her unique journey into the world of business aviation. Sierra takes us through the highs and lows of starting her own business in aviation, and how her early experiences, like an engine failure on her first solo flight, shaped her resilience and passion for sharing aviation with other...

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 Au...

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 pat...

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 see...

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....

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 civi...

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...

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, revi...

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, revi...

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 als...

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 intimid...

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked aspects of safety in both aviation and life with Tim Wade, the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety at Flexjet. Tim shares his insights on the hidden dangers in aviation that can often be missed, and why psychological safety in the workplace is just as critical as physical safety. With a career in aviation dating back to 2007, starting with...

In this episode, we dive deep into the power of resilience and the importance of discipline and purpose in overcoming adversity. Rich Ingram, an ultramarathon athlete, combat-wounded veteran, and former Army officer, shares his inspiring journey and how leaders can cultivate resilience in their organizations. Rich discusses how the combination of purpose, mindset, and process is essential to overc...

In this episode, we explore how Purpose and Discipline are inseparable keys to living a legendary life with Frank Kellogg, a dynamic speaker, trainer, and mentor. Frank’s journey has taken him from being an electrician to a martial arts instructor, and from an accountant to an inspirational fitness personality. We dive deep into the importance of combining purpose with discipline and discuss how a...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of leadership, advocacy, and personal responsibility with Cheryl L. Mason, the first woman and military spouse Chairman of the VA Board of Veterans' Appeals. Cheryl shares her incredible journey of overcoming adversity, transforming the Veterans Affairs agency, and advocating for veterans, military families, and suicide awareness. We explore t...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of storytelling and how the stories we tell shape both our personal and professional lives. Chris Hare, founder of The Storied Future, shares his expertise in helping CEOs and leaders transform their organizations through narrative. We discuss how a well-crafted story can drive success, why a people-centric approach is crucial for business gro...