The Lounge by Sarah Kalmeta

In this episode, we explore the importance of psychological safety in the workplace and how it’s crucial for fostering positive, high-performing teams. Kayla, the founder of Humanity HR Consulting, shares her insights on the new paradigms of business, employee preferences around work-life balance, and why every company must prioritize psychological safety to create a thriving organizational cultur...

In this episode, we explore how chasing discomfort can lead to greater growth and success, even in the face of life-altering setbacks. Cran Middlecoat, an aviator, survivor, and motivator, shares his incredible journey from flying jet airliners to facing the devastating end of his airline pilot career due to a serious medical condition. Despite being diagnosed with an Arachnoid Cystic Brain Lesion...

In this episode, we delve into the power of storytelling and its ability to transform our understanding of the world, especially when it comes to space exploration. Alice Carruth, the producer of the T-Minus Space Daily Podcast, shares her journey from television producer to space communications expert, and how she brings the cosmos to life through captivating narratives. We discuss the importance...

In this episode, we explore how doing what you love not only creates a future worth embracing for yourself, but also helps others along the way. Mike Mongo, astronaut teacher and founder of the TRU5T Ambassadors Kid Astronaut Program, joins us to discuss his unconventional journey and mission to inspire kids to dream big and shoot for the stars. We dive into the exciting world of astronautics, AI,...

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of curiosity and how following it can lead to unexpected pivots in life and career. Sarah Scoles, a freelance science journalist and contributing editor at Scientific American, joins us to share her journey from hard sciences to fiction writing, to education, and finally to the fascinating world of science journalism. We dive into the balance be...

In this episode, Sarah and Jamie face a series of technical challenges and minimal white space before going live—so instead of stressing, they decided to have some fun! Join us for an impromptu, light-hearted conversation full of laughs, spontaneous insights, and a reminder that sometimes, it’s best to just go with the flow. Perfect for a Friday vibe, this episode is all about embracing the unexpe...

In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Colonel Merryl Tengesdal (ret), the first and only African American woman to pilot the U-2 "Dragon Lady" in the United States Air Force. Merryl shares her inspiring story of overcoming adversity, fighting resistance, and leading with discipline. We discuss her journey from electrical engineering to aviation, the power of embracing fear and gr...

“Music in the soul can be heard by the Universe.” — Lao Tzu In this episode, Sarah welcomes Grammy®-winning producer and arranger Brent Fischer to the lounge. Brent carries on the legacy of his legendary father, Dr. Clare Fischer, and has worked with some of the biggest names in music, from Usher to Michael Jackson. Together, they dive into the importance of integrating the arts into STEM educatio...

“Never stop dreaming.” — Paulo Coelho In this episode, Sarah sits down with Salam Abualhayjaa, a mechanical engineer specializing in spacesuit design and 3D modeling for mechanical assemblies. Salam shares her passion for space exploration, the journey that led her to design seven different spacesuits, and how she continues to merge her engineering expertise with her love for science communication...

“We need the brilliance and innovation of all people to face today’s challenges and to succeed at our extraordinary ambitions. Be part of the solution!” — Nancy A. Levenson, Deputy Director, Space Telescope Science Institute In this episode, Sarah chats with Samantha Dolski, a third-year aerospace engineering student at the University of Texas at Austin and the Director of Operations at the Texas...

“To strive, to seek, to find; and not to yield.” — Ulysses by Alfred, Lord Tennyson In this episode, Sarah sits down with Tristan Punnett, a true storyteller and aviation enthusiast whose career has taken some unconventional turns. From his roots in the Caribbean to his time as an actor in Pirates of the Caribbean and later, his journey into aviation, Tristan’s story is a testament to the magic of...

“Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.” — Leonardo Da Vinci In this special episode, Sarah is joined by two inspiring young cadets, Ellie Flick and Matthew Gaikins, from the Red Tail Cadet Program. These cadets share their life-changing experiences with the program, and how it h...

“Be bold enough to choose your own path and strong enough to follow it.” - Anonymous In this episode, Sarah engages in an enlightening conversation with Scott A. Moore, a true pioneer in blending science, philosophy, and leadership. From his career as a military aviator to becoming a certified coach and human leadership guru, Scott shares his journey of pivoting through life’s various stages. He o...

“Why, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” - Alice in Wonderland In this episode, Sarah sits down with Dr. Greg Hodgin, a visionary CEO, peacebuilder, and scientist, to explore the art of believing in—and achieving—the impossible. Dr. Hodgin shares his fascinating journey, from tackling complex science to making humanitarian strides on the global stage. Toget...

“Surround yourself with the dreamers and the doers, the believers and thinkers, but most of all surround yourself with those who see greatness within you.” - Anonymous In this special pre-recorded episode for International Women’s Day, Sarah sits down with the inspiring Stephanie Goetz—a modern-day renaissance woman and a true giver back to her community. As an Emmy-nominated news anchor turned pr...

“Success isn’t just about what you accomplish in your life, it’s about what you inspire others to do.” - Anonymous In this inspiring episode, Sarah sits down with Kim Kissh, a trailblazing female pilot who is not only leading the way in business aviation but also advocating for more women to take to the skies. Kim shares her unconventional journey into aviation, the power of community, and the imp...

“Our species can only survive if we have obstacles to overcome. You remove those obstacles. Without them to strengthen us, we will weaken and die.” - Captain Kirk In this exciting episode, Sarah is joined by Rod Roddenberry, CEO of Roddenberry Entertainment and founder of The Roddenberry Foundation. Rod shares the legacy of his father, the iconic Gene Roddenberry, and how the philosophy behind Sta...

“Trade your expectations for appreciation, and the world changes instantly.” - Tony Robbins In this episode, Sarah welcomes Dave Scheu, an aviation operations and business executive with a remarkable career spanning military service, corporate aviation, and strategic leadership. Dave shares his insights on navigating pivotal moments, building modern aviation teams, and fostering mentorship. What Y...

“I exist as I am, that is enough.” - Walt Whitman In this episode, Sarah invites Ashley Taylor, founder of Born of Ashes LLC, to share her incredible journey of transformation, resilience, and service. From battling wildfires to piloting planes and now serving as a mental and emotional wellness coach, Ashley’s story is a testament to the power of self-discovery and living in alignment with your tr...

"Every action is a performance." - Andrew Davenport In this episode, Sarah welcomes Certified Mental Performance Consultant Mark Cheney to share his insights and strategies on optimizing performance in life. Whether you're an athlete, a leader, or someone looking to elevate your daily actions, this conversation will provide valuable tools to help you perform at your best. What You’ll Learn: How to...

"Your attitude, not your aptitude, determines your altitude." - Zig Ziglar In this empowering episode, Sarah is joined by Jason Ballard, a decorated military veteran, business coach, and a beacon of resilience and leadership. From overcoming a challenging upbringing and life-threatening situations to leading award-winning organizations and becoming one of the nation’s top business coaches, Jason’s...

“Pivoting is not the end of the disruption process, but the beginning of the next leg of your journey.” - Jay Samit In this episode, Sarah sits down with Clayton Corn, whose life is a testament to the power of reinvention. From playing alongside legends like Willie Nelson and ZZ Top to becoming a voting member of the GRAMMYS, Clayton spent over 25 years in the entertainment industry before pivotin...

"Creativity is intelligence having fun." - Albert Einstein In this episode, Sarah chats with Alex Ruiz, a creative powerhouse whose journey spans from animating Homer Simpson and contributing to Marvel blockbusters to creating art that heals and transforms. Alex’s story showcases the profound power of creativity to shape our lives, heal our wounds, and connect us to something greater. Tune in to d...

As 2024 approaches, many of us reflect on the past year and envision what we want to create for the next. In this Special Edition episode, Sarah welcomes her first-ever repeat guest, the remarkable Cristina Star, founder of Cosmic Citizen Trainings. Together, they dive into: Why most New Year’s resolutions fail How leaders and high achievers can avoid common pitfalls in making lasting change The C...

In this empowering episode of The Lounge, Sarah sits down with Ericka Glorious Moore—motivational speaker, best-selling author, mental health coach, and entrepreneur—to dive deep into: Mental Health for High Achievers: How to take care of your mind like you would your body. Finding Hope and Perseverance: Turning life’s toughest challenges into your superpower. The Power of Laughter: Using humor to...