The Route to Success Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/the-route-to-success Success rarely follows a straight line. On The Route to Success, I sit down each week with business owners, nonprofit leaders, founders, and changemakers from different backgrounds to talk about the real stories behind leadership, growth, hope, and resilience. Together, we explore the challenges people do not always see. Burnout. Setbacks. Purpose. Wellness. Asking for help. Starting over. We also talk about the practical tools, decisions, and habits that helped each guest keep moving forward. These are honest, thoughtful conversations. They are not polished stories about perfect success. They are real discussions about what it takes to lead, grow, and find hope during difficult seasons, with plenty of moments to connect and laugh along the way. New episodes are released every Thursday. © 2026 Sara Orellena 8f2bb636-5095-5218-9295-f444d6c32d2e no en Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:00:08 +0100 Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:01:53 +0100 https://img.transistorcdn.com/oDblsEshkcTPvrdsPTdOpe4SqcoGx24YPWowgJdB_dM/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS84YWUx/MDhkOWYyYWI0ZjM5/ZjUyYzY0MTUwZjM1/ZjhjNC5wbmc.jpg The Route to Success episodic Sara Orellena Success rarely follows a straight line. On The Route to Success, I sit down each week with business owners, nonprofit leaders, founders, and changemakers from different backgrounds to talk about the real stories behind leadership, growth, hope, and resilience. Together, we explore the challenges people do not always see. Burnout. Setbacks. Purpose. Wellness. Asking for help. Starting over. We also talk about the practical tools, decisions, and habits that helped each guest keep moving forward. These are honest, thoughtful conversations. They are not polished stories about perfect success. They are real discussions about what it takes to lead, grow, and find hope during difficult seasons, with plenty of moments to connect and laugh along the way. New episodes are released every Thursday. Success rarely follows a straight line. Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope Sara Orellena sara@3raptorconsulting.com No No S02E09 Trust, Trauma, and Transition: A Combat Veterans Guide to Leading Under Pressure | Larry Perino 54 54 S02E09 Trust, Trauma, and Transition: A Combat Veterans Guide to Leading Under Pressure | Larry Perino full f2e7019a-f505-4f6d-b434-dd607ca15882 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b84a6979 Retired Army Ranger officer Larry Perino, who survived the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu depicted in Black Hawk Down, joins host Sara to discuss leadership under extreme pressure, rebuilding purpose after military transition, and his current mission leading commercial and small business banking for veteran-owned businesses at Navy Federal Credit Union. The conversation blends combat stories with practical leadership lessons on trust, culture, emotional regulation, and finding meaningful work.


Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Larry Perino, 25-year Army veteran and Navy Federal Credit Union AVP

01:00 - Larry thanks Sara and the conversation begins

01:38 - How Larry's definition of purpose evolved from military mission to civilian career

03:04 - The free fall of military transition and the search for work-life balance

04:13 - How Larry's wife encouraged him to look into Navy Federal Credit Union

05:14 - Finding a mission-driven culture and becoming proud to call himself "a banker"

06:08 - The scale of the opportunity: 1.8 million veteran-owned businesses, Navy Federal serving only 1%

07:21 - Larry introduces his combat background with Task Force Ranger in Somalia, 1993

07:56 - The fifteen-hour firefight and losing 18 Americans

08:14 - Larry's commitment to telling his fallen comrades' story so they are not forgotten

09:01 - Sara reflects on shared values around memory and legacy

09:39 - Perspective from a small business owner on the value of a good banker

10:36 - The importance of understanding small business owners' financial knowledge gaps

11:34 - The concept of a "good no" and pointing business owners to resources

12:08 - Discussion of mission and culture being intertwined at Navy Federal

12:36 - The value of psychological safety in workplace culture

13:19 - Larry credits leaders who gave him grace and trust throughout his career

14:08 - Larry's "hiring you to solve my problem" philosophy on leadership responsibility

15:07 - Transition into discussing leading under pressure without losing control

15:29 - Larry describes the intensity of the Mogadishu firefight

16:07 - The Ranger Creed and how culture becomes lived reality in crisis

17:36 - Corporal Jamie Smith's wounding and the intensity of the battle

19:26 - Larry describes freezing in fear and the internal dialogue that followed

21:20 - Willing himself to move one step at a time

22:23 - Techniques for self-calming under extreme stress

23:22 - Realizing the danger of becoming "a burden" to the team

24:10 - Story about fellow soldier Jeff Struecker noting Larry's calm radio voice

25:16 - The coping mechanism of focusing on others instead of yourself

27:36 - Never leaving a fallen comrade and finding resilience through trusted teammates

28:13 - Reflecting on how culture and training created calm under fire

29:08 - Discussion of Ranger culture's broader applications to organizations

30:00 - Transition to applying high-stakes lessons to everyday workplace pressure

31:05 - The importance of pausing before reacting, especially with family

32:07 - Keeping perspective: "nobody's dying" but stakes still matter to members

33:00 - Explanation of credit union structure and member ownership

39:01 - Sara shares her own calming techniques, dogs and drinking water

34:04 - Shoutout to Jefferson Fisher's communication techniques and taking a breath

36:36 - The value of being human and authentic as a leader

39.53 - How employees can tell if a leader is self-serving

40:41 - Larry's own transition story: taking a misaligned government contracting job after retirement

43:29 - Discussion of translating mission into daily action for the team

45:10 - Encouraging referrals and using bankers as a resource, even for a "no"

46:01 - Introducing SBDC and SCORE mentorship resources for entrepreneurs

47:15 - Explaining "commander's intent" and aligning teams to a larger mission

48:19 - Practical steps for connecting with Navy Federal for a small business loan

50:35 - Closing thoughts: find a purpose and make it matter

51:12 - Ted Lasso-inspired advice: be curious, not judgmental

51:56 - Final thanks and closing remarks


SEO:

Retired Army Ranger Larry Perino shares his Black Hawk Down survival story and how it shaped his leadership at Navy Federal Credit Union serving veteran-owned businesses. 


]]> Retired Army Ranger officer Larry Perino, who survived the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu depicted in Black Hawk Down, joins host Sara to discuss leadership under extreme pressure, rebuilding purpose after military transition, and his current mission leading commercial and small business banking for veteran-owned businesses at Navy Federal Credit Union. The conversation blends combat stories with practical leadership lessons on trust, culture, emotional regulation, and finding meaningful work.


Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Larry Perino, 25-year Army veteran and Navy Federal Credit Union AVP

01:00 - Larry thanks Sara and the conversation begins

01:38 - How Larry's definition of purpose evolved from military mission to civilian career

03:04 - The free fall of military transition and the search for work-life balance

04:13 - How Larry's wife encouraged him to look into Navy Federal Credit Union

05:14 - Finding a mission-driven culture and becoming proud to call himself "a banker"

06:08 - The scale of the opportunity: 1.8 million veteran-owned businesses, Navy Federal serving only 1%

07:21 - Larry introduces his combat background with Task Force Ranger in Somalia, 1993

07:56 - The fifteen-hour firefight and losing 18 Americans

08:14 - Larry's commitment to telling his fallen comrades' story so they are not forgotten

09:01 - Sara reflects on shared values around memory and legacy

09:39 - Perspective from a small business owner on the value of a good banker

10:36 - The importance of understanding small business owners' financial knowledge gaps

11:34 - The concept of a "good no" and pointing business owners to resources

12:08 - Discussion of mission and culture being intertwined at Navy Federal

12:36 - The value of psychological safety in workplace culture

13:19 - Larry credits leaders who gave him grace and trust throughout his career

14:08 - Larry's "hiring you to solve my problem" philosophy on leadership responsibility

15:07 - Transition into discussing leading under pressure without losing control

15:29 - Larry describes the intensity of the Mogadishu firefight

16:07 - The Ranger Creed and how culture becomes lived reality in crisis

17:36 - Corporal Jamie Smith's wounding and the intensity of the battle

19:26 - Larry describes freezing in fear and the internal dialogue that followed

21:20 - Willing himself to move one step at a time

22:23 - Techniques for self-calming under extreme stress

23:22 - Realizing the danger of becoming "a burden" to the team

24:10 - Story about fellow soldier Jeff Struecker noting Larry's calm radio voice

25:16 - The coping mechanism of focusing on others instead of yourself

27:36 - Never leaving a fallen comrade and finding resilience through trusted teammates

28:13 - Reflecting on how culture and training created calm under fire

29:08 - Discussion of Ranger culture's broader applications to organizations

30:00 - Transition to applying high-stakes lessons to everyday workplace pressure

31:05 - The importance of pausing before reacting, especially with family

32:07 - Keeping perspective: "nobody's dying" but stakes still matter to members

33:00 - Explanation of credit union structure and member ownership

39:01 - Sara shares her own calming techniques, dogs and drinking water

34:04 - Shoutout to Jefferson Fisher's communication techniques and taking a breath

36:36 - The value of being human and authentic as a leader

39.53 - How employees can tell if a leader is self-serving

40:41 - Larry's own transition story: taking a misaligned government contracting job after retirement

43:29 - Discussion of translating mission into daily action for the team

45:10 - Encouraging referrals and using bankers as a resource, even for a "no"

46:01 - Introducing SBDC and SCORE mentorship resources for entrepreneurs

47:15 - Explaining "commander's intent" and aligning teams to a larger mission

48:19 - Practical steps for connecting with Navy Federal for a small business loan

50:35 - Closing thoughts: find a purpose and make it matter

51:12 - Ted Lasso-inspired advice: be curious, not judgmental

51:56 - Final thanks and closing remarks


SEO:

Retired Army Ranger Larry Perino shares his Black Hawk Down survival story and how it shaped his leadership at Navy Federal Credit Union serving veteran-owned businesses. 


]]> Thu, 17 Sep 2026 06:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3044 Retired Army Ranger officer Larry Perino, who survived the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu depicted in Black Hawk Down, joins host Sara to discuss leadership under extreme pressure, rebuilding purpose after military transition, and his current mission leading commercial and small business banking for veteran-owned businesses at Navy Federal Credit Union. The conversation blends combat stories with practical leadership lessons on trust, culture, emotional regulation, and finding meaningful work.


Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Larry Perino, 25-year Army veteran and Navy Federal Credit Union AVP

01:00 - Larry thanks Sara and the conversation begins

01:38 - How Larry's definition of purpose evolved from military mission to civilian career

03:04 - The free fall of military transition and the search for work-life balance

04:13 - How Larry's wife encouraged him to look into Navy Federal Credit Union

05:14 - Finding a mission-driven culture and becoming proud to call himself "a banker"

06:08 - The scale of the opportunity: 1.8 million veteran-owned businesses, Navy Federal serving only 1%

07:21 - Larry introduces his combat background with Task Force Ranger in Somalia, 1993

07:56 - The fifteen-hour firefight and losing 18 Americans

08:14 - Larry's commitment to telling his fallen comrades' story so they are not forgotten

09:01 - Sara reflects on shared values around memory and legacy

09:39 - Perspective from a small business owner on the value of a good banker

10:36 - The importance of understanding small business owners' financial knowledge gaps

11:34 - The concept of a "good no" and pointing business owners to resources

12:08 - Discussion of mission and culture being intertwined at Navy Federal

12:36 - The value of psychological safety in workplace culture

13:19 - Larry credits leaders who gave him grace and trust throughout his career

14:08 - Larry's "hiring you to solve my problem" philosophy on leadership responsibility

15:07 - Transition into discussing leading under pressure without losing control

15:29 - Larry describes the intensity of the Mogadishu firefight

16:07 - The Ranger Creed and how culture becomes lived reality in crisis

17:36 - Corporal Jamie Smith's wounding and the intensity of the battle

19:26 - Larry describes freezing in fear and the internal dialogue that followed

21:20 - Willing himself to move one step at a time

22:23 - Techniques for self-calming under extreme stress

23:22 - Realizing the danger of becoming "a burden" to the team

24:10 - Story about fellow soldier Jeff Struecker noting Larry's calm radio voice

25:16 - The coping mechanism of focusing on others instead of yourself

27:36 - Never leaving a fallen comrade and finding resilience through trusted teammates

28:13 - Reflecting on how culture and training created calm under fire

29:08 - Discussion of Ranger culture's broader applications to organizations

30:00 - Transition to applying high-stakes lessons to everyday workplace pressure

31:05 - The importance of pausing before reacting, especially with family

32:07 - Keeping perspective: "nobody's dying" but stakes still matter to members

33:00 - Explanation of credit union structure and member ownership

39:01 - Sara shares her own calming techniques, dogs and drinking water

34:04 - Shoutout to Jefferson Fisher's communication techniques and taking a breath

36:36 - The value of being human and authentic as a leader

39.53 - How employees can tell if a leader is self-serving

40:41 - Larry's own transition story: taking a misaligned government contracting job after retirement

43:29 - Discussion of translating mission into daily action for the team

45:10 - Encouraging referrals and using bankers as a resource, even for a "no"

46:01 - Introducing SBDC and SCORE mentorship resources for entrepreneurs

47:15 - Explaining "commander's intent" and aligning teams to a larger mission

48:19 - Practical steps for connecting with Navy Federal for a small business loan

50:35 - Closing thoughts: find a purpose and make it matter

51:12 - Ted Lasso-inspired advice: be curious, not judgmental

51:56 - Final thanks and closing remarks


SEO:

Retired Army Ranger Larry Perino shares his Black Hawk Down survival story and how it shaped his leadership at Navy Federal Credit Union serving veteran-owned businesses. 


]]> Larry Perino, Navy Federal Credit Union, Black Hawk Down, Battle of Mogadishu, veteran owned businesses, leadership under pressure, Army Ranger, small business lending No S02E08 Why "Doing It All" Is Quietly Breaking High-Achieving Women | Ashley Huegi 53 53 S02E08 Why "Doing It All" Is Quietly Breaking High-Achieving Women | Ashley Huegi full 2ea6c5c7-7b86-4ae2-a124-613e77681371 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4810737c Host Sara welcomes Ashley, a finance industry veteran and business builder, for a candid conversation about dismantling hustle culture and redefining success. Ashley shares her journey of recognizing burnout beneath outward success, grieving the "old model" of achievement she inherited, and shifting from chasing balance to living in alignment with her core values. They also dig into the power of asking for help, building supportive female communities like GoBundance Women, and raising children who model healthy vulnerability.

Show Notes

00:00:50- Introducing today's theme: challenging the belief that success requires doing more

00:01:16 - Introducing guest Ashley and her background scaling businesses while raising a family

00:02:48 - Ashley's journey begins: early signs her version of success wasn't working

00:03:33 - The "quiet realizations" and numbing feeling behind an outwardly successful life

00:04:37 - Realizing the old model of success no longer fit her life

00:05:17 - The need to grieve the former self before building something new

00:06:17 - Growing up as the oldest of four girls and inherited pressure to be perfect

00:07:21 - Sarah reflects on the importance of allowing yourself to grieve

00:08:17 - Ashley describes her personal grieving process with young kids at home

00:10:29 - Giving yourself permission to feel instead of bottling emotions

00:10:53 - Defining the "inherited model of success" and why it fails modern women

00:12:12 - Why women were never taught to ask for help

00:13:16 - How the old success model was built on sacrifice

00:13:57 - Sara shares how she let her daughter see her struggle growing up

00:16:36 - Raising "whole humans" and rethinking gendered expectations for kids

00:17:47 - Turning to hustle culture: normalized burnout and its real cost

00:18:29 - The gradual disconnection hustle culture creates over time

00:19:23 - Central nervous system regulation and chronic high-stress living

00:20:14 - Ashley's real-time example: saying no to a PTA board position

00:21:35 - How society rewards hustle from childhood through adulthood

00:22:42 - The power of setting boundaries and saying no without guilt

00:23:15 - The "21 days of practicing no" strategy

00:24:26 - Reframing success from balance to alignment

00:26:47 - Why balance fails: life is not equally weighted across seasons

00:29:42 - Ashley's "Clarity Break" exercise for auditing daily tasks

00:31:21 - Outsourcing chores like laundry and cleaning to reclaim time

00:31:43 - Why asking for help is a leadership strategy, not a weakness

00:34:08 - Learning to accept "imperfect help" from a spouse

00:36:36 - Reframing not asking for help as selfish

00:39:15 - Building businesses and parenting without traditional support systems

00:40:55 - Fighting to work remotely before it was normalized, even before COVID

00:44:30 - Letting go of perfection: showing up without makeup or in gym clothes

00:47:14 - The importance of having a support network ready for your kids

00:48:04 - Introducing GoBundance Women and the power of community and proximity

00:51:45 - How GoBundance Women takes a holistic approach to abundance

00:54:10 - How "pods" of women function as personal boards of advisors

00:56:17 - How to connect with Ashley and GoBundance Women

00:57:14 - Closing takeaways: choosing alignment over pressure every time



SEO Description


Ashley Huegi joins Root to Success to unpack burnout, hustle culture, and the inherited model of success failing high-achieving women—and how alignment fixes it.


]]> Host Sara welcomes Ashley, a finance industry veteran and business builder, for a candid conversation about dismantling hustle culture and redefining success. Ashley shares her journey of recognizing burnout beneath outward success, grieving the "old model" of achievement she inherited, and shifting from chasing balance to living in alignment with her core values. They also dig into the power of asking for help, building supportive female communities like GoBundance Women, and raising children who model healthy vulnerability.

Show Notes

00:00:50- Introducing today's theme: challenging the belief that success requires doing more

00:01:16 - Introducing guest Ashley and her background scaling businesses while raising a family

00:02:48 - Ashley's journey begins: early signs her version of success wasn't working

00:03:33 - The "quiet realizations" and numbing feeling behind an outwardly successful life

00:04:37 - Realizing the old model of success no longer fit her life

00:05:17 - The need to grieve the former self before building something new

00:06:17 - Growing up as the oldest of four girls and inherited pressure to be perfect

00:07:21 - Sarah reflects on the importance of allowing yourself to grieve

00:08:17 - Ashley describes her personal grieving process with young kids at home

00:10:29 - Giving yourself permission to feel instead of bottling emotions

00:10:53 - Defining the "inherited model of success" and why it fails modern women

00:12:12 - Why women were never taught to ask for help

00:13:16 - How the old success model was built on sacrifice

00:13:57 - Sara shares how she let her daughter see her struggle growing up

00:16:36 - Raising "whole humans" and rethinking gendered expectations for kids

00:17:47 - Turning to hustle culture: normalized burnout and its real cost

00:18:29 - The gradual disconnection hustle culture creates over time

00:19:23 - Central nervous system regulation and chronic high-stress living

00:20:14 - Ashley's real-time example: saying no to a PTA board position

00:21:35 - How society rewards hustle from childhood through adulthood

00:22:42 - The power of setting boundaries and saying no without guilt

00:23:15 - The "21 days of practicing no" strategy

00:24:26 - Reframing success from balance to alignment

00:26:47 - Why balance fails: life is not equally weighted across seasons

00:29:42 - Ashley's "Clarity Break" exercise for auditing daily tasks

00:31:21 - Outsourcing chores like laundry and cleaning to reclaim time

00:31:43 - Why asking for help is a leadership strategy, not a weakness

00:34:08 - Learning to accept "imperfect help" from a spouse

00:36:36 - Reframing not asking for help as selfish

00:39:15 - Building businesses and parenting without traditional support systems

00:40:55 - Fighting to work remotely before it was normalized, even before COVID

00:44:30 - Letting go of perfection: showing up without makeup or in gym clothes

00:47:14 - The importance of having a support network ready for your kids

00:48:04 - Introducing GoBundance Women and the power of community and proximity

00:51:45 - How GoBundance Women takes a holistic approach to abundance

00:54:10 - How "pods" of women function as personal boards of advisors

00:56:17 - How to connect with Ashley and GoBundance Women

00:57:14 - Closing takeaways: choosing alignment over pressure every time



SEO Description


Ashley Huegi joins Root to Success to unpack burnout, hustle culture, and the inherited model of success failing high-achieving women—and how alignment fixes it.


]]> Thu, 10 Sep 2026 15:57:22 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3462 Host Sara welcomes Ashley, a finance industry veteran and business builder, for a candid conversation about dismantling hustle culture and redefining success. Ashley shares her journey of recognizing burnout beneath outward success, grieving the "old model" of achievement she inherited, and shifting from chasing balance to living in alignment with her core values. They also dig into the power of asking for help, building supportive female communities like GoBundance Women, and raising children who model healthy vulnerability.

Show Notes

00:00:50- Introducing today's theme: challenging the belief that success requires doing more

00:01:16 - Introducing guest Ashley and her background scaling businesses while raising a family

00:02:48 - Ashley's journey begins: early signs her version of success wasn't working

00:03:33 - The "quiet realizations" and numbing feeling behind an outwardly successful life

00:04:37 - Realizing the old model of success no longer fit her life

00:05:17 - The need to grieve the former self before building something new

00:06:17 - Growing up as the oldest of four girls and inherited pressure to be perfect

00:07:21 - Sarah reflects on the importance of allowing yourself to grieve

00:08:17 - Ashley describes her personal grieving process with young kids at home

00:10:29 - Giving yourself permission to feel instead of bottling emotions

00:10:53 - Defining the "inherited model of success" and why it fails modern women

00:12:12 - Why women were never taught to ask for help

00:13:16 - How the old success model was built on sacrifice

00:13:57 - Sara shares how she let her daughter see her struggle growing up

00:16:36 - Raising "whole humans" and rethinking gendered expectations for kids

00:17:47 - Turning to hustle culture: normalized burnout and its real cost

00:18:29 - The gradual disconnection hustle culture creates over time

00:19:23 - Central nervous system regulation and chronic high-stress living

00:20:14 - Ashley's real-time example: saying no to a PTA board position

00:21:35 - How society rewards hustle from childhood through adulthood

00:22:42 - The power of setting boundaries and saying no without guilt

00:23:15 - The "21 days of practicing no" strategy

00:24:26 - Reframing success from balance to alignment

00:26:47 - Why balance fails: life is not equally weighted across seasons

00:29:42 - Ashley's "Clarity Break" exercise for auditing daily tasks

00:31:21 - Outsourcing chores like laundry and cleaning to reclaim time

00:31:43 - Why asking for help is a leadership strategy, not a weakness

00:34:08 - Learning to accept "imperfect help" from a spouse

00:36:36 - Reframing not asking for help as selfish

00:39:15 - Building businesses and parenting without traditional support systems

00:40:55 - Fighting to work remotely before it was normalized, even before COVID

00:44:30 - Letting go of perfection: showing up without makeup or in gym clothes

00:47:14 - The importance of having a support network ready for your kids

00:48:04 - Introducing GoBundance Women and the power of community and proximity

00:51:45 - How GoBundance Women takes a holistic approach to abundance

00:54:10 - How "pods" of women function as personal boards of advisors

00:56:17 - How to connect with Ashley and GoBundance Women

00:57:14 - Closing takeaways: choosing alignment over pressure every time



SEO Description


Ashley Huegi joins Root to Success to unpack burnout, hustle culture, and the inherited model of success failing high-achieving women—and how alignment fixes it.


]]> Ashley Huegi, women in leadership, burnout, hustle culture, high-achievers No S02E07 5 Lessons From a Founder Who Built Her Business While Working Full Time | Teva Thomas 52 52 S02E07 5 Lessons From a Founder Who Built Her Business While Working Full Time | Teva Thomas full 289c8b7c-6d25-4204-9559-f7f513d85861 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e91d6ad3 Sara sits down with Teva Thompson, founder of a branding and operations company serving women-led businesses and nonprofits, to explore how she built her company slowly and intentionally while working full time and raising a family. They dig into the shift from surface-level branding to deep operational systems, the power of Lean Six Sigma thinking, and why creating supportive, women-centered business communities matters. The conversation closes with practical, actionable advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed about starting a sustainable business.


Show Notes

00:11 - Introducing today's theme: building with intention

00:15 - Meet Teva Thompson, founder supporting women-led businesses and nonprofits

00:33 - How she built her company slowly while working full time and raising a family

01:18 - Teva's journey: why she chose to build the brand slowly and sustainably

02:07 - How motherhood shaped her need for flexible systems and processes

03:05 - The shift from branding to full operational strategy

03:23 - What she noticed in clients who jump straight to logos without systems

04:26 - Sara shares her own experience focusing on aesthetics over substance

05:08 - How strong foundations create calmer, more confident business owners

06:07 - Introducing Lean Six Sigma certification and its role in her work

06:32 - What Lean Six Sigma really means: standards over perfection

07:25 - Common operational gaps she sees in small businesses

08:29 - Why systems should be flexible and grow alongside the business

09:16 - Why Teva intentionally focuses on serving women-led businesses

10:38 - Sara reflects on feeling dismissed in mixed-gender business spaces

11:25 - The value of safe, supportive spaces for women entrepreneurs

13:03 - Bigger picture: women's roles in solving issues like poverty and hunger

13:46 - Sara's story about a client bringing kids to a business conference

14:37 - What true flexibility looks like for working mothers

16:03 - Creating individualized systems that honor each person's needs

16:47 - How Teva stays grounded and avoids burnout

16:58 - The importance of guilt-free rest and self-care

17:37 - Travel as a form of solitude and recharging

18:07 - Sara's own reset ritual: phone-free dog walks

19:00 - Optimism about the next generation's approach to self-care

19:47 - Practical first step for anyone wanting to start a business

20:08 - Advice: find a mentor, research brands you admire, take notes

21:07 - How to connect with Teva and access a free brand consultation

22:08 - Closing thoughts: patience, community, and building something that lasts



SEO Description


Teva Thompson shares how she built a branding and operations company for women-led businesses slowly and intentionally while working full time and raising a family.


]]> Sara sits down with Teva Thompson, founder of a branding and operations company serving women-led businesses and nonprofits, to explore how she built her company slowly and intentionally while working full time and raising a family. They dig into the shift from surface-level branding to deep operational systems, the power of Lean Six Sigma thinking, and why creating supportive, women-centered business communities matters. The conversation closes with practical, actionable advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed about starting a sustainable business.


Show Notes

00:11 - Introducing today's theme: building with intention

00:15 - Meet Teva Thompson, founder supporting women-led businesses and nonprofits

00:33 - How she built her company slowly while working full time and raising a family

01:18 - Teva's journey: why she chose to build the brand slowly and sustainably

02:07 - How motherhood shaped her need for flexible systems and processes

03:05 - The shift from branding to full operational strategy

03:23 - What she noticed in clients who jump straight to logos without systems

04:26 - Sara shares her own experience focusing on aesthetics over substance

05:08 - How strong foundations create calmer, more confident business owners

06:07 - Introducing Lean Six Sigma certification and its role in her work

06:32 - What Lean Six Sigma really means: standards over perfection

07:25 - Common operational gaps she sees in small businesses

08:29 - Why systems should be flexible and grow alongside the business

09:16 - Why Teva intentionally focuses on serving women-led businesses

10:38 - Sara reflects on feeling dismissed in mixed-gender business spaces

11:25 - The value of safe, supportive spaces for women entrepreneurs

13:03 - Bigger picture: women's roles in solving issues like poverty and hunger

13:46 - Sara's story about a client bringing kids to a business conference

14:37 - What true flexibility looks like for working mothers

16:03 - Creating individualized systems that honor each person's needs

16:47 - How Teva stays grounded and avoids burnout

16:58 - The importance of guilt-free rest and self-care

17:37 - Travel as a form of solitude and recharging

18:07 - Sara's own reset ritual: phone-free dog walks

19:00 - Optimism about the next generation's approach to self-care

19:47 - Practical first step for anyone wanting to start a business

20:08 - Advice: find a mentor, research brands you admire, take notes

21:07 - How to connect with Teva and access a free brand consultation

22:08 - Closing thoughts: patience, community, and building something that lasts



SEO Description


Teva Thompson shares how she built a branding and operations company for women-led businesses slowly and intentionally while working full time and raising a family.


]]> Thu, 03 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1406 Sara sits down with Teva Thompson, founder of a branding and operations company serving women-led businesses and nonprofits, to explore how she built her company slowly and intentionally while working full time and raising a family. They dig into the shift from surface-level branding to deep operational systems, the power of Lean Six Sigma thinking, and why creating supportive, women-centered business communities matters. The conversation closes with practical, actionable advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed about starting a sustainable business.


Show Notes

00:11 - Introducing today's theme: building with intention

00:15 - Meet Teva Thompson, founder supporting women-led businesses and nonprofits

00:33 - How she built her company slowly while working full time and raising a family

01:18 - Teva's journey: why she chose to build the brand slowly and sustainably

02:07 - How motherhood shaped her need for flexible systems and processes

03:05 - The shift from branding to full operational strategy

03:23 - What she noticed in clients who jump straight to logos without systems

04:26 - Sara shares her own experience focusing on aesthetics over substance

05:08 - How strong foundations create calmer, more confident business owners

06:07 - Introducing Lean Six Sigma certification and its role in her work

06:32 - What Lean Six Sigma really means: standards over perfection

07:25 - Common operational gaps she sees in small businesses

08:29 - Why systems should be flexible and grow alongside the business

09:16 - Why Teva intentionally focuses on serving women-led businesses

10:38 - Sara reflects on feeling dismissed in mixed-gender business spaces

11:25 - The value of safe, supportive spaces for women entrepreneurs

13:03 - Bigger picture: women's roles in solving issues like poverty and hunger

13:46 - Sara's story about a client bringing kids to a business conference

14:37 - What true flexibility looks like for working mothers

16:03 - Creating individualized systems that honor each person's needs

16:47 - How Teva stays grounded and avoids burnout

16:58 - The importance of guilt-free rest and self-care

17:37 - Travel as a form of solitude and recharging

18:07 - Sara's own reset ritual: phone-free dog walks

19:00 - Optimism about the next generation's approach to self-care

19:47 - Practical first step for anyone wanting to start a business

20:08 - Advice: find a mentor, research brands you admire, take notes

21:07 - How to connect with Teva and access a free brand consultation

22:08 - Closing thoughts: patience, community, and building something that lasts



SEO Description


Teva Thompson shares how she built a branding and operations company for women-led businesses slowly and intentionally while working full time and raising a family.


]]> Teva Thomas, women-led business, brand sustainability, Lean Six Sigma, self care No S02E06 From Credit Cards to AI: One Man’s 50-Year Retail Tech Journey | Richard Halter 51 51 S02E06 From Credit Cards to AI: One Man’s 50-Year Retail Tech Journey | Richard Halter full 50e5edb5-8c92-4896-8bb6-ca4bbeb5f7da https://share.transistor.fm/s/5bce9b32 Richard Halter, often called the "unknown father of ecommerce" and creator of the first omnichannel point-of-sale architecture, joins The Route to Success to share stories from decades of retail technology innovation. He and the host dig into how standards solve retail's biggest scaling problems, why AI should be thought of like a learning toddler rather than an application, and why he's now building a School of Retail Technology and an AI-driven retail tool. The conversation blends technical history with practical advice for leaders navigating AI adoption without fear.


Show Notes

00:00 - Introduction to Richard Halter and his decades-long impact on retail technology and ecommerce

01:26 - Richard joins the show; Sara shares how their professional friendship began on an advisory board

02:13 - Richard reflects on whether he saw himself as "building something new" versus solving assigned problems

02:59 - Richard describes his newest project: an AI-based retail technology tool built from decades of standards knowledge

03:50 - Sara shares her Star Trek-inspired view of AI as a collaborative tool

05:00 - Origin story of the first online credit card authorization system for the Tulsa World newspaper in 1994-95

06:06 - Visa confirms it was the first system of its kind; Richard becomes known as the "unknown father of ecommerce"

06:41 - How Richard architected the first native omnichannel POS system with Retalix in Israel, later acquired by NCR

08:19 - Richard shares the story of his prayer at the Wailing Wall: "Help me help others"

09:00 - Host connects Richard's philosophy to her own work with nonprofits

09:10 - Richard discusses mentoring over 20 startups, including Noah Glass and Olo's rise to a billion-dollar company

10:39 - How Richard approaches solving problems with no existing blueprint

11:01 - The 1970s seismic exploration project and the basketball-inspired breakthrough in processor synchronization

13:38 - Richard's philosophy on failure: "There's no such thing as failure if you've learned from it"

14:35 - Why standards matter: training 1,600+ subject matter experts and solving retail's "number one problem"

16:03 - The 1993 origin of retail data standards among five major retailers

19:00 - The Walmart Chinese food/Mexican food distribution mix-up story illustrating standards failures

20:00 - What leaders get wrong about AI: treating it like an application instead of a learning system

21:20 - AI compared to teaching a two-year-old: a closed-loop feedback learning system

22:19 - How to properly train and feed information into AI systems

23:54 - The role of kindness and patience when interacting with AI

24:46 - Richard's vision for a School of Retail Technology to close industry knowledge gaps

27:36 - The story behind Richard's nickname, "The Wizard of POS"

29:40 - Richard's reassurance for people worried AI will take their jobs

31:13 - Where to find Richard's YouTube channel, "Richard the Geek," and his video series on agentic retail operations

34:37 - Closing thoughts on curiosity, innovation, and losing fear of new technology

35:04 - Richard mentions his book, "Arts for Retail," for those wanting deeper technical knowledge


SEO Description

Meet Richard Halter, the "unknown father of ecommerce," as he shares retail tech history, AI insights, and why standards—not fear—drive innovation forward.


]]> Richard Halter, often called the "unknown father of ecommerce" and creator of the first omnichannel point-of-sale architecture, joins The Route to Success to share stories from decades of retail technology innovation. He and the host dig into how standards solve retail's biggest scaling problems, why AI should be thought of like a learning toddler rather than an application, and why he's now building a School of Retail Technology and an AI-driven retail tool. The conversation blends technical history with practical advice for leaders navigating AI adoption without fear.


Show Notes

00:00 - Introduction to Richard Halter and his decades-long impact on retail technology and ecommerce

01:26 - Richard joins the show; Sara shares how their professional friendship began on an advisory board

02:13 - Richard reflects on whether he saw himself as "building something new" versus solving assigned problems

02:59 - Richard describes his newest project: an AI-based retail technology tool built from decades of standards knowledge

03:50 - Sara shares her Star Trek-inspired view of AI as a collaborative tool

05:00 - Origin story of the first online credit card authorization system for the Tulsa World newspaper in 1994-95

06:06 - Visa confirms it was the first system of its kind; Richard becomes known as the "unknown father of ecommerce"

06:41 - How Richard architected the first native omnichannel POS system with Retalix in Israel, later acquired by NCR

08:19 - Richard shares the story of his prayer at the Wailing Wall: "Help me help others"

09:00 - Host connects Richard's philosophy to her own work with nonprofits

09:10 - Richard discusses mentoring over 20 startups, including Noah Glass and Olo's rise to a billion-dollar company

10:39 - How Richard approaches solving problems with no existing blueprint

11:01 - The 1970s seismic exploration project and the basketball-inspired breakthrough in processor synchronization

13:38 - Richard's philosophy on failure: "There's no such thing as failure if you've learned from it"

14:35 - Why standards matter: training 1,600+ subject matter experts and solving retail's "number one problem"

16:03 - The 1993 origin of retail data standards among five major retailers

19:00 - The Walmart Chinese food/Mexican food distribution mix-up story illustrating standards failures

20:00 - What leaders get wrong about AI: treating it like an application instead of a learning system

21:20 - AI compared to teaching a two-year-old: a closed-loop feedback learning system

22:19 - How to properly train and feed information into AI systems

23:54 - The role of kindness and patience when interacting with AI

24:46 - Richard's vision for a School of Retail Technology to close industry knowledge gaps

27:36 - The story behind Richard's nickname, "The Wizard of POS"

29:40 - Richard's reassurance for people worried AI will take their jobs

31:13 - Where to find Richard's YouTube channel, "Richard the Geek," and his video series on agentic retail operations

34:37 - Closing thoughts on curiosity, innovation, and losing fear of new technology

35:04 - Richard mentions his book, "Arts for Retail," for those wanting deeper technical knowledge


SEO Description

Meet Richard Halter, the "unknown father of ecommerce," as he shares retail tech history, AI insights, and why standards—not fear—drive innovation forward.


]]> Thu, 27 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2145 Richard Halter, often called the "unknown father of ecommerce" and creator of the first omnichannel point-of-sale architecture, joins The Route to Success to share stories from decades of retail technology innovation. He and the host dig into how standards solve retail's biggest scaling problems, why AI should be thought of like a learning toddler rather than an application, and why he's now building a School of Retail Technology and an AI-driven retail tool. The conversation blends technical history with practical advice for leaders navigating AI adoption without fear.


Show Notes

00:00 - Introduction to Richard Halter and his decades-long impact on retail technology and ecommerce

01:26 - Richard joins the show; Sara shares how their professional friendship began on an advisory board

02:13 - Richard reflects on whether he saw himself as "building something new" versus solving assigned problems

02:59 - Richard describes his newest project: an AI-based retail technology tool built from decades of standards knowledge

03:50 - Sara shares her Star Trek-inspired view of AI as a collaborative tool

05:00 - Origin story of the first online credit card authorization system for the Tulsa World newspaper in 1994-95

06:06 - Visa confirms it was the first system of its kind; Richard becomes known as the "unknown father of ecommerce"

06:41 - How Richard architected the first native omnichannel POS system with Retalix in Israel, later acquired by NCR

08:19 - Richard shares the story of his prayer at the Wailing Wall: "Help me help others"

09:00 - Host connects Richard's philosophy to her own work with nonprofits

09:10 - Richard discusses mentoring over 20 startups, including Noah Glass and Olo's rise to a billion-dollar company

10:39 - How Richard approaches solving problems with no existing blueprint

11:01 - The 1970s seismic exploration project and the basketball-inspired breakthrough in processor synchronization

13:38 - Richard's philosophy on failure: "There's no such thing as failure if you've learned from it"

14:35 - Why standards matter: training 1,600+ subject matter experts and solving retail's "number one problem"

16:03 - The 1993 origin of retail data standards among five major retailers

19:00 - The Walmart Chinese food/Mexican food distribution mix-up story illustrating standards failures

20:00 - What leaders get wrong about AI: treating it like an application instead of a learning system

21:20 - AI compared to teaching a two-year-old: a closed-loop feedback learning system

22:19 - How to properly train and feed information into AI systems

23:54 - The role of kindness and patience when interacting with AI

24:46 - Richard's vision for a School of Retail Technology to close industry knowledge gaps

27:36 - The story behind Richard's nickname, "The Wizard of POS"

29:40 - Richard's reassurance for people worried AI will take their jobs

31:13 - Where to find Richard's YouTube channel, "Richard the Geek," and his video series on agentic retail operations

34:37 - Closing thoughts on curiosity, innovation, and losing fear of new technology

35:04 - Richard mentions his book, "Arts for Retail," for those wanting deeper technical knowledge


SEO Description

Meet Richard Halter, the "unknown father of ecommerce," as he shares retail tech history, AI insights, and why standards—not fear—drive innovation forward.


]]> Richard Halter, unknown father of ecommerce, omnichannel point of sale, retail technology standards, AI in retail, Richard the Geek YouTube, School of Retail Technology, Wizard of POS No S02E05 From Dimming Her Light to Leading Boldly: An Attorney’s Journey to Authenticity | Arnettia S Wyre 50 50 S02E05 From Dimming Her Light to Leading Boldly: An Attorney’s Journey to Authenticity | Arnettia S Wyre full ffd69368-5eb3-47e0-b4f5-17e34ff74404 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cc76a12d
Attorney, business strategist, and nonprofit founder Arnettia Wyre joins host Sara to discuss reclaiming her authentic voice after years of being told her natural way of thinking and asking questions made others uncomfortable. Arnetta shares how she moved from silencing herself for two decades to fully embracing her identity, and details her work through OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative and Lake Solutions, helping youth and business leaders alike grow through authenticity and honest feedback.

Lake Solutions LLC Website: https://www.lakesolutionsllc.com/ 


Show Notes


00:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme of reclaiming your voice and guest Arnetta Wire


00:59 - Arnettia thanks Sara and the conversation begins


01:07 - Sara highlights Arnettia's background in law, business, and motherhood


01:26 - What shaped Arnettia's early approach to leadership


01:39 - Landing her dream job at a Fortune 500 company after law school


02:00 - Admiring a senior VP's leadership style from afar as an early mentor


03:43 - Learning leadership through lived experience as an employee


04:08 - Sara shares her own philosophy on learning from bad leaders


04:20 - Introducing the pivotal moment Arnettia was told she made others uncomfortable


05:04 - The senior VP calls Arnettia in to say she makes people uncomfortable


05:30 - Arnettia explains her inquisitive, detail-driven thinking style as a lawyer


06:31 - Being told she "moves too fast" and needs to slow down


07:02 - Arnettia reframes this as questioning how God made her


07:20 - Learning to stay quiet and reel herself in for years


07:56 - Carrying this suppression for about twenty years


09:14 - Deciding "enough is enough" and embracing being uniquely made


09:38 - Sara reflects on her forties and growing comfortable in her own skin


10:19 - The idea that it gets easier to hold your space as you age


11:42 - What dimming her light actually cost Arnettia personally


12:03 - Going through therapy, prayer, and self-awareness work


12:37 - Taking the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment


13:09 - Early personality testing in legal training revealing she's a "high D"


13:56 - Realizing she'd been suppressing her true self for someone else


15:36 - The emotional intelligence work required to free herself


15:38 - Seeing her own traits mirrored in her 10-year-old daughter


16:40 - Recognizing when an environment isn't the right fit for her fast-paced mind


17:52 - Arnettia's philosophy on leaders making space for every team member's contribution


18:19 - Sara reflects on evolving as a person and her own year of solitude and healing


19:19 - Transition into discussing Arnettia's nonprofit work


21:02 - Introducing OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative, founded during COVID in DC


21:44 - How Catholic school and a caring teacher changed the trajectory of Arnettia's life


23:15 - The mission behind creating OmniQuest for DC youth


24:49 - Teaching authentic Black history as part of the nonprofit's mission


25:17 - The life-changing impact of international travel as a teen


26:20 - Helping youth think more globally beyond their immediate environment


27:10 - Addressing the racial wealth gap and disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline


27:18 - Teaching entrepreneurial and AI skills to young people early


29:17 - How listeners can donate to OmniQuest (omniquestyouth.org)


30:04 - Sara explains the real return on investment of donating to youth nonprofits


31:07 - The final question: reclaiming your voice when told to be quieter


31:36 - Arnettia on believing you are more than what others say about you


32:33 - Accepting imperfection while standing in your core goodness


33:40 - "Be like a duck" — letting criticism roll off


34:08 - Sara's takeaway: you don't need permission to be who you are


34:44 - Discussion of Lake Solutions, Arnettia's for-profit consulting firm


35:04 - Arnettia's role as a CEO confidant for founder-led and family businesses


35:53 - Why leading a business is often lonely and needs honest partners


36:13 - The importance of being comfortable with brutal honesty for growth


36:49 - How to find and work with Lake Solutions (lakesolutionswithaw-llc.com)


37:34 - Closing thoughts: choose to show up fully and embrace the uncomfortable

SEO Description

Attorney Arnettia Wyre opens up about silencing her voice for 20 years, reclaiming authenticity, and empowering youth and CEOs through her nonprofit and consulting work


]]>
Attorney, business strategist, and nonprofit founder Arnettia Wyre joins host Sara to discuss reclaiming her authentic voice after years of being told her natural way of thinking and asking questions made others uncomfortable. Arnetta shares how she moved from silencing herself for two decades to fully embracing her identity, and details her work through OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative and Lake Solutions, helping youth and business leaders alike grow through authenticity and honest feedback.

Lake Solutions LLC Website: https://www.lakesolutionsllc.com/ 


Show Notes


00:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme of reclaiming your voice and guest Arnetta Wire


00:59 - Arnettia thanks Sara and the conversation begins


01:07 - Sara highlights Arnettia's background in law, business, and motherhood


01:26 - What shaped Arnettia's early approach to leadership


01:39 - Landing her dream job at a Fortune 500 company after law school


02:00 - Admiring a senior VP's leadership style from afar as an early mentor


03:43 - Learning leadership through lived experience as an employee


04:08 - Sara shares her own philosophy on learning from bad leaders


04:20 - Introducing the pivotal moment Arnettia was told she made others uncomfortable


05:04 - The senior VP calls Arnettia in to say she makes people uncomfortable


05:30 - Arnettia explains her inquisitive, detail-driven thinking style as a lawyer


06:31 - Being told she "moves too fast" and needs to slow down


07:02 - Arnettia reframes this as questioning how God made her


07:20 - Learning to stay quiet and reel herself in for years


07:56 - Carrying this suppression for about twenty years


09:14 - Deciding "enough is enough" and embracing being uniquely made


09:38 - Sara reflects on her forties and growing comfortable in her own skin


10:19 - The idea that it gets easier to hold your space as you age


11:42 - What dimming her light actually cost Arnettia personally


12:03 - Going through therapy, prayer, and self-awareness work


12:37 - Taking the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment


13:09 - Early personality testing in legal training revealing she's a "high D"


13:56 - Realizing she'd been suppressing her true self for someone else


15:36 - The emotional intelligence work required to free herself


15:38 - Seeing her own traits mirrored in her 10-year-old daughter


16:40 - Recognizing when an environment isn't the right fit for her fast-paced mind


17:52 - Arnettia's philosophy on leaders making space for every team member's contribution


18:19 - Sara reflects on evolving as a person and her own year of solitude and healing


19:19 - Transition into discussing Arnettia's nonprofit work


21:02 - Introducing OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative, founded during COVID in DC


21:44 - How Catholic school and a caring teacher changed the trajectory of Arnettia's life


23:15 - The mission behind creating OmniQuest for DC youth


24:49 - Teaching authentic Black history as part of the nonprofit's mission


25:17 - The life-changing impact of international travel as a teen


26:20 - Helping youth think more globally beyond their immediate environment


27:10 - Addressing the racial wealth gap and disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline


27:18 - Teaching entrepreneurial and AI skills to young people early


29:17 - How listeners can donate to OmniQuest (omniquestyouth.org)


30:04 - Sara explains the real return on investment of donating to youth nonprofits


31:07 - The final question: reclaiming your voice when told to be quieter


31:36 - Arnettia on believing you are more than what others say about you


32:33 - Accepting imperfection while standing in your core goodness


33:40 - "Be like a duck" — letting criticism roll off


34:08 - Sara's takeaway: you don't need permission to be who you are


34:44 - Discussion of Lake Solutions, Arnettia's for-profit consulting firm


35:04 - Arnettia's role as a CEO confidant for founder-led and family businesses


35:53 - Why leading a business is often lonely and needs honest partners


36:13 - The importance of being comfortable with brutal honesty for growth


36:49 - How to find and work with Lake Solutions (lakesolutionswithaw-llc.com)


37:34 - Closing thoughts: choose to show up fully and embrace the uncomfortable

SEO Description

Attorney Arnettia Wyre opens up about silencing her voice for 20 years, reclaiming authenticity, and empowering youth and CEOs through her nonprofit and consulting work


]]> Thu, 20 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2319
Attorney, business strategist, and nonprofit founder Arnettia Wyre joins host Sara to discuss reclaiming her authentic voice after years of being told her natural way of thinking and asking questions made others uncomfortable. Arnetta shares how she moved from silencing herself for two decades to fully embracing her identity, and details her work through OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative and Lake Solutions, helping youth and business leaders alike grow through authenticity and honest feedback.

Lake Solutions LLC Website: https://www.lakesolutionsllc.com/ 


Show Notes


00:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme of reclaiming your voice and guest Arnetta Wire


00:59 - Arnettia thanks Sara and the conversation begins


01:07 - Sara highlights Arnettia's background in law, business, and motherhood


01:26 - What shaped Arnettia's early approach to leadership


01:39 - Landing her dream job at a Fortune 500 company after law school


02:00 - Admiring a senior VP's leadership style from afar as an early mentor


03:43 - Learning leadership through lived experience as an employee


04:08 - Sara shares her own philosophy on learning from bad leaders


04:20 - Introducing the pivotal moment Arnettia was told she made others uncomfortable


05:04 - The senior VP calls Arnettia in to say she makes people uncomfortable


05:30 - Arnettia explains her inquisitive, detail-driven thinking style as a lawyer


06:31 - Being told she "moves too fast" and needs to slow down


07:02 - Arnettia reframes this as questioning how God made her


07:20 - Learning to stay quiet and reel herself in for years


07:56 - Carrying this suppression for about twenty years


09:14 - Deciding "enough is enough" and embracing being uniquely made


09:38 - Sara reflects on her forties and growing comfortable in her own skin


10:19 - The idea that it gets easier to hold your space as you age


11:42 - What dimming her light actually cost Arnettia personally


12:03 - Going through therapy, prayer, and self-awareness work


12:37 - Taking the Clifton StrengthsFinder assessment


13:09 - Early personality testing in legal training revealing she's a "high D"


13:56 - Realizing she'd been suppressing her true self for someone else


15:36 - The emotional intelligence work required to free herself


15:38 - Seeing her own traits mirrored in her 10-year-old daughter


16:40 - Recognizing when an environment isn't the right fit for her fast-paced mind


17:52 - Arnettia's philosophy on leaders making space for every team member's contribution


18:19 - Sara reflects on evolving as a person and her own year of solitude and healing


19:19 - Transition into discussing Arnettia's nonprofit work


21:02 - Introducing OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative, founded during COVID in DC


21:44 - How Catholic school and a caring teacher changed the trajectory of Arnettia's life


23:15 - The mission behind creating OmniQuest for DC youth


24:49 - Teaching authentic Black history as part of the nonprofit's mission


25:17 - The life-changing impact of international travel as a teen


26:20 - Helping youth think more globally beyond their immediate environment


27:10 - Addressing the racial wealth gap and disrupting the school-to-prison pipeline


27:18 - Teaching entrepreneurial and AI skills to young people early


29:17 - How listeners can donate to OmniQuest (omniquestyouth.org)


30:04 - Sara explains the real return on investment of donating to youth nonprofits


31:07 - The final question: reclaiming your voice when told to be quieter


31:36 - Arnettia on believing you are more than what others say about you


32:33 - Accepting imperfection while standing in your core goodness


33:40 - "Be like a duck" — letting criticism roll off


34:08 - Sara's takeaway: you don't need permission to be who you are


34:44 - Discussion of Lake Solutions, Arnettia's for-profit consulting firm


35:04 - Arnettia's role as a CEO confidant for founder-led and family businesses


35:53 - Why leading a business is often lonely and needs honest partners


36:13 - The importance of being comfortable with brutal honesty for growth


36:49 - How to find and work with Lake Solutions (lakesolutionswithaw-llc.com)


37:34 - Closing thoughts: choose to show up fully and embrace the uncomfortable

SEO Description

Attorney Arnettia Wyre opens up about silencing her voice for 20 years, reclaiming authenticity, and empowering youth and CEOs through her nonprofit and consulting work


]]> Arnettia Wyre, reclaiming your voice, OmniQuest Youth Empowerment Initiative, Lake Solutions, CEO confidant, authentic leadership, nonprofit for youth DC, emotional intelligence at work No S02E04 How to Job Search When Your Title Doesn’t Match Your Skills| Scott Toren 49 49 S02E04 How to Job Search When Your Title Doesn’t Match Your Skills| Scott Toren full a00cc9aa-d80f-4ebe-8acb-6914d3423c8a https://share.transistor.fm/s/74ff103c Summary

Scott Torrin, an operational excellence and continuous improvement professional, joins Route to Success to talk openly about the pain of feeling stuck between his current job title and the career he knows he's capable of. He and the host dig into how mismatched job titles create real barriers in the job search, how AI-driven hiring has flooded the process with applicants, and how family, faith in "the one right match," and taking things one bridge at a time keep him moving forward.

Show Notes

00:00 - Intro: the show explores feeling stuck between what you've done and what you're capable of

00:18 - Meet guest Scott Torrin and the problem of career growth tied to job titles, not skills

00:58 - Scott thanks the host for the opportunity to have a difficult, vulnerable conversation

01:11 - How the host and Scott met through an OU advisory board

01:30 - Scott's career path across retail, pharma, and engineering/construction industries

02:19 - The realization: identifying which workdays didn't feel like work

02:24 - Example: chasing down a documentation issue outside his job scope

03:39 - Host digs into how Scott arrived at the "what days made me happiest" question

04:08 - Mundane work as the contrast that revealed his real passion for problem-solving

05:43 - Host on the value of brutally honest self-reflection

06:10 - How mismatched job titles have hurt Scott's confidence and job search

07:11 - Why "operational excellence" means wildly different things across companies

08:07 - Second-guessing years of experience when titles don't match job postings

09:37 - Host shares her own hiring philosophy on degrees vs. real-world experience

10:52 - Companies claiming to hire for skills but actually hiring for title-matched experience

11:16 - The AI arms race in job applications and resumes

11:50 - Job postings getting 300 to 12,000 applicants

12:16 - ATS and AI screening tools replacing human resume review

12:48 - Using ChatGPT carefully to refine his resume while keeping his authentic voice

13:37 - Scott's old-school plan: mailing hard-copy resumes and cover letters to targeted companies

14:27 - Host draws a parallel to nonprofit grant fundraising and the power of personal connection

15:03 - The impact of handwritten thank-you notes and direct outreach

16:34 - Why Scott's professional network (mostly scientists) hasn't helped his job search

17:05 - Being intentional about networking through chambers of commerce and local business groups

18:03 - How it feels day-to-day to not be fulfilled in his current role

18:41 - Scott's current job: converting live trainings into e-learning modules

20:06 - The daily "slog" and lack of a larger sense of purpose

20:43 - How marriage and fatherhood changed Scott's career risk tolerance

21:07 - Balancing his wife's static optometrist income with his own career mobility

22:19 - His father's advice about taking risks and relocating when young

23:19 - Why relocation and travel-heavy work are now off the table

24:44 - Wanting his kids to see work as energizing, not a burden

25:31 - Host shares her own experience letting her daughter see her fail and grow

27:02 - How Scott resets and stays grounded after rejection

27:34 - The online dating analogy: job searching like Match.com odds

28:34 - Focusing on "the one right match" instead of volume of offers

30:38 - Keeping the job search from consuming his whole identity

32:16 - Being proactive: rejecting job listings that aren't the right fit before they reject you

32:19 - Host praises Scott's healthy boundaries in the process

33:18 - The big practical takeaway: "focus on the bridge in front of you first"

34:00 - Breaking big goals into one actionable step at a time

35:04 - Struggling to celebrate wins as an overthinker

36:05 - How Scott proactively reached out to be a podcast guest mid-board-meeting

37:35 - Host on the value of proactive outreach and being a "connector"

38:47 - Final advice: notice the tasks you choose to do, not just what's assigned

39:55 - Host's closing thanks and encouragement to take it one bridge at a time


SEO:


Scott Torrin opens up about career reinvention, mismatched job titles, AI-flooded hiring, and family-driven motivation on this candid Route to Success episode.


Keywords:

Scott Toren career transition operational excellence continuous improvement job search tips AI resume screening career identity 


]]> Summary

Scott Torrin, an operational excellence and continuous improvement professional, joins Route to Success to talk openly about the pain of feeling stuck between his current job title and the career he knows he's capable of. He and the host dig into how mismatched job titles create real barriers in the job search, how AI-driven hiring has flooded the process with applicants, and how family, faith in "the one right match," and taking things one bridge at a time keep him moving forward.

Show Notes

00:00 - Intro: the show explores feeling stuck between what you've done and what you're capable of

00:18 - Meet guest Scott Torrin and the problem of career growth tied to job titles, not skills

00:58 - Scott thanks the host for the opportunity to have a difficult, vulnerable conversation

01:11 - How the host and Scott met through an OU advisory board

01:30 - Scott's career path across retail, pharma, and engineering/construction industries

02:19 - The realization: identifying which workdays didn't feel like work

02:24 - Example: chasing down a documentation issue outside his job scope

03:39 - Host digs into how Scott arrived at the "what days made me happiest" question

04:08 - Mundane work as the contrast that revealed his real passion for problem-solving

05:43 - Host on the value of brutally honest self-reflection

06:10 - How mismatched job titles have hurt Scott's confidence and job search

07:11 - Why "operational excellence" means wildly different things across companies

08:07 - Second-guessing years of experience when titles don't match job postings

09:37 - Host shares her own hiring philosophy on degrees vs. real-world experience

10:52 - Companies claiming to hire for skills but actually hiring for title-matched experience

11:16 - The AI arms race in job applications and resumes

11:50 - Job postings getting 300 to 12,000 applicants

12:16 - ATS and AI screening tools replacing human resume review

12:48 - Using ChatGPT carefully to refine his resume while keeping his authentic voice

13:37 - Scott's old-school plan: mailing hard-copy resumes and cover letters to targeted companies

14:27 - Host draws a parallel to nonprofit grant fundraising and the power of personal connection

15:03 - The impact of handwritten thank-you notes and direct outreach

16:34 - Why Scott's professional network (mostly scientists) hasn't helped his job search

17:05 - Being intentional about networking through chambers of commerce and local business groups

18:03 - How it feels day-to-day to not be fulfilled in his current role

18:41 - Scott's current job: converting live trainings into e-learning modules

20:06 - The daily "slog" and lack of a larger sense of purpose

20:43 - How marriage and fatherhood changed Scott's career risk tolerance

21:07 - Balancing his wife's static optometrist income with his own career mobility

22:19 - His father's advice about taking risks and relocating when young

23:19 - Why relocation and travel-heavy work are now off the table

24:44 - Wanting his kids to see work as energizing, not a burden

25:31 - Host shares her own experience letting her daughter see her fail and grow

27:02 - How Scott resets and stays grounded after rejection

27:34 - The online dating analogy: job searching like Match.com odds

28:34 - Focusing on "the one right match" instead of volume of offers

30:38 - Keeping the job search from consuming his whole identity

32:16 - Being proactive: rejecting job listings that aren't the right fit before they reject you

32:19 - Host praises Scott's healthy boundaries in the process

33:18 - The big practical takeaway: "focus on the bridge in front of you first"

34:00 - Breaking big goals into one actionable step at a time

35:04 - Struggling to celebrate wins as an overthinker

36:05 - How Scott proactively reached out to be a podcast guest mid-board-meeting

37:35 - Host on the value of proactive outreach and being a "connector"

38:47 - Final advice: notice the tasks you choose to do, not just what's assigned

39:55 - Host's closing thanks and encouragement to take it one bridge at a time


SEO:


Scott Torrin opens up about career reinvention, mismatched job titles, AI-flooded hiring, and family-driven motivation on this candid Route to Success episode.


Keywords:

Scott Toren career transition operational excellence continuous improvement job search tips AI resume screening career identity 


]]> Thu, 13 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2453 Summary

Scott Torrin, an operational excellence and continuous improvement professional, joins Route to Success to talk openly about the pain of feeling stuck between his current job title and the career he knows he's capable of. He and the host dig into how mismatched job titles create real barriers in the job search, how AI-driven hiring has flooded the process with applicants, and how family, faith in "the one right match," and taking things one bridge at a time keep him moving forward.

Show Notes

00:00 - Intro: the show explores feeling stuck between what you've done and what you're capable of

00:18 - Meet guest Scott Torrin and the problem of career growth tied to job titles, not skills

00:58 - Scott thanks the host for the opportunity to have a difficult, vulnerable conversation

01:11 - How the host and Scott met through an OU advisory board

01:30 - Scott's career path across retail, pharma, and engineering/construction industries

02:19 - The realization: identifying which workdays didn't feel like work

02:24 - Example: chasing down a documentation issue outside his job scope

03:39 - Host digs into how Scott arrived at the "what days made me happiest" question

04:08 - Mundane work as the contrast that revealed his real passion for problem-solving

05:43 - Host on the value of brutally honest self-reflection

06:10 - How mismatched job titles have hurt Scott's confidence and job search

07:11 - Why "operational excellence" means wildly different things across companies

08:07 - Second-guessing years of experience when titles don't match job postings

09:37 - Host shares her own hiring philosophy on degrees vs. real-world experience

10:52 - Companies claiming to hire for skills but actually hiring for title-matched experience

11:16 - The AI arms race in job applications and resumes

11:50 - Job postings getting 300 to 12,000 applicants

12:16 - ATS and AI screening tools replacing human resume review

12:48 - Using ChatGPT carefully to refine his resume while keeping his authentic voice

13:37 - Scott's old-school plan: mailing hard-copy resumes and cover letters to targeted companies

14:27 - Host draws a parallel to nonprofit grant fundraising and the power of personal connection

15:03 - The impact of handwritten thank-you notes and direct outreach

16:34 - Why Scott's professional network (mostly scientists) hasn't helped his job search

17:05 - Being intentional about networking through chambers of commerce and local business groups

18:03 - How it feels day-to-day to not be fulfilled in his current role

18:41 - Scott's current job: converting live trainings into e-learning modules

20:06 - The daily "slog" and lack of a larger sense of purpose

20:43 - How marriage and fatherhood changed Scott's career risk tolerance

21:07 - Balancing his wife's static optometrist income with his own career mobility

22:19 - His father's advice about taking risks and relocating when young

23:19 - Why relocation and travel-heavy work are now off the table

24:44 - Wanting his kids to see work as energizing, not a burden

25:31 - Host shares her own experience letting her daughter see her fail and grow

27:02 - How Scott resets and stays grounded after rejection

27:34 - The online dating analogy: job searching like Match.com odds

28:34 - Focusing on "the one right match" instead of volume of offers

30:38 - Keeping the job search from consuming his whole identity

32:16 - Being proactive: rejecting job listings that aren't the right fit before they reject you

32:19 - Host praises Scott's healthy boundaries in the process

33:18 - The big practical takeaway: "focus on the bridge in front of you first"

34:00 - Breaking big goals into one actionable step at a time

35:04 - Struggling to celebrate wins as an overthinker

36:05 - How Scott proactively reached out to be a podcast guest mid-board-meeting

37:35 - Host on the value of proactive outreach and being a "connector"

38:47 - Final advice: notice the tasks you choose to do, not just what's assigned

39:55 - Host's closing thanks and encouragement to take it one bridge at a time


SEO:


Scott Torrin opens up about career reinvention, mismatched job titles, AI-flooded hiring, and family-driven motivation on this candid Route to Success episode.


Keywords:

Scott Toren career transition operational excellence continuous improvement job search tips AI resume screening career identity 


]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S02E03 What Do You Do When Life Tells You to Stop? | Sarah Jakle 48 48 S02E03 What Do You Do When Life Tells You to Stop? | Sarah Jakle full 211acf32-9866-4d7e-a24e-a09345fe72f1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/eac84893
Sarah Jackal, founder of the national nonprofit, Democrashe, shares how being told she'd never work again after a chronic illness diagnosis led her to study brain science and resilience, eventually building tools like the "inner best friend" and "inner champion." She discusses how these tools carried her into national political leadership roles and now power her program, which operates in 42 states equipping high school girls with resilience skills and civic engagement training.

Link to Democrashe’s website: https://www.democrashe.org/ 


Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme: resilience, identity, and turning adversity into impact

00:15 - Guest intro: Sarah Jackal's 2014 chronic illness diagnosis and founding of Democrashe, active in 42 states

01:06 - Sarah Jackal welcomed to the show

01:25 - Sarah recounts the moment she was told she'd never work again as a social worker

02:19 - Living on the couch for two and a half years and realizing she could control how she showed up

02:54 - Turning to studying the brain and resiliency during her recovery

03:47 - Question: what skills and brain rewiring emerged from that period

04:05 - Explaining the prefrontal cortex vs. the amygdala and fight/flight/freeze responses

05:04 - How the amygdala responds to somatic, grounding language rather than logic

05:37 - Studying Dr. Kristin Neff's self-compassion work and acceptance commitment therapy

05:49 - The "grounding with mother earth" technique explained

06:14 - Introducing the "inner best friend" and "inner champion" tools

06:39 - Barack Obama and her dog Max as her original inner best friends

07:37 - Host connects the concept to her own meditation and gardening routine as grounding practices

08:22 - Host shares her struggle with a harsh inner critic

09:04 - Sarah explains why the inner critic is trying to help, and the "Thank You Brain" technique

10:16 - More on choosing figures for your inner best friend (Michelle Obama, Wonder Woman, Taylor Swift)

11:12 - Explaining the "inner champion" figures like Stacey Abrams, Megan Rapinoe, and Jeannette Rankin

13:00 - Question: how resilience tools helped her step into national political leadership

13:34 - Breaking tasks into tiny steps, like "just get in the car," to overcome overwhelm

14:17 - Becoming national outreach director for Field Team Six and get-out-the-vote director for California NOW

14:53 - Learning to shift "no" into "yes" despite being told she'd never work again

16:08 - Host shares her own health challenges and the power of taking one small step at a time

18:04 - The research-backed importance of celebrating small steps to reinforce progress

18:53 - Using a pet as a stand-in to help celebrate yourself when self-celebration feels hard

20:56 - Dogs and cats as some of the most profound "inner best friends," including on Zoom calls with Democrashe participants

21:34 - Introducing Democrashe: teaching resilience and civics to high school girls

22:00 - Why high school is the last time boys and girls believe equally they can run for office

22:11 - Imposter syndrome and the gender gap in seeing oneself as a candidate

22:34 - Statistics on harassment faced by women candidates and current congressional representation

23:45 - The overwhelm and exhaustion facing today's teens, and hyperarousal vs. hypoarousal

25:09 - Host shares her own experience with workplace gender pushback

26:04 - Why women's voices are needed at every table, from policy to science

27:18 - The crash-test dummy example of how excluding women from research costs lives

28:04 - The peer-led model of Democrashe and letting girls run their own workshops

29:07 - The "prepare, love, let go, learn" motto and "you can't do it wrong"

30:29 - How listeners can find and apply to Democrashe programs via democrashe.org

31:05 - Explanation of the 10-week flagship program, one-day intensives, and free self-directed program

31:35 - Girls are paid a stipend to remove financial barriers to participation

32:09 - Donation options explained and how funding levels support different program elements

33:59 - Host adds her nonprofit expertise to frame the return on investment of donations

36:04 - Closing thoughts: resilience as a muscle you build, and where to find Democrashe

36:58 - Sign-off and call to like, share, and subscribe


]]>
Sarah Jackal, founder of the national nonprofit, Democrashe, shares how being told she'd never work again after a chronic illness diagnosis led her to study brain science and resilience, eventually building tools like the "inner best friend" and "inner champion." She discusses how these tools carried her into national political leadership roles and now power her program, which operates in 42 states equipping high school girls with resilience skills and civic engagement training.

Link to Democrashe’s website: https://www.democrashe.org/ 


Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme: resilience, identity, and turning adversity into impact

00:15 - Guest intro: Sarah Jackal's 2014 chronic illness diagnosis and founding of Democrashe, active in 42 states

01:06 - Sarah Jackal welcomed to the show

01:25 - Sarah recounts the moment she was told she'd never work again as a social worker

02:19 - Living on the couch for two and a half years and realizing she could control how she showed up

02:54 - Turning to studying the brain and resiliency during her recovery

03:47 - Question: what skills and brain rewiring emerged from that period

04:05 - Explaining the prefrontal cortex vs. the amygdala and fight/flight/freeze responses

05:04 - How the amygdala responds to somatic, grounding language rather than logic

05:37 - Studying Dr. Kristin Neff's self-compassion work and acceptance commitment therapy

05:49 - The "grounding with mother earth" technique explained

06:14 - Introducing the "inner best friend" and "inner champion" tools

06:39 - Barack Obama and her dog Max as her original inner best friends

07:37 - Host connects the concept to her own meditation and gardening routine as grounding practices

08:22 - Host shares her struggle with a harsh inner critic

09:04 - Sarah explains why the inner critic is trying to help, and the "Thank You Brain" technique

10:16 - More on choosing figures for your inner best friend (Michelle Obama, Wonder Woman, Taylor Swift)

11:12 - Explaining the "inner champion" figures like Stacey Abrams, Megan Rapinoe, and Jeannette Rankin

13:00 - Question: how resilience tools helped her step into national political leadership

13:34 - Breaking tasks into tiny steps, like "just get in the car," to overcome overwhelm

14:17 - Becoming national outreach director for Field Team Six and get-out-the-vote director for California NOW

14:53 - Learning to shift "no" into "yes" despite being told she'd never work again

16:08 - Host shares her own health challenges and the power of taking one small step at a time

18:04 - The research-backed importance of celebrating small steps to reinforce progress

18:53 - Using a pet as a stand-in to help celebrate yourself when self-celebration feels hard

20:56 - Dogs and cats as some of the most profound "inner best friends," including on Zoom calls with Democrashe participants

21:34 - Introducing Democrashe: teaching resilience and civics to high school girls

22:00 - Why high school is the last time boys and girls believe equally they can run for office

22:11 - Imposter syndrome and the gender gap in seeing oneself as a candidate

22:34 - Statistics on harassment faced by women candidates and current congressional representation

23:45 - The overwhelm and exhaustion facing today's teens, and hyperarousal vs. hypoarousal

25:09 - Host shares her own experience with workplace gender pushback

26:04 - Why women's voices are needed at every table, from policy to science

27:18 - The crash-test dummy example of how excluding women from research costs lives

28:04 - The peer-led model of Democrashe and letting girls run their own workshops

29:07 - The "prepare, love, let go, learn" motto and "you can't do it wrong"

30:29 - How listeners can find and apply to Democrashe programs via democrashe.org

31:05 - Explanation of the 10-week flagship program, one-day intensives, and free self-directed program

31:35 - Girls are paid a stipend to remove financial barriers to participation

32:09 - Donation options explained and how funding levels support different program elements

33:59 - Host adds her nonprofit expertise to frame the return on investment of donations

36:04 - Closing thoughts: resilience as a muscle you build, and where to find Democrashe

36:58 - Sign-off and call to like, share, and subscribe


]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 21:58:57 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2251
Sarah Jackal, founder of the national nonprofit, Democrashe, shares how being told she'd never work again after a chronic illness diagnosis led her to study brain science and resilience, eventually building tools like the "inner best friend" and "inner champion." She discusses how these tools carried her into national political leadership roles and now power her program, which operates in 42 states equipping high school girls with resilience skills and civic engagement training.

Link to Democrashe’s website: https://www.democrashe.org/ 


Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme: resilience, identity, and turning adversity into impact

00:15 - Guest intro: Sarah Jackal's 2014 chronic illness diagnosis and founding of Democrashe, active in 42 states

01:06 - Sarah Jackal welcomed to the show

01:25 - Sarah recounts the moment she was told she'd never work again as a social worker

02:19 - Living on the couch for two and a half years and realizing she could control how she showed up

02:54 - Turning to studying the brain and resiliency during her recovery

03:47 - Question: what skills and brain rewiring emerged from that period

04:05 - Explaining the prefrontal cortex vs. the amygdala and fight/flight/freeze responses

05:04 - How the amygdala responds to somatic, grounding language rather than logic

05:37 - Studying Dr. Kristin Neff's self-compassion work and acceptance commitment therapy

05:49 - The "grounding with mother earth" technique explained

06:14 - Introducing the "inner best friend" and "inner champion" tools

06:39 - Barack Obama and her dog Max as her original inner best friends

07:37 - Host connects the concept to her own meditation and gardening routine as grounding practices

08:22 - Host shares her struggle with a harsh inner critic

09:04 - Sarah explains why the inner critic is trying to help, and the "Thank You Brain" technique

10:16 - More on choosing figures for your inner best friend (Michelle Obama, Wonder Woman, Taylor Swift)

11:12 - Explaining the "inner champion" figures like Stacey Abrams, Megan Rapinoe, and Jeannette Rankin

13:00 - Question: how resilience tools helped her step into national political leadership

13:34 - Breaking tasks into tiny steps, like "just get in the car," to overcome overwhelm

14:17 - Becoming national outreach director for Field Team Six and get-out-the-vote director for California NOW

14:53 - Learning to shift "no" into "yes" despite being told she'd never work again

16:08 - Host shares her own health challenges and the power of taking one small step at a time

18:04 - The research-backed importance of celebrating small steps to reinforce progress

18:53 - Using a pet as a stand-in to help celebrate yourself when self-celebration feels hard

20:56 - Dogs and cats as some of the most profound "inner best friends," including on Zoom calls with Democrashe participants

21:34 - Introducing Democrashe: teaching resilience and civics to high school girls

22:00 - Why high school is the last time boys and girls believe equally they can run for office

22:11 - Imposter syndrome and the gender gap in seeing oneself as a candidate

22:34 - Statistics on harassment faced by women candidates and current congressional representation

23:45 - The overwhelm and exhaustion facing today's teens, and hyperarousal vs. hypoarousal

25:09 - Host shares her own experience with workplace gender pushback

26:04 - Why women's voices are needed at every table, from policy to science

27:18 - The crash-test dummy example of how excluding women from research costs lives

28:04 - The peer-led model of Democrashe and letting girls run their own workshops

29:07 - The "prepare, love, let go, learn" motto and "you can't do it wrong"

30:29 - How listeners can find and apply to Democrashe programs via democrashe.org

31:05 - Explanation of the 10-week flagship program, one-day intensives, and free self-directed program

31:35 - Girls are paid a stipend to remove financial barriers to participation

32:09 - Donation options explained and how funding levels support different program elements

33:59 - Host adds her nonprofit expertise to frame the return on investment of donations

36:04 - Closing thoughts: resilience as a muscle you build, and where to find Democrashe

36:58 - Sign-off and call to like, share, and subscribe


]]> Sarah Jakle Democrashe nonprofit resilience tools inner best friend chronic illness recovery civic engagement for girls women in leadership self-compassion brain science No S02E02 The Hidden Signs of Burnout Nobody Warns You About | Erin Treacy 47 47 S02E02 The Hidden Signs of Burnout Nobody Warns You About | Erin Treacy full 521fd070-fbca-4209-aa4c-426cff7523ce https://share.transistor.fm/s/f9edfd6a
Summary


Erin Treacy — former TV producer, nonprofit leader, and restaurant owner — shares how a decade of high-performance leadership led to a physical breakdown from compressed spinal discs and full-blown burnout. She and the host unpack how burnout actually shows up in the body and mind, why people miss the warning signs, and how to rebuild identity, leadership style, and support systems after being forced to stop.


Erin’s Website: https://erintreacycoaching.com/ 


SEO Description


Erin Treacy opens up about burnout, leadership, and rebuilding after her body forced her to stop, sharing real signs of burnout and practical recovery steps.


Show Notes:

00:00 - Intro: welcoming guest Erin Treacy and previewing a deeper episode on burnout and rebuilding

01:01 - Erin Treacy officially welcomed to the show

01:33 - The big question: Erin's non-linear career from TV journalism to nonprofits to restaurants

03:13 - How leadership skills transferred across industries as a "human juggler"

03:28 - Opening the family restaurant and teaching teenage kids workplace leadership

05:04 - Why we expect leadership but never actually teach it

06:05 - Leading on your bad days and showing up as human with your team

09:01 - A staff mental health conversation sparked by Sara's own vulnerability

10:05 - Transitioning into the topic of burnout and why it's overused as a buzzword

11:01 - Erin's early physical burnout signs: constant pain, Tylenol, ibuprofen, lidocaine patches

13:24 - The moment Erin's leg went numb on the cook line

14:20 - Diagnosis: compressed discs (L4, L5, S1) cutting off nerve signals

15:31 - Her husband's warning that her pace was unsustainable

16:31 - Deciding to close the restaurants and the physical "sign to stop"

16:48 - Hearing another speaker's burnout story at a conference and recognizing herself in it

19:31 - Sara shares her own burnout experience and the seven areas of health

20:35 - Discussion on doctors dismissing symptoms and defaulting to "it's just stress"

23:57 - Why people can't hear burnout warnings until they're ready

26:07 - Her husband's gentle repeated nudges before she could finally listen

27:12 - Three to five signs someone is approaching burnout

29:42 - Burnout compared to addiction and pushing loved ones away

31:01 - What Erin learned about over-helping and the cost of "I'll just do it myself"

34:00 - The laundry-folding story: letting go of control and the "art of good enough"

38:16 - Introducing "people first" leadership versus servant leadership

40:20 - The restaurant "swap day" cross-training story and its impact on culture

45:41 - Rebuilding a support system after burnout and pushing back into community

47:38 - Finding activities, hiking without cell service, and saying yes to discomfort

53:00 - Practical small steps: starting conversations at the grocery store and coffee shop

57:28 - Rebuilding circles slowly and referencing the book "Rich Relationships"

1:00:39 - First steps to begin recovery today, and how to support someone in burnout

1:07:00 - The importance of play as an adult and setting boundaries around it

1:10:01 - Closing story about joy, connection, and dancing through hard days

1:11:59 - How to reach Erin Tracy through coaching and social media

1:14:12 - Final thanks and sign-off


]]>
Summary


Erin Treacy — former TV producer, nonprofit leader, and restaurant owner — shares how a decade of high-performance leadership led to a physical breakdown from compressed spinal discs and full-blown burnout. She and the host unpack how burnout actually shows up in the body and mind, why people miss the warning signs, and how to rebuild identity, leadership style, and support systems after being forced to stop.


Erin’s Website: https://erintreacycoaching.com/ 


SEO Description


Erin Treacy opens up about burnout, leadership, and rebuilding after her body forced her to stop, sharing real signs of burnout and practical recovery steps.


Show Notes:

00:00 - Intro: welcoming guest Erin Treacy and previewing a deeper episode on burnout and rebuilding

01:01 - Erin Treacy officially welcomed to the show

01:33 - The big question: Erin's non-linear career from TV journalism to nonprofits to restaurants

03:13 - How leadership skills transferred across industries as a "human juggler"

03:28 - Opening the family restaurant and teaching teenage kids workplace leadership

05:04 - Why we expect leadership but never actually teach it

06:05 - Leading on your bad days and showing up as human with your team

09:01 - A staff mental health conversation sparked by Sara's own vulnerability

10:05 - Transitioning into the topic of burnout and why it's overused as a buzzword

11:01 - Erin's early physical burnout signs: constant pain, Tylenol, ibuprofen, lidocaine patches

13:24 - The moment Erin's leg went numb on the cook line

14:20 - Diagnosis: compressed discs (L4, L5, S1) cutting off nerve signals

15:31 - Her husband's warning that her pace was unsustainable

16:31 - Deciding to close the restaurants and the physical "sign to stop"

16:48 - Hearing another speaker's burnout story at a conference and recognizing herself in it

19:31 - Sara shares her own burnout experience and the seven areas of health

20:35 - Discussion on doctors dismissing symptoms and defaulting to "it's just stress"

23:57 - Why people can't hear burnout warnings until they're ready

26:07 - Her husband's gentle repeated nudges before she could finally listen

27:12 - Three to five signs someone is approaching burnout

29:42 - Burnout compared to addiction and pushing loved ones away

31:01 - What Erin learned about over-helping and the cost of "I'll just do it myself"

34:00 - The laundry-folding story: letting go of control and the "art of good enough"

38:16 - Introducing "people first" leadership versus servant leadership

40:20 - The restaurant "swap day" cross-training story and its impact on culture

45:41 - Rebuilding a support system after burnout and pushing back into community

47:38 - Finding activities, hiking without cell service, and saying yes to discomfort

53:00 - Practical small steps: starting conversations at the grocery store and coffee shop

57:28 - Rebuilding circles slowly and referencing the book "Rich Relationships"

1:00:39 - First steps to begin recovery today, and how to support someone in burnout

1:07:00 - The importance of play as an adult and setting boundaries around it

1:10:01 - Closing story about joy, connection, and dancing through hard days

1:11:59 - How to reach Erin Tracy through coaching and social media

1:14:12 - Final thanks and sign-off


]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2026 21:02:50 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 4465
Summary


Erin Treacy — former TV producer, nonprofit leader, and restaurant owner — shares how a decade of high-performance leadership led to a physical breakdown from compressed spinal discs and full-blown burnout. She and the host unpack how burnout actually shows up in the body and mind, why people miss the warning signs, and how to rebuild identity, leadership style, and support systems after being forced to stop.


Erin’s Website: https://erintreacycoaching.com/ 


SEO Description


Erin Treacy opens up about burnout, leadership, and rebuilding after her body forced her to stop, sharing real signs of burnout and practical recovery steps.


Show Notes:

00:00 - Intro: welcoming guest Erin Treacy and previewing a deeper episode on burnout and rebuilding

01:01 - Erin Treacy officially welcomed to the show

01:33 - The big question: Erin's non-linear career from TV journalism to nonprofits to restaurants

03:13 - How leadership skills transferred across industries as a "human juggler"

03:28 - Opening the family restaurant and teaching teenage kids workplace leadership

05:04 - Why we expect leadership but never actually teach it

06:05 - Leading on your bad days and showing up as human with your team

09:01 - A staff mental health conversation sparked by Sara's own vulnerability

10:05 - Transitioning into the topic of burnout and why it's overused as a buzzword

11:01 - Erin's early physical burnout signs: constant pain, Tylenol, ibuprofen, lidocaine patches

13:24 - The moment Erin's leg went numb on the cook line

14:20 - Diagnosis: compressed discs (L4, L5, S1) cutting off nerve signals

15:31 - Her husband's warning that her pace was unsustainable

16:31 - Deciding to close the restaurants and the physical "sign to stop"

16:48 - Hearing another speaker's burnout story at a conference and recognizing herself in it

19:31 - Sara shares her own burnout experience and the seven areas of health

20:35 - Discussion on doctors dismissing symptoms and defaulting to "it's just stress"

23:57 - Why people can't hear burnout warnings until they're ready

26:07 - Her husband's gentle repeated nudges before she could finally listen

27:12 - Three to five signs someone is approaching burnout

29:42 - Burnout compared to addiction and pushing loved ones away

31:01 - What Erin learned about over-helping and the cost of "I'll just do it myself"

34:00 - The laundry-folding story: letting go of control and the "art of good enough"

38:16 - Introducing "people first" leadership versus servant leadership

40:20 - The restaurant "swap day" cross-training story and its impact on culture

45:41 - Rebuilding a support system after burnout and pushing back into community

47:38 - Finding activities, hiking without cell service, and saying yes to discomfort

53:00 - Practical small steps: starting conversations at the grocery store and coffee shop

57:28 - Rebuilding circles slowly and referencing the book "Rich Relationships"

1:00:39 - First steps to begin recovery today, and how to support someone in burnout

1:07:00 - The importance of play as an adult and setting boundaries around it

1:10:01 - Closing story about joy, connection, and dancing through hard days

1:11:59 - How to reach Erin Tracy through coaching and social media

1:14:12 - Final thanks and sign-off


]]> Erin Treacy burnout recovery leadership burnout people first leadership restaurant owner burnout signs of burnout rebuilding support system women’s health and burnout No S02E01 From Corporate Tech to Purpose-Driven Consulting: A Founder's Story | Samir Abukhodair 46 46 S02E01 From Corporate Tech to Purpose-Driven Consulting: A Founder's Story | Samir Abukhodair full 949d9efa-a900-4a9e-b10d-38ad927f2867 https://share.transistor.fm/s/49afa2db
Samir Abukhodair shares his winding journey from engineering and corporate tech into teaching and eventually founding Creatures of, a business rooted in helping people rather than chasing sales. He and host Sara dig into finding courage to walk away from misaligned careers, building systems that balance strategy with human connection, and practical steps for anyone feeling stuck in their career.

Samir Abukhodair shares how he left corporate tech to build a purpose-driven consulting business rooted in teaching, connection, and helping people over profit.

Show Notes:

00:02 - Welcome to Root to Success: today's focus on alignment over titles and success on paper

00:18 - Introducing guest Samir Abukhodair and his path from engineering through corporate tech

00:56 - Episode preview: building a business and life grounded in purpose and systems

01:08 - Samir's traditional path into engineering and tech

01:38 - Why engineering didn't match what he expected

01:53 - Moving to New York City and the excitement of the tech startup era

02:19 - Realizing the stress was tied to a specific role, not real fulfillment

02:44 - The final straw and decision to walk away from tech

03:03 - Question: where did the courage to walk away come from?

03:12 - Growing up in rural Minnesota and struggling to talk to adults

03:41 - How New York City and his wife helped him become bolder

04:04 - Realizing CEOs are just people too - overcoming intimidation

04:54 - Discussing the feeling of "soul leaving" a job

05:19 - What made him take action when others stay stuck

05:41 - Childhood dreams vs. eighty-hour tech work weeks

06:06 - Discovering a love for teaching and watching students' eyes light up

06:29 - Realizing his whole family are teachers - coming back to his roots

07:22 - What tutoring revealed about his natural teaching and coaching skills

07:34 - Recognizing he was already teaching and coaching within his tech job

08:08 - His final tech role in revenue enablement and connecting the dots to teaching

08:33 - Bringing together tech, teaching, and people skills into one practice

09:12 - Building a company around the core mission of helping people

09:26 - Balancing financial pressure with staying mission-aligned

10:04 - Becoming a father and the added pressure to provide

10:38 - Trying cold calls and cold emails - and why it didn't work for him

11:01 - Choosing connection and community building over traditional sales

11:38 - How pilot programs turned into long-term lucrative client relationships

12:13 - Why focusing on the person before the task is critical for leaders

12:52 - The missing piece in most rulebooks: how to actually connect with people

13:34 - Building scalable systems with a client while keeping it simple

14:43 - Biggest gaps businesses have in building systems that actually work

15:01 - The limits of apps and technology for staying organized

15:34 - Teaching people to organize their day and prioritize

15:56 - Sunday scaries and where that anxiety really comes from

16:33 - Digital vs. paper planner debate

17:20 - Using paper planners for hands-on projects and construction work

17:58 - The lost art of blocking time on the calendar

18:04 - The big question: one practical step for someone feeling stuck or misaligned

19:03 - Coming back to the core reason you started in the first place

19:22 - Why having real conversations with people is the biggest growth tool

20:01 - Embracing uncomfortable conversations as a path to growth

20:34 - How to connect with Samir: Creatures of Consulting and Creatures of Learning

21:13 - Education branch offerings: summer, fall, and spring learning packages

21:26 - The importance of preventing summer learning loss in kids

21:54 - Closing thoughts on courage, meditation, and following your heart


]]>
Samir Abukhodair shares his winding journey from engineering and corporate tech into teaching and eventually founding Creatures of, a business rooted in helping people rather than chasing sales. He and host Sara dig into finding courage to walk away from misaligned careers, building systems that balance strategy with human connection, and practical steps for anyone feeling stuck in their career.

Samir Abukhodair shares how he left corporate tech to build a purpose-driven consulting business rooted in teaching, connection, and helping people over profit.

Show Notes:

00:02 - Welcome to Root to Success: today's focus on alignment over titles and success on paper

00:18 - Introducing guest Samir Abukhodair and his path from engineering through corporate tech

00:56 - Episode preview: building a business and life grounded in purpose and systems

01:08 - Samir's traditional path into engineering and tech

01:38 - Why engineering didn't match what he expected

01:53 - Moving to New York City and the excitement of the tech startup era

02:19 - Realizing the stress was tied to a specific role, not real fulfillment

02:44 - The final straw and decision to walk away from tech

03:03 - Question: where did the courage to walk away come from?

03:12 - Growing up in rural Minnesota and struggling to talk to adults

03:41 - How New York City and his wife helped him become bolder

04:04 - Realizing CEOs are just people too - overcoming intimidation

04:54 - Discussing the feeling of "soul leaving" a job

05:19 - What made him take action when others stay stuck

05:41 - Childhood dreams vs. eighty-hour tech work weeks

06:06 - Discovering a love for teaching and watching students' eyes light up

06:29 - Realizing his whole family are teachers - coming back to his roots

07:22 - What tutoring revealed about his natural teaching and coaching skills

07:34 - Recognizing he was already teaching and coaching within his tech job

08:08 - His final tech role in revenue enablement and connecting the dots to teaching

08:33 - Bringing together tech, teaching, and people skills into one practice

09:12 - Building a company around the core mission of helping people

09:26 - Balancing financial pressure with staying mission-aligned

10:04 - Becoming a father and the added pressure to provide

10:38 - Trying cold calls and cold emails - and why it didn't work for him

11:01 - Choosing connection and community building over traditional sales

11:38 - How pilot programs turned into long-term lucrative client relationships

12:13 - Why focusing on the person before the task is critical for leaders

12:52 - The missing piece in most rulebooks: how to actually connect with people

13:34 - Building scalable systems with a client while keeping it simple

14:43 - Biggest gaps businesses have in building systems that actually work

15:01 - The limits of apps and technology for staying organized

15:34 - Teaching people to organize their day and prioritize

15:56 - Sunday scaries and where that anxiety really comes from

16:33 - Digital vs. paper planner debate

17:20 - Using paper planners for hands-on projects and construction work

17:58 - The lost art of blocking time on the calendar

18:04 - The big question: one practical step for someone feeling stuck or misaligned

19:03 - Coming back to the core reason you started in the first place

19:22 - Why having real conversations with people is the biggest growth tool

20:01 - Embracing uncomfortable conversations as a path to growth

20:34 - How to connect with Samir: Creatures of Consulting and Creatures of Learning

21:13 - Education branch offerings: summer, fall, and spring learning packages

21:26 - The importance of preventing summer learning loss in kids

21:54 - Closing thoughts on courage, meditation, and following your heart


]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2026 22:47:30 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1368
Samir Abukhodair shares his winding journey from engineering and corporate tech into teaching and eventually founding Creatures of, a business rooted in helping people rather than chasing sales. He and host Sara dig into finding courage to walk away from misaligned careers, building systems that balance strategy with human connection, and practical steps for anyone feeling stuck in their career.

Samir Abukhodair shares how he left corporate tech to build a purpose-driven consulting business rooted in teaching, connection, and helping people over profit.

Show Notes:

00:02 - Welcome to Root to Success: today's focus on alignment over titles and success on paper

00:18 - Introducing guest Samir Abukhodair and his path from engineering through corporate tech

00:56 - Episode preview: building a business and life grounded in purpose and systems

01:08 - Samir's traditional path into engineering and tech

01:38 - Why engineering didn't match what he expected

01:53 - Moving to New York City and the excitement of the tech startup era

02:19 - Realizing the stress was tied to a specific role, not real fulfillment

02:44 - The final straw and decision to walk away from tech

03:03 - Question: where did the courage to walk away come from?

03:12 - Growing up in rural Minnesota and struggling to talk to adults

03:41 - How New York City and his wife helped him become bolder

04:04 - Realizing CEOs are just people too - overcoming intimidation

04:54 - Discussing the feeling of "soul leaving" a job

05:19 - What made him take action when others stay stuck

05:41 - Childhood dreams vs. eighty-hour tech work weeks

06:06 - Discovering a love for teaching and watching students' eyes light up

06:29 - Realizing his whole family are teachers - coming back to his roots

07:22 - What tutoring revealed about his natural teaching and coaching skills

07:34 - Recognizing he was already teaching and coaching within his tech job

08:08 - His final tech role in revenue enablement and connecting the dots to teaching

08:33 - Bringing together tech, teaching, and people skills into one practice

09:12 - Building a company around the core mission of helping people

09:26 - Balancing financial pressure with staying mission-aligned

10:04 - Becoming a father and the added pressure to provide

10:38 - Trying cold calls and cold emails - and why it didn't work for him

11:01 - Choosing connection and community building over traditional sales

11:38 - How pilot programs turned into long-term lucrative client relationships

12:13 - Why focusing on the person before the task is critical for leaders

12:52 - The missing piece in most rulebooks: how to actually connect with people

13:34 - Building scalable systems with a client while keeping it simple

14:43 - Biggest gaps businesses have in building systems that actually work

15:01 - The limits of apps and technology for staying organized

15:34 - Teaching people to organize their day and prioritize

15:56 - Sunday scaries and where that anxiety really comes from

16:33 - Digital vs. paper planner debate

17:20 - Using paper planners for hands-on projects and construction work

17:58 - The lost art of blocking time on the calendar

18:04 - The big question: one practical step for someone feeling stuck or misaligned

19:03 - Coming back to the core reason you started in the first place

19:22 - Why having real conversations with people is the biggest growth tool

20:01 - Embracing uncomfortable conversations as a path to growth

20:34 - How to connect with Samir: Creatures of Consulting and Creatures of Learning

21:13 - Education branch offerings: summer, fall, and spring learning packages

21:26 - The importance of preventing summer learning loss in kids

21:54 - Closing thoughts on courage, meditation, and following your heart


]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E44 Unlocking Effective Communication With the CPL Framework | Dee Dee Fisher 45 45 S01E44 Unlocking Effective Communication With the CPL Framework | Dee Dee Fisher full 04d3f893-ad04-45bf-8536-eefdf66b71e1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/73dfe147 In this powerful conversation, DeeDee Fisher explores the growing communication crisis in leadership and shares practical strategies to create clearer, more compassionate, and more effective dialogue in today’s workplace.

Using her CPL Framework — Compassion, Process, and Learning — Dee Dee explains how leaders can improve communication, reduce meeting fatigue, build stronger organizational cultures, and foster more energizing environments for their teams.

The discussion covers active listening, setting boundaries, using “I statements,” asking better questions, and creating meaningful conversations in an age dominated by social media and digital overwhelm.

Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, manager, or team member, this episode offers actionable tools you can apply immediately to communicate with greater clarity, empathy, and impact.

In this episode:
• The CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, and Learning
• Why we are facing a communication crisis
• How compassion improves difficult conversations
• Reducing meeting fatigue with structured communication
• The power of active listening in leadership
• Using “I statements” for better dialogue
• Creating energizing and productive work environments
• Setting boundaries for healthier leadership
• Building a positive organizational culture
• Technology, creativity, and the future of communication

Key Takeaway:
“Communication is not just about speaking — it’s about truly connecting.”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Communication Challenges
02:59 The CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, Learning
05:51 Understanding the Communication Crisis
09:08 Compassion in Difficult Conversations
11:54 Steps to Effective Communication
15:08 Meeting Fatigue and Efficient Communication
21:15 Efficient Meetings and Action Protocols
22:09 Energizing Work Environments
23:07 Utilizing Technology for Creativity
24:31 Active Listening and Communication
25:51 The Power of I Statements
28:24 Asking Questions and Seeking Clarity
30:38 Resetting as a Leader
32:44 Setting Boundaries for Effective Communication
36:21 Creating a Positive Organizational Culture
39:49 Final Tips for Effective Communication

#Leadership #Communication #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipSkills #ActiveListening #TeamCulture #WorkplaceCommunication #Productivity #OrganizationalCulture #LeadershipPodcast

]]> In this powerful conversation, DeeDee Fisher explores the growing communication crisis in leadership and shares practical strategies to create clearer, more compassionate, and more effective dialogue in today’s workplace.

Using her CPL Framework — Compassion, Process, and Learning — Dee Dee explains how leaders can improve communication, reduce meeting fatigue, build stronger organizational cultures, and foster more energizing environments for their teams.

The discussion covers active listening, setting boundaries, using “I statements,” asking better questions, and creating meaningful conversations in an age dominated by social media and digital overwhelm.

Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, manager, or team member, this episode offers actionable tools you can apply immediately to communicate with greater clarity, empathy, and impact.

In this episode:
• The CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, and Learning
• Why we are facing a communication crisis
• How compassion improves difficult conversations
• Reducing meeting fatigue with structured communication
• The power of active listening in leadership
• Using “I statements” for better dialogue
• Creating energizing and productive work environments
• Setting boundaries for healthier leadership
• Building a positive organizational culture
• Technology, creativity, and the future of communication

Key Takeaway:
“Communication is not just about speaking — it’s about truly connecting.”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Communication Challenges
02:59 The CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, Learning
05:51 Understanding the Communication Crisis
09:08 Compassion in Difficult Conversations
11:54 Steps to Effective Communication
15:08 Meeting Fatigue and Efficient Communication
21:15 Efficient Meetings and Action Protocols
22:09 Energizing Work Environments
23:07 Utilizing Technology for Creativity
24:31 Active Listening and Communication
25:51 The Power of I Statements
28:24 Asking Questions and Seeking Clarity
30:38 Resetting as a Leader
32:44 Setting Boundaries for Effective Communication
36:21 Creating a Positive Organizational Culture
39:49 Final Tips for Effective Communication

#Leadership #Communication #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipSkills #ActiveListening #TeamCulture #WorkplaceCommunication #Productivity #OrganizationalCulture #LeadershipPodcast

]]> Thu, 25 Jun 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2522 In this powerful conversation, DeeDee Fisher explores the growing communication crisis in leadership and shares practical strategies to create clearer, more compassionate, and more effective dialogue in today’s workplace.

Using her CPL Framework — Compassion, Process, and Learning — Dee Dee explains how leaders can improve communication, reduce meeting fatigue, build stronger organizational cultures, and foster more energizing environments for their teams.

The discussion covers active listening, setting boundaries, using “I statements,” asking better questions, and creating meaningful conversations in an age dominated by social media and digital overwhelm.

Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, manager, or team member, this episode offers actionable tools you can apply immediately to communicate with greater clarity, empathy, and impact.

In this episode:
• The CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, and Learning
• Why we are facing a communication crisis
• How compassion improves difficult conversations
• Reducing meeting fatigue with structured communication
• The power of active listening in leadership
• Using “I statements” for better dialogue
• Creating energizing and productive work environments
• Setting boundaries for healthier leadership
• Building a positive organizational culture
• Technology, creativity, and the future of communication

Key Takeaway:
“Communication is not just about speaking — it’s about truly connecting.”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Communication Challenges
02:59 The CPL Framework: Compassion, Process, Learning
05:51 Understanding the Communication Crisis
09:08 Compassion in Difficult Conversations
11:54 Steps to Effective Communication
15:08 Meeting Fatigue and Efficient Communication
21:15 Efficient Meetings and Action Protocols
22:09 Energizing Work Environments
23:07 Utilizing Technology for Creativity
24:31 Active Listening and Communication
25:51 The Power of I Statements
28:24 Asking Questions and Seeking Clarity
30:38 Resetting as a Leader
32:44 Setting Boundaries for Effective Communication
36:21 Creating a Positive Organizational Culture
39:49 Final Tips for Effective Communication

#Leadership #Communication #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipSkills #ActiveListening #TeamCulture #WorkplaceCommunication #Productivity #OrganizationalCulture #LeadershipPodcast

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E43 From Corporate Marketing to Nonprofit Leadership | Bree Carriglio 44 44 S01E43 From Corporate Marketing to Nonprofit Leadership | Bree Carriglio full 77c93e69-6716-440d-b100-98450d934a4e https://share.transistor.fm/s/903c1042 In this inspiring episode, Bree Carriglio shares her powerful journey from corporate marketing to nonprofit leadership, dedicating her life to supporting vulnerable communities in Armenia.

We explore what it truly means to lead under pressure, build resilient teams, and support people through humanitarian crises. Brie opens up about emotional intelligence in leadership, the importance of listening, creating a healthy team culture, and why strong leadership starts with compassion and trust.

From refugee support to holistic community care, this conversation offers valuable insights for leaders, nonprofit professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating uncertainty with purpose.

In this episode:
• Transitioning from corporate life to nonprofit leadership
• Leading teams through emotionally heavy work
• The power of listening and emotional intelligence
• Building trust and communication within organizations
• Supporting refugees and vulnerable communities
• Creating a culture of grace and resilience
• Practical leadership lessons for difficult times

Key Takeaway:
“You do not have to solve everything today. Focus on the next step.”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Leadership Under Pressure
03:00 Transitioning from Corporate to Nonprofit Leadership
05:57 Navigating Leadership Challenges
08:53 The Importance of Listening in Leadership
12:00 Holistic Approaches to Community Support
14:54 Responding to Humanitarian Crises
17:55 Supporting Staff in Emotionally Heavy Work
20:53 Cultivating a Culture of Grace
24:01 Building Trust and Communication in Teams
27:04 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

#Leadership #Nonprofit #EmotionalIntelligence #Humanitarian #TeamCulture #Resilience #CommunitySupport #LeadershipPodcast #RefugeeSupport #PurposeDrivenLeadership

]]> In this inspiring episode, Bree Carriglio shares her powerful journey from corporate marketing to nonprofit leadership, dedicating her life to supporting vulnerable communities in Armenia.

We explore what it truly means to lead under pressure, build resilient teams, and support people through humanitarian crises. Brie opens up about emotional intelligence in leadership, the importance of listening, creating a healthy team culture, and why strong leadership starts with compassion and trust.

From refugee support to holistic community care, this conversation offers valuable insights for leaders, nonprofit professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating uncertainty with purpose.

In this episode:
• Transitioning from corporate life to nonprofit leadership
• Leading teams through emotionally heavy work
• The power of listening and emotional intelligence
• Building trust and communication within organizations
• Supporting refugees and vulnerable communities
• Creating a culture of grace and resilience
• Practical leadership lessons for difficult times

Key Takeaway:
“You do not have to solve everything today. Focus on the next step.”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Leadership Under Pressure
03:00 Transitioning from Corporate to Nonprofit Leadership
05:57 Navigating Leadership Challenges
08:53 The Importance of Listening in Leadership
12:00 Holistic Approaches to Community Support
14:54 Responding to Humanitarian Crises
17:55 Supporting Staff in Emotionally Heavy Work
20:53 Cultivating a Culture of Grace
24:01 Building Trust and Communication in Teams
27:04 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

#Leadership #Nonprofit #EmotionalIntelligence #Humanitarian #TeamCulture #Resilience #CommunitySupport #LeadershipPodcast #RefugeeSupport #PurposeDrivenLeadership

]]> Thu, 18 Jun 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1624 In this inspiring episode, Bree Carriglio shares her powerful journey from corporate marketing to nonprofit leadership, dedicating her life to supporting vulnerable communities in Armenia.

We explore what it truly means to lead under pressure, build resilient teams, and support people through humanitarian crises. Brie opens up about emotional intelligence in leadership, the importance of listening, creating a healthy team culture, and why strong leadership starts with compassion and trust.

From refugee support to holistic community care, this conversation offers valuable insights for leaders, nonprofit professionals, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating uncertainty with purpose.

In this episode:
• Transitioning from corporate life to nonprofit leadership
• Leading teams through emotionally heavy work
• The power of listening and emotional intelligence
• Building trust and communication within organizations
• Supporting refugees and vulnerable communities
• Creating a culture of grace and resilience
• Practical leadership lessons for difficult times

Key Takeaway:
“You do not have to solve everything today. Focus on the next step.”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Leadership Under Pressure
03:00 Transitioning from Corporate to Nonprofit Leadership
05:57 Navigating Leadership Challenges
08:53 The Importance of Listening in Leadership
12:00 Holistic Approaches to Community Support
14:54 Responding to Humanitarian Crises
17:55 Supporting Staff in Emotionally Heavy Work
20:53 Cultivating a Culture of Grace
24:01 Building Trust and Communication in Teams
27:04 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

#Leadership #Nonprofit #EmotionalIntelligence #Humanitarian #TeamCulture #Resilience #CommunitySupport #LeadershipPodcast #RefugeeSupport #PurposeDrivenLeadership

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E42 Mastering the First 90 Days of Leadership | Neill Marshall and Kurt Mosley 43 43 S01E42 Mastering the First 90 Days of Leadership | Neill Marshall and Kurt Mosley full 5a66eb68-fc1b-4449-b125-2ad8590a062f https://share.transistor.fm/s/a45ffa89 In this conversation, Neil Marshall and Kurt Mosley discuss the critical first 90 days of leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding organizational culture, building trust, and making strategic decisions. They share real-world examples and actionable insights for leaders to navigate their initial period effectively, highlighting the balance between quick action and thoughtful decision-making. The discussion also covers the significance of small symbolic actions in building relationships and the necessity of resetting expectations with boards and stakeholders.

Takeaways :

Most leadership failures stem from misreading culture.
Leaders who succeed immerse themselves in the organization.
It's crucial to listen and understand before acting.
Be quick to identify problems, but deliberate in action.
Building trust is more important than proving brilliance.
Small actions can have a significant impact on trust.
Negotiating wins before starting can build credibility.
Resetting expectations with stakeholders is essential.
Your behavior sets the tone for your leadership.
Start your leadership journey with intention and clarity.

Connect with Neill - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neillmarshall/
Connect with Kurt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-mosley-01893212/

If you enjoyed this episode:
• Like the video
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and personal growth
• Share it with someone who might need it

#TheRouteToSuccess #SaraOrellana

]]> In this conversation, Neil Marshall and Kurt Mosley discuss the critical first 90 days of leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding organizational culture, building trust, and making strategic decisions. They share real-world examples and actionable insights for leaders to navigate their initial period effectively, highlighting the balance between quick action and thoughtful decision-making. The discussion also covers the significance of small symbolic actions in building relationships and the necessity of resetting expectations with boards and stakeholders.

Takeaways :

Most leadership failures stem from misreading culture.
Leaders who succeed immerse themselves in the organization.
It's crucial to listen and understand before acting.
Be quick to identify problems, but deliberate in action.
Building trust is more important than proving brilliance.
Small actions can have a significant impact on trust.
Negotiating wins before starting can build credibility.
Resetting expectations with stakeholders is essential.
Your behavior sets the tone for your leadership.
Start your leadership journey with intention and clarity.

Connect with Neill - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neillmarshall/
Connect with Kurt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-mosley-01893212/

If you enjoyed this episode:
• Like the video
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and personal growth
• Share it with someone who might need it

#TheRouteToSuccess #SaraOrellana

]]> Thu, 11 Jun 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2332 In this conversation, Neil Marshall and Kurt Mosley discuss the critical first 90 days of leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding organizational culture, building trust, and making strategic decisions. They share real-world examples and actionable insights for leaders to navigate their initial period effectively, highlighting the balance between quick action and thoughtful decision-making. The discussion also covers the significance of small symbolic actions in building relationships and the necessity of resetting expectations with boards and stakeholders.

Takeaways :

Most leadership failures stem from misreading culture.
Leaders who succeed immerse themselves in the organization.
It's crucial to listen and understand before acting.
Be quick to identify problems, but deliberate in action.
Building trust is more important than proving brilliance.
Small actions can have a significant impact on trust.
Negotiating wins before starting can build credibility.
Resetting expectations with stakeholders is essential.
Your behavior sets the tone for your leadership.
Start your leadership journey with intention and clarity.

Connect with Neill - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neillmarshall/
Connect with Kurt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurt-mosley-01893212/

If you enjoyed this episode:
• Like the video
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and personal growth
• Share it with someone who might need it

#TheRouteToSuccess #SaraOrellana

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E41 How Pranic Healing Can Transform Your Life | Bianca Riemer | Part 2 42 42 S01E41 How Pranic Healing Can Transform Your Life | Bianca Riemer | Part 2 full 316bdbc7-4de0-4132-a44b-8544aba2d072 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0f95b9ed Discover the transformative power of Pranic Healing with Bianca Riemer in this insightful conversation about energy healing, stress management, emotional wellness, and personal growth. Bianca shares her inspiring journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a healer, helping people unlock resilience, balance, and inner peace through energy work.

Learn how Pranic Healing works, the science behind chakras and meridians, and why stress is often the hidden cause of physical and emotional illness. Bianca also shares powerful real-life healing stories, including her niece’s recovery journey from leukemia, and explains practical techniques anyone can use to improve their energy, mindset, and wellbeing.

Whether you're interested in alternative therapies, executive coaching, emotional healing, or holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how energy affects every aspect of life.

Topics Covered:

Pranic Healing explained
Energy healing and chakras
Stress management techniques
Emotional healing and resilience
Executive coaching through energy work
The science behind healing energy
Personal transformation stories
Alternative healing therapies
Practical healing techniques for daily life

Key Quotes:

“The body can heal itself.”
“95% of all illnesses are caused by stress.”
“Pranic healing is not a belief system, it’s a science.”
“Life is too short. What do I want?”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pranic Healing
01:29 Bianca's Journey from Finance to Healing
05:46 Dealing with Stress in High-Pressure Environments
09:30 Understanding Pranic Healing
12:45 The Science Behind Energy Healing
22:12 The Role of Chakras and Meridians
25:02 A Personal Story of Healing
30:37 Integrating Pranic Healing in Executive Coaching
33:00 Practical Techniques for Energy Work
40:15 Conclusion and Gratitude

#PranicHealing #EnergyHealing #StressManagement #Chakras #EmotionalHealing #PersonalGrowth #AlternativeTherapies #HealingTechniques #ExecutiveCoaching #Resilience #Wellness #MindBodyHealing #HolisticHealth

]]> Discover the transformative power of Pranic Healing with Bianca Riemer in this insightful conversation about energy healing, stress management, emotional wellness, and personal growth. Bianca shares her inspiring journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a healer, helping people unlock resilience, balance, and inner peace through energy work.

Learn how Pranic Healing works, the science behind chakras and meridians, and why stress is often the hidden cause of physical and emotional illness. Bianca also shares powerful real-life healing stories, including her niece’s recovery journey from leukemia, and explains practical techniques anyone can use to improve their energy, mindset, and wellbeing.

Whether you're interested in alternative therapies, executive coaching, emotional healing, or holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how energy affects every aspect of life.

Topics Covered:

Pranic Healing explained
Energy healing and chakras
Stress management techniques
Emotional healing and resilience
Executive coaching through energy work
The science behind healing energy
Personal transformation stories
Alternative healing therapies
Practical healing techniques for daily life

Key Quotes:

“The body can heal itself.”
“95% of all illnesses are caused by stress.”
“Pranic healing is not a belief system, it’s a science.”
“Life is too short. What do I want?”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pranic Healing
01:29 Bianca's Journey from Finance to Healing
05:46 Dealing with Stress in High-Pressure Environments
09:30 Understanding Pranic Healing
12:45 The Science Behind Energy Healing
22:12 The Role of Chakras and Meridians
25:02 A Personal Story of Healing
30:37 Integrating Pranic Healing in Executive Coaching
33:00 Practical Techniques for Energy Work
40:15 Conclusion and Gratitude

#PranicHealing #EnergyHealing #StressManagement #Chakras #EmotionalHealing #PersonalGrowth #AlternativeTherapies #HealingTechniques #ExecutiveCoaching #Resilience #Wellness #MindBodyHealing #HolisticHealth

]]> Thu, 04 Jun 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2656 Discover the transformative power of Pranic Healing with Bianca Riemer in this insightful conversation about energy healing, stress management, emotional wellness, and personal growth. Bianca shares her inspiring journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a healer, helping people unlock resilience, balance, and inner peace through energy work.

Learn how Pranic Healing works, the science behind chakras and meridians, and why stress is often the hidden cause of physical and emotional illness. Bianca also shares powerful real-life healing stories, including her niece’s recovery journey from leukemia, and explains practical techniques anyone can use to improve their energy, mindset, and wellbeing.

Whether you're interested in alternative therapies, executive coaching, emotional healing, or holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how energy affects every aspect of life.

Topics Covered:

Pranic Healing explained
Energy healing and chakras
Stress management techniques
Emotional healing and resilience
Executive coaching through energy work
The science behind healing energy
Personal transformation stories
Alternative healing therapies
Practical healing techniques for daily life

Key Quotes:

“The body can heal itself.”
“95% of all illnesses are caused by stress.”
“Pranic healing is not a belief system, it’s a science.”
“Life is too short. What do I want?”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pranic Healing
01:29 Bianca's Journey from Finance to Healing
05:46 Dealing with Stress in High-Pressure Environments
09:30 Understanding Pranic Healing
12:45 The Science Behind Energy Healing
22:12 The Role of Chakras and Meridians
25:02 A Personal Story of Healing
30:37 Integrating Pranic Healing in Executive Coaching
33:00 Practical Techniques for Energy Work
40:15 Conclusion and Gratitude

#PranicHealing #EnergyHealing #StressManagement #Chakras #EmotionalHealing #PersonalGrowth #AlternativeTherapies #HealingTechniques #ExecutiveCoaching #Resilience #Wellness #MindBodyHealing #HolisticHealth

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E40 How Pranic Healing Can Transform Your Life | Bianca Riemer | Part 1 41 41 S01E40 How Pranic Healing Can Transform Your Life | Bianca Riemer | Part 1 full 4a690b39-61bc-4acb-9fd8-9cfe4e0934e3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ff9dd7d0 Discover the transformative power of Pranic Healing with Bianca Riemer in this insightful conversation about energy healing, stress management, emotional wellness, and personal growth. Bianca shares her inspiring journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a healer, helping people unlock resilience, balance, and inner peace through energy work.

Learn how Pranic Healing works, the science behind chakras and meridians, and why stress is often the hidden cause of physical and emotional illness. Bianca also shares powerful real-life healing stories, including her niece’s recovery journey from leukemia, and explains practical techniques anyone can use to improve their energy, mindset, and wellbeing.

Whether you're interested in alternative therapies, executive coaching, emotional healing, or holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how energy affects every aspect of life.

Topics Covered:

Pranic Healing explained
Energy healing and chakras
Stress management techniques
Emotional healing and resilience
Executive coaching through energy work
The science behind healing energy
Personal transformation stories
Alternative healing therapies
Practical healing techniques for daily life

Key Quotes:

“The body can heal itself.”
“95% of all illnesses are caused by stress.”
“Pranic healing is not a belief system, it’s a science.”
“Life is too short. What do I want?”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pranic Healing
01:29 Bianca's Journey from Finance to Healing
05:46 Dealing with Stress in High-Pressure Environments
09:30 Understanding Pranic Healing
12:45 The Science Behind Energy Healing
22:12 The Role of Chakras and Meridians
25:02 A Personal Story of Healing
30:37 Integrating Pranic Healing in Executive Coaching
33:00 Practical Techniques for Energy Work
40:15 Conclusion and Gratitude

#PranicHealing #EnergyHealing #StressManagement #Chakras #EmotionalHealing #PersonalGrowth #AlternativeTherapies #HealingTechniques #ExecutiveCoaching #Resilience #Wellness #MindBodyHealing #HolisticHealth

]]> Discover the transformative power of Pranic Healing with Bianca Riemer in this insightful conversation about energy healing, stress management, emotional wellness, and personal growth. Bianca shares her inspiring journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a healer, helping people unlock resilience, balance, and inner peace through energy work.

Learn how Pranic Healing works, the science behind chakras and meridians, and why stress is often the hidden cause of physical and emotional illness. Bianca also shares powerful real-life healing stories, including her niece’s recovery journey from leukemia, and explains practical techniques anyone can use to improve their energy, mindset, and wellbeing.

Whether you're interested in alternative therapies, executive coaching, emotional healing, or holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how energy affects every aspect of life.

Topics Covered:

Pranic Healing explained
Energy healing and chakras
Stress management techniques
Emotional healing and resilience
Executive coaching through energy work
The science behind healing energy
Personal transformation stories
Alternative healing therapies
Practical healing techniques for daily life

Key Quotes:

“The body can heal itself.”
“95% of all illnesses are caused by stress.”
“Pranic healing is not a belief system, it’s a science.”
“Life is too short. What do I want?”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pranic Healing
01:29 Bianca's Journey from Finance to Healing
05:46 Dealing with Stress in High-Pressure Environments
09:30 Understanding Pranic Healing
12:45 The Science Behind Energy Healing
22:12 The Role of Chakras and Meridians
25:02 A Personal Story of Healing
30:37 Integrating Pranic Healing in Executive Coaching
33:00 Practical Techniques for Energy Work
40:15 Conclusion and Gratitude

#PranicHealing #EnergyHealing #StressManagement #Chakras #EmotionalHealing #PersonalGrowth #AlternativeTherapies #HealingTechniques #ExecutiveCoaching #Resilience #Wellness #MindBodyHealing #HolisticHealth

]]> Thu, 28 May 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2946 Discover the transformative power of Pranic Healing with Bianca Riemer in this insightful conversation about energy healing, stress management, emotional wellness, and personal growth. Bianca shares her inspiring journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a healer, helping people unlock resilience, balance, and inner peace through energy work.

Learn how Pranic Healing works, the science behind chakras and meridians, and why stress is often the hidden cause of physical and emotional illness. Bianca also shares powerful real-life healing stories, including her niece’s recovery journey from leukemia, and explains practical techniques anyone can use to improve their energy, mindset, and wellbeing.

Whether you're interested in alternative therapies, executive coaching, emotional healing, or holistic wellness, this episode offers valuable insights into how energy affects every aspect of life.

Topics Covered:

Pranic Healing explained
Energy healing and chakras
Stress management techniques
Emotional healing and resilience
Executive coaching through energy work
The science behind healing energy
Personal transformation stories
Alternative healing therapies
Practical healing techniques for daily life

Key Quotes:

“The body can heal itself.”
“95% of all illnesses are caused by stress.”
“Pranic healing is not a belief system, it’s a science.”
“Life is too short. What do I want?”

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Pranic Healing
01:29 Bianca's Journey from Finance to Healing
05:46 Dealing with Stress in High-Pressure Environments
09:30 Understanding Pranic Healing
12:45 The Science Behind Energy Healing
22:12 The Role of Chakras and Meridians
25:02 A Personal Story of Healing
30:37 Integrating Pranic Healing in Executive Coaching
33:00 Practical Techniques for Energy Work
40:15 Conclusion and Gratitude

#PranicHealing #EnergyHealing #StressManagement #Chakras #EmotionalHealing #PersonalGrowth #AlternativeTherapies #HealingTechniques #ExecutiveCoaching #Resilience #Wellness #MindBodyHealing #HolisticHealth

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E39 The Journey from Publishing to Purpose | Roger Devine 40 40 S01E39 The Journey from Publishing to Purpose | Roger Devine full efd93409-cbcb-47ce-b381-7b21a95ee2de https://share.transistor.fm/s/5086f63a In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara engages with Roger Devine, a business leader dedicated to supporting volunteer-driven organizations through innovative fundraising tools. Roger shares his journey from publishing to finding purpose in helping communities, emphasizing the importance of resilience, sustainability, and listening in leadership. The conversation explores how organizational culture, institutional memory, and community impact are interconnected, providing insights for leaders looking to create meaningful change.


Key Takeaways

Roger Devine emphasizes the importance of community impact in business.
Leadership can be practical and mission-driven, focusing on long-term goals.
Building a business around service can lead to sustainable success.
The ripple effect of small community solutions can lead to larger societal change.
Resilience is fostered by working alongside dedicated organizations.
Organizational culture starts at the top and must be lived daily.
Listening is a crucial skill for effective leadership and decision-making.
Preserving institutional memory is vital for volunteer-led organizations.
Software can help organizations retain knowledge and improve operations.
Leaders should commit to doing what they know is right for their teams.

Connect with Roger here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerdevine/

]]> In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara engages with Roger Devine, a business leader dedicated to supporting volunteer-driven organizations through innovative fundraising tools. Roger shares his journey from publishing to finding purpose in helping communities, emphasizing the importance of resilience, sustainability, and listening in leadership. The conversation explores how organizational culture, institutional memory, and community impact are interconnected, providing insights for leaders looking to create meaningful change.


Key Takeaways

Roger Devine emphasizes the importance of community impact in business.
Leadership can be practical and mission-driven, focusing on long-term goals.
Building a business around service can lead to sustainable success.
The ripple effect of small community solutions can lead to larger societal change.
Resilience is fostered by working alongside dedicated organizations.
Organizational culture starts at the top and must be lived daily.
Listening is a crucial skill for effective leadership and decision-making.
Preserving institutional memory is vital for volunteer-led organizations.
Software can help organizations retain knowledge and improve operations.
Leaders should commit to doing what they know is right for their teams.

Connect with Roger here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerdevine/

]]> Thu, 21 May 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2088 In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara engages with Roger Devine, a business leader dedicated to supporting volunteer-driven organizations through innovative fundraising tools. Roger shares his journey from publishing to finding purpose in helping communities, emphasizing the importance of resilience, sustainability, and listening in leadership. The conversation explores how organizational culture, institutional memory, and community impact are interconnected, providing insights for leaders looking to create meaningful change.


Key Takeaways

Roger Devine emphasizes the importance of community impact in business.
Leadership can be practical and mission-driven, focusing on long-term goals.
Building a business around service can lead to sustainable success.
The ripple effect of small community solutions can lead to larger societal change.
Resilience is fostered by working alongside dedicated organizations.
Organizational culture starts at the top and must be lived daily.
Listening is a crucial skill for effective leadership and decision-making.
Preserving institutional memory is vital for volunteer-led organizations.
Software can help organizations retain knowledge and improve operations.
Leaders should commit to doing what they know is right for their teams.

Connect with Roger here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerdevine/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E38 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments: A Key to Resilience | Patrice Brown 39 39 S01E38 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments: A Key to Resilience | Patrice Brown full 6bc62c30-0749-40bd-9186-80865a35d776 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8d438112 In this enlightening conversation, Patrice Brown shares her unique journey into leadership, emphasizing the importance of resilience, joy, and self-care. She discusses how small moments of joy can help navigate stress and uncertainty, the role of faith in maintaining hope, and practical rituals for resetting the mind. The dialogue also explores the significance of building connections in leadership and how nature can inspire a sense of peace and responsibility. Ultimately, Patrice advocates for taking care of oneself as a leader to better support others.


Key Takeaways:

Hope is something you practice every day.
Joy is not a luxury; it is a tool.
Finding joy in small moments can change your perspective.
Faith can provide grounding during difficult times.
Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
Building connections with team members fosters joy.
Nature teaches us to slow down and appreciate life.
Rituals like tea and breath work can reset your mind.
Recognizing others' struggles enhances leadership effectiveness.
Taking care of yourself allows you to better influence others.

Connect via Patrice via https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricebrown/

]]> In this enlightening conversation, Patrice Brown shares her unique journey into leadership, emphasizing the importance of resilience, joy, and self-care. She discusses how small moments of joy can help navigate stress and uncertainty, the role of faith in maintaining hope, and practical rituals for resetting the mind. The dialogue also explores the significance of building connections in leadership and how nature can inspire a sense of peace and responsibility. Ultimately, Patrice advocates for taking care of oneself as a leader to better support others.


Key Takeaways:

Hope is something you practice every day.
Joy is not a luxury; it is a tool.
Finding joy in small moments can change your perspective.
Faith can provide grounding during difficult times.
Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
Building connections with team members fosters joy.
Nature teaches us to slow down and appreciate life.
Rituals like tea and breath work can reset your mind.
Recognizing others' struggles enhances leadership effectiveness.
Taking care of yourself allows you to better influence others.

Connect via Patrice via https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricebrown/

]]> Thu, 14 May 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2368 In this enlightening conversation, Patrice Brown shares her unique journey into leadership, emphasizing the importance of resilience, joy, and self-care. She discusses how small moments of joy can help navigate stress and uncertainty, the role of faith in maintaining hope, and practical rituals for resetting the mind. The dialogue also explores the significance of building connections in leadership and how nature can inspire a sense of peace and responsibility. Ultimately, Patrice advocates for taking care of oneself as a leader to better support others.


Key Takeaways:

Hope is something you practice every day.
Joy is not a luxury; it is a tool.
Finding joy in small moments can change your perspective.
Faith can provide grounding during difficult times.
Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
Building connections with team members fosters joy.
Nature teaches us to slow down and appreciate life.
Rituals like tea and breath work can reset your mind.
Recognizing others' struggles enhances leadership effectiveness.
Taking care of yourself allows you to better influence others.

Connect via Patrice via https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricebrown/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E37 Navigating Leadership with Resilience | Renee Hastings 38 38 S01E37 Navigating Leadership with Resilience | Renee Hastings full ee5190bb-3c7e-4e30-9a78-9cbfb63eb806 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a2049b17 In this conversation, Renee Hastings, president and CEO of Executive Help Now, shares her insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of operational clarity in business. With over 20 years of experience, she discusses the lessons learned from both good and bad leaders, the significance of hiring for values, and the challenges of delegation. The conversation emphasizes the role of faith and community in navigating difficult times and the power of sharing resources and support among peers.


Key Takeaways:

Renee's leadership journey is shaped by both good and bad experiences.
Bad leaders teach valuable lessons on what not to do.
Operational clarity is essential for reclaiming time and focus.
Delegation is often hindered by fear and perfectionism.
Hiring for values is more important than hiring for skills.
Building a supportive community is crucial for success.
Prayer and seeking wisdom guide decision-making during challenges.
Effective communication fosters trust and collaboration.
Sharing resources can lead to unexpected solutions.
Authenticity and vulnerability are key in leadership.

Connect with Renee via https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> In this conversation, Renee Hastings, president and CEO of Executive Help Now, shares her insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of operational clarity in business. With over 20 years of experience, she discusses the lessons learned from both good and bad leaders, the significance of hiring for values, and the challenges of delegation. The conversation emphasizes the role of faith and community in navigating difficult times and the power of sharing resources and support among peers.


Key Takeaways:

Renee's leadership journey is shaped by both good and bad experiences.
Bad leaders teach valuable lessons on what not to do.
Operational clarity is essential for reclaiming time and focus.
Delegation is often hindered by fear and perfectionism.
Hiring for values is more important than hiring for skills.
Building a supportive community is crucial for success.
Prayer and seeking wisdom guide decision-making during challenges.
Effective communication fosters trust and collaboration.
Sharing resources can lead to unexpected solutions.
Authenticity and vulnerability are key in leadership.

Connect with Renee via https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Thu, 07 May 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2396 In this conversation, Renee Hastings, president and CEO of Executive Help Now, shares her insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of operational clarity in business. With over 20 years of experience, she discusses the lessons learned from both good and bad leaders, the significance of hiring for values, and the challenges of delegation. The conversation emphasizes the role of faith and community in navigating difficult times and the power of sharing resources and support among peers.


Key Takeaways:

Renee's leadership journey is shaped by both good and bad experiences.
Bad leaders teach valuable lessons on what not to do.
Operational clarity is essential for reclaiming time and focus.
Delegation is often hindered by fear and perfectionism.
Hiring for values is more important than hiring for skills.
Building a supportive community is crucial for success.
Prayer and seeking wisdom guide decision-making during challenges.
Effective communication fosters trust and collaboration.
Sharing resources can lead to unexpected solutions.
Authenticity and vulnerability are key in leadership.

Connect with Renee via https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E36 Trauma Informed Leadership and Organizational Systems I Inga James I The Route To Success 37 37 S01E36 Trauma Informed Leadership and Organizational Systems I Inga James I The Route To Success full 7e4854f8-33a1-4d9d-ad2c-7adc4ebecb5d https://share.transistor.fm/s/f07914d6 What if leadership challenges inside your organization are not caused by people but by broken systems?

In this episode of The Route To Success, Sara Orellana speaks with organizational psychologist and nonprofit leader Inga James about how leaders can build healthier organizations by focusing on systems, culture, and trauma informed leadership.

Inga James explains why organizations should be seen as living systems rather than rigid structures. Drawing from her background in social work and executive leadership, she shares how systems inside an organization influence behavior, performance, and even conflict between teams.

Sara Orellana and Inga James explore practical ways leaders can recognize system strain, improve workplace culture, and create environments where employees feel heard, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

This conversation also dives into burnout, leadership boundaries, transparency in decision making, and the role of psychological safety in building strong teams.

If you are a nonprofit leader, executive, manager, or founder looking to strengthen your organization and support your team more effectively, this episode offers practical insights you can start applying right away.

Topics covered in this episode

• Why organizations function as living systems
• How leadership systems shape employee behavior and performance
• The difference between fixing people and fixing systems
• Trauma informed leadership in real workplace situations
• The connection between burnout, boundaries, and leadership
• Why transparency builds trust inside organizations
• How leaders can identify early signs of system strain

Guest
Inga James
Founder of Organizational Renewal Group and Organizational Psychologist specializing in leadership development, workplace systems, and trauma informed organizational practices.

Connect with Inga James on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/inga-l-james/

Learn more about Inga James
https://renewalgroupllc.com

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to the channel and share this episode with leaders and teams working to build healthier organizations.

]]> What if leadership challenges inside your organization are not caused by people but by broken systems?

In this episode of The Route To Success, Sara Orellana speaks with organizational psychologist and nonprofit leader Inga James about how leaders can build healthier organizations by focusing on systems, culture, and trauma informed leadership.

Inga James explains why organizations should be seen as living systems rather than rigid structures. Drawing from her background in social work and executive leadership, she shares how systems inside an organization influence behavior, performance, and even conflict between teams.

Sara Orellana and Inga James explore practical ways leaders can recognize system strain, improve workplace culture, and create environments where employees feel heard, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

This conversation also dives into burnout, leadership boundaries, transparency in decision making, and the role of psychological safety in building strong teams.

If you are a nonprofit leader, executive, manager, or founder looking to strengthen your organization and support your team more effectively, this episode offers practical insights you can start applying right away.

Topics covered in this episode

• Why organizations function as living systems
• How leadership systems shape employee behavior and performance
• The difference between fixing people and fixing systems
• Trauma informed leadership in real workplace situations
• The connection between burnout, boundaries, and leadership
• Why transparency builds trust inside organizations
• How leaders can identify early signs of system strain

Guest
Inga James
Founder of Organizational Renewal Group and Organizational Psychologist specializing in leadership development, workplace systems, and trauma informed organizational practices.

Connect with Inga James on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/inga-l-james/

Learn more about Inga James
https://renewalgroupllc.com

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to the channel and share this episode with leaders and teams working to build healthier organizations.

]]> Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2415 What if leadership challenges inside your organization are not caused by people but by broken systems?

In this episode of The Route To Success, Sara Orellana speaks with organizational psychologist and nonprofit leader Inga James about how leaders can build healthier organizations by focusing on systems, culture, and trauma informed leadership.

Inga James explains why organizations should be seen as living systems rather than rigid structures. Drawing from her background in social work and executive leadership, she shares how systems inside an organization influence behavior, performance, and even conflict between teams.

Sara Orellana and Inga James explore practical ways leaders can recognize system strain, improve workplace culture, and create environments where employees feel heard, supported, and empowered to do their best work.

This conversation also dives into burnout, leadership boundaries, transparency in decision making, and the role of psychological safety in building strong teams.

If you are a nonprofit leader, executive, manager, or founder looking to strengthen your organization and support your team more effectively, this episode offers practical insights you can start applying right away.

Topics covered in this episode

• Why organizations function as living systems
• How leadership systems shape employee behavior and performance
• The difference between fixing people and fixing systems
• Trauma informed leadership in real workplace situations
• The connection between burnout, boundaries, and leadership
• Why transparency builds trust inside organizations
• How leaders can identify early signs of system strain

Guest
Inga James
Founder of Organizational Renewal Group and Organizational Psychologist specializing in leadership development, workplace systems, and trauma informed organizational practices.

Connect with Inga James on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/inga-l-james/

Learn more about Inga James
https://renewalgroupllc.com

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to the channel and share this episode with leaders and teams working to build healthier organizations.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E35 Why Advocacy Is the Foundation of Real Resilience I Nikki T. Hamilton | Part 2 36 36 S01E35 Why Advocacy Is the Foundation of Real Resilience I Nikki T. Hamilton | Part 2 full b9fdd80f-a895-41bb-b4b5-fb2cc52c984d https://share.transistor.fm/s/466e2d7e In this conversation, Nikki Hamilton shares practical self-advocacy tools for victims and families, emphasizing the importance of knowing options, asking for clarity, and documenting conversations. She discusses building a nonprofit resource navigation network, highlighting the significance of partnerships and understanding community needs. The conversation also covers the selection of a high-caliber board, focusing on character and expertise, and concludes with strategies for sustainable growth and preventing burnout in nonprofit organizations. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges faced by leaders in nonprofit organizations, the importance of understanding the ongoing trauma experienced by victims, and the need for effective communication in advocacy. They emphasize the significance of acknowledging trauma, the power of grace and gratitude, and the necessity of being seen and heard in the healing process. The discussion also highlights the distinction between advocacy and opposition, offering practical phrases to foster understanding and collaboration.

Connect with Nikki T Hamilton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkithamilton/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> In this conversation, Nikki Hamilton shares practical self-advocacy tools for victims and families, emphasizing the importance of knowing options, asking for clarity, and documenting conversations. She discusses building a nonprofit resource navigation network, highlighting the significance of partnerships and understanding community needs. The conversation also covers the selection of a high-caliber board, focusing on character and expertise, and concludes with strategies for sustainable growth and preventing burnout in nonprofit organizations. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges faced by leaders in nonprofit organizations, the importance of understanding the ongoing trauma experienced by victims, and the need for effective communication in advocacy. They emphasize the significance of acknowledging trauma, the power of grace and gratitude, and the necessity of being seen and heard in the healing process. The discussion also highlights the distinction between advocacy and opposition, offering practical phrases to foster understanding and collaboration.

Connect with Nikki T Hamilton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkithamilton/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3282 In this conversation, Nikki Hamilton shares practical self-advocacy tools for victims and families, emphasizing the importance of knowing options, asking for clarity, and documenting conversations. She discusses building a nonprofit resource navigation network, highlighting the significance of partnerships and understanding community needs. The conversation also covers the selection of a high-caliber board, focusing on character and expertise, and concludes with strategies for sustainable growth and preventing burnout in nonprofit organizations. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the challenges faced by leaders in nonprofit organizations, the importance of understanding the ongoing trauma experienced by victims, and the need for effective communication in advocacy. They emphasize the significance of acknowledging trauma, the power of grace and gratitude, and the necessity of being seen and heard in the healing process. The discussion also highlights the distinction between advocacy and opposition, offering practical phrases to foster understanding and collaboration.

Connect with Nikki T Hamilton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkithamilton/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E34 Why Advocacy Is the Foundation of Real Resilience I Nikki T. Hamilton | Part 1 35 35 S01E34 Why Advocacy Is the Foundation of Real Resilience I Nikki T. Hamilton | Part 1 full 869cc68e-6096-4ae7-a971-582d646b76ef https://share.transistor.fm/s/9d04569c Welcome to The Route To Success with Sara Orellana

In this powerful episode, Sara sits down with Nikki T Hamilton, longtime victim advocate, nonprofit leader, and founder of A Promise Kept Foundation. This conversation dives deep into advocacy, resilience, trauma recovery, and what it really takes to navigate systems that can feel overwhelming and cold.

Nikki explains why advocacy is not a personality trait but a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened over time. She shares practical tools for building that skill in everyday life, especially during emotional situations when it feels hardest to use your voice.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• What advocacy actually means in clear, practical terms
• Why advocacy is the driver behind true resilience
• How to separate emotions from facts during high stress situations
• Why victims often feel supported in crisis but alone in the long journey
• The gaps in the justice system when it comes to long term support
• How to teach children advocacy without labeling them as difficult
• Simple language shifts that reduce conflict and increase understanding
• The power of tone, body language, and neutral communication
• Why asking “Can you explain why?” changes everything

Nikki also shares the decades long journey behind Justice for Angel Ormston and what it has required from her year after year. From parole hearings to public opposition, she speaks honestly about re trauma, persistence, and protecting families while navigating the criminal justice system.

This episode is especially valuable for:

• Victims of violent crime
• Families navigating custody or parole hearings
• Parents raising emotionally intelligent children
• Nonprofit leaders balancing advocacy and compliance
• Anyone who wants to strengthen communication and self advocacy skills

If you have ever struggled to use your voice in a difficult moment, this conversation will give you clarity, language, and courage.

Connect with Nikki T Hamilton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkithamilton/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Welcome to The Route To Success with Sara Orellana

In this powerful episode, Sara sits down with Nikki T Hamilton, longtime victim advocate, nonprofit leader, and founder of A Promise Kept Foundation. This conversation dives deep into advocacy, resilience, trauma recovery, and what it really takes to navigate systems that can feel overwhelming and cold.

Nikki explains why advocacy is not a personality trait but a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened over time. She shares practical tools for building that skill in everyday life, especially during emotional situations when it feels hardest to use your voice.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• What advocacy actually means in clear, practical terms
• Why advocacy is the driver behind true resilience
• How to separate emotions from facts during high stress situations
• Why victims often feel supported in crisis but alone in the long journey
• The gaps in the justice system when it comes to long term support
• How to teach children advocacy without labeling them as difficult
• Simple language shifts that reduce conflict and increase understanding
• The power of tone, body language, and neutral communication
• Why asking “Can you explain why?” changes everything

Nikki also shares the decades long journey behind Justice for Angel Ormston and what it has required from her year after year. From parole hearings to public opposition, she speaks honestly about re trauma, persistence, and protecting families while navigating the criminal justice system.

This episode is especially valuable for:

• Victims of violent crime
• Families navigating custody or parole hearings
• Parents raising emotionally intelligent children
• Nonprofit leaders balancing advocacy and compliance
• Anyone who wants to strengthen communication and self advocacy skills

If you have ever struggled to use your voice in a difficult moment, this conversation will give you clarity, language, and courage.

Connect with Nikki T Hamilton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkithamilton/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Thu, 16 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2988 Welcome to The Route To Success with Sara Orellana

In this powerful episode, Sara sits down with Nikki T Hamilton, longtime victim advocate, nonprofit leader, and founder of A Promise Kept Foundation. This conversation dives deep into advocacy, resilience, trauma recovery, and what it really takes to navigate systems that can feel overwhelming and cold.

Nikki explains why advocacy is not a personality trait but a skill that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened over time. She shares practical tools for building that skill in everyday life, especially during emotional situations when it feels hardest to use your voice.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• What advocacy actually means in clear, practical terms
• Why advocacy is the driver behind true resilience
• How to separate emotions from facts during high stress situations
• Why victims often feel supported in crisis but alone in the long journey
• The gaps in the justice system when it comes to long term support
• How to teach children advocacy without labeling them as difficult
• Simple language shifts that reduce conflict and increase understanding
• The power of tone, body language, and neutral communication
• Why asking “Can you explain why?” changes everything

Nikki also shares the decades long journey behind Justice for Angel Ormston and what it has required from her year after year. From parole hearings to public opposition, she speaks honestly about re trauma, persistence, and protecting families while navigating the criminal justice system.

This episode is especially valuable for:

• Victims of violent crime
• Families navigating custody or parole hearings
• Parents raising emotionally intelligent children
• Nonprofit leaders balancing advocacy and compliance
• Anyone who wants to strengthen communication and self advocacy skills

If you have ever struggled to use your voice in a difficult moment, this conversation will give you clarity, language, and courage.

Connect with Nikki T Hamilton on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkithamilton/

Subscribe to The Route To Success for more conversations on leadership, resilience, nonprofit impact, personal growth, and real world advocacy.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E33 Changing Foster Care Outcomes I Kadie Black 34 34 S01E33 Changing Foster Care Outcomes I Kadie Black full 73b71c7e-abba-49be-afcb-af69f346f2c9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dff97497 In this powerful episode of The Route to Success, we sit down with Kadie Black, President and CEO of Voices for Children Foundation, also known as Be A Voice in Miami, Florida. Kadie shares how her organization is transforming the lives of children in foster care by helping them shift from survival mode to a mindset of hope, resilience, and possibility.

Voices for Children partners with the Guardian ad Litem Program to advocate for youth navigating the foster care system. From providing basic necessities like clothing and hygiene products to funding college tours, therapeutic wilderness trips, mission trips to the Dominican Republic, and independent living support, their work fills the critical gaps that often determine a child’s future.

In this conversation, you will learn:

• How experiential learning and travel help youth build confidence and resilience
• The impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences and how positive experiences can change life trajectories
• Why supporting relatives and kinship caregivers prevents children from entering group homes
• The real challenges young adults face when aging out of foster care
• Practical ways you can get involved through CASA, Guardian ad Litem programs, or local foster care nonprofits

Kadie also shares moving real life stories of families who were stabilized with small but strategic support, preventing siblings from being separated and keeping children out of high risk placements. The episode highlights how early intervention, compassion, and community involvement can reduce homelessness, trafficking vulnerability, and incarceration among former foster youth.

If you care about foster care reform, youth advocacy, trauma informed leadership, nonprofit impact, or building resilience in at risk youth, this episode will inspire you to take action.

Learn more or get involved at beavoice.org

Follow Kadie Black on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kadieblack/

Subscribe to The Route to Success for more conversations with leaders creating meaningful change in their communities.

]]> In this powerful episode of The Route to Success, we sit down with Kadie Black, President and CEO of Voices for Children Foundation, also known as Be A Voice in Miami, Florida. Kadie shares how her organization is transforming the lives of children in foster care by helping them shift from survival mode to a mindset of hope, resilience, and possibility.

Voices for Children partners with the Guardian ad Litem Program to advocate for youth navigating the foster care system. From providing basic necessities like clothing and hygiene products to funding college tours, therapeutic wilderness trips, mission trips to the Dominican Republic, and independent living support, their work fills the critical gaps that often determine a child’s future.

In this conversation, you will learn:

• How experiential learning and travel help youth build confidence and resilience
• The impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences and how positive experiences can change life trajectories
• Why supporting relatives and kinship caregivers prevents children from entering group homes
• The real challenges young adults face when aging out of foster care
• Practical ways you can get involved through CASA, Guardian ad Litem programs, or local foster care nonprofits

Kadie also shares moving real life stories of families who were stabilized with small but strategic support, preventing siblings from being separated and keeping children out of high risk placements. The episode highlights how early intervention, compassion, and community involvement can reduce homelessness, trafficking vulnerability, and incarceration among former foster youth.

If you care about foster care reform, youth advocacy, trauma informed leadership, nonprofit impact, or building resilience in at risk youth, this episode will inspire you to take action.

Learn more or get involved at beavoice.org

Follow Kadie Black on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kadieblack/

Subscribe to The Route to Success for more conversations with leaders creating meaningful change in their communities.

]]> Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2550 In this powerful episode of The Route to Success, we sit down with Kadie Black, President and CEO of Voices for Children Foundation, also known as Be A Voice in Miami, Florida. Kadie shares how her organization is transforming the lives of children in foster care by helping them shift from survival mode to a mindset of hope, resilience, and possibility.

Voices for Children partners with the Guardian ad Litem Program to advocate for youth navigating the foster care system. From providing basic necessities like clothing and hygiene products to funding college tours, therapeutic wilderness trips, mission trips to the Dominican Republic, and independent living support, their work fills the critical gaps that often determine a child’s future.

In this conversation, you will learn:

• How experiential learning and travel help youth build confidence and resilience
• The impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences and how positive experiences can change life trajectories
• Why supporting relatives and kinship caregivers prevents children from entering group homes
• The real challenges young adults face when aging out of foster care
• Practical ways you can get involved through CASA, Guardian ad Litem programs, or local foster care nonprofits

Kadie also shares moving real life stories of families who were stabilized with small but strategic support, preventing siblings from being separated and keeping children out of high risk placements. The episode highlights how early intervention, compassion, and community involvement can reduce homelessness, trafficking vulnerability, and incarceration among former foster youth.

If you care about foster care reform, youth advocacy, trauma informed leadership, nonprofit impact, or building resilience in at risk youth, this episode will inspire you to take action.

Learn more or get involved at beavoice.org

Follow Kadie Black on LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/kadieblack/

Subscribe to The Route to Success for more conversations with leaders creating meaningful change in their communities.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E32 Rising Through Fear: Leadership, Faith, and Service I Austin Moore 33 33 S01E32 Rising Through Fear: Leadership, Faith, and Service I Austin Moore full 9e6a6614-1a13-4357-9241-89efc7f2f9ff https://share.transistor.fm/s/e907b12e Welcome to The Route to Success with Sara Orellana.

In this powerful episode, Sara sits down with retired Air Force Colonel, pilot, nonprofit leader, and private equity founder Austin Moore for a real conversation about faith, fear, service, and leadership under pressure.

Austin shares how growing up in humble circumstances shaped his mindset and why he considers early adversity a gift rather than a limitation. From wrestling under Hall of Fame coach Russ Weiner to building a 26 year military career and retiring as a colonel in the United States Air Force, his journey is rooted in discipline, belief, and personal responsibility.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why having no backup plan can force you to make Plan A work
• How to accept feedback without letting it break your confidence
• The difference between criticism from supporters and noise from detractors
• Practical tools for managing fear when it feels overwhelming
• How focusing on positive outcomes rewires your response to anxiety
• Why service should start now instead of someday
• How to grow an organization without losing mission clarity
• The leadership lessons that transferred from military service to nonprofit CEO to private equity
• How prayer, meditation, and time outdoors create grounded leadership

Austin also reflects on his time leading the Special Operators Transition Foundation, where he helped grow the organization by more than 300 percent while staying focused on serving special operations veterans transitioning into meaningful careers. He explains why growth should follow mission, not ego, and how strong leadership requires constant alignment with purpose.

This conversation explores imposter syndrome, self doubt, resilience, and what it really means to move forward when fear is loud. Austin shares a powerful story from pilot training about sitting alone in a jet before his first solo flight and choosing to shift from what if I fail to what if I succeed.

If you care about leadership development, military transition, nonprofit growth, private equity leadership, faith driven decision making, or building resilience under pressure, this episode delivers practical insight and honest reflection.

Connect with Austin Moore on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinamoore/

Subscribe to The Route to Success for more conversations on leadership, hope, resilience, service, and real world growth.

]]> Welcome to The Route to Success with Sara Orellana.

In this powerful episode, Sara sits down with retired Air Force Colonel, pilot, nonprofit leader, and private equity founder Austin Moore for a real conversation about faith, fear, service, and leadership under pressure.

Austin shares how growing up in humble circumstances shaped his mindset and why he considers early adversity a gift rather than a limitation. From wrestling under Hall of Fame coach Russ Weiner to building a 26 year military career and retiring as a colonel in the United States Air Force, his journey is rooted in discipline, belief, and personal responsibility.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why having no backup plan can force you to make Plan A work
• How to accept feedback without letting it break your confidence
• The difference between criticism from supporters and noise from detractors
• Practical tools for managing fear when it feels overwhelming
• How focusing on positive outcomes rewires your response to anxiety
• Why service should start now instead of someday
• How to grow an organization without losing mission clarity
• The leadership lessons that transferred from military service to nonprofit CEO to private equity
• How prayer, meditation, and time outdoors create grounded leadership

Austin also reflects on his time leading the Special Operators Transition Foundation, where he helped grow the organization by more than 300 percent while staying focused on serving special operations veterans transitioning into meaningful careers. He explains why growth should follow mission, not ego, and how strong leadership requires constant alignment with purpose.

This conversation explores imposter syndrome, self doubt, resilience, and what it really means to move forward when fear is loud. Austin shares a powerful story from pilot training about sitting alone in a jet before his first solo flight and choosing to shift from what if I fail to what if I succeed.

If you care about leadership development, military transition, nonprofit growth, private equity leadership, faith driven decision making, or building resilience under pressure, this episode delivers practical insight and honest reflection.

Connect with Austin Moore on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinamoore/

Subscribe to The Route to Success for more conversations on leadership, hope, resilience, service, and real world growth.

]]> Thu, 02 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2863 Welcome to The Route to Success with Sara Orellana.

In this powerful episode, Sara sits down with retired Air Force Colonel, pilot, nonprofit leader, and private equity founder Austin Moore for a real conversation about faith, fear, service, and leadership under pressure.

Austin shares how growing up in humble circumstances shaped his mindset and why he considers early adversity a gift rather than a limitation. From wrestling under Hall of Fame coach Russ Weiner to building a 26 year military career and retiring as a colonel in the United States Air Force, his journey is rooted in discipline, belief, and personal responsibility.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why having no backup plan can force you to make Plan A work
• How to accept feedback without letting it break your confidence
• The difference between criticism from supporters and noise from detractors
• Practical tools for managing fear when it feels overwhelming
• How focusing on positive outcomes rewires your response to anxiety
• Why service should start now instead of someday
• How to grow an organization without losing mission clarity
• The leadership lessons that transferred from military service to nonprofit CEO to private equity
• How prayer, meditation, and time outdoors create grounded leadership

Austin also reflects on his time leading the Special Operators Transition Foundation, where he helped grow the organization by more than 300 percent while staying focused on serving special operations veterans transitioning into meaningful careers. He explains why growth should follow mission, not ego, and how strong leadership requires constant alignment with purpose.

This conversation explores imposter syndrome, self doubt, resilience, and what it really means to move forward when fear is loud. Austin shares a powerful story from pilot training about sitting alone in a jet before his first solo flight and choosing to shift from what if I fail to what if I succeed.

If you care about leadership development, military transition, nonprofit growth, private equity leadership, faith driven decision making, or building resilience under pressure, this episode delivers practical insight and honest reflection.

Connect with Austin Moore on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinamoore/

Subscribe to The Route to Success for more conversations on leadership, hope, resilience, service, and real world growth.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E31 Nonprofit Leadership, Team Building and Career Lessons I Chantel Scherer 32 32 S01E31 Nonprofit Leadership, Team Building and Career Lessons I Chantel Scherer full f1234666-7e69-4456-a407-ceb84b83f7f7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b04c2392 Leadership rarely follows a straight path. In this episode of The Route To Success, Sara Orellana sits down with Chantel Scherer, Executive Director of the Nassau Humane Society, to talk about resilience, leadership, and the unexpected opportunities that shape a career.

Chantel Scherer shares her remarkable journey from professional golf and international business in London to leading a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare. With decades of experience across communications, government work during COVID, and nonprofit leadership, she offers powerful insights on building teams, running mission driven organizations with business discipline, and staying grounded while leading others.

Sara Orellana and Chantel Scherer explore what collaborative leadership really looks like, why nonprofits must operate with strong business strategies, and how leaders can grow through challenges, failure, and constant learning. The conversation also dives into burnout, ego in leadership, and the importance of building support systems like executive coaches and peer networks.

This episode of The Route To Success is a thoughtful discussion for anyone interested in leadership, nonprofit management, personal growth, and purpose driven work.

What you will learn in this episode

• Why leadership paths are rarely linear
• The power of collaborative leadership and building strong teams
• How nonprofits can run sustainably like businesses
• Managing burnout and staying grounded as a leader
• Why failure and risk taking are essential for growth
• The role of communication, trust, and adaptability in leadership

If you are passionate about leadership, nonprofit impact, career growth, or building meaningful work, this conversation with Chantel Scherer offers valuable lessons and inspiration.

About the guest
Chantel Scherer is the Executive Director of the Nassau Humane Society. With a global career spanning professional sports, international business, government communications, and nonprofit leadership, she brings a unique perspective on mission driven leadership and organizational growth.

Follow Chantel Scherer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantelscherer/

About the host
Sara Orellana is the host of The Route To Success podcast, where she shares real conversations with leaders about resilience, purpose, and the journeys that shape impactful careers.

Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and success stories from inspiring professionals around the world.

#TheRouteToSuccess #LeadershipPodcast #NonprofitLeadership #ChantelScherer #SaraOrellana #CareerGrowth #LeadershipJourney #NonprofitManagement #AnimalWelfare #PersonalGrowth

]]> Leadership rarely follows a straight path. In this episode of The Route To Success, Sara Orellana sits down with Chantel Scherer, Executive Director of the Nassau Humane Society, to talk about resilience, leadership, and the unexpected opportunities that shape a career.

Chantel Scherer shares her remarkable journey from professional golf and international business in London to leading a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare. With decades of experience across communications, government work during COVID, and nonprofit leadership, she offers powerful insights on building teams, running mission driven organizations with business discipline, and staying grounded while leading others.

Sara Orellana and Chantel Scherer explore what collaborative leadership really looks like, why nonprofits must operate with strong business strategies, and how leaders can grow through challenges, failure, and constant learning. The conversation also dives into burnout, ego in leadership, and the importance of building support systems like executive coaches and peer networks.

This episode of The Route To Success is a thoughtful discussion for anyone interested in leadership, nonprofit management, personal growth, and purpose driven work.

What you will learn in this episode

• Why leadership paths are rarely linear
• The power of collaborative leadership and building strong teams
• How nonprofits can run sustainably like businesses
• Managing burnout and staying grounded as a leader
• Why failure and risk taking are essential for growth
• The role of communication, trust, and adaptability in leadership

If you are passionate about leadership, nonprofit impact, career growth, or building meaningful work, this conversation with Chantel Scherer offers valuable lessons and inspiration.

About the guest
Chantel Scherer is the Executive Director of the Nassau Humane Society. With a global career spanning professional sports, international business, government communications, and nonprofit leadership, she brings a unique perspective on mission driven leadership and organizational growth.

Follow Chantel Scherer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantelscherer/

About the host
Sara Orellana is the host of The Route To Success podcast, where she shares real conversations with leaders about resilience, purpose, and the journeys that shape impactful careers.

Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and success stories from inspiring professionals around the world.

#TheRouteToSuccess #LeadershipPodcast #NonprofitLeadership #ChantelScherer #SaraOrellana #CareerGrowth #LeadershipJourney #NonprofitManagement #AnimalWelfare #PersonalGrowth

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2609 Leadership rarely follows a straight path. In this episode of The Route To Success, Sara Orellana sits down with Chantel Scherer, Executive Director of the Nassau Humane Society, to talk about resilience, leadership, and the unexpected opportunities that shape a career.

Chantel Scherer shares her remarkable journey from professional golf and international business in London to leading a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare. With decades of experience across communications, government work during COVID, and nonprofit leadership, she offers powerful insights on building teams, running mission driven organizations with business discipline, and staying grounded while leading others.

Sara Orellana and Chantel Scherer explore what collaborative leadership really looks like, why nonprofits must operate with strong business strategies, and how leaders can grow through challenges, failure, and constant learning. The conversation also dives into burnout, ego in leadership, and the importance of building support systems like executive coaches and peer networks.

This episode of The Route To Success is a thoughtful discussion for anyone interested in leadership, nonprofit management, personal growth, and purpose driven work.

What you will learn in this episode

• Why leadership paths are rarely linear
• The power of collaborative leadership and building strong teams
• How nonprofits can run sustainably like businesses
• Managing burnout and staying grounded as a leader
• Why failure and risk taking are essential for growth
• The role of communication, trust, and adaptability in leadership

If you are passionate about leadership, nonprofit impact, career growth, or building meaningful work, this conversation with Chantel Scherer offers valuable lessons and inspiration.

About the guest
Chantel Scherer is the Executive Director of the Nassau Humane Society. With a global career spanning professional sports, international business, government communications, and nonprofit leadership, she brings a unique perspective on mission driven leadership and organizational growth.

Follow Chantel Scherer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantelscherer/

About the host
Sara Orellana is the host of The Route To Success podcast, where she shares real conversations with leaders about resilience, purpose, and the journeys that shape impactful careers.

Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and success stories from inspiring professionals around the world.

#TheRouteToSuccess #LeadershipPodcast #NonprofitLeadership #ChantelScherer #SaraOrellana #CareerGrowth #LeadershipJourney #NonprofitManagement #AnimalWelfare #PersonalGrowth

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E30 Nonprofit Fundraising, Leadership and Board Strategy I Jake White 31 31 S01E30 Nonprofit Fundraising, Leadership and Board Strategy I Jake White full 499d0637-7429-41b3-9f63-1002ac864012 https://share.transistor.fm/s/ff001123 What does it really take to lead a nonprofit successfully and raise millions of dollars for a mission?

In this episode of The Route To Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with veteran nonprofit leader Jake White to talk about leadership, fundraising strategy, and the realities of running mission-driven organizations.

With more than 35 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Jake White has helped organizations raise over $150 million, including a single $5.3 million fundraising ask. In this conversation, he shares practical lessons on building donor relationships, creating strong systems, working with boards, and guiding teams through financial and organizational challenges.

Sara and Jake also discuss the leadership mindset needed to grow nonprofit organizations, how transparency strengthens teams, and why focusing on outcomes rather than activities can transform an organization’s impact.

If you are a nonprofit leader, executive director, board member, fundraiser, or someone interested in mission-driven leadership, this episode offers valuable insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode you’ll learn

• How successful nonprofits build strong fundraising systems
• What it takes to raise major gifts and build donor trust
• The role of board leadership and governance in nonprofit success
• Why transparency and communication matter for strong teams
• How leaders can stabilize organizations during difficult times
• Practical lessons from raising more than $150 million for nonprofits
• Leadership habits that improve culture and team performance

Guest
Jake White
Nonprofit leader with over 35 years of experience in fundraising, leadership, and organizational strategy. Throughout his career, he has helped mission-driven organizations raise more than $150 million and build sustainable development systems.

Connect via https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewhitemba/

Books mentioned in this episode

• Turn the Ship Around
• Leaders Eat Last
• Extreme Ownership
• It’s Your Ship
• The Fundraiser’s Guidebook by Jake White

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with leaders and professionals working in nonprofit organizations.

About the podcast

The Route To Success is a leadership podcast hosted by Sara Orellana, featuring real conversations with leaders about resilience, growth, leadership, and building organizations that make a meaningful impact.

#NonprofitLeadership #FundraisingStrategy #LeadershipPodcast #JakeWhite #SaraOrellana #NonprofitManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #TheRouteToSuccess

]]> What does it really take to lead a nonprofit successfully and raise millions of dollars for a mission?

In this episode of The Route To Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with veteran nonprofit leader Jake White to talk about leadership, fundraising strategy, and the realities of running mission-driven organizations.

With more than 35 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Jake White has helped organizations raise over $150 million, including a single $5.3 million fundraising ask. In this conversation, he shares practical lessons on building donor relationships, creating strong systems, working with boards, and guiding teams through financial and organizational challenges.

Sara and Jake also discuss the leadership mindset needed to grow nonprofit organizations, how transparency strengthens teams, and why focusing on outcomes rather than activities can transform an organization’s impact.

If you are a nonprofit leader, executive director, board member, fundraiser, or someone interested in mission-driven leadership, this episode offers valuable insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode you’ll learn

• How successful nonprofits build strong fundraising systems
• What it takes to raise major gifts and build donor trust
• The role of board leadership and governance in nonprofit success
• Why transparency and communication matter for strong teams
• How leaders can stabilize organizations during difficult times
• Practical lessons from raising more than $150 million for nonprofits
• Leadership habits that improve culture and team performance

Guest
Jake White
Nonprofit leader with over 35 years of experience in fundraising, leadership, and organizational strategy. Throughout his career, he has helped mission-driven organizations raise more than $150 million and build sustainable development systems.

Connect via https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewhitemba/

Books mentioned in this episode

• Turn the Ship Around
• Leaders Eat Last
• Extreme Ownership
• It’s Your Ship
• The Fundraiser’s Guidebook by Jake White

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with leaders and professionals working in nonprofit organizations.

About the podcast

The Route To Success is a leadership podcast hosted by Sara Orellana, featuring real conversations with leaders about resilience, growth, leadership, and building organizations that make a meaningful impact.

#NonprofitLeadership #FundraisingStrategy #LeadershipPodcast #JakeWhite #SaraOrellana #NonprofitManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #TheRouteToSuccess

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3243 What does it really take to lead a nonprofit successfully and raise millions of dollars for a mission?

In this episode of The Route To Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with veteran nonprofit leader Jake White to talk about leadership, fundraising strategy, and the realities of running mission-driven organizations.

With more than 35 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, Jake White has helped organizations raise over $150 million, including a single $5.3 million fundraising ask. In this conversation, he shares practical lessons on building donor relationships, creating strong systems, working with boards, and guiding teams through financial and organizational challenges.

Sara and Jake also discuss the leadership mindset needed to grow nonprofit organizations, how transparency strengthens teams, and why focusing on outcomes rather than activities can transform an organization’s impact.

If you are a nonprofit leader, executive director, board member, fundraiser, or someone interested in mission-driven leadership, this episode offers valuable insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode you’ll learn

• How successful nonprofits build strong fundraising systems
• What it takes to raise major gifts and build donor trust
• The role of board leadership and governance in nonprofit success
• Why transparency and communication matter for strong teams
• How leaders can stabilize organizations during difficult times
• Practical lessons from raising more than $150 million for nonprofits
• Leadership habits that improve culture and team performance

Guest
Jake White
Nonprofit leader with over 35 years of experience in fundraising, leadership, and organizational strategy. Throughout his career, he has helped mission-driven organizations raise more than $150 million and build sustainable development systems.

Connect via https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewhitemba/

Books mentioned in this episode

• Turn the Ship Around
• Leaders Eat Last
• Extreme Ownership
• It’s Your Ship
• The Fundraiser’s Guidebook by Jake White

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and share it with leaders and professionals working in nonprofit organizations.

About the podcast

The Route To Success is a leadership podcast hosted by Sara Orellana, featuring real conversations with leaders about resilience, growth, leadership, and building organizations that make a meaningful impact.

#NonprofitLeadership #FundraisingStrategy #LeadershipPodcast #JakeWhite #SaraOrellana #NonprofitManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #TheRouteToSuccess

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E29 Finding Hope in Uncertain Times | Joseph Zolobczuk | The Route to Success 30 30 S01E29 Finding Hope in Uncertain Times | Joseph Zolobczuk | The Route to Success full a45ef679-110b-4a71-9b98-538c6c4ea822 https://share.transistor.fm/s/600a04f5 Welcome to The Route to Success! 🎙️

In this powerful episode, Sara Orellana sits down in person with Joseph Zolobczuk, Executive Director of the YES Institute, for a thoughtful conversation about resilience, identity, connection, and hope in uncertain times.

For more than three decades, Joseph and the YES Institute have helped transform conversations around gender, orientation, and mental health—creating spaces where youth, families, and communities can build understanding and thrive together.

In this episode, Sara and Joseph explore:

• How small sparks of hope can help us through our darkest moments
• Why community and connection are essential for mental health
• Rethinking resilience as growth and evolution, not just “bouncing back”
• The power of listening in difficult conversations
• How families and communities can rebuild trust and understanding
• Practical ways to navigate burnout, uncertainty, and loneliness

Joseph also shares insights from his own journey at age 18, how one conversation changed his life, and why no one has to face their struggles alone.

This conversation is an honest, compassionate reminder that every person has value, purpose, and the potential to create meaningful connection—even in challenging times.

✨ If you’ve ever struggled with uncertainty, identity, burnout, or feeling disconnected, this episode is for you.

🔗 Connect with Joseph via https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-zolobczuk/

---

👍 If you enjoyed this episode:
• Like the video
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and personal growth
• Share it with someone who might need a little hope today

#TheRouteToSuccess #SaraOrellana #JosephZolobczuk #YESInstitute #MentalHealth #Resilience #Community #Leadership #Hope

]]> Welcome to The Route to Success! 🎙️

In this powerful episode, Sara Orellana sits down in person with Joseph Zolobczuk, Executive Director of the YES Institute, for a thoughtful conversation about resilience, identity, connection, and hope in uncertain times.

For more than three decades, Joseph and the YES Institute have helped transform conversations around gender, orientation, and mental health—creating spaces where youth, families, and communities can build understanding and thrive together.

In this episode, Sara and Joseph explore:

• How small sparks of hope can help us through our darkest moments
• Why community and connection are essential for mental health
• Rethinking resilience as growth and evolution, not just “bouncing back”
• The power of listening in difficult conversations
• How families and communities can rebuild trust and understanding
• Practical ways to navigate burnout, uncertainty, and loneliness

Joseph also shares insights from his own journey at age 18, how one conversation changed his life, and why no one has to face their struggles alone.

This conversation is an honest, compassionate reminder that every person has value, purpose, and the potential to create meaningful connection—even in challenging times.

✨ If you’ve ever struggled with uncertainty, identity, burnout, or feeling disconnected, this episode is for you.

🔗 Connect with Joseph via https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-zolobczuk/

---

👍 If you enjoyed this episode:
• Like the video
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and personal growth
• Share it with someone who might need a little hope today

#TheRouteToSuccess #SaraOrellana #JosephZolobczuk #YESInstitute #MentalHealth #Resilience #Community #Leadership #Hope

]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2472 Welcome to The Route to Success! 🎙️

In this powerful episode, Sara Orellana sits down in person with Joseph Zolobczuk, Executive Director of the YES Institute, for a thoughtful conversation about resilience, identity, connection, and hope in uncertain times.

For more than three decades, Joseph and the YES Institute have helped transform conversations around gender, orientation, and mental health—creating spaces where youth, families, and communities can build understanding and thrive together.

In this episode, Sara and Joseph explore:

• How small sparks of hope can help us through our darkest moments
• Why community and connection are essential for mental health
• Rethinking resilience as growth and evolution, not just “bouncing back”
• The power of listening in difficult conversations
• How families and communities can rebuild trust and understanding
• Practical ways to navigate burnout, uncertainty, and loneliness

Joseph also shares insights from his own journey at age 18, how one conversation changed his life, and why no one has to face their struggles alone.

This conversation is an honest, compassionate reminder that every person has value, purpose, and the potential to create meaningful connection—even in challenging times.

✨ If you’ve ever struggled with uncertainty, identity, burnout, or feeling disconnected, this episode is for you.

🔗 Connect with Joseph via https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-zolobczuk/

---

👍 If you enjoyed this episode:
• Like the video
• Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, resilience, and personal growth
• Share it with someone who might need a little hope today

#TheRouteToSuccess #SaraOrellana #JosephZolobczuk #YESInstitute #MentalHealth #Resilience #Community #Leadership #Hope

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E28 Built to Scale, Designed to Last With David Bakelman 29 29 S01E28 Built to Scale, Designed to Last With David Bakelman full df6bb2d6-41bf-4c6b-8ddf-e85223ffcdbe https://share.transistor.fm/s/1890c7ef Welcome to The Route to Success with Sarah Orellana.

In this episode, Sarah sits down with David Bakelman, a seasoned nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience leading regional, national, and global organizations. Known for stepping into complex environments and driving transformational growth, David shares practical leadership lessons that apply whether you are early in your career or running a multi million dollar organization.

This conversation dives into what it really takes to scale impact without losing culture, burn out, or clarity.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why infrastructure determines whether growth will succeed or collapse
• What strong nonprofit foundations actually look like behind the scenes
• How to hire high performing teams that align with mission and values
• Why hiring is the most important responsibility of any leader
• How to balance aggressive growth goals with long term stability
• The truth about career transitions and why moving every few years is not failure
• How to avoid complacency and stay challenge driven
• Practical habits that build resilience during layoffs, setbacks, and pressure
• How AI and technology are transforming nonprofit fundraising
• Why data analysis and predictive donor research are game changers
• The role of mentorship in building a sustainable leadership career
• Why leadership can feel lonely and how to protect your mental clarity

David also shares candid reflections on being let go, leaving roles during family caregiving seasons, and how resilience is built through adaptation rather than avoidance. His perspective reframes setbacks as strategic pivots instead of personal defeat.

If you work in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, executive management, or are building your career in mission driven organizations, this episode offers actionable insights you can apply immediately.

Topics covered include nonprofit growth strategy, board development, hiring best practices, fundraising innovation, AI in nonprofits, executive leadership, resilience mindset, work life balance, mentorship, and career development.

Connect with David Bakelman on LinkedIn - [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/)

Subscribe to The Route to Success for real conversations on hope, resilience, leadership, and building impact that lasts.

]]> Welcome to The Route to Success with Sarah Orellana.

In this episode, Sarah sits down with David Bakelman, a seasoned nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience leading regional, national, and global organizations. Known for stepping into complex environments and driving transformational growth, David shares practical leadership lessons that apply whether you are early in your career or running a multi million dollar organization.

This conversation dives into what it really takes to scale impact without losing culture, burn out, or clarity.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why infrastructure determines whether growth will succeed or collapse
• What strong nonprofit foundations actually look like behind the scenes
• How to hire high performing teams that align with mission and values
• Why hiring is the most important responsibility of any leader
• How to balance aggressive growth goals with long term stability
• The truth about career transitions and why moving every few years is not failure
• How to avoid complacency and stay challenge driven
• Practical habits that build resilience during layoffs, setbacks, and pressure
• How AI and technology are transforming nonprofit fundraising
• Why data analysis and predictive donor research are game changers
• The role of mentorship in building a sustainable leadership career
• Why leadership can feel lonely and how to protect your mental clarity

David also shares candid reflections on being let go, leaving roles during family caregiving seasons, and how resilience is built through adaptation rather than avoidance. His perspective reframes setbacks as strategic pivots instead of personal defeat.

If you work in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, executive management, or are building your career in mission driven organizations, this episode offers actionable insights you can apply immediately.

Topics covered include nonprofit growth strategy, board development, hiring best practices, fundraising innovation, AI in nonprofits, executive leadership, resilience mindset, work life balance, mentorship, and career development.

Connect with David Bakelman on LinkedIn - [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/)

Subscribe to The Route to Success for real conversations on hope, resilience, leadership, and building impact that lasts.

]]> Thu, 05 Mar 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3066 Welcome to The Route to Success with Sarah Orellana.

In this episode, Sarah sits down with David Bakelman, a seasoned nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience leading regional, national, and global organizations. Known for stepping into complex environments and driving transformational growth, David shares practical leadership lessons that apply whether you are early in your career or running a multi million dollar organization.

This conversation dives into what it really takes to scale impact without losing culture, burn out, or clarity.

Inside this episode, you will learn:

• Why infrastructure determines whether growth will succeed or collapse
• What strong nonprofit foundations actually look like behind the scenes
• How to hire high performing teams that align with mission and values
• Why hiring is the most important responsibility of any leader
• How to balance aggressive growth goals with long term stability
• The truth about career transitions and why moving every few years is not failure
• How to avoid complacency and stay challenge driven
• Practical habits that build resilience during layoffs, setbacks, and pressure
• How AI and technology are transforming nonprofit fundraising
• Why data analysis and predictive donor research are game changers
• The role of mentorship in building a sustainable leadership career
• Why leadership can feel lonely and how to protect your mental clarity

David also shares candid reflections on being let go, leaving roles during family caregiving seasons, and how resilience is built through adaptation rather than avoidance. His perspective reframes setbacks as strategic pivots instead of personal defeat.

If you work in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, executive management, or are building your career in mission driven organizations, this episode offers actionable insights you can apply immediately.

Topics covered include nonprofit growth strategy, board development, hiring best practices, fundraising innovation, AI in nonprofits, executive leadership, resilience mindset, work life balance, mentorship, and career development.

Connect with David Bakelman on LinkedIn - [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bakelman-94648610a/)

Subscribe to The Route to Success for real conversations on hope, resilience, leadership, and building impact that lasts.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E27 The Art of Leadership Through Storytelling With Sara Orellana 28 28 S01E27 The Art of Leadership Through Storytelling With Sara Orellana full 105e4442-bf14-451d-bab2-63c77ae9dd5b https://share.transistor.fm/s/092da884 In this special episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana shares her journey of leadership through storytelling, resilience, and the importance of hope as a skill. She discusses how her childhood experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and the power of narratives in connecting with others. The dialogue explores the dynamics of leadership, the costs associated with it, and the significance of creating safe spaces for team members. Sara emphasizes the importance of bridging storytelling with data to drive action and the necessity of supporting leaders through challenges. Ultimately, she defines success not by personal achievements but by the positive impact one can have on others.


What you'll learn:

Hope is a skill that can be developed.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in leadership.
Creating safe spaces fosters better leadership.
Leadership often involves making difficult decisions.
Success is defined by the impact on others, not personal gain.
Building resilience requires small, actionable steps.
Investing in others can lead to personal healing.
Data enhances the power of storytelling.
Leadership is about creating environments for solutions.
Courage in leadership often means facing fears. 

Connect with Sara via https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/

]]> In this special episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana shares her journey of leadership through storytelling, resilience, and the importance of hope as a skill. She discusses how her childhood experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and the power of narratives in connecting with others. The dialogue explores the dynamics of leadership, the costs associated with it, and the significance of creating safe spaces for team members. Sara emphasizes the importance of bridging storytelling with data to drive action and the necessity of supporting leaders through challenges. Ultimately, she defines success not by personal achievements but by the positive impact one can have on others.


What you'll learn:

Hope is a skill that can be developed.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in leadership.
Creating safe spaces fosters better leadership.
Leadership often involves making difficult decisions.
Success is defined by the impact on others, not personal gain.
Building resilience requires small, actionable steps.
Investing in others can lead to personal healing.
Data enhances the power of storytelling.
Leadership is about creating environments for solutions.
Courage in leadership often means facing fears. 

Connect with Sara via https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/

]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2660 In this special episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana shares her journey of leadership through storytelling, resilience, and the importance of hope as a skill. She discusses how her childhood experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and the power of narratives in connecting with others. The dialogue explores the dynamics of leadership, the costs associated with it, and the significance of creating safe spaces for team members. Sara emphasizes the importance of bridging storytelling with data to drive action and the necessity of supporting leaders through challenges. Ultimately, she defines success not by personal achievements but by the positive impact one can have on others.


What you'll learn:

Hope is a skill that can be developed.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in leadership.
Creating safe spaces fosters better leadership.
Leadership often involves making difficult decisions.
Success is defined by the impact on others, not personal gain.
Building resilience requires small, actionable steps.
Investing in others can lead to personal healing.
Data enhances the power of storytelling.
Leadership is about creating environments for solutions.
Courage in leadership often means facing fears. 

Connect with Sara via https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E26 Resilience in Leadership: A Journey of Growth With Toivo E Halvorsen 27 27 S01E26 Resilience in Leadership: A Journey of Growth With Toivo E Halvorsen full bd02e2be-42fb-4ce4-a8e1-3f29a3e13899 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c7979072 In this conversation, Toivo E Halvorsen shares his journey as a hospitality entrepreneur shaped by economic challenges and personal growth. He discusses the importance of resilience, the value of human connections in business, and the lessons learned during the pandemic. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of a mission-driven approach to entrepreneurship, the necessity of embracing challenges, and the role of physical movement in leadership.


In this episode, you'll learn :

Toivo's journey reflects the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship.
Human connections are crucial for business success, especially during crises.
The pandemic highlighted the value of relationships over mere financial transactions.
A mission-driven business can thrive even in challenging times.
Embracing challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Personal growth is a continuous journey for both individuals and organizations.
Physical movement and mindfulness practices are essential for effective leadership.
Understanding the cycle of life helps in navigating business challenges.
It's important to discern the voice that says you don't have time for self-care.
You are not defined by your thoughts; awareness is key to personal growth.

Connect with Tovio via https://www.linkedin.com/in/toivohalvorsen/

]]> In this conversation, Toivo E Halvorsen shares his journey as a hospitality entrepreneur shaped by economic challenges and personal growth. He discusses the importance of resilience, the value of human connections in business, and the lessons learned during the pandemic. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of a mission-driven approach to entrepreneurship, the necessity of embracing challenges, and the role of physical movement in leadership.


In this episode, you'll learn :

Toivo's journey reflects the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship.
Human connections are crucial for business success, especially during crises.
The pandemic highlighted the value of relationships over mere financial transactions.
A mission-driven business can thrive even in challenging times.
Embracing challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Personal growth is a continuous journey for both individuals and organizations.
Physical movement and mindfulness practices are essential for effective leadership.
Understanding the cycle of life helps in navigating business challenges.
It's important to discern the voice that says you don't have time for self-care.
You are not defined by your thoughts; awareness is key to personal growth.

Connect with Tovio via https://www.linkedin.com/in/toivohalvorsen/

]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2511 In this conversation, Toivo E Halvorsen shares his journey as a hospitality entrepreneur shaped by economic challenges and personal growth. He discusses the importance of resilience, the value of human connections in business, and the lessons learned during the pandemic. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of a mission-driven approach to entrepreneurship, the necessity of embracing challenges, and the role of physical movement in leadership.


In this episode, you'll learn :

Toivo's journey reflects the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship.
Human connections are crucial for business success, especially during crises.
The pandemic highlighted the value of relationships over mere financial transactions.
A mission-driven business can thrive even in challenging times.
Embracing challenges can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Personal growth is a continuous journey for both individuals and organizations.
Physical movement and mindfulness practices are essential for effective leadership.
Understanding the cycle of life helps in navigating business challenges.
It's important to discern the voice that says you don't have time for self-care.
You are not defined by your thoughts; awareness is key to personal growth.

Connect with Tovio via https://www.linkedin.com/in/toivohalvorsen/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E25 - Building Community Through Relationships and Trust With Matt Tanner 26 26 S01E25 - Building Community Through Relationships and Trust With Matt Tanner full fda1f262-8916-4aad-9ae6-ee7173dcc6ad https://share.transistor.fm/s/64165f03 In this conversation, Matt Tanner, Executive Director of United Against Poverty, shares his journey from Peace Corps volunteer to nonprofit leader. He discusses the importance of community relationships, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the effectiveness of wraparound services in addressing poverty. Matt emphasizes the need for dignity in service, the value of humor in emotionally demanding work, and the lessons learned from diverse experiences that shape his leadership style. He also offers advice for those looking to enter the nonprofit sector, highlighting the importance of due diligence and finding the right fit in volunteer opportunities.

What you'll learn :
Community service is about building relationships and trust.
The Peace Corps experience teaches humility and the importance of listening.
Navigating career transitions can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Wraparound services provide comprehensive support for those in need.
Dignity and respect are essential in service work.
Humor can lighten the emotional weight of challenging work.
Effective leadership involves empowering team members and valuing their strengths.
Continuous professional development is crucial for nonprofit staff.
Not all volunteer experiences are equal; find the right fit.
Community needs are evolving, and organizations must adapt to serve effectively.

Connect with Matt via https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtanner1/

]]> In this conversation, Matt Tanner, Executive Director of United Against Poverty, shares his journey from Peace Corps volunteer to nonprofit leader. He discusses the importance of community relationships, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the effectiveness of wraparound services in addressing poverty. Matt emphasizes the need for dignity in service, the value of humor in emotionally demanding work, and the lessons learned from diverse experiences that shape his leadership style. He also offers advice for those looking to enter the nonprofit sector, highlighting the importance of due diligence and finding the right fit in volunteer opportunities.

What you'll learn :
Community service is about building relationships and trust.
The Peace Corps experience teaches humility and the importance of listening.
Navigating career transitions can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Wraparound services provide comprehensive support for those in need.
Dignity and respect are essential in service work.
Humor can lighten the emotional weight of challenging work.
Effective leadership involves empowering team members and valuing their strengths.
Continuous professional development is crucial for nonprofit staff.
Not all volunteer experiences are equal; find the right fit.
Community needs are evolving, and organizations must adapt to serve effectively.

Connect with Matt via https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtanner1/

]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2413 In this conversation, Matt Tanner, Executive Director of United Against Poverty, shares his journey from Peace Corps volunteer to nonprofit leader. He discusses the importance of community relationships, the challenges faced during COVID-19, and the effectiveness of wraparound services in addressing poverty. Matt emphasizes the need for dignity in service, the value of humor in emotionally demanding work, and the lessons learned from diverse experiences that shape his leadership style. He also offers advice for those looking to enter the nonprofit sector, highlighting the importance of due diligence and finding the right fit in volunteer opportunities.

What you'll learn :
Community service is about building relationships and trust.
The Peace Corps experience teaches humility and the importance of listening.
Navigating career transitions can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Wraparound services provide comprehensive support for those in need.
Dignity and respect are essential in service work.
Humor can lighten the emotional weight of challenging work.
Effective leadership involves empowering team members and valuing their strengths.
Continuous professional development is crucial for nonprofit staff.
Not all volunteer experiences are equal; find the right fit.
Community needs are evolving, and organizations must adapt to serve effectively.

Connect with Matt via https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewtanner1/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E24 - Transforming Lives Through Homeownership with Mario Artecona 25 25 S01E24 - Transforming Lives Through Homeownership with Mario Artecona full 8f836dd0-6ff6-4cae-a030-4d49bffa49cc https://share.transistor.fm/s/ef15cb82 In this conversation, Mario Articona, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Miami, shares his journey from government and real estate to nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the importance of hope, resilience, and community service. He discusses the philosophy of providing a 'hand up' rather than a 'handout' and the emotional impact of homeownership on families. Mario highlights the significance of building a mission-driven culture within his organization, navigating challenges, and maintaining healthy board engagement. He concludes with a call to action for kindness and service in everyday life.

Connect with Mario here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-artecona-3347545/


Takeaways

Mario's journey reflects a commitment to meaningful work over lucrative opportunities.
Habitat for Humanity focuses on providing opportunities, not just housing.
The emotional impact of homeownership can transform families' lives.
Building a strong team culture is essential for nonprofit success.
Navigating challenges requires a supportive and solution-oriented approach.
Healthy board engagement is crucial for organizational effectiveness.
Leaders should prioritize kindness and service in their communities.
Maintaining a clear mission helps prevent burnout and mission drift.
Fostering a nurturing environment leads to low employee turnover.
Acts of kindness can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

]]> In this conversation, Mario Articona, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Miami, shares his journey from government and real estate to nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the importance of hope, resilience, and community service. He discusses the philosophy of providing a 'hand up' rather than a 'handout' and the emotional impact of homeownership on families. Mario highlights the significance of building a mission-driven culture within his organization, navigating challenges, and maintaining healthy board engagement. He concludes with a call to action for kindness and service in everyday life.

Connect with Mario here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-artecona-3347545/


Takeaways

Mario's journey reflects a commitment to meaningful work over lucrative opportunities.
Habitat for Humanity focuses on providing opportunities, not just housing.
The emotional impact of homeownership can transform families' lives.
Building a strong team culture is essential for nonprofit success.
Navigating challenges requires a supportive and solution-oriented approach.
Healthy board engagement is crucial for organizational effectiveness.
Leaders should prioritize kindness and service in their communities.
Maintaining a clear mission helps prevent burnout and mission drift.
Fostering a nurturing environment leads to low employee turnover.
Acts of kindness can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

]]> Thu, 05 Feb 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2867 In this conversation, Mario Articona, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Miami, shares his journey from government and real estate to nonprofit leadership, emphasizing the importance of hope, resilience, and community service. He discusses the philosophy of providing a 'hand up' rather than a 'handout' and the emotional impact of homeownership on families. Mario highlights the significance of building a mission-driven culture within his organization, navigating challenges, and maintaining healthy board engagement. He concludes with a call to action for kindness and service in everyday life.

Connect with Mario here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-artecona-3347545/


Takeaways

Mario's journey reflects a commitment to meaningful work over lucrative opportunities.
Habitat for Humanity focuses on providing opportunities, not just housing.
The emotional impact of homeownership can transform families' lives.
Building a strong team culture is essential for nonprofit success.
Navigating challenges requires a supportive and solution-oriented approach.
Healthy board engagement is crucial for organizational effectiveness.
Leaders should prioritize kindness and service in their communities.
Maintaining a clear mission helps prevent burnout and mission drift.
Fostering a nurturing environment leads to low employee turnover.
Acts of kindness can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E23 - Connecting Communities: The Importance of Rural Broadband with Colin Garner 24 24 S01E23 - Connecting Communities: The Importance of Rural Broadband with Colin Garner full 677d1398-4b11-4a6c-8e86-0d18017458af https://share.transistor.fm/s/8ff63201 What does it take to bring high-speed internet to communities often overlooked in America’s infrastructure plans?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Colin Garner, an expert in rural broadband and infrastructure, to explore the challenges and transformative opportunities of connecting underserved areas. Colin shares how his journey from mining engineering led him into the world of broadband construction, where geography, cost, and technical hurdles create unique obstacles—but also profound rewards.

Through stories from rural communities, Colin highlights how broadband transforms education, agriculture, and daily life. He emphasizes that resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving are critical to success, and he offers practical advice for aspiring engineers seeking fulfilling careers. Colin also reflects on the future of infrastructure in America, stressing the importance of digital equity and the human impact of connectivity.

In this episode, we cover:

Colin Garner’s path from mining engineering to rural broadband infrastructure

Unique challenges of building broadband networks in underserved areas

The transformative impact of connectivity on education, agriculture, and community life

Lessons in resilience and problem-solving through complex construction projects

Decisions in infrastructure design, like burying lines vs. using existing poles

Heartfelt community reactions to access and connectivity

The future of rural infrastructure and emerging technologies

Advice for aspiring engineers and the importance of finding passion in your work

Why digital equity is critical for thriving communities

The growing dependency on internet connectivity in modern life

Colin reminds listeners that hope alone isn’t enough—it must be paired with skill, persistence, and enjoyment of your work. His insights provide both inspiration and actionable advice for engineers, leaders, and anyone invested in building stronger, connected communities.

👉 Learn more about Colin Garner:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingarnerpeng/

]]> What does it take to bring high-speed internet to communities often overlooked in America’s infrastructure plans?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Colin Garner, an expert in rural broadband and infrastructure, to explore the challenges and transformative opportunities of connecting underserved areas. Colin shares how his journey from mining engineering led him into the world of broadband construction, where geography, cost, and technical hurdles create unique obstacles—but also profound rewards.

Through stories from rural communities, Colin highlights how broadband transforms education, agriculture, and daily life. He emphasizes that resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving are critical to success, and he offers practical advice for aspiring engineers seeking fulfilling careers. Colin also reflects on the future of infrastructure in America, stressing the importance of digital equity and the human impact of connectivity.

In this episode, we cover:

Colin Garner’s path from mining engineering to rural broadband infrastructure

Unique challenges of building broadband networks in underserved areas

The transformative impact of connectivity on education, agriculture, and community life

Lessons in resilience and problem-solving through complex construction projects

Decisions in infrastructure design, like burying lines vs. using existing poles

Heartfelt community reactions to access and connectivity

The future of rural infrastructure and emerging technologies

Advice for aspiring engineers and the importance of finding passion in your work

Why digital equity is critical for thriving communities

The growing dependency on internet connectivity in modern life

Colin reminds listeners that hope alone isn’t enough—it must be paired with skill, persistence, and enjoyment of your work. His insights provide both inspiration and actionable advice for engineers, leaders, and anyone invested in building stronger, connected communities.

👉 Learn more about Colin Garner:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingarnerpeng/

]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1489 What does it take to bring high-speed internet to communities often overlooked in America’s infrastructure plans?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Colin Garner, an expert in rural broadband and infrastructure, to explore the challenges and transformative opportunities of connecting underserved areas. Colin shares how his journey from mining engineering led him into the world of broadband construction, where geography, cost, and technical hurdles create unique obstacles—but also profound rewards.

Through stories from rural communities, Colin highlights how broadband transforms education, agriculture, and daily life. He emphasizes that resilience, curiosity, and problem-solving are critical to success, and he offers practical advice for aspiring engineers seeking fulfilling careers. Colin also reflects on the future of infrastructure in America, stressing the importance of digital equity and the human impact of connectivity.

In this episode, we cover:

Colin Garner’s path from mining engineering to rural broadband infrastructure

Unique challenges of building broadband networks in underserved areas

The transformative impact of connectivity on education, agriculture, and community life

Lessons in resilience and problem-solving through complex construction projects

Decisions in infrastructure design, like burying lines vs. using existing poles

Heartfelt community reactions to access and connectivity

The future of rural infrastructure and emerging technologies

Advice for aspiring engineers and the importance of finding passion in your work

Why digital equity is critical for thriving communities

The growing dependency on internet connectivity in modern life

Colin reminds listeners that hope alone isn’t enough—it must be paired with skill, persistence, and enjoyment of your work. His insights provide both inspiration and actionable advice for engineers, leaders, and anyone invested in building stronger, connected communities.

👉 Learn more about Colin Garner:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingarnerpeng/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E22 - Transforming Lives Through Justice and Advocacy With Michael J. Langley 23 23 S01E22 - Transforming Lives Through Justice and Advocacy With Michael J. Langley full 74735c2c-50df-48df-88bc-01d146dfe2da https://share.transistor.fm/s/6fce954f What does it take to turn personal adversity into lifelong advocacy and meaningful change?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Michael J. Langley, executive director of the Florida Justice Institute, to explore the power of resilience, grit, and community-focused leadership. Michael shares how growing up in a challenging environment shaped his lifelong commitment to supporting marginalized communities and closing opportunity gaps.

Through stories from his upbringing in rural Virginia, his civic engagement with the NAACP, and interactions with civil rights leaders like the late Muhammad Ali and Dr. King’s family, Michael illustrates the lessons that guide his work today. He explains how small, persistent actions compound into real change, and why showing up authentically is critical when leading organizations that serve vulnerable populations.

In this episode, we cover:

Michael’s early experiences with adversity and the growth mindset lessons they inspired

How personal resilience translates to leadership and advocacy

The importance of seeing and giving a voice to marginalized individuals

How the Florida Justice Institute empowers communities through access to justice, housing, and resources for people with disabilities

Practical ways listeners can support systemic change through time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony

Strategies for maintaining hope and self-care while working with vulnerable populations

How setbacks and challenges strengthen grit and reinforce leadership principles

The role of public-private partnerships, faith leaders, and community engagement in social change

Upcoming opportunities to support Florida Justice Institute, including Miami Gives Day

Michael emphasizes that no action is too small—from volunteering, sharing connections, or donating, every contribution fuels transformative progress. His insights are a blueprint for anyone looking to make a tangible impact while cultivating empathy, resilience, and leadership in their own communities.

👉 Learn more about Michael J. Langley and the Florida Justice Institute:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelangleyfl/

https://fji.law/

]]> What does it take to turn personal adversity into lifelong advocacy and meaningful change?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Michael J. Langley, executive director of the Florida Justice Institute, to explore the power of resilience, grit, and community-focused leadership. Michael shares how growing up in a challenging environment shaped his lifelong commitment to supporting marginalized communities and closing opportunity gaps.

Through stories from his upbringing in rural Virginia, his civic engagement with the NAACP, and interactions with civil rights leaders like the late Muhammad Ali and Dr. King’s family, Michael illustrates the lessons that guide his work today. He explains how small, persistent actions compound into real change, and why showing up authentically is critical when leading organizations that serve vulnerable populations.

In this episode, we cover:

Michael’s early experiences with adversity and the growth mindset lessons they inspired

How personal resilience translates to leadership and advocacy

The importance of seeing and giving a voice to marginalized individuals

How the Florida Justice Institute empowers communities through access to justice, housing, and resources for people with disabilities

Practical ways listeners can support systemic change through time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony

Strategies for maintaining hope and self-care while working with vulnerable populations

How setbacks and challenges strengthen grit and reinforce leadership principles

The role of public-private partnerships, faith leaders, and community engagement in social change

Upcoming opportunities to support Florida Justice Institute, including Miami Gives Day

Michael emphasizes that no action is too small—from volunteering, sharing connections, or donating, every contribution fuels transformative progress. His insights are a blueprint for anyone looking to make a tangible impact while cultivating empathy, resilience, and leadership in their own communities.

👉 Learn more about Michael J. Langley and the Florida Justice Institute:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelangleyfl/

https://fji.law/

]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1652 What does it take to turn personal adversity into lifelong advocacy and meaningful change?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Michael J. Langley, executive director of the Florida Justice Institute, to explore the power of resilience, grit, and community-focused leadership. Michael shares how growing up in a challenging environment shaped his lifelong commitment to supporting marginalized communities and closing opportunity gaps.

Through stories from his upbringing in rural Virginia, his civic engagement with the NAACP, and interactions with civil rights leaders like the late Muhammad Ali and Dr. King’s family, Michael illustrates the lessons that guide his work today. He explains how small, persistent actions compound into real change, and why showing up authentically is critical when leading organizations that serve vulnerable populations.

In this episode, we cover:

Michael’s early experiences with adversity and the growth mindset lessons they inspired

How personal resilience translates to leadership and advocacy

The importance of seeing and giving a voice to marginalized individuals

How the Florida Justice Institute empowers communities through access to justice, housing, and resources for people with disabilities

Practical ways listeners can support systemic change through time, talent, treasure, ties, and testimony

Strategies for maintaining hope and self-care while working with vulnerable populations

How setbacks and challenges strengthen grit and reinforce leadership principles

The role of public-private partnerships, faith leaders, and community engagement in social change

Upcoming opportunities to support Florida Justice Institute, including Miami Gives Day

Michael emphasizes that no action is too small—from volunteering, sharing connections, or donating, every contribution fuels transformative progress. His insights are a blueprint for anyone looking to make a tangible impact while cultivating empathy, resilience, and leadership in their own communities.

👉 Learn more about Michael J. Langley and the Florida Justice Institute:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelangleyfl/

https://fji.law/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E21 - From Personal Tragedy to Advocacy: Building Sebastian Strong with Oscar Ortiz 22 22 S01E21 - From Personal Tragedy to Advocacy: Building Sebastian Strong with Oscar Ortiz full 2ff51b79-a887-4c80-86fd-f76f2da3fda1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/09b4df09 How do you take a personal tragedy and turn it into a movement that supports families and accelerates pediatric cancer research?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Oscar Ortiz, co-founder of Sebastian Strong, to explore his journey from the devastating loss of his son to creating a nonprofit that fills critical gaps in childhood cancer care. Oscar shares the inspiration behind the foundation, the development of the innovative Navigator program, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit with a mission-driven, business-minded approach.

Oscar dives deep into how Sebastian Strong focuses on:

Accelerating pediatric cancer research

Providing comprehensive resources for families

Raising awareness of the critical gaps in treatment

Building sustainable, mission-driven nonprofit operations

Throughout the conversation, Oscar emphasizes the moral imperative of prioritizing children’s health over profit, the importance of authentic messaging, and the power of community support to create meaningful change.

In this episode, we cover:

The personal journey that led to founding Sebastian Strong

Gaps in pediatric cancer treatment and research funding

The moral obligation of healthcare systems for children

Lessons in building a nonprofit that functions like a business

How the Navigator program helps families navigate complex care

Strategies for raising awareness and increasing support

The importance of authentic, heartfelt communication

Practical ways listeners can get involved and make an impact

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in childhood cancer advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and making a real difference in the lives of families affected by pediatric cancer. Oscar’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of loss, purpose and action can create lasting change.

👉 Learn more about Oscar Ortiz and Sebastian Strong:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscarportiz/

https://sebastianstrong.org/

]]> How do you take a personal tragedy and turn it into a movement that supports families and accelerates pediatric cancer research?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Oscar Ortiz, co-founder of Sebastian Strong, to explore his journey from the devastating loss of his son to creating a nonprofit that fills critical gaps in childhood cancer care. Oscar shares the inspiration behind the foundation, the development of the innovative Navigator program, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit with a mission-driven, business-minded approach.

Oscar dives deep into how Sebastian Strong focuses on:

Accelerating pediatric cancer research

Providing comprehensive resources for families

Raising awareness of the critical gaps in treatment

Building sustainable, mission-driven nonprofit operations

Throughout the conversation, Oscar emphasizes the moral imperative of prioritizing children’s health over profit, the importance of authentic messaging, and the power of community support to create meaningful change.

In this episode, we cover:

The personal journey that led to founding Sebastian Strong

Gaps in pediatric cancer treatment and research funding

The moral obligation of healthcare systems for children

Lessons in building a nonprofit that functions like a business

How the Navigator program helps families navigate complex care

Strategies for raising awareness and increasing support

The importance of authentic, heartfelt communication

Practical ways listeners can get involved and make an impact

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in childhood cancer advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and making a real difference in the lives of families affected by pediatric cancer. Oscar’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of loss, purpose and action can create lasting change.

👉 Learn more about Oscar Ortiz and Sebastian Strong:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscarportiz/

https://sebastianstrong.org/

]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2073 How do you take a personal tragedy and turn it into a movement that supports families and accelerates pediatric cancer research?

In this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Oscar Ortiz, co-founder of Sebastian Strong, to explore his journey from the devastating loss of his son to creating a nonprofit that fills critical gaps in childhood cancer care. Oscar shares the inspiration behind the foundation, the development of the innovative Navigator program, and the lessons learned from running a nonprofit with a mission-driven, business-minded approach.

Oscar dives deep into how Sebastian Strong focuses on:

Accelerating pediatric cancer research

Providing comprehensive resources for families

Raising awareness of the critical gaps in treatment

Building sustainable, mission-driven nonprofit operations

Throughout the conversation, Oscar emphasizes the moral imperative of prioritizing children’s health over profit, the importance of authentic messaging, and the power of community support to create meaningful change.

In this episode, we cover:

The personal journey that led to founding Sebastian Strong

Gaps in pediatric cancer treatment and research funding

The moral obligation of healthcare systems for children

Lessons in building a nonprofit that functions like a business

How the Navigator program helps families navigate complex care

Strategies for raising awareness and increasing support

The importance of authentic, heartfelt communication

Practical ways listeners can get involved and make an impact

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in childhood cancer advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and making a real difference in the lives of families affected by pediatric cancer. Oscar’s story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of loss, purpose and action can create lasting change.

👉 Learn more about Oscar Ortiz and Sebastian Strong:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscarportiz/

https://sebastianstrong.org/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E20 - The Importance of Flexibility in Work Culture with Christine Barney of rbb Communications 21 21 S01E20 - The Importance of Flexibility in Work Culture with Christine Barney of rbb Communications full 0dec7930-516d-44e7-9e3b-f991a514f87d https://share.transistor.fm/s/0ad30ffa Discover how true workplace flexibility transforms productivity, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a judgment-free work culture - one where employees are empowered to work in the ways that serve them best. From remote work freedoms to respecting personal commitments, this conversation breaks down the difference between saying you offer flexibility and actually creating an environment where people can thrive.

You'll hear why clear boundaries matter, how trust fuels better results, and why honoring individual needs—from kids’ events to caring for pets—creates a happier, more productive team. Whether you're a leader shaping company culture or a professional seeking a healthier work environment, this episode offers valuable insight into building a workplace that genuinely supports people.

Topics Covered:
✔ Real flexibility vs. performative flexibility
✔ Empowerment and autonomy at work
✔ Creating a judgment-free, trust-driven environment
✔ Remote work and results-focused productivity
✔ Work-life balance without guilt
✔ The power of strong boundaries
✔ Improving client satisfaction through empowered teams

If you care about better workplaces, modern culture, and happier teams, this conversation is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Christine on : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarney/

]]> Discover how true workplace flexibility transforms productivity, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a judgment-free work culture - one where employees are empowered to work in the ways that serve them best. From remote work freedoms to respecting personal commitments, this conversation breaks down the difference between saying you offer flexibility and actually creating an environment where people can thrive.

You'll hear why clear boundaries matter, how trust fuels better results, and why honoring individual needs—from kids’ events to caring for pets—creates a happier, more productive team. Whether you're a leader shaping company culture or a professional seeking a healthier work environment, this episode offers valuable insight into building a workplace that genuinely supports people.

Topics Covered:
✔ Real flexibility vs. performative flexibility
✔ Empowerment and autonomy at work
✔ Creating a judgment-free, trust-driven environment
✔ Remote work and results-focused productivity
✔ Work-life balance without guilt
✔ The power of strong boundaries
✔ Improving client satisfaction through empowered teams

If you care about better workplaces, modern culture, and happier teams, this conversation is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Christine on : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarney/

]]> Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 942 Discover how true workplace flexibility transforms productivity, work-life balance, and overall job satisfaction. In this episode, we explore what it really means to build a judgment-free work culture - one where employees are empowered to work in the ways that serve them best. From remote work freedoms to respecting personal commitments, this conversation breaks down the difference between saying you offer flexibility and actually creating an environment where people can thrive.

You'll hear why clear boundaries matter, how trust fuels better results, and why honoring individual needs—from kids’ events to caring for pets—creates a happier, more productive team. Whether you're a leader shaping company culture or a professional seeking a healthier work environment, this episode offers valuable insight into building a workplace that genuinely supports people.

Topics Covered:
✔ Real flexibility vs. performative flexibility
✔ Empowerment and autonomy at work
✔ Creating a judgment-free, trust-driven environment
✔ Remote work and results-focused productivity
✔ Work-life balance without guilt
✔ The power of strong boundaries
✔ Improving client satisfaction through empowered teams

If you care about better workplaces, modern culture, and happier teams, this conversation is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Christine on : https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbarney/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E19 | How Local Culture Shapes Travel Experiences | Jose Santiago Vazquez-Rojel 20 20 S01E19 | How Local Culture Shapes Travel Experiences | Jose Santiago Vazquez-Rojel full 97ddf184-67c3-41b1-86ae-41cbc3e0752d https://share.transistor.fm/s/326f22aa On this episode of the Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jose Vazquez-Rojel to explore the world of authentic travel and community-centered tourism. Jose shares his insights on how travelers can move beyond cookie-cutter tourist experiences to truly engage with local cultures, history, and communities.

From understanding the commercialization of tourism to uncovering the secret to meaningful travel, this conversation highlights how authentic experiences can restore your soul, connect you with real communities, and even inspire scalable business models.

Whether you’re a traveler, entrepreneur, or curious about the future of tourism, this episode provides actionable insights on embracing authenticity in travel while respecting the cultures you visit.

Listen in and discover why “the authentic of each destination is how people live.”


🔑 Takeaways

The secret to really good travel is getting off the beaten track.

Experiencing real community is essential for soul restoration.

Tourism is increasingly commercialized and homogenized, losing authenticity.

Many tourist offerings are identical across cities, ignoring local uniqueness.

Authenticity in travel is tied to local history, culture, and daily life.

There’s a growing need for scalable business models in authentic travel.

Travel should reflect how people actually live in a destination.

Commercial tourism often overlooks the unique aspects of local culture.

Authentic experiences lead to more meaningful, transformative travel.

The future of tourism should focus on genuine community engagement.

]]> On this episode of the Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jose Vazquez-Rojel to explore the world of authentic travel and community-centered tourism. Jose shares his insights on how travelers can move beyond cookie-cutter tourist experiences to truly engage with local cultures, history, and communities.

From understanding the commercialization of tourism to uncovering the secret to meaningful travel, this conversation highlights how authentic experiences can restore your soul, connect you with real communities, and even inspire scalable business models.

Whether you’re a traveler, entrepreneur, or curious about the future of tourism, this episode provides actionable insights on embracing authenticity in travel while respecting the cultures you visit.

Listen in and discover why “the authentic of each destination is how people live.”


🔑 Takeaways

The secret to really good travel is getting off the beaten track.

Experiencing real community is essential for soul restoration.

Tourism is increasingly commercialized and homogenized, losing authenticity.

Many tourist offerings are identical across cities, ignoring local uniqueness.

Authenticity in travel is tied to local history, culture, and daily life.

There’s a growing need for scalable business models in authentic travel.

Travel should reflect how people actually live in a destination.

Commercial tourism often overlooks the unique aspects of local culture.

Authentic experiences lead to more meaningful, transformative travel.

The future of tourism should focus on genuine community engagement.

]]> Thu, 01 Jan 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1612 On this episode of the Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jose Vazquez-Rojel to explore the world of authentic travel and community-centered tourism. Jose shares his insights on how travelers can move beyond cookie-cutter tourist experiences to truly engage with local cultures, history, and communities.

From understanding the commercialization of tourism to uncovering the secret to meaningful travel, this conversation highlights how authentic experiences can restore your soul, connect you with real communities, and even inspire scalable business models.

Whether you’re a traveler, entrepreneur, or curious about the future of tourism, this episode provides actionable insights on embracing authenticity in travel while respecting the cultures you visit.

Listen in and discover why “the authentic of each destination is how people live.”


🔑 Takeaways

The secret to really good travel is getting off the beaten track.

Experiencing real community is essential for soul restoration.

Tourism is increasingly commercialized and homogenized, losing authenticity.

Many tourist offerings are identical across cities, ignoring local uniqueness.

Authenticity in travel is tied to local history, culture, and daily life.

There’s a growing need for scalable business models in authentic travel.

Travel should reflect how people actually live in a destination.

Commercial tourism often overlooks the unique aspects of local culture.

Authentic experiences lead to more meaningful, transformative travel.

The future of tourism should focus on genuine community engagement.

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E18 - Community Support as the Antidote for the Normalization of Violence with Tosha Connors 19 19 S01E18 - Community Support as the Antidote for the Normalization of Violence with Tosha Connors full 9179051a-e21d-443d-ac86-bc2e412a4053 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cd6573c5 On this essential episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana welcomes Tosha Connors for a critical conversation exploring how violence can become tragically normalized within households and communities. The discussion emphasizes the powerful role of social responsibility in driving change.

Tosha highlights that strengthening relationships and offering support are the only ways to enact real healing and systemic change. Discover the profound impact of simple acts of care, such as asking, "Are you okay?" The episode advocates for active community engagement, stressing that these small gestures are crucial for improving mental health and building resilience.

Learn why support must be tailored to individual needs, and how encouraging open dialogue helps break the cycle of violence. Tosha shares a powerful reminder that everyone has a role in fostering a healthier, more supportive community environment.

Key Takeaways:

The dangers of the normalization of violence and the need for awareness.

Why strengthening community support is essential for lasting change.

The impact of simple questions like, "Are you okay?" and "How can I support you?"

How active community engagement fosters better mental health and well-being.

The vital role of building supportive relationships to break cycles of harm.

If you are passionate about community building, social responsibility, and creating meaningful change, this episode provides actionable insights into offering effective support and fostering collective healing.

#violence #community #support #normalization #change #relationships #mentalhealth #socialresponsibility #healing #socialjustice #toshaconnors #saraorellana #routetosuccess

]]> On this essential episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana welcomes Tosha Connors for a critical conversation exploring how violence can become tragically normalized within households and communities. The discussion emphasizes the powerful role of social responsibility in driving change.

Tosha highlights that strengthening relationships and offering support are the only ways to enact real healing and systemic change. Discover the profound impact of simple acts of care, such as asking, "Are you okay?" The episode advocates for active community engagement, stressing that these small gestures are crucial for improving mental health and building resilience.

Learn why support must be tailored to individual needs, and how encouraging open dialogue helps break the cycle of violence. Tosha shares a powerful reminder that everyone has a role in fostering a healthier, more supportive community environment.

Key Takeaways:

The dangers of the normalization of violence and the need for awareness.

Why strengthening community support is essential for lasting change.

The impact of simple questions like, "Are you okay?" and "How can I support you?"

How active community engagement fosters better mental health and well-being.

The vital role of building supportive relationships to break cycles of harm.

If you are passionate about community building, social responsibility, and creating meaningful change, this episode provides actionable insights into offering effective support and fostering collective healing.

#violence #community #support #normalization #change #relationships #mentalhealth #socialresponsibility #healing #socialjustice #toshaconnors #saraorellana #routetosuccess

]]> Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2692 On this essential episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana welcomes Tosha Connors for a critical conversation exploring how violence can become tragically normalized within households and communities. The discussion emphasizes the powerful role of social responsibility in driving change.

Tosha highlights that strengthening relationships and offering support are the only ways to enact real healing and systemic change. Discover the profound impact of simple acts of care, such as asking, "Are you okay?" The episode advocates for active community engagement, stressing that these small gestures are crucial for improving mental health and building resilience.

Learn why support must be tailored to individual needs, and how encouraging open dialogue helps break the cycle of violence. Tosha shares a powerful reminder that everyone has a role in fostering a healthier, more supportive community environment.

Key Takeaways:

The dangers of the normalization of violence and the need for awareness.

Why strengthening community support is essential for lasting change.

The impact of simple questions like, "Are you okay?" and "How can I support you?"

How active community engagement fosters better mental health and well-being.

The vital role of building supportive relationships to break cycles of harm.

If you are passionate about community building, social responsibility, and creating meaningful change, this episode provides actionable insights into offering effective support and fostering collective healing.

#violence #community #support #normalization #change #relationships #mentalhealth #socialresponsibility #healing #socialjustice #toshaconnors #saraorellana #routetosuccess

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E18 - The Secret to High Employee Engagement with Ben Campbell of Hospitality America 18 18 S01E18 - The Secret to High Employee Engagement with Ben Campbell of Hospitality America full 0cbcb2e0-801b-4abb-bec3-dec63d3a1077 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dd678d15 Discover the powerful role of empathy and kindness in modern leadership from Ben Campbell, the young CEO of Hospitality America. Ben shares his remarkable journey from starting as a night auditor to overseeing 850 employees across eight states.

This episode dives deep into how defining company culture is the foundation for success in the hospitality industry. Ben explains the rituals that keep a consistent culture, the importance of active listening for employee engagement, and how to coach your team for kindness—because, as he says, "Kindness becomes a system."

Key Discussion Points:

(04:39) Why Empathy in Leadership is non-negotiable for team success.

(06:37) The strategies for Defining Company Culture that allows for scaling.

(10:21) How Listening to employees drives genuine Engagement.

(17:32) Practical advice on Coaching for Kindness within your team.

(22:45) Navigating major setbacks (like COVID-19) and the strategy for recovery.

(27:04) The leader’s role in building hope and supporting hotel staff.

Whether you're interested in business growth, overcoming professional setbacks, or improving team listening, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for any leader in any industry.

#hospitality #leadership #empathy #companyculture #employeengagement #kindness #growth #setbacks #CEO #hotelmanagement #businesstips #culture #listening #recovery

]]> Discover the powerful role of empathy and kindness in modern leadership from Ben Campbell, the young CEO of Hospitality America. Ben shares his remarkable journey from starting as a night auditor to overseeing 850 employees across eight states.

This episode dives deep into how defining company culture is the foundation for success in the hospitality industry. Ben explains the rituals that keep a consistent culture, the importance of active listening for employee engagement, and how to coach your team for kindness—because, as he says, "Kindness becomes a system."

Key Discussion Points:

(04:39) Why Empathy in Leadership is non-negotiable for team success.

(06:37) The strategies for Defining Company Culture that allows for scaling.

(10:21) How Listening to employees drives genuine Engagement.

(17:32) Practical advice on Coaching for Kindness within your team.

(22:45) Navigating major setbacks (like COVID-19) and the strategy for recovery.

(27:04) The leader’s role in building hope and supporting hotel staff.

Whether you're interested in business growth, overcoming professional setbacks, or improving team listening, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for any leader in any industry.

#hospitality #leadership #empathy #companyculture #employeengagement #kindness #growth #setbacks #CEO #hotelmanagement #businesstips #culture #listening #recovery

]]> Thu, 18 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1996 Discover the powerful role of empathy and kindness in modern leadership from Ben Campbell, the young CEO of Hospitality America. Ben shares his remarkable journey from starting as a night auditor to overseeing 850 employees across eight states.

This episode dives deep into how defining company culture is the foundation for success in the hospitality industry. Ben explains the rituals that keep a consistent culture, the importance of active listening for employee engagement, and how to coach your team for kindness—because, as he says, "Kindness becomes a system."

Key Discussion Points:

(04:39) Why Empathy in Leadership is non-negotiable for team success.

(06:37) The strategies for Defining Company Culture that allows for scaling.

(10:21) How Listening to employees drives genuine Engagement.

(17:32) Practical advice on Coaching for Kindness within your team.

(22:45) Navigating major setbacks (like COVID-19) and the strategy for recovery.

(27:04) The leader’s role in building hope and supporting hotel staff.

Whether you're interested in business growth, overcoming professional setbacks, or improving team listening, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for any leader in any industry.

#hospitality #leadership #empathy #companyculture #employeengagement #kindness #growth #setbacks #CEO #hotelmanagement #businesstips #culture #listening #recovery

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E17 - Building Resilience through Life's Challenges with Joe Fiore of Republic Hospitality 17 17 S01E17 - Building Resilience through Life's Challenges with Joe Fiore of Republic Hospitality full f5391b6f-48be-4252-8fa8-1bd9d744faab https://share.transistor.fm/s/ead64327 On this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana welcomes guest Joe Fiore for a deeply personal conversation about the inevitable nature of life challenges and the essential role of resilience. Joe shares his journey of facing and overcoming adversity, and how his perspective on obstacles has profoundly evolved over time.

Joe emphasizes that adversity is a natural part of life, and with a resilient mindset, any challenge can be navigated successfully. Learn the simple but profound mantra he uses to stay grounded: "This too shall pass." This episode provides a powerful look at reframing difficult situations, seeing them not as negative events, but as opportunities for personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

How the perception of obstacles changes as you gain more life experience.

The power of the phrase, "This too shall pass," in managing anxiety during tough times.

Why embracing challenges is essential for building inner resilience.

Strategies for shifting your mindset to view adversity as an opportunity for growth, not a setback.

If you are facing struggles or seeking to build greater mental strength, this episode offers a hopeful and practical perspective on overcoming adversity and celebrating your innate ability to persevere.

#obstacles #resilience #lifechallenges #personalgrowth #overcomingadversity #mindset #inspirational #selfimprovement #mentalstrength #joefiore #saraorellana #routetosuccess

]]> On this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana welcomes guest Joe Fiore for a deeply personal conversation about the inevitable nature of life challenges and the essential role of resilience. Joe shares his journey of facing and overcoming adversity, and how his perspective on obstacles has profoundly evolved over time.

Joe emphasizes that adversity is a natural part of life, and with a resilient mindset, any challenge can be navigated successfully. Learn the simple but profound mantra he uses to stay grounded: "This too shall pass." This episode provides a powerful look at reframing difficult situations, seeing them not as negative events, but as opportunities for personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

How the perception of obstacles changes as you gain more life experience.

The power of the phrase, "This too shall pass," in managing anxiety during tough times.

Why embracing challenges is essential for building inner resilience.

Strategies for shifting your mindset to view adversity as an opportunity for growth, not a setback.

If you are facing struggles or seeking to build greater mental strength, this episode offers a hopeful and practical perspective on overcoming adversity and celebrating your innate ability to persevere.

#obstacles #resilience #lifechallenges #personalgrowth #overcomingadversity #mindset #inspirational #selfimprovement #mentalstrength #joefiore #saraorellana #routetosuccess

]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 17:11:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2743 On this episode of Route to Success, host Sara Orellana welcomes guest Joe Fiore for a deeply personal conversation about the inevitable nature of life challenges and the essential role of resilience. Joe shares his journey of facing and overcoming adversity, and how his perspective on obstacles has profoundly evolved over time.

Joe emphasizes that adversity is a natural part of life, and with a resilient mindset, any challenge can be navigated successfully. Learn the simple but profound mantra he uses to stay grounded: "This too shall pass." This episode provides a powerful look at reframing difficult situations, seeing them not as negative events, but as opportunities for personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

How the perception of obstacles changes as you gain more life experience.

The power of the phrase, "This too shall pass," in managing anxiety during tough times.

Why embracing challenges is essential for building inner resilience.

Strategies for shifting your mindset to view adversity as an opportunity for growth, not a setback.

If you are facing struggles or seeking to build greater mental strength, this episode offers a hopeful and practical perspective on overcoming adversity and celebrating your innate ability to persevere.

#obstacles #resilience #lifechallenges #personalgrowth #overcomingadversity #mindset #inspirational #selfimprovement #mentalstrength #joefiore #saraorellana #routetosuccess

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E16 - Empowering Non-Traditional Students in Tech | Khanh Tran 16 16 S01E16 - Empowering Non-Traditional Students in Tech | Khanh Tran full 580823fb-a4af-42d0-a480-907551fae655 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d4189431 In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Khanh Tran, first-generation Vietnamese American, co-owner of Beyond Group Cyber, and founder of TASLE (Technologists Aspiring through Servant Leadership). Khanh shares an inspiring journey from aviation to cybersecurity — and from self-imposed limits to empowered leadership.

They explore how mentorship, integrity, and servant leadership shape inclusive workplaces and why communication and collaboration are the keys to unlocking potential in nontraditional students. Khanh also opens up about how their son’s autism diagnosis transformed their life’s purpose and inspired advocacy for more inclusive programs in technology and education.

Listeners will walk away with practical steps for growth, insight into the human side of cybersecurity, and a reminder that failure truly is the mother of all success.

Listen to learn:

How to overcome self-imposed boundaries and take the first step toward your dreams

Why mentorship at every level—peer or professional—matters

How servant leadership builds stronger, more inclusive teams

The story behind TASLE and its mission to empower technologists through giving and growth

(Guest: Khanh Tran, Beyond Group Cyber | Host: Sara Orellana, The Route to Success)


Khanh's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khanh-t-48842151/

]]> In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Khanh Tran, first-generation Vietnamese American, co-owner of Beyond Group Cyber, and founder of TASLE (Technologists Aspiring through Servant Leadership). Khanh shares an inspiring journey from aviation to cybersecurity — and from self-imposed limits to empowered leadership.

They explore how mentorship, integrity, and servant leadership shape inclusive workplaces and why communication and collaboration are the keys to unlocking potential in nontraditional students. Khanh also opens up about how their son’s autism diagnosis transformed their life’s purpose and inspired advocacy for more inclusive programs in technology and education.

Listeners will walk away with practical steps for growth, insight into the human side of cybersecurity, and a reminder that failure truly is the mother of all success.

Listen to learn:

How to overcome self-imposed boundaries and take the first step toward your dreams

Why mentorship at every level—peer or professional—matters

How servant leadership builds stronger, more inclusive teams

The story behind TASLE and its mission to empower technologists through giving and growth

(Guest: Khanh Tran, Beyond Group Cyber | Host: Sara Orellana, The Route to Success)


Khanh's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khanh-t-48842151/

]]> Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3333 In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Khanh Tran, first-generation Vietnamese American, co-owner of Beyond Group Cyber, and founder of TASLE (Technologists Aspiring through Servant Leadership). Khanh shares an inspiring journey from aviation to cybersecurity — and from self-imposed limits to empowered leadership.

They explore how mentorship, integrity, and servant leadership shape inclusive workplaces and why communication and collaboration are the keys to unlocking potential in nontraditional students. Khanh also opens up about how their son’s autism diagnosis transformed their life’s purpose and inspired advocacy for more inclusive programs in technology and education.

Listeners will walk away with practical steps for growth, insight into the human side of cybersecurity, and a reminder that failure truly is the mother of all success.

Listen to learn:

How to overcome self-imposed boundaries and take the first step toward your dreams

Why mentorship at every level—peer or professional—matters

How servant leadership builds stronger, more inclusive teams

The story behind TASLE and its mission to empower technologists through giving and growth

(Guest: Khanh Tran, Beyond Group Cyber | Host: Sara Orellana, The Route to Success)


Khanh's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khanh-t-48842151/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E15 - The Power of Hope in Recovery with Randy Rush of Courage Center 15 15 S01E15 - The Power of Hope in Recovery with Randy Rush of Courage Center full e15f6e46-3332-47e7-ae01-8778b9f554b2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/daff028b Host Sara Orellana welcomes Randy Rush, a nonprofit leader who shares his powerful journey from corporate sales to leading an organization focused on recovery from substance use disorders.

Randy Rush on recovery that works.
What it covers: a hospital-embedded overdose response model, why lived experience beats stigma, and how a business mindset drives nonprofit ROI. We map the first 30 minutes after stabilization, the metrics funders care about, and the unglamorous but decisive work of meeting basic needs before treatment.

You’ll hear how Courage Center embeds peer coaches in emergency departments, equips EMS with prepaid-phone “connection pouches,” and uses recovery-capital assessments to remove barriers. We dig into recruiting and upskilling staff with lived experience, building win-win partnerships across hospitals, shelters, probation, and county agencies, and measuring avoided ER visits and jail days to unlock funding. We close with one action listeners can take today and where families can get help.


Randy emphasizes the crucial role of hope, strategic partnerships, and a business-minded approach in nonprofit work. The discussion is a deep dive into effective harm reduction strategies and the significance of lived experience in staff recruitment, highlighting how meeting basic needs is fundamental for sustainable recovery.

Learn how this organization leverages community support and celebrates small victories to combat addiction and improve mental health. Randy shares a compelling message of resilience, assuring listeners that "People do recover" and "Families recover too."

Resources mentioned:
• Courage Center: https://couragecentersc.org
 • Email: randy@couragecentersc.org
• Faces & Voices of Recovery directory: https://favor.org
Host: Sara Orellana. Guest: Randy Rush, Executive Director, Courage Center, South Carolina.

Key Discussion Points:

(01:39) Randy’s personal transition from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership.

(14:50) Understanding and implementing harm reduction strategies effectively.

(22:32) The value of lived experience in empowering staff and building trust.

(30:52) Why addressing basic needs is essential for long-term recovery.

(39:26) Practical ways to cultivate and exercise hope in the face of addiction.

(45:18) How listeners can get involved and provide meaningful community support.

If you're interested in the intersection of business strategy and social impact, or seeking inspiration and strategies for recovery, this episode offers a profound message of healing and resilience.

#recovery #substanceusedisorders #nonprofitleadership #harmreduction #communitysupport #livedexperience #partnerships #hope #mentalhealth #addiction #theroutetosuccess #saraorellana

]]> Host Sara Orellana welcomes Randy Rush, a nonprofit leader who shares his powerful journey from corporate sales to leading an organization focused on recovery from substance use disorders.

Randy Rush on recovery that works.
What it covers: a hospital-embedded overdose response model, why lived experience beats stigma, and how a business mindset drives nonprofit ROI. We map the first 30 minutes after stabilization, the metrics funders care about, and the unglamorous but decisive work of meeting basic needs before treatment.

You’ll hear how Courage Center embeds peer coaches in emergency departments, equips EMS with prepaid-phone “connection pouches,” and uses recovery-capital assessments to remove barriers. We dig into recruiting and upskilling staff with lived experience, building win-win partnerships across hospitals, shelters, probation, and county agencies, and measuring avoided ER visits and jail days to unlock funding. We close with one action listeners can take today and where families can get help.


Randy emphasizes the crucial role of hope, strategic partnerships, and a business-minded approach in nonprofit work. The discussion is a deep dive into effective harm reduction strategies and the significance of lived experience in staff recruitment, highlighting how meeting basic needs is fundamental for sustainable recovery.

Learn how this organization leverages community support and celebrates small victories to combat addiction and improve mental health. Randy shares a compelling message of resilience, assuring listeners that "People do recover" and "Families recover too."

Resources mentioned:
• Courage Center: https://couragecentersc.org
 • Email: randy@couragecentersc.org
• Faces & Voices of Recovery directory: https://favor.org
Host: Sara Orellana. Guest: Randy Rush, Executive Director, Courage Center, South Carolina.

Key Discussion Points:

(01:39) Randy’s personal transition from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership.

(14:50) Understanding and implementing harm reduction strategies effectively.

(22:32) The value of lived experience in empowering staff and building trust.

(30:52) Why addressing basic needs is essential for long-term recovery.

(39:26) Practical ways to cultivate and exercise hope in the face of addiction.

(45:18) How listeners can get involved and provide meaningful community support.

If you're interested in the intersection of business strategy and social impact, or seeking inspiration and strategies for recovery, this episode offers a profound message of healing and resilience.

#recovery #substanceusedisorders #nonprofitleadership #harmreduction #communitysupport #livedexperience #partnerships #hope #mentalhealth #addiction #theroutetosuccess #saraorellana

]]> Thu, 27 Nov 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3124 Host Sara Orellana welcomes Randy Rush, a nonprofit leader who shares his powerful journey from corporate sales to leading an organization focused on recovery from substance use disorders.

Randy Rush on recovery that works.
What it covers: a hospital-embedded overdose response model, why lived experience beats stigma, and how a business mindset drives nonprofit ROI. We map the first 30 minutes after stabilization, the metrics funders care about, and the unglamorous but decisive work of meeting basic needs before treatment.

You’ll hear how Courage Center embeds peer coaches in emergency departments, equips EMS with prepaid-phone “connection pouches,” and uses recovery-capital assessments to remove barriers. We dig into recruiting and upskilling staff with lived experience, building win-win partnerships across hospitals, shelters, probation, and county agencies, and measuring avoided ER visits and jail days to unlock funding. We close with one action listeners can take today and where families can get help.


Randy emphasizes the crucial role of hope, strategic partnerships, and a business-minded approach in nonprofit work. The discussion is a deep dive into effective harm reduction strategies and the significance of lived experience in staff recruitment, highlighting how meeting basic needs is fundamental for sustainable recovery.

Learn how this organization leverages community support and celebrates small victories to combat addiction and improve mental health. Randy shares a compelling message of resilience, assuring listeners that "People do recover" and "Families recover too."

Resources mentioned:
• Courage Center: https://couragecentersc.org
 • Email: randy@couragecentersc.org
• Faces & Voices of Recovery directory: https://favor.org
Host: Sara Orellana. Guest: Randy Rush, Executive Director, Courage Center, South Carolina.

Key Discussion Points:

(01:39) Randy’s personal transition from the corporate world to nonprofit leadership.

(14:50) Understanding and implementing harm reduction strategies effectively.

(22:32) The value of lived experience in empowering staff and building trust.

(30:52) Why addressing basic needs is essential for long-term recovery.

(39:26) Practical ways to cultivate and exercise hope in the face of addiction.

(45:18) How listeners can get involved and provide meaningful community support.

If you're interested in the intersection of business strategy and social impact, or seeking inspiration and strategies for recovery, this episode offers a profound message of healing and resilience.

#recovery #substanceusedisorders #nonprofitleadership #harmreduction #communitysupport #livedexperience #partnerships #hope #mentalhealth #addiction #theroutetosuccess #saraorellana

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No S01E14 - Hyperlocal Vertical Farming and Jobs that Last with David Flynn of AmplifiedAg 14 14 S01E14 - Hyperlocal Vertical Farming and Jobs that Last with David Flynn of AmplifiedAg full f3832982-fc86-4aa7-80e8-61eec6a6eebb https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0d075b4 A retired Army veteran turned tech-ag leader, David Flynn explains how Amplified Ag pairs a warehouse-grade control stack with IoT sensors and container farms to grow fresh produce anywhere. We cover why controlled-environment agriculture should complement, not replace, traditional farms. We quantify water and land savings, shelf-life gains, and how “right-sized” hubs cut spoilage and logistics. We dig into workforce programs in prisons and the VA, farm-to-school opportunities, and why replicating small, self-sustaining sites beats scaling one mega-farm.

You’ll learn:

* How a WMS-style platform, sensors, and VPD control run a farm remotely.
* Why hyperlocal capacity matched to local demand protects unit economics.
* The recidivism and employment upside of agriculture training behind the fence.
* How schools and medical centers can stand up on-site production.
* A simple playbook for city lots, community gardens, and corner distribution.

Mentioned:

* Amplified A (vertical farming technology and shipping-container farms).
* Vertical Roots (in-house farm proving the tech).
* Tools: warehouse management–style control system, IoT sensors and controllers, VPD control, controlled-environment agriculture.
* Programs and agencies: USDA Farm-to-School grants, VA medical centers, “Food is Medicine” initiatives.

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidflynn15/

]]> A retired Army veteran turned tech-ag leader, David Flynn explains how Amplified Ag pairs a warehouse-grade control stack with IoT sensors and container farms to grow fresh produce anywhere. We cover why controlled-environment agriculture should complement, not replace, traditional farms. We quantify water and land savings, shelf-life gains, and how “right-sized” hubs cut spoilage and logistics. We dig into workforce programs in prisons and the VA, farm-to-school opportunities, and why replicating small, self-sustaining sites beats scaling one mega-farm.

You’ll learn:

* How a WMS-style platform, sensors, and VPD control run a farm remotely.
* Why hyperlocal capacity matched to local demand protects unit economics.
* The recidivism and employment upside of agriculture training behind the fence.
* How schools and medical centers can stand up on-site production.
* A simple playbook for city lots, community gardens, and corner distribution.

Mentioned:

* Amplified A (vertical farming technology and shipping-container farms).
* Vertical Roots (in-house farm proving the tech).
* Tools: warehouse management–style control system, IoT sensors and controllers, VPD control, controlled-environment agriculture.
* Programs and agencies: USDA Farm-to-School grants, VA medical centers, “Food is Medicine” initiatives.

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidflynn15/

]]> Thu, 20 Nov 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1685 A retired Army veteran turned tech-ag leader, David Flynn explains how Amplified Ag pairs a warehouse-grade control stack with IoT sensors and container farms to grow fresh produce anywhere. We cover why controlled-environment agriculture should complement, not replace, traditional farms. We quantify water and land savings, shelf-life gains, and how “right-sized” hubs cut spoilage and logistics. We dig into workforce programs in prisons and the VA, farm-to-school opportunities, and why replicating small, self-sustaining sites beats scaling one mega-farm.

You’ll learn:

* How a WMS-style platform, sensors, and VPD control run a farm remotely.
* Why hyperlocal capacity matched to local demand protects unit economics.
* The recidivism and employment upside of agriculture training behind the fence.
* How schools and medical centers can stand up on-site production.
* A simple playbook for city lots, community gardens, and corner distribution.

Mentioned:

* Amplified A (vertical farming technology and shipping-container farms).
* Vertical Roots (in-house farm proving the tech).
* Tools: warehouse management–style control system, IoT sensors and controllers, VPD control, controlled-environment agriculture.
* Programs and agencies: USDA Farm-to-School grants, VA medical centers, “Food is Medicine” initiatives.

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidflynn15/

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E13 - Rewiring Hope: How the Brain Learns & Connects with Dr Gina Anderson of Luma Brighter Learning 13 13 SE01E13 - Rewiring Hope: How the Brain Learns & Connects with Dr Gina Anderson of Luma Brighter Learning full 3f56d24d-a679-48f2-bd0c-b1511ccfc1b4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cbaf0778 What if hope isn’t just a feeling—but a skill your brain can learn?
In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Gina Anderson explores the science of hope, resilience, and learning. Discover how neuroplasticity helps us adapt through challenges, why action sparks hope, and how authentic community and peer learning can transform mental health.

You’ll also learn practical ways to:

Reconnect with nature to calm the brain

Set boundaries with digital distractions

Build genuine connections that fuel learning and growth

Whether you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action and rewire your brain for hope.

#Hope #Neuroscience #Resilience #MentalHealth #Learning #Community #BrainScience #PersonalGrowth

]]> What if hope isn’t just a feeling—but a skill your brain can learn?
In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Gina Anderson explores the science of hope, resilience, and learning. Discover how neuroplasticity helps us adapt through challenges, why action sparks hope, and how authentic community and peer learning can transform mental health.

You’ll also learn practical ways to:

Reconnect with nature to calm the brain

Set boundaries with digital distractions

Build genuine connections that fuel learning and growth

Whether you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action and rewire your brain for hope.

#Hope #Neuroscience #Resilience #MentalHealth #Learning #Community #BrainScience #PersonalGrowth

]]> Thu, 13 Nov 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2542 What if hope isn’t just a feeling—but a skill your brain can learn?
In this episode, neuroscientist Dr. Gina Anderson explores the science of hope, resilience, and learning. Discover how neuroplasticity helps us adapt through challenges, why action sparks hope, and how authentic community and peer learning can transform mental health.

You’ll also learn practical ways to:

Reconnect with nature to calm the brain

Set boundaries with digital distractions

Build genuine connections that fuel learning and growth

Whether you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or lifelong learner, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action and rewire your brain for hope.

#Hope #Neuroscience #Resilience #MentalHealth #Learning #Community #BrainScience #PersonalGrowth

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E12 - The Power of Giving and Growing with Courtney Hampson of Bluffton Self Help 12 12 SE01E12 - The Power of Giving and Growing with Courtney Hampson of Bluffton Self Help full 1632f7e3-d17d-45c0-9ef0-f6907075bd4e https://share.transistor.fm/s/7c8aea7d CEO Courtney Hampson joins host Sara Orellana to open the doors of Bluffton Self-Help, a 38-year community hub where a dignified free-grocery market becomes the magnet for deeper support. Hear how integrated services and warm referrals serve about 900 families each month, why 55% engage in more than one program, and how adult education—ESL, GED, digital and financial literacy—can lift earning power by ~$8,000 with 75% class attendance, 95% first-try GED pass rates, and 80% ESL level-ups. Courtney shares merger lessons, a shared-intake partnership with Volunteers in Medicine, and volunteer stewardship that saved roughly $1M last year. We close with simple advice that fits every community: be kind. Find links and ways to help in the show notes. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> CEO Courtney Hampson joins host Sara Orellana to open the doors of Bluffton Self-Help, a 38-year community hub where a dignified free-grocery market becomes the magnet for deeper support. Hear how integrated services and warm referrals serve about 900 families each month, why 55% engage in more than one program, and how adult education—ESL, GED, digital and financial literacy—can lift earning power by ~$8,000 with 75% class attendance, 95% first-try GED pass rates, and 80% ESL level-ups. Courtney shares merger lessons, a shared-intake partnership with Volunteers in Medicine, and volunteer stewardship that saved roughly $1M last year. We close with simple advice that fits every community: be kind. Find links and ways to help in the show notes. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 15:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1754 CEO Courtney Hampson joins host Sara Orellana to open the doors of Bluffton Self-Help, a 38-year community hub where a dignified free-grocery market becomes the magnet for deeper support. Hear how integrated services and warm referrals serve about 900 families each month, why 55% engage in more than one program, and how adult education—ESL, GED, digital and financial literacy—can lift earning power by ~$8,000 with 75% class attendance, 95% first-try GED pass rates, and 80% ESL level-ups. Courtney shares merger lessons, a shared-intake partnership with Volunteers in Medicine, and volunteer stewardship that saved roughly $1M last year. We close with simple advice that fits every community: be kind. Find links and ways to help in the show notes. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E11 - Empowering Women in Engineering with Fionnuala Quinn of Traffic Gardens 11 11 SE01E11 - Empowering Women in Engineering with Fionnuala Quinn of Traffic Gardens full 5a81a528-878b-4898-a562-2c4cd8d2f809 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf74db33 Engineer and entrepreneur Fionnuala Quinn joins host Sara Orellana to share her path from Dublin to the U.S., and from civil engineering to founding Traffic Gardens. She explains what a traffic garden is, why the idea traces back to “Safety Town,” and how a focused pivot turned a playful concept into a national movement. Hear advice for women in STEM, the power of mentors, and what real success looks like: a viable business and neighborhoods alive with kids learning safely. We also dive into learning from the crews who stripe the lines, inviting installers to ribbon cuttings, and practical steps any community can take. Learn more at trafficgardens.com

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Engineer and entrepreneur Fionnuala Quinn joins host Sara Orellana to share her path from Dublin to the U.S., and from civil engineering to founding Traffic Gardens. She explains what a traffic garden is, why the idea traces back to “Safety Town,” and how a focused pivot turned a playful concept into a national movement. Hear advice for women in STEM, the power of mentors, and what real success looks like: a viable business and neighborhoods alive with kids learning safely. We also dive into learning from the crews who stripe the lines, inviting installers to ribbon cuttings, and practical steps any community can take. Learn more at trafficgardens.com

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:00:00 +0000 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2199 Engineer and entrepreneur Fionnuala Quinn joins host Sara Orellana to share her path from Dublin to the U.S., and from civil engineering to founding Traffic Gardens. She explains what a traffic garden is, why the idea traces back to “Safety Town,” and how a focused pivot turned a playful concept into a national movement. Hear advice for women in STEM, the power of mentors, and what real success looks like: a viable business and neighborhoods alive with kids learning safely. We also dive into learning from the crews who stripe the lines, inviting installers to ribbon cuttings, and practical steps any community can take. Learn more at trafficgardens.com

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E10 - From Intern to Inspiring CEO with Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative 10 10 SE01E10 - From Intern to Inspiring CEO with Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative full 18397023-c0d1-48c2-87d4-b2cce36a7c60 https://share.transistor.fm/s/72a4e723 From cutting rights-of-way at 18 to CEO by 35, Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative joins host Sara Orellana to unpack a three-decade rise, the mentors who shaped it, and the mindset that “when opportunity comes, it’s too late to prepare.” He also explains why he is pursuing a PhD at Clemson to bridge research and practice, and what humility and continuous learning look like in the C-suite.

Inside the cooperative model, Mike details how member ownership, a focus on safe, reliable, affordable power, and measurable givebacks drive community impact, including returning nearly $8 million to members and supporting programs like backpacks and lunch buddies. He shares why “no one does it alone,” how he builds trust across every role, and why complacency is the enemy of service. Practical leadership, servant heart, real-world impact.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> From cutting rights-of-way at 18 to CEO by 35, Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative joins host Sara Orellana to unpack a three-decade rise, the mentors who shaped it, and the mindset that “when opportunity comes, it’s too late to prepare.” He also explains why he is pursuing a PhD at Clemson to bridge research and practice, and what humility and continuous learning look like in the C-suite.

Inside the cooperative model, Mike details how member ownership, a focus on safe, reliable, affordable power, and measurable givebacks drive community impact, including returning nearly $8 million to members and supporting programs like backpacks and lunch buddies. He shares why “no one does it alone,” how he builds trust across every role, and why complacency is the enemy of service. Practical leadership, servant heart, real-world impact.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1367 From cutting rights-of-way at 18 to CEO by 35, Mike Fuller of Berkeley Electric Cooperative joins host Sara Orellana to unpack a three-decade rise, the mentors who shaped it, and the mindset that “when opportunity comes, it’s too late to prepare.” He also explains why he is pursuing a PhD at Clemson to bridge research and practice, and what humility and continuous learning look like in the C-suite.

Inside the cooperative model, Mike details how member ownership, a focus on safe, reliable, affordable power, and measurable givebacks drive community impact, including returning nearly $8 million to members and supporting programs like backpacks and lunch buddies. He shares why “no one does it alone,” how he builds trust across every role, and why complacency is the enemy of service. Practical leadership, servant heart, real-world impact.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E09 - Protecting Nonprofits in a Digital World with Ian Gottesman of NGO-ISAC 9 9 SE01E09 - Protecting Nonprofits in a Digital World with Ian Gottesman of NGO-ISAC full eab078f6-1e0e-4c5b-85da-4216f42f5baf https://share.transistor.fm/s/aab27b3c In this episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana sits down with Ian Gottesman, founder and CEO of NGOSAC, a nonprofit helping other nonprofits strengthen their cybersecurity. Ian shares why protecting digital systems is critical for mission-driven organizations, the biggest challenges nonprofits face in a “do more with less” environment, and three simple steps that address most cybersecurity risks. He also reflects on his career journey—from Peace Corps service to leading in technology and nonprofit spaces—and offers practical advice for both nonprofits and individuals pursuing a path in cybersecurity.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> In this episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana sits down with Ian Gottesman, founder and CEO of NGOSAC, a nonprofit helping other nonprofits strengthen their cybersecurity. Ian shares why protecting digital systems is critical for mission-driven organizations, the biggest challenges nonprofits face in a “do more with less” environment, and three simple steps that address most cybersecurity risks. He also reflects on his career journey—from Peace Corps service to leading in technology and nonprofit spaces—and offers practical advice for both nonprofits and individuals pursuing a path in cybersecurity.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2481 In this episode of The Route to Success, Sara Orellana sits down with Ian Gottesman, founder and CEO of NGOSAC, a nonprofit helping other nonprofits strengthen their cybersecurity. Ian shares why protecting digital systems is critical for mission-driven organizations, the biggest challenges nonprofits face in a “do more with less” environment, and three simple steps that address most cybersecurity risks. He also reflects on his career journey—from Peace Corps service to leading in technology and nonprofit spaces—and offers practical advice for both nonprofits and individuals pursuing a path in cybersecurity.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E08 - Tackling Nonprofit Challenges with Purpose with Joseph Debney of Summerville Family YMCA 8 8 SE01E08 - Tackling Nonprofit Challenges with Purpose with Joseph Debney of Summerville Family YMCA full fc499f25-3f50-4ac8-ab88-eaea9e06769c https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf2f7d0b Host Sara Orellana talks with Joe Debney, Executive Director of the Summerville Family YMCA, about his unique path from running elections to leading a nonprofit. They discuss the Y’s impact through community health, youth programs, and outreach initiatives like bed-building for kids and Y on the Fly. Joe also shares insights on serving rural communities, building partnerships, and how anyone can get involved with their local YMCA.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Host Sara Orellana talks with Joe Debney, Executive Director of the Summerville Family YMCA, about his unique path from running elections to leading a nonprofit. They discuss the Y’s impact through community health, youth programs, and outreach initiatives like bed-building for kids and Y on the Fly. Joe also shares insights on serving rural communities, building partnerships, and how anyone can get involved with their local YMCA.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1586 Host Sara Orellana talks with Joe Debney, Executive Director of the Summerville Family YMCA, about his unique path from running elections to leading a nonprofit. They discuss the Y’s impact through community health, youth programs, and outreach initiatives like bed-building for kids and Y on the Fly. Joe also shares insights on serving rural communities, building partnerships, and how anyone can get involved with their local YMCA.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E07 - Strategic Nonprofit Leadership with Jesse Rudy of Redeem International 7 7 SE01E07 - Strategic Nonprofit Leadership with Jesse Rudy of Redeem International full 5c8dceb8-4682-454f-8500-c791a6fb334f https://share.transistor.fm/s/0dc0ff5f In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jesse Rudy, Founder and CEO of Redeem International. Jesse shares how his organization protects widows and orphans in Uganda and Zambia from land grabbing, a violent crime that threatens families at their most vulnerable. Together, they discuss resilience, building strong partnerships, and why nonprofits must stay laser-focused on their mission to create lasting impact.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jesse Rudy, Founder and CEO of Redeem International. Jesse shares how his organization protects widows and orphans in Uganda and Zambia from land grabbing, a violent crime that threatens families at their most vulnerable. Together, they discuss resilience, building strong partnerships, and why nonprofits must stay laser-focused on their mission to create lasting impact.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1868 In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Jesse Rudy, Founder and CEO of Redeem International. Jesse shares how his organization protects widows and orphans in Uganda and Zambia from land grabbing, a violent crime that threatens families at their most vulnerable. Together, they discuss resilience, building strong partnerships, and why nonprofits must stay laser-focused on their mission to create lasting impact.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E06 - Balancing Caregiving, Self-care and Business with Aisha and Sandra of Steady Care LLC 6 6 SE01E06 - Balancing Caregiving, Self-care and Business with Aisha and Sandra of Steady Care LLC full 07dce4d4-fe33-4291-9d05-6286ede5306e https://share.transistor.fm/s/013a3322 Welcome to The Route to Success, the podcast where we explore the journeys of changemakers, innovators, and leaders making an impact in communities across the United States. I’m your host, Sara Orellana, and today we’re spotlighting two incredible women—Aisha and Sandra—the founders of Steady Care LLC.

Their mission is both powerful and deeply personal: to provide comprehensive mental health services to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families as they transition to civilian life. With lived connections to the military community, they’ve designed a program that breaks down barriers, removes red tape, and delivers wraparound support—not just for the individual, but for the entire family.

In this conversation, we’ll talk about the inspiration behind Steady Care, the challenges of balancing clinical work with launching a business, and the strategies they’re using to create a sustainable, purpose-driven venture. If you care about mental health, veterans, or building stronger communities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Welcome to The Route to Success, the podcast where we explore the journeys of changemakers, innovators, and leaders making an impact in communities across the United States. I’m your host, Sara Orellana, and today we’re spotlighting two incredible women—Aisha and Sandra—the founders of Steady Care LLC.

Their mission is both powerful and deeply personal: to provide comprehensive mental health services to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families as they transition to civilian life. With lived connections to the military community, they’ve designed a program that breaks down barriers, removes red tape, and delivers wraparound support—not just for the individual, but for the entire family.

In this conversation, we’ll talk about the inspiration behind Steady Care, the challenges of balancing clinical work with launching a business, and the strategies they’re using to create a sustainable, purpose-driven venture. If you care about mental health, veterans, or building stronger communities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 25 Sep 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1017 Welcome to The Route to Success, the podcast where we explore the journeys of changemakers, innovators, and leaders making an impact in communities across the United States. I’m your host, Sara Orellana, and today we’re spotlighting two incredible women—Aisha and Sandra—the founders of Steady Care LLC.

Their mission is both powerful and deeply personal: to provide comprehensive mental health services to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families as they transition to civilian life. With lived connections to the military community, they’ve designed a program that breaks down barriers, removes red tape, and delivers wraparound support—not just for the individual, but for the entire family.

In this conversation, we’ll talk about the inspiration behind Steady Care, the challenges of balancing clinical work with launching a business, and the strategies they’re using to create a sustainable, purpose-driven venture. If you care about mental health, veterans, or building stronger communities, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E05 - Building a Powerful Personal Brand with Judy Schramm of ProResource 5 5 SE01E05 - Building a Powerful Personal Brand with Judy Schramm of ProResource full 947f5f49-1d3b-4d5f-873a-65df16e5217a https://share.transistor.fm/s/303fdeb9 In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Judy Schramm, CEO of ProResource, a marketing agency specializing in helping CEOs and executives build strong personal brands through LinkedIn.

Judy shares her passion for marketing, her belief in aligning your business with who you are, and why personal branding is more critical than ever in 2025. From overcoming resistance and setting boundaries to evolving your role as you grow, Judy offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone seeking to amplify their professional presence.

Listeners will learn:

  • How to use LinkedIn effectively to position yourself as a thought leader

  • Why passion fuels success—and why boundaries sustain it

  • The importance of listening to your audience and using their language

  • How to hire the right marketing partner for your business needs

Whether you’re a seasoned CEO or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, this conversation is packed with insights on branding, mindset, and creating a business that works for your life.


I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Judy Schramm, CEO of ProResource, a marketing agency specializing in helping CEOs and executives build strong personal brands through LinkedIn.

Judy shares her passion for marketing, her belief in aligning your business with who you are, and why personal branding is more critical than ever in 2025. From overcoming resistance and setting boundaries to evolving your role as you grow, Judy offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone seeking to amplify their professional presence.

Listeners will learn:

  • How to use LinkedIn effectively to position yourself as a thought leader

  • Why passion fuels success—and why boundaries sustain it

  • The importance of listening to your audience and using their language

  • How to hire the right marketing partner for your business needs

Whether you’re a seasoned CEO or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, this conversation is packed with insights on branding, mindset, and creating a business that works for your life.


I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1354 In this episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Judy Schramm, CEO of ProResource, a marketing agency specializing in helping CEOs and executives build strong personal brands through LinkedIn.

Judy shares her passion for marketing, her belief in aligning your business with who you are, and why personal branding is more critical than ever in 2025. From overcoming resistance and setting boundaries to evolving your role as you grow, Judy offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs, executives, and anyone seeking to amplify their professional presence.

Listeners will learn:

  • How to use LinkedIn effectively to position yourself as a thought leader

  • Why passion fuels success—and why boundaries sustain it

  • The importance of listening to your audience and using their language

  • How to hire the right marketing partner for your business needs

Whether you’re a seasoned CEO or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, this conversation is packed with insights on branding, mindset, and creating a business that works for your life.


I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E04 - Leading with Vision and Vulnerability with Larry Eason of Richmond Animal League 4 4 SE01E04 - Leading with Vision and Vulnerability with Larry Eason of Richmond Animal League full a3ffff52-16b8-493c-a56c-a545dbe8ce15 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bfa4862c In this episode, Sara Orellana speaks with Larry Eason, Executive Director of Richmond Animal League, about how clear vision, strategic communication, and authentic leadership can transform nonprofit organizations. They explore practical ways to break down silos, combat compassion fatigue, and foster alignment between staff and board—plus, the value of listening and leading with humility.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> In this episode, Sara Orellana speaks with Larry Eason, Executive Director of Richmond Animal League, about how clear vision, strategic communication, and authentic leadership can transform nonprofit organizations. They explore practical ways to break down silos, combat compassion fatigue, and foster alignment between staff and board—plus, the value of listening and leading with humility.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 2094 In this episode, Sara Orellana speaks with Larry Eason, Executive Director of Richmond Animal League, about how clear vision, strategic communication, and authentic leadership can transform nonprofit organizations. They explore practical ways to break down silos, combat compassion fatigue, and foster alignment between staff and board—plus, the value of listening and leading with humility.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E03 - Transforming Lives Through Inclusion with Debi Alexander of Spark Solutions 3 3 SE01E03 - Transforming Lives Through Inclusion with Debi Alexander of Spark Solutions full f1b18e96-6aed-485b-a81f-5f99f0a05087 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1cde7b43 In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Sara Orellana sits down with Debi Alexander, Executive Director of Spark Solutions, an organization changing the game for adults with severe multiple disabilities. Debi shares Spark’s inspiring mission of providing inclusion, dignity, and joyful engagement to a population often overlooked and underserved after aging out of the school system.
From karaoke moments that bring tears to your eyes to groundbreaking partnerships with Spirit Exercise, A Place to Be, and George Washington University for adaptive yoga, music therapy, and AI-powered creative programs, this episode is packed with examples of how Spark fosters connection, hope, and transformation.
Debi and Sara also dive deep into the systemic challenges facing this community—like implicit bias, funding gaps, inaccessible medical care, and broken transportation systems—and how advocacy and public awareness can drive meaningful change.
Whether you're a nonprofit professional, aspiring changemaker, or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode reminds us that joy, value, and purpose belong to everyone.

📍Recorded on the road as part of The Route to Success podcast tour.
🎧 Tune in to hear how one woman’s passion is rewriting what’s possible. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Sara Orellana sits down with Debi Alexander, Executive Director of Spark Solutions, an organization changing the game for adults with severe multiple disabilities. Debi shares Spark’s inspiring mission of providing inclusion, dignity, and joyful engagement to a population often overlooked and underserved after aging out of the school system.
From karaoke moments that bring tears to your eyes to groundbreaking partnerships with Spirit Exercise, A Place to Be, and George Washington University for adaptive yoga, music therapy, and AI-powered creative programs, this episode is packed with examples of how Spark fosters connection, hope, and transformation.
Debi and Sara also dive deep into the systemic challenges facing this community—like implicit bias, funding gaps, inaccessible medical care, and broken transportation systems—and how advocacy and public awareness can drive meaningful change.
Whether you're a nonprofit professional, aspiring changemaker, or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode reminds us that joy, value, and purpose belong to everyone.

📍Recorded on the road as part of The Route to Success podcast tour.
🎧 Tune in to hear how one woman’s passion is rewriting what’s possible. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1308 In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Sara Orellana sits down with Debi Alexander, Executive Director of Spark Solutions, an organization changing the game for adults with severe multiple disabilities. Debi shares Spark’s inspiring mission of providing inclusion, dignity, and joyful engagement to a population often overlooked and underserved after aging out of the school system.
From karaoke moments that bring tears to your eyes to groundbreaking partnerships with Spirit Exercise, A Place to Be, and George Washington University for adaptive yoga, music therapy, and AI-powered creative programs, this episode is packed with examples of how Spark fosters connection, hope, and transformation.
Debi and Sara also dive deep into the systemic challenges facing this community—like implicit bias, funding gaps, inaccessible medical care, and broken transportation systems—and how advocacy and public awareness can drive meaningful change.
Whether you're a nonprofit professional, aspiring changemaker, or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode reminds us that joy, value, and purpose belong to everyone.

📍Recorded on the road as part of The Route to Success podcast tour.
🎧 Tune in to hear how one woman’s passion is rewriting what’s possible. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team

Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/

#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E02 - The Journey of Compassionate Leadership with Leah Fraley of United Community 2 2 SE01E02 - The Journey of Compassionate Leadership with Leah Fraley of United Community full adc555e8-b965-4fb5-98b8-736200c134ac https://share.transistor.fm/s/9761cc47 In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Leah Fraley, a bold voice in the nonprofit world, to explore what it truly means to lead with passion, purpose, and compassion. Together, they dig into the emotional realities of frontline service work, the urgent need to shift societal perceptions of poverty, and why nonprofit leadership must be more than operational—it must be transformational.

Leah shares personal stories of overcoming adversity, calls for a culture that celebrates growth through transparency and failure, and advocates for systemic solutions that empower rather than enable. Sara brings her own experiences as a former nonprofit executive to the table, creating a heartfelt, no-holds-barred conversation on how to break down barriers, champion dignity, and reignite the spark in mission-driven work.

This episode is for anyone who believes nonprofits can and must be both compassionate and strategic, personal and professional, visionary and grounded.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team


Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders 

]]> In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Leah Fraley, a bold voice in the nonprofit world, to explore what it truly means to lead with passion, purpose, and compassion. Together, they dig into the emotional realities of frontline service work, the urgent need to shift societal perceptions of poverty, and why nonprofit leadership must be more than operational—it must be transformational.

Leah shares personal stories of overcoming adversity, calls for a culture that celebrates growth through transparency and failure, and advocates for systemic solutions that empower rather than enable. Sara brings her own experiences as a former nonprofit executive to the table, creating a heartfelt, no-holds-barred conversation on how to break down barriers, champion dignity, and reignite the spark in mission-driven work.

This episode is for anyone who believes nonprofits can and must be both compassionate and strategic, personal and professional, visionary and grounded.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team


Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders 

]]> Thu, 28 Aug 2025 15:00:00 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 3207 In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The Route to Success, host Sara Orellana sits down with Leah Fraley, a bold voice in the nonprofit world, to explore what it truly means to lead with passion, purpose, and compassion. Together, they dig into the emotional realities of frontline service work, the urgent need to shift societal perceptions of poverty, and why nonprofit leadership must be more than operational—it must be transformational.

Leah shares personal stories of overcoming adversity, calls for a culture that celebrates growth through transparency and failure, and advocates for systemic solutions that empower rather than enable. Sara brings her own experiences as a former nonprofit executive to the table, creating a heartfelt, no-holds-barred conversation on how to break down barriers, champion dignity, and reignite the spark in mission-driven work.

This episode is for anyone who believes nonprofits can and must be both compassionate and strategic, personal and professional, visionary and grounded.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team


Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders 

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No SE01E01 - Building Future Leaders Through Coopertition with Alex Bryant of First Chesapeake 1 1 SE01E01 - Building Future Leaders Through Coopertition with Alex Bryant of First Chesapeake full 842ea97e-12de-4da0-bd84-724467438c01 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d5dff3d8 In this episode of The Road to Success, host Sara Orellana speaks with Alex Bryant, a visionary nonprofit leader and chief fundraiser at First Chesapeake. Operating across Virginia, DC, Maryland, and West Virginia, First Chesapeake equips the next generation of leaders—not just with STEM knowledge, but with critical 21st-century skills like self-advocacy, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving.

Alex shares how the organization’s unique blend of robotics, mentorship, and “coopertition”—a culture that blends competition with cooperation—is breaking down barriers, fostering community, and offering life-changing opportunities for youth, especially those from underserved communities.

Together, Sara and Alex explore how mentorship, volunteerism, and adult modeling shape the next generation, and why nonprofit leadership is ultimately about resilience, risk-taking, and a belief in systemic change.

This inspiring conversation is a must-listen for educators, nonprofit professionals, and anyone passionate about equity, innovation, and the power of youth leadership.


I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team


Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders #coopertition

]]> In this episode of The Road to Success, host Sara Orellana speaks with Alex Bryant, a visionary nonprofit leader and chief fundraiser at First Chesapeake. Operating across Virginia, DC, Maryland, and West Virginia, First Chesapeake equips the next generation of leaders—not just with STEM knowledge, but with critical 21st-century skills like self-advocacy, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving.

Alex shares how the organization’s unique blend of robotics, mentorship, and “coopertition”—a culture that blends competition with cooperation—is breaking down barriers, fostering community, and offering life-changing opportunities for youth, especially those from underserved communities.

Together, Sara and Alex explore how mentorship, volunteerism, and adult modeling shape the next generation, and why nonprofit leadership is ultimately about resilience, risk-taking, and a belief in systemic change.

This inspiring conversation is a must-listen for educators, nonprofit professionals, and anyone passionate about equity, innovation, and the power of youth leadership.


I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team


Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders #coopertition

]]> Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:33:44 +0100 Sara Orellena Sara Orellena 1771 In this episode of The Road to Success, host Sara Orellana speaks with Alex Bryant, a visionary nonprofit leader and chief fundraiser at First Chesapeake. Operating across Virginia, DC, Maryland, and West Virginia, First Chesapeake equips the next generation of leaders—not just with STEM knowledge, but with critical 21st-century skills like self-advocacy, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving.

Alex shares how the organization’s unique blend of robotics, mentorship, and “coopertition”—a culture that blends competition with cooperation—is breaking down barriers, fostering community, and offering life-changing opportunities for youth, especially those from underserved communities.

Together, Sara and Alex explore how mentorship, volunteerism, and adult modeling shape the next generation, and why nonprofit leadership is ultimately about resilience, risk-taking, and a belief in systemic change.

This inspiring conversation is a must-listen for educators, nonprofit professionals, and anyone passionate about equity, innovation, and the power of youth leadership.


I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Sara and the Route to Success Podcast Team


Connect with Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-c-orellana/
Visit the 3 Raptor Consulting website here: https://3raptorconsulting.com/


#theroutetosuccess #podcastshow #podcast #futureleaders #coopertition

]]> Route to Success Podcast, Leadership, Jobs, Continued learning, Leadership development, Difficult conversations, Difficult decisions, Career change, Personal development, Life stories, Community, Support systems, Peers and coworkers ,Team leading, Life changes, Careers, Growth, Resilience, Hope No