029 | The Best Laid Plans: Sandra Hartlieb's Story of Finding Worth Beyond Work

Hi there, friend! In this moving episode, I interview Sandra Hartlieb, a legally blind storyteller, speaker, and author who brings biblical characters to life through first-person dramatic portrayals. Sandra shares her powerful journey from Broadway dreams to professional theater, through devastating vision loss, to discovering her true calling and identity. Born with severe vision impairment, Sandra wore "Coke bottle glasses" as a child and eventually needed a cornea transplant. Despite pursuing theater at Indiana University and winning awards for acting and directing, she realized professional theater wasn't aligned with her faith. Years later, while thriving in her "dream job" advocating for people with disabilities, Sandra had to surrender her driver's license in 2009—ending not just her independence but her career. The depression that followed was so severe her doctor referred her to a psychologist. During one session, the therapist asked about Sandra's grandchildren: "Didn't you love them from the moment they were born? Why? They hadn't done anything." That question became Sandra's breakthrough moment—realizing her worth wasn't tied to her accomplishments but to being a "daughter of the King." Now in full-time ministry since 2023, Sandra travels (with her husband driving) performing as Mary, Peter's mother-in-law, the Jewish midwife Pua, and other biblical women, transporting audiences to ancient villages and wedding feasts through intimate storytelling. Key Takeaways: "We can make our plans, but God directs our steps" (Proverbs 16:9) - Even when walking in God's will, He may redirect you to something better Your worth isn't in what you do - Like grandchildren loved before accomplishing anything, God loves us simply because we're His children Open your hands to receive - Holding tightly to your own plans prevents God from giving you what He has for you Every experience prepares you - God uses seemingly unrelated experiences throughout your life to equip you for your ultimate calling Depression after loss is normal - Losing identity tied to work or abilities requires professional help and time to process This episode offers hope for anyone facing career loss, disability, retirement, or any situation where God's plan looks nothing like what they expected. Sandra's story proves that what feels like loss is often God's redirection toward something better. May God richly bless you today, my friend. Always, Anna Mentions Proverbs 16:9 CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author Connect with Sandra via her website