LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Sara Freeman Smith

Episode Title: Turning Setbacks into Powerful Comebacks Guest: Sara Freeman-Smith Host: Dr. Allen Lycka Introduction Host: Dr. Allen Lycka introduces Sara Freeman-Smith, a blind, inspirational speaker, author, former HR recruiting leader, and disability advocate who turned her setback into a powerful comeback.Guest: Sara Freeman-Smith shares her journey of becoming blind later in life and how she overcame the challenges it presented. Sara's Journey to Blindness Initial Signs: Sara noticed her vision deteriorating mid-career, missing signage while driving, and struggling with reading street signs and PowerPoint presentations.Diagnosis: After multiple tests, Sara was diagnosed with a genetic autoimmune condition attacking her retina, leading to irreversible blindness.Emotional Struggles: Sara talks about going through a grieving process, experiencing phases of anger, denial, bargaining, and depression. Overcoming Adversity Faith and Reflection: Sara emphasizes the importance of reflecting and being rooted in something higher to cope with devastating news.Adapting to Change: Sara discusses her familiarity with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the importance of seeking accommodations and assistive technology.Learning to Ask for Help: Sara stresses the significance of asking for help and using available resources to continue thriving professionally and personally. The Four R's of Resilience Reflect: Take time to be still, reflect on the situation, and focus on what you can do.Refine: Surround yourself with positive influences and break down challenges into manageable steps.Reinvent: Reimagine your life with the tools and accommodations available to you.Reboot: Recharge and invest in yourself continuously. Becoming a Disability Advocate Advocacy Message: Sara highlights the untapped potential of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and encourages employers to be inclusive.Encouragement to Others: Sara advises individuals with disabilities to reach out, find support groups, and not let their circumstances define their destiny. Living a Fantastic Life Enjoying Life: Sara shares how she continues to enjoy her hobbies and social life through the use of technology, such as audio descriptions in theaters and accessible reading tools.Family Life: Despite her blindness, Sara remains active in her family life and hobbies, including cooking and traveling. Sara's Book: "Turning Stones into Gems" Six P Process: Sara briefly discusses the six P’s: Prayer, Plan, Passion, Patience, Persistence, and Paying it Forward.Availability: Sara's book is available on her website, where additional resources like an action planner and gratitude journal can be accessed. Conclusion Final Thoughts: Dr. Lycka commends Sara for her resilience and advocacy work, encouraging listeners to apply the insights shared in their own lives.Contact Information:Sara Freeman-Smith: Visit www.urgems.com to learn more about Sara’s work and to purchase her book.Dr. Allen Lycka: For more on living a fantastic life, visit www.drallenlycka.com. Call to Action: Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you found this episode inspiring. Explore more episodes at Dr. Allen Lycka's website for insights on living a fantastic life. BIO: Sara Freeman Smith is a blind inspirational speaker & author, former HR/Recruiting leader & Disability Advocate who defied the odds when she took her setback & turned it into her powerful comeback! She Social Media: Website: www.urgems.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sarafreemansmith/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/urgemsgroupinc LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-freeman-smith/ X or Twitter https://x.com/sarafsmith_