In this conversation, we had the privilege of speaking with Sara Connell, bestselling author, coach, and founder of Thought Leader Academy. Sara shares her journey from self-doubt to empowering thought leaders to craft their message, write bestselling books, and take the stage with confidence. Her story is a testament to the power of trusting your intuition, overcoming fear, and stepping boldly into the spotlight.
Finding Her Voice and Purpose
Sara’s journey began with a deep love for books that helped her escape, learn, and grow as a child. Despite this passion, self-doubt and external messages convinced her she wasn’t good enough. Years later, after a toxic corporate experience, she picked up a book by chance that changed her life.
“I found this book in an airport, written by a woman I’d never heard of. She shared her trauma and her healing, and it saved my life. That moment, I decided I’d dedicate myself to helping others share their stories,” Sara recalls.
Fueled by this epiphany, Sara became a licensed therapist, a master coach, and earned a master’s degree in writing. Today, she’s a bestselling author and the guiding force behind countless successful thought leaders.
Breaking Through Fear and Limiting Beliefs
Sara emphasizes that fear is often the biggest barrier for aspiring thought leaders. She explains, “Most people fear judgment, trolls, or rejection, but it’s our own inner critic that holds us back.”
To combat these fears, Sara teaches her clients to embrace visibility by acknowledging their limiting beliefs and shifting their mindset. “If it doesn’t feel good, it’s probably not true. You can reframe those thoughts and step into your purpose,” she shares.
Cracking the Code to Success
Sara has reverse-engineered the elements of bestselling books and crafted a three-part framework that enables her clients to write impactful books in weeks instead of years. This system includes both practical strategies and mindset work to build confidence and overcome imposter syndrome.
“You don’t need to be a celebrity or have a million followers to succeed,” Sara explains. “You need a clear message, a strategy, and the courage to share your story authentically.”
Leading With Intuition and Abundance
For Sara, intuition is at the heart of her success. “Living by intuition is a commitment. It always guides me in the right direction,” she says. She encourages her clients to develop trust in their inner voice and overcome self-doubt by focusing on their unique strengths and message.
Sara also champions a mindset of abundance. “When you create from a place of abundance, you’re not afraid to give generously. There’s enough success for everyone,” she says.
A Message for Aspiring Thought Leaders
Sara’s advice to those starting their journey is simple but profound: “You don’t need a perfect track record to start. Commit to the process, take courageous action, and confidence will follow.”
She also urges thought leaders to embrace their unique gifts: “Your story and message matter. The people who need your words are out there waiting for you to share them.”
Join the Movement
Sara’s dedication to helping thought leaders shine is evident in her upcoming Triple Power bestselling book bootcamp. Designed for coaches, practitioners, and experts, this programme combines mindset mastery and actionable strategies to help participants craft their message and build their legacy.
For those ready to step into their power, Sara offers this final encouragement: “Stop hiding your message. The time is now, and the bigger you play, the more everyone wins.”
