Love in Action

This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org  

 

Episode recap: 

 

Today’s guest is Bree Sarlati, President and CEO of Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Sarlati is leading Peak Performers’ mission to raise the standard of employment for people with disabilities. She breaks down the biases that still shape hiring and explains how Peak is proving that skilled talent is everywhere. We discuss how to build inclusive teams and how Peak is scaling nationally while staying deeply human-centered. Bree also shares their “Talent Without Limits” initiative and explains how her team is integrating AI into recruiting without losing empathy or accountability. 

 

BIO:

 

Bree Sarlati is a pragmatic strategist known for turning complexity into clarity. As CEO of Peak Performers, Bree has led the organization's national expansion, modernizing operations, embracing new technology, and scaling its mission beyond Texas. Her focus on agility ensures that even as Peak grows, it never loses the human touch that defines its work. Bree has a talent for spotting potential that others miss and for connecting people with opportunities that move them forward. Passionate about disability employment and gender equity in leadership, she champions fair, future-ready systems and brings clarity, curiosity, and a people-first approach when the stakes are high.

 

Quotes: 

Our mission as a non-profit has always been to set a higher standard of employment for people with disabilities. 

We stay focused on the candidates who are going through one of the most stressful experiences of their lives, which is job searching. That's a time when we should be very aware of people's human-level needs. 

A CEO always needs to be looking inward and asking, 'What skills do I need to add to take this organization to where I want it to go? 

Takeaways: 

Inclusive hiring unlocks hidden talent and drives organizational success. 

Disabilities encompass many unseen conditions and should be understood broadly. 

Technology can scale impact without sacrificing the human connection in recruiting. 

Agile leadership starts with self-awareness and adapting to constant change. 

Empathy and respect should guide all workplace interactions and decision-making. 

Timestamps: 

00:00:00 Introduction and Overview of Peak Performers 

00:02:30 Bree Sarlati’s Journey and Passion for Storytelling 

00:08:40 Peak Performers’ Mission and Redefining Disability Employment 

00:14:20 Challenges and Evolution in Disability-Inclusive Hiring 

00:21:00 The Importance of Agility and Leadership Self-Awareness 

00:26:30 Building Agile, Human-Centered Teams 

00:32:00 Leveraging Technology Without Losing the Human Touch 

00:36:30 The “Talent Without Limits” Initiative 

00:41:00 The Role of Empathy, AI, and Creativity in Modern Recruiting 

00:45:30 Leading with Love, Key Takeaways, and Final Thoughts 

00:49:00 Connecting with Bree Sarlati and Closing Remarks 

 

Conclusion: 

As this inspiring conversation draws to a close, reflect on how inclusive hiring can transform both businesses and lives. We have learned that true agility in leadership comes from embracing change with empathy and purpose. Peak Performers shows us that technology and human connection can coexist to build workplaces of belonging. The journey to future-ready teams begins by recognizing untapped potential and challenging our own assumptions. Let us carry these lessons forward and strive to create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

 

Links/Resources: 

Peak Performers Website: https://www.peakperformers.org/  

Peak Performers on LinkedIn (Company Page): https://www.linkedin.com/company/peak-performers-staffing-agency/  

Bree Sarlati on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bree-sarlati/  

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9fO2r_ZQ3wy5ie522f-DTQ  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/

Don’t forget Marcel’s special offer to join his Substack community. Subscribe here:

https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/subscribe

 

Episode recap:

This episode explores a quiet but powerful turning point many high-achieving leaders face in midlife, when success no longer feels fulfilling. It names the real issue—not burnout, but misalignment between a leader’s outer accomplishments and inner values—and reframes it as a necessary recalibration rather than a crisis. Through reflection, values realignment, and intentional listening, leaders can reconnect with meaning, purpose, and a more authentic way of leading and living.

 

Bio:

Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition.

 

Quotes: 

True fulfillment begins when you pause to listen to your inner voice, not just your outer achievements. 

The greatest crisis we face in midlife is not failure but living a life out of alignment with who we truly are. 

Success without meaning will always leave you feeling restless and incomplete. 

When you dare to revisit your core values, you rediscover the energy and purpose that fuel your next chapter. 

Your next breakthrough starts when you ask what decision moves you closer to who you are becoming. 

 

Takeaways: 

External accomplishments alone cannot bring lasting fulfillment without inner alignment. 

Regular stillness and reflection are essential to connect with your true values and desires. 

Midlife is not a crisis, but a powerful opportunity for recalibration and growth. 

Simple daily questions and journaling can reveal the real story of who you are now. 

Realigning your life with your authentic self opens the door to deeper joy, meaning, and impact. 

 

Timestamps: 

00:00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Question Behind Success

00:01:40 Success Achieved, Emptiness Remains

00:03:20 The Disconnect of “Going Through the Motions.”

00:05:00 Decades of Momentum & Inner Tiredness

00:06:40 Playing a Character & Seeking Deeper Meaning

00:08:20 Facing Burnout & The Concept of Misalignment

00:10:00 Rediscovering Values and Building Self-Awareness

00:11:40 Time to Pivot: Steps for Realignment

00:13:20 Grounding Yourself with Daily Questions

00:15:00 Journaling Exercise, Reflections & Outro

 

Conclusion: 

True fulfillment starts when you stop chasing more and start tuning into what matters most within. The path to congruence is not about abandoning your achievements but about aligning them with your deepest values and desires. Remember, the discomfort you feel is really an invitation that serves as a wake-up call to a richer, more meaningful season of life. By embracing stillness, revisiting your core values, and asking powerful questions, you can chart a new course that feels genuinely right for you. Your next chapter is waiting, so are you ready to write it with purpose and passion? 

 

Links/Resources: 

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MarcelSchwantes1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/

Episode recap:

This episode explores a quiet but powerful turning point many high-achieving leaders face in midlife, when success no longer feels fulfilling. It names the real issue—not burnout, but misalignment between a leader’s outer accomplishments and inner values—and reframes it as a necessary recalibration rather than a crisis. Through reflection, values realignment, and intentional listening, leaders can reconnect with meaning, purpose, and a more authentic way of leading and living.

 

Bio:

Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition.

 

Quotes: 

True fulfillment begins when you pause to listen to your inner voice, not just your outer achievements. 

The greatest crisis we face in midlife is not failure but living a life out of alignment with who we truly are. 

Success without meaning will always leave you feeling restless and incomplete. 

When you dare to revisit your core values, you rediscover the energy and purpose that fuel your next chapter. 

Your next breakthrough starts when you ask what decision moves you closer to who you are becoming. 

 

Takeaways: 

External accomplishments alone cannot bring lasting fulfillment without inner alignment. 

Regular stillness and reflection are essential to connect with your true values and desires. 

Midlife is not a crisis, but a powerful opportunity for recalibration and growth. 

Simple daily questions and journaling can reveal the real story of who you are now. 

Realigning your life with your authentic self opens the door to deeper joy, meaning, and impact. 

 

Timestamps: 

0:00 The Hidden Question Behind Success 

0:02 Recognizing the Midlife Disconnect 

0:04 Discovering the Congruence Problem 

0:06 Practical Steps for Realignment 

0:08 The Power of the Daily Grounding Question 

0:10 Journaling Exercise and Final Call to Action 

 

Conclusion: 

True fulfillment starts when you stop chasing more and start tuning into what matters most within. The path to congruence is not about abandoning your achievements but about aligning them with your deepest values and desires. Remember, the discomfort you feel is really an invitation that serves as a wake-up call to a richer, more meaningful season of life. By embracing stillness, revisiting your core values, and asking powerful questions, you can chart a new course that feels genuinely right for you. Your next chapter is waiting, so are you ready to write it with purpose and passion? 

 

Links/Resources: 

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9fO2r_ZQ3wy5ie522f-DTQ  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/

Episode recap:

 

Subscribe to Marcel’s Substack here:  

https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/subscribe  

 

Marcel Schwantes opens Season 10 with gratitude and a renewed call for better leadership. He previews more solo episodes in 2026 and emphasizes that a leadership strategy only works when a leader’s character and inner operating system are solid. He reframes authentic leadership as humility, self-honesty, and service. Authenticity starts with self-awareness, supported by a weekly reflection: where you lived your values, where you drifted, and what triggered it. He links authentic leadership to well-being by urging leaders to remove friction, create clarity, support mental health, and help people connect to purpose—since burnout often stems from a loss of meaning, not just workload. 

 

Bio:

 

Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition. 

 

Quotes: 

"You become a far more effective leader the moment you stop performing leadership and start practicing it." 

"Authentic leadership always, always starts with self-honesty." 

"Humility is a performance enhancer, not just a personality trait." 

"Great leaders aren't afraid of holding up the mirror; they invite feedback and treat it like data, not judgment." 

"Real authentic leadership exists to meet real human needs." 

 

Takeaways: 

Authentic leadership begins with self-honesty and removing the mask. 

Humility allows leaders to learn, grow, and truly connect with others. 

Seeking and acting on feedback transforms workplace relationships. 

Meeting the real needs of people is at the heart of effective leadership. 

Redefining leadership with authenticity, humility, and service sets the stage for a thriving culture. 

 

Timestamps: 

00:00 Introduction & Podcast Purpose 

03:26 2026 Podcast Direction & New Year Focus 

06:00 Principles of Authentic Leadership 

08:30 Practical Implementation Tips 

14:45 Conclusion & Call to Action 

 

Conclusion: 

As we close out this episode, remember that real leadership begins with honesty, humility, and a genuine commitment to serving others. By embracing authenticity and staying true to your values, you create space for growth, trust, and lasting impact. Let this new year be your opportunity to lead with heart, listen deeply, and elevate the people around you. True change starts from within, and your leadership can set the tone for a better tomorrow. 

 

Links/Resources: 

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: hhttps://www.youtube.com/@MarcelSchwantes1 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/

Episode recap:

 

Subscribe to Marcel’s Substack here:  

https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/subscribe  

 

Marcel Schwantes opens Season 10 with gratitude and a renewed call for better leadership. He previews more solo episodes in 2026 and emphasizes that a leadership strategy only works when a leader’s character and inner operating system are solid. He reframes authentic leadership as humility, self-honesty, and service. Authenticity starts with self-awareness, supported by a weekly reflection: where you lived your values, where you drifted, and what triggered it. He links authentic leadership to well-being by urging leaders to remove friction, create clarity, support mental health, and help people connect to purpose—since burnout often stems from a loss of meaning, not just workload. 

 

BIO:

 

Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition. 

 

Quotes: 

"You become a far more effective leader the moment you stop performing leadership and start practicing it." 

"Authentic leadership always, always starts with self-honesty." 

"Humility is a performance enhancer, not just a personality trait." 

"Great leaders aren't afraid of holding up the mirror; they invite feedback and treat it like data, not judgment." 

"Real authentic leadership exists to meet real human needs." 

Takeaways: 

Authentic leadership begins with self-honesty and removing the mask. 

Humility allows leaders to learn, grow, and truly connect with others. 

Seeking and acting on feedback transforms workplace relationships. 

Meeting the real needs of people is at the heart of effective leadership. 

Redefining leadership with authenticity, humility, and service sets the stage for a thriving culture. 

Timestamps: 

0:00:03 — New Year’s Introduction 

0:02:00 — Rejecting Negative Leadership Practices 

0:05:00 — The Importance of Authenticity 

0:07:00 — Humility as a Performance Enhancer 

0:10:00 — Seeking and Acting on Feedback 

0:13:00 — Meeting Human Needs 

0:15:00 — Implementing Humane Leadership 

0:18:00 — Conclusion and Call to Action 

Conclusion: 

As we close out this episode, remember that real leadership begins with honesty, humility, and a genuine commitment to serving others. By embracing authenticity and staying true to your values, you create space for growth, trust, and lasting impact. Let this new year be your opportunity to lead with heart, listen deeply, and elevate the people around you. True change starts from within, and your leadership can set the tone for a better tomorrow. 

Links/Resources: 

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9fO2r_ZQ3wy5ie522f-DTQ  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/