Ep 826: From Fighter Jets to Tech CEO: Sara Blackmer’s Mission-Driven Playbook

Welcome to the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T. Podcast—where we believe in strength, resilience, and stories that inspire. I’m your host, Linda Mitchell, and today we’re joined by Stephanie Ramos, ABC News correspondent and decorated military veteran. Stephanie takes us inside the gripping season premiere of ABC’s 20/20, where decades-old DNA evidence cracked open the cold case murder of Leslie Pierre. With her fearless reporting, she shines a light not only on this case, but also on broader truths that remind us why justice matters. If you’ve ever been fascinated by true crime, investigative journalism, or stories of perseverance, you won’t want to miss this conversation. 🔗 Guest Links ABC News – Stephanie Ramos ABC’s 20/20 Episodes Instagram: @StephanieRamosABC Twitter/X: @StephanieRamos ✨ Main Themes How decades-old DNA cracked open the Leslie Pierre case. The behind-the-scenes process of reporting high-stakes investigations. Why true crime stories captivate and educate us. Stephanie’s perspective as both a journalist and military veteran. What we can expect from the new season of 20/20. How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud   "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T" Essential Formulas

From spinal paralysis to global healer, Dan Metcalfe’s story is one you’ll never forget. After surviving a catastrophic spinal injury and later a traumatic brain injury, Dan refused to accept a life of limitation. Instead, he pioneered the Total Balance Program—helping over 70,000 people worldwide reconnect their brain and body, break free from pain, and unlock their natural ability to heal. In this episode, Dan shares his unbelievable journey, the 7 Pillars of Natural Health, and how you can move from survival to thriving—no matter what you’ve been through. 🔗 Guest Links Total Balance Company: totalbalancecompany.com Born SuperHuman: bornsuperhuman.com Instagram: @dan_metcalfe 🌟 Main Themes from the Episode Surviving paralysis & traumatic brain injury—and defying medical odds. How the 7 Pillars of Natural Health unlock true healing. Why mindset and brain-body connection are the key to transformation. The emotional root of physical pain and how to break past health plateaus. Success stories from 70,000+ people worldwide using the Total Balance method. Moving from survival mode to thriving with purpose. What it means to live authentically and become “Born SuperHuman.”

On this week's motivation monday, we're discussing how to step into a place of authority in your life.

On this week's motivation monday, we're discussing how to step into a place of authority in your life.

Today, we’re joined by one of the most respected voices in American journalism—Pulitzer Prize winner Tim Weiner. You know him from his groundbreaking book Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA, which won the National Book Award and became the defining account of the Agency’s first 60 years. Now, Tim is back with THE MISSION: The CIA in the 21st Century—a riveting and urgent look at the CIA’s modern battles, from 9/11 to Russia, China, and the chaotic state of American intelligence today. Based on exclusive on-the-record interviews with top spymasters and undercover officers, THE MISSION is already a New York Times bestseller and one of the most talked-about books of 2025. Tim Weiner has appeared everywhere from Morning Joe to The New Yorker, and today he’s here to take us deep inside the world of secrets, power, and peril.

From maintaining fighter jets to leading billion-dollar innovations, Sara Blackmer has built her career on mission, discipline, and fearless leadership. A decorated U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel turned CEO, Managing Partner at Solyco Capital, and Senior Partner at FluidLogic, Sara has proven what’s possible in male-dominated industries like defense, tech, and venture capital. In this episode, she shares lessons on building high-performing cultures, scaling impact with purpose, and thriving as a woman in leadership where the odds aren’t always in your favor. 🔗 Guest Links Solyco Capital: solycocapital.com FluidLogic: fluidlogic.com LinkedIn: Sara Blackmer on LinkedIn 🌟 Main Themes from the Episode From the Air Force to tech: how service became Sara’s lifelong mission. Translating military discipline into boardroom leadership. Building cultures of excellence and trust under pressure. Turning setbacks into fuel for growth. How Solyco Capital’s operator-led model changes the game in investing. Scaling innovation at FluidLogic for athletes and tactical professionals. Thriving as a woman in male-dominated industries. Redefining success through service, impact, and vision. How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud   "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T" Essential Formulas

From a freak accident that left him with a stutter to earning the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent, comedian Drew Lynch has turned adversity into his superpower. With millions of fans worldwide, three hit comedy specials, and a thriving YouTube channel, Drew proves that laughter can heal and setbacks can become your stage. In this episode, he shares his story of resilience, authenticity, and finding your voice no matter the odds. 🌟 Main Themes from the Episode Turning setbacks into strengths: why Drew’s stutter became his superpower. The power of humor in healing and connecting with others. Behind the scenes of his America’s Got Talent Golden Buzzer journey. Building resilience and confidence through vulnerability. Balancing comedy with personal truth and storytelling. Creating authentic fan connections on YouTube, TikTok, and beyond. Why your voice — no matter how imperfect — deserves to be heard. 🔗 Guest Links Website: drewlynch.com YouTube: youtube.com/drewlynch TikTok: tiktok.com/@thedrewlynch Instagram: instagram.com/thedrewlynch Facebook: facebook.com/TheDrewLynch Twitter/X: x.com/thedrewlynch Comedy Specials: drewlynch.com/comedy-specials Tour Dates: drewlynch.com/tour How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud   "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T" Essential Formulas

On this week's Let It Rip Friday, Linda is sharing how the place your in might actually be preparing for something bigger. Hold on when things are hard.    How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud   "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T" Essential Formulas

This week on the Sisterhood of Sweat, Linda interviews Nicole Bowyer. She is the founder of COCO on the go, shares how a life-changing trip to Brazil inspired her mission to help women silence self-criticism and embrace confidence every single day. From building her brand with her mom to seeing her pieces featured on The Real Housewives of Orange County, Nicole’s story proves that confidence isn’t just about fashion—it’s a way of life.   Connect with Nicole: Website → cocoonthego.com Instagram → @cocoonthego TikTok → @cocoonthego Facebook → COCO on the go   How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud   "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T" Essential Formulas

Are you interested in committing to a goal?  Have you been struggling to get back to the gym? Then this is the episode for you to dive into. I talk with MK Stahl. She is a multi-location Fit Body Boot Camp owner, and Community Manager for the franchise. She is a mom, and a wife and is passionate about helping others live their best life on their own terms. She is an expert at balancing motherhood and business ownership. MK prides herself on helping others move outside of their comfort zone, at the gym, and in all areas of life! We discuss the balance of owning a business and being a mother. MK also shares her experiences helping people reach their goals. We really take some time to discuss consistency, motivation, accountability and how those factors work together for a successful life.   Questions I asked: ·      Can you tell us about yourself? ·      How do you manage everything in your life? ·      Can you tell us how you find the right people to help you? ·      Why is communication so important to a business? ·      Do you still teach classes? ·      Why is it so hard to keep a positive mindset? ·      How did you build your community culture? ·      How do you keep from being too salesy? ·      What daily habits do you have in business? ·      Did your husband leave FitBody Boot Camps? ·      What’s your favorite quote? ·      Where can people find you online?   Topics Discussed: ·      Balancing work and motherhood. ·      Finding support. ·      Accountability. ·      Consistency. ·      Starting a business.   Quotes from the show: ·      “Delegating has been my #1 focus right now.” Mary Katherine Stahl @SisterhoodSweat ·      “Have consistency in your schedule for team meetings every week.” Mary Katherine Stahl @SisterhoodSweat ·      “We have people leave it at the door when they come to the studio.” Mary Katherine Stahl @SisterhoodSweat ·      “We’re known for the level of accountability we give to our members.” Mary Katherine Stahl @SisterhoodSweat   How you can stay in touch with MK: ·       Website ·       Twitter ·       Facebook ·       Instagram ·       LinkedIn   How you can stay in touch with Linda: Website Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest YouTube SoundCloud   "Proud Sponsors of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T" Essential Formulas