For over twenty years, I've been the go-to expert for companies facing big changes. Whether it’s navigating the wild ride of massive growth, smoothing over leadership transitions, incorporating health and wellness in a company’s culture, or adapting to the new normal of hybrid workplaces, my expertise makes sure your organization not only survives these challenges but thrives, emerging stronger and more unified.
My mission is to guide organizations and leaders to cultivate healthy cultures that spark growth and nurture employee well-being. The essence of my approach lies not in elusive technologies or complex processes, but in a simple truth: genuine transformation stems from making every individual feel seen, understood, and integral to the collective vision.
From navigating the challenges of young motherhood to health setbacks, starting my career as a working mother, and surviving professional burnout, I've faced my fair share of hurdles. But here's the kicker—each obstacle taught me something valuable about resilience and the importance of prioritizing well-being in the workplace.
With almost two decades of expertise in workplace transformation, I bring a deep understanding of people, process, and workplace ethos. As a workplace change agent I bring a unique blend of personal experience and professional know-how to the table. My approach is all about enhancing workplace wellness, breaking down communication barriers, and preparing teams for whatever changes come their way.
By prioritizing employee health and happiness, my programs enhance productivity, engagement, and overall corporate wellness. And the best part? They're adaptable to fit the diverse needs of different workplace environments.
Earned my Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Strayer University
Diagnosed with heart disease, the first sign of what burnout was doing to my body
Diagnosed with MS, another health wake-up call
Completed 12 capital improvement projects and 3 major relocations for the Aspen Institute, with combined budgets of over $25M
Experienced a personal transformation, losing 60 pounds through diet and exercise
Made the decision to leave the burnout lifestyle and develop the Stress Less Method
Started to receive multiple invitations to be a public speaker and podcast guest on the topic of the modern workplace ethos, for organizations like CoreNet, IFMA, and more
Got divorced and ventured into single parenthood
Named a 40 Under 40 by the International Facilities Management Association (IFMA)
Became a Certified Wellness Practitioner
Led Talent and Employee Experience at the Aspen Institute
Invited to join the President’s Distinguished Alumni Council at Strayer University
Developed the first Hybrid Workplace Framework for Earthjustice
Created the first of its kind framework supporting the modern-day hybrid workforce
Let’s face it: It takes a lot of energy to feel like you have your life under control. For me, balancing hybrid work, motherhood, friendships, staying healthy, and everything else would be tough–or near impossible–if I just let it happen naturally. That’s why I had to implement some guidelines for myself to ensure I feel, work, and perform at my best.
Disclaimer: Does every day look like this? No way (because life happens and failure is healthy)! I am also about progress over perfection, always striving to do my best, grow, and move forward so that I am constantly evolving.
I enjoyed working with Sarah Sims to develop a 2023 discussion on workplace discrimination in the built environment. Sarah partnered with my team in the development and delivery of the session and made the process extremely seamless. Their expertise and ability to create an open, inclusive atmosphere were instrumental in the success of our session.
Sarah demonstrated exceptional skills in guiding our team through complex and sensitive topics. She provided insightful perspectives, facilitated meaningful conversations, and helped us develop actionable strategies to foster a more inclusive workplace.
I highly recommend Sarah for any organization seeking to address workspace issues. Their professionalism, knowledge, and empathetic approach make them invaluable to any team.
-James Derousselle
National Board for Teaching Standards
I reached out to Sarah Sims to help me find balance between my entrepreneurial ventures and personal life. Working with Sarah, I quickly realized that achieving balance in my personal life required first putting some key structures in place within my businesses. Together, Sarah and I identified numerous obstacles that were hindering my business success—many of which I hadn’t even been aware of. We methodically reviewed each issue, developing best practices to address them all.
One of my biggest challenges was hiring staff to support the business. With Sarah’s help, using innovative tools, I gained a better understanding of my own strengths and weaknesses as a leader. The insights I gained on my coaching and consultation journey with Sarah has been invaluable for the growth and development of my business and managing my wellbeing. I will continue to implement the best practices I've learned with the support of Sarah and her numerous insights.
-Erika McCullough-Williams
Beyond Success Network
During the height of the pandemic, Sarah moderated a panel discussion about the impact the ‘Great Recession’ had on the corporate real estate/facilities management labor market. Cultivating connection between the audience and HR thought leaders on the panel allowed Sarah to activate her exceptional communication skills. During the hour long dialogue she was able to elevate a variety of perspectives, and thoughtfully explore innovative solutions through a compassionate leadership lense.
Sarah’s experience taking on complex issues facing the facility management/corporate real estate industry in today’s environment made for a rich discussion. She went beyond the obvious surface issues and probed to create a solution-oriented conversation.
-Sheryl Etelson
CoreNet Global-Mid Atlantic Chapter
Stress Less is an all too relatable story of a woman who is forced by a serious medical diagnosis to reevaluate her life, prioritize her health and make some significant lifestyle changes. Its author, Sarah Sims, is no stranger to these challenges and it shows - her compelling introduction is written from the heart and shows that the story is written from a place of raw experience.
The book shows the importance of taking the time to reflect and be clear on the boundaries we need to set, being proactive in asking for what we need to make her working life sustainable and healthy, and takes the approach into both work and family life to make it more sustainable and effective. Sims gives us a way forward that is practical, gentle, forgiving, nourishing and inspiring.
-Kate Wendelboe
Health and Wellness Coach
A 15-minute strategy session with me could be the key to unlocking your team's potential.