Sara Roy’s entrepreneurial journey with The Entrepreneur’s Source® (TES) is a testament to the power of vision, mentorship, and determination. This year, she was honored with the Rising Star Award at the TES annual conference—a significant milestone that highlights her incredible progress since embarking on her coaching career.
A Vision for Success
When Sara attended her first TES conference, she had just completed her training and was standing at the starting line of her coaching journey. Surrounded by experienced coaches and peers, she vividly remembers looking at the list of award recipients and telling herself, “That will be me someday.” Inspired by the possibilities that TES offered, she cut out that list from the conference agenda, laminated it and pinned it on her vision board above her desk so she could see it every day. And she continues to do this each year!
“That first conference helped me see what was possible,” Sara shared. “It gave me something to strive for. Seeing those award winners up on stage was incredibly inspiring.”
Little did she know that just two years later, she would be celebrating, not her first, but her second major award within the TES system.
Mentorship and Goal Setting: Keys to Success
Sara attributes much of her success to mentorship and setting clear, ambitious goals. Early in her journey, she sought out guidance from seasoned TES coaches—some of whom were past award recipients. She absorbed their wisdom, learned about their strategies, and implemented best practices that aligned with her values and business approach. It is this alignment and her commitment to authenticity that have been key components to Sara’s success.
“New coaches sometimes replicate what other coaches are doing, and it doesn’t work for them—it’s not natural for them,” Sara explains, “I think I was good about identifying only the best practices that stayed true to who I am and not implement everything other coaches were doing. I was willing to try new stuff, but not willing to change who I am.”
She goes on to say, “I believe it’s so important to surround yourself with those who are further along than you. Mentorship has been a huge part of my journey. I am very appreciative to those who reached out and mentored me. It meant so much to me. In return I’m doing the same because I know how important it is to give back and offer that lifeline of support to others.”
Her emphasis on mentorship is just one way Sara exemplifies the TES spirit: in business for yourself, but not by yourself.
The Meaning of the Rising Star Award
For Sara, winning the Rising Star Award represents more than just professional recognition. It’s the culmination of years of hard work, growth, and perseverance.
“This award means a lot to me because it was a goal I set for myself early on,” she said. “But more than that, it’s so special to be recognized among my peer coaches. At TES, we celebrate each other’s successes, and this award is a reminder that we’re all part of a supportive community.”
The award also signifies an exciting new chapter in Sara’s business. Having focused heavily on building her foundation in the early stages, she now plans to focus on cultivating the relationships and opportunities she has already established. “I want to reconnect with past clients who have previously concluded their coaching experience,” Sara shares. “I’m also focused on nurturing my network of business partnerships, with the goal of re-engaging past clients and increasing client referrals—especially since referrals often progress toward business ownership at a higher rate.”
A Journey of Transformation
Before joining TES, Sara spent over 20 years in corporate America, building expertise in consulting, process improvement, program management, and strategic planning. Despite her impressive credentials, including an MBA and certifications like a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and the completion of multiple Executive level Leadership Development programs, she found herself trapped in a cycle of lateral moves with little opportunity for growth.
After a period of deep self-reflection and a growing desire to break free from the corporate grind, Sara realized she wanted more control over her career and her life. TES offered her that opportunity.
“The TES model really clicked for me because while I didn’t have a business concept, my project management skillset and mentality made me confident that I could execute and operationalize almost anything,” she explained. “The freedom to work remotely and grow my business on my own terms was exactly what I was looking for. Most importantly though, I am able to coach clients who are going through similar situations I went through and bring them hope for something greater.”
Building a Life by Design
Since becoming a Career Ownership Coach®, Sara has not only transformed her career but also her lifestyle. She now enjoys the flexibility to work around her family and personal commitments, choosing how and when she works.
“I love that I’m in control of my career and my day-to-day schedule,” she said. “I feel empowered and passionate about what I do, knowing that I’m helping clients explore entrepreneurship in a safe, guided environment.”
Her hard work paid off early on, with her first franchise placement just two weeks after completing Phase 2 training. Over time, she’s developed her skills in time management, networking, and handling objections—all challenges she overcame to build a thriving business.
Looking to the Future
For Sara, the future holds limitless possibilities. Her primary focus remains on growing her business and helping more clients realize their dreams of business ownership.
“The possibilities are endless” she said. “I want to continue building my business and helping clients achieve self-sufficiency. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of their journey and to see the transformations they go through.”
Sara also plans to further nurture the relationships she’s built and leverage the seeds she planted in her early years. She’s committed to making a lasting impact within TES and beyond, empowering others to create the lives they’ve always envisioned.
A Rising Star’s Legacy
Sara’s journey from a first-time TES conference attendee to a Rising Star Award recipient is a shining example of what’s possible with hard work, a clear vision, and a strong support network. She has proven that with the right mindset and resources, anyone can achieve their dreams—and inspire others to do the same.
As Sara continues to reach new heights, she remains a beacon of encouragement for aspiring female entrepreneurs through her support of women’s networking organizations both national and local and through in-person and virtual speaking engagements. “I hope to remind them to stay focused on their goals and lean into the support of their community.”
“When you feel yourself focusing on your fears, always step back and analyze the positive side – look at both perspectives,” she advises. “What if I fail? Yes, that’s a possibility. But what if you succeed? Or what if you do nothing at all? Ultimately, you’ll never know what you’re capable of or what’s possible unless you take the first step and try.”
With her sights set on even greater achievements, Sara Roy is not just a Rising Star—she’s a leader whose light will continue to guide others for years to come.
