Changemaker Interviews
The Art of Presence: Rob Salafia on Leadership, Transition, and Growth

Rob Salafia has spent his life mastering the art of presence—both on stage and in the boardroom. A former performing artist turned executive coach, he now helps top talent navigate the corporate world and develop authentic executive presence. As the CEO of Protagonist Consulting Group and a lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management, Rob brings a unique perspective to leadership development, blending theater methodologies with corporate training. In this interview, he shares insights on career transitions, leadership authenticity, and the evolving nature of executive coaching.
From the Stage to the Boardroom
Rob’s career has taken him across vastly different worlds. He spent 15 years in theater, traveling the globe as a tap dancer, wire walker, and storyteller. But at a pivotal moment, he transitioned from the performing arts into corporate training. This wasn’t just a career shift—it was a complete reinvention.
“I navigated two massive career transitions,” Rob shares. “It took deep self-reflection and the willingness to start over. But I was determined to take all of my skills and talents with me along the way.”
This mindset became the foundation of his work. Today, he helps professionals harness their strengths and show up as the best versions of themselves. “I help others bring the best parts of themselves and their personalities to their work,” he says. “To become genuine and authentic leaders that create environments where people and ideas can thrive.”
The Meaning of Resilience
For Rob, resilience isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life. Having been knocked down many times, he’s always found a way to get back up and move forward. His motivation? A quote from Picasso:
“The meaning of life is to discover your gifts. The purpose of life is to give them away (or put them to the best and highest use).”
“That’s what keeps me going,” he says. “I’ve faced setbacks, but my purpose remains the same—to help others grow, learn, and become better leaders.”
Adapting to Change in a Shifting Industry
The executive coaching landscape has changed significantly since Rob started, and he’s had to evolve with it. Before COVID, the majority of his work was in-person. Now, 90% of it is online. Instead of resisting the shift, he embraced it.
“I saw the change happening and adapted,” he explains. “Virtual learning actually solves a key problem—it helps sustain and reinforce new behaviors back in the workplace.”
His ability to pivot is a lesson in itself. Growth, both personal and professional, requires flexibility and an openness to change.
Creating Balance and Staying Grounded
Even in a fast-paced career, Rob prioritizes balance. His secret? Meditation and active energy work.
“I make these a part of my daily activities,” he says. “And I bring this awareness and these skills to everyone I work with.”
Self-care isn’t just personal for him—it’s woven into his coaching philosophy. Leaders who take care of themselves are better equipped to inspire and support others.
Breaking Through Limitations
One of the most rewarding parts of Rob’s work is witnessing transformation in others.
“Seeing someone break through their self-imposed limitations, learn, and grow—that’s the most fulfilling part of what I do,” he says.
Growth isn’t just about skills; it’s about shifting mindsets. Rob helps professionals step into their leadership potential by building confidence, refining their executive presence, and mastering the art of storytelling.
The Role of Inclusion in Leadership
Diversity and inclusion are at the core of his leadership philosophy.
“If we want to develop the best and most innovative ideas, we need to lean into differences,” he says. “That means creating a psychologically safe learning environment—one that is, by definition, inclusive.”
For Rob, leadership isn’t about fitting into a mold. It’s about embracing individuality and fostering spaces where diverse perspectives can thrive.
Looking Ahead
At 70 years old, Rob is as energized as ever. His goal over the next five years is to continue building his brand and broadening his client base—so that his business can eventually run itself or be sold.
“I love what I do,” he says. “And as long as I can keep helping people grow into their best selves, I’ll keep going.”
Rob’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention, resilience, and authenticity. From the theater stage to executive coaching, he’s taken every skill, every lesson, and every setback and turned them into something meaningful. And in doing so, he’s not just leading—he’s inspiring others to do the same.
Connect with Rob Salafia
- Website: www.protagonistconsulting.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/robsalafia
Changemaker Interviews
Launching Careers, One Story at a Time with John Goodwin

When you think about someone who has truly lived and breathed the world of publishing, John Goodwin stands out. With a career that spans nearly four decades, John has worn just about every hat in the industry. He’s not just a behind-the-scenes guy – he’s someone who believes deeply in the power of storytelling and the importance of giving writers and artists the opportunity to shine.
A Publishing Career Rooted in Purpose
John began his journey in publishing in 1986, initially working to bring all the works of bestselling author L. Ron Hubbard to readers. Then in 2002, he shifted his focus to Hubbard’s fiction, which led him to take the reins on something very special: the Writers of the Future anthology.
This contest and publication, now in its 41st year, has become a beacon for emerging writers and illustrators around the globe. Under John’s leadership, Writers of the Future has grown from just 600 entries in its first year to thousands each quarter, coming in from over 175 countries.
For John, this growth is more than impressive numbers – it’s a reflection of how powerful encouragement can be when it’s paired with opportunity.
Creating a Platform That Launches Careers
At the core of the Writers of the Future contest is a mission to uplift. “Providing that launching pad for a dozen writers and a dozen artists every year,” John says, “and an opportunity for thousands more to have an outlet to share and encourage creativity with nothing but encouragement” – that’s what drives him.
The integrity of the contest matters. And because of that commitment, winners now come from 50 different countries. “It is always a treat to add a new country to the list,” he shares with pride.
Extending the Vision Through Podcasting
In 2019, John expanded the reach of the contest through the launch of the Writers and Illustrators of the Future Podcast. Now in its fifth year, the podcast has over 320 episodes and regularly sees over 2 million listens per episode. His next goal? Reaching 3 million.
The podcast features the personal journeys of well-known writers and artists who started from humble beginnings. It’s become a meaningful source of inspiration for creatives around the world – offering honest, motivating stories that prove success is possible with talent, persistence, and a little bit of guidance.
Serving the Creative Community Beyond Publishing
John’s dedication to creativity and community doesn’t stop at publishing. He currently serves as a Board member for the Friends of Hollywood Central Park, an initiative that’s turning a bold idea into reality by creating a 38-acre park over the Hollywood Freeway. He’s also the President of the Hollywood Christmas Parade, bringing joy and tradition to the heart of the city.
His past roles include board memberships with the Audio Publishers Association and the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce – clear signs of his lasting impact on the broader entertainment and publishing industries.
A Champion for Writers, Artists, and Dreamers
John Goodwin isn’t just in publishing – he lives for it. His work with Galaxy Press, Writers of the Future, and the podcast all reflect a deeper mission: to open doors for creatives and help them believe in their voice.
His legacy isn’t only built on books or podcasts. It’s built on every writer who finally felt seen, every artist who gained the confidence to keep going, and every listener who was reminded that big dreams often begin with small steps.
With thousands inspired and millions listening, John is still reaching for more – always looking ahead to what’s possible, and always ready to welcome one more story into the fold.
Connect with John Goodwin
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnGoodwinASI
- Website: www.GalaxyPress.com
- Website: www.WritersoftheFuture.com
Changemaker Interviews
Dr. Allison Snyder Is Delivering More Than Healthcare

When you talk to Dr. Allison Snyder, it’s clear that medicine is more than a profession for her — it’s personal. Born and raised in Arizona, Allison grew up surrounded by the world of women’s health. Her father, a respected ObGyn with 40 years of experience, taught her not only time-tested clinical techniques but also the lost art of connecting with patients. Now, with more than a decade of her own experience, she’s on a mission to change the way healthcare reaches women in rural America.
Her story is featured as part of our 2025 Women Leading the Way Changemaker Interview Series, a written collection of powerful conversations with women driving change in their fields.
A Journey Rooted in Family and Purpose
Allison’s story begins in Scottsdale, Arizona, where she started her medical career alongside her father in a busy private practice. From medical school in Missouri to training in Phoenix, she always knew she was stepping into a field that required resilience and heart. But as the years went on, she noticed a troubling shift — more paperwork, more barriers, and less time for what mattered most: patient care.
It became clear that the traditional system wasn’t sustainable — not for her, not for her family, and certainly not for the communities falling through the cracks. So, she took a leap.
Building a Business with Heart
Leaving a stable, well-paying W2 job was terrifying. As the sole income for her household, Allison had every reason to stay in the system. But what she saw around her pushed her to think differently.
“I found that the administrative burdens, blurring of work/life balance, and barriers to delivering high quality healthcare to my patients were too great,” she shared. With her husband’s support and guidance from a trusted mentor, she launched her own business, Dr. Allison Snyder Delivers, LLC, and started working as a traveling ObGyn, bringing care to the places that needed it most.
Meeting a Growing Crisis Head-On
Allison’s work brings her to rural communities across the West Coast, from Oregon to Arizona. These areas are often caught in what she calls “healthcare deserts,” especially when it comes to women’s health. With fewer providers, rising burnout, and increased political pressure, some communities are left with little to no access to obstetric or gynecologic care.
But Allison is determined to change that. Her role as a Locum Tenens physician allows her to offer high-quality care where it’s needed most while also helping to ease the burden on overworked local providers. And her message to other doctors is simple but powerful: know your worth.
Challenging the Status Quo in Medicine
Contract work in medicine isn’t new but Allison is pushing for a better way to do it. Traditionally, staffing agencies take a massive cut, overcharging hospitals and underpaying physicians. She’s working to cut out the middlemen, encouraging doctors to contract directly with hospitals. The goal? Lower costs for patients, higher pay for physicians, and better care across the board.
“I hope to recruit other physicians to work outside this system,” she says. “It will bring down costs for the hospitals and patients, and pay physicians directly and fairly for the work they are doing.”
Leading by Example
Allison’s decision to move into independent practice didn’t just give her more control — it gave her back her time. “Traveling work finally allows me to draw a clear line: when I am at work, I can give 100% of myself to my patients. And when I’m home, no work can call me away.”
That separation has made all the difference. With a spectacular family of five and a home on the Oregon Coast, she now spends her off days running, whale watching, reading, and camping fully present with her loved ones and in awe of the natural beauty around her.
A Call to Courage and Community
For new physicians, Allison offers this advice: believe in yourself. It’s not easy to walk away from the traditional system, but the rewards — autonomy, balance, impact — are worth it. “The value of controlling your destiny in medicine, your own schedule, your own income, is immeasurable.”
And she’s not doing it alone. Allison is part of a growing online community of women in medicine fighting for equal pay and sustainable careers. Together, they’re moving the needle — demanding more transparency, less bureaucracy, and better care for all.
Connect with Dr. Allison Snyder
- Website: drallisonsnyderdelivers.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-snyder-md/
- Email: snyder.allison@gmail.com
Changemaker Interviews
Anthony Lane’s Journey from Military Service to Transformational Coaching

For many, stepping away from a stable career into the unknown is terrifying. For Anthony Lane, it was the only path forward. After serving 22 years in the U.S. Navy, he faced a personal crossroads: stay within the security of a government career or take a leap into entrepreneurship. He chose the leap.
Now, as the founder of Connecting Lane, LLC, Anthony is on a mission to help others break through their own limitations and design lives filled with purpose, clarity, and confidence. But this journey wasn’t without its challenges.
From Military Service to Coaching
Anthony’s years in the Navy weren’t just about serving his country—they were about learning resilience, leadership, and adaptability. Over time, he realized that his greatest fulfillment came from mentoring and guiding fellow service members. When it was time to transition to civilian life, he experienced firsthand the struggles that come with redefining one’s identity outside of a structured environment. That experience fueled his passion for transformational coaching.
“I knew there were so many people out there—veterans, professionals, individuals feeling stuck—who needed guidance in rediscovering their purpose,” Anthony shares. “I wanted to be the one to help them navigate that journey.”
Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship
Leaving a stable government position to start his own business wasn’t an easy decision. Friends and family questioned his choice, warning of financial risks and uncertainty. But Anthony trusted his intuition. He invested in personal growth, built a strong support network, and leaned into meditation, self-reflection, and continuous learning to stay on course.
His coaching philosophy centers on emotional mastery, mindset transformation, and strategic action. By helping clients break free from limiting beliefs, he empowers them to step into their full potential—whether they’re facing career transitions, personal struggles, or the challenge of simply feeling stuck.
A Vision for Impact
Through Connecting Lane, LLC, Anthony works with ambitious professionals—particularly women—who feel overwhelmed or lost. His coaching approach blends mindset strategies with real-world tools to help clients gain confidence, resilience, and direction. And he’s not stopping there.
Looking ahead to 2025, Anthony has bold goals:
- Help 500 individuals through his coaching programs
- Develop a life blueprint tool for personal transformation
- Expand into digital courses, group coaching, and immersive experiences using VR and AI
His vision? A global coaching brand that fosters personal growth, transformation, and emotional mastery.
More Than a Coach
Beyond his coaching business, Anthony is also a male model with Runway for a Cure DC, where he participates under Zaddies for a Cause to raise awareness and funds for cancer research. His commitment to service extends beyond personal coaching—it’s about making an impact wherever he can.
“I want to create a ripple effect,” Anthony says. “If I can help someone transform their life, they’ll go on to inspire others. That’s how real change happens.”
With his background in leadership, his unwavering dedication, and his heart for helping others, Anthony Lane isn’t just building a coaching business—he’s building a movement.
Connect with Anthony Lane
- Website: https://connectinglanellc.now.site/home
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/anthonylane3
-
Career Advice4 months ago
Interview with Dr. Kristy K. Taylor, WORxK Global News Magazine Founder
-
Diversity and Inclusion (DEIA)4 months ago
Sarah Herrlinger Talks AirPods Pro Hearing Aid
-
Career Advice4 months ago
NetWork Your Way to Success: Top Tips for Maximizing Your Professional Network
-
Changemaker Interviews3 months ago
Unlocking Human Potential: Kim Groshek’s Journey to Transforming Leadership and Stress Resilience
-
Diversity and Inclusion (DEIA)4 months ago
The Power of Belonging: Why Feeling Accepted Matters in the Workplace
-
Global Trends and Politics4 months ago
Health-care stocks fall after Warren PBM bill, Brian Thompson shooting
-
Global Trends and Politics4 months ago
Unionization Goes Mainstream: How the Changing Workforce is Driving Demand for Collective Bargaining
-
Training and Development4 months ago
Level Up: How Upskilling Can Help You Stay Ahead of the Curve in a Rapidly Changing Industry