Elevator No. 207: Kayla Schreibstein is a seasoned tech sales pro turned community-builder, storyteller, and host of the podcast Friends of Kayla. Beyond her 9 to 5, she’s redefining success through intimate Shabbat dinners, cultural conversations, and passion projects that center around identity and connection.

In this conversation, Kayla shares how embracing her Jewish identity and protecting her peace led to deeper purpose. She opens up about navigating side hustles, setting boundaries, and creating spaces for authenticity, reminding us that fulfillment doesn’t come from doing it all, it comes from doing what matters most.

Chapters

02:41
The Journey of Side Hustles

06:27
The Impact of Networking and Influencers

12:50
The Birth of Friends of Kayla

18:20
Embracing Identity and Purpose

23:14
Defining Success in Podcasting

25:54
Cultural Exchange Through Shabbat Dinners

28:20
The Importance of Welcoming Judaism

30:39
Challenging Anti-Semitism and Embracing Identity

33:42
Future Aspirations for Friends of Kayla

36:37
Rapid Fire Questions and Kayla's Mental Motto

Parker and Sam unpack the reality of loneliness in today’s hyper-connected world. They share personal experiences and coping strategies, emphasizing that feeling isolated doesn’t mean something is wrong with you...it’s part of being human.

Elevator No. 204: Richie Frieman is a best-selling author, illustrator, entrepreneur, and former professional wrestler dubbed a "Modern-Day Renaissance Man." His latest memoir, The Optimistics, highlights powerful love stories within the dementia community and showcases his lifelong commitment to resilience and creativity.

In this conversation, Richie shares how trying, failing, and leading with vulnerability have shaped his life, from the wrestling ring to the writing desk. Parker and Sam talk with Richie about lessons on mental fortitude, storytelling, battling stigma, and why building meaningful human connections is more important now than ever.

03:01
The Journey of a Professional Trier

06:14
The Art of Trying: Overcoming Challenges

09:08
Writing for Purpose: Balancing Art and Business

11:48
The Impact of Alzheimer's: Personal Stories and Insights

28:24
Embracing Vulnerability and Real Conversations

30:29
The Importance of Mental Fortitude

40:54
Food and Community in Baltimore

41:52
Book Recommendations and Inspirations

44:25
Richie's Mental Motto