Climb Your Everest

Pamela is a mom of three boys and a military spouse. Born and raised in Moncton, Canada, Pamela is an entrepreneur, nonprofit founder, skincare developer, magazine and event creator, podcaster, cleft lip warrior, and athlete. Pamela is an ambassador for Smile Train. Transitioning and pivoting is no feat for Pamela, before marrying her US Air Force pilot, she resided in Kuwait for a decade. As one of the few Canadians who remained in Kuwait after the evacuation amidst operation Iraqi Freedom, Pamela built shelter in home where she would seek refuge with her then one-year-old baby. Pamela has the ability to handle tough situations and uses her strength to empower women. Pamela began her quest for empowering women in 2018.  It has since branched into a global effort to shine a bright light on the extraordinary women of the world! 

As the visionary founder of Heart Mind Tuning, Kathy champions heart-centered leadership, positivity, and mindfulness. With 15 years of leadership experience as a Tech Executive for Fortune 100 & 500 companies, she brings profound insights into corporate dynamics that can help leaders level up quickly and joyfully.

Monisha Patel, a dedicated dental hygienist with 24 years of experience who has discovered the true potential of helping others beyond the clinical setting. Monisha is passionate about empowering individuals and always strives to see the best in everyone she meets. In 2024, she completed her Bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene while working full-time and taking online courses, showcasing her commitment to lifelong learning. Monisha's adventurous spirit led her to climb to Everest Base Camp in 2021, where she empowered Nepali girls, and she has been actively involved in various mountain climbs since 2016. She participated in a dental mission with the Smiles For Life foundation in 2013, aiding villages in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. As a single mom from 2009 to 2020, she has successfully raised an 18-year-old daughter who will be studying psychology at Cal Poly Pomona in the fall. Monisha's journey, which began with a traditional arranged marriage at 17, has fueled her passion for education, and she plans to obtain a Master's in Public Health to transform dental hygiene education for a more culturally competent future. Currently, she enjoys solo camping trips and shares the healing power of nature with her daughter. Monisha's inspiring story and dedication to making a difference make her a remarkable individual.

Alyssa Theis serves as the Secretary of Climb Your Everest. Born and raised in Southern California, she holds a Master's degree in Counseling from California State University, Fullerton. Alyssa works as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and is the Clinical Director of a group practice in San Diego. Alyssa enjoys supporting the perinatal population in therapy, assisting those who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or in the postpartum period with balancing parenthood and the management of their own mental health needs.  Her journey towards working with Climb Your Everest began in 2015 when she volunteered with Empower Nepali Girls, traveling to Nepal to support Nepali women and girls in their pursuit of education. It was there that she met Dr. Sara Safari. Since then, Alyssa has been an integral part of Climb Your Everest's mission, contributing her skills and compassion to the cause. Beyond her professional life, Alyssa finds joy in staying active and spending time outdoors with her husband and two daughters. Whether it's playing soccer on the weekends, hiking, climbing, or camping, she cherishes the opportunity to connect with nature and her family.

Mr. Grimes has more than 15 years of total legal experience and has been named to the Super Lawyers list for multiple years, both as a Rising Star and a top-rated entertainment and sports lawyer for Santa Monica. The Super Lawyers distinction is limited to less than 5% of all lawyers nationwide. Over the course of his practice, he has achieved significant success assisting his clients with matters in contract negotiation, drafting and enforcement, litigation, in both intellectual and real property disputes, and other legal matters.

Growing up the eldest of 8 children, Ginhee had planned to be a professional ballet dancer. Life took an unexpected turn of events when she became guardian of her younger brothers and sisters nearly overnight, and out of the need to care for them, Young Art was born. This humble growth journey of entrepreneurship has taught courage in the face of adversity, grit, anti-fragility, and resilience, through learning to bounce back from challenges faster. With her siblings nearly grown, Ginhee is dedicating her future in service to girls and young women in the developing world. Firstly, to provide financial self-sufficiency through meaningful employment that paves the way for their economically independent future. Secondly, to be an advocate for social justice, emboldening girls and women to use their voice to speak truth and stand in light as they take bold steps forward in pursuit of their brightest future.

As a licensed psychologist, Ph. D, and leader in the nonprofit  sector addressing mental health and wellness for children, youth and their families Dr. Lorry has been a driving force behind the implementation of various evidence-based practices and strategies for buffering the impact of trauma and the effects of the toxic stress response, as well as building resilience. Dr. Lorry was an early adopter of the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) framework in her local community, which she continues to use as a context for understanding and addressing mental health needs. She has been recognized as a subject matter expert and is frequently sought out for speaking engagements and training on the topics of building resilience,  ACEs and trauma-informed care, as well as finding your purpose.

Dr. Kelly L. Cerialo is an Associate Professor in Business and Hospitality Management and Program Coordinator for the Communication and Hospitality Departments at Paul Smith's College. She holds a PhD in Leadership and Change Program from Antioch University.  She is the former Director for Paul Smith's College Global Center for Rural Communities and current Co-chair of the UNESCO Champlain-Adirondack Biosphere Reserve.  Kelly is a steering committee member for the U.S. UNESCO Biosphere Network and co-founder/focal point for the U.S. Biosphere Reserve Youth Network.  She also co-founded the Adirondack and Appeninno Sustainable Parks and Communities Project – an international study abroad partnership between the UNESCO Tuscan Emilian Apennine Biosphere Reserve, the Champlain-Adirondack Biosphere Reserve (NY/VT) and the Ledro Alps and Judicaria Biosphere Reserve (Italy) that focuses on promoting sustainable development and sustainable tourism in protected landscapes.  Throughout her work, Kelly focuses on youth leadership development and empowering women through education and professional development opportunities.

Ryan Thomas Neace holds a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, and has a comprehensive background in mental health, entrepreneurialism, and education that spans several states and over 20 years. He is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the State of Missouri, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the state of California. He also holds the most advanced credential offered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) as a Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC). Ryan is the Founder of Change, Inc., a psychotherapy practice in St. Louis, Missouri, which he opened in August of 2013 with no employees, 3 empty offices, and the couch from his basement. True story! In the years which have passed since, Change, Inc. has around 20- staff and is now conducting over 1200 sessions per month. In July of 2019, Ryan announced his plans to take an indefinite sabbatical from his full counseling caseload to focus full-time on his role as CEO at Change, Inc., a move he executed upon fully by June of 2020. In that role, it's his job to make major company decisions, manage overall operations and resources, and act as the organization's main source of global vision and development.

Parisa is a maxillofacial surgeon in the UK. She was born and raised in Iran, later moving to the UK for education and work. As a young woman, she grew up in a society that limited development opportunities for women and she became passionate about pushing boundaries in every aspect of her life. She now mentors female surgeons in training, working with them in reaching their potential and having more confidence in the workplace and home. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking and cycling and recently became a yoga instructor, a practice she has committed to for the past 14 years. Parisa is an advocate for providing women with opportunities to thrive and creating environments where they can be their authentic selves.

This episode is dedicated to Q&A with sara! If you have more questions, please post them and we will answer them through another episode! As we draw the curtains on the inaugural season of Climb Your Everest, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to all our incredible listeners, and the dedicated team behind the scenes. This season has been a tapestry of inspiring stories, insightful conversations, and a celebration of the human spirit. To you, our cherished listeners, thank you for being a vital part of this community. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm have propelled us forward, making CYE not just a podcast but a shared space for inspiration and advocacy. Behind the scenes, Avi has worked tirelessly to bring these stories to life. Her commitment has been the driving force behind the success of this season. As we reflect on the past episodes, we invite you, our listeners to share your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions with us. Who would you like to hear from in our upcoming season? What aspects of our nonprofit organization, CYE, would you like us to delve deeper into? Connect with us on social media, send us an email, or visit our website to share your insights. Your input will be the guiding light for our upcoming season, and we are eager to create content that resonates with you. Beyond the podcast, remember that the mission continues. Explore ways to get involved or make a contribution to CYE through our website. Your support is integral to the positive impact we aim to create. As we bid farewell to season one, we look forward to bringing you more stories, inspiration, and advocacy in season two. Subscribe, follow, and stay connected for updates on our upcoming season. Thank you for being a part of CYE. Until next time, take care, be kind, and keep making a positive impact.

In this episode, we journey back a decade to the very beginning of CYE's birth and Sara's mission and the profound inspiration behind it. We revisit the unforgettable moment when we first met the incredible girls who have since grown into the heart and soul of our organization. Discover what drove us to return to Nepal eleven times, forging lasting bonds through shared Bollywood songs, and experiencing moments of pure joy during car rides. We'll also recount the heartwarming reception at Rising Rays School and the profound responsibility we felt, knowing that these children's lives depended on our foundation's support. Join us as we reflect on our journey, and look ahead to future adventures, including mountain climbing and empowering more women in Nepal.

In this episode, we are excited to shine a light on the remarkable stories of girls who have shown incredible resilience and strength in the face of daunting challenges. Join us as we delve into their inspiring journeys and the pivotal role that education and empowerment play in transforming the lives of girls globally. We kick off by revisiting a poignant moment when we discussed returning to the majestic Mt. Everest, where fears were confronted, and past memories resurfaced. Today, our focus shifts towards the heartwarming and often heart-wrenching stories of young girls and the obstacles they bravely navigate. While we center our discussion on the Nepali context, we acknowledge that the issues girls face extend far beyond borders. One pressing concern we address is the alarming prevalence of human trafficking, affecting vulnerable Nepali women and girls. Together, we explore the importance of spreading awareness, advocating for change, and fostering a supportive network dedicated to safeguarding and empowering these women. In countless communities worldwide, girls grapple with an array of challenges that hinder their progress, from poverty and gender inequality to entrenched cultural barriers and pervasive social prejudices. Our mission is clear: break the cycle of poverty, broaden horizons, and empower girls to unleash their full potential. Our overarching goal is to provide equal opportunities for girls, bridging the gap and leveling the playing field. We delve into initiatives ranging from scholarships and mentorship programs to skill development workshops and advocacy campaigns, all of which play pivotal roles in uplifting and empowering girls. Join us as we celebrate the strength and determination of these young trailblazers, explore the multifaceted issues they face, and illuminate pathways toward a more equitable and empowering future for girls everywhere. Together, we can make a difference and amplify the voices of those who are working tirelessly to empower the next generation of women leaders.

In this heart-pounding episode, we embark on a thrilling journey into the world of mountain climbing, exploring the awe-inspiring tales of Sara who conquer peaks through the power of teamwork. Dr. Safari reveals the vital role that collaboration plays in mountaineering, from surviving treacherous conditions to achieving seemingly impossible summits. Listen as we dive deep into the mountains, uncovering stories of climbers who rely on each other in life-or-death scenarios, transforming dire situations into miraculous rescues. Discover how teamwork forms the backbone of every expedition, uniting climbers as they push their limits, shatter barriers, and achieve greatness. Through riveting narratives and insights from Dr. Safari, this episode showcases the indomitable spirit of collaboration in mountain climbing, where trust, communication, and unity are the keys to unlocking incredible adventures high above the clouds. Tune in to “CYE” and get ready to be inspired by the breathtaking world of mountaineering and the unbreakable bonds formed on the world's highest peaks.

In this captivating episode of "Climb Your Everest," we embark on an introspective voyage to explore the profound reflections and transformative experiences that climbing expeditions offer. Join us as we delve into the world of climbing and how it serves as a unique platform for contemplation, self-discovery, and a reevaluation of life's priorities. Episode Description: Life's most meaningful insights often emerge in the midst of nature's untouched landscapes, and climbing expeditions provide the perfect canvas for these revelations. We dive deep into the thought-provoking realm of mountaineering, where climbers find themselves immersed in solitude, far from the noise and distractions of the everyday hustle. Through candid discussions and personal anecdotes, we uncover the hidden gems of introspection that climbers uncover during their journeys. We unravel the stories of Dr. Sara Safari who have scaled towering peaks, discovering how the sheer simplicity of the climbing environment can prompt a profound reconsideration of life's values and goals. In this episode, we shine a light on the powerful contrast between the serenity of nature and the chaos of our daily lives. We examine how the act of ascending mountains not only challenges the body but also frees the mind, creating space for mindfulness and reflection on relationships, ambitions, and the things that truly matter. We explore the positive influence that the natural world exerts on mental and emotional well-being. We delve into the therapeutic effects of nature, including stress reduction, increased mindfulness, and the unique opportunity to connect with one's inner self. Join us as we venture into the realm of climbing expeditions, where the simple act of ascending becomes a journey towards deeper understanding and an embrace of life's authentic priorities. Tune in to "Climb Your Everest" and allow the mountains to guide you on a path of introspection and inspiration. "Climb Your Everest" is available on Apple, Spotify and many other platforms. Subscribe and never miss an episode that ignites your spirit and expands your horizons.

In the previous episode, we delved into the heart of CYE's mission, tracing its inception and the impactful work we're dedicated to accomplishing for girls in Nepal. Today, we're excited to shift the spotlight towards a remarkable journey of personal transformation. Join us as we unravel Sara's profound growth and self-discovery throughout her climbing ventures. In this episode, we'll explore how the mountains, those majestic giants, became more than just a backdrop – they became a catalyst for introspection and reflection, leading to a powerful journey of self-discovery. Tune in as we follow Sara's path, learning how each peak conquered mirrored an inner summit reached. We'll explore the challenges faced, lessons learned, and the moments of profound clarity that only the embrace of nature's grandeur can provide. From navigating treacherous terrain to facing her own limitations, Sara's journey will inspire us to consider the parallels between conquering mountains and conquering our own fears and doubts. But it's not just about the summits reached; it's about the valleys crossed and the perseverance that drove Sara to ascend higher, both in elevation and in self-awareness. Through insightful conversations, we'll hear about the transformative power of solitude amidst nature's splendor, and the magic that happens when we slow down to truly listen to our own thoughts. As we navigate through Sara's narrative, we'll discover how her personal growth has a ripple effect – extending beyond her climbing escapades to the way she leads CYE's mission. Join us as we delve into the intricate tapestry that weaves personal transformation and community empowerment, fueled by the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal. So, whether you're an avid mountaineer, an advocate for personal growth, or simply intrigued by the profound connection between nature and the human spirit, this episode promises to be a thought-provoking exploration into the depths of self-discovery. Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation that reminds us all of the beauty and strength that lies within.

At CYE, our mission is to empower marginalized women worldwide through education. We believe that education is a catalyst for change and a powerful tool to break barriers. That's why we have carefully designed a range of educational programs to address the specific needs and challenges faced by women in different communities. One of our core programs focuses on communication skills. Effective communication is vital for personal growth, professional success, and building meaningful relationships. We provide women with the tools and techniques to express themselves confidently, articulate their ideas, and engage in productive dialogue. Financial literacy is another crucial aspect of our educational programs. We believe that empowering women economically is key to their overall empowerment. Through our financial literacy courses, we equip women with essential skills to manage their finances, make informed decisions, and create a path to financial independence. These educational programs are just a glimpse into the comprehensive support and empowerment initiatives we offer at CYE. Each program is tailored to meet the specific needs of the communities we serve, ensuring that women have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to overcome obstacles and thrive. Collaborative nature of the work at CYE Our workshop is an immersive experience that combines a variety of interactive and engaging activities. Participants engage in group exercises that encourage collaboration, teamwork, and problem-solving. Through experiential activities, women have the opportunity to step out of their comfort zones, challenge themselves, and discover their hidden potentials. Role plays provide a platform for women to explore different scenarios and develop effective communication and conflict resolution skills. Open discussions create a safe and inclusive space for participants to share their ideas, perspectives, and experiences. It's through these discussions that meaningful connections are formed, and diverse viewpoints are celebrated. One of the key components of the workshop is the development and presentation of PowerPoint slides. Women are encouraged to express their thoughts and ideas through visually engaging presentations. This not only enhances their public speaking skills but also boosts their confidence in delivering impactful messages. Small group sharing sessions provide a supportive platform for women to exchange personal stories, challenges, and triumphs. It's within these intimate circles that deep connections are forged, and women find strength in their shared experiences. Mentoring opportunities also arise, as more experienced participants provide guidance and support to those who are just starting their journey. Creating a safe environment is of utmost importance to us. We strive to foster a space where women can freely express themselves, ask questions, and engage in meaningful discussions without fear of judgment or reprisal. We believe that this safe and inclusive environment is essential for effective learning, personal growth, and the development of leadership skills. Our goal is to equip women with the tools, knowledge, and experiences they need to become confident leaders, change agents, and advocates within their communities. By nurturing their leadership capacity, we empower them to drive positive change, challenge societal norms, and create a more equitable and inclusive society. Join us in the next episode as we delve deeper into the stories and experiences shared by participants who have gone through this transformative workshop. We will explore their personal growth, the impact they've made in their communities, and the ripple effect of their newfound leadership skills. These stories will be shared on Instagram and Youtube channel as well. Please follow and subscribe for more!

Join us on this thought-provoking episode of our podcast as we delve into the topic of "Education in Nepal." Through inspiring stories of scholarship girls. These young individuals view attending school and pursuing an education as an invaluable privilege. Their unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity serve as a testament to the power of education. Venturing beyond the classroom, we share our profound experiences of visiting underprivileged families. Living in modest huts and confined spaces, these families epitomize strength and gratitude despite their arduous circumstances. As we recount these encounters, we explore the deep emotional impact they left on us. Witnessing their resilience in the face of hardship humbles us and prompts us to reflect on our own challenges in a new light. Ultimately, our protagonist's journey of self-discovery unfolds as she gains a renewed perspective on her own struggles. The resilience of those she encountered ignites a fresh sense of purpose and determination within her—a drive to create positive change and empower those who need it the most. Links: ⁠https://www.climbyoureverest.org⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJZ8kpvydt8⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/cyeorg⁠ ⁠https://www.netflix.com/title/81397884⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/cyeorg⁠ ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Above-Mountains-Shadow-Sara-Safari/dp/1516533216/

In my own journey, I have discovered that it is through confronting my fears and taking risks that I have experienced true empowerment. The same goes for the incredible girls who have inspired me along the way. These girls are not only defying societal norms but also challenging the status quo in their villages. They are determined to attain an education and pursue professional careers, becoming the first in their communities to do so. Their aspirations know no bounds as they dream of becoming engineers, psychologists, mountaineers, or professors, just like me. Their unwavering determination and unwavering belief in their abilities serve as a beacon of hope for their families and communities. By breaking barriers and pursuing their dreams, they are proving that they are among their country's greatest resources. Through their journeys, they will transform not only their own lives but also their nation. Their pursuit of education and professional success will serve as an inspiration for generations to come. It is my hope and dream that these courageous girls will pave the way for a brighter future, one where opportunities and equality abound. Links: ⁠https://www.climbyoureverest.org⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJZ8kpvydt8⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/cyeorg⁠ ⁠https://www.netflix.com/title/81397884⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/cyeorg⁠ ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Above-Mountains-Shadow-Sara-Safari/dp/1516533216/

The driving force behind this podcast is the urgent need to raise awareness about women's rights and movements, particularly the Women Life Freedom movement in Iran. This movement showcases the remarkable courage and resilience of Iranian women and girls as they fight for their basic human rights, fearlessly taking to the streets and risking their lives to create lasting change. Furthermore, this podcast serves as a platform to shed light on the barriers and challenges faced by girls and women worldwide. By highlighting these issues, we can foster understanding, compassion, and a collective commitment to dismantling the obstacles that hinder gender equality and women's empowerment. Links: ⁠https://www.climbyoureverest.org⁠ ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJZ8kpvydt8⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/cyeorg⁠ ⁠https://www.netflix.com/title/81397884⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/cyeorg⁠ ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Above-Mountains-Shadow-Sara-Safari/dp/1516533216/

Welcome to the Climb Your Everest podcast, a platform where we delve into the incredible stories of individuals who have triumphed over their personal challenges and are making a profound impact on the world. I'm your host, Sara Safari, and I am honored to be the founder of Climb Your Everest, a non-profit organization passionately committed to offering education and empowerment opportunities to marginalized women, enabling them to unleash their true potential. Joining me as a co-host on this exciting journey is Avi. Together, we are on a mission to bring you inspiring narratives that will uplift your spirits, ignite your passion, and motivate you to climb your own Everest. In some episodes, we will sit down with extraordinary individuals who have faced adversity head-on and emerged stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever.  Links: https://www.climbyoureverest.org https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iJZ8kpvydt8 https://www.linkedin.com/company/cyeorg https://www.netflix.com/title/81397884 https://www.instagram.com/cyeorg https://www.amazon.com/Above-Mountains-Shadow-Sara-Safari/dp/1516533216/