Sarah Payne

Sarah Payne is a dynamic leader with a diverse career spanning sales, retail, leasing, nonprofit management, healthcare, and leadership development. She thrives on tackling challenges, fostering innovation, and empowering others. Her journey began in sales and retail leadership, where she honed her skills in customer experience, team development, and operational efficiency. She later transitioned to property management, supporting businesses from launch to expansion and then into nonprofit and healthcare philanthropy, where she built donor relationships, secured funding, and drove community impact.

Sarah’s passion for leadership development led her to co-found Aspen Root Collective, where she helps organizations build strengths-based cultures, maximize talent, and create engaged teams. A Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and Dare to Lead™ trained facilitator, she equips individuals and organizations with the tools for courageous, high-trust leadership. She is a sought-after speaker and facilitator, inspiring audiences to overcome adversity, prevent burnout, and lead with authenticity.

Deeply committed to her Northeast Indiana roots, Sarah serves on nonprofit boards, mentors emerging leaders, and advocates for meaningful change. In 2020, she helped to launch DeKalb LEADS, a Leadership Development program focused on engaging and developing leaders in Northeast Indiana to become more informed, connected, and action-oriented in their service to their communities. Sarah is particularly passionate about strengthening and amplifying the voices of leaders in our rural communities.

Recognized as an Influential Woman of Northeast Indiana in 2022, she embodies a growth mindset and a passion for making a difference. Her career—built on networking, curiosity, and embracing new challenges—reflects her belief in the power of connection and continuous learning.

Interested in having Sarah speak to your group or at your event? Complete the form below and we’ll be in touch to discuss the details!