Sara's Coaching Corner
March 2026
March is known for buzzer beaters, bracket busters, and unexpected upsets. But this year, the real March Madness may be happening in the job market. Layoff announcements continue to ripple across industries, hiring processes feel longer and more competitive, and AI is quietly reshaping roles faster than many anticipated. Even strong performers are discovering that loyalty and tenure no longer guarantee security. It can feel like you are competing in a tournament you never signed up for, where the rules keep changing mid game. Meanwhile, more professionals are beginning to explore business ownership as a way to step off the unpredictable bracket and build something they can control. This month, I encourage you to ask yourself whether you are simply hoping to advance in someone else’s tournament, or ready to design a game plan of your own.
All my best!
~Sara
I invite you to join my next live webinar, Beyond the Paycheck: Redefining Success Through Career Ownership, happening this Thursday, March 12th at 12pm CT. This interactive session is designed to help professionals rethink what’s possible beyond traditional employment—discovering new pathways to greater freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment through business ownership. Whether you’re exploring your own next chapter or know someone who’s ready for a change, this session is a powerful first step toward clarity and confidence.
Register here, follow me on social media for future webinars, and share this opportunity with friends, family, or colleagues who could benefit from exploring an educational coaching journey of their own. And don’t forget, my client referral program rewards those who help support and grow my business by introducing others who could benefit from the same guidance and insight.
What happens when corporate stability disappears and you decide to bet on yourself? In this episode, I sit down with Karan Kamerkar, a former client who turned repeated layoffs into a move toward business ownership.
We first connected in September 2024 during a season of uncertainty in his career. Today, Karan is the Managing Director of Recruiting 404, a boutique firm partnering with AI-driven and product-led tech companies to build high-impact teams.
In our conversation, he shares what pushed him to explore ownership, how taking action created clarity, and what it really looks like to transition from corporate life to building something of your own. We also discuss mindset shifts, funding realities, and how ownership reshaped his perspective on money, work, and long-term fulfillment.
If you’re questioning your career path and wondering what’s possible beyond corporate, this episode is for you.
Every Monday, I share a short Made 4 More message to challenge how we think about career, risk, and what’s possible beyond traditional employment.
One that resonated recently was Failure Isn’t the Finish Line. Many high performers stay stuck because they’re afraid of getting it wrong. But failure isn’t final. It’s feedback that sharpens and prepares you. The real risk isn’t trying. It’s staying where you are and wondering what could have been.
I post Made 4 More Mondays every week. If you missed this one, you can catch it and others on my YouTube channel.
As you explore franchise ownership, understanding the FDD renewal process is essential. Each year, franchises must update and renew their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). During this time, some brands enter a dark period, meaning they cannot legally discuss franchise opportunities until their registration is approved. Here’s what you need to know:
Why Do Franchises Go “Dark”?
By law, franchise brands must update their FDD annually and, in some states, complete a re-registration process. While this is underway, they are temporarily unable to sell or discuss their opportunity to ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information when evaluating a business.
Why Are So Many Franchises Dark Right Now?
Many franchises operate on a calendar-year financial cycle, with their fiscal year ending on December 31. This means they must update their FDD and, where required, re-register at the start of the year. Because this process takes time—often weeks or months—a large number of franchises enter a dark period between March and May.
How Does This Affect You?
- If a brand you’re considering is in a dark period, all discussions with them must pause until their FDD is approved.
- This applies even if you were already in conversations with them.
- You won’t be able to receive additional details, attend discovery days, or move forward until the brand is legally authorized to share information again.
What Can You Do During This Time?
- Continue your research and explore other franchise options.
- Stay focused on your goals and ensure you’re financially and mentally prepared for business ownership.
- Be patient—if you’re set on a brand that’s currently dark, you can resume discussions once their FDD is approved.
The FDD renewal process is a normal and necessary part of franchising, designed to protect you as a future business owner. If you have any questions or need guidance during this period, I’m here to help!
- Online Webinar: Beyond the Paycheck-Redefining Success Through Business Ownership Register Here (March 12th at 12pm CST ONLINE)
What conferences or career development events are you attending? I welcome the opportunity to speak at live or virtual events, including but not limited to: Lunch & Learns, Job Fairs/Franchise Shows, College Business Classes, Career Development Networks & Events, Small Business & Entrepreneurship Networks & Events, and Recruit Military Events. Please send details to sroy@esourcecoach.com. For all referrals that lead to a booked speaking engagement, you will receive a $50 VISA gift card!
Who in your life—family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, or even someone from your gym—feels stuck in their career and unsure of their next move? Imagine the impact you could have by connecting them to the same coaching experience that’s helping you gain clarity and direction. Plus, as a thank-you, you’ll earn $250 for each referral!
*Click here to learn more about my Client Referral Program! Your referrals don’t just change lives—they mean the world to me. Keep them coming!
About Me
I’m passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their goals and dreams for income, lifestyle, wealth, and equity. It’s my greatest honor and privilege to help you discover your You 2.0 and unlock your full potential!
I live in the Kansas City Metropolitan area with my three amazing children and hold an MBA from St. Mary’s University. In my downtime, I love spending time with family and friends, whether it’s attending sporting events, enjoying plays and musicals, exploring local wineries, or taking in live music.
Email: sroy@esourcecoach.com
Website: https://sroy.esourcecoach.com/
Phone: 913-359-9939
