Testimonials

What People Say about Sandi Smith's Speaking Engagements...

"Great story – personal and exciting." – Otto G. Wagenbach, VP, Wachovia Securities

"Very personal and interesting. Great presentation." – Martha M. Keathen

"I really liked the description... it truly does take you there. I had never thought about what you said. I will definitely think about this on my next risk or problem. You opened my mind a bit wider. Thanks!" – Sagrario Ortiz, Office Manager/Agent, Farmers Insurance

"The biggest risk is not to take any. As I am forcing myself to get out of my comfort zone, and stop working for other and build my own practice, your message struck home. There are only two emotions that rule men; fear and love." – Laurent Pelletier

"Sandi Smith took us around the world in a small plane – in less than an hour. I'd love to take that trip again!" – Sue Ann Flory, Speaker in Christian Ministry

"Sandi builds her story with drama and anticipation so the audience listens intently, careful not to miss a word. There is too much excitement, too much tension. You don't know where it's going – and when you get there. You are so glad you made the trip with her." – Dave Lieber, Columnist, Fort Worth Star-Telegram

"I was mesmerized by Sandi's presentation, her sincerity and passion, her caring about fear vs. comfort. Her original stories kept me hooked." – Bev Harris, Certified Laughter Leader

“Liked the candid open presentation seasoned well with humor and humility. Very interesting trip with lots of exciting experiences.” – Bill Hooten, Pilot, Tri Incorporated

“I thought Sandi was very interesting. Listening to her story really motivates you. Doing something like she did is almost unbelievable – but it makes you feel like you can accomplish anything.” – Christie Cooper, State Farm Insurance

“The opening or mental visualization was wonderful. Really enjoyed your smile and enthusiasm is very contagious.” – Tracy Underhill

“That sounds like an amazing journey!! I am taking away that this, more than anything, was a personal learning experience learning more about yourself because you put yourself out there!! The only way to learn about yourself is to put yourself out there.” – Gisel Cross, State Farm

“Enjoyed the photos. Very inspirational for all women to aspire to. Thank you for your courage!” – Lynell Boone, BL and Associates

“I loved how it was applied to lessons that will help in our business practices. The stories and examples were unique and interesting.” – Suzanne Berger, State Farm

“In our long history, you are the only one who was NOT forced to take a break! I’m impressed!” – Norman Seaton, CFI

"What a great story – you kept me "glued" to your every word. The lesson you tied to RPM will help me to remember the lessons of life. I wish you had had more time. I will be looking forward to your next adventure." – Joci James, About Choice Coaching

“Made it applicable to real life.” – Audience member of women’s group

“Great trip – such courage and commitment.” – Deborah Harris, Sales Rep, State Farm

“I liked the comparison to Amelia’s trip. I liked your personal touch to the presentation. RPM, Risk, Passion, Mastery was a great key point and enjoyed it very much.” – Anne Goodman, Branch Leader, Longaberger Co.

“I learned new things in regards to different countries and different rules/regulations from other areas.” – Martha Balleza, State Farm, Aaron Toews Agency

"Excellent Speech! Thank you for packaging it in a story format. Very inspiring!" – Ellen Hays, Adjunct Professor, Northwood University

What People Say about the book Following Amelia...

As an author and the daughter of a WWII Women's Airforce Service Pilot (WASP), I could imagine my Mother winging her way around the globe with Sandi. A fun, easy read and one that requires no instrument rating! – Eileen McDargh, author of The Resilient Spirit, and daughter of Mary Burchard (WASP 44-6)

"Sandi is an excellent writer. You'll be inspired by this compelling adventure that takes you around the world and exposes you to the freedom and excitement that flying has to offer." – Patty Wagstaff, the first woman three-time U.S. National Aerobatic Champion and National Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee

"Many people dream of traveling around the world, but very, very few actually do it. Sandi and her traveling companion, Jay, not only travel around the world, but they do it in their own plane. Jay is an eye surgeon who volunteers his services in the most exotic of locations. Sandi is his co-pilot who teaches computer skills to people who have never even heard of data processing. These are two people who truly make the world a better place. And through it all, Sandi was able to take meticulous notes of their trip so that she could share their journey with the rest of us in this wonderful book. This book is much more than just another travel log - it's real, true life, adventure. Sandi and Jay battle everything from bureaucratic swindlers to mechanical failures to bad weather, and the reader can't wait to turn the page to see what happens next. So get out your world atlas (you'll need it), settle down in your favorite chair, and prepare to read a story that you'll never forget. – John R. Daniel

"Thank you so much for the book! I'm not an ardent reader but your book was difficult to put down. Maybe because I used to fly or maybe because of the adventure you described, or maybe because I know you (I thought), whatever the reason I was spellbound. Congratulations, and write some more." – Ken Murphy, Ken Murphy Associates, Inc.

"I had no idea how many obstacles could pop up on a round the world flight. I had no idea that so few women had mastered this. I applaud Sandi and her courage to circumnavigate the globe in a very small airplane with lots of problems no one could have foreseen. She makes me want to stretch my goals and see what happens when I get out of my comfort zone. A great read." – Melody Stanford

"Many thanks for sharing your book with me. I have read it with great interest. The story of Amelia Earhart and your arrival into Hawaii reminded me of my venture to the cemetery where Charles Lindbergh was buried on Maui and his memorial just down the coast from Hana." – Frank McLaughlin

"The author's flight around the world is not only inspiring - her story is entertaining! I found myself looking forward to each port of call, and wondering what adventure she would brave next. I could never do what Sandi Smith did, but it was certainly inspiring to read. It made me examine my own life, and approach my challenges with the same vigor that Ms. Smith did her 'round-the-world trip. This book earns my highest recommendation!" – Mitchel L. Whitington

"Fabulous, adventurous, and inspiring....wow!! That's a lot...loved your book...couldn't put it down once I started it...the reader felt just like they were taking this great adventurous trip with you." – Epi Renteria

"Amelia Earhart's trip around the world finished in tragedy, but Sandi Smith (with pilot Jay Merten) became one of the few women in history to go around the world copiloting a single engine airplane with less horsepower than a Mustang GT. When flying a small plane, three strikes and you're out becomes three strikes and you're dead, and I'm amazed how often Smith and Merten made it safely through two strikes. And who knew the biggest danger for world trotting pilots were the bureacrats demanding paper and visas and forms and fees every step of the way? This is a fun read with details from places around the world I'll never go, and in fact some of which I've never even heard of. But the hard work and perseverance shown by Smith should inspire every young person who despairs of getting stuck in a boring life in a boring town. If you want excitement and adventure, like Smith did, you can have plenty. All it takes is determination, hard work, some luck, and more work and determination. This book is now on my teenage daughter's nightstand, and she won't give it back." – James E. Gaskin