Conversations with Erica
Conversations with Erica
Podcast Description
Conversations with Erica is a podcast for purpose-driven people who want to live, work, and lead with greater clarity, authenticity, and joy. Each episode features honest conversations with thoughtful guests about navigating change, making meaningful pivots, and living in alignment with your values. From career shifts to personal growth, these discussions offer insights and inspiration for anyone seeking impact without burnout—and a life that feels like your own.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers topics such as career transitions, personal growth, and authenticity in leadership, with episodes like 'Living with No Regrets' featuring Diane Ivey discussing values-led careers and 'Chasing Your Now' with Chuck Spidell exploring creative pivots and identity.

Conversations with Erica is a podcast for purpose-driven people who want to live, work, and lead with greater clarity, authenticity, and joy. Each episode features honest conversations with thoughtful guests about navigating change, making meaningful pivots, and living in alignment with your values. From career shifts to personal growth, these discussions offer insights and inspiration for anyone seeking impact without burnout—and a life that feels like your own.
Host: Erica Mattison, Career & Executive Coach
Guest: Coach Sam Balto, Co-Founder & Executive Director of Bike Bus World
Welcome
In this episode of Conversations with Erica, I had an inspiring chat with my longtime friend and fellow advocate, Coach Sam Balto. Sam is a physical education teacher and the co-founder of Bike Bus World. While he didn’t start the Bike Bus movement, he has helped popularize it worldwide—bringing visibility, energy, and inspiration to families and schools.
By leaning into his calling, Sam has turned his passion for biking, teaching, and community into a powerful force for change. What began with walking school buses in Boston has grown into a global phenomenon sparking joy, confidence, and connection.
In this episode, we discuss
- How walking and biking school buses benefit kids, families, and schools
- Why you don’t need permission to create change in your community
- The confidence and independence youth gain from participating
- How Sam reshaped his career and life by leaning into his calling
- The importance of balance, consistency, and listening to your own capacity
Quote to remember
“You don’t need permission to make your neighborhood better.” – Coach Sam Balto
Resources mentioned
Instagram: Bike Bus World | Coach Balto
Tune in and ask yourself
- Does your local school have a walking or biking school bus? If not, who might be interested in starting one with you?
- Where in your own life have you been waiting for permission—and what’s one step you could take without it?
Next steps
Listen to this and other inspiring episodes of Conversations with Erica.
Disclaimer
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