Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Lori Schwartz Reichl. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Dr. Lori, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
Growing up, my mother often reminded me to “Feel the fear but do it anyway.” She understood that confidence isn’t something we’re born with—it’s something we build. Her encouragement helped me learn that stepping outside my comfort zone was part of developing a strong sense of self and discovering who I truly am. She nurtured my creativity and helped me embrace not only my uniqueness, but the differences in others as well. Over time, I began to shape a career that reflected my strengths, values, and individuality.
Both my parents played a significant role in helping me develop confidence. My father, who was also my band director, guided me through music—teaching me the discipline, focus, and leadership required in performance. As a saxophone soloist and ensemble member, I learned to listen deeply, collaborate intentionally, and support others while leading with purpose. Sports further reinforced these values, strengthening my sense of responsibility and perseverance—especially knowing that my teammates depended on me.
As an adult, my husband—an engineer—challenged me to think critically and view problems from multiple perspectives. This intellectual push helped me navigate career transitions with more self-assurance and adaptability. Over time, I came to understand that confidence is sustained through reflection, resilience, and community.
In 2005, after 15 years of teaching music education and conducting school bands, I stepped away from the classroom. At 37, I embraced a new season—raising my children and exploring creative, collaborative work that aligned with my evolving values. The journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t easy, but it’s been deeply fulfilling and essential in this stage of life, especially with two very active elementary-aged children.
Nearly a decade ago, I stepped into two transformative roles at once: becoming a mother and an entrepreneur. While many resources exist to support each role individually, I found little guidance on navigating both simultaneously. Through years of trial, learning, and growth, I’ve finally begun to see the rewards—both personally and professionally.
This confidence took time. It grew from the lessons passed down by my parents, the insight shared by my husband and mentors, and the experiences that tested my resilience. I’m proud of the bold path I’ve paved—and excited to continue watching it unfold.
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without anxiety, self-doubt, and setbacks. I was held back in first grade, transferred universities, switched majors, retook a failed educator certification test, and was passed over for positions I worked hard to earn. My entrepreneurial ideas were often met with rejection. Yet, these obstacles became turning points. Through curiosity, courage, and commitment, I reshaped my mindset, refined my habits, and redirected my energy.
I envisioned a life rooted in purpose—and built it, one key change at a time. Now, I dedicate myself to helping others grow by “making key changes” of their own. What once felt like failure became fuel. Confidence came not from perfection, but from persistence.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am the proud founder and visionary behind Making Key Changes, LLC, a business rooted in the belief that small, intentional shifts can create powerful transformations.
My career began in music education, where I learned the significance of a key change—a shift in the tonal center of music that injects energy, signals growth, and often leads to a more dynamic resolution. Over time, I realized this concept applied far beyond music. The desire to help others embrace these “key changes” in their lives became my purpose.
After transitioning from the public school classroom, I expanded my reach and impact by building a global classroom. Today, as an author, educator, podcaster, and speaker, I design and deliver impactful programs that inspire both adults and students. My primary focus is public speaking, where I offer talks, workshops, and courses that help people reflect on their habits, adopt fresh ideas, and make practical changes that lead to lasting growth.
Through Making Key Changes, I mentor individuals and teams to unlock personal and organizational potential through actionable, purpose-driven strategies. I regularly speak at schools, companies, and conferences, delivering insights on topics such as:
• Beating Burnout
• Building Confidence
• Establishing Routines
• Sharing a Vision
Two of my newest and most meaningful initiatives are my weekly podcast and a signature youth program called The Confidence Camp.
On the Making Key Changes Podcast—available on all major platforms—I share stories, pose reflective questions, and offer practical tools to inspire change in both personal and professional spheres. Each 10-minute episode is designed to provide mentorship and motivation that helps listeners grow in connection with those they lead and serve.
The Confidence Camp is a one-of-a-kind experience for girls entering grades 4 through 8. Rooted in my doctoral research—The Student Voice: Perception of Students’ Representation of Themselves—and inspired by the bond I share with my daughter, this camp supports young girls at a pivotal stage of self-discovery. It’s a safe, fun, and empowering space where children build lasting confidence through activities in art, mindfulness, creative expression, fitness, and leadership.
To bring this vision to life, I’ve assembled a dynamic team of 20 female leaders—each of whom embodies the belief: “If you dream it, you can do it.” Together, we create an environment where children can thrive, express themselves, and embrace their full potential.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
On a recent podcast interview, the host mentioned that she thought I was smart. I responded that I don’t usually think of myself that way. I consider myself as ambitious and creative, and I try to treat everyone with kindness. Those qualities have taken me far in school, work, and life.
Ambition – I’ve always had the drive, enthusiasm, and determination to pursue goals that others might consider risky. This ambition pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and take on challenges that accelerated my growth.
Creativity – I aim to be a visionary thinker, generating ideas and solutions that are original and impactful. This has helped me approach problems from new angles and contribute meaningfully in collaborative settings.
Kindness – I’ve learned that empathy is a quiet strength. We never truly know what someone else is going through, so I try to lead with kindness and gratitude in every interaction. It builds trust and creates a more positive, collaborative environment.
My advice to others is simple: Embrace your uniqueness! Your perspective, experiences, and voice are your greatest assets—don’t dilute them to fit a mold. Be bold. Be unapologetically you.
Also, believe in yourself—because if you don’t, it’s hard for anyone else to. Don’t give up after the first “no”… or the hundredth. Stay consistent, stay focused, and trust that what you believe, you can achieve. It may take time for others to fully recognize your value—but someone will. And once they do, others will follow.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I’m actively seeking schools, companies, and organizations looking for a dynamic, engaging, and compassionate speaker to inspire and uplift their staff. Through powerful storytelling, thought-provoking questions, and actionable “key changes,” I deliver impactful talks and workshops on topics such as:
• Beating Burnout
• Building Confidence
• Establishing Routines
• Sharing a Vision
I’m also currently looking for sponsors for the Making Key Changes podcast and seeking partners and host venues interested in bringing The Confidence Camp to their communities—whether as a school-day experience, weekend event, or summer program. Together, we can create empowering, transformative experiences that leave a lasting impact on both individuals and the next generation.
To learn more or explore collaboration opportunities, visit:
👉 https://MakingKeyChanges.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://MakingKeyChanges.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorischwartzreichl
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MakingKeyChanges
Image Credits
Pam Long/Pam Long Photography
Richard Twigg/Richard Twigg Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
