MANSFIELD, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Psychotherapist and author Sarah Brokaw, known for her expertise in personal growth, will speak at the Renaissance Theatre on Thursday, May 1, 2025, as part of the Kaleidoscope Speaker Series. The event, scheduled for 5:30 p.m., will focus on how people of all ages can navigate life’s transitions with resilience, authenticity, and grace.

Brokaw is the bestselling author of “Fortytude: Making the Next Decade the Best Decade of Your Life” and has spent years as a psychotherapist and certified coach guiding individuals through significant life changes. Her work emphasizes facing fear, overcoming challenges, and embracing aging with empowerment.

Allie Watson, President and CEO of the Richland County Foundation, which presents the series, said in a statement that the Kaleidoscope Speaker Series aims to bring diverse perspectives to the community and foster meaningful conversations. “Sarah’s expertise and personal insights offer guidance to anyone embracing change and thriving at every stage of life. We’re excited to welcome her to Mansfield as our first speaker of 2025,” Watson said.

Brokaw’s background includes specialized training in family and couples therapy and trauma resiliency. She has provided therapy to individuals impacted by 9/11 and led workshops for women.

Photo: Renaissance Theatre

The Kaleidoscope Speaker Series brings nationally recognized speakers to Mansfield to discuss topics that inspire positive change and build a more vibrant and inclusive community.

Jessica Hiser, Director of Marketing and Advertising for Spherion Mid Ohio, will guide the evening’s discussion. Hiser is actively involved in the Mansfield community, serving on several boards.

The event is presented by the Richland County Foundation, Mansfield/Richland County Public Library, Renaissance Performing Arts Association, and Richland  Source. It is a “Pay What You Can” event, with a suggested donation of $25.

For more information and to reserve a spot, visit rentickets.org.

The Mansfield/Richland County Public Library is also launching a Community Conversations Book Club inspired by the speaker series. The first meeting will be held on Thursday, April 17, at 6 p.m. at Relax, It’s Just Coffee, focusing on the theme “Finding Strength in Every Chapter of Your Life.” Copies of “Fortytude” and related titles are available at mrcpl.org/kaleidoscope and local library branches.

Event Details

  • Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
  • Time: 5:30 PM
  • Location: Renaissance Theatre, 138 Park Ave W, Mansfield, OH
  • Cost: Pay What You Can (suggested donation of $25)
  • Reservations: rentickets.org

Pre-Event Book Club

  • Date: Thursday, April 17
  • Time: 6:00 PM (doors open at 5:00 PM)
  • Location: Relax, It’s Just Coffee
  • Theme: “Finding Strength in Every Chapter of Your Life”
  • Information: mrcpl.org/kaleidoscope