Meet Sarah Payton | Sound Practitioner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sarah Payton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sarah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The idea for Positive Sound Vibes LLC emerged from noticing how many working professionals were suffering from burnout. Having personally experienced the healing power of music, I felt inspired to share that with others. Music has been a transformative force in my own life, and I wanted to create a space where people could find rest and rejuvenation through sound meditation.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this work is witnessing the change in people’s expressions post-sound bath. Seeing how relaxed and at peace they are, and hearing them share their transformative experiences afterward, solidified my desire to dedicate my life to this. I also love the flexibility this business provides—it allows me to create my own rhythm, balancing my work and rest in a way that feels right for me. It’s truly a privilege to help others find that same balance in their lives.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is centered around sound healing, and my mission is to help working professionals recover from burnout, find rest, and reconnect with themselves. What sets Positive Sound Vibes apart is my deep understanding of the corporate world—I’ve spent over 17 years in it, working in roles like Agile Coach, Consultant, and Project Manager, often collaborating with C-suite executives. This experience gives me a unique perspective on the high levels of stress and burnout that professionals face, which is why I’ve crafted my practice specifically for those needing relief from career pressures.

What I’m most proud of is how I’ve been able to take my corporate experience and combine it with sound meditation to create a truly tailored service. The transformation I see in my clients—from stressed and overwhelmed to calm and reflective—fills me with gratitude and excitement every day. My journey into sound healing has been incredibly fulfilling, but it hasn’t been without its challenges.

One of the biggest struggles I faced was staying motivated and moving forward, especially when I doubted myself. Learning to give myself the validation I needed was a process. I leaned on local professional groups for support and enlisted coaches and therapists to help me uncover the belief systems that were holding me back. This self-reflection helped me let go of outdated ideas and push through moments of stagnation. I’ve learned that running a business is often about responding to the opportunities in front of you and, at times, surrendering control in order to find your flow. That balance of perseverance and flexibility has been key in continuing on this path.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable. Persistence and patience are everything—staying committed to the vision, even when things feel uncertain, is essential. But more than that, I’ve realized that letting go of the need to control every aspect and trusting the process is just as important. Business, like sound healing, often requires us to respond and adapt, rather than force a certain outcome.

What I want the world to know about Positive Sound Vibes is that this work is deeply personal to me. My goal is to help people find the peace and rest they so often neglect in their busy lives. Sound is a powerful tool for healing and transformation, and I’m here to guide people on their journey to rediscover their own sense of balance and well-being.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting Atlanta, I’d definitely want to make sure they experienced a mix of great food, relaxation, and some fun local spots! Here’s what I’d plan for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Foodie Adventure at Krog Street Market
We’d start at Krog Street Market, one of my favorite spots for grabbing a bite. For lunch, we’d hit up Yalla for a Chicken Shawarma Bowl—I’m obsessed with their eggplant. Later in the day, we’d swing by Fred’s Meats for dinner and try their Korean Cheesesteak. The sauce is absolutely amazing!

Day 2: Sushi and Coffee Day
For lunch, we’d stop by Umai Sushi & Noodles and indulge in their Deep-Fried Salmon Roll—it’s a must-try. Afterward, we’d grab coffee at Inman Perk Coffee for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, and for something healthy and refreshing, Kale Me Crazy has incredible smoothies.

Day 3: Kombucha & Relaxation
To unwind, we’d sip on some Golda Kombucha, with my personal favorite being the Blackberry Basil flavor. Afterward, it’s time to relax and recharge at Full Circle Studio, where they offer peaceful vibes and reiki sessions. It’s a perfect spot to get centered.

Day 4: Treat Yourself Day
After exploring the city, I’d take them to Heavenly Foot Spa—they have the best foot massages, perfect for a little mid-week relaxation. It’s a great way to recover and reset for the rest of the week.

Day 5: Art and Culture
We’d spend the day at the High Museum of Art, one of my favorite spots in Atlanta. It’s such an inspiring place with a diverse collection of art, and there’s always something interesting on display.

Day 6: Hangout Spot – The James Room
In the evening, we’d head over to The James Room, one of my favorite hangout spots in the city. It’s got a great vibe, perfect for unwinding and having some fun. Whether we’re having a cocktail or just enjoying the atmosphere, it’s always a good time there.

Day 7: Explore and Reflect
On the final day, we’d take it slow, maybe revisiting a favorite spot or taking some time to just explore one of Atlanta’s parks or neighborhoods. Sometimes the best part of a trip is the unplanned moments where you can just take in the local culture.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
While my journey has been a deeply personal one, there are a few key people who have played a significant role in helping me shape Positive Sound Vibes LLC. I want to first recognize Jamie Butler, who guided me in defining what I truly wanted from this business. Her mentorship helped me clarify my vision and align it with my purpose, which has been essential to creating a meaningful impact for others.

A huge shoutout also goes to Danielle Hall from Sound Embrace, whose expertise in sound healing gave me the confidence to dive deeper into the technical aspects of this practice. She provided me with the foundational knowledge I needed to offer something truly transformative to my clients. Additionally, I owe a lot to Becca Laurito with The Meta Musician, who helped refine my skills and approach as a sound healer, expanding my capabilities and perspective on how to best serve those experiencing burnout and stress.

Each of these individuals played a pivotal role in shaping my journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for their guidance and support. Without their expertise and mentorship, Positive Sound Vibes wouldn’t be where it is today.

Website: https://positivesoundvibes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/positivesoundvibes/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-payton-31722745/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/positivesoundvibes

Image Credits
Images by Corie Good with Lasting Good Photography