Carla M Krieman is a leadership coach and former financial industry professional whose journey spans four decades of working in high-stakes corporate environments. What makes Carla’s story deeply resonant is her decision to step away from a successful corporate career to address something she felt was quietly eroding workplaces everywhere—trust. Through her work, Carla reminds our 5M+ Humans of Fuzia community that real change begins in the smallest moments of how we communicate, connect, and treat one another, regardless of gender, identity, or role.
What inspired you to start your entrepreneurial journey?
Around 2018, while working in large financial institutions, I started noticing something troubling—people didn’t trust one another. There was a lack of authenticity and transparency in everyday interactions, and it disturbed me deeply. I realized that if we want to change our impact in the world, our careers, or our performance, we need to start with the small moments—how we communicate in daily conversations.
I created a program focused on elevating those small moments, and when I shared it with a group of 100 professionals, the response was overwhelmingly positive. That’s when I knew this work mattered. Eventually, I retired from the finance industry to pursue coaching and consulting full-time.
What challenges did you face while establishing yourself, and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge has been articulating the value of what I do and finding the right people who truly understand its impact. Trust is something everyone struggles with, yet few talk about it openly. I overcame this by focusing on constant, genuine connections.
Another core principle of my work is shifting focus from identity to dignity. When we emphasize dignity—something we all share—it becomes an equalizer. People open up when they feel seen and respected as human beings first.
What has been your proudest milestone so far?
Rather than a single milestone, what stands out most to me is the sense of hope people feel when they understand what small-moments coaching is about. That hope fuels my purpose and keeps me committed to this journey for the long term.
Are you a solopreneur, or do you work with a team?
At the moment, I’m a solopreneur, and I’m really enjoying this phase. That said, I do see potential for this work to grow into a broader culture framework—something that could transform organizations beyond one-on-one or group coaching.
What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
After 40 years in leadership roles, I believe success—whether you’re a woman or a man—comes down to building trusting relationships. Resentment between genders only disrupts trust.
My advice to women is simple: don’t marginalize others based on identity. Build authentic relationships with colleagues, focus on collaboration, and trust will follow. When trust exists, careers transform.
What message would you like to share with future women leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs?
Focus on building trusting relationships and stay grounded in facts, not personal attacks. There’s a difference between a healthy argument and a quarrel. When people with trust exchange ideas respectfully, they move teams, communities, and society forward. We all have a responsibility to do that.
What is your definition of success—professionally and personally?
Success comes from understanding where your gifts, strengths, talents, and desires intersect. Spend time in self-reflection before immersing yourself in the world. When you align with your purpose, your career becomes meaningful. Money may not come first, but fulfillment and impact will—and those can transform everything.
“Real transformation begins when we focus on dignity, trust, and the small moments that shape how we show up for one another.”
Connect with Carla M Krieman: Carla Krieman | LinkedIn
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