Caroline Kim is a seasoned leader-turned-certified coach who swapped a 30-year corporate career for the uncertain — and deeply rewarding — work of helping others find clarity and confidence. Her journey from Program Management leadership at Google to launching a full-time coaching practice after overcoming burnout makes her story essential reading for our 5M+ Humans of Fuzia community: it’s a clear, compassionate roadmap for women reclaiming their careers, voice, and sense of worth.
Q: How did you first discover coaching and decide to become a coach yourself?
A: I first experienced coaching years ago when I was figuring out a big life move. My coach’s questions helped me find clarity and take action — the experience was transformative. Later, while at Google, I had opportunities to work with coaches and mentor others, and I realized the power of coaching was that instead of giving people answers (like a mentor does), it helps them to access their own wisdom to find solutions. That empowerment inspired me to train formally (ICF certification, 2023) and make coaching my work.
Q: What gave you the courage to leave a corporate job and pursue coaching full time?
A: After a period of burnout, I re-evaluated what mattered and realized I wanted to align my life with work that felt purposeful. I planned practically — reviewed our finances, agreed a one-year runway with my husband — and gave myself permission to experiment. Seven months in, it’s been energizing: I’m meeting people, learning new things, and confirming that coaching is what I love.
Q: What has been the toughest part of building your coaching practice?
A: When you are the service, asking someone to pay for your time feels vulnerable. I read a book about selling in an authentic, coaching-aligned way and practiced using coaching skills in introductory calls. It’s still uncomfortable sometimes, but with persistence and a growth mindset it becomes easier.
Q: Are you a solopreneur or do you have a team?
A: Right now I’m a solopreneur. I also contract on coaching platforms and keep a portfolio approach — private practice, platform work, workshops, group coaching, and a blog I’ve been writing for years. I enjoy exploring different paths more than doing just one thing.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
A: There’s a steep drop-off in the percentage of women as roles get more senior. A lot of this is due to structural challenges like caregiving roles and a lack of role models. What helps is building networks of women leaders who support each other: sharing stories, offering encouragement, and being visible role models.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
A: Be yourself. Instead of trying to fit a mold, know your individual strengths and values. When you act authentically, you reveal your unique leadership style, and this is what resonates with others. There is no single playbook for leadership. Remember that you already have the qualities and capability within you.
Q: How do you define success, personally and professionally?
A: Everyone has their own definition of success. For me, it’s being happy, healthy, and strong — physically, mentally, and emotionally. My strength comes from continuing to show up in the face of difficulty. Success means I can make valuable contributions to others and have the confidence to face life’s challenges.
“Coaching helped me find the courage to trust my own wisdom — that’s a gift I want to pass on to others.” — Caroline Kim
Connect with Caroline Kim
Caroline Kim | LinkedIn
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