Leadership coach and women’s empowerment advocate Kendel Paulsen is the founder of Women Empowerment Coaching and Consulting, where she helps women professionals and leaders overcome imposter syndrome, find clarity, and achieve meaningful personal and professional growth.
With a diverse career spanning government service, corporate roles, nonprofit leadership, and board-level positions, her journey reflects a powerful shift from external success to purpose-driven impact. Today, she works closely with women navigating career transitions, burnout, and leadership challenges—guiding them toward confidence, clarity, and fulfillment.
As part of the Fuzia initiative, Humans of Fuzia shares her story to inspire individuals seeking purpose, balance, and empowerment.
Q: Could you share your professional journey and what inspired you to become a coach?
A: I started my career working for the Department of Defense after graduating from college. I initially wanted a strong corporate career and aimed to move quickly up the ladder. However, I soon realized that neither government nor corporate roles fulfilled me.
Later, I transitioned into nonprofit work and discovered my true strength—program development and creating initiatives that help people grow. Over the years, I served on boards, chaired committees, and stepped into leadership roles.
Eventually, in my 50s, I reached a point where I asked myself what truly fulfilled me. I discovered coaching through a book and realized I wanted to help women find purpose and access opportunities. Growing up in a male-dominated environment, I always felt women were on the outside looking in, and I wanted to change that. That vision led me to build my coaching practice.
Q: What is your coaching approach and how do you help clients achieve their goals?
A: My coaching style follows a strategic planning methodology. We begin by identifying what a person truly wants and exploring what is causing dissatisfaction or lack of fulfillment in their life.
Once we discover the core issue, we develop a structured plan with clear actions and accountability. I work closely with clients to track their progress and help them stay aligned with their goals.
Burnout often happens when people follow paths shaped by external expectations rather than personal purpose. My work focuses on helping individuals uncover their authentic direction and move toward meaningful fulfillment.
Q: What does women’s empowerment mean to you?
A: Women’s empowerment is about understanding your purpose and owning who you are. It means recognizing your gifts, talents, and strengths, and putting them into action.
Too often, women try to meet everyone else’s expectations, which leads to exhaustion and dissatisfaction. True empowerment comes from honoring your own purpose first. When you live authentically and align with your values, you naturally create the happiness and impact you seek.
Q: What are your views on imposter syndrome and burnout among women leaders?
A: Imposter syndrome and burnout are closely linked to social and cultural expectations. Women often feel pressure to balance personal aspirations with societal roles, which creates internal conflict and exhaustion.
The key is learning to prioritize yourself without guilt. Just like putting on your oxygen mask first during a flight emergency, you must take care of yourself before supporting others. When women understand this, they can lead more effectively and sustainably.
Q: What challenges have you faced as an entrepreneur?
A: Entrepreneurship comes with constant challenges—uncertainty, setbacks, frustration, and moments of doubt. The journey is rarely smooth.
There were times when I struggled to find direction, experienced setbacks, and had to reassess my strategy repeatedly. But these challenges taught me resilience. Entrepreneurship requires continuous learning, persistence, and the willingness to keep showing up even when progress feels slow.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs and women leaders?
A: Surround yourself with a strong support system. Build a community of people who believe in you and encourage you during both successes and challenges.
Having a supportive network helps you stay motivated, overcome difficulties, and continue moving forward with confidence.
“Be true to your purpose, surround yourself with support, and never underestimate your right to lead, grow, and succeed.”
Connect with Kendel Paulsen:
www.linkedin.com/in/kendel-paulsen
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