Wendy English is a former corporate recruiter who transformed her challenges into a mission-driven coaching practice. After years of navigating underappreciation and poor leadership in the workplace, she chose to create a space where women—especially women of color—can rediscover their power, purpose, and potential. Humans of Fuzia is proud to share Wendy’s story with our 5M+ community as she champions the belief that every woman deserves to build a career aligned with her values, her dreams, and her wellbeing. Her journey reflects the spirit of He for She and She for She, showing how lived experiences can inspire real change.

What inspired you to start your journey into coaching? Was it a person, a moment, or a challenge?
I would say it was a challenge. I worked in corporate America as a recruiter for several years, and after 2020 I took on multiple contract roles that made me realize how exhausting and disheartening corporate environments could be—poor leadership, microaggressions, and a constant feeling of being undervalued. As a woman of color, it was especially difficult. In April, I finally decided to start my own business: The Growth Coach of Kansas City South. I wanted to help other women who felt marginalized in corporate and needed support transitioning into entrepreneurship.

What challenges have you faced as a business owner, and how are you overcoming them?
One major challenge is helping people understand that coaching isn’t a luxury—it’s becoming a necessity. Many solopreneurs work in their business instead of on their business. Coaching helps them see the gaps and reconnect with why they started their journey. For me personally, the challenge is getting in front of my community so they know what I do and how I can support them. It’s about visibility, connection, and making an impact.

Are you a solopreneur or do you have a team supporting you?
I’m a solopreneur. It’s just me at the moment.

What is a milestone you’re proud of in your coaching journey?
I’m still relatively new, so instead of a milestone, I’d say I’m proud of overcoming fear. Being on camera, posting content, giving presentations—all of that is uncomfortable. But entrepreneurship is about doing things scared. Whether it’s networking, public speaking, or creating value for others, I’ve learned to push past self-doubt and just show up. That in itself feels like a milestone.

What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Women are incredibly capable leaders—we just haven’t always been given the opportunity or a seat at the table. My focus is especially on women of color who are often overlooked, not because they lack talent, but because systems haven’t supported them. I want them to know they have choices. You don’t have to stay in a job for 40 years just because it seems secure. You can chart your own path, create your own future, and build something meaningful.

What is your message for future women leaders?
Look at the areas of your life you’re passionate about and imagine what it would feel like to love what you do. If corporate works for you, great—but if it doesn’t, don’t stay because you think it’s safer. Corporations lay off thousands all the time. Nothing is secure. So why not pursue your dream instead of settling?

What is your idea of success—professionally and personally?
My idea of success has evolved. In my 20s, it was about money. Now, it’s about alignment—emotional, spiritual, and physical. It’s about peace, generosity, and helping others. If I’m tense, stressed, or unhappy, that’s a sign something needs to change. Success for me is living a balanced, peaceful life where my values, dreams, and actions all support one another.

“Dream a little. You’re the only one standing between where you are and the life you want.”

Connect with Wendy English  Wendy English | LinkedIn

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