YOUR MEANINGFUL MOMENT
You have a high stakes moment coming up — a job interview, describing your non-profit’s impact, exchanging vows, giving an important toast or eulogy…
This is a time to be honest, open and clear. I’ll help you organize your thoughts, clarify your message, and prepare what to say for that special occasion.
You’ll stop performing and start connecting. When you speak to what matters, you’ll make a deep and lasting impact.
No speaking engagement is too small to work 1:1 with a trusted speaking coach.
“Katherine’s techniques helped me reach a level of self-reflection I had never experienced. With every draft I wrote, it was like I was peeling back the onion layers of my soul. Without her help, I would not have been able to convey such a deep, emotional, and honest speech in front of a community I admire and care so much about.”
Your STORY DEEP DIVE
We carry our stories around with us; they whisper to us throughout our lives. When we take the time to dig deeper, examine what’s inside and connect the dots, we find clarity, truth and power in who we are, what we do, and why we do it. We find our narrative. We find our truth. We find ourselves.
I offer a powerful process that helps you excavate your authentic story.
When you get clear on your story, so many possibilities abound—
—answering the question “Tell me about yourself” and “What do you do?” from a connected, coherent and confidence place can be the difference between capturing an opportunity or missing one
—having a compelling About Me page, Linked In Profile or Bio will attract your ideal client, funder or the right hire
—sharing your story in a meaningful way will raise awareness (and money) for your cause
—knowing your story can unlock your calling, your purpose and be an essential step in making the thing-you-have-been-longing-to-do happen (starting a blog, building a website, applying to graduate schools are just a few examples of ways I’ve helped people turn an idea into some tangible, real expression of themselves)
Powerful story excavation and meaning-making will lead to transformation. Because in the process of building the skills, story and narrative to connect with others you will also connect more deeply with the most important person in this equation — yourself.
We have whispers inside of us that need to be unearthed. Your story will lead the way.
“Katherine’s coaching goes beyond honing public speaking skills; it’s about empowering authenticity. Her active listening and thoughtful questions provided a safe space to articulate my goals and navigate anxieties about my client-facing role at a new job. I felt uncomfortable with taking up space and sharing my authentic self at work. Fast forward a year, and I’m now confidently hosting and leading events with clients across the country, thanks to the newfound confidence instilled by Katherine’s guidance. I highly recommend Katherine to anyone looking to get to know themselves more deeply and build confidence, both personally and professionally.”
“Over the years of my cancer diagnoses, I thought it would be helpful for me and my community to hear from me and tell my story through a blog. I reached out to Katherine and she listened so deeply that she could find the beat of my own thoughts. She made me feel confident in the stories I chose to tell. And she made me feel safe enough to take the risk to let myself be seen in this way. My own inner critique was omnipresent and Katherine helped me to talk back to it, and challenged me to find the strength to tell my story. I am forever grateful to Katherine for her love and her expertise. ”
“Once again, Katherine was a dream to work with this year. During her 8-week online course, I was able to dig deep in a loving and safe environment which helped me flush out the bones of a much-dreamed-about signature talk. During our 1 on 1 work together, she helped me refine the talk and improve my presentation skills. She does all of this with her usual flair of enthusiasm, positivity, honesty and love. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner in this process.”
TESTIMONIALS
“Working with Katherine has been an absolute pleasure and a transformative experience. I have had the privilege of being personally coached by Katherine in preparation for our yearly gala. Every year, she helps us refine our storytelling, ensuring we convey compelling narratives that inspire donations and resonate deeply with potential donors.
Katherine has not only helped me articulate the importance of the work Enterprise for Youth does, but she has also guided me in sharing my personal and professional journey with clarity and impact. Storytelling is critical to connecting with our audience, and Katherine has an exceptional talent for helping individuals find their voice.
While I like to think of myself as an eager and determined student, the true magic Katherine brings lies in her work with our keynote speakers. Each year, three young adults share their personal journeys and how Enterprise for Youth has empowered them to reach for their dreams. For many, this is their first time speaking publicly outside of a classroom setting. These young people come from diverse backgrounds, and several are English language learners.
Witnessing a young person from El Salvador or Mongolia stand confidently before an audience to share their truth is nothing short of inspiring. Katherine’s guidance transforms nerves into self-assurance and uncertainty into powerful self-expression. Her coaching is not just about public speaking; it’s about building confidence and fostering growth.
As a CEO, I often speak in front of audiences, and while I may feel that public speaking comes naturally, Katherine’s training elevates my abilities and leaves me feeling unstoppable. Seeing the evolution of our young speakers—from their initial hesitation to receiving standing ovations—is a truly beautiful and rewarding experience.
Katherine is more than a coach; she is a mentor and a guide. Her work has been invaluable to our organization, and her impact will continue to resonate through the lives of those she has inspired and empowered.”
- Carlos Solis, CEO, Enterprise for Youth
“Katherine, Thank you for your help in preparing for my speech to launch “Circle of Service”--I couldn't have done it without you!! This a new partnership with the Peace Corps and I know you can appreciate just how significant a collaboration like this is for our work at Tilting Futures. Not only will it accelerate pathways for young people to drive meaningful, lasting change on a global scale, but it advances our systems change work to collaborate with institutions that can amplify our influence and increase accessibility to transformative learning opportunities. We’re just getting started, and I can’t wait to see the incredible opportunities this will unlock for our community.”
-Erin Lewellen, CEO, Tilting Futures
Watch a recording on Erin’s speech here.
“Katherine was instrumental in me knocking it out of the park at my last speaking engagement at Texas A&M. She provided the structure, the invaluable feedback I needed, and the warmth and safe space I needed to confidently prepare, and share my story. I'd work with her again in a heartbeat.”
- Sarah Caliendo, Leadership and Career Coach
I’m certain your ability to connect with me and my life story, your phenomenal deep listening skills, and your expertise in how to captivate the audience paved the road to a successful presentation.
- Tonia Lediju, Chief Audit Officer
For anyone looking to improve their communication skills, you need to see Katherine! Hands down, this was the BEST 2 hours I've ever spent on my personal and professional development. Katherine is so authentic, personable, approachable, and provides brilliant individualized coaching with easy concepts to follow and practice. In a short amount of time, I was able to craft an "elevated" pitch about myself and we also came up with a great strategy and outline for a big upcoming presentation I have.
Thank you Katherine and SpeechSkills, you have given me the coaching, tools and resources to gain more credibility and confidence - there's a new sheriff in town ;-).
-Finney Barker, Strategic Planning & Performance Principal
"It was a magical experience - great job Katherine! Thank you for creating that space for our board and the senior leadership team. "
-A.M., Global Citizen Year, Leadership Team
"Thank you so much for your session with us this week. It was absolutely what we needed-you nailed it. I connected with each board member after, and each one said it helped them reframe their role. Thank you for working with us like this—and for the work you are doing in the world. We are all better for it. And thank you for officially being a member of our extended team! Feel so grateful!"
- Erin Lewellen, Global Citizen Year, Leadership Team
I wanted to thank you for the triumph that was my presentation at the Women’s Leadership Forum in New York! Thanks to our work, it was everything and more!
If you hadn’t been so savvy, there could have been competing narratives in that presentation. And because you knew how to declaratively find what needed to be edited or clarified, the talk became a jewel.
- Eleanor Scott, Coach, Artist & Teacher
I had to give three different speeches over the course of two weeks and I was completely stressed. Speaking in front of an audience has always made my hands shake, my heart race and my knees weak.
Katherine masterfully taught me how to outline what I wanted to say. She encouraged me to not memorize something canned from a piece of paper. With a bunch of Katherine’s coaching, and practicing my presentations in front of my dog and a mirror, I began to realize I have the ability to deliver a meaningful presentation—and actually enjoy myself. Katherine has a true gift of helping folks speak from their heart.
- Susan Masto, Former Board Chair, Gateway High School
Katherine was just the ticket in improving a presentation I had given many times before. She was able to reorganize my topics and add spice to it in a snap. And she did so while really valuing how little time I had available to prepare. Spot on and time efficient, two values I appreciate.
- Tom Hale, Founder, Backroads
I was asked to give a Ted Talk style presentation to inspire others at a Women’s Conference, and knew I needed help to tell a meaningful story. Katherine, you were an amazing partner, quickly working together with me to develop a concise and compelling talk in just a few weeks. You have the ability to find the most meaningful aspects of many ideas; you then coached me on the delivery as well, which resulted in a satisfying and successful presentation – thank you!
-Deanna A., Chief Commercial Officer
Working with Katherine was one of the best business investments I ever made. From the very beginning, she totally got me. With her vast experience and upbeat energy, she listened to all my ramblings and then brilliantly pulled out what was important to convey. Together, we created content for my website and helped me build my brand. Most importantly, Katherine gave me the confidence I needed to successfully pivot from one career to another.
– Marcy Maloy, Portrait Photographer
I’ve told my story many times before but this was the first time I felt like it was a true depiction of how much I’ve grown. You were a joy to work with.
— Tiana S.
Katherine made me feel that what I have to say does matter. Without her help, I would have not been able to produce such a powerful, meaningful, and insightful speech that allowed me to share my story with others.
— Lupita S., San Rafael High, Wesleyan College
Katherine’s coaching enabled me to gain the courage to share my personal story in a way that was purposeful and enriching for myself and the audience. I had never shared the core drive behind my mission before; Katherine respectfully pushed me to go beyond my comfort zone while providing practical guidance along the way. I hope to work with her again!
— Manmeet Kaur, Founder, City Health Works
I had an idea. One that I had been sitting on for a long time, but I felt a wee bit sheepish. I'd talked to a few people, but really needed someone to help me bring the idea to life. Who did I go to first but Katherine Kennedy, Story/Executive/Writing Coach extraordinaire. Katherine is a woman with strong passions, tremendous personal strength and professional skill--and the best laugh in the world. "You got this, girl."
She was the one who heard my stories, believed in the idea and in me, and saw the forest when I could only see trees. She helped me integrate my wide ranging skills, interests and passions and roll it all into one. And she believed. Katherine nudged me along, gently but persistently, and didn't give up no matter how tentative I was. She kept the candle burning for me during some dark and uncertain times. I'm grateful to Katherine for her 'story coaching' but for much more than that--for her love and friendship.
- Darby Bonomi, Leg Up Performance Coaching
Before I started working with Katherine, I would objectively describe my public speaking as poor. Many times I would wake up in a cold sweat thinking about my next speech. The day of, I would have visions of getting hit by a bus or falling ill with some undesirable disease in the hope of not having to talk.
All of this fundamentally changed for me during my work with Katherine. She is deft at helping you find your story and how your audience is primed to hear from you. This changed my entire thinking about public speaking. I now go into speeches excited and focused on the opportunity to capture an audience and get them excited about what I am saying.
The culmination of our work together was during an end-of-the year speech. I felt excited about the content and confident about my delivery. Afterwards, I received numerous complements on both. I have Katherine to thank for this. It was the best year of coaching I could have ever hoped for.
- Matt Horvat, Head of School, The Overlake School
After 20+ years in the same profession I was ready for a change and I sought Katherine’s advice in how to ’tell my story’ in this new chapter. I needed help connecting the dots between my past experience, my core values and beliefs, and my new direction, so I signed up for one of her small-group workshops. This started the process of getting perspective and clarity on my career path as well as my underlying values and beliefs and key stories that reflect who I am. It was great experience and I loved the small group workshop setting, but I felt like I needed more. In short, I was still feeling unsure about this new direction and needed more coaching and support as I put the pieces in place to launch my business.
On a very practical level, I needed content for my website and an updated LinkedIn profile. Katherine helped with all of it. We worked one-on-one and she was wonderful in listening to key themes and helping me make sense of my path and how to communicate it to others. She was warm, open, honest and super responsive and encouraging. I needed a partner and an ally in this new phase of work and life and I found it in Katherine. I am very appreciative!
- Laura Foulke, Sparrow Educational Consulting
I was trying to write my About Me page for my new business and was stuck. I was referred to Katherine and immediately, she totally got me. In fact, she pushed me in ways that nobody ever has. The process was engaging and fun versus overwhelming and frustrating. She helped me find my authentic voice -- without ever even meeting me in person! Check it out.
- Sarah Wachs, Fundraising Consultant
Katherine has a magical way of bringing out one’s authentic self. Applying to a handful of top graduate business schools, I was tasked with telling my unique story through countless essays. I had no idea where to even start. Katherine asked all the right questions - she prompted me to reflect on my life and experiences, and dig deep into things that mattered the most to me. With her help, I was able to piece together meaningful, scattered points of my life into one cohesive story - all while having fun!
She listens, supports, and connects with people in such an invaluable and powerful way. Katherine has an ability to make anyone feel comfortable, yet vulnerable. I never once felt like I had to put my guards up or fear judgement, as I opened up about my life experiences. I am beyond grateful to have worked with Katherine throughout my MBA application process and am even more grateful for her support and friendship!
- Priscilla Luu, Priscilla got into 3 schools and received 2 full-ride offers
I was asked to officiate at my goddaughter’s wedding, and I wanted it to be a heartfelt reflection of their love and values. I had so much great raw material, both from them and their families and a good framework, but I needed it to really sing.
Katherine was the one call I made. After 20 years of developing presentations for executives and coaching them on presentation delivery, I needed an expert myself, one with both head and heart. Katherine was able to edit my ceremony notes and make them come to life, and, in doing so, build my confidence and enthusiasm for this new role. The ceremony was what we’d all hoped for—personal and powerful.
- Tricia Stone, Founding Partner, Stone Communications
Katherine has truly transformed our Draper Richards Kaplan Annual Retreat. For the past 5 years, Katherine has coached over 100 of our entrepreneurs to develop, prepare and deliver an exit speech that encapsulates their three-year journey of working with our foundation.
Rather than spewing data, Katherine works with each entrepreneur to tell their story, focusing on the life events that called them to this work and keeps them focused and motivated. There are moments of triumph as well as tears as they deliver their stories and there is not a dry eye in the audience as well.
We are so grateful to Katherine for working with our entrepreneurs to make these speeches the highlight of our retreat, to share our culture of vulnerability, and create a bond of intimacy in the conference that make it a transformative event.
- Robin Donohoe, Founder, DRK Foundation
We recently enlisted Katherine's help for a major fundraising event and with her guidance, two of our young, inexperienced speakers were able to craft presentations that were personal, sincere, and focused, and presented with a confidence and passion that had a huge impact on the audience and our fundraising efforts.
Katherine's methods are remarkable in the way she works WITH you rather than FOR you. When the work is done, you feel like you just participated in a transformative, co-creative process that honors the knowledge and experiences you bring to the table, while, at the same time, introduces new concepts and strategies that stay with you.
She was just as impactful working with our Executive Director--an experienced, polished presenter--who, after working with Katherine, gave his strongest presentation ever. We're so thankful that we were introduced to Katherine. We look forward to working with her for years to come.
- E Griffin-Ortiz, Director of Development, Digital NEST, Inc.
Your guidance helped me be more vulnerable, which I think helped people to connect.
- Dr. Ari Johnson, Founder, MUSO
Working with Katherine was a true joy. She created a very safe space where I felt comfortable to explore what I wanted to say…and helped me craft my message in a way that allowed me to more fully connect with everyone in the room.
For the first time, our guests understood the essence of what makes our organization so special. We raised an additional 40% from the previous year…and, most importantly, we inspired people to get involved. Katherine is an amazing force.
- Jane Sacarro, Former CEO, Kesem National
In this deeply moving talk, my client Lucy Kalanithi shares her story and reflects on life and loss. Her husband Paul Kalanithi wrote NYT Bestselling book When Breath Becomes Air.