About Karen
Karen is an author, activism & leadership coach, speaker & photographer.
My latest book, The Lightmaker’s Manifesto: How to Work for Change Without Losing Your Joy, is all about how activism and joy aren’t mutually exclusive; they may, in fact, be inextricable. My bestselling book, The Beauty of Different, is a chronicle of observations that what makes us different makes us beautiful -- and may even be the source of our superpowers.
As a consultant and coach, I use empirical, research-based principles of courage, vulnerability, authenticity and positive psychology, to help activists, sustainability professionals, diversity, equity & inclusion executives, and nonprofit entrepreneurs do good and make light. I do this by helping people build leadership, empathy and communication skills, through coaching sessions, keynotes, courses and books, all so that they can change the world.
I'm a sought-after keynote and TEDx speaker, and have spoken around the United States and abroad to individuals and organizations on the topics of leadership development, the magic of creativity, the valuing of cultural and racial diversity and inclusion, and the power of social media.
And finally, as an avid photographer and journaler, I use creative exercises to help clients discover their own their gifts and superpowers, and how to use them in a way that allows them to thrive.
“Karen inspires us to claim our voices and own the parts of us that make us authentic, beautiful and strong.”
— Brené Brown, New York Times Bestselling Author
AUTHOR
Books.
I've written and contributed to several books, all of which inspire you to look inwardly, rather than outwardly, for the truth. My book, The Beauty of Different, features the portraits and stories of people who have discovered their superpowers and learned to thrive, against all odds. In addition, I've contributed both essays and photographs to other publications, on subjects that include both faith and expression. Each of my writings illustrate and remind us all that our uniqueness, skills and stories have the power to connect in the most beautifully different ways.
My new book, The Lightmaker’s Manifesto, is available now!
“Karen Walrond can see beauty like nobody else. And spending time with her camera lens — and her voice — shows the rest of us how to see it, too.”
— Katherine Center
New York Times bestselling author of The Lost Husband, How to Walk Away, and Things You Save in a Fire
“She asks the type of questions that will get you moving toward the answers you’re seeking. Trust me — Karen’s the real deal.”
— A’Driane Nieves, artist & activist
Coach
One-on-one coaching, consulting, ecourses & retreats.
I'm the former Chief Counsel of Landmark Graphics Corporation, one of the largest software companies in the oil and gas industry, as well as the former Chief of Staff of Halliburton Energy Services, a Fortune 200 corporation. I am a Certified Daring to Lead™ Facilitator, having been trained in Brené Brown's work on vulnerability, courage, shame-resilience and worthiness, including the teachings of the research underpinning her New York Times Bestselling books, Daring Greatly, Rising Strong. and Dare to Lead. I'm also trained in positive psychology coaching from the Wholebeing Institute, using the science of well-being and research-based assessments and interventions to bring about greater satisfaction, purpose and fulfillment in life.
In addition, as a self-taught photographer (and journaling evangelist), I use creativity and self-expression to help clients from all walks of life discover their own their gifts and superpowers, develop their leadership skills, and learn how to use them in a way that allows them to thrive.
“She’s an inspiring and empowering speaker. What a phenomenal woman!”
— Nyasha Smith, Attorney and Co-Founder of Blogalicious Social Media Conference
SPEAKER
Keynotes and workshops.
I am a sought-after keynote speaker on topics including self-empowerment, creativity and innovation, leadership, ethics and diversity. I've spoken at corporations, high schools, universities, professional legal and medical organizations and many other audiences around the country. My TEDxHouston talk on the subject of resonance and "looking for the light" has reached over 95,000 viewers, and counting. Audiences value my ability to connect through storytelling and vivid imagery, while providing concrete solutions that individuals and organizations can easily implement in their lives.
“I’m feeling like I’ve ‘met’ a kindred spirit who will push me to become more of who I am and want to be ...”
— iTunes Review
BLOGGER & PODCASTER
Chookooloonks & The Make Light Show.
It’s one thing to talk about “making light” in the abstract, and it’s another thing entirely to actually go out in the world and do it. Dig in to Chookooloonks, the blog where I share my own personal experiences in exploring ways I can practice gratitude, do good in the world and take care of myself and my family; also, check out The Make Light Show, where I provide even more concrete tips and tricks to add meaning and purpose to your life and work.
Contact
Let’s Connect
If you'd like me to work with me, you can reach me at:
Karen Walrond
Chookooloonks Media LLC
650 W. Bough, Suite 150-108
Houston, Texas 77024
United States of America
Or simply click the button below to land directly in my inbox.