Founder Interview With Katelyn Curran, Curran Compass Coaching
Katelyn Curran, the Founder of Curran Compass Coaching, is a symbol of resilience and empowerment. Through her unique coaching method, she aims to transform trauma survivors into thrivers, drawing on her own journey of overcoming trauma. Her approach is distinctive and empathetic, focusing on personal growth and helping clients move beyond survival to lead fulfilling lives. Curran Compass Coaching is not just about navigating trauma; it's about learning how to build a brighter, more empowered future.
During our interview with Katelyn, we dive into her personal and professional journey. She opened up about the challenges and triumphs of her path, from her early days in rural Florida to establishing her innovative coaching practice. Katelyn shared the inspirations behind her approach, her experiences as an LGBTQ+ service provider, and how her personal identity shapes her work. Her insights offer a compelling look into the life of someone who has turned adversity into a source of strength, not only for herself but for the people she coaches.
Can you walk us through your professional journey and how you got to where you are today?
My professional journey is deeply intertwined with my personal story. I grew up in rural Florida and was homeschooled. After high school, at 19, I became a single mom, a pivotal moment that propelled me into my entrepreneurial journey. Shortly after turning 21, I launched a cleaning business, applying skills I learned from my mother. This business was a part of my life for a decade, however, my true calling was always in helping others.
My own experiences as a thriver of childhood abuse and life's traumas have been the driving force behind this calling. It was never just about finding a career; it was about finding the right path to make a meaningful impact. This desire led me to start my podcast, "Healing Echoes," where I explore themes of rebuilding life after trauma and abuse. The podcast is not just a platform to share my experiences but also a gateway that introduced me to the world of trauma-informed coaching. I realized that this was where I could combine my personal insights and deep passion for helping others, ultimately leading me to become a coach.
What inspired you to offer the services you provide?
What led me to the work I do now was seeing how many people needed help in their healing journeys. Trauma is so varied, and there's a whole world of healing methods out there, which can be pretty overwhelming. People often don't know where to start or what will work best for them. This pushed me towards offering services that are really tailored to each person's unique story and struggles. In my practice, I put a lot of emphasis on helping clients create boundaries and manage triggers, as these are common hurdles in overcoming trauma. One of the main tools I swear by is journaling – it's incredibly effective for personal breakthroughs and growth. My goal is to combine all these elements to provide a clear, nurturing path for healing that's specifically designed for each individual's needs and journey.
What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your journey as a service provider, and what did you do to overcome this?
One of the biggest challenges has been overcoming feelings of not being good enough. I often questioned my qualifications, thinking, "Who am I to coach anyone? I don't have a Ph.D. or extensive college education." This doubt was a hurdle, but I realized that while I may not have certain certifications, I possess something equally valuable: first-hand knowledge and experience, coupled with a commitment to continual learning. I have also found therapy to be a powerful tool.
“It's crucial to acknowledge that even coaches and therapists can benefit from having their own therapists or mentors for their personal development.”
And I lean on affirmations, particularly mirror affirmations, to help reinforce my self-worth. Along with building a supportive community where I can be open and authentic.
If you could give one piece of advice to future LGBTQ+ service providers within your field, what would it be?
If I can offer one piece of advice it would be to prioritize self-work above all. It's crucial to be in a good place yourself in order to provide the best possible service to your clients. The energy you bring into your work speaks volumes. Think of it this way – you can't pour from an empty cup. Being effective in leading and assisting others requires you to come from a place of personal fulfillment and health. Taking care of yourself is not just important, it's essential. It empowers you to assist others more effectively, with a foundation of strength and authenticity.
How does being openly queer inspire or impact your business?
Being openly queer has had a significant and positive impact on my business. It lets potential clients know that I provide a safe and understanding space for everyone, which is particularly important for queer individuals facing trauma. This aspect of my identity has been a key factor in how people approach me. Clients often come to me specifically because we’re both a part of the LGBTQ+ community, which fosters a deeper level of comfort and understanding based on my own firsthand experiences and knowledge. Being openly queer not only helps clients feel safe but also has given me the opportunity to build meaningful connections with other coaches or queer folks.
What brands or services by LGBTQ+ founders are your go-to's and why?
Equator Coffee is one of my favorite LGBTQ+ owned businesses. It's honestly some of the best coffee I have ever had. I definitely recommend!
Woxer is another company that really stands out for me. They offer gender affirming products which are really cute.
Who is your favorite LGBTQ+ celebrity and why?
One of my favorite LGBTQ+ celebrities is Miley Cyrus. Throughout her career she has been judged and misunderstood. However, she still embraces her true self and is loud about who she is which has always inspired me.
Can you share one fun fact about yourself?
One fun fact is that I love to dance and sing, occasionally bursting into either at any given moment. An unforgettable moment was when one of my children and I started dancing together in the Walmart parking lot, during a rain shower. People might have thought we were strange, but for me, it's about embracing joy rather than leading a life that's mundane.