“Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about embracing them, learning from them, and emerging stronger on the other side. True growth happens when we step out of our comfort zones and into our potential.”

– Laura Burkey

In a world where personal growth and professional success often feel at odds, Laura Burkey has made it her mission to bridge the gap. As a renowned leadership coach and speaker, Laura empowers individuals and organizations to navigate challenges, build resilience, and unlock their fullest potential. With a background in corporate leadership and a passion for helping people thrive, Laura brings a wealth of experience and transformative insights to the table. Her journey from the boardroom to coaching has inspired countless individuals to embrace change and lead with authenticity.

In this exclusive interview, Laura shares her strategies for overcoming self-doubt, cultivating resilience, and fostering meaningful connections through effective communication. From actionable advice for leaders to powerful practices for personal balance, Laura’s wisdom offers readers a roadmap for transformation. Whether you’re a leader striving to motivate your team or an individual seeking to break free from limiting beliefs, this conversation is packed with inspiration and tools to help you step into your power and create the life you desire.


Thank you so much for joining us, Laura! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

Thank you for having me! My journey has been one of exploration and transformation. I began my career in corporate leadership, where I was focused on helping teams overcome challenges and achieve their goals. While the work was fulfilling, I realized I was most passionate about the individuals behind the success—their untapped potential, their struggles, and their wins. That realization pushed me to transition into leadership coaching and speaking, where I could focus on helping people build resilience, foster authentic communication, and unlock their true potential. Guiding people through transformation has been the most rewarding part of my career.

What inspired you to transition from corporate leadership to coaching?

It was a blend of personal reflection and observing the challenges people face daily. In the corporate world, I noticed how much potential remained hidden due to self-doubt, lack of resources, or fear of failure. I wanted to create a space where people could explore their strengths, overcome their fears, and take steps toward success. Coaching allows me to dive deep into personal growth, guiding individuals to break past their limitations. It felt like a calling—a natural progression that aligned with my purpose.

Can you share a pivotal moment that shaped your career?

One defining moment was leading a high-stakes project that nearly fell apart due to miscommunication and conflicting priorities. It was a challenging period, but it taught me an invaluable lesson: clear, empathetic communication is the glue that holds a team together. By addressing the core issues, creating an open dialogue, and fostering collaboration, we turned the project around and exceeded expectations. That experience shaped my belief in values-driven leadership and solidified my approach as a coach—helping others build clarity, connection, and confidence in their work.

What are some of the biggest challenges people face when it comes to personal growth?

Fear and self-doubt are two of the biggest obstacles. People are often afraid of failure or judgment, which can paralyze them and keep them from taking risks. Another challenge is a lack of clarity. Without knowing what you truly want or why it matters, it’s easy to feel lost or overwhelmed. I work with clients to help them identify and address these barriers so they can take small, intentional steps forward. It’s incredible how quickly progress happens once they gain clarity and let go of self-imposed limitations.

You’ve worked with many leaders and organizations. What common leadership struggles do you see?

Managing change is one of the most common challenges. Whether it’s organizational or personal, change can feel daunting and disruptive. Leaders are often expected to guide their teams through uncertainty while remaining confident and composed. Another struggle is building trust—not just within teams but also with themselves. Trust requires authenticity, vulnerability, and consistency, which can feel challenging to embody, especially in high-pressure environments. Helping leaders embrace vulnerability and create a culture of trust is a critical part of my work.

What strategies do you recommend for leaders to build resilience?

Resilience starts with self-awareness. Leaders must understand their stress triggers, emotional responses, and coping mechanisms. Developing a growth mindset is also key—viewing challenges as opportunities to learn rather than setbacks. Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling, can help leaders stay centered and focused. Finally, building a strong support network is essential. Resilience isn’t about doing everything on your own—it’s about having the resources and people to help you navigate challenges and emerge stronger.

How do you approach helping clients overcome limiting beliefs?

The first step is identifying the stories they’ve been telling themselves—beliefs rooted in fear, past experiences, or societal expectations. Once we uncover those narratives, we challenge their validity and reframe them. For example, if someone believes they’re not qualified for a promotion, we examine the evidence and work to shift that mindset. Replacing limiting beliefs with empowering ones creates space for growth and success. Watching clients experience these breakthroughs is one of the most fulfilling aspects of coaching.

What role does communication play in personal and professional success?

Communication is everything. It’s how we build relationships, solve problems, and inspire action. Ineffective communication can lead to misunderstandings, conflict, and missed opportunities, while strong communication fosters trust, alignment, and collaboration. Listening is equally important—it’s not just about being heard but also about truly understanding others. In coaching, I emphasize the importance of clear, empathetic, and intentional communication. Mastering these skills can transform not only professional relationships but also personal ones.

How do you define success?

For me, success is about alignment—living and working in a way that reflects your core values and purpose. It’s not about hitting a specific milestone or gaining external validation. True success comes from feeling fulfilled, making a positive impact, and staying true to yourself. When your actions align with your values, you achieve more and find greater joy in the process.

How do you handle setbacks in your own life?

Setbacks are inevitable, but I’ve learned to view them as opportunities to grow. When something doesn’t go as planned, I take time to reflect on what went wrong and what I can learn. It’s important to approach challenges with curiosity instead of self-criticism. This mindset allows me to move forward with greater clarity and resilience. I also rely on my support network and mindfulness practices to stay grounded during difficult times.

What advice would you give someone looking to make a major life change?

Start with clarity. Understand why you want to make the change and what you hope to achieve. Once you have that foundation, break the process into manageable steps and focus on consistent progress rather than perfection. Surround yourself with supportive people, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance from a coach or mentor. Remember, change is a journey—it’s okay to take it one step at a time.

What motivates you to continue your work as a coach and speaker?

My biggest motivation is witnessing the transformations my clients experience. Seeing someone gain confidence, overcome challenges, and achieve goals they once thought were impossible is incredibly rewarding. Each success story reminds me of the impact this work can have, and it inspires me to keep growing and evolving in my approach.

Can you share a success story that stands out?

One client came to me struggling with severe self-doubt and imposter syndrome. She was highly skilled but couldn’t see her own worth. Over time, we worked on reframing her mindset and building her confidence. Eventually, she stepped into a leadership role and began mentoring others. Watching her transformation and the ripple effect it had on her team was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we believe in ourselves.

What habits or practices do you recommend for maintaining balance in life?

Balance is about being intentional with your time and energy. I encourage clients to prioritize self-care, whether that’s through exercise, mindfulness, or spending time with loved ones. Setting boundaries is also essential—learning to say no and protecting your mental and emotional well-being. Practicing gratitude and staying present can help reduce stress and maintain perspective. Balance isn’t about doing everything; it’s about making choices that align with your goals and values.

Are there any books or resources that have deeply influenced your approach?

Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead has been incredibly influential, especially in understanding the power of vulnerability in leadership. Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now emphasizes mindfulness and presence, which are key elements in personal and professional growth. These books have provided valuable insights that I incorporate into both my coaching and my life.

What’s next for you in your career?

I’m excited to expand my speaking engagements and create new leadership programs focused on resilience and authentic communication. I’m also working on a book that will share my journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. My goal is to reach more people and inspire meaningful change in their lives and careers.

What legacy do you hope to leave through your work?

I want to leave a legacy of empowerment. My mission is to help people unlock their potential, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful change. If my work inspires even one person to step into their power and make a positive impact, I’ll consider it a success.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

Readers can connect with me on my website, https://lauraburkeycoaching.com/, where I share resources, blog posts, and information about my coaching programs. I’m also active on LinkedIn and Instagram, where I post tips, insights, and motivational content. I’d love for your readers to join the conversation and continue exploring their potential!

Thank you so much for sharing your incredible insights and experiences with us, Laura. Your passion for empowering others and fostering personal and professional growth is truly inspiring. I know our readers will take so much value from this conversation.

Thank you, Stacey! It’s been an absolute pleasure to speak with you and share my journey. I’m grateful for the opportunity to connect with your readers, and I hope they feel encouraged to step into their own potential and create meaningful change in their lives.

Laura Burkey is a leadership coach, speaker, and transformation expert dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. With a background in corporate leadership, Laura has spent her career helping people navigate challenges, build resilience, and lead with authenticity. Her passion lies in guiding clients to overcome self-doubt, embrace change, and create meaningful, values-driven success in both their personal and professional lives.

Author(s)

  • Stacey Chillemi

    A renowned 20 Times Best-Selling Author, Speaker, Coach & Podcaster

    The Advisor With Stacey Chillemi

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