About
Hi, I’m Kim!
I’m a certified (solo) life coach, writer, speaker, and former C-level executive. I help women thrive in independent life—because I love it, I live it, and I’m good at it.
Why I Started Courageously Independent
For years, I’ve heard the same thing from women everywhere: “I’m scared to be alone,” “I don’t know how to do this” or, “I feel lonely, unhappy, even ashamed”. It hurts my heart every time I hear it, but I get it—I’ve been there!
The truth is, being ‘alone’ (an ugly word that is likely triggering you right now 😉 can be one of the most empowering, joyful choices we make. Whether we make it inside or outside of a relationship. The world makes women feel like being on their own over 40 is a sad circumstance we should remedy, but the truth is, it’s a choice that almost half of women over 40 are readily making.
When a friend once told me that she saved my contact as “Courageously Independent,” it sparked an already deep seeded passion: I want to create a place, a program, and resources where women over 40—like me—can choose independence in all forms and thrive because of it.
My Ugly Beginnings
Twelve years ago, my world imploded. I came home after a weekend away to find all my things hidden—no trace of me left in the home I shared with my partner for the last 13 years (wince). What I did find… was another woman’s hair tie in my shower (WTF!).
I was devastated and scared, convinced I couldn’t live without him. Then, something unexpected happened—my mindset shifted and I saw it all in a new light. The fairytale I’d been selling myself wasn’t actually true!
I went from feeling helpless to empowered, and as my ex texted to make up, I realized something shocking: I didn’t want him back. I wanted more, I wanted to focus on me.
So after saying goodbye to him for good, I began rediscovering who I was. I learned tools and strategies to manage fear, sadness, and loneliness. I invested in building a healthy relationship with myself. And, just weeks later, I took a solo road trip from the West Coast to the Midwest followed by a four-month solo trip around the world. I partied after-hours in London, meditated at an ashram in India, trekked in Nepal, snuck into a private club in Hong Kong, and hooked up with a Londoner in Tokyo😉.
The best part? I met countless other amazing solo female travelers along the way and realized something transformative: alone doesn’t mean lonely. It means Life. Confidence. Adventure. Freedom. And, most of all, connection with yourself.
Becoming Courageously Independent
Soon after, as I continued to work on my relationship with myself, with others, and navigate both the ups and downs of independent life, I landed my dream job as a C-level executive. I continued to travel (solo), I mastered my finances, I started a new business, and I bought my own home.
I started fresh in a town where I knew no one, building a community of friends and neighbors who later saw me through the utter devastation of Hurricane Helene—when Asheville was left with no water, electricity, cell service–no help yet on the way.
I now regularly hike the Appalachians alone, take myself out to dinner, and love the solo (not ‘alone’) life I’ve created.
No life is perfect (mine included), but I have deeper, more lasting friendships than I ever imagined and I’ve learned how to tap into myself for wisdom, love and support. I’m genuinely more happy than ever.
Through it all, I’ve uncovered the truth about why so many women are choosing to live alone in midlife and beyond—and I’ve discovered the common threads that set those who thrive apart.
I’ve built women’s groups to help others find connection and strength. As a certified life coach, I use my personal experiences, learning, and training to help other women feel confident, connected, and capable on their own.
I live courageously independent every day, and I love my solo story. It’s my passion to help other women discover and love theirs too.
About Courageously Independent
Courageously Independent is more than just coaching, media, and information—it’s a movement. It’s a celebration of freedom, strength, and joy when you live life on your own terms. Whether you’re navigating life after a breakup, stepping into independence for the first time, or redefining what happiness solo looks like for you, this is a space for inspiration, empowerment, and practical tools and support.
Through my coaching, blog, and social platforms, I share the highs and lows of solo living, offer strategies for thriving independently, and support and help guide women on their journeys. I collaborate with others who share this vision to amplify the message: Alone isn’t an ugly word, we are reinventing it! Choosing to embrace your independence is courageous, bold, and beautiful—and it opens the door to a life filled with connection, community, joy, and self-discovery.
Join me and so many others, on our journey to Courageously Independent.
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