277 - Brutally Honest (Part 2) with Kathryn Ducey

Kathryn Ducey is back for a second part to her discussion with Jill in episode 276! Picking up where they left off, Kathryn (or Ducey, as Jill calls her) unpacks more of her inspiring, transformative journey. From a public shaming incident at H&M to her eventual rise as a successful coach, she reflects on her experiences of overcoming shame, taking on personal struggles, and embracing her true self. Their conversation touches on themes of self-awareness, personal growth, and the realization that life is not always a linear path.

Listen in as Kathryn opens up about her past, revealing how a brush with authority and personal challenges formed her perspectives on things like success and identity. She explains the profound impact of her decision to leave the corporate world and transition into coaching and how her own vulnerability became the foundation for helping others. The discussion also explores the emotional complexities of Kathryn’s journey, including the difficult moments of self-doubt, the important role that intuition plays, and the lessons learned from balancing personal and professional life.

While Kathryn details some raw moments of struggle, there are also moments of humor and reflection, with Jill and Kathryn discussing how vulnerability, imperfection, and life’s unpredictable twists often lead to the biggest changes. Tune in for the conclusion of a brutally honest conversation reflection on not only Kathryn’s own journey but also on the universal journey of embracing who you really are so that you can be YOU!

Also, don’t forget that tickets are now on sale for a Be YOU event on October 25, 2025 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, celebrating the podcast's five-year anniversary. The four-hour women's empowerment experience includes immersive activities; a live podcast recording, and a focus on authentic leadership, with early bird pricing available until June 1st! Two ticket options are available, including a VIP experience, and the event is expected to sell out quickly, so grab your ticket(s) now at jillherman.com/beyou!

Show Notes:

[02:00] - Kathryn reflects on having been publicly handcuffed after getting caught shoplifting at H&M in Toronto.
[05:43] - Despite becoming a coach, Kathryn admits that she still occasionally craves the thrill of risk-taking.
[06:48] - People often choose careers that are based on unresolved personal wounds.
[08:00] - Kathryn describes reinventing herself from advertising to recruitment, betting on her potential.
[11:29] - Even though she was succeeding professionally, Kathryn still struggled with debt and problematic relationships.
[13:42] - Kathryn reveals that despite experiencing anxiety, she never felt deeply depressed or hopeless.
[15:46] - Kathryn became head of HR at a prominent ad agency, but the role lasted only twelve weeks.
[18:23] - Kathryn teaches her clients to reconnect with intuition by observing bodily sensations when making decisions.
[20:14] - Hear about how Kathryn took an impulsive trip to Los Angeles after feeling an intuitive urge to go.
[23:45]  - Kathryn met Leo in Los Angeles, and he encouraged her to embrace her natural curly hair.
[26:07] - After Leo's encouragement, Kathryn stopped straightening her hair and embraced her natural curls.
[28:25] - As head of HR, Kathryn prioritized building relationships over traditional policy work.
[30:34] - Hear all about how, despite earning respect, Kathryn was eventually fired for not meeting conventional HR expectations.
[32:58] - After being fired, Kathryn decided to pursue coaching, embracing her natural talent and passion.
[35:03] - Jill reflects on how her coaching success was driven by intuition and a lack of self-doubt.
[36:34] - Kathryn recalls how her unique coaching approach and authentic connection led to her rapid growth.
[39:44] - Kathryn's success has ultimately stemmed from a real place and a passion for helping others.
[40:11] - Kathryn shares how building a community first led to business growth and success.
[43:22] - Listen to Kathryn reflect on how marriage challenged her emotionally, teaching her humility and growth.
[45:55] - Life experience significantly shapes one's coaching style and perspective.
[48:02] - Kathryn has committed to personal growth after her marriage, adopting a disciplined routine.
[50:25] - Following a very difficult post-separation period, Kathryn reconciled with her parents and moved back home.
[53:12] - Kathryn’s vulnerability has helped reawakened Jill's mother’s nurturing instincts.
[56:28] - Hear how hardship shaped Jill's perspective, making her a more resilient coach.
[59:04] - Hear all about how Kathryn embraced a motherly role for her partner’s daughters, finding purpose and fulfillment.
[1:02:16] - Kathryn is launching a podcast to share her raw, unfiltered journey and to inspire others!
[1:05:22] - Jill encourages listeners to support Kathryn’s new podcast by leaving reviews and sharing it!
[1:08:08] - Kathryn offers personal pep talks, highlighting honesty and motivation to pursue one’s dreams.

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