Not sure if Career Advancement or Nursepreneur Track
is right for you?
Career Advancement & Business Coach for Filipino Nurses Who Are Ready to Stop Playing Small
You're Ready to Be Seen. You're Ready to Be Heard.
It's Time to Lead—Without Losing Yourself.
Maybe it's cultural conditioning.
Maybe it's personal.
Maybe it's the fear of being seen as too much—or not enough.
So you stay quiet—whether it's in the boardroom or when pricing your services—hoping your hard work will speak for itself.
It doesn't.
I see you. I was you.
And I know this: Being kind doesn't mean staying quiet.
You can be both assertive and caring. You can speak up, set boundaries, and own your worth—with grace and love.
You’re Not “Too Quiet.” You’re Caught Between Two Worlds
What They See
“You’re too quiet”
“Be more assertive”
“Why don’t you speak up?”
What You Feel
“Speaking up feels like bragging”
“Success means betraying my values”
“Who am I to want more?”
Western healthcare rewards bold self-promotion. Filipino culture values humility and respect. You’re caught in the middle—-and it’s keeping you invisible
But here's the truth: You don't need to choose between honoring your culture and claiming your power.
Choose Your Path Forward
Whether you're ready to step into leadership or build your own business, I'll help you find your voice
without betraying your values.
"Speak Up & Be Seen"
For nurses who want to:
Become visible and confident at work
Navigate difficult conversations at work and at thome
Build strategic relationships through networkig (specialty associations, PNAA)
Speak up for yourself, patients, policies and your own career—while honoring Filipino values
In 90 days: Complete 5 difficult conversations, experience measurable visibility shifts, and position yourself for leadership opportunities—without changing who you are.
"From Idea to Income"
For nurses who want to:
Build a coaching, consulting, or service-based business
Create income beyond the bedside (without quitting yet)
Navigate family expectations about "leaving stability"
In 90 days: Get your first paying client, create sustainable income, and build a business that truly aligns with who you are.
Other coaches tell you to "just be more assertive." I help you find YOUR authentic voice
Strategic Frameworks
Proven methodologies from Yale Women's Leadership Program, Forbes-recognized career strategies, and business frameworks that actually work for nurses.
Somatic Integration
Clear the nervous system blocks that make your throat close when you need to speak up. Daily practices that help your body feel safe being visible.
Cultural Bridge Work
Reframe advocacy as service (not being "maarte"). Navigate family expectations. Succeed without betraying your roots or your values.
Strategy + Nervous System Healing + Cultural Understanding = Sustainable Transformation
Hi, I’m Karen Retardo, MA, BSN, RN
I've Walked Both Paths—So I Can Guide You Through Yours
I'm a Filipino-American nurse who spent 25+ years in clinical and leadership roles, including Director of Nursing (DON) and Assistant DON positions.
I know what it’s like to stay silent despite having great ideas, watch less-qualified colleagues get promoted, dream of starting a business but hear “stay safe,” and succeed while feeeling guilty about it.
That’s why I became a coach—to help Filipino Nurses find their voice without betraying their values.
Credentials:
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, SLU Baguio City, Philippines
Yale School of Management — Women's Leadership Certification Program Graduate
Certified Amazing Career Coach (Kathy Caprino)
MA in Spiritual Psychology, University of Santa Monica
Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths Coach
LEGO® Serious Play® Coach
My Approach: Evidence-based frameworks + somatic practices + cultural bridge work= transformation that lasts
Ready to Discover Your Next Right Step?
Take the 2-minute quiz and find out if Career Advancement or
Nursepreneur Track is calling your name.
Prefer to talk first? Schedule a free clarity call —>
Ready to Start Speaking Up?
Get my free guide: “The Art of Saying No: How to Set Boundaries with Grace and Confidence.”
This guide is your first step towards mastering the delicate art of establishing healthy boundaries. Sample scripts to help you say “no” with confidence and grace.
Nancy K.
“Before starting the coaching program, I was struggling with a lack of confidence and direction in my life. The sessions provided me with a newfound sense of confidence, teaching me the importance of listening to my body and embracing my right to make decisions that truly reflect my needs and aspirations. What I valued most was the ability to be my authentic self in every session, supported by a coaching style that was engaging, interactive, and nurturing.
A significant milestone for me was gaining the courage to pursue what I desired, even when it meant declining a job offer that didn't meet my expectations, illustrating the confidence and clarity I've gained. The coaching exceeded my expectations through exceptional availability and support, making me feel heard, seen, and valued. This experience has been transformative, and I wholeheartedly recommend Karen’s coaching services to anyone looking to make a profound change in their life.”
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