Coaching for Filipino Immigrant Nurses Who’ve Stayed Quiet Too Long
From Self-doubt to Speaking Up: Overcome Imposter Syndrome without changing who you are
You've worked tirelessly, cared deeply, and supported everyone around you. You take care of patients with compassion, lift up colleagues when they struggle, send money to your family in the Philippines, and ensure everyone's needs are met before your own.
But when it comes to advocating for yourself—whether it’s speaking up in a meeting, setting boundaries with coworkers, saying “no” without guilt, or asking for what you rightfully deserve—something holds you back. The words catch in your throat. The confidence fades. The cultural voices whispering “stay humble,” “don’t rock the boat,” and “don’t be too much” get louder than your own.
And you wonder if you'll always be the one who stays quiet, whose contributions go unnoticed, whose potential remains unseen.
I get it—because I’ve lived it, too.
I’m a nurse, just like you, walking this path while holding space for others to do the same.
This is for the nurse who's ready to step into leadership—whether that’s in the hospital or through a purpose-driven business.
This space is here for you, if you’re ready to speak up, honor your needs, and finally let yourself be seen.
Not by becoming someone else, but by coming home to who you already are.

Maybe it’s cultural conditioning. Maybe it’s personal. Perhaps it’s the fear of being seen as too much or not enough. So, you stay quiet, hoping your hard work will speak for itself.
Except… 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 about your needs and wants with grace and love.
Imagine feeling as confident speaking up as you do when caring for a patient. I help Filipino immigrant nurses build that kind of confidence—navigating self-doubt, finding their voice, and learning to advocate for themselves without guilt or fear of judgment. Whether you're building a purpose-driven business, stepping into a leadership role, or simply ready to stop shrinking yourself, this is your time.
No more waiting.
No more playing small.
Let’s make your voice just as powerful as your care.
Hi, I’m Karen Retardo, MA, BSN, RN
Professional Coach for Filipino Immigrant Nurses
I specialize in coaching Filipino immigrant nurses who are ready to find their voice and speak up with confidence—at work, in their relationships, and in their next chapter, whether that’s advancing in leadership or building a purpose-driven business.
Since 2021, I’ve been supporting incredible women like you in transforming self-doubt into self-trust, so you can advocate for yourself without guilt and lead with quiet strength.
My coaching blends Spiritual Psychology, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, and Gallup CliftonStrengths—all grounded in a deep understanding of Filipino culture, values, and the unique challenges we face as immigrants.
I believe every act of self-advocacy is an act of self-love.
And I’d be honored to walk alongside you as you step into a career, business, and life that feels deeply yours.
From Cultural Silence to Professional Confidence
Tailored Coaching for Filipino Nurses Ready to Speak Up, Embrace Their Power, and Build the Career or Business They Truly Desire
My Services
My Services
Gallup CliftonStrengths with 1-hr debrief Session
As a Filipino immigrant nurse, do you ever feel like your true potential is just waiting to shine through? Balancing work, family, and the distinct challenges of being a Filipino nurse in a foreign country can be overwhelming.
You're not alone. We're strong, we're resilient, and deep down, you know you're capable of achieving great things, but sometimes, we need a little help to tap into our zone of genius.
With Gallup CliftonStrengths, you’ll discover your innate talents and learn to leverage them for professional success and personal fulfillment as you navigate life in a new country.
Tailor Your Journey 1:1 Coaching
You feel like you’re living in two worlds—you're driven, ambitious, and ready to conquer the world, but there’s a nagging voice holding you back. In these bespoke coaching sessions, we’ll address your specific challenges using strengths, play, inner child healing and trauma-informed therapeutic coaching.
Say YES to my newsletter, and I’ll teach you 8 scripts for saying “no” without feeling guilty.
What you get: “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.