Helping Filipino Immigrant Nurses Build Authentic Confidence and Empowered Lives
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 put everyone’s needs 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”
And you wonder:
Will I always be the one who stays quiet?
Will my contributions stay unnoticed?
Will my true potential stay 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 knows she’s meant for more—whether that’s stepping into leadership in the hospital, creating a purpose-driven business or living life on her own terms.
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. Maybe 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 for sure 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. That same compassion and dedication you give to others—you can give yoursel, too.
As a Mindset and Empowerment Coach, I help Filipino immigrant nurses build that kind of authentic confidence—navigating self-doubt, finding their voice, and learning to advocate for themselves wit clarity, courage and self-trust. Whether you're building a purpose-driven business, stepping into a leadership role, or simply ready to stop shrinking yourself to fit expectations, this is your time.
No more waiting. No more playing small. No more silencing your dreams.
It’s time to make your voice just as powerful as your care.
And it starts by choosing yourself.
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 authentic 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 and create a life that reflects who you are.
My coaching blends Mindset Empowerment principles with the transformative tools of Spiritual Psychology, LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, and Gallup CliftonStrengths—all grounded in a deep understanding of Filipino culture, values, and the unique experiences 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 you were always meant to lead.
From Cultural Silence to Confident Leadership
Mindset and Empowerment Coaching for Filipino Immigrant Nurses Ready to Speak Up, Embrace Their Power, and Create the Career, Business and Life 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 beneath the surface—ready to shine but held back by the daily pressures of work and family.
You're not alone. We're strong, we're resilient, and capable beyond measure. But even the strongest among us sometimes need support to see—and trust—their own brilliance.
With Gallup CliftonStrengths, you’ll discover your innate talents and learn to leverage them for greater confidence, professional success and personal fulfillment
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.
“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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