Meet Karen - The Talk Shop

Kia ora koutou, e te Iwi. I’m Karen, a Professional Coach, now based in Taranaki, New Zealand.

Ko Whakapuanake te maunga. Ko Wairoa te awa. Ko Takitimu te waka. Ko Ngaati Kahungunu te iwi.

My professional focus is developing New Zealand’s leadership talent pool. I provide powerful support to leaders at the front line of organisations shaping our future.

The revered whakatuaki “Ko te kai a te rangatira, he kōrero” informs and underpins the Talk Shop offering to nourish and grow our nation’s leadership talent through deep engagement. Talk (dialogue) is the sustenance of chiefs.

Why coaching?

Having navigated more than a fair share of life’s ups and downs, I’ve earnt a black belt in All Terrain Survival. Deeply I know that the tough stuff in life can be a doorway to our most powerful growth. I’ve learnt to see in the dark and now, post-Covid, being right in close with leaders committed to building a more just, caring and prosperous society is my sole focus. I’m all about my impact amplifying your impact.

30 plus years’ experience as an organisation development practioner, professional coach and facilitator in the Corporate dojo. I’ve helped a wide range of leaders cut through and get some big stuff sorted for New Zealand. I have developed strong repeat business and a national reputation in my field.
Closer to home I’ve coached teams in every corner of the country – from marae kitchens, school board meetings, timber yards, farming businesses, universities, science organisations, local councils to community project groups.
Iwi-side I have supported a range of whānau, hapu and iwi collectives and businesses to shape and command their futures.
Prior to all that I was a successful primary school teacher who promoted quickly and went on train school principals, teachers and boards of trustees across New Zealand.
I bring elements of Te Ao Maori and bicultural lens – modern New Zealand life requires no less. I’m a Tiriti educator.
Most of my working life has been in New Zealand but I have also had the privilege of supporting businesses, communities and education systems in fourteen other countries.

What training and qualifications do you have?

Trained as a professional coach, supervisor and primary school teacher
Training in a range of team and personality assessment tools and in Non-Violent Communication
Bachelor of Education and Advanced Diploma in Teaching
Currently training in a range of relaxation and well-being therapies. Certified Cranio-Sacral Therapist.
Qualified on the Public Service Commission coaching panel rated to Chief Executive level.

Kapai you! I love your work . If you are looking for coaching I am happy to recommend Karen. I have known and worked with her for over 30 years.

Karen Clarke, The Talk Shop, Coach, Leadership support, Coaching, Professional support, The Talk Shop NZ

Dr Kathie Irwin

Kathie Irwin & Associates

Why coaching?

What training and qualifications do you have?

Karen Clarke

Contact Karen