Karen Vaughn is widely recognized within various professional circles. She successfully transitioned from a healthcare professional to a career in Marketing and Public Relations, boasting an extensive background in her field. Notably, she has collaborated with the Florida Non-Profit Organization, which maintains affiliations with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce.
Karen holds a bachelor’s degree in Marketing Management from Florida Metropolitan University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Mental Health from Phoenix University, underscoring her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. Additionally, she possesses a Diagnostic Medical Sonography degree and has traversed the United States during her medical practice.
In July of 2020, Karen embarked on a significant career move by establishing her consulting marketing company, Kay V Connect LLC. Her journey doesn’t halt there, though, as Karen is presently transitioning into public speaking. She graced the stage at Success Fest 2021 and offered her insights as a panelist during the “Becoming the Best You” event in November 2021.
Karen’s list of achievements extends beyond her professional pursuits. She has recently authored a book titled “The Essence of A Woman,” a remarkable addition to her impressive resume. Her aim in sharing her story is to inspire others, encouraging them to believe in their potential to achieve their goals. Karen is dedicated to motivating and making a positive impact in her community and, eventually, on a global scale.
Her life’s motto, “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them,” encapsulates her philosophy and approach to life. Karen looks forward to her new chapter with enthusiasm and vigor.
We had the opportunity of sitting down Karen to discuss her journey into entrepreneurship, her greatest accomplishments along with her future plans.
When did Karen realize entrepreneurship would become a part of her life’s journey?
When I was 12 years old and in middle school, I used to sell candy and lemonade. It was at that time that I felt a sense of accomplishment in selling something and making money. Although I didn’t fully grasp it at the time, I later realized that it was my first taste of entrepreneurship. At that young age, I began to understand the basics of budgeting, marketing, and customer service.
Can you take us back to your time in healthcare? How did this period in your life prepare you for your current career?
Well, working in healthcare was challenging, especially being on the front lines and caring for critically ill patients. It taught me empathy and resilience. Surprisingly, it also helped me understand mood swings in both children and adults, recognize anxiety symptoms, handle disruptive behaviors, and address negative interpersonal styles. It gave me a better perspective on how negative behaviors can be turned into positive situations. Additionally, it allowed me to analyze my behavior when writing my book, “The Essence of a Woman,” as I now understand why many of those situations occurred—it was a result of my thinking at that particular time in my life.
What inspired your transition into marketing and public relations?
My inspiration to switch careers came when I started organizing events with commercial realtors and city officials. I discovered an adrenaline rush and a deep sense of satisfaction when these events were successful. It was at that point I realized that this was my calling. I thrive in the public arena, enjoy engaging with people, and relish the creativity, relationship-building, learning, and personal growth that come with marketing and public relations.
Looking back over your career, what do you consider your greatest moments?
My greatest moments undoubtedly include working with surgeons and saving lives. However, today, my most significant achievements include speaking on the Black CEO Platform and participating in the Becoming the Best You Mastermind event. Also, being a keynote speaker at the Global Awakened summit in February of this year was a remarkable milestone.
Can you tell us about your brand, Kay V Connect?
Kay V Connect is a consulting company that specializes in building connections, which is crucial in enhancing versatility. We identify solutions and facilitate connections, enabling individuals to benefit from mutual support. These relationships create a mutually beneficial system, where expanding your network also boosts your effectiveness and helpfulness in professional settings. We offer assistance to others, cultivate personal contacts online, and organize company events.
What services are you currently offering with Kay V Connect?
Currently, we offer assistance to others, cultivate personal contacts online, and organize company events. Utilizing a communication platform that naturally connects people fosters stronger teamwork, accelerates team collaboration, and builds a more robust company culture. While this culture can start from the ground up, it can also be nurtured from the top.
Could you tell us about your book, “The Essence of a Woman”? What message do you hope women take away from it?
I wrote “The Essence of a Woman” because I strongly believe that we all need to reconnect with our inner selves and realize that we have the power of choice to shape our destinies. As women, we must recognize our strength and our ability to overcome difficulties and obstacles by relying on our faith and foundational values. Sometimes, our womanhood is tested, especially when facing trials and tribulations. How we respond to these adversities and emerge as better individuals defines our strength.
This book aims to inspire those overwhelmed by obstacles or adversities in their lives. I want to reassure them not to despair, for they are on the path to becoming stronger. I’ve shared what has made me resilient and outlined how to respond effectively to challenges such as feelings of inadequacy, depression, and anxiety, managing the juggling act of marriage, children, and a career, and ultimately, how to become a better version of oneself.
What’s next for you? What can we expect from your platform in the next 2-3 years?
I am currently in the process of writing a second book focused on Mind, Body, and Spirit. I will also be participating in more public speaking events on major platforms and making an appearance in an independent movie set to release in 2024. I firmly believe that you can achieve anything you set your mind to, so stay tuned for the next chapter in my journey.
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