Meet Karen Hale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Hale.

Hi Karen, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
As a high school senior in 1968, I dreamed of becoming an on-air news personality. I wanted to be Jane Pauley—before Jane Pauley was even on the scene. But my parents had other plans. They offered to pay for college only if I pursued a teaching degree. So, I entered college under the guise of following their dream, while quietly carving out my own. I earned a two-year degree in communications. Needless to say, Mom and Dad weren’t thrilled—and they refused to fund the rest of my education.
At the same time, I was newly engaged to my first husband, who was about to begin dental school. I knew I’d be supporting him through his journey, so mine shifted. I took a job as a secretary—though calling myself the worst secretary in the world wouldn’t be far off. My typing was clumsy, my dictation worse, and eventually, I was fired. That failure cracked something open in me.
I began searching for my purpose. I earned my certification as a dental assistant and worked in the field for a while, but it never felt like it was right especially after my divorce. Slowly, I started focusing on work that made me feel whole, that made me smile. It took over thirty years to find my true calling.
Here’s what I’ve learned: you’re never too old to chase a dream. The obstacles aren’t roadblocks—they’re steppingstones. Each one leads you closer to your happy place.
Just before my 60th birthday, while working in Higher Education and pursuing my master’s in communication, I discovered podcasting. I didn’t fully understand it, or where it would take me, but I knew it was my chance to finally become an on-air personality. I dove in headfirst, learning unfamiliar software and hardware, determined to make it mine. A friend once asked, “Who do you think will listen to your podcasts?” My answer was simple: It only takes one listener to be heard.
Since launching my first podcast, I haven’t looked back. I’ve honed the art of meaningful conversation—inviting guests to share their journeys, which so often mirror the experiences of those listening. Podcasting became more than a platform; it became a pathway to connection, compassion, and ultimately, to my life coaching certification.
Together, life coaching and podcasting have given me purpose. As I guide others toward clarity and empowerment, I continue to uncover new tools for my own growth. This journey has taught me one of life’s most vital lessons: my happiness is my responsibility. It’s not up to my husband, my children, my friends, or my family to make me smile. Living fully is my job—and mine alone.
Today, I’m proud to be a podcast host and producer. I’ve become proficient in blogging, and I fuel my spirit by offering guidance through storytelling. At 60, I wondered if I was too old to begin again. But now, at 75, I know I’m just hitting my stride.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running my own business has been anything but easy. From booking guests and recording episodes to managing social media, doing research, handling finances, and sacrificing time with family and friends—it’s a constant juggling act. The struggle is real. But through it all, I’ve learned the power of intentionality. When I slow down and make space for what truly matters, I reconnect with myself. That inner space is sacred. And I’ve come to understand that self-care isn’t optional—it’s essential. It’s the foundation that keeps me grounded, creative, and able to show up fully for others.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a podcaster my specialty is sharing stories, the journeys of my guests, that will resonate with my listeners. I choose guests that I can align with it as I want the conversation to be authentic. I rarely work off anything more than my guests bio. I allow them to take me and my listeners down their path and ask authentic questions to emphasis where they are leading us.
I’m known for showing up as my authentic self—and for creating space where others feel safe to do the same. I listen deeply, ask thoughtful questions, and gently encourage my guests to share their truth.
My accomplishments are rooted in persistence. I don’t give up. I keep exploring new angles, new voices, and new methods to support both my own growth and the growth of others. I believe in the power of words—and in the importance of asking questions when something isn’t clear. We all have a voice, and every story deserves to be heard. That’s the heartbeat of my work.

What’s next?
My intention is to keep expanding my voice—welcoming guests who resonate with my style, and those who challenge it. I believe growth happens in dialogue, especially when perspectives differ. I want my listeners to feel seen, even in moments of disagreement, and to recognize that sharing, listening, and learning are always possible when we lead with curiosity and respect.

Pricing:

• $25 per life coaching session – one price to remain affordable to all
• $50 + to produce a regular podcast with newclevelandradio.net

Contact Info:

• Website: https://newclevelandradio.net
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wernotjustcleveland/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kiki1one
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khnewclevelandradio/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NewClevelandRadio
• Other: https://substack.com/@kikione1?utm_source=user-menu