My journey as a coach has been a direct result of my experiences and lessons learned as a leader and change agent throughout my career. I am passionate about coaching as a way to enhance leadership effectiveness and impact during a challenging moment for leaders across many industries. As someone who has held executive leadership roles and experienced coaching as a client, I have found it to be a powerful way to think through problems, self reflect, and lead more effectively. 

My coaching practice incorporates insights from my 25+ years working and leading in higher education, as well as my intercultural and international experiences as a sociocultural anthropologist who has lived and traveled abroad. Drawing on my professional expertise related to identity, culture, and inclusion, I work with my coaching clients to deepen awareness of their unique personal context, attributes, and leadership capabilities. Through team coaching and consulting, I work with groups and organizations to achieve their strategic goals and enhance organizational effectiveness.


Coaching Philosophy

As an executive leadership coach, I am committed to helping leaders transform by aligning with their values and exploring creative possibilities.
— Kia Caldwell

I believe coaching leaders in today’s complex environment is one of the most effective ways to help them thrive, rather than simply survive, and be their best selves, personally and professionally.

If you want to grow as a leader and increase your ability to navigate uncertainty and ambiguity in today’s leadership environment, I would love to work with you! My coaching approach is holistic and addresses the multiple dimensions of leaders’ identities, values, and experiences. During our coaching engagement, we will also explore thought patterns and behaviors that are limiting your full potential.

I enjoy working with values-driven and purpose-centered leaders and C-suite executives across multiple industries, including non-profit organizations, the private sector, and higher education in the U.S. and internationally.


Coaching Certifications and Credentials

  • Georgetown University’s Executive Leadership Coach Training Program, Cohort 89

  • Spiro Coaching Institute’s Academy for Higher Education Coaching

  • Trained as a Positive Intelligence (PQ) Coach

  • Member of the International Coaching Federation

  • Currently completing requirements for Associate Certified Coach (ACC) Certification, International Coaching Federation

  • Graduate of Harvard University Graduate School of Education course, “Organizational Change in Uncertain Times”


Each week, Kia asked me the most poignant and relevant questions, which always led me to deep and meaningful reflections on my leadership. I was made to feel seen and heard through her active listenership. She was also aware of intersectionality and how my various identities could impact my leadership. Even on days I did not feel I had the bandwidth for a session, I never regretted engaging and reflecting. Kia’s thoughtfulness, intentionality, personable approach, and professionalism made this experience absolute perfection. I am very grateful.
— Luziris Pineda Turi, Associate Vice Provost, Access and Institutional Excellence at Rice University, Houston, TX

Client Testimonials

Working with Coach Caldwell has been invaluable to me as I continue my higher education leadership journey. She provides her clients with ample opportunity to articulate challenges and guides them artfully through the path to self-discovery. I found the resources she has shared with me to be particularly useful in my daily work. In Coach Caldwell, you will find an experienced and empathic leader who is dedicated to her clients’ success.
— Gina G.

To connect and learn more about my coaching and consulting services, please contact me below or sign up for an exploratory call. I look forward to speaking with you!