Breakout Session Speaker

Career transitions—whether changing roles, industries, or life chapters—require both courage to leap and clarity about where you're landing. This interactive 50-minute session helps participants understand which season of transition they're in, navigate the emotional and practical challenges of change, and create a strategic plan for moving forward. Participants will explore the four seasons of career transition: Release (letting go and endings), Renewal (rest and reflection), Emergence (new beginnings), and Abundance (thriving in the new reality). Through self-assessment, guided reflection, season-based small group discussions, and peer coaching, attendees will identify where they are in their journey and what courage and clarity they need to move forward. The session includes practical tools such as a transition planning worksheet that guides participants through clarifying their "why," identifying non-negotiables, mapping support systems, addressing fears, and creating 30-60-90 day action plans. Participants leave with a concrete commitment to one courageous action and optional accountability partnerships for ongoing support. This session directly embodies the Rise 2026 theme by equipping leaders with the courage to embrace change and the clarity to navigate it strategically, transforming uncertainty into intentional action.

Dr. Kristin Powell is a licensed psychologist, executive coach, and leadership consultant based in Birmingham, Alabama, with over 21 years of expertise in human behavior and organizational development. Kristin specializes in transforming high-achieving leaders through evidence-based strategies rooted in positive psychology and emotional intelligence. She excels at rapidly building authentic connections while challenging clients to grow beyond their comfort zones. Her comprehensive approach encompasses executive coaching, leadership competency assessment, change management, and team effectiveness training. She designs tailored development programs that help leaders enhance their impact, expand their influence, and transform organizational cultures. As Facilitator of the Rising Together Program, a group coaching program for women leaders, Kristin creates supportive environments where participants develop essential leadership skills and build powerful professional networks. Her integrated methodology empowers individuals and organizations to navigate complexity, embrace change, and achieve sustainable growth.