Speaking and Media

I believe in the power of honest conversation to spark meaningful change.

Whether I’m speaking on a podcast, facilitating a workshop, or leading a retreat, my intention is always the same. I aim to hold space that inspires women to reconnect with themselves, take intentional action, and prioritize their wellbeing in sustainable ways.

Below you’ll find a selection of podcast interviews, event highlights, and reflections from people who have experienced my work firsthand.

Featured Interviews & Media

Here are a few of my favourite podcast and media appearances where I share insights on self-love, personal growth, and creating a life rooted in meaning, joy, and alignment.

Optimism Expert Dedicated to Guiding You Through Change

Global News – Making a Difference with Susan Hay

In this televised interview, I share the heart behind my free online sessions I created to help people embrace change, navigate uncertainty, and build a more empowered path forward during The Pandemic. This segment highlights my work in personal transformation and my belief that optimism can be both a mindset and a practice.

Podcast Conversations

Here are a few of my favourite conversations where I share insights on self-love, personal growth, and living a life aligned with what truly matters.

The Power of Self-Love and Personal Transformation

Maverick Makers with Michelle Daides

In this empowering conversation, I share how self-love became the foundation for my own transformation, and how it can do the same for you. We explore the story behind The Morning Mantra card deck, and practical ways to honour yourself in the midst of a full life.

Becoming an Optimist

The Everyday Style School with Jennifer Mackey-Mary

In this uplifting conversation, I share what optimism really is (and what it’s not), along with practical ways to turn up your “optimism dial” even when life feels hard. We talk about daily practices that helped me shift from struggling single mom to joy-filled, purpose-driven coach. If you’ve ever wished you could see more light in the everyday, this episode is for you.

Off The Cuff: The Power of Self-Love and Intuition

Maverick Makers with Michelle Daides

In this relaxed, real conversation, I talk with fellow coach Leanne Monaghan about trusting your intuition, breaking through self-doubt, and using self-love to build a more aligned life. We share stories, laughter, and tangible tools to help you move forward with more clarity and joy.

The Intention Sessions: Episode 013

Hosted by Adrienne Enns – May You Know Joy

In this heartfelt and expansive conversation, I share how optimism, identity, and activism intersect in both my personal life and my work as a coach. We talk about the power of taking small, courageous steps forward, whether you’re navigating personal transformation or collective healing.

Live Your Life with Self-Love and Optimism

Sharing Life Lessons with Hamidah

In this deeply personal conversation, I share my journey from hopelessness to healing, and how self-love and optimism became the foundation for everything that followed. We explore what optimism really means and how to nurture it through small, steady practices, even in life’s darkest moments.

Speaking, Facilitation & Workshop Highlights

In the Room, On the Mic, Holding Space for Transformation

I speak from experience, and I speak from the heart. Whether I’m leading a retreat, facilitating a group session, or speaking at an event, I create spaces where women feel safe, seen, and connected, to themselves and to each other.

My work focuses on what I believe to be the foundation of all personal growth: self-love. I guide women through powerful conversations about self-worth, wellbeing, and the practices that support meaningful transformation. My facilitation style is informal, conversational, and interactive. I don’t just talk to a room, I engage with it.

Topics I’m often invited to speak on include:

Creating a clear, empowered vision for your life
Deepening self-connection through self-loving beliefs, thoughts, and actions
Understanding the power of self-care and wellbeing as a non-negotiable and essential way of being

Kind Words from the Room

Reflections from Hosts and Participants

Karla Smith is an absolute powerhouse of wisdom, grace, and compassion. As a panellist on our ‘Ignite Your Fire Within’ panel at the Elevate Experience, she captivated every woman in the room with her heartfelt vulnerability and relatable approach. If you’re looking for a speaker who can ignite transformation and leave your audience feeling unstoppable, Karla Smith is the one.

—Julie Greenham, Event Host

This retreat was exactly what I needed. I went home lighter and grounded in my path and purpose. Karla and Penny are awesome at making you feel at home without needing to do a thing.

-Kandice D., Retreat Participant

Karla has such a calm and grounded energy about her. I really enjoyed the talk and will definitely look for that questionnaire!

-Julie M., Event Attendee

Event Highlights Gallery

A few visual moments from recent retreats, talks, and speaking engagements:

Karla speaking at the “Ignite Your Fire Within” panel – Elevate Experience

Women creating vision boards and connecting deeply at Karla’s inspiring workshop.

Karla facilitating a workshop in her signature grounded, interactive style

Invitation to Book or Collaborate

Interested in Working Together?

If you’re looking for a speaker, facilitator, or panelist who brings heart, presence, and transformation to the room, I’d love to connect. Whether you’re planning a retreat, event, podcast, or workshop, I collaborate with intention and care to create meaningful experiences for women who do so much for others.

I’m available for:

Women’s retreats and wellness events
Team or organization workshops
Panel discussions and summits
Guest podcast interviews
Community or leadership circles
Intimate group facilitation

Please reach out to start the conversation, I’d be honoured to be part of your next offering.