Turning My Pain Into A Force For Good

Maria Olsen and I met at FierceConLA 2019 where we both were speakers on the same panel. Her story captured me immediately and thankfully I was able to convince Maria to participate in my Sunday’s Share Your Story Series. 

Now, I am thrilled to introduce Maria Olsen as our most recent woman-driven brand in our curated shopping experience. Her book, 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter is an incredibly inspiring read and you can now grab yours in the Kuel Shop.

KUELLIFE: What type of business do you own/run?

MARIA: I am an author and public speaker, as well as an attorney. My latest book, 50 After 50: Reframing the Next Chapter of Your Life, has served as a vehicle for much of my public speaking on such topics as self-care, becoming one’s best version, and meditation for busy people.

KUELLIFE:  What prompted you or drove you to become an entrepreneur? When?

“my “why” is to turn my pain into a force for good”

MARIA: I have written and spoken throughout my life as a way of processing my thoughts and feelings. I really believe my “why” is to turn my pain into a force for good by sharing my story and helping other women who may feel alone or rudderless amidst their struggles.

KUELLIFE: What’s your biggest struggle?

MARIA: Not feeling as if I am doing enough. Especially as I age, I am increasingly aware that my time in this life is limited. And, there is so much more of the world I want to see and experiences I want to have before I leave!

KUELLIFE: What is your biggest fear as an entrepreneur? How do you work through it?

“ I feel so exposed, at times.”

MARIA: Sometimes I wonder if I have been too self-revelatory in my writing and speaking. I feel so exposed, at times. But I tell myself that if I help even one woman by sharing my journey recovering from alcoholism, divorce, sexual assault/abuse, or other things I have written about, it will have been worth it.

KUELLIFE: How do you measure your success?

MARIA: I measure it by how many people I have helped. It is so gratifying to receive messages about how my book has helped someone seek help, work through their issues, or feel not so alone with their struggles. More often than not, when I give a book talk or other public speaking event, someone will approach me in tears about how my words helped them and gave them strength and hope. 

KUELLIFE: Finally, what advice would you give other women about taking an entrepreneurial path?

MARIA: Examine your values and try to find a path that aligns with those values. Those who find work that fills them with joy and purpose are so blessed! Talk to other women about their experiences. We each can lift each other up!

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