Meet our newest WOL Coach: Karie Foster
You can tell a lot about Karie from how she describes the kind of difference she hopes to make.
“Whether through sharing knowledge, building meaningful relationships, or simply being present, I hope to make someone’s life just a little better. I want every person I meet to feel valued—to know that their thoughts and feelings matter. I believe that meaningful change begins one person at a time.”
For Karie, making a difference isn’t about big programs and big ambitions. It’s personal and intimate. It’s about helping people one at a time to feel better, about themselves and the world around them.
In my interactions with Karie, I’ve noticed she has an aura of quiet power. She speaks quietly and intently, exuding a feeling of genuine caring and thoughtfulness. I can understand why all the WOL Circles she had led have had a good experience.
Most recently, Karie is partnering with Barb Dunn-Swanson, Lyndi Buckingham-Schutt, and others at Iowa State University to offer the WOL Resilience method. Their aim is to help communities across Iowa experience personal growth and a feeling of connection. It’s an important and ambitious mission.
I am excited to work with and learn from Karie. I can’t wait to see what she and the Iowa State team do with WOL!
Note: For each new WOL Coach, I ask three questions so you can get to know them and what drives them. You can also visit Karie’s WOL Coach profile on workingoutloud.com. Or connect with her on LinkedIn or at karief@iastate.edu.
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1. Please share 5 facts about you so people get to know you.
I am an adult educator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Before this role, I worked as a school counselor supporting children and families.
I prefer listening over talking and value hearing people’s stories and experiences.
Family is my top priority and a central part of who I am.
Summer is my favorite season—I love the warmth and sunshine.
I hope to travel more and immerse myself in different cultures.
2. What positive difference do you aspire to make?
I aspire to bring growth and joy to others. Whether through sharing knowledge, building meaningful relationships, or simply being present, I hope to make someone’s life just a little better. I want every person I meet to feel valued—to know that their thoughts and feelings matter. I believe that meaningful change begins one person at a time.
3. Why WOL?
The growth that happens through both teaching and learning is what drives my passion for this work. Working Out Loud Resilience is a powerful tool that encourages self-awareness and connection. It blends intentional action with reflection, helping individuals and teams focus on what truly matters. Through this process, participants become more open, supportive, and connected—creating an environment where everyone benefits from shared experiences and mutual encouragement.