046: What She Learned About Money, Worth, and Walking Away From a Career That No Longer Fit

What happens when you’ve spent your whole career doing meaningful work… but you’re still underpaid, undervalued, and quietly burning out?

This week, I’m joined by Kim Kiel—a brand voice expert, copy coach, and former nonprofit pro who walked away from a 20-year mission-driven career to start something of her own.

At 42, with two young kids and no plan B, Kim left the “safe” path. What followed was a powerful unlearning of everything she’d been taught about money, worth, and what it means to be of service.

In just two years, she went from writing grants for causes to running a thriving copywriting agency—earning more in a month than she used to in a year, while helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs sell with integrity.

We talk about what it really takes to walk away from a role that no longer fits, how to navigate the identity shift of starting over, and why choosing yourself doesn’t mean abandoning your values.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:
✅ The mindset shifts Kim had to make after leaving the nonprofit world
✅ How she built a six-figure copywriting agency rooted in integrity
✅ Why ethical copywriting is more powerful (and profitable) than you think

3 KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1️⃣ Wanting a proper salary doesn’t make you selfish. It makes you sustainable.
2️⃣ You don’t have to choose between purpose and profit. You can build both.
3️⃣ Your voice is your superpower—and people are craving real connection.

🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES:
Listen to Kim’s podcast: ill communication
Download Kim’s Sales Copy Scorecard: kimkiel.com/scorecard
Follow Kim on Instagram: @kim_kiel_copy

MORE FROM ME:

Follow me on Instagram → @janditchfield.co

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