Kathryn (KJ) Kozak-Freeda
KJ speaking at Creative+’s last Monthly Connect of 2025 : Creative + Night-In. Speaking on balancing obligations versus what we really want.
Kathryn “KJ” Kozak-Freeda is a leadership coach, organizational consultant, and facilitator, and the founder of KJ Kozak Consulting, LLC. With a PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology, she supports entrepreneurs, creatives, and mission-driven professionals in building sustainable careers and meaningful impact…Without burnout.
Through her coaching, workshops, and her action-focused podcast, she turns big ideas into achievable plans while staying grounded in community. As an engaged Creative+ member, KJ reflects the heart of the Creative+ community: connection, collaboration, and growth.
Read on to learn more about KJ.
Full Name: Kathryn Kozak-Freeda
Nickname: KJ
What do you do professionally?
I am the founder of KJ Kozak Consulting, LLC, a boutique coaching and consulting business. I work with ambitious people and teams to find the time, money, and energy to achieve pie in the sky goals. This includes leadership coaching, organizational consulting, and facilitation.
At the start of 2026, I’ll be hosting a series of virtual workshops for solopreneurs and small business owners to plan out their year with ambitious but achievable goals. I’m really looking forward to helping others feel more confident about the work they do!
Creative+ members can get a sneak peek at what I do at the Monthly Connect - I’ll be leading a brief activity with hot tips on starting your year off strong.
What do you want to do (professionally and/or personally)?
Professionally, I want to write a book. I do have an abstract with some very early draft chapters in a Word document…
I also want to expand my reach to help organizers, advocates, and professionals across the country effect change within their community while caring for themselves. I piloted a program last year that specifically focuses on social justice and community impact, and I intend to launch it in early 2026!
Personally, I cooked up a five year plan to play ice hockey and I’m in Year 2. I’m still learning how to skate, and I look forward to picking up a stick sometime soon!
Do you have any passion projects or ideas you want to explore?
Yes!! Last year, I started a podcast called Something You Can Do. Every episode explores a different thing you can do and focuses on action steps. I felt like so many podcasts stay way up in the clouds and talk about ideas and themes without giving clear on ramps for making changes in your own life. So this podcast focuses on tangible actions - making scrambled eggs, going for a walk, getting better sleep - that people might be inspired to try out.
Who inspires you? Why?
My incredible spouse, Dan, has a way of figuring out what he wants and going after it. Whether it’s a good meal, a trip of a lifetime, or a dream job, Dan doesn’t settle and I’m so inspired by it.
Hobbies / Interests / Things that bring you joy:
I’ve had a lifelong yoga practice and I’ve carved out some space in my home office where I can join virtual yoga classes.
I love to cook big meals, and I’m working on perfecting Hungarian beef stew.
My very favorite place is the beach, and I try to get to the ocean as often as possible!
Greatest accomplishments:
I have a PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology, which I finished in May of 2021. Defending a dissertation during COVID was no small feat.
Future accomplishments:
One day I’ll write that book, and join a rec league to play ice hockey.
I also intend to run in-person professional development workshops, leadership retreats, and LGBTQ+ focused networking groups!
What excites you about being a Creative+ Member?
It’s really energizing to have a community around me to network, collaborate, and grow with. I definitely haven’t taken advantage of the physical space nearly enough, but I love having the Creative+ team and other members for brainstorming, encouragement, and support.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given:
Never wear open-toed shoes in New York City in the summer time.
Who is someone you want to collaborate with? Why?
I’ve never met someone who isn’t a future friend or potential collaborator. This prompt has inspired me to scroll through my contacts, and every person I find is an exciting new project waiting to happen - but to name one, I’ll say
Favorite quote:
“There has never been a sadness that can’t be cured by breakfast food.” - Ron Swanson, Parks and Rec
What does your best life look like?
My best life is getting up early to write and work; going to the beach; eating good food; and spending so much time with friends and family.
Last words for the Creative+ Community and beyond?
Show up!!! We’re all here for you.
Connect with KJ:
www.https://kjkozakconsulting.com/
We love shining light on our members!
