NOTE: I limit this page to a smattering of 30 testimonials.
I found myself depressed and with anxiety I had never experienced before. I was completely unmoored, like a leaf in the wind, without agency, trapped and without a sense of what I even liked and I could not make the simplest decisions. I was truly worried for my sanity (…) I thank God, my therapist, Krista’s work, and a very good friend for helping me find my way back from a true dark night of the soul which actually lasted many months. I sincerely thank you all for being part of the progress.
—K.M.
Your work has been a beacon of hope at the end of a very very long tunnel, and I believe it’s going to be what leads me into (not back to 😁) a life of joy, being/finding myself, being independent, and finding new connection and community, which I’ve completely lost. Thank you so much for being that light at the end of the tunnel. For the first time in a long time today while out in the woods, walking in the the snow with my dog, I had a true glimmer of joy and happiness.
—J.H.
I am so glad I made the decision to invest in coaching calls with Krista. Right from the start, Krista was engaged and supportive. She understood me and what I needed (even when I didn’t) and had practical tools and suggestions that I’d never come across before, but which really made the difference. Krista challenged my thinking and yet validated my right to be just who I am. In a world that rarely extends such a courtesy, the difference this has made is life-changing. I have come out of our sessions with a far greater understanding of myself, my needs, my desires, and, most importantly, a far greater love and respect for myself.
And if you are looking for a deep-dive with some of the most wonderful women on the planet, I highly recommend the Brave and Beautiful community. In a world consumed by the surface layer, here is a chance to dig deep. Krista’s work and words are a beautiful gift, something you instantly recognize as the truth even as you wonder how you never saw it before. It has been so inspiring to learn from Krista and to get to know myself better. And it has been such a delight to encounter all the wise and wonderful women who make the journey so enjoyable. You will not find a kinder, more generous group on the internet.
—Karen U
I have been a member of Krista’s Brave and Beautiful community for over two years, and it has become one of the anchor points in my life. Regardless of how busy/stressful life is, it is a community I know I can return to pressure-free, to connect with women at all stages of life, and to have resources in the form of written exercises (to do anytime), recorded meetings and workshops, and an online forum for connection. For people who like to learn, there is nothing better. Krista’s work and exercises are an amazing combination of science-based research and her extensive reading and education into personal growth. In a word, I would describe the B and B community as a place of richness—of endless opportunities to grow and explore, and in connections with like-minded women. I have learned a huge amount about myself and my wiring, both from the written exercises done on my own, as well as through the sharings of others in the community. Many of the exercises I started through the B and B community I hope will become lifelong practices.
Working with Krista one-on-one has been a deeply enriching process. While I have been focusing on various areas of personal growth for some time, there was nothing like one-on-one coaching to put my thinking into perspective, and to identify stories and hang-ups I wasn’t even aware I had about myself! Through coaching, Krista has given me very specific strategies to deal with the stress points that recur in my life. She has taught me to identify where my thinking may distort reality and how, being aware of both my physiological responses and my inner dialog, to make these situations no longer blocks in my life. I feel that I have moved from a place of feeling “blocked” to a feeling of empowerment, where I can move forward in my life in a way that embraces who I really am.
—Valerie, PhD
I remember the first time I came across Krista’s work, one of her gorgeously contemplative blog postings, and thinking, OMG, I need to work with this woman. It felt like only a matter of time. I was immediately drawn to her values, as well as her beautiful messaging that while life is wildly messy and painful, there is still so much joy to be found and created at any time. Both/And. Knowing that Krista is also walking her own path of this work, of embracing herself perfectly imperfect amidst hardship, lends much authenticity and hope. She’s truly living it to give it.
Krista created a much needed warm, safe space for me to do deep internal work, to be gently tender and curious with the not-so-pretty parts of myself. This was backed by thoughtful questions and practices to explore my values, needs, priorities, and longings. From our deep conversations and this work, I have gained a grounded sense of self and safety; immense clarity in what I need and want in life; and permission to listen to my inner knowing, to give myself what I need. I feel immensely empowered. I am eternally grateful. ♥
—Leah W
I reached out to Krista for coaching at a burnt-out and stuck moment in my life when it felt like everything I had tried to re-inspire and re-energize myself had failed. With unusual compassion and insight, she was able to help me see the ways I was being less than kind with myself. She helped me notice and name hurtful beliefs that I had lived with for so long I didn’t even recognize they were there. She helped me rewrite how I approach my identity, work with my strengths and wiring, and find fresh vision and clarity for my life. The empathy, wisdom, and tools Krista brought to our conversations, the level of responsiveness and support, and the unwavering message of compassion and belief that she consistently communicated helped me find the door to a new season of my life. This work helped me grow lighter, more confident, hopeful, inspired, and grounded. It really has helped me become more fully myself.
—Veronica Collins, Writer, Mother, Creative Director at Co.School
Of all the programs I’ve been involved in (and there are many), yours is the most practical and makes the most sense to me because you touch on the somatic and the mind-heart-spirit. You bring together everything I’ve ever wanted to know about self-growth. I’m so glad that I found you.
—Ella Ryder, Client and member of the Brave + Beautiful Community
I came to Krista and her work in a season of my life where I was looking for greater clarity and direction about how to grow a creative outlet that I was beginning to unfold. Little did I know that I would not only receive that support, but even more importantly, I would receive the gift of greater self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-confidence in who I am, what holds me back, and what I have to offer to others. Krista operates with such deep compassion, kindness, integrity, and candor. In a world where those attributes are so often missing, I have been blessed to find them in Krista. Our work together has been a joy, though not always easy. Any time we are called to face our own fears and roadblocks, it is never a cakewalk. With Krista’s gentle, but firm, guidance, I feel a deeper and growing sense of purpose and focus rooted in deciding what I most want personally, professionally, and creatively. In the midst of it all, Krista has been a trusted guide on the path as I try to be fully present and increasingly intentional within the beautiful chaos that is life.
—Kendra Brodin, Lawyer + Founder of Esquire Well Academy
I signed up for the 8 session 1:1 coaching with Krista, hoping that she would be able to help me live more authentically. I am just emerging from a very difficult chapter of life and kind of felt like a shell of myself. Our work together was subtle, gentle, and powerful. She had wisdom and strategies to help me introspect and identify how I function in the world, what my stress response is, and how I want to live. I told her at the end, “I kind of came to you to find myself but through working with you I realized that ‘finding myself’ is not some mystical, intangible thing. It is actually just setting aside time to observe myself without judgment.” I have been here all along. My mind was just not quietened enough to observe how I function in the world. Krista has helped me to observe without judgment, reflect, evaluate, and identify how I relate to life. It is hard to put into words exactly what I have learned but I feel more settled. And confident. And self-aware. I, myself, am a clinical counsellor and life coach. And I found immense benefit from working with Krista. Her open and honest demeanor, well-earned wisdom, and gentle approach allowed me the space to unfurl.
—Carla Friesen, Counsellor + Pain Coach
BB is a safe and brave space where I can come to at the end of a long, hard day, or even after a happy day. Krista says that “all of you is welcome here” (meaning all parts of ourselves, including the parts we don’t like) and I feel that genuine welcome. I have shared both my struggles and my joys in this community, and have learned from other BB members as well who are courageously journeying amid their own challenges. Through BB, I am learning to be kinder to myself. I asked Krista about tough love; she helped me re-frame it to fierce self-compassion. It is easy to fall back into old habits and patterns, and being part of BB is a constant reminder for me about being a better friend to myself.
—Claire M
It’s been tricky for me to participate fully (in the B&B) with two young kids but I’m absorbing and reflecting lots. I also wanted to share with you how much I have grown as a human from following your work for the last year. You are amazing at what you do and your impact has significant depth for the people who are touched by your wisdom.
—Kristen Stewart
When I catch myself practicing things that I’ve learned in the B+B community, I often say “Hi Krista!” to ground the experience and to acknowledge that I am behaving in a new way. The longer I stay in the B+B community the more often I find myself saying “Hi Leslie!” because these practices are not only becoming mine, but they are also revealing the true me. Krista in an amazing teacher, mentor and model for living life on purpose, and it doesn’t hurt that she is enthusiastic about rest and giving yourself a break. I have learned so much from Krista and from finding myself through practicing with this community.
—Leslie P
I so appreciate you, your posts, thought processes, interviews, your way at problem-solving, the content you create, and your support. Joining this group is the very thing that helped me to begin to take steps forward from probably the worst season I’ve ever been through since childhood. I was so stuck and discouraged. Now I am making headway in leaps and bounds!! Brave and Beautiful has been so inspiring and so life-giving for me, as well as my Listening Partnership with (another member) and I just wanted you to know and thank you again. Who you are and what you carry is truly immeasurable in my life.
—Joyanne Ferrara, retired educator
I appreciate all you do! I am very lucky to be part of this group. Truly- the information and insight has helped me to prioritize what matters and take the right steps towards happiness.
—Barb S
I read and loved Krista’s Life in Progress emails for a while before deciding to join the Brave and Beautiful community. Krista is not only a truly gifted writer, but her take on how to approach life and all its craziness has been a godsend. I look forward to her “mostly-weekly” emails and often forward them to my daughter. I have learned so much already and look forward to our new units and activities. I also love that we have live Zoom calls and can interact with her and with one another. Each one of us gets to benefit from her wisdom and advice and I am so grateful for that. I am amazed at the wealth of information Krista provides … not only citing relevant resources but enlightening us with her own personal reflections and revelations. I plan to be a part of this amazing group for a long time!
—Amy Dolinky
I am so glad to be a part of your community! Thanks for all of the thought-provoking concepts you are presenting, and also for bringing together a group of women that make me feel that I am not alone in my journey!
—Adele F
Years ago I gained great courage from a quote I heard regarding the power of telling our truths and being authentic as a catalyst for others to do the same. Krista O’Reilly-Davi-Digui, is a perfect example of just how true this is. Her courage in telling her truth, no matter how messy, has been an inspiration to me for almost a decade. And, in her Brave & Beautiful Membership community, she has provided a safe space where others can follow her lead in the company of like-minded women. Truly a gift!
—Sandra Kerr-Porcari
This quarantine (C-19) has impacted my life; it has caused me to stop and take another look at my life vision. the work inside the B&B Community taught me it’s ok to change that vision for this season. It can be messy and that’s ok too. This course also taught me to set an intention for my days and to walk grateful but most of all it taught me to radically accept me and this place in my life. So now I honour the things that make me feel alive. Learning self-compassion has given me greater emotional resilience and I am a healthier version of myself. Thank you my brave a beautiful community. Thank you, Krista.
—Linda Castilleja
I read and resonated with Krista’s Life In Progress posts for two years before joining her Brave and Beautiful Community. It’s been such a gift in my life over the past six months to receive the wealth of wisdom and information Krista has acquired/accrued and now shares. Her honest, authentic, vulnerable integrity speaks powerfully to me at this stage of my life, and she inspires me to be just as courageous on my own journey. Thank you, Krista.
—Ellen Jennings, Pastor
I have followed Krista’s work for a couple of years now. She has challenged me to see” how” I’m thinking, and that it’s OK not to be perfect in this messy life. The Brave and Beautiful Membership Community has shown me that others are also seeking answers to a messy life, while still being imperfect. Being introduced to new authors and Bloggers has been a great blessing. It was very helpful to hear from other members what lights them up, what books and TED Talks are speaking to them at this time. I truly believe we are becoming “Community.” Thank You Krista O’Reilly Davi-Digui, for all your hard work, and leadership.
—Deb Gates, retired nurse
I wasn’t sure about an online community because I am “offline” mostly. I feel the connectedness though! Krista, your blog simply speaks to me. It’s growth-minded, raw, & real. Sometimes I see myself living the self-care, mindfulness theme well, but other times I just want to move about my day and not overly focus on anything! G. Rubin talks honestly in her Happiness Project about how some days she doesn’t want to hold the door for that slower woman behind her! Krista, I appreciate you so much for continuing this journey. I really see it is your gift and thank you.
—Tara Bevard
Finding you and your pages/courses has been life-giving for me. I feel like it is a debt I will never be able to repay.
—Roxanne Runzer
Krista is a breath of fresh air! She is honestly so dedicated to helping others! A huge advantage to working with Krista is that she’s willing to offer email check-ins in between sessions! In those emails, I get such valuable advice, feedback and suggestions from her! Face to face is obviously my favourite part though! Her calming nature, kindness and warmth make our sessions such an asset to my continued journey in maintaining a peaceful life!
—L.M.
Where to begin in what to say about Krista. Firstly, I offered to write this unprompted because I have been blown away by the support I’ve received through the Voice and Vision bundle. Blown away. As in, I’ve taken a lot of courses and hired other coaches/guides and the support I’ve received from Krista in just two sessions has been tenfold what I’ve received in other programs for the price point. Beyond the incredible level of support and personal attention she has offered me, it’s also actually working! I feel validated and encouraged and am making steady, tangible, visible progress all without any over the top pressure or silly cheerleading gimmicks. What can I say, if you’re on the fence about investing in the Voice and Vision bundle, and ready to do the work, I want you to know that the value you will receive is far beyond what I now see as a very humble and modest description of services on her website. I can’t recommend Krista enough.
—Carol Mass
I have been pretty lucky in my life so far–relatively healthy, no traumatic upbringing or abusive situations. My life has not been without some challenges but I am aware of my good fortune. Most of my roles have been caregiving ones-daughter, oldest sibling, wife, mother, teacher. I have never had the time or even the inclination to just work on me. I have started some trainings from time to time (ex: mindfulness) but have never really put in any soul searching work. After retiring last June, I started paying more attention to topics I found interesting, one of which was the B+B community and the idea of seasonal living. I read some of your articles and took the 5 day simplify challenge. I rather impulsively (for me!) decided to join and then paid for a whole year!
I am enjoying the modules and articles and exercises very much. I am actually doing the work, spending the time to think through my life and experiences that have made me who I am. I am committing myself to making daily/weekly/monthly routines that involve meditating, journaling, writing out goals and documenting what I am accomplishing. I have started all of this before, but I now have the time to be consistent. I am glad I made the commitment to spend a year working on myself.
I like attending the Zoom calls and hearing feedback from other strong women who are coming into their own, working through difficult situations and discovering their strengths. I am very happy to have found you and this community you have started.
—Kathy R, Brave + Beautiful Community Member
Krista helps you walk your own unique path — according to your own wiring (I’m highly sensitive, introvert), gifts, season of life, and limitations. I’m 63 but still want to learn and grow and live my vision of what I want in my life and how I want to feel. But I am not high energy and I get stressed easily. I need lots of rest and sleep and alone time. And I don’t want to feel hurried and stressed.
Krista is not a rah-rah coach on steroids who makes you achieve your goals and pushes you to action. I had been looking for a coach, specifically an artist coach, but they all seemed to focus on how much money you want to make and what you need to get there. I’m not motivated by money and after reading Krista’s insightful essays, I knew she was right for me. She will tell you the truth though and gently encourage you with humour, wisdom, intuition and practical tools.
One of my biggest takeaways is learning to, as she says, “take imperfect action.” I have a strong perfectionist part of me and I want everything all figured out before I make a move. This has been truly liberating. She also taught me that life doesn’t have to look a certain way to be joyful. I can “show up afraid,” take the long view, and go slow and steady. One of the gifts is seeing that I already have much of what gives me joy in my life. She validated my belief that you can live intentionally and create the life you want, not according to what others do or what society rewards. A life that’s maybe off the beaten path, but joyful and purposeful.
—Patti Drake, Abstract Artist
I want to thank Krista for literally opening up my world. I joined the B&B Community at a time when my anxiety and chronic health issues were my entire life, and my “real life” was going to start after I was “fixed”. Well after being in this group for over a year, my health issues and anxiety are still a part of my life but no longer my whole world. Krista’s wisdom has changed the way I move in the world.
Using imperfect action, and knowing that I’m not broken, and that healing takes place in community has made this last year my most joyous and grounded year that I’ve had in over a decade. There were of course still challenges in my life but that’s ok too because thanks to Krista I now know that I can bravely do hard things. The B&B Community is a place where I have felt supported by kind, messy, funny, and wise women from all over the world. I’m so grateful to the me that nervously reached out to Krista to join this group because it truly has been a life changing gift. Thank you again Krista!
—Rabiah F
I hired Krista because I didn’t know which way to go in my business and I was unsure of what I had to contribute. I didn’t know how to share my voice in a way that felt authentic and meaningful. I was afraid of showing up as the person I really am. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my experience working with Krista. I needed someone to push me gently out of my comfort zone so that I could show up more boldly in the world and she was that person. The bonus is I felt seen, heard, encouraged, and supported all along the way.
—Kelly Wojtaszek
Krista has been my coach and my cheerleader (without the pom-poms!) through what has been a very difficult year. She has gently guided me into making myself more aware of my patterns of self-protection and encouraged me to shine a light on my gifts. With her help, I’m slowly starting to unravel my habitual safety latches which is having a profound effect on my inner life, and also my close relationships. Step by step I feel I’m able to show up in a more confident and sparkly way in a world that has for so long seemed loud and intimidating to me. I will always be profoundly grateful to Krista, who in my mind is one of the world’s hidden treasures… and who I’m so lucky to have stumbled upon.
—Betsy Huggins, Creative Human at Tinygiant.uk
Joining the Brave and Beautiful Community feels like coming home. This is a place where we can be vulnerable without shame; through that vulnerability we can explore new ways of being with ourselves and within the world. The group of women here form a true community where we are joining together in deep introspection and supporting each other on our journeys through life. We come from all different paths and all different corners of the world. But we each bring something to the table.
Woven through all of this is Krista’s guidance and resources. Her work is rooted in a combination of science-based practices and intuitive wisdom. For me, the weekly discussions and exercises spark unconscious truths within myself that have been hidden under years of cultural conditioning. Through all of this Krista is walking and practicing alongside us, living her values and modeling a beautiful, messy, imperfect life.
I am so grateful for having found this community, and through it have become calmer, more aware, and more delighted with my life in all its challenges and joys.
—Jennie S