Meet Lauren Johnson | Leadership and Career Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
LeadHER Coaching stemmed from the deep belief that women deserve to lead with clarity, confidence, and authenticity — and that leadership should never require us to lose ourselves in the process.

I spent over 15 years working across industries like finance, nonprofits, and tech startups, steadily moving into leadership roles. I went from an individual contributor to a Director role in a fast-growing startup almost overnight. I was leading big initiatives and navigating rapid change — and like many high-achieving women, I poured everything into my work.

But I reached a point where I realized that ambition without boundaries was burning me out. I had the title, the influence, and the calendar full of meetings — but I was losing my sense of self. That wake-up call led me to coaching, first as a client, then as a certified executive coach.

That’s what inspired me to create LeadHER Coaching — a space for women professionals and leaders to explore what success means to them, beyond the checkboxes and expectations. Through 1:1 coaching and practical tools, I help women navigate career transitions, leadership identity, and burnout recovery so they can lead on their own terms.

LeadHER Coaching is where strategy meets self-awareness. I built this practice to support the kind of growth that feels both powerful and sustainable — because I’ve lived the alternative, and I know there’s a better way.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’ve learned that growth rarely comes from staying comfortable.

One of the biggest challenges has been unlearning the idea that overworking equals value. In past roles, I wore long hours like a badge of honor, convinced that being the “go-to” person made me indispensable. But that mindset was unsustainable — and honestly, it held me back. My experience taught me the importance of clarity, communication, and investing in people — lessons I now bring into my coaching practice.

Starting LeadHER coaching has been a leap of faith. It has enabled me to redefine success on my own terms, trusting that women would see the value in coaching — it has been a vulnerable transition. But every step, even the hard ones, has reinforced why LeadHER Coaching exists.

Today, I help other high-achieving women navigate these same challenges — and it’s powerful to turn past struggles into tools that support someone else’s growth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
La Jolla & Bird Rock

Food:

Catania – Coastal Italian fare with stunning rooftop views.

Lilli Bakery – Perfect for coffee and baked goods to start your day.

Wayfarer Bread – Grab a signature loaf or a casual bite on the go.

Drinks:

The Whaler, Beeside Balcony or La Coq– Great for a laid-back dessert cocktail in the evening.

Things to Do:

Walk the scenic path between La Jolla and Bird Rock.

Browse the La Jolla Farmers Market.

Watch sea lions along the coast or enjoy a beach day at La Jolla Shores.

Little Italy & Bankers Hill
Food:

Ironside – Elevated seafood in a stylish, urban space.
Kinme Omakase – An intimate 10-seat restaurant offering a seasonal tasting menu inspired by Kaiseki and Edomae sushi traditions.

Drinks:

Young Blood – Speakeasy-style cocktail tasting tucked behind a secret door.

Nolita Hall – Great ambiance and community vibe with strong drinks.

Things to Do:

Explore the Little Italy Farmers Market.
Walk the waterfront from waterfront park to seaport village

Del Mar
Food:

Viewpoint Brewing Co. – Laid-back lunch with sweeping views of the San Dieguito Lagoon.

Things to Do:

Take a scenic walk to Del Mar Dog Beach.

Enjoy the coastal charm and slow pace of downtown Del Mar.

North Park / Lafayette Hotel Area
Food & Drinks
Tribute Pizza – Creative, high-quality pies inspired by iconic pizzerias across the U.S., served in a bright, spacious former post office.
Underbelly – A modern ramen spot with bold flavors and a cool, casual atmosphere.

Things to Do

Lounge at the iconic Lafayette Hotel Pool—a perfect day for sun, cocktails, and relaxation.
Drive over to Balboa Park for a hike or to explore the various museums, shops and botanical gardens.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to all of the leaders I’ve had the chance to learn from throughout my career. Whether they were direct managers, mentors, or peers, each one has shaped my understanding of leadership in meaningful ways. We grow through experience, but also through the wisdom of those who have walked the path before us.

A special shoutout goes to the powerful female mentors who helped me navigate the twists and turns of my career and reminded me of the strength in leading with authenticity. I also want to recognize the leadership coaches I’ve worked with over the years—working with them not only deepened my growth as a leader but also inspired me to become a certified coach myself. They helped me experience firsthand the transformational impact coaching can have, and that continues to fuel the heart of LeadHER Coaching.

Website: https://www.leadhercoachingco.com/

Instagram: @leadher_coachingco

Image Credits
pexel.com