Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim Duff Selby
Kim Duff, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
MY MISSION
I am here to shout to the world that you are never too old….to pursue a passion, start a new project, learn a new skill. In my 3rd act, I inspire women to Ignite Their Sparks, and realize they have much to offer the world. I started my podcast and signature program to share inspiration and actionable ways for YOU to ignite your spark for a more joyful, fulfilled and purposeful life. The world needs more light, positivity and happy people. I want that for you.
During the pandemic of 2020, I started my podcast, and my signature class and became a certified yoga instructor. What are your dreams? I have actionable tips and trick to assist you in igniting your own spark.
MY STORY
From the time I was 7, I wanted to be an actress. I always delighted in donning boas and tiaras, tutus and high tops, dancing, singing and pretending. Fashion was a part of this passion and I have been involved in the fashion industry in some form or another for over 30 years (shopping doesn’t count, although I have done more than my fair share of that!) I have seen it all and worn it all. From hot pants and fringed vests to bow ties and power suits. My style has gone hither and yon as I experimented while expressing igniting my spark via what I wore. I didn’t always shine, I can assure you of that. However, I had a wonderful time playing, experimenting and creating different personas of the day.
I found out I was adopted at the age of 22 when my mother passed and discovered how to re-ignite my spark when confusion set in. A few years later my father joined my mother, and as an only child, I learned to reignite that spark once again.
After earning a graduate degree in communications I landed in NYC.
I drank coffee on soap operas, tried out for Broadway shows, and performed in many community theatre productions. I also worked. For money. I had “real” jobs and I also sold sandwiches in hair salons.
Favorite real job – GLAMOUR Magazine – where I brought the pages of the Magazine to life around the country via fashion shows and live presentations.
Had my fill of the city and moved to San Francisco where I promptly met my husband (34 years now), became Fashion Director at Saks Fifth Avenue in Palo Alto, had two children and then became a solopreneur. I had my own Fashion Show Production company for over 20 years, producing, choreographing and directing hundreds of fashion shows using non professional (real people) models.
I saw the transformation that occured when someone found their inner light through coaching, style and positive reinforcement. Eventually I became a Creativity Coach and now lead workshops and give inspirational talks encouraging women to find and Ignite their spark.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Roads always have potholes, loose gravel and can sometimes be slippery and send you in a direction you didn’t realize was the right path. I tend to flow over the potholes and change directions easily. I experienced loss in my 20’s when my parents passed and reigniting my spark took a lot of inner strength.
I had a job where I was fired, for being “too much”, and vowed to continue to be too much. If someone didn’t like who I was, well I would find people who did.
I kept a positive outlook knowing that something better would appear for me. Mindset is so important and I constantly repeat affirmations to help me realize how powerful I am and how I will get through.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Women in mid-life and beyond have been overlooked for decades. Media relegates us to the corner, particularly once we have white hair (as I do!). I refuse to be labelled old, I prefer the term wise woman. I specialize in working with women who are unable to see their own value and beauty. I am a spark igniter and motivator. I get women to recognize the value they have. I assist them in uncovering their purpose and passion to continue to thrive as a valuable and valued member of society.
I am a unique woman – I am a curious seeker of knowledge – I know there is more for all of us, and we must believe in ourselves in order to shine our light in the world. I walk the talk and encourage others to step outside of their comfort zones to find the magic just waiting around the corner.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I moved to San Francisco when I turned 30 years old. I was living in NYC and just had enough. I was an “orphan”, had many wonderful friends, but I wanted a change. Knowing two people in the bay area, I packed all of my belongings and went searching for what was next for me in the city by the bay. I had no job and no car, but easily found an apartment and the other things followed. That was probably the biggest risk I have ever taken.
I think taking risks is tantamount to living a fulfilled life. We take risks all the time, or we should. I had more blind dates than I can count (risk taking!), I quit jobs without having something else lined up, but I had the belief all would be well. You need to gage which risks are worth taking and what you should step away from. Joining a group of people with common interests where you know no one is a risk anyone can take. Taking a class in a subject you know nothing about – another small risk that will most likely reap rewards – everyone should do that at some point to help their growth. Walking alone as a woman in a dark parking garage- now that’s not a risk you should take!
Pricing:
- $444 for online program
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimduffselby.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimduffselby/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kimduffselby
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@KimDuffSelby
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kimduffselby
Image Credits
Steph Rausser
Richard Shiu
Dan Porter