Krystena S.
CEO & Founder at Sterling Coaching and Consulting
United States of America - 3:20 PM local time
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With over two decades of experience in leadership development, operations, culture transformation, and executive coaching, I have dedicated my career to helping leaders and organizations grow through connection, authenticity, and shared purpose. My passion for this work began early, shaped by the belief that people—and the relationships between them—are the heartbeat of any thriving organization.

Some of the most defining chapters of my career came during my years at The Walt Disney Company and House of Blues®. As an executive with House of Blues, I had the unique opportunity to blend food & beverage operations with the artistry and impact of live music. It was here that I first understood the power of culture, creativity, and human connection in bringing diverse teams together toward a shared vision.

My work with Disney deepened and expanded that understanding. I was part of the leadership team that launched two new Disney Cruise Line ships, serving a workforce representing 52 countries. I designed the training strategy for the fleet expansion and recruited trainers from across the entire Walt Disney organization—a massive cross-functional effort that taught me the profound importance of collaboration across boundaries, cultures, and disciplines.

One specific accomplishment was being part of the launch of the Disney Service Guidelines and Disney Leader Basics across Parks & Resorts. This work gave every Cast Member and leader—from Orlando to Anaheim and beyond—a unified cultural foundation and a shared standard of excellence. This initiative was so meaningful because it was never just about training—it was about creating a consistent, values-driven experience for millions of people.

These experiences shaped not only my career, but my philosophy as a leader and coach. They taught me that success doesn’t come from silos, titles, or strategy alone—it comes from trust, authenticity, connection, and the ability to work across differences toward a shared purpose.

Today, whether I’m coaching executives, developing leadership strategies, or guiding organizations through culture and change, those lessons remain at the core of my work. I help leaders show up as their most authentic selves, build trust with their teams, and create cultures where people feel valued, inspired, and empowered to contribute their best.

Because in the end, leadership is about relationships—and relationships are what move organizations forward.

Work Experience
CEO & Founder
Sterling Coaching and Consulting
Self Employed
Jan 2017 - Present
9 yrs 4 mos
Leadership Development Program Manager
Northrop Grumman
Full Time
Jan 2025 - Jul 2025
6 mos
...see more
Education
Walden University
Doctoral Degree
Industrial Organizational Psychology
2017 - 2027
Walden University
Master's Degree
Industrial Organizational Psychology
2017 - 2023
...see more
Skills
Project Management
Talent Strategy
Budgeting
Coaching Certification
Mindset Shift
...see more
Guidance and Expertise Provided

My motivation as a mentor, coach, and trainer comes from a deep belief that people are capable of extraordinary growth when they feel supported, understood, and challenged in the right ways.

Above all, I am driven by the opportunity to help someone see themselves differently—to recognize their strengths, overcome barriers, and grow into the leader they want to be.

Expertise Areas

Lifestyle

Goal Setting
Time Management
Developing a Growth Mindset
Work-Life Balance
Emotional Wellness and Mindfulness
Purpose Discovery
Habit Building
Life Coaching for Transitions
Mindful Leadership Practices
...see more
Guidance and Expertise Needed
I would like to expand my knowledge in the areas of marketing and building my brand
Areas of Guidance Needed

Business

Cross-Cultural Communication
Corporate Coaching
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