Hi I’m Dara Astmann.

I empower ambitious moms to rediscover what’s possible and confidently pivot towards a career that ignites both passion and balance.

 

I'm a mom to two elementary school-aged kids and an active and lovable chocolate lab. With a background in psychology and business from Washington University in St. Louis, I spent nearly 20 years working in media, gaining valuable experience at renowned companies like WPP, Publicis, and Paramount Global before pivoting to my dream career as a Professional Coach.

I strongly believe that your first job out of college should not dictate a single linear career path for your entire life. The definition of success should be personalized and not a societal expectation of a corner office with a big title. When women become mothers, so much changes, and it’s rare for them to take the time to re-evaluate and get to know who they are today. Throughout my career, I've engaged in countless conversations with friends and acquaintances who long to reassess their current life and career paths. Many of them are eager for change but often find themselves stuck when it comes to taking action.

This compelling need inspired me to become a Certified Professional Coach through iPEC (Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching). Through my coaching, I empower women to evaluate what works best for their families while also discovering their own personal fulfillment. It's incredible to witness clients finding joy and satisfaction in pursuits that may differ greatly from their career aspirations in their younger years.

My approach focuses on helping moms like you identify your core values and passions, break free from the monotony of daily life and embrace purpose and excitement. Together, we will uncover what truly matters to you today and how you can integrate it into your current lifestyle. I provide the tools to find the clarity to identify what’s next, and the confidence to go for it, as you embark on a transformative journey.

Join me on this empowering path of self-discovery, where you can rediscover your beliefs, ignite your passions, and reclaim a life filled with purpose and enthusiasm.

Testimonials

 
 

“Since working with Dara, I’ve had my biggest earning months ever, have renewed confidence in myself and my abilities, and even met a new client through her Mompreneurs group.

Dara is a great connector and friend who will be your biggest cheerleader, but also know whe you need an extra push or added supp;ort to reach a goal.

Burnout-parental or professional- is real and Dara can help you through it.

-M.D.

“So grateful for my sessions with Dara. Dara helped me get organized for my H1 review. I felt prepared, proactive and confident going into crucial work conversations - this allowed me to thrive.

Dara helped provide me with a solution and goal oriented mindset. The outcome was very positive and I am thrilled with my raise! Looking forward to working with Dara in the future. Highly recommend.”

— D.R.

“Dara really challenged me to think deeply on my values. She made sure each session ended with an action plan that wasn’t too overhwleming but impactful.

This step-by-step guidance allowed me to see my path clearly as I transition back to work from maternity leave. Come with an open mind, be ready to have a good discussion and Dara will guide the way.

— Cathy

“Thanks so much for your guidance and support! Definitely helped my confidence and organization skills leading up to this promotion. Very cool to say I’ve been working with you as an amazing coach and have gotten a promotion or raise every 6 months since working together for the past two years!”

-Darcy

“Dara and I met at a unique time in my career and she truly gave me the push I needed to start something I’ve always wanted to do but wasn’t sure how to. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking to make a change or to provide the confidence you need to go for what you want.”

-Erica

 

I encourage busy moms to confidently identify, and transition into, a more fulfilling career that ignites passion and balance, without having to sacrifice their home life.

I work with women to set real goals, hold themselves accountable, and work through the obstacles that come up along the way.

I am a working mom and I have benefited greatly from working with coaches. I understand firsthand how beneficial it is to have someone who supports, questions, and helps you connect with your true self. COVID has added another level of complexity in the world of working and mothering. It has changed the way companies are functioning and forced us to reevaluate what's important in our lives. I, like many of you, am a mother who often focuses on a million things (everything but myself). By finding what inspires and energizes you, you will become better mothers, wives, and coworkers, and overall live a happier life.

If this resonates for you, click here to find out more about what coaching together may look like for you.

 Let’s Talk

If you’d like to know more about what coaching together would look like,
please book a time below for a free 30-minute chat.