The Courage Coalition

As we step into 2025, many of us are filled with the drive to set new goals and create plans for the year ahead. However, we often forget that true growth happens not just from action but from healing. The journey of healing is complex and often uncomfortable, but it’s also where the real transformation occurs. For me, this journey has been about unraveling old stories, particularly the belief that I was only valuable when I was pleasing others and staying hidden. I used to think that being seen was unsafe, that I had to blend in to avoid conflict. But through vulnerability, I’ve realized that in order to truly show up for my people—my family, my business, and my community—I had to first show up for myself.

One of the most powerful shifts in my journey came when I was called to a conference last year. At the time, I had no idea why I was supposed to go, but I couldn’t ignore the pull I felt. It felt like a pebble, a quiet whisper nudging me in a direction I didn’t yet understand. But as I walked into that room, I was forever changed. The energy in that space was unlike anything I’d ever felt. It was there that I invested in myself and joined a mastermind, and that decision shattered everything I had been gripping with fierce control and scarcity. I began to understand that when we do the deep inner healing work, we don’t just change ourselves—we create a ripple effect that impacts everyone around us, from our family to our community to our business.

As we look ahead to this year, I want to encourage you to ask yourself: What stories are you still telling yourself that no longer serve you? Are you holding onto beliefs about your worth or safety that are keeping you stuck? Your healing, your worth, and the stories you choose to believe are reflected in every part of your life. If you want to create something different for yourself and your people, it starts with you. Take that first step. Say yes to the invitation, even if you don’t know where it will lead. The healing journey may be uncomfortable, but it is where the deepest transformation happens.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

Healing often starts with vulnerability, and for my mom and me, that journey was sparked by a letter of gratitude—a thank you for the struggles, the scars, and the lessons learned along the way. For much of my life, I sat in what I didn’t receive, focusing on what was missing. But when I decided to write my mom and thank her for what she had given me, everything shifted. It wasn’t about denying the pain or pretending everything had been perfect—it was about seeing the bigger picture, the way those struggles had shaped me into someone strong and resilient. We often talk about forgiveness in abstract terms, but when we release the power that old wounds have over us, we free ourselves to grow.

My mom's journey wasn’t without its own struggles, and one of the most profound things we’ve learned is that healing is often a slow, quiet process. For my mom, forgiveness came gradually, sneaking up behind her over time, fueled by growing self-awareness and the security that came with age. She once held grudges tightly, but as she healed, she realized that carrying that weight only held her back. I’ll never forget the moment she called to apologize, to tell me she was sorry for the things she couldn’t change. Those words weren’t just about healing our relationship—they were the key that unlocked my ability to finally let go of the past and step into freedom.

In every relationship, especially those between parents and children, there’s a crucial moment where we have to make a choice—do we continue to carry the weight of old wounds, or do we choose to leave a different kind of legacy? For me, the legacy I want to leave is one of courage, vulnerability, and action. It's about doing the hard work, showing up for our people, and not just expecting change but taking steps toward it. Whether in our families, friendships, or even within ourselves, healing comes when we take the courage to be vulnerable, ask for what we need, and give love in the form of action—not just words. That’s the kind of legacy we all have the power to create.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

Love isn’t just about romance—it’s the foundation of every relationship in our lives, including the love we give ourselves and the way we show up for our community. As I reflected on my conversation with Chad about marriage and commitment, I realized that the same dedication applies to all meaningful connections. Yet, one of the biggest struggles I see—both in my own life and in the lives of others—is that we often don’t commit to or nurture our relationships the way we should. We assume they’ll always be there, but when the hard moments come—whether it’s a crisis, a celebration, or simply the need for support—we find ourselves standing alone because we never took the time to build and sustain those connections.

I used to avoid difficult conversations, afraid of ruffling feathers or causing discomfort. But as I’ve grown, I’ve learned that true relationships aren’t about always agreeing—they’re about being willing to show up, even when it’s uncomfortable. There is so much beauty in learning to listen, respect, and understand without requiring sameness. Yet, we live in a world where the moment we disagree, the easiest solution is to walk away, unfriend, or disengage. But what if we leaned in instead? What if we saw those moments of friction as opportunities for growth rather than signs of division? The hardest conversations often lead to the strongest relationships, because within them, we find trust, authenticity, and depth.

But for many this can mean things, like being —the ones labeled the black sheep—what if we redefined that? Instead of seeing ourselves as outsiders, what if we embraced our role as the lions of our family and community? Those who challenge traditions, break cycles, and create change aren’t burdens—they are the catalysts for growth. Being different isn’t something to shrink from; it’s a responsibility to step into. So, as we step into this season of love, I invite you to ask yourself: How are you loving yourself and your relationships? How are you nurturing your uniqueness, your voice, and the people who truly see you? Because at the end of the day, we aren’t meant to do life alone. The relationships we invest in—through love, respect, and courage—are what give us the strength to make a lasting impact. ❤️

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Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

Marriage isn’t about finding a perfect match—it’s about creating something strong, season after season. This July, Chad and I will celebrate 30 years of marriage, and one of the most common questions we get is, How do you keep going? The truth? It’s not about keeping a perfect balance or avoiding hard times. It’s about commitment—to the person, yes, but also to the marriage itself. We’ve had to choose each other over and over again, through the beautiful moments and the painful ones, in seasons where it felt easy and in times when it required everything we had.

One of the biggest misconceptions about marriage is that it’s always 50/50. The reality? It ebbs and flows. There have been seasons when I carried more, and times when Chad carried the weight for both of us. Marriage isn’t about keeping score—it’s about recognizing when your partner needs you to step up and when you need them to do the same. And sometimes, that means having the hard conversations—the ones that force you to be vulnerable, to face fears, and to admit when things need to change. I’ll never forget the moment Chad told me, I’m afraid you’re going to outgrow me. Instead of dismissing his words, I listened. That conversation wasn’t about doubt—it was about the natural shifts that happen as we grow. And that’s what marriage is: adjusting, again and again, while holding onto each other.

The courage to stay in love isn’t about never having struggles. It’s about showing up, even when it’s hard. It’s about being willing to grow together instead of growing apart, giving each other space to change while still making the marriage a priority. Love is more than just a feeling—it’s an active choice, one that we make daily. And after three decades, I can confidently say that while marriage has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, it’s also been the easiest. Because at the end of the day, no matter what life throws at us, we know we’re in this together.

So, if you’re in a season where love feels heavy, where marriage feels like work—know that you’re not alone. The strongest relationships aren’t the ones without struggle; they’re the ones where both people are willing to fight for what they’ve built. Keep choosing each other, keep having the hard conversations, and never underestimate the power of simply showing up.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

Fostering the Summit represents a passion that’s bigger than anything we’ve set out to do before. After 13 years of being foster parents and adopting four children, Chad and I recognized that the traditional route of foster care wasn’t our next calling. But we also knew that we couldn’t stay silent or inactive. We had to step forward, even if it was messy and imperfect. That’s how this dream was born—through curiosity, reflection, and the willingness to try. The name, Fostering the Summit, captures both the challenge and the triumph of the foster care journey. It’s a metaphor for the hard work it takes to break cycles, climb the difficult peaks, and ultimately reach a place of healing and personal growth. Our foundation is about taking action to support these young people before they face the world alone, guiding them through a journey toward their own summit.

While we’re still in the process of officially becoming a nonprofit, our commitment to this cause is unwavering. The goal is simple: support the kids aging out of the foster system and give them the tools they need to succeed in life. This isn’t about offering temporary fixes, it’s about empowering them with the resources and confidence to change their futures. Our first fundraiser will be a 100-mile trek through the Alps on the Tour de Mont Blanc. We’re hoping to raise the first funds to kickstart this vision, and we’d love for you to be a part of it. Whether you can support through participation, donations, or simply sharing the message, every bit helps make a difference.

We’ll be sharing more updates and information in our Fostering the Summit Facebook group. This is just the beginning, and we’d love for you to join us in this journey, however that looks for you. The change we’re striving for starts with us, and together, we can create a ripple effect that makes a lasting impact on these kids’ lives. Let’s step forward and make the change we wish to see in the world.

Join the facebook group, where we will share the journey, ask for your feedback and together grow as a community.

facebook.com/groups/fosteringthesummit

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

At a recent conference, a speaker said something that stuck with me: "Start ugly." It was a powerful reminder that we don’t have to wait for the perfect timing, resources, or plan—we just have to begin. Too often, we get caught in the cycle of achieving, checking off tasks, and moving forward without pausing to ask: What story am I leaving behind? Legacy isn’t built in grand gestures; it’s in the small, daily choices—how we show up, who we impact, and what we pass down.

I was reminded of this in a conversation with my son, who shared a quote that hit him hard: "My toxic trait is that I don’t feel a sense of accomplishment when I achieve something, only a mild sense of relief." That moment was an awakening for both of us—him realizing he had the power to rewrite that belief, and me recognizing that I had modeled that very behavior. Life is an ongoing series of choices, and at some point, we all stand at a crossroads. The question isn’t if we will be remembered, but how. If your current path isn’t telling the story you want, then it’s time to take the next best step. Because love is action. Change is action. And legacy is built one courageous step at a time.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

In today’s world, where we’re often bombarded with surface-level connections—quick likes, heart emojis, and passing hellos—it’s easy to lose touch with who we really are. Yet, the journey to our authentic self is not just essential—it’s transformative. This week on The Courage Coalition, I had the privilege of speaking with Sandra Coates, co-author of More Than Enough and founder of the nonprofit United and True. Her story and mission to help women uncover their true identity resonated deeply with me, as it reminded me of the power of courage to redefine how we see ourselves and others.

Sandra shared her journey of overcoming self-sabotage and learning to see herself through the eyes of her Creator. She explained how deeply ingrained societal labels and expectations often create a dissonance within us, pulling us away from our unique purpose. Whether it's feeling defined by a title—like being a pastor’s wife—or struggling with feelings of inadequacy, Sandra reminds us that these roles and pressures do not define our worth. Instead, it’s about asking ourselves, “What does God see in me?” and having the courage to step forward in faith, even when the outcome is uncertain.

One of the most profound takeaways from our conversation was the idea of not fighting our battles alone. Sandra emphasized the importance of community in healing and growth, saying, “What if we fought for each other?” As she put it, our greatest weapon is choosing connection over isolation, finding strength not just in our own courage but in the shared courage of others. Her work with United and True embodies this, as it helps women break free from societal molds, embrace their God-given uniqueness, and discover the beauty within.

At the heart of this conversation was a call to authenticity—not just for ourselves but for how we lead and show up in the world. Whether as leaders, parents, or individuals seeking our purpose, the courage to be vulnerable, to embrace our imperfections, and to celebrate the masterpiece we were created to be is life-changing. As Sandra so powerfully reminds us, “When you walk into a room, the room shifts because there is no one like you.” What would it look like to honor that truth in our own lives, to lead with authenticity, and to encourage others to do the same? Perhaps, it’s not about chasing a version of success defined by others but about stepping fully into the calling that’s already been placed within us.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

I want to lean into a concept that has profoundly shaped my life—the "33-foot jump." It’s that moment when we’re standing on the edge of everything we’ve ever known, facing the vast unknown, and we make the choice to leap. It's not about perfection, certainty, or a neatly wrapped plan; it’s about courageously stepping into something new despite the fear that comes with it. Because here’s the truth: fear is a natural part of growth. It’s the companion we meet when we dare to step beyond what’s comfortable.

When I look back at my life, I see the 33-foot jump over and over again. At 18, as a pregnant and unwed teenager, the world saw a statistic. I saw a purpose. That leap into motherhood was terrifying—I didn’t know what kind of mother I’d be, and my role models were far from ideal. But deep in my soul, I knew this baby was for me. So I jumped. I ignored the noise, the judgment, and the doubts. Was it hard? Absolutely. Did I stumble? Of course. But I leaned into my faith, my determination, and my belief that I could rise to meet the challenge. That leap taught me that courage isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about trusting the process.

Later, when I opened my home and heart to foster children, I took another jump. I knew it would break my heart—because to love a child deeply, even temporarily, is to risk heartbreak. And it did. But I also knew it was what I was called to do. Those years as a foster mom didn’t just shape the lives of the children who came through my door—they healed parts of me I didn’t know were broken. I learned that courage is not only in taking the first step but in continuing to step forward, even when the journey feels overwhelming.

And then there was my leap into building a business, something I had no experience in. The stay-at-home mom dream I had worked so hard to create and I knew it was time to step into something different for my family and myself. The fear was there—how could I start something new? What if I failed? But I had learned something important from my previous jumps: the only way to grow is to move forward. I didn’t let the lack of a perfect plan hold me back. I asked questions, found mentors, and surrounded myself with people who believed in my vision. And slowly, step by step, that dream grew into something tangible, something powerful.

Now, I’m standing on the edge of another 33-foot jump—launching a foundation to support foster youth aging out of the system. I don’t know exactly how it will look or where it will lead, but I know this: it’s mine to build. The name is registered, the first steps are in motion, and I’m choosing courage over fear once again. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that we don’t need to see the whole path to take the next step.

So, my challenge to you is this: What is your 33-foot jump? What’s the dream you’ve been wrapping up in a neat little box, waiting for the "perfect time"? What fear has kept you on the edge of action? I want you to know that you already have everything you need within you to take that first step. Your dreams, your whispers, your nudges—they are uniquely yours for a reason. Don’t let fear rob the world of what only you can create. Don’t let "someday" become never.

Take a moment today to reflect on your life. Where have you already leaped? Where have you stepped into fear and come out stronger on the other side? Celebrate those moments—they are proof of your resilience and courage. And as you take your next 33-foot jump, know this: you are not alone. Together, as a coalition, we can hold each other up, remind each other of our strength, and walk forward into the lives we were born to live. You are brave. You are capable. And you are already enough.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

There’s a beautiful magic that unfolds when we begin to honor every part of ourselves—our passions, our pasts, and those pieces of us that have been waiting, perhaps quietly, for their moment to step into the light. This is a theme I’ve explored deeply in my own life and work, and recently, I had the privilege of witnessing this transformation in someone I deeply admire. Mirtha’s story—a journey from artist to lawyer to artist to tattooist—reminds us all that our identities are never fixed. They are living, breathing, and evolving alongside us.

Mirtha’s story began with art always feeling like a piece of her story and then she went to college and then law school, beginning her professional life with a career in law, family, and a stable life. But beneath the surface was a longing for something more—something creative and deeply personal. What struck me most about her journey was her refusal to abandon any part of herself. Instead of leaving behind her identity as a lawyer, she asked it to take the seat next to her while her artist-self stepped forward. This isn’t about discarding who we’ve been; it’s about expanding into all that we are. It’s about courageously nurturing those neglected parts of our spirit and letting them thrive.

I loved how Mirtha described scars—both physical and emotional—as proof that we’ve lived, as beauty in their own right. Her work as a tattoo artist now transforms those scars into art, honoring their story while creating something new and meaningful for the wearer. It’s a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t mean erasing what’s happened to us; it’s about integrating it, celebrating it, and allowing it to shape us into something even more beautiful.

For so many of us, especially women who’ve spent decades fulfilling roles and expectations, there comes a moment when we’re called to reclaim ourselves. It’s a call to honor the dreams and desires we’ve set aside for others. The question is: Will you have the courage to answer? Will you embrace the curiosity to explore what’s waiting to emerge? The journey isn’t without fear, but it is profoundly freeing. And as Mirtha’s story reminds us, the act of honoring every part of who we are creates a legacy—not just for ourselves, but for those who watch us and learn from our courage.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree

As we step into 2025, I’m reminded of the incredible power of authenticity—the courage to live in alignment with our true selves, unfiltered by societal norms or cultural expectations. 

Reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of the moments when I quieted my own intuition, trusting external voices over the one that has always lived within me. From becoming a young mother to making significant life changes, I’ve come to understand the profound impact of stepping away from what we’re told is "right" and stepping toward what we know in our hearts to be true.

One of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves is the opportunity to reconnect with who we are at our core. Our culture often celebrates conformity, but I believe true courage lies in embracing the unique light we were created to bring into the world. It’s about trusting those intuitive nudges—whether in parenting, relationships, or personal growth—and understanding that the process of becoming is often messy, uncertain, and deeply rewarding.

This year, I invite you to ask yourself: What legacy do I want to leave? Whether it’s through nurturing your relationships, pursuing a dream you’ve held in your heart, or simply choosing joy in the everyday, know that your intuition is a compass. It was placed within you for a reason. Step forward, even if it’s one small action at a time, and trust that the light you create by honoring your true self will ripple into the world in ways you may never fully realize.

Contact Corree or find out more about Corree and learn about all the ways she does not choose to stay in one lane go here: https://correeroofener.com/

To Purchase Emotional Money click here: Emotional Money

Are you ready to walk with us for https:/https://fosteringthesummit.org  Join us as we change the statistics for children aging out of foster care.

Also, follow me on https://www.instagram.com/correeroofenercoach/ for more inspiration and practical wisdom for your business and life. 

Until next time, keep shining bright!

- Corree