Hello!
I’m Karen Whalen: marketing educator, AI coach, and glass artist. I help creative entrepreneurs and solopreneurs build marketing that feels grounded and sustainable, so your business can grow without crowding out the parts of life that really matter.
I’m an active member of Geneva Lake Arts Foundation in Lake Geneva, and when I’m not teaching or building marketing systems, you’ll find me walking by the lake or enjoying family and friends. And, of course, making art: fused glass and mosaics, plus watercolors.
I’m not here to turn you into a non-stop self-promoter. I’m here to help you communicate clearly, show up with a steady rhythm, and keep your energy high for that creative work you actually LOVE!
What I help you build
A clear, simple message you can use across your website, emails and social posts
A repeatable routine for planning and follow-through
Practical ways to use AI for research and drafting, while keeping your unique voice intact
A plan that supports your real schedule (shows, seasons, launches, busy weeks and all)
How I work
My style is calm, structured and encouraging, because most creative business owners don’t need more motivation. They need a way to make marketing lighter and less decision-heavy.
Here’s what you can expect from me:
Clarity first: we simplify the message before we add more content
Small steps that compound: the goal is momentum you can maintain
Tools you can keep using: templates, prompts, and workflows that reduce friction
Respect for your time: systems designed to fit into a life, not take over
Why this is personal for me
I’ve spent years teaching marketing, and I’m also a working creative. I know what it’s like to try to make something beautiful (expressing your you-ness) while also needing to make the business side work.
That’s why my programs are designed for real people with real lives; they’re practical, paced, and focused on follow-through, not perfection.
You’ll like working with me if…
You’re talented at what you do, but marketing feels vague or draining
You want a plan you can reuse and refine, not reinvent every week
You’re open to using AI as a support tool (not a replacement for your one-of-a-kind voice)
You prefer steady progress over “hustle” energy
This may not be a fit if… you want done-for-you daily posting or a high-volume content strategy. My work is focused on building real customer relationships through sustainable marketing habits.
Ready to start?
Option 1 (Free): Start with the Weekly Marketing Starter Kit
A quick reset that gives you a simple structure and gentle prompts to get moving.
Option 2 (Guided): Join the 6-week Marketing & AI Tune-Up
A paced program to build a clear plan and a workable routine you can keep using.