About

Hi, I’m Joan Russell! I’m a Change and Transformation Coach, Speaker, and Strategist, helping professionals and organizations turn life’s biggest transitions into their greatest breakthroughs. I don’t just teach change—I live it.

I've always been a multi-passionate entrepreneur, with an unconventional path that includes being a music 'zine co-founder, petsitter, jewelry creator, concert promoter, and A-list event bartender. I also spent years as a corporate executive at companies like Disney and NBCUniversal, later building my career in the Inflight Entertainment industry.

Beyond my professional journey, I’m a world traveler, founder of Intuitive North, and the creator of two thriving communities—Adventures in San Diego and Change Makers and Dream Doers—where I’ve cultivated spaces for over 4,000 people to connect, grow, and embrace change.

But despite my diverse experiences, I know what it’s like to feel stuck, uncertain, and exhausted, wondering when your time will come.

You are not alone!

In a single day in 2008, my life hit reset. I was laid off, my new business crumbled overnight, and my father became incapacitated, needing full-time care. A friend called it my "Control-Alt-Delete moment."

The next three years were an odyssey of failed businesses, trying to sell fashion in a recession (tip: don’t do that), bartending at events like the Grammys and Oscars, and ultimately losing everything—my home, my savings, and my sense of direction. I was at rock bottom.

Then, one day, a Louise Hay book literally fell in front of me at the library. That small moment changed everything. It led me to healing, self-love, personal development, and coaching—and ultimately, to helping others do the same.

Since then, I am grateful to have built a thriving career in an industry I loved for 13 years and moved up through the ranks. I quit drinking and smoking and am thankful for my health and active daily. I am debt free and living in San Diego - a place I’ve dreamed of living since I was 16. I discovered that one of my greatest gifts is helping people navigate major life transitions—and seeing them thrive on the other side.

I’ve trained with industry leaders in coaching and energy leadership and have deep expertise in strategy, mindset work, and transformation. Connecting the dots for people is second nature to me—it's like breathing.

I’ve also studied Human Design, Astrology, Somatic Healing, Meditation, Mindfulness, and Embodiment Practices, bringing a holistic approach to change. Transformation isn’t just about strategy—it’s about aligning with who you truly are.

You’re Not Alone—Your Next Adventure is Waiting

I believe it’s never too late to become the person you want to be. I’m here to be the guide I wish I had during my own journey.

If you're feeling stuck, lost, or uncertain, let's work together to:
✔ Uncover your strengths
✔ Clarify your goals
✔ Create a personalized roadmap to help you move forward with confidence

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Your next chapter is waiting—let’s make it extraordinary.