Meet Ellen Busch | Author, Coach and Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ellen Busch and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ellen, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Knowing whether to keep going or to give up is one of the hardest decisions we face, but for me, the answer has always come down to one thing—purpose.(dis)Empowered exists because I refused to accept the limitations placed on me. I had every reason to give up. Experts told me I wasn’t capable of earning a college degree, let alone a master’s. I was written off as someone who wouldn’t achieve much. If I had listened to them, my story would have ended there.

Writing a book, like overcoming adversity, is a long game. It requires perseverance, discipline, and just as importantly, knowing when to step back and recharge. There were moments during the writing and publishing process when fear, doubt, and exhaustion made me question whether I should continue. Was my story worth sharing? Would anyone listen? It took reminding myself why I started—to help others heal and show them that they, too, can rewrite their lives. That purpose always outweighed my doubts.

At the same time, it’s important to take the time to reflect and ask yourself if you’re on the right path. Pushing forward blindly isn’t the answer—true perseverance comes with self-awareness. Are you still passionate about your goal? Does it align with your values and long-term vision? If the answer is yes, then keep going, even if the road is difficult. If not, it’s okay to pivot. Sometimes, stepping back isn’t quitting—it’s an opportunity to realign and find a better path forward.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been anything but conventional, and that’s what sets me apart. I’ve faced significant challenges—being diagnosed with dyslexia at an early age meant I was often underestimated and told that I wasn’t capable of academic or professional success. Despite those limitations placed on me by others, I persevered, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. This experience instilled in me the mindset of playing the “long game,” which has served me throughout my career.
Professionally, I have built a career in healthcare technology, focusing on implementation, training, and customer success. My ability to connect with people, navigate complex systems, and drive successful outcomes has allowed me to make a real impact. What sets me apart is my resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to empowering others—whether that’s through my work in digital health solutions or through my book, (dis)Empowered.
Writing my book was one of the most challenging and fulfilling endeavors of my life. It required discipline, vulnerability, and the courage to share my story with the world. Publishing wasn’t just about telling my truth—it was about helping others find their own strength. The most rewarding part has been hearing from readers who feel seen, validated, and inspired to reclaim their power.
My journey has not been easy. I’ve had to overcome self-doubt, systemic barriers, and personal loss, but every challenge has reinforced my purpose. The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that persistence, self-advocacy, and the willingness to ask for help are key to success.
What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that resilience is a choice. No matter what obstacles you face, you have the power to rewrite your story. My mission—whether through my career, my book, or my speaking engagements—is to inspire others to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If a friend came to visit me in Colorado, the itinerary would depend on the time of year, but no matter the season, adventure and great food would be at the heart of it!

Winter Itinerary
Colorado in the winter is a snow-lover’s paradise, so if my friend enjoys skiing or snowboarding, we’d hit the slopes at my favorite resorts—Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, or Beaver Creek—for breathtaking runs and après-ski relaxation. If they’re not into skiing, we’d still enjoy the beauty of the mountains with snowshoeing or hiking around Dillon Reservoir, taking in the stunning alpine views. We’d also visit the picturesque town of Breckenridge for ice skating, strolling its charming Main Street, and enjoying a warm drink at one of its cozy coffee shops. Evenings would be spent indulging in delicious meals at local favorites, like Rootstalk in Breckenridge or Sweet Basil in Vail.

Summer Itinerary
Summertime in Colorado means endless outdoor exploration. I’d start by taking my friend to the Flatirons in Boulder for an invigorating hike, followed by a visit to the iconic Pearl Street Mall to browse unique shops, watch street performers, and dine at a local favorite like The Kitchen or Salt. Another must-visit is Garden of the Gods, where we’d walk among the towering red rock formations and soak in the breathtaking scenery. For a true Colorado adventure, we might take a scenic drive up Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park or go rafting on the Arkansas River.

Year-Round Fun
No matter the season, I’d make sure we had time to relax and enjoy some of Colorado’s incredible food scene. Whether stopping for craft coffee at Boxcar Coffee Roasters in Boulder or enjoying a farm-to-table meal at The Wolf’s Tailor in Denver, my goal would be to share the best flavors the state has to offer. If my friend was up for it, we could also catch some live music at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, one of the most stunning concert venues in the world.

No matter the time of year, Colorado offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights. My goal would be to give my friend an unforgettable week, filled with the best experiences Colorado has to offer!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely. My journey, my book, and the person I’ve become are not solely my own doing—I owe so much to the people who supported, challenged, and believed in me when I struggled to believe in myself.
First and foremost, I dedicate my shoutout to my parents. They refused to accept the limitations placed on me and instead found ways to help me grow beyond them. They encouraged me to explore the world outside of academics—teaching me how to navigate the ocean, giving me the opportunity to learn to ski, pushing me to overcome discomfort, and, most importantly, instilling in me the belief that I was capable. Even after their passing, their lessons and unwavering support continue to guide me.
I also want to recognize the coaches, therapists, and mentors who have helped me rebuild my life after trauma. Their guidance allowed me to heal, shift my mindset, and rediscover my power. Special recognition goes to Commander Mark Divine, (SEAL USN Retired), and the Unbeatable Mind coaches, specifically Dennis Stoika, Jim Brault, and Luke Tan. Training with them helped me understand how discipline, resilience, and perseverance enabled me to push through the most difficult moments, including writing and publishing (dis)Empowered.
Finally, I want to acknowledge my publisher, Jessica Buchanan, my writing coach, Kate Gray, and the readers who have connected with my story. The conversations, messages, and feedback I’ve received from people who found hope in my book remind me why I wrote it in the first place. This journey has never been just about me—it’s about all of us who are learning to reclaim our power and thrive.

Website: Info@ellenbusch.com

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