Kari Vadis has been an ELCA Life Coach since 2024 and is in the process of becoming a Professionally Certified Coach & End of Life Coach. People describe Kari as authentic, easy to get to know, and non-judgmental. She is passionate about coaching and listens with curiosity to what is said and to what is unsaid. She holds deeply the belief that each person is whole, loved and matters. Coaching is a powerful way of helping people step into their own fullness. Kari coaches both individuals and groups.
A little background: Kari grew up in Santa Cruz, CA, earned her B.A. from Sonoma State University and her M.Div from Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary. She was ordained as a pastor in the ELCA in 2003 and has served congregations in Wisconsin ever since. She and her husband currently serve as co-pastors and live with their 2 daughters.
Kari is a Grief Support Specialist (UW-Madison) as well as a trainer with Darkness to Light which empowers adults to prevent, recognize and react responsibly to child sexual abuse. Kari has years of experience helping pastors, congregations and community groups take steps to protect children.
Kari can regularly be found at the coffee shop in deep conversation and once the snow melts she and her family enjoy backpacking, camping and being on the water.
