Krista McLenaghan,

Krista is the founder of Authentically Imperfect Co. and author of the blog Authentically Imperfect on Substack where she gives a vulnerable voice to self-compassion, mindset shifts, and sustainable well-being through lived experience and thoughtful reflection.

A former educator, Krista spent nearly 20 years with the Thames Valley District School Board, teaching primarily Grades 7 and 8 before finishing her career as a Learning Support Teacher. In 2018, after prolonged stress and overwhelm led to significant burnout, she made the courageous decision to change careers. She went on to spend almost five years as Director of the children’s division at a local church, where she led, supported, and fostered meaningful connections with a large team of volunteers.

The compounded challenges of the pandemic, the sudden loss of her father in 2020, and navigating menopause ultimately resulted in a second burnout in early 2023. This pivotal season prompted Krista to invest in executive coaching and personal therapy, where she dove into the deep work of understanding her thought patterns, honouring her true capacity, and learning to manage her energy with greater intention. Through reframing mindsets, rethinking perfectionism, and cultivating self-compassion, she gained clarity about how she is wired—and how to live in a way that feels more sustainable and aligned.

In the fall of 2023, while attending a conference, Krista experienced a renewed sense of purpose and a calling to help others by weaving together her education, professional experience, and lived wisdom. This led to the creation of Authentically Imperfect, where she writes weekly with honesty and heart, with the goal of creating resonance and encouragement for others to gently face their own challenges.

Krista holds a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education with a minor in English from Queen’s University and a Bachelor of Education from Western University. During the pandemic, she completed her certification as a Life Coach.

A patient of Dr. Kelly’s for 15 years, Krista joined the team at Whole Health Naturopathic Clinic in the fall of 2024 as a part-time receptionist. She is thrilled to expand her role, both within the clinic and beyond, to offer compassionate support, coaching, and education, helping others feel seen, supported, and empowered on their health journeys.