Kisha Woods, CEO

  • Portrait of Kisha Woods in a ponytail, wearing a black top and green earrings, against a gray background.

  • Kisha Woods, widely recognized as Coach Kay, is the driving force behind Upgraded MindsetZ, LLC. As an award-winning Certified Life and Business Coach, she wears many hats—motivational speaker, Amazon best-selling author, dual podcast host, community advocate, mentor, and serial entrepreneur. Through her organization, Kisha empowers individuals with transformative coaching, education, media, and mentorship, equipping them with the tools to create a more fulfilling life and unlock their highest potential in both personal and entrepreneurial pursuits.

    Kisha struggled with silent battles with her mental well-being throughout the years, and March 2020 marked the beginning of a self-transformative journey to save herself, which she chronicles in her Amazon best-selling book,‘From Havoc to Healing: 30 Days of Reconditioning.

    Kisha founded Upgraded MindsetZ in June 2020 and has evolved her organization into a supportive platform for individuals focused on personal and entrepreneurial development. Transitioning into full-time entrepreneurship in late 2020, she co-founded UPM Suites in West Peoria, IL. UPM offers a variety of solution-focused resources for emerging business owners to turn their dreams into success and serves as a hub for product and service-based small businesses in the community.

Credentials and Recognitions

  • Accredited Business: Better Business Bureau Central Illinois

  • Certified Life Coach

  • Certification: Cognitive Behavior Therapy

  • Certification: Neuro-Linguistic Programming

  • Certification: Mental Health Awareness

  • Certification: Mindfulness

  • Certification: Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid

  • Community Votes Platinum Winner 2024 - Peoria, IL - Professional Coaching

  • Member: The International Association of Professional Life Coaches (IAPLC)

  • West Peoria Business Hall of Fame - Mindset Coach Award (2023-2024)

  • Board Of Directors - NAMI Tri-County Illinois

  • National Association Of Women Business Owners 

  • Marquis Who’s Who’s

Availability Inquiries | Event Bookings

Kisha is a dynamic speaker whose insights resonate with a diverse range of audiences. She addresses impactful topics that foster growth, motivation, and transformation. Her presentations illuminate the journey of understanding personal values, setting intentions, and aligning actions with purpose, enabling individuals to embrace their authentic selves.

Kisha tackles often taboo subjects, fostering open conversations and promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding, which encourages individuals to celebrate their uniqueness. Drawing from her extensive experience, she inspires budding entrepreneurs by sharing invaluable insights on navigating the complexities of launching a business, translating ideas into reality, and cultivating resilience in the face of adversity.

Whether headlining podcasts, sharing her expertise at networking events, or engaging in panel discussions, Kisha captivates audiences with her depth of knowledge and infectious passion for personal and professional growth. Inviting Kisha to your next event means bringing a catalyst for change who empowers your audience and contributes an authentic and vibrant personality.

Person in pink jacket speaking into a microphone at a table.