Meet Joy
Leadership Development Coach | Consultant | Trainer | IFS Practitioner | Certified Professional Coach
Joy Zalis Kiefer, PhD, CPCC, is the owner and lead coach/trainer at JZK Coaching and Leadership Development, where she works with both organizations and individuals to foster meaningful growth from the inside out. Joy supports leaders and teams in building strong values-based cultures, effective communication, and collaborative performance, while also offering personal coaching grounded in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Effortless Mindfulness to help clients navigate inner challenges, strengthen self-awareness, and access grounded, Self-led clarity.
With over 20 years of experience in leadership education and coaching, Joy draws from a diverse background in executive leadership, higher education, and international development. She earned her PhD in Cultural Anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis and holds the Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) credential, reflecting her commitment to professional excellence in coaching.
Joy’s expertise has been shaped by a breadth of leadership roles and global experiences—from serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Niger, West Africa, to conducting research on informal leadership and influence. She has worked in international development consulting and spent nearly two decades as a senior leader in higher education, serving as an Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Research at Washington University in St. Louis.
A lifelong learner, Joy has deepened her coaching practice through Level 2 training in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and by earning a facilitator credential in Effortless Mindfulness, approaches that strengthen her ability to help clients access clarity, emotional balance, and Self-led leadership.
Throughout her career, Joy has advised and coached thousands of leaders, teams, and students, helping them clarify goals, enhance leadership effectiveness, and unlock their full potential. Joy believes that anyone can learn and grow with the right strategies and partnership with a committed coach.
“Joy is a compassionate listener and insightful thought-partner.” ~D.M. Transitions Coaching
I can help
Increase your self-awareness
Discover your strengths of character and experience the power of knowing, naming and using with intention, the best part of your essential self.
Build your confidence
Experience the confidence that comes with self-awareness, emotional intelligence and embodying your strengths.
Expand your impact
Learn how to leverage your strengths to maximize your impact on those you lead, serve and influence.