Kate James

Personal Development

Kate James is a coach and mindfulness teacher working with people who are seeking purposeful lives.

In workshops and annual retreats in Bali and Byron Bay, Kate introduces participants to a range of different styles of meditation as well as the principles of mindfulness and how they can be integrated into every day life.

She is the author of Believe in Yourself & Do What You Love and Be Mindful & Simplify Your Life.

Where were you born?

I was born in Manly, NSW and my parents spent the next decade moving around Australia. When I was 10, we moved to Hobart where we lived in a house surrounded by bush at the foot of Mt Wellington. By the time I was 20, I was chasing bright lights and Melbourne has been my adopted (and much loved) hometown ever since.

What other jobs have you had?

Before starting my business 15 years ago, I worked as a business manager for filmmakers and architects. I knew from a very young age that I would have my own business and so I made a point of spending lots of time around creative entrepreneurs.

What themes are recurring in your work?

I love books, people, nature, psychology, meditation, good food and I’m fascinated by the human brain.

What have been the highlights of your career?

For the most part, it’s the people I meet and the stories they share. In 2009, a highlight was being invited by Tourism NT to assist with a campaign to help people hold onto their holiday calm. They flew me to Darwin and took me on a road trip to Kakadu – which was truly magical.

Where have your works been published?

My books have been published in Australia and my guided meditations are available on a couple of apps that reach a global audience.

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about mindfulness, meditation, creativity, people and in my personal life, cooking beautiful food. I love sharing ideas about how we can live with more equanimity.

Haven’t I seen you before?

Maybe! I’ve had lots of press over the years including a number of radio and television interviews and appearances in Mindfood, body+soul, The Age, Elle, WellBeing, Marie Claire and Madison (amongst others).

Anything else you’d like to share with us?

Almost 25 years ago, meditation literally changed the way I think. It’s so simple but so powerful – I’m passionate about making it easy to understand.