about
"Freedom is just another word, for nothing left to lose."
Janis Joplin
Hello, I'm Yvonne Winkler
I’m a certified Life Coach, Menopause Specialist, Women’s Wisdom Guide, certified Birkman Personality Assessment Professional, and the Amazon best-selling author of my memoir, Freedom Seeker: Reclaiming Feminine Wisdom. My mission is to guide women 40 and older through life’s transitions, helping them reclaim joy, feel worthy, and embrace a life of meaning and balance.
My journey to freedom
I grew up behind the Iron Curtain in former communist Germany, surrounded by the stifling grip of conformity and fear.
Escaping that environment was my first act of reclaiming freedom, but the real work began within. Breaking free from limiting beliefs and societal expectations has been a lifelong journey—one that’s taught me the power of resilience, self-trust, and living in alignment with my values.
After moving to Canada, I spent two decades working in corporate environments, climbing the ladder and checking the boxes of what society deemed successful. Yet, deep down, I felt disconnected—like I was living someone else’s idea of a fulfilling life. Along the way, I made the difficult decision not to become a mother, a choice that challenged “norms” and the deeply ingrained narrative that a woman’s worth is tied to motherhood.
My rebellion didn’t stop there. I also chose sobriety, stepping away from the crutch of alcohol to fully face life with clarity and courage. This decision not only transformed my health and relationships but also deepened my connection to my authentic self. Each step in this journey brought me closer to the freedom I craved—not just from external expectations but from the internal fears and doubts that held me back.
Today, I use my lived experience to help women break free from their own constraints, embrace their individuality, and create lives that reflect their deepest values and desires.
Why Menopause coaching Matters
I became a certified Menopause Specialist to address a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of women’s well-being. For many, midlife can feel like a storm—filled with physical changes, emotional uncertainty, and a loss of direction. But this season also offers incredible potential for growth and renewal. I support women in navigating these transitions with clarity, empowering them to embrace this phase as a time to reconnect with their bodies, rediscover joy, and redefine what’s possible.
Understanding You with Birkman
To truly support my clients, I use the Birkman Method—a scientifically backed personality assessment that provides deep insight into an individual’s strengths, needs, stress behaviors, and motivations. This tool allows me to uncover the unique traits that make you, you. Whether you’re navigating career changes, relationship challenges, or seeking personal clarity, the Birkman Method helps us create a tailored coaching experience that aligns with your values and goals. It’s more than just understanding who you are—it’s about discovering how to thrive as your authentic self.
Author of Freedom Seeker
My memoir, Freedom Seeker: Reclaiming Feminine Wisdom, shares the deeply personal story of how I broke free from the confines of fear and self-doubt. Through my experiences, I explore themes of courage, authenticity, and the strength found in vulnerability. It’s a book for any woman who’s ever felt lost and is ready to find her voice.
A Collaborative Spirit
I’m also proud to be the co-founder of the YL Harmony Planner, a tool designed to help busy women align their schedules with their values and goals. This planner reflects my belief in cyclical planning—embracing natural rhythms and seasons to create a life that feels intentional and harmonious.
My Philosophy
Freedom isn’t a destination, it’s a daily choice
I believe that when we take time to nurture ourselves, set boundaries, and honor our intuition, we not only transform our own lives but also inspire others to do the same. My coaching blends practical strategies with mindfulness and soulful inquiry, offering women the tools they need to reclaim their power and live authentically.
Let's Connect
If you’re ready to embrace this season of your life as an opportunity for growth and transformation, I’d love to connect.
Schedule a Discovery Call to gain clarity, uncover your unique strengths, and take the first step toward a more fulfilling, balanced life.