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Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Kendra Perez of Blue Springs, Mo 64015

Kendra Perez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Kendra, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What are you being called to do now, that you may have been afraid of before?
What I’m being called to do now is something I was once afraid to fully step into—choosing myself. After years of pouring my energy into my corporate career at Schwab, I felt a pull I could no longer ignore. I’m leaving that chapter behind so I can dedicate myself to building my natural skincare brand, KShea, and pursuing my Yoga Teacher Certification.

For a long time, fear of leaving stability and security kept me from making this leap. But now I see that my growth, creativity, and purpose live outside of that comfort zone. I’m embracing the unknown with trust that this path will not only allow me to build a business rooted in authenticity and care but also give me the space to heal, flourish, and serve others in new ways.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Kendra Perez, and I’m the founder of KShea Beauty, LLC—a natural skincare brand that began as a passion project in my kitchen and has grown into a space where self-care meets soul-care. For the past several years, I’ve also worked as a System Administrator at Charles Schwab, where I’ve built tools and resources that support thousands of employees. While that role challenged me and sharpened my skills, I felt a deep call to create something more personal and aligned with who I am.

KShea is special because it’s rooted in authenticity, wellness, and connection. Every product is made with all-natural ingredients, intention, and love. It’s not just about skincare—it’s about reminding people to slow down, nourish themselves, and reconnect with what makes them feel whole.

Right now, I’m in an exciting season of transition. I’m stepping away from my corporate career to pour into KShea fully and pursue my Yoga Teacher Certification. For me, these two paths intertwine beautifully—creating products and experiences that help others flourish, heal, and feel empowered in both body and spirit.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
One of the most defining moments in my life came in 2018, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. At the time, I didn’t know what my future would hold, and I had to confront my deepest fears head-on. I chose to undergo a double mastectomy, and while it was one of the hardest decisions and journeys I’ve ever faced, it was also one of the most transformative.

That season of my life pushed me to lean into my faith in God in a way I never had before. It taught me that true strength comes not from having control, but from surrendering and trusting that you will be carried through. Surviving cancer changed the way I see everything—it gave me perspective, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to live fully, with intention and gratitude.

It’s a part of my story that shaped not only who I am today but also why I pour so much heart into my brand and my work. I know what it feels like to be broken down and rebuilt, and I carry that awareness into everything I create and share with others.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that’s held me back the most has been the fear of being too much—or not enough. I’ve spent much of my life shrinking myself, people-pleasing, and trying to fit in because I thought that’s what would keep me accepted and safe. But that came at the cost of my own voice, my dreams, and my authenticity. Now, for the first time, I’m giving myself permission to show up as I truly am—without apology. Choosing to leave my corporate career, to grow KShea, and to pursue yoga certification is my declaration that I’m no longer living small. I’ve realized that the world doesn’t benefit from me hiding—it benefits from me shining.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say what really matters to me is love, authenticity, and connection. They know I care deeply about creating spaces where people feel safe, seen, and valued. They’d tell you that I don’t just want to succeed for myself—I want to grow in a way that helps others flourish too. Living true to who I am, honoring my faith, and building a life rooted in service and compassion are the things they’d say I hold closest.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I lived authentically, loved fully, and left a legacy of light. That I chose courage over fear and gave more than I took

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