Alicia Larkey is a life coach, enneagram educator, podcast and retreat host with a calling to help women live with more clarity, confidence, and emotional alignment. Her coaching approach is personal and deeply relational; it’s not one-size-fits-all advice, but about guiding women toward transformation that lasts. The team peels back the layers of what’s driving patterns in relationships, personal challenges, or career shifts, and builds lives that feel more aligned from the inside out.
In addition to life and relationship coaching, Larkey supports women entrepreneurs as a business coach, helping them bridge the gap between vision and execution; creating structure and systems that helps them succeed with their goals without burning out.
She’s also the host of The Enneagram Girl Podcast, where she shares conversations, stories, and insights to help listeners deepen their self-awareness and emotional wellness through the Enneagram framework.
“One of the most meaningful extensions of my work is hosting my signature event, the Goals & Growth Retreat: A Vision-Building Experience in Scottsdale (January 26-29, 2026),” Larkey said. “It’s a transformative weekend designed to help women reflect, reset, and realign with what matters most through guided workshops, speakers, meals, community connection, and intentional rest.”
AZF: What is your “life motto”?
Every aspect of my business is rooted in the belief that when women are deeply connected to who they are, they lead more authentic, fulfilling, and purpose-driven lives. That’s the heart of what I do in all areas of my business and it’s what continues to inspire me every single day. My life’s motto is ‘happiness is an inside job.’
The wisdom of age helps us understand that deep happiness doesn’t come from external circumstances or other people… it’s something we have to cultivate within ourselves. It’s about choosing gratitude, perspective, and alignment with what matters most to us, even when life feels uncertain. It’s definitely hard to do sometimes, but we can’t just wait for it to ‘happen to us.’
I believe we have to take ownership of our inner state of being – our mindset, emotions, and reactions, and then show up more grounded, intentional, and positive in every part of life. It’s essentially the foundation of what I teach and also the heartbeat of my own personal journey.
AZF: Did you always know that you wanted to be an entrepreneur? If not, when did you realize that it was the right path for you?
I didn’t always know I wanted to be an entrepreneur, but I always knew I was meant to live with purpose and intention. From early on, I felt two deep callings in my heart: to be a fully present wife and mother and to serve and make a meaningful impact in the world around me. I devoted the first part of my adult life to raising three children, and when our youngest reached second grade, I felt that quiet nudge in my heart – it was time to build something I could serve others in. I launched my first business at age 40.
Since that time, entrepreneurship has become an inseparable part of who I am. It’s not just a career path; it’s a soul path. To me, being an entrepreneur means seeing opportunities to help, identifying challenges, and having the courage to create solutions through wisdom, leadership, vision, and heart.
It’s a journey that constantly asks me to grow: to give myself grace, to understand my strengths, to confront my fears and insecurities, and to evolve in ways I never expected. Some days stretch me to my limits… but even in the hardest moments, I can’t imagine not having this career I continue to build on.
Next fall, my husband and I will enter our empty-nesting chapter of life as our youngest moves out to college. And while that will be bittersweet, I’m deeply grateful for how it’s all aligned. I’ve had the incredible gift of being a full-time mom, in addition to the privilege of becoming a driven business woman.
We’re entering this next season with full hearts, strong family ties, and a shared excitement for what’s ahead – all proof that the timing of my entrepreneurial journey couldn’t have been more aligned with the dream I had for myself, my marriage, and my family.
AZF: How do you feel best supported?
I love this question! As a certified enneagram coach (and a type two) who’s naturally wired to support others, it means so much when the people closest to me offer that same kind of care in return. Twos aren’t always great at asking for help or even recognizing when we need it, so when someone pauses long enough to say, “How are you, really?” and genuinely stops and wants to listen, it means the world.
I feel most supported in those moments of real connection, when a friend or my sweet husband takes time to sit with me, ask thoughtful questions, and truly hear what’s beneath the surface. I’m such a verbal processor, so walking and talking (or bonding over chips and salsa!) fills my cup and keeps me encouraged.
AZF: What motivates you to keep going amidst the challenges that come with being an entrepreneur?
My daughter is my greatest motivation. My sons too, of course, but on the days that bring tears or defeat, I think of her and the example I want to set. I want her to see that no matter the challenges, obstacles, or lack of resources, we must always return to the passion that lives deep in our soul. Nothing outside of us should ever silence the parts of our heart that are meant to be shared with the world.
We’re all born with a calling… sometimes more than one. Pursuing those passions helps us discover our unique gifts and purpose. I want her to always know how to find her way back to that place inside her, especially when life feels heavy or uncertain. That’s where hope, clarity, and drive live.
It’s the same reminder I offer my clients: when we lose sight of ourselves, our dreams, or our direction, the work is to simply come home to who we really are. That truth is what keeps me going, too.
AZF: Describe your perfect Saturday morning.
During Scottsdale’s beautiful weather seasons, my perfect Saturday morning starts with an early walk through Scottsdale Quarter and Kierland Commons. Before the crowds arrive, it’s pretty and peaceful enough to enjoy the quiet of the morning while I move and think. Afterward, I’ll pick up my husband, and we’ll head to breakfast at First Watch in the Promenade, our favorite weekend ritual.
Once we’re back home, I love to settle into my cute home office, turn on a good playlist (kicking off with Benson Boone), and start writing. It’s the perfect mix of movement, connection, and creativity – the three things that make me feel most like myself.
AZF: What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a young entrepreneur who is just starting out?
Don’t try to do it all alone. So many new entrepreneurs spend their first few years feeling lost, overwhelmed, and discouraged because they believe they have to figure everything out themselves. You might think you’re saving money by not investing in support, but in reality, you’ll spend more time and energy chasing unfinished goals and doing tasks that drain your passion.
Find a business coach or mentor early on because it’s worth every penny. My business has grown most during the seasons when I’ve had strong support around me: women who hold me accountable, fill in the gaps where I’m not as savvy, and help bring my ideas to life.
I’ve been blessed to work with an incredible strategy coach for years, in addition to adding an integration team (shout out to the Kat Schmoyer Agency!) and an amazing VA. Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and help you stay aligned with it. That’s where real sustainable growth begins.
Learn more about Goals & Growth Retreat by visiting alicialarkey.com or by following along on Instagram @alicialarkey
About the Foundress
The Foundress is a creative community of female entrepreneurs established by Coley Arnold. The women-led networking group currently has over 120 members who receive exclusive access to mentorship from experienced female entrepreneurs and industry leaders; community gatherings that feature expert speakers and the opportunity to connect with like-minded women; as well as monthly Mastermind Groups where members can brainstorm and collaborate together. Learn more at foundress.co.
