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Welcome to Pause First Academy

A Note from Kim Colegrove

Opening the Circle


After nearly a decade serving trauma-exposed professionals, I’m opening the circle.

In 2014, I lost my husband to suicide after his 30-year law enforcement career. That devastating loss changed the course of my life and my work. I was determined to understand the mental and emotional toll of chronic stress and unprocessed trauma, so I immersed myself in the science and practice of healing, resilience, and nervous system regulation.

Over the past decade, I’ve worked exclusively with trauma-exposed professionals—first responders, healthcare workers, veterans, and others. My books and the creation of Pause First Academy grew directly out of that work.

I bring nearly 50 years of personal meditation practice and more than 15 years of professional teaching experience to this space. Before focusing on trauma-exposed professionals, I taught stress management and wellness programs in corporate settings like Garmin International, United Way, the Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Court Reporters Association, and others.


My work is evolving. Here’s what’s changing.

I’m currently working on a new book that explores nontraditional healing and wellness modalities as complements to mainstream methods and Western medicine.

As I research and write, I’ll share what I’m learning through my newsletter and YouTube channel so my audience can explore these topics alongside me. 

I welcome anyone seeking practical tools to support stress management, emotional resilience, and overall well-being.

 

While you're here, explore my books, courses, bundles, and free resources to see what might support you right now.

AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS

Contact us for more information about in-person, in-service training, conference keynotes and breakout sessions, and webinars. *Ask about the in-person version of LEARN to PAUSE, Kim's signature course.

[email protected]

TESTIMONIALS

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I learned so much!

Jo Swensson, Law Enforcement Educator, Owner of Olivia-Bell Holistics

I took the 21-Day meditation course from Kim and I learned so much! Up until that point I'd only been doing guided meditation here and there because I wasn't really sure how to do it on my own. Kim broke it down into easy to follow steps, boosted my confidence and took the unknown out of the practice. Now I have a daily meditation practice that I feel confident about and look forward to.

Enjoy the grounded, approachable style

Kenny Schroeder

Kim's meditation practice has been a powerful part of my wellness journey. I genuinely enjoy her grounded, approachable style and the way she meets everyone exactly where they are, whether they're new to meditation or are carrying deep emotional weight. As a first responder, having tools like this to stay centered is essential, and Kim makes meditation not only accessible, but something I truly look forward to. She creates space for healing, and that means everything to me.

I learned I CAN meditate!

Glenda Pratt - Department of Corrections

Pause First Academy has taught me that I can indeed meditate. My mind tends to race all the time, and I felt that there was no way to shut it off. I learned through taking courses through the academy, that I can indeed learn to let those thought go and just drift by. Thank you Kim Colegrove and Pause First!

Amazing training

Erica Lopez, MSW, LSW - Police Social Worker

"Thank you for an amazing training! I learned a lot from it and took many new resources with me that I will definitely use and pass along to the officers at my agency."

A new and healthier life

Randy Beaton - Fire/EMS

Let me say that the Pause First Academy is a valuable and useful tool that I have made great use of. As a recently retired first responder, with 21 years experience/exposure in the role of firefighter/AEMT, I find the material offered extremely helpful in building and maintaining skills of resilience. Having said that, I have been able to process my own PTSD diagnosis and take steps towards a new and healthier life. Many thanks to you all.

Making a difference

Jennifer Shevey - Law Enforcement

I had the opportunity to meet Kim at a training and was so impressed by her story and passion behind her mission. She is making a difference in the first line, boots to the ground, first responders that struggle. Many struggle in silence and either don't know how to ask for help, or believe that asking for help is a sign of weakness. I love that the training teaches a group of officers how we can make a difference and then provides us the tools to make it happen. We can then not only help those in need, but teach others to help people.

William B., Military Veteran

Kim is a warrior of the internal plane. She can provide you with proven, effective, science-backed tools to promote greater internal strength and contentment, and I would urge you to take that first step. Doing so is the best thing I've ever done for myself and my family.

ALL PRODUCTS

I believe healing, support, and education should be accessible and affordable—not a luxury. Explore standalone courses or save money by choosing a value bundle that fits your needs and budget.

What people are saying about my signature course, Learn to Pause

"I was worried this course would be too "woo-woo'" or warm and fuzzy for me. I loved this course! I'm so happy I attended this session."

"This was a much-needed session. I appreciated the science and evidence around the need for the practices that Kim taught. I am very inspired to make this a priority in my life."

"Great presentation. A well needed reminder to take time for ourselves. Also, easy techniques to do anytime."

"This was an awesome session and provided additional tools and techniques for me to continue my practice of self-care. I enjoyed connecting with Kim and sharing experiences."

"I thought she was a very good instructor. I appreciated her sharing her story and why this is so important to her."

Start Here: Standalone Courses

Choose one focused course and go at your own pace. No pressure. No overwhelm.

Value Bundles

Choose the option that fits your goals, budget, and learning style.

Free Resources and Tools

Support without spending.