Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlotta Binns.
Carlotta , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Our story really began over a decade ago when we met as friends volunteering in the Austin community. We quickly realized we had a unique synergy—we just worked together seamlessly on projects, and people started noticing our ability to solve complex problems with both expertise and empathy.
We were both a little disheartened by the lack of flexibility and consistency we saw in the public sector. We knew there was a better way to do things, and that we could help other organizations with the same kinds of issues we were often called upon to ‘fix.’
So, we decided to combine our diverse professional backgrounds to create Coeur Strategy. My background is in special education and cognitive science, with a focus on how people learn and adapt. Amber’s is in project management and organizational development. It’s a unique blend of skills that gives us a specialized lens to help both small business owners and educators.
The name ‘Coeur’ is French for ‘heart,’ and it’s the core of our business. We’re committed to implementing our strategies with heart, focusing on the individual behind the business and the passion that motivates each educator. We truly believe that small business owners are driven by a need for empowerment and creativity, while educators are motivated by a deep desire to give back and make a profound change. We’re here to support both of those journeys, helping our clients elevate, innovate, and succeed with a strategy that comes from a place of genuine care.”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
“Oh, it’s definitely not been a smooth road. Building a business while navigating life changes, family responsibilities, and unexpected obligations has been a constant balancing act. But I think our biggest struggle, and one we know so many people face, has been overcoming fear.
That fear is a very real voice in your head, asking if you’ll be enough or if your ideas will be accepted. It’s that imposter syndrome, whispering that all your accolades and certifications might not be enough to truly make a difference. We’ve found that silencing that voice is often the most significant obstacle.
But what we’ve learned is that with risk comes incredible opportunity. Our lived experiences have value, meaning, and worth, and they can genuinely help other people. With age comes a certain courage, and we’re at a point in our lives where we are ready to lean in on our expertise and let that be the loudest voice in the room. This journey has shown us that our story is valuable and worth sharing.”
As you know, we’re big fans of Coeur Strategy . For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Our Mission & Expertise
Coeur Strategy is more than just a consulting firm; we are a partner dedicated to helping small businesses and educational institutions grow. Our core expertise lies in data analytics, market research, and business planning for small businesses, and for educational institutions, we specialize in instructional coaching, professional speaking, and change management.
What truly sets us apart is our holistic and human-centered approach. We believe that strategy without empathy is incomplete. Our diverse backgrounds—one in special education and cognitive science, the other in project management and organizational development—give us a unique lens to address both the logistical and the human elements of every challenge. We don’t just provide a plan; we provide a partnership.
What We Want You to Know
We want our readers to know that at the core of our brand is the belief that every person’s passion has value. We named our business Coeur Strategy, from the French word for “heart,” because we apply all of our strategies with that in mind. We understand that small business owners are driven by a need for empowerment and creativity, and that educators are motivated by a deep desire to give back. We are most proud of our ability to honor those motivations in every solution we craft.
We’re here to help you elevate, innovate, and succeed. Whether you’re a small business owner feeling overwhelmed by administrative processes or an educator looking to implement a new professional development model, we want you to know that you don’t have to do it alone. We’re committed to providing you with the tools and support you need to turn your passion into a thriving reality.
What matters most to you?
That’s a wonderful question. What matters most to us is truly the human experience behind every business plan and educational strategy.
For me, Amber, it’s all about respecting people’s time. I’ve seen firsthand how frustrating and disheartening it can be when inefficient processes waste a business owner’s most precious resource. That lost time isn’t just a hit to the bottom line; it’s a drain on their energy, their passion, and their creativity. For a student, that lost time is a missed opportunity that can’t be reclaimed. We’re driven to streamline systems because it gives people back what they deserve: the freedom to focus on their mission.
For me, Carlotta, it comes down to providing a sense of relief and peace. We know the world can be incredibly stressful, and if our work can offer even a moment of calm—whether it’s helping a business owner feel in control of their future or empowering a student with new knowledge—that’s what makes it all worth it. Our goal is to connect with the individual, understand their unique struggles, and offer solutions that make them feel heard and supported. I also believe that finding joy in your work, however small, is crucial. I collaborate on several joyful educational projects.
Recently we worked with the Thinkery Children’s Museum on their exhibit refresh, consulting on their accessibility for individuals with different abilities! Another passion project is getting an educational program startup launched, Bestie Wonderland, with the talented creative Mandy Maxon of Georgetown. These local projects are really what keeps us going.
Our combined focus on both the practical and emotional needs of our clients is what makes us so proud of what we’ve built. We’re here to help you not just succeed, but also feel good about the journey.
Pricing:
- Educational Workshops: starting 1, 500 per session
- Strategic Business Planning: starting at 1,500.00
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.coeurstrategy.com
- Instagram: @coeurstrategy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1669fHXaBo/
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/coeurstrategyllc/
Image Credits
Alpha Richardson
Joe Jean-Pierre
