Karla Hult
Karla offers the style, substance and rich perspective of an award-winning journalist, a mother “trying to do it all,” and a dedicated daughter dealing with the darkest of diseases.
As a graduate of both St. Olaf College and Columbia University (Master’s in International Affairs), Karla has worked as an anchor and reporter in several markets, covering diverse topics that touch our community: from the international refugee crisis, to local political clashes, to those who leave a lasting legacy. She translates that education, empathy and understanding of diverse issues to delivering the most personable, compelling and passionate delivery as an emcee.
But Karla hasn’t stopped there… after losing her own beloved dad to Alzheimer’s disease, Karla uniquely captures the challenges of what she calls, “So Many Goodbyes,” saying goodbye to your loved one’s ability to talk, walk, remember. We promise… you have not yet heard an Alzheimer’s speaker describe the emotional pain, the financial toll, and the need to “savor what you still have,” with as much compassion, sincerity and power… as Karla.
And even while Karla has become a leader in the fight against Alzheimer’s, she also always reassures others on the journey, “you’re not alone.”
Most Requested Programs
“So Many Goodbyes: An Alzheimer’s Perspective”
People often call Alzheimer’s disease, “The Long Goodbye.” Karla prefers to call it, “So Many Goodbyes…” saying goodbye to your loved one’s ability to talk, walk, remember.
After losing her beloved dad to this dark disease, Karla draws upon her own family’s experience to help others also on this journey. She also sheds light on the crisis, based on her extensive reporting on the topic that resulted in an award-winning Alzheimer’s special.
In short, Karla delivers practical advice, empathy and inspiration to those also saying so many goodbyes.
“Working moms: Too many titles for one Twitter Bio”
You could say Karla’s Twitter profile says it all. She simply ran out of space while listing her life titles: “Mommy. Wife. Daughter. KARE 11 Reporter. Fierce fighter against Alzheimer’s and for refugees. St. Olaf & Columbia University grad. Traveler. Runner.”
And that about summarizes the lives of most working mothers. We help our families by caring for both our children and our aging parents. We strive for success and fulfillment in our workplaces. And oh yes, we try to carve out time for friendships and personal joy, health… peace.
Karla delivers a practical – at times, funny, at times, heartbreaking, at all times, inspiring – speech that touches on so many relatable points… by also drawing on her own family’s painful Alzheimer’s journey, her work as an accomplished and award-winning journalist and, of course, her role as mother of two very strong and demanding young girls.
“Did someone say ‘pivot?!!’”
It’s become a cliché: the desire to pivot within your career or personal life at an important milestone. And while Karla prides herself on avoiding cliches, you can call her the current Queen of Pivots. Yep, she’s embracing this one.
As an award-winning journalist with a Master’s from Columbia University, Karla has achieved professional success. But as a mother of two strong girls and daughter of a dear man who only recently ended his Alzheimer’s journey, Karla recognizes the need to just keep going… recognizing that life changes can inspire you to Change. Your. Life. Karla calls it the beauty of constant evolution (one that’s also guided by faith).
Bottom line, Karla will speak on embracing the next chapter… by drawing upon her own success and challenges to deliver the practical advice and inspiration everyone needs.
Testimonials
Karla did a wonderful job speaking for our Women and Wellness event. Such an inspirational, heart tugging topic and story. The reviews of her session were wonderful and we would recommend her to other organizations in need of a speaker.
- Sandy Larson, Alexandria Technical & Community College
I have worked with Karla extensively for over 8 years and she is one of the most eloquent and engaging speakers on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Karla's personal story about her family's journey with dementia will bring you to tears. But she'll also bring a smile to your face and give you hope for a future without Alzheimer's disease. She will inspire you to action, to make a difference for others who are impacted. Karla is passionate about spreading awareness of this disease and best of all, her compassion shines through when others share their stories with her. - Susan J. Parriott, Chief Executive Officer, Alzheimer's Association Minnesota-North Dakota
“Karla Hult brings an incredible passion, relatability and confident professionalism to every Alight event she hosts. As Master of Ceremonies for our 1600 person Gala Fundraiser, Karla’s grace on stage and with unforeseen snafoos both puts our guests at-ease and inspires them to take action that will change peoples’ lives. Karla’s dedication to the success of each event is clear to everyone in the room. - Chris Kindler, Campaign Director, Alight (formerly the American Refugee Committee)
"I have had the pleasure of working with Karla Hult for several years. Karla has the wonderful ability to listen and capture the key messages of our organization and then adeptly share those messages with the audience at large. This is probably what makes her a great reporter and certainly a terrific emcee. Karla has shared her family's journey with Alzheimer's openly and honestly. Her warmth shines through an event from the initial discussion to the final moment. She brings her intelligence, warmth and humor to the process. Karla's involvement adds tremendously to the success of our event and makes my job so much easier! We are blessed to have her participation all these years." - Margaret I. Winchell, Manager of Special Events, The Lyngblomsten Foundation
"Karla was a caring advocate for the cause. In her role as emcee for People Serving People’s 2019 and 2020 Galas, Karla was a total professional. Karla took the time to establish relationships with People Serving People's leaders, understand People Serving People’s mission of preventing homelessness, and the desired expectations for the emcee role. While emceeing, Karla was approachable, engaging, and exuded a warm presence. Both People Serving People’s Galas were well received by the audience and giving met expectations. As a board member, I would welcome Karla to emcee future People Serving People events!" - Stefani Tygar Barnes