Kimberly Reese

Briefly describe your daily job duties.

I create and sell a variety of candles across the United States.

As a person who stutters, share the most challenging part of your job.

The most challenging part of my job is when people see me as just my stutter, and not as a human being.

What are your long-term career aspirations?

My goal is to branch out and sell my candles internationally, with the immediate goal of selling in Africa in 2024.

Did you self-disclose your stuttering during the job hiring process? If so, how did you do it and how do you currently disclose your stuttering to unsuspecting co-workers, clients and or customers?

No, I do not disclose my stuttering. Stuttering is a part of me, but I don’t let it define me.

What is your proudest moment at your current company?

My proudest moment is more general – just that I started with nothing and turned it into something! I’ve loved candles all of my life, and so I worked hard to learn how to produce them, how to market myself, and how to sell, which I now do all over the country.

Describe how stuttering makes you a better, more valued contributor at work.

I am independent and making my own way in this world, never letting anyone disrespect me.

What’s your best advice for people who stutter just entering the workplace and for those in a career striving to achieve greater success?

Command respect and show everyone that you are a hard worker.