We’re looking forward to introducing you to Kelli Oberndorf. Check out our conversation below.
Kelli , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been finding joy in returning to teaching yoga. After teaching consistently for 13 years, I took a long break and wasn’t sure if I’d ever go back. Earlier this year, the idea started to resurface, and I gave it some time to see if it was something I truly wanted. It turns out, it absolutely was! I’m now subbing at a wonderful studio in Lafayette, CO, and it feels so good to be back teaching again. My hope is to have a regular class of my own sometime next year.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kelli Oberndorf, a facilitator and trainer who’s passionate about helping people feel more connected and engaged at work. I created The VIBE Game™ with my business partner, Sara Myers, as a fun and meaningful way for teams to spark real conversations, build trust, and strengthen their culture. I love blending play, insight, and practical tools to help organizations see where their VIBE is strong and where it might need attention. Right now, I’m focused on expanding The VIBE Game™ programs so more teams can create their VIBE intentionally and design the kind of culture they want to experience every day.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I grew up in unusual circumstances. I was an only child raised by a single mom in a lower-income household, yet I lived in a very wealthy community. Needless to say, I stood out…and not always in a good way. I was often bullied and developed a sense of not being good enough, masking my vulnerability with a tough exterior. When I finally left high school, I couldn’t get out of that environment fast enough. Even though I was relieved to move on, the belief that I wasn’t quite enough lingered until I met my now-husband. He saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself. He invested in my growth, helped me build my self-esteem, and encouraged me to embrace my authentic self.
Almost 25 years later, we have two wonderful boys and a life filled with love and joy. I am forever grateful for his unwavering belief in me and for helping me become the person I am today.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say something to my younger self, I would tell her that she is enough. That all of the noise telling her that she doesn’t fit in, is weird, or unworthy of happiness is false and that her life will be more wonderful than she can imagine it. I would tell her to hang in there and keep going, keep growing, and keep finding her truest self.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, I truly hope so! There is nothing worse than when you meet someone in a public setting and they come off as inauthentic. I want to be known as my most authentic self that is kind, generous, and open. I do my very best to bring my ‘real’ self to all the areas of my life.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I spent a lot of years doing what I thought I needed to do and what others told me I should become. Walking away from that was one of the hardest and best decisions I’ve ever made. It was disappointing at first, for me and for others, but it led me to what I now know I was born to do. The creation of Ekatā and The VIBE Game™ has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. Building something rooted in human kindness and genuine connection makes me feel deeply aligned with how I want to spend my time. My hope is that everyone who experiences Ekatā and our work feels uplifted and inspired to bring that same energy into their own world.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thevibegame.org
- Instagram: @teambuildingwithvibe
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellioberndorf
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ekatavibe
Image Credits
Leigh Orne – Headshot
