A Coleman Conversation: Karen McHugh

December 17, 2025

Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher

A Coleman Conversation: Karen McHugh

In this episode of A Coleman Conversation, Bob Coleman sits down with Karen McHugh to mark her retirement from the SBA industry and reflect on a remarkable 40-plus-year career. Karen shares how an unexpected entry into SBA lending became a lifelong vocation focused on education, mentorship, and relationship-building, and discusses the legacy she hopes to leave behind—making SBA lending more understandable, approachable, and human. The conversation also explores her transition into a new chapter as a grief, life, and loss coach with The Pelican Bridge, where she continues her calling of helping others through clarity, empathy, and connection.

Watch episode here

Topics Covered:

✓ Karen McHugh’s 40+ year journey in SBA lending and how she found her passion for education
✓ Her work with NAGGL and the importance of training and professional development in SBA
✓ The legacy of making SBA lending more accessible, less intimidating, and more human
✓ Transitioning from SBA leadership to grief, life, and loss coaching with The Pelican Bridge
✓ How personal loss reshaped Karen’s purpose and led to a new professional calling
✓ Parallels between SBA education and life coaching: listening, clarity, and empowerment
✓ Advice for the next generation of SBA professionals on integrity, learning, and service
✓ Why SBA lending is ultimately about people, relationships, and helping dreams move forward