Born in New York City, Karolyn Vreeland Blume started her professional life as an attorney with a successful general practice including litigation, real estate, divorce, business and estates. As practicing attorney, Karolyn encountered many diverse situations involving a wide variety of issues and people. She represented Fortune 500 companies, mom and pop businesses, and everything in between. She has vast experience navigating the treacherous waters of local, state and federal governments, neglected and abused children, contentious estate issues and many other legal problems. She is empathetic, compassionate and gives her expertise above expectation.
After 25 years of practice, Karolyn decided there had to be a better way to resolve disputes than beating each other up in a courtroom. That better way is mediation. She has received and given over 1000 hours of mediation training, and has helped hundreds of people and businesses to resolve conflicts peacefully, amicably and economically.
Karolyn is a known and respected international speaker, consultant, facilitator, mentor and teacher, whose presentations are filled with valuable information and engaging humor. She is an expert problem solver and gifted strategist.
She served as adjunct faculty to Muhlenberg and Cedar Crest Colleges, and Penn State University. She moderated a live call-in program for PBS television, and is active in many non-profit and charitable organizations. She is a founding member of Mediators Beyond Boarders International, and is listed in Who’s Who in American Law and Who’s Who of American Women. She is the author of Eat the Elephant: Overcoming Overwhelm.
“Karolyn assisted with a family situation that had brewed for over a decade. She was gracious and accommodating for our specific situation. Karolyn’s professionalism and structure enabled our family members to overcome a significant roadblock, and opened up dialogue for continued rebuilding of relationships. Without her presence, even the meeting would not have been possible.”
—Beth Zeiger, Ph.D.
“I had the chance to meet and work with Karolyn in New Orleans while working together on a project for Mediators Beyond Borders. She is insightful, intuitive and has great instincts. Her ability to focus on what is important and to keep the ultimate goal in mind is remarkable.”
—Thomas Valenti, Founding Member, Mediators Beyond Borders
“Karolyn’s commitment to resolving conflict through mediation is palpable. She has directed her extensive legal training and experience toward demonstrating the business, personal and social benefits of mediation v. litigation. I worked with Karolyn as she relocated her practice to Washington, D.C., where she expanded her opportunities to make a difference. Karolyn is an impressive professional.”
—Dawn Lennon, Founder and Owner, Big Picture Consulting
“When it comes to understanding situations and impacts, Karolyn is the one to hire. Her professional knowledge and skills are exceptional. She is able to communicate on all levels, provide leadership, and works exceptionally hard for her clients. Lehigh Valley, PA lost a valuable resource and business partner when Karolyn relocated to the DC area. I would highly recommend Karolyn.”
—Sally Handlon, President Handlon Business Resources, LLC
“If you appreciate somebody who can help you in a no-nonsense, straight-forward, tell it like it is way (with kindness) then you want to work with Karolyn Blume. I’ve been in business for myself for over 17 years and I don’t impress easily…Karolyn Blume impresses me – a lot! She has an amazing ability to focus in on the issue at hand and quickly help you derive at a solution that makes sense for you. I’ve never seen anything quite like it…I’m amazed by it every time I see her do it. Working with Karolyn is always a breath of fresh air. Do whatever it takes to work with Karolyn in as many ways as possible – you’re life will be better for it. I always come away with something I can use right away, in a practical way, when I work with Karolyn.”
—Diane Conklin, Complete Marketing Systems