I'll tell you a little secret about well-trained coaches. We don't like to talk about ourselves. That's because we're trained to talk about you instead. I'll take a little break from that right now so we can satisfy any curiosities you may be having. Then it will be back to you.

 

Let's imagine you're interviewing me and asking these questions that might be on your mind…

 

Why do you do what you do? My favorite thing to do has always been to pay attention to people, learn how they operate and support them in whatever they're doing. From a very young age I can remember conversations with friends that were "coach-like." If they'd had coaching courses when I went to college, I would have taken them. I was thrilled in the late '90's when I heard there was a new profession called coaching. It didn't take me long to get on board. I do this work because it is important to me that my livelihood involves contributing to society and to good in our world. This is the best way I know how to do that. And as life goes on, if I find an even better way, I'll start doing that.

 

Why do you coach student coaches? For one reason, I LOVE working with other coaches as we tend to be a unique, interesting, compassionate and loving people, dedicated to meaningful lives and work. I also feel a deep obligation to contribute to high standards in our profession in any way I can. If my coaching can support student coaches in building their skills, effectiveness and businesses as one component of their advanced training, I know I’m helping create exponential growth in the quality and success in the larger whole.

 

What kind of training do you have? I was trained at The Coaches Training Institute, a global, accredited and highly respected coach training company. I started training in 2001, was certified in 2002 and have been coaching ever since. I also have a PCC (Professional Certified Coach) designation from the International Coach Federation. PCC designations are only awarded to professionals who have coached a great many hours with numerous clients and come recommended by other credentialed coaches. Since my training and certification in 2002 I have added a number of new skill-sets to my approach every year through continuous training.

 

What was your career background? I spent a 20+ years in sales positions, and later as a communication skills trainer inside organizations. I worked in small boutique firms and Fortune 500 companies. Just as I do now, I was either helping customers get their needs met or teaching others how to communicate with or inspire others. Most of us have a common thread running through our careers, regardless of the positions or the companies we have worked for. Mine has been communication and inspiration.

 

Do you coach all of the time? Nope! I'm also still a trainer/workshop leader. I'm on the faculty of The Coaches Training Institute, teaching both the Core Curriculum and the Certification Program. I have taught students all over the world and continue to do so, as I enjoy welcoming new people into this very worthwhile and fulfilling way of working with others. I also create my own private workshops from time-to-time on topics related to change and powerful communication. As one of those people who enjoy variety in work, it's important for me to make my living doing more than one thing, and that they all be related. 

 

What is your philosophy about Change? I think that human beings thrive and grow through change. At the same time, I think at times we'll try almost anything to avoid change. It's human nature to fear change a lot of the time. That's where the challenge comes in. That change "push-pull" makes professional support really important. From my own experience I can tell you that if I hadn't embraced change with both arms and all of my heart I would be living an extremely narrow and boring life, and I know I would be unhappy. I can also tell you that most times when I've made big changes I've had someone skilled and generous supporting me – a mentor or a coach. Without change, I don't believe that happiness, maturity and a life worth living are possible. I also know that change will either happen to you or by you. Do I need to ask you which way sounds better?

 

Why should I work with you, out of all the Certification Mentor Coaches out there? I don't know if you should work with me. There's only one way to find out if we're a fit. Let’s talk!