The Coaching Crowd® Podcast with Jo Wheatley & Zoe Hawkins

Have you ever wondered if coaching could be the right career for you?

In this episode, we explore the reality of a coaching career—the opportunities, challenges, and what it truly takes to succeed. Whether you're thinking about transitioning from your current job, using coaching as a leadership tool, or starting a coaching business, we break down the different paths available.

Many people assume that coaching is only about setting up a private practice, but as we discuss, coaching skills can be used in so many ways; from leadership roles in organisations to supporting employees as an internal coach. We also share our personal journey; how we started in coaching, the unexpected opportunities that arose, and how our business evolved organically through listening to our audience.

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that coaching is a career that you can design to fit your life. Whether you want a full-time coaching business, a side hustle, or a tool to enhance your leadership skills, coaching can provide that flexibility.

We also talk about mindset, why fear of leaving a stable job often holds people back, and why taking small steps towards a coaching career can be the best approach. If you’re considering coaching but feeling unsure, this episode will give you the insight, confidence, and clarity to take the next step.

Key Lessons Learned

1. Coaching is a versatile career choice – It’s not just about private practice; it can enhance leadership, HR, and corporate roles.
2. Fear of change holds people back – You don’t have to quit your job immediately; starting with training is a great first step.
3. A coaching career evolves over time – Many coaches transition gradually, refining their niche and business model as they gain experience.
4. You can create a coaching career that fits your life – Whether you want flexibility, financial growth, or personal fulfilment, coaching can support that.
5. Mindset is key – A successful coaching career isn’t just about skills; it’s about confidence, consistency, and resilience.
6. There are multiple income streams – Coaching businesses can include one-to-one sessions, group programs, courses, and corporate contracts.
7. Investing in coaching skills benefits all areas of life – Even if you don’t start a coaching business, the skills improve relationships, leadership, and communication.

Key Takeaways

• Coaching isn’t just a job—it’s a career you can design around your values and lifestyle.
• You don’t have to have it all figured out—start with training and allow your path to unfold naturally.
• Coaching works well as a career transition—you can build experience while still in another role.
• Corporate coaching is a great opportunity—organisations value coaching for leadership development.
• Fear and self-doubt are normal—taking action, even small steps, builds confidence over time.
• If you’re unsure which coaching qualification is right for you, take the quiz to find your ideal level.

Timestamps

• 00:13 – 00:46: Introduction—why coaching is a great career option
• 00:47 – 01:44: Exploring career choices beyond private practice
• 02:14 – 03:40: How coaching accelerates leadership and career growth
• 03:41 – 05:05: Our journey into coaching—how it started vs. where we are now
• 05:06 – 07:20: The different ways to make coaching work for you
• 07:21 – 08:51: Why coaching provides flexibility and career freedom
• 08:52 – 10:38: How coaching can support financial goals and career transitions
• 10:39 – 12:57: Overcoming fear—why mindset matters more than strategy
• 12:58 – 14:24: Coaching as a lifestyle business vs. corporate coaching
• 14:25 – 16:17: What it really takes to succeed as a coach
• 16:18 – 18:14: Is coaching a good career choice for you?
• 18:15 – 20:11: The importance of community and networking in coaching
• 20:12 – 21:33: How to choose the right coaching qualification for your goals
• 21:34 – 22:02: Closing thoughts and invitation to take the coaching quiz

Keywords:

Is coaching a good career choice, How to become a professional coach, Career transition into coaching, Corporate coaching vs. private practice, Coaching business opportunities, Coaching skills for leadership, Coaching salary and income potential, Coaching qualifications in the UK, Overcoming fear of changing careers, Coaching career paths,

Links:

Coaching Business Lounge (Pricing Strategy Resources): www.igcompany.co.uk/businesslounge

Take the Coaching Course Quiz: www.mycoachingcourse.com

Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training: www.igcompany.co.uk/emotionscoaching

COACHING TRAINING LEVEL 5 https://www.igcompany.co.uk/l5-diploma

COACHING TRAINING LEVEL 7 https://www.igcompany.co.uk/l7-diploma

Purchase our bestselling book ”Deciding to Coach”: https://amzn.to/3UvUe9r

Neurodivergent inclusive coaching programme: http://www.igcompany.co.uk/nd

Resources:

Take our FREE Quiz 'Which Coaching Course is Right for Me?' https://www.mycoachingcourse.com/

Join The Coaching Crowd Community on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheCoachingCrowd/

In Good Company (UK) https://www.igcompany.co.uk/

Check out our YouTube Channel https://bit.ly/378rY9a

Check out our Instagram https://www.Instagram.com/the_coaching_crowd

Work with Jo Wheatley as your Emotions Coach https://www.jowheatley.com

Connect with Jo Wheatley on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jo_wheatley_coaching/

Connect with Jo Wheatley on LinkedIn https://uk.linkedin.com/in/joannewheatley

Work with Zoe Hawkins as your Courageous Leadership Coach https://www.zoe-hawkins.com

Connect with Zoe Hawkins on Facebook https://facebook.com/zoehawkinscoach/

Connect with Zoe Hawkins on LinkedIn https://uk.linkedin.com/in/zoehawkinscoach

Connect with Zoe Hawkins on Instagram www.instagram.com/zoehawkinscoach