EP 06: Where Does the Story Begin?

Introduction:

In this episode, I had the chance to test drive the technology used to capture this conversation with Joan Kling, a friend and fellow traveler on the path of coaching and leadership. Joan and I met in 2012, and while we don’t see each other often, our friendship took root and every time we speak, I leave feeling lighter and carry with me a deep sense of goodwill.

In today’s episode, Joan and I talk about a deep and early experience that shaped her life, her decision to move to San Diego, the evolution of her career, and why she chose to pursue a coaching certification. We touch on themes of building confidence, examining self-worth, and doing battle with imposter syndrome. She gives some tips on how she navigates these internal mine fields and also what to look for in a coach.

Joan is a fantastic soul with a ton of wisdom and life experience. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I enjoyed the conversation.

But…before we jump in, I wanted to reflect on and shout out to Drew Dudley. So often, we don’t know of the positive impact we can have on others. I was reminded of this recently, while watching a Ted Talk by Drew Dudley called Everyday Leadership. He tells a beautiful and brief story from his past, and it has inspired me to think more about the people who have had an impact on me. This is one of those videos that has deeply influenced my own thinking about leadership and how to show up in the world. I’ll include the link in the show notes. Thank you Drew Dudley, for sharing your thinking with the world!

Show Notes:

  • Joan’s move from Philly to San Diego. (3:40)
  • Joan and I talk about an early difficult and impactful life experience. (5:00)
  • 2012: Kris and Joan’s friendship begins…(11:10)
  • We discuss Joan’s career background, her decision to get a Master’s degree, and how she decided on a program. (12:00)
  • “If you don’t know what Code Enforcement is, that’s a good thing!” (14:50)
  • I ask Joan how she decided to pursue coaching, and she shares her feelings of it being a calling. She tells us about the process of becoming certified, and what it meant for her confidence. (17:05)
  • Joan: “When I coach, I feel I’m in touch with the divine.” (20:00)
  • We touch on the struggles of growing a business, the amount of work and commitment it takes, and some of the inner work needed to be done. Joan shares her tips and tricks for navigating the self-doubt that comes from walking in unfamiliar territory. (21:15)
  • Joan shares her recommendations for what to look for in a coach. (30:40)

If you are interested in learning more about Joan and her coaching practice you can find here in these places:

Links/Resources:

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