Change is a constant in our lives. I’m interested in how we can kick start it, embrace or claim it, or at times simply survive it. Living into change happens when we bring the very best that we have within ourselves, to meet it.

For over 35 years, I’ve worked professionally with people in the midst of life change. For some, change is a cause for celebration. For others, an occasion of tears. For yet others, the faithful exercise of putting one foot in front of the other, and repeating… …… and for most of us mortals, it is some challenging combination of “all of the above.”

I have accompanied artists, executives, students, prisoners, clergy, parents and other good people trying to make their way. I have sat with them in the midst of life and the midst of death, as a chaplain, therapist, professor, principal of an academic institution and, more recently, as a coach. You can find more details of my professional path on my LinkedIn page.

Coaching engages personal values that don’t often make it to a CV or a resume. For me, that begins with personal authenticity and integrity, a commitment to kindness and compassion and valuing the unique paths of others. It means finding the courage to live the big questions, the spiritual questions of life, without being sure of the answers. Ultimately, I am committed to doing something that makes a difference in people’s lives.

All of this influences how I work as a coach. My style is transparent and direct. I am deeply committed to my clients’ goals but clear in naming the challenges as I see them. I don’t turn away from the difficult issues. And when it’s needed, I’m ready to be around for the long haul.

-Phil Joudrey, DMin