Twelve 2023 Startup Reflections

Taking stock of the first few months of Cento and dreaming into what 2024 has in store.

Hello readers and subscribers—

Next Monday I’m sending a guide on goal-setting for systems thinkers—my first “how to” content. Keep an eye out! But in the meantime, I thought I would share a bit more about my own 2024 goals as a writer and publisher, including a few ways that I could use your help.

Three new intentions for 2024 . . .

• I’m going to add some coaching tools, frameworks, and “how to” articles. But I wouldn’t exactly describe this content as filling a gap. There’s no shortage of information on improving one’s self or workplace culture—we don’t seem to be suffering from a lack of advice, expert or otherwise. And yet why doesn’t more change? The issue is that the power of the coaching model is in the experience—it’s not the kind of knowledge that people can simply read or be told. Because of this I want to be intentional about what I contribute. I don’t want to add more noise.

• I want to launch community events. What will they look like? Maybe coaching demos, QAs about coaching or various training programs, even guest workshops. My goal is to launch later in 2024. Stay tuned.

• I’d like to offer institutional subscriptions. This can be a way for businesses, corporations, or teams to subscribe and strengthen the culture of coaching in their organizations. (I’m also offering discounts to nonprofits, schools, and universities.) Please reach out if you are curious about this!

Three features that will continue . . .

• I’ll continue to publish interviews. I’ve found that many people arrive at coaching as a profession from a very thoughtful, deeply personal place—let’s hear about that. Not everyone wants to run a standard coaching practice, either. Many people develop cool businesses that build on their coach training in unique ways—let’s explore them.

• I’ll continue publishing long-form essays and stories. Storytelling is my preferred way to build context, culture, and understanding, and there’s lots to explore in this field. Various reports cite the coaching industry’s global valuation at somewhere between $1B and $20B (a lack of standardization is one explanation for this range.) Yet I speak with people regularly who do not know what coaching is, and especially how it’s distinct from mentoring or consulting. Additionally, we’re in the early stages of understanding the potential of new business models; how coaching will become a more diverse and inclusive field; and even how technologies like AI may factor in. I’m curious about all of this.

• I want to help people connect with coach training programs. The first time I googled “how to become a life coach” was after I’d completed my MFA in creative writing and was exploring where to take my career next. I had an intuitive sense that I might like coaching but knew little about it, and it took me years to find my way. In publishing interviews with coaches that include where they studied and certified, I’m hopeful that people can find quality programs faster and with more confidence.

Four ways I could use your help . . .

It’s fun to see how this project is resonating already—thank you, thank you. Next steps, I need your help:

• Will you invite others to subscribe? Your introductions and recommendations would be wonderful.

• Will you send me suggestions of coaches to interview? Thus far, I’m working from my personal and extended network, and I’d love to expand it. If you know an awesome coach (or if you are one!) please get in touch.

• Do you have questions about coaching? Maybe it’ll trigger an idea for an essay, or launch an “ask an expert” column. (Your question could be the first!)

• Who should I follow? What other writers or creators are exploring the space of coaching, personal development, and workplace culture? Would love your recommendations.

Finally, I didn’t expect how much my own coaching practice would deepen as a result of this venture, but I see it every day. It’s an honor to be in conversation with you, and I’m excited to continue. My email is stephanie@stephaniecoaches.com if you want to say hello.

Happy holidays,

—Steph