I am often asked “Who coaches/mentors you?”

My answer is, “Who does not?” Whether they knew it or not, every client that I have ever coached has been my teacher. My teachers, religious leaders, employers, employees, family members, athletic coaches, politicians, civic leaders, strangers, and men and women from all walks of life have coached me. I am a student of life. I learn from several somebodies every day. I am open. I love to learn. I love to live.

However, here are some of the specific people who have mentored me in my life:

I spend at least one hour every day listening to and being coached by the Spirit. That Coach is available to everyone.

My mother, who raised 5 kids as a single parent taught me how to work, to contribute, to love, to achieve and to share. My father Roy, who chose to leave our family when I was four, has been one of my best mentors / teachers. From him, I learned what not to do as a father.

My first grade teacher was Mrs. Smith. She taught me about caring for others. Mrs. Guiver, my second grade teacher, taught me to how to include people and to value them as they are, no matter who they are or are not. Mrs. Gailey taught me how to experience being loved. She kissed me on the forehead every day. She knew I needed that little extra something. (My mom worked three jobs and there would be times that I would seldom see her during the week except briefly early in the morning.) I loved going to school and being kissed and hugged by Mrs. Gailey. I love her so much. Just thinking of her warms my heart. Mrs. Wrigby was my fourth grade teacher. She taught me about service and how to value teamwork. My fifth grade teacher was Mr. Fernilius. In a certain way he served as a father figure for me. He taught me how to play competitive sports. He let me know that I could excel in school, sports, community, et cetera. Mrs. Johnson, my sixth grade teacher was another great coach. I could go on with every teacher at every level of education up to and including Drs. Ron and Mary Hulnick at the University of Santa Monica, where I got my Master’s degree in 2001.

There are so many people who have coached me by giving part of their lives and part of themselves to me: Barrus, James Abate, Sylvia Carter, Ellen and JP Forbes–my maternal grandparents, Donald Livingstone, Rick Eyre, Don Budinger, Werner Erhard, Steve Chandler, Byron Katie and Iyanla Vanzant, each of my adult children, and many others. There are hundreds.

Perhaps my greatest coach and mentor is my wife, Amy. She has taught me about kindness, grace, compassion, being, spirituality, humility, presence, forgiveness and love. She is by far the most amazing mentor I have experienced. I am in awe of what she has taught me and the patience she has with me.

I am so thankful for ALL of those who have, who are, and who will be my coaches, mentors and guides. I know it will only get better and I am open : )

Loving you. Be Blessed.

Steve