About Melanie
I pushed for 20 years to get good at things, always focusing on what I needed to get better at or what others said were weaknesses of mine. I grew a lot, but when I was turning 40 I decided to change my approach. I no longer want to focus on deficit-based learning and development. I want to deepen my strengths and superpowers.
Way back in my teens, the magic of watching people discover their true potential inspired me. At that time I was working as a wilderness instructor. Then and now I’m drawn to what happens for people at the moments in life where things shift. My favorite part of my professional work (and even my friendships) is listening to other people. I love daydreaming with them about their aspirations and overcoming challenges. People always said our conversations helped them get unstuck.
It's my purpose to help people get the most out of those points of transformation. The wilderness can be an amazing teacher, but so can stepping up to new challenges in life or in a career. I’ve seen both for myself over time.
The growth I invested in during those 20 years of pushing, I did in partnership with coaches. Each of those coaches held certifications in a variety of disciplines. I found them to be a great catalyst for growth in me. Now, as a professionally trained and certified coach, I aim to deepen my natural aptitude for self-reflection, deep listening and motivational synthesis.
I use a critical analysis about power and privilege in my coaching. I’m not using any one tool. But rather, noticing where those forces are showing up in what people are grappling with. I ask questions that help clients think about how systems of oppression influence their ideas and the belief underlying them. I believe that uprooting those systems of oppression is the only way for all of us to reach our full potential. Together we explore how to reach your full potential.
For my coaching discipline, I completed my ICF Accredited Coach Training with the Hudson Institute. I received my Masters in Social Work and Masters in Public Administration. I completed my BA in Community, Environment and Planning. Alongside my education, I have built my career in nonprofit leadership. In 2023, I wrapped up 11 years in executive leadership at Summer Search and stepped happily into a Learning and People Development role that is a great fit for me!
In my role as Learning and People Development Partner, I build learning experiences across our teams and coach managers and leaders who are mentoring adolescents. My coaching practice is a way to extend this skill to a broader audience. Coaching gives me energy and diverse perspectives to better serve the people I work with in both of these roles. LinkedIn
I like to spend as much time as possible outside. I walk miles and miles every day and try to look out over water whenever possible.
We can work together over Zoom or in whatever setting will help you look out over your next chapter with clarity and hopefulness.