NOT ALL COACHES ARE CREATED EQUALLY
This past week reminded me exactly why I love what I do.
I had the privilege of being part of the official jury for Keychange US’ 2025 Talent Development programme, and I also spoke at the Women in Music Executive Hours event.
In both spaces, (through applications and in live conversations) I heard stories I know too well.
Women and gender-fluid people spoken over, underpaid, underestimated; and worse: sexual harassment, racism, homophobia, and abuse.
Sadly, none of it surprised me - but it still was tough to hear.
It’s one of the biggest reasons I became a coach: to be the support to women in music that I never had, but always needed.
What stood out at the WIM event was how many women were searching for support, unsure of how to find it. They asked me…
👉 How do you find the right coach?
👉 How often should you work with them?
👉 And how do you know they’re legit?
Here’s my take 👇
Find someone who gets your world. Music has its own challenges. A coach who knows the industry can understand your world.
Check their credibility. There are plenty of people calling themselves coaches. Look for real training and accreditation.
I trained with Co-Active Training Institute and I’m certified by the ICF (International Coaching Federation), the largest professional body worldwide, with a strict Code of Ethics and tough assessments.
ICF has 3 levels: ACC (100+ hours), PCC (500+ hours), MCC (2,500+ hours).
I’m currently an ACC and aim to apply for PCC next year.
Why does this matter? Because it means your coach has been tested, supervised, and held accountable.
Find your pace. I recommend coaching every 2 weeks: enough time to act, not so long that you lose momentum.
Here’s what it actually looks like to work with me:
A free 45-min exploration call to see if we’d enjoy working together
An in-depth questionnaire to get you reflecting before we begin
A 90-min Discovery session to go deep on your goals
Regular 60-min sessions every 2 weeks
Actions you choose (with deadlines and accountability) for ‘homework’
A 60-minute Reflection session to look back on what you’ve achieved and what’s next
For my Headliner package, I also offer an in-depth, science-based assessment of your strengths, values, and leadership style
There’s no standard ‘one size fits all’ in the coaching industry.
There’s different packages, different pricing - so find the coach that fits your needs.
The best way to do this is ask questions and get on a call with them and see if you would actually enjoy working with them.
Also some businesses will help fund coaching, so don’t be afraid to ask your boss / HR team.
We don’t have to accept the music industry as it is. With the right support, you can lead, grow, and succeed on your own terms.
Ready to stop being overlooked and start building the career you want?
Book a complimentary 45-minute exploration session here - I’d love to hear your story and chat about what’s possible.
Your music industry coach,
Sarah
