Testimonials

I would not be the U.S. Congresswoman for the state of Vermont if it were not for my coach, Laura Coyle. I truly believe this. The decision to run—was a decision that was facilitated by Coyle. I say “facilitated” because she eased and enabled that tough decision by constantly reminding me of my personal values and why running for political office was an integral part of who I want to be in the world. Laura is a gifted coach. She is the right combination of humor and candor, and she possesses a deep understanding of just how difficult—but how vital—it is to live authentically.

I’ve known since I was a teenager that I wanted to run for higher office, but my career and kids sidetracked me along the way. I also had serious doubts that an out lesbian could be elected to statewide office. Simply put, Laura’s coaching reminded me—brought me back—to my true self. She asked the right questions at the right time and assisted me in constantly reflecting back on my authentic self. We all know women need a special grit and sense of self to run for public office; Laura builds up a woman candidate by frankly and lovingly mirroring back what she hears and sees. She acknowledges psychological and emotional barriers, and she helps a candidate to tame those inner saboteurs that may prevent her from running. She also recognizes and honors the talents and fire that each woman has within them.

Another of Laura’s gifts is that she straightforwardly holds my feet to the fire and helps me fight for what is crucially important to me. When I first hired her, another client referred to her as “a pit bull” that works in the service of your best self. I think she captured her feisty energy and tenacity with that analogy, but Laura is not just a terrific ball of energy. She is highly intuitive and absolutely understands that women candidates need meaningful and apt prompts to remind them of why they want to take on such a crazy, intense project in the first place. Win or lose, I knew I would be proud of the campaign that I ran. Laura’s coaching ensured that I would strive to be absolutely authentic while employing all the critical nuts and bolts needed to run a great campaign. But I did win—and upset a favored “white old boy” in the race. Voters crave something different. Laura Coyle excellent coaching can be that critical difference.

Sincerely,

Becca Balint, 

U.S Representative Becca Balint -Vermont 

My experience with Laura Coyle has been extraordinary.  In three rapid fire sessions, Laura was able to clearly guide me to brave steps that I needed to take to resolve an issue.  In my lifelong career in corporate America, I have seen and experienced the benefits of coaching in the professional and personal lives of my colleagues.  Through the dynamic alliance of co-active coaching, intuitive questioning and being held accountable, individuals create solutions they may not have envisioned before they were coached.   Laura is insightful, relentless, and a master at listening at such a deep level, that she really sees and hears you.   She also hears what is not being said, and that is where the magic happens.  

D M Rock

Government Sector Marketing Positions

AT&T, Unisys, Wang Global, Getronics, and Exxon.

To say that my coaching work with Laura Coyle has been transformative would be an understatement. But it’s the only word that comes close to representing the fundamental – and life-altering – changes I’ve experienced in both my professional and personal life since she started coaching me in 2020.

Having had the opportunity to be led, mentored and taught by several truly great leaders over the past 30 years, my bar is set pretty high. As Patient Safety Officer for a healthcare system, I’ve come to expect that same level of expertise and inspiration in myself as I lead, teach and mentor others. It’s been a great gig, and I have genuinely loved my work and the impact it’s had on the organization. But two years ago, I was at a crossroads as to what my next act would be. Do I slowly exit stage left and drift into retirement, or do I reinvent myself entirely? I became all-consumed with this hugely important question while at the same time struggling with a work relationship with a new boss that was shattering my confidence in myself and my work.

When I overheard a conversation between Laura and my wife (who was being coached at the time), I knew right away she was exactly what I needed. From my first introductory call with Laura to my ongoing work with her today, I have gained a lifetime of insight into my values, dreams, goals, and self-limiting thoughts that prevented me from seeing the endless possibilities that lie before me. Surprisingly, my work with Laura has permeated every aspect of my life – from improving interactions with my boss and re-instilling confidence in the quality of my work to figuring out what my next act will be and deepening my relationships with those around me. To understand what it means to be authentic and honor my values is perhaps the greatest gift I’ve gotten from my work with Laura – and one I did not expect!

It sounds almost cliché, but I guarantee you, it is not. The co-active coaching model is powerful in and of itself, but it’s Laura’s manifestation of that model that takes it over the top. She is honest, raw, authentic, perceptive and insightful. It’s really a dance, as they say, because you want to follow where she leads. Hers is a space where it is safe to explore what is novel and possible, and that challenges old assumptions and feelings. Whether it’s a difficult and life altering situation, or a quick debrief about a conversation, she is fully present, with you every step of the way, every opportunity a teachable moment. It works because she brings out the best in you. And when that happens, everyone benefits.

Laura is extraordinary. I hope you have the opportunity to experience her gifts.

Alexandra Heintz, CPHQ, CPPS

Patient Safety Officer

Southwestern Vermont Health Care

Bennington, Vermont

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