The Executive Coach in the Corporate Forest: A Business Fable

Chapter 4:A Clearing in the Woods

J.C. had not taken on any partners, even though there was enough work. Instead, he had formed alliances with other coaches — two in particular, and both women — Allison Centarus and Elizabeth “Liz” Penrith whom he’d met at the UVa Hospital when he was ill. Allison had been a physician and Elizabeth had been a minister, but both by now had become master coaches and worked with very different clienteles and in their areas of professional expertise. Allison worked primarily with doctors, nurses, and healthcare executives; Elizabeth focused on ministers, boards of directors, and professional communicators. The three of them shared advice, laughter, and tears at their weekly meeting every Thursday. All their clients ...