I Help Professionals Speak Up, Earn More, and Lead Boldly.

From Small-Town Dreams to Executive Coaching Excellence

My name is Shawna Thompson, and my journey as an executive coach began in rural Alberta on a beautiful farm. Born into a family of entrepreneurs, I excelled academically and seemed destined for success. Yet fear held me back from pursuing post-secondary education and the bigger life I’d dreamed of.

This wasn’t just about my career—I wanted to show my children, especially my daughters, the importance of education and never limiting their potential. Imposter syndrome had held me back for years, but I refused to let it determine my future any longer.

For years, I lived small, letting life consume my ambition. Then everything changed when my mother passed away. As a full-time mom with a house full of children, her death became the catalyst that awakened me to my untapped potential. I realized I possessed valuable skills and knowledge that could transform into the meaningful career I’d always envisioned.

Refusing to remain in a dead-end rut, I made a bold decision. Like the transformational journeys in classic shows (think Beverly Hillbillies, The Jeffersons, Fresh Prince of Bel Air), I moved my family to a larger centre for greater opportunity. I enrolled in university and graduated with a BA in Professional Communications.

Shawna thompson looking serious and empathetic

Breaking Through Barriers: Education and Empowerment

When I discovered professional coaching, I knew I’d found my calling—a way to help others live their biggest lives and become the heroes of their own stories. I earned my Certified Executive Coaching certificate and now specialize in helping professionals overcome the same barriers that once held me back.

What Makes My Coaching Different

I focus on empathetic listening combined with strategic questioning. I listen deeply to my clients, then ask the challenging questions that illuminate growth opportunities. As I tell my clients, “that’s where we grow—in those areas where we need someone to direct the light.”

  • Confidence coaching for leadership presence
  • Imposter syndrome breakthrough sessions
  • Salary negotiation training and preparation
  • Executive presence development
  • Leadership communication skills
  • Professional development planning

My personal experience with overcoming fear, pursuing education later in life, and building successful businesses gives me unique insight into the challenges my clients face. I understand firsthand what it means to break through limiting beliefs and step into your full potential.

Professional Experience Across Industries

My diverse career spans multiple industries, many male-dominated, where I honed my leadership skills and understanding of workplace dynamics:

  • Oil and gas industry – navigating complex corporate environments
  • Hospitality sector – mastering customer service excellence
  • Retail, writing, youth work, non-profit, and marketing – gaining comprehensive business experience
  • Automotive aftermarket repair – building relationships in technical fields
  • Wine industry – developing business acumen and networking skills
  • Retail, writing, youth work, non-profit, and marketing – gaining comprehensive business experience
  • I’ve successfully started and operated three businesses, including one in partnership with my husband, while developing expertise as a public speaker and training program developer.

Life in British Columbia’s Wine Country

I currently live in the stunning South Okanagan region of British Columbia with the love of my life, our children, and two large dogs who mistakenly believe they’re lapdogs. When I’m not coaching executives and leadership development, you’ll find me gardening, hiking the beautiful trails of the Okanagan Valley, writing, crafting, and indulging in my passion for reading.