This week I’m putting my money where my mouth is — and offering you a backstage pass to a real coaching session.

What you’ll hear is not a performance, not entertainment, and not scripted.

It’s a genuine coaching conversation between myself (David Garwood, The Solo Coach) and my client, Angela Christine Cooper.

If you’ve ever wondered:

• Will my coach just tell me what to do?

• How is coaching different from counselling or mentoring?

• What actually makes coaching so valuable?

…then this episode may just give you the answers.

Tune in, sit back and experience how clarity emerges, priorities shift, and transformation begins inside a safe, supportive conversation.

Thanks for listening — and if you’d like to find out more, visit ⁠⁠https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/⁠⁠

Persistence doesn’t always come naturally - in fact, I’ll admit, giving up has often felt easier to me. But some of the most meaningful moments in my life and business have come from choosing to keep going, even when it was uncomfortable, messy, or far from perfect.

In this episode, I share my own journey with persistence: from working on cars that felt beyond repair, to launching The Solo Coach Podcast, to stepping onto the stage at Toastmasters for the first time.

Along the way, I talk about:

• Why persistence is like a muscle you can train

• The small, incremental “marginal gains” that compound over time (shout-out to Dave Brailsford)

• My public speaking journey and what it’s teaching me about personal growth

• Five powerful questions to ask yourself when you’re on the verge of giving up

Whether you’re feeling stuck, tired, or ready to throw in the towel, this episode will remind you that the rewards of persistence often outweigh the pain of the present moment and that sometimes, all you need is a pause, a perspective shift, or the right support.

I'd love to hear your thoughts, comments and feedback. Feel free to reach out to me ⁠david@thesolocoach.co.uk⁠ or ⁠@thesolocoach⁠ - Thanks for your listen!

This week I’m joined by the fabulous Alexandra Thornton – High Performance Leadership Expert, Head of Human Alchemy, and author of Intuitive Thinking: 7 Steps to Transform Your Life Forever.

In our energising conversation, Alex shares her journey from archaeologist to leadership coach, and how her fascination with people and behaviour shaped her career.

Together, we explore:

• What outstanding leadership looks like today – and how it can be developed at every level.

• How intuition can be harnessed as a powerful tool for decision-making and growth.

• The role of travel and solo experiences in building self-awareness and resilience.

• The opportunities and challenges AI presents for today’s leaders and organisations.

• Why speaking up, being authentic, and finding “your people” matters more than ever.

This episode left me with hairs standing on the back of my neck – and I think you’ll feel the same. Alex’s energy, passion and wisdom shine through in every moment. Settle in and enjoy this one – it’s a corker.

Connect with Alex - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-thornton-ha/⁠

Connect with David - ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwgarwood/⁠

Email Alex - ⁠alexthornton@wearehumanalchemy.co.uk⁠

Email David - ⁠david@thesolocoach.co.uk⁠

This week I’m pulling back the curtain on my first 15 months as The Solo Coach.

It’s been a journey of high highs, low lows, and plenty of messy middle ground. In this episode, I share the confessions and celebrations of a newly qualified coach building his solo venture — warts and all.

We’ll explore:

• Why your identity shapes your results (and what to do about it)

• The financial watchouts I wish I’d spotted earlier

• Why “burning the boats” might not be the bold move it seems

• How incredible it feels when you sign the client

• And much more…

If you’re thinking of starting your own business — or are already deep in the adventure — I hope my lessons, mistakes, and small wins spark some reflection of your own. Here’s to your journey, your growth, and your success.

Thank you, as always, for listening and for being part of The Solo Coach community!

Contact me and find out more at ⁠⁠https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/ ⁠

In this episode, I sit down with Emily Airey, who made the bold leap from senior project manager to self-employed Virtual Assistant earlier this year. Her journey is inspiring for anyone who feels unfulfilled in their career or knows something’s missing.

We explore:

• What led Emily to make this change

• The challenges and lessons along the way

• How coaching helped her find clarity and courage

• The real value a Virtual Assistant brings to business owners

• Emily’s take on AI and the future of her industry

It’s a conversation full of honesty, encouragement, and practical insight for solopreneurs at any stage.

Get in touch with Emily: ⁠⁠https://www.pink-spaghetti.co.uk/contact-us/virtual-assistant-leeds/⁠⁠

Connect with David: ⁠⁠https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/contact⁠⁠

What if you knew exactly where you were heading in life — and had the tools to get there? In this episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, we’ll uncover the power of vision: what it really is, why it matters, and how to use it as your roadmap to a more meaningful, fulfilling future.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• What a vision really is (and why it’s more than just a goal)

• Four powerful questions to help you define your future

• How to move from vision to action — and actually get results

• Why visualisation works, and how to make it part of your toolkit

Think of it like plotting your course before setting sail — without it, you’re drifting; with it, you’re unstoppable. Grab a notebook and pen, because by the end of this episode, you won’t just see your vision… you’ll know how to start living it.

Find out more at ⁠thesolocoach.co.uk/blog/vision⁠

In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by former primary school teacher turned financial advisor, Nicola Reynolds. Nicola shares her courageous journey from feeling trapped in a career that no longer lit her up to building a business she loves—helping people make confident, informed financial decisions.

We talk about:

• The turning point that pushed her to leave teaching after a decade

• How she retrained from scratch in a completely new field

• The challenges and lessons of starting a business with no client base

• Why standing out and doing things differently matters (including her Yorkshire Tea inspired business card)

• The vital financial skills schools should be teaching children—and how parents can start those conversations at home

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to reinvent yourself and build something meaningful from the ground up, Nicola’s story will leave you inspired, encouraged, and ready to take action. It did, for me!

Find out more about Nicola here: https://partnership.sjp.co.uk/partner/nicolareynolds

Find out more about David here: https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/

And if you liked the episode, please leave us a review, subscribe and comment on the episode. Thank you for your support! #FinancialFreedom #PersonalDevelopment #PathLessFollowed #TheSoloCoach

In this episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I’m sharing something deeply personal: the nine books that have had the most profound influence on my life, mindset, and coaching journey. These aren’t just “recommendations” — they’re the books that found me when I needed them most, shaping the way I think, feel, and show up in the world.

From timeless classics like How to Win Friends and Influence People to modern powerhouses like The Power of One More, each book comes with a story, three key takeaways, and a moment in time that changed everything for me. Expect laughs, reflections, and a big dollop of inspiration. Whether you're a coach, solopreneur or solo pathfinder, these reads may just speak to you in the same way they spoke to me.

We’ll cover:

• Why the right book always seems to arrive at the right time

• How books have helped me overcome fear, build confidence, and take action

• The single book I rate higher than any other (spoiler: it’s not on Amazon)

• What we can all learn from stories of hardship, resilience and reinvention

• Why reading is one of the most powerful tools for personal transformation

Plus, stick around to the end for my surprise bonus book — one that sparked some beautiful family conversations and helped me see life a little differently. If you liked this episode, please like, subscribe and rate the show!

And if you're keen to find out how we can work together, check out https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/ for further details.

In this week’s episode, I sit down with Gareth Allen — Business Performance Coach, commercial funding specialist, endurance athlete, and the founder of GAP Coaching.

What starts as a conversation about coaching solopreneurs quickly evolves into a deeper exploration of men’s mental health, the pressures of high performance, and the power of showing up authentically.

Gareth shares openly about his transition from bank manager to self-employed business coach, the story behind his community group Launchpad, and how completing a back-to-back 5x Ironman event became both a physical milestone and a personal wake-up call.

Together we explore:

• What solopreneurs really need to sleep better at night

• How systems (not hustle) can restore balance and boost performance

• The difference between growing a business vs being busy in one

• The value of honesty, vulnerability and admitting "I don't know" as a coach

• Gareth’s reflections on addiction, endurance, and the fine line between drive and avoidance

• The unseen pressures many men face — and how connection can help

Whether you're a solopreneur, a coach, a high performer, or someone just trying to find more balance — this conversation will leave you feeling seen, heard, and hopefully, a little less alone.

Connect with Gareth - https://www.gapcoaching.co.uk/

Connect with David - https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/

When was the last time you had to talk about money? Negotiated your salary? Quoted for your services? Did it feel awkward? Embarrassing? Did you rush through it, only to walk away thinking, “That didn’t feel quite right…”?

You’re not alone — and in this episode, I’m sharing 5 powerful actions that can help you break the cycle of undercharging, overgiving, and feeling undervalued.

We'll cover:

• How to research what the going rate really is

• How to factor in the full value of you — your story, strengths and unique gifts

• Why pricing isn't just about numbers, it's also about how it feels

• What your everyday actions say about your self-worth (and how to shift them)

• How to upgrade your self-worth, take action, and start asking for what you deserve

Whether you’re a coach, creative, freelancer or professional who struggles to “name your price” — there's value here for you.

You ARE worth it. Now let’s get you owning it.

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I sit down with Rachel Beck – founder of Vigor Vitamins – to hear the remarkable story of how she overcame crippling anxiety, left behind a high-flying corporate career, and created a wellness brand rooted in her deepest values.

Rachel shares openly about her journey from people-pleasing and burnout to clarity, confidence and calm – and how solo travel, healing, and trusting her gut played a huge part.

We explore:

• The truth about anxiety, and how it really shows up

• Why solo travel can be the ultimate life lesson

• What it's like starting a business without a roadmap

• Why Rachel created her own vitamins (and what makes them different)

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever thought, “I’d love to do that, but I’m not confident enough.” Because, as Rachel proves, confidence doesn’t come before action – it grows through doing the thing.

You can find out more about Rachel and Vigor Vitamins at https://vigorvitamins.co.uk

I'd love to know what you enjoyed most about this episode – let me know in the comments!

Do you find it hard to switch off from your business — even when you're not technically “at work”?

In this honest solo episode, I open up about my own struggles with overworking, burnout, and blurred boundaries. I share the wake-up call that forced me to slow down — and the five most effective ways I’ve found to truly rest and recharge as a solopreneur.

You’ll hear:

• Why “relaxing” sometimes doesn’t work — and what to do instead

• The surprising role of hobbies, exercise, and socialising in recovery

• How to protect your mental energy (without needing a sabbatical)

• Why talking to someone — really talking — is a powerful first step

• The overlooked power of deep reflection and what it can unlock

This is not an episode from someone who’s nailed balance perfectly — it’s from someone who’s actively working on it. So if you’ve ever felt like your work is always with you… this one’s for you.

Contact me at david@thesolocoach.co.uk or via Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn for a free 1:1 discovery call. Let me know your thoughts in the comments!

What if stress made you go blind — literally?

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Nicky Lloyd Graeme, better known as The Stress Specialist, to explore her journey from corporate burnout to purpose-driven stress consultant.

Nicky shares the shocking moment her body forced her to stop (a stress-induced migraine that temporarily stole her sight), and the lessons she now teaches others to avoid the same fate.

We explore:

• What stress really is (it’s not just “feeling busy”)

• Why stress is your internal superhero – and how we misuse it

• Practical ways to release cortisol and calm your nervous system

• The role of culture, leadership, and unspoken workplace expectations

• How solopreneurs and leaders can build “mental agility” and stay well

This isn’t a fluffy conversation about bubble baths and yoga (though they help!). It’s a grounded, evidence-based chat about what stress is doing to us, and what we can do to reclaim our calm, clarity and creativity.

Find out more about Nicky here:

https://www.thestressspecialist.com

And find out more about The Solo Coach here:

https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/

Please like, subscribe and comment to let me know what you most enjoyed in the episode!

In today's solo episode, I reflect on my 11-year journey in the world of IT – from apprentice to transition manager – and share the 10 most impactful life lessons I took with me. These aren’t just applied to tech… they’re human, heartfelt, and deeply relevant to anyone navigating career, business, or personal changes.From understanding that “the solution is often at a different level to the problem” to embracing that “true transformation takes time, money and effort,” this episode is packed with practical wisdom, real-life stories, and gentle encouragement for anyone feeling stuck, unfulfilled or on the cusp of something new.Tune in to explore:

• What IT taught me about people, problems and perseverance

• How to know when something (or somewhere) has reached its expiry date

• Why manners, values, and vulnerability are underrated superpowers

• And what “turning it off and on again” might mean for you!

Whether you’re considering a pivot, burning out in your current role, or just curious how a career in IT can lead to life coaching – this one's for you.I'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Get in touch via https://thesolocoach.co.uk/contact or david@thesolocoach.co.uk - thanks for your listen 🙏

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I sit down with Russell Harvey – better known as The Resilience Coach – for a deeply personal conversation about what it truly means to be resilient. Together, we explore the concept of “springing forward with learning,” challenging the idea of simply “bouncing back” from setbacks. Russell shares his unique perspective on resilience, revealing how we can cultivate thriving mindsets, shift from coping to flourishing, and tap into our core strengths.

From role-modelling resilience in the face of adversity to practical steps for discovering your unique strengths and building natural confidence, this episode offers a blend of wisdom, warmth, and actionable insights. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, lost, or ready to step into your best self, this conversation is packed with moments of clarity, encouragement, and hope.

Join us as we discuss:

• What resilience really means (hint: it’s not just about getting through)

• The power of acceptance with good grace

• How to uncover and harness your natural strengths

• Why everyone – even coaches – need support and space to reflect

• How to face life’s toughest moments and come out stronger, with more clarity

This episode is dedicated to Lyn – my number one listener – and to anyone navigating life’s ups and downs with courage and curiosity.

Contact Russell - https://www.theresiliencecoach.co.uk/

Contact David - https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/

In this inspiring episode, I’m joined by Chris Wilson, founder of Speak and Serve and a passionate advocate for authentic communication. We explore how speaking with impact can transform both your business and your confidence, why connection trumps automation in a digital world, and how to embrace failure as a path to personal growth.

We cover:

• Why every great speaker starts with listening

• How to overcome fear of failure and rejection

• The 4 A’s of impactful communication: Attention, Attraction, Aspiration, Action

• The role of ego and self-awareness in your coaching or business journey

• Why picking up the phone beats 100 unread emails

Chris shares his journey from hotel general manager to speaker coach, including a pivotal “line in the sand” moment that changed everything. We delve into ego, resilience, and the importance of listening — not just to others, but to yourself. If you've ever doubted your path or feared putting yourself out there, this episode is a must-listen!

Connect with Chris - https://speaktoserveandsell.co.uk/

Connect with David - https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/

In this episode, I’m joined by Karen Cooke — website creator, business setup adviser, homeschooling parent, and proud van-lifer — to talk about building a business that aligns with your values, not just your bank balance.

Karen shares her story of leaving behind the corporate world of London finance and creating a slower, more meaningful life on the road with her family. From simplifying websites for new business owners to slow-travelling across Europe in an American RV, Karen offers a refreshing take on success, sustainability, and starting small. We talk about:

• Making the leap from conventional careers to unconventional lifestyles

• Why she teaches her clients to do it themselves (even if it means less recurring work)

• The fears and realities of selling up and hitting the road

• How grief and loss shaped her decision to live more boldly

• What to consider when launching a simple, purpose-led business

This conversation is full of honesty, warmth, and wisdom — whether you're a solopreneur in startup mode, a freedom-seeker, or someone wondering if there's more to life than 9–5.

Contact Karen - https://www.kogdigital.com/schedule-a-meeting

Contact David - https://www.thesolocoach.co.uk/contact

In this week's solo episode, I’m sensitively exploring the powerful (and often emotional) process of letting go — and how it can help us move forward in life with more clarity, energy, and purpose.

I’ll be sharing five areas where this has shown up in my own journey, including:

• • Letting go of regret to create space for joy

• • Releasing physical clutter to invite in fresh energy

• • Saying goodbye to old projects, goals and identities that no longer serve us

• • Allowing ourselves to 'grieve the loss', in order to grow.

  This isn’t about quick fixes or radical reinvention — it’s about small, meaningful shifts that can lead to real freedom.

As always, I’m not offering advice — just ideas, stories, and reflections that might support you wherever you're at.

Thanks for listening, and as always, take good care of yourself.

Find out more: https://thesolocoach.co.uk

In this episode, I’m opening up about my own journey as a coaching client — and why working with a coach has genuinely changed my life.

Over the past six years, I’ve worked with three amazing coaches. Each one has helped me in ways I couldn't have imagined when I first started out — from listening deeply when I needed it most, to helping me spot the ways I was holding myself back without even realising it.

I’m sharing the five main reasons why having a coach in your corner can make all the difference — not just in business, but in life too.And honestly, it’s not about quick wins or silver bullets... it’s about having someone who believes in you, even on the days when you’re struggling to believe in yourself.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to work with a coach — or if you’re feeling a bit stuck right now — this one's for you. Thanks for listening!

#PersonalDevelopment #Coaching #MindsetMatters #TheSoloCoachPodcast

Find out more on https://thesolocoach.co.uk/blog

Ever felt stuck — in a job, a routine, or even a way of thinking?

From fear and uncertainty to self-doubt and old stories we tell ourselves, this episode explores why we hesitate, how we limit ourselves, and what to do about it.

I'll be sharing real-life experiences — from travelling solo in New Zealand, to delivering my first public speech, and injecting antibiotics into a Highland cow — to illustrate how capable we truly are when we push past fear and take action.

In this episode:

• • The 6 core reasons we stay stuck

• • Why fear of change, failure, or judgement runs deeper than we think

• • How to stop "kidding yourself" and change your life

• • The power of personal growth through discomfort

• • Why you can have it all — success, wealth, happiness, love and fulfilment

This is a powerful reminder that your story is still being written — and you are the author. Tune in for a motivational nudge that might just be the turning point you didn’t know you needed.

Find out more at The Solo Coach blog and follow us on Instagram and Facebook!

#TheSoloCoach #PersonalGrowth #SelfDevelopment #EmbraceTheFear #PersonalDevelopment

In this inspiring episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing Matt Leonard, a former NHS doctor who courageously swapped scrubs for spreadsheets to become a Mortgage and Protection Advisor.

Matt shares his powerful story of realising he was on the wrong path during the pandemic and how he channelled his medical skills into a mission to support people through one of life’s biggest decisions—buying a home.

This conversation dives deep into:

• What it’s really like to leave a stable career and start again

• How Matt uses his NHS experience to offer personalised, values-led advice

• The misunderstood world of mortgages and protection

• Practical tips for first-time buyers (and their parents!)

• Why your earning potential might be your greatest asset

Whether you're a solo pathfinder contemplating a career pivot, or someone navigating the home-buying maze, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and courage. Connect with Matt on Facebook and find out more about The Solo Coach here.

Feeling stuck or overwhelmed with your next move? In this episode, I explore the powerful mindset shift of working backwards—starting with the end in mind and reverse engineering your way forward. I’ll share practical tools to help you get clear on your values, navigate problems from new perspectives, and take aligned action without the pressure of getting it all perfect.

Find out:

➡️ Why your biggest frustrations point to your deepest values

➡️ How to replace overwhelm with clarity using reverse thinking

➡️ The “problem-less problem solving” approach to stuck situations

➡️ A fun mindset shift: how to guarantee failure (and do the opposite)Reframing failure, fear, and self-doubt through a solo lens

When you work backwards from what really matters, you’ll find the courage to take your next step forward—calmly, clearly, and completely on your own terms. #solopreneur #mindsetshift #clarity #TheSoloCoach #personalgrowth #podcast

What’s it really like to spend 42 months travelling solo across the world? 🌍

In this episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Jamie, the Solo Travel Aficionado, who has spent the last 3 years on the road, exploring 5 continents and meeting thousands of people. We first crossed paths in Malaysia in 2023, and today, we’re diving into the realities of long-term solo travel—the highs, the struggles, and the lessons that only a life of adventure can teach.

✨ What we cover:
✅ The truth about solo travel – beyond the Instagram highlights
✅ How long-term travel reshapes your identity & mindset
✅ The struggles no one talks about – burnout, loneliness, and constant goodbyes
✅ Why even full-time travellers crave stability and deeper connections
✅ The importance of mental rest and how to truly recharge while on the move

Solo travel isn’t just about exploring new places—it’s about discovering who you are when no one is watching. Whether you’re considering your first solo trip or just curious about life on the road, this episode is full of insights, laughter, and raw authenticity.

#SoloTravel #TravelLessons #FindingYourself #TheSoloCoach #NewPodcast #Identity #MentalRest #LifeOnTheRoad

If you’re feeling unfulfilled in your current job or lifestyle but don’t yet know what would light you up, this episode is for you. I break down five powerful questions (plus a bonus!) that helped me uncover my purpose—and they might just do the same for you.

We’ll explore:
🔎 What truly interests you? (Hint: The clues are already around you!)
🗣 What topics light you up in conversation?
🌟 Who do you admire—and what does that say about you?
💭 What dreams have you been ignoring?
🚀 Who could help you get unstuck?

This is your treasure map to clarity, built from my own experience of finding direction after years of feeling lost.
🎧 Tune in now and take the first step towards a future you’re excited about!
📢 Let me know in the comments: Which question resonated most with you?
#StuckInARut #LifePurpose #FindYourPath #PersonalGrowth #CareerChange #EntrepreneurMindset #SolopreneurSuccess #TheSoloCoach #NewPodcast

What if the secret to success and happiness was as simple as gratitude? In this episode, I chat with Zoë Bishop—wellbeing advocate, community leader, and founder of the ‘Blessed Before You’re Dressed’ movement.

We talk about how gratitude rewires the brain, how encouragement can change the course of someone’s life, and why showing up for yourself is the key to thriving as a solopreneur.

We also dive into parenting, faith, and the small daily habits that lead to a more fulfilled life. Tune in for a heartfelt, inspiring and extremely valuable conversation!

Get in touch with Zoë: https://blessedbeforedressed.co.uk

The Solo Coach: https://thesolocoach.co.uk

#TheSoloCoach #GratitudeMatters #BBYD

Got an idea but feeling stuck on where to begin? You’re not alone! In this episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I break down five powerful steps to help you get unstuck and take action—whether it’s launching a business, changing careers, or chasing a big goal.

I share insights from my own journey, lessons from top entrepreneurs, and practical strategies to turn uncertainty into momentum. Learn how to seek the right advice, develop key skills, invest in support, take massive action, and protect your energy along the way.

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start—this is your sign! 🚀

🎯 Tune in, take notes and most importantly—take action!

🔗 Visit thesolocoach.co.uk to find out more
#SoloCoach #EntrepreneurMindset #PersonalGrowth #TakeAction #GetUnstuck

In this episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I sit down with Scott Kirk—copywriter, SEO expert, and bookmaker—to dive deep into the world of digital content, search engine optimisation, and the realities of freelancing.

We explore:

• How SEO really works and why it’s crucial for your business.

• The impact (and limitations) of AI in copywriting.

• Common SEO mistakes and how to avoid them.

• The highs and lows of self-employment and breaking free from the 9-to-5.

Scott shares invaluable insights into content strategy, keyword research, and the mindset needed to thrive as a freelancer. Whether you're a solopreneur, content creator, or just curious about boosting your online presence, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

🔗 Connect with Scott: skcopywriting.co.uk📩 Contact me: david@thesolocoach.co.uk

#SEO #Copywriting #Freelancing #Solopreneur

Today's episode is for anyone who is feeling fed up, bored or unfulfilled in their job, and seeking a change but unsure if, when or how to go about doing it?

I'll be sharing 5 key questions to ask yourself, along with sharing some inspirational success stories, to help you make a more informed decision.

Thank you for listening, and let me know what you think in the comments! 👇

Have you heard the one about the business consultant, the financial advisor, and the coach?

Coaching can feel like a mysterious concept, but in this episode, I break it down—no jargon, no fluff. Through coaching theory and real-life stories (including my #1 client success story), I’ll demystify what coaching really is, how it works, and how it could help you.

Whether you're a coach, a coaching supervisor, or just curious about the power of coaching, this episode has something for you. Tune in—I guarantee you'll take away something valuable!

Thinking about solo travel but unsure if it’s the right move for you? In this episode ofThe Solo Coach Podcast, I dive into thefive key questions you need to ask yourself before setting off on a solo adventure.

We explore:
🌍Is solo travel right for you right now?
🎯How can you be strategic about your trip? (Sabbaticals, skill-building, and career growth)
🚧What obstacles stand in your way? (Money, career, relationships)
🔍What are you hoping to discover? (Personal growth, clarity, new perspectives)
💡What sacrifices are you willing to make?

Whether you're considering a career break, a long-term backpacking trip, or just a short solo getaway, this episode will help yougain clarity, plan with intention, and take action toward your dream trip.

In this episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I sit down with my good friend, Sjirk Ament, to talk about his transformative year of solo travel. Sjirk shares his journey from studying psychology to taking the leap into a year-long adventure across New Zealand, Australia, and Southeast Asia.

We dive into the highs and lows—facing fears, navigating travel burnout, and the emotional challenge of returning home after an epic journey. Along the way, Sjirk shares powerful insights on embracing change, tuning into your intuition, and overcoming self-doubt.

00:00 – Welcome & introducing Sjirk: How we met in New Zealand
01:49 – What inspired Sjirk to take a year off to travel after university
03:17 – Facing fears: His first solo trip to Thailand at 17
10:35 – Taking off for New Zealand: Excitement, uncertainty, and expectations
15:16 – The highs: Buying a car, the freedom of solo travel & hidden gems
– The lows: Travel burnout and struggles in Australia
22:27 – Journaling and self-reflection: Coping with difficult moments
31:44 – The hardest part: Returning home & rebuilding life after travel36:30 – Lessons from the journey: Tuning into intuition & embracing change
39:21 – Sjirk’s advice for anyone considering a big life change

If you’ve ever thought about stepping outside your comfort zone—whether through travel, a career shift, or a new adventure—this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

🎙️ Follow The Solo Coach Podcast and stay connected for more stories on taking the path less followed.

In this first episode of The Solo Coach Podcast, I share what this podcast is all about and why I created it. My mission is to support and empower solopreneurs, solo pathfinders, and solo travellers like you to see your true potential and take confident steps forward!

00:00 – Welcome and introduction to The Solo Coach Podcast.

00:38 – What does it mean to be a solopreneur? Balancing spinning plates in your business.

04:17 – Supporting solo pathfinders: Navigating career changes and finding fulfilment.

10:05 – Guiding solo travellers: Discovering purpose and planning transformative journeys.

13:16 – What to expect from future episodes: Stories, lessons, and actionable insights.

Join me as we start this journey together—I can’t wait to help you embrace your solo path with confidence and purpose! #Solopreneur #CareerChange #SoloTravel #TheSoloCoach #LifeCoaching