Six months into my role as CEO of Dictionary.com, I found myself struggling. My entire career before that had been spent in analytical roles - advising other leaders on decisions they should make, but never having to own or sit with the weight of those decisions myself. I quickly learned that being in the spotlight as the final decision-maker was an entirely different experience.

Admittedly, I lacked the natural charisma that draws people to follow a leader. I felt I had to prove my "CEO-ness" to the team so they would trust my direction. In my efforts to establish authority, I made bold decisions without taking the time to explain the rationale behind them. When no one got on board, I became frustrated and angry. This was my business, after all. Wasn't I supposed to be in charge?

But what I was doing wasn't leadership. It was demanding, sloppy, and doomed to fail - and I could see it coming.

A Life-Changing Introduction to Coaching

I was incredibly blessed to be introduced to an amazing coach named Carrie Radovich. I owe her so much. Most importantly, she took the time to understand me. She saw that my intentions were positive, even if my execution was misguided.

Through her thoughtful and careful guidance, I went on a journey of self-reflection. I began to understand how my own self-doubts and fears were driving my need to prove myself as a capable CEO. Carrie helped me find the courage to be vulnerable - to apologise to my team, admit that I had made mistakes, and ask for their support.

That moment was a massive turning point for me.

Finding My Rhythm as a Leader

With newfound support from the team, I was able to do the unexpected: I learned to listen. I began to hear not only my team but also my own instincts, free from the fear and insecurities that had clouded my judgment before.

We built an amazing culture at Dictionary.com - one of camaraderie and team spirit unlike anywhere else I had ever worked. Together, we shifted strategies, launched new products, radically transformed the brand, and grew the revenue. All of this culminated in a hugely successful exit.

None of it would have been possible without the support and insight I gained from my coach.

Why Coaching Matters

My experience taught me that leadership is not about demanding compliance but about earning trust. It's about being courageous enough to be vulnerable and creating an environment where others feel safe to do the same. Coaching gave me the tools to shift from insecurity-driven decision-making to purpose-driven leadership.

This transformation didn't just change me as a CEO; it shaped the foundation of how I approach coaching today. It's why I created The Cadence Method - to help other business owners find their rhythm, align their teams, and lead with confidence and impact.

If you're a business owner who feels the weight of decisions, struggles with team alignment, or simply wants to take your business to the next level, coaching might be the turning point you need. It certainly was for me.

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