A bit about me
"Nothing can dim the light that shines from within."
–Maya Angelou
Hi, I'm Steph.
I’m a development coach, former lawyer, and author of Free to Flourish.
I began my career as an intellectual property lawyer, first in private practice and later in-house. For years, I was good at figuring things out, getting things done, and doing what was expected of me.
Eventually, I realized I had spent a lot of time learning how to succeed and much less time learning how to understand myself.
Coaching helped me change that. I began to see the patterns that were shaping how I worked and lived, question some of the assumptions I had carried for years, and pay more attention to what actually mattered to me. Over time, those small shifts led to some much bigger ones, including leaving law and finding a different way forward.
That experience is at the heart of the work I do today. I’m endlessly curious about what makes us who we are: the patterns we develop, the stories we tell ourselves, what we want, what gets in our way, and what becomes possible when we can see ourselves more clearly.
Today, I work with individuals, groups, and teams through coaching and facilitation. I don’t believe there’s one right way to live or work—or that any of us needs to become someone else.
Sometimes we just need enough space to step back, understand what’s going on, and find our own way forward.
"Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all."
–Helen Keller
Experience
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Certified Professional Coach, Integral Coaching Canada®
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10+ years mentoring, coaching, and supporting people through growth and change
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15+ years practising law, in private practice and in-house
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Certified in Interactive Guided Meditation with Jack Kornfield
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Speaker and facilitator on self-awareness, stress, burnout, and professional development
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Volunteer with the Lawyers Assistance Program of BC
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J.D., M.Sc., B.Sc.
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And plenty of experience navigating change myself
A bit more
I remarried in 2022 to the love of my life and my now partner of 8+ years. Together, we have a blended family of three dogs and live in Rossland, British Columbia, Canada. We recently left our long-time home in Squamish in search of a little more space, quiet, and adventure.
I love a serious challenge, the kind that not only illuminates the cracks but also the abilities you hadn’t before seen in yourself. I’m an Ironman® and Iditarod Trail Invitational finisher. I’m passionate about supporting others as they challenge themselves. I love laughing and finding the humour in the struggle.
TESTIMONIALS
Jodie O., Rossland, BC
"Steph is an incredible coach who helped me recognize my core values and, more importantly, how to live in alignment with them so I can actually feel like I'm succeeding in life."
Did you know that your employee benefits might cover coaching?
Many plans reimburse services under health spending or personal development accounts. Some employers also offer professional and leadership development funds. Coaching isn’t just a personal investment—it can strengthen clarity, confidence, leadership, and long-term sustainability, which benefits both you and your organization. It’s worth checking with your HR or benefits provider—you might have access to support that can help you move forward with greater purpose and balance.