Susan Ruth James line art

Thought Partner. Strategy Partner. Accountability Partner.
Supporting Your Growth & Prosperity.

About
Connect + Create Change
Susan James

My greatest joy is connecting with people. Collaborating to create change or something new — whether it be a new program, a new team, a new system, a new habit or a new perspective — fills me with inspiration and hope.

My work is rooted in relationship building, emotional observation & intelligence, and self care. I approach coaching by supporting and modeling self education, self examination, vulnerability, curiosity, non-judgement, and accountability.

I’ve done a bit of everything, including serving tables, performing in theatre, childcare, and working with nonprofits. I’ve built and scaled strategic initiatives, teams, community programs, learning sessions, and events that transform company culture, promote a higher level of engagement, and align with organizational mission and values.

My intention as a coach is to participate in a process that is collaborative, inspiring, and empowering. I hope to strengthen communities by supporting individuals, teams, leaders, and organizations dedicated to increasing consciousness, inclusivity, transparency, and well being.


Services
Let's Actualize Your Vision

I serve individuals who

  • need support creating and actualizing their vision
  • want to change careers or contemplating a career change
  • want to increase their self-awareness and emotional resilience
  • want to increase their self-esteem, confidence, and enthusiasm
  • want to develop and sustain new perspectives, attitudes, skills, behavior
  • want to create new narratives
  • need support navigating conflict and healing

I serve leaders who

  • manage individuals, programs, and teams
  • want to grow in their self-awareness while increasing effectiveness and accountability
  • want to cultivate trusting relationships through listening, empathy, and understanding
  • need support with decision making
  • want to improve communication
  • benefit from talking through their work

I serve organizations and businesses who

  • want to align actions with values
  • want to improve and change work culture
  • need support facilitating change and transition
  • need support mapping out visions and strategic plans
  • want to develop and grow new teams and programs
  • want to clarify and balance roles and responsibilities
  • want to build authentic and accountable relationships

We’ll meet via Zoom for a free 30 minute session. You’ll share a little about where you are and where you want to be. I’ll answer all your questions. Upon mutual agreement, we’ll create a schedule, timeline, and rate. I offer a sliding scale of $75, $100, $125, or $150 per 50 minute session. Schedule your free consultation today or email [email protected].

Testimonials
Reviews & Reflections
“Susan is highly skilled in helping professionals transform their visions into realities through intentional and strategic planning. She has a wealth of experience in both people and project management that deeply influence her approach and theory of practice. The diversity of her experiences are part of what makes her such an excellent coach. As a big picture person, I struggle at times with the detailed steps needed to actualize large, multi-year projects. Susan provided invaluable insight, expertise and structure to keep us on track during a vital time in our organization's growth. She is not only incredibly intelligent but very adept at facilitating complex project ideas and relationships. I would highly recommend Susan to anyone in any sector!”
Alina SAnti-Racism Consultant and Director
“I wanted to start a business, but lacked the self confidence to do so. I found the whole idea overwhelming. Susan was so encouraging! She helped me organize my ideas, drafted a "to do" list with me, and held me accountable for the tasks I said I was going to complete. When I tried to do too much, she would encourage me to keep my mental and emotional health in mind and slow down. I can safely say I wouldn't have gotten to this point if it wasn't for Susan. She truly cares for the people around her and wants to help those people reach their goals. She will listen to what you want, aid you in creating steps to get there, and encourage you along the way.”
Kari SMusic Entrepreneur
“Susan was a colleague of mine in the Seattle Center network and when I was having a difficult time at work, I remembered that she had started coaching. I contacted her and was easily able to find an appointment that I could afford. My impression of her approach to coaching is that she leads with empathy but she also asked the tough questions and challenged me to look inward and think about what I really wanted and needed from my job. Honestly, my work with Susan was better than therapy; it was like therapy for workers. I wholeheartedly recommend trying a session with her.”
Amanda PDigital Marketing
“Susan provided the clear guidance I needed to gracefully navigate a very challenging work situation. She helped me understand the toxic workplace dynamics that I was struggling with, and quickly identified a path forward that aligned with my strengths and weaknesses, and my values. With her support I was able to communicate clear boundaries in a respectful manner and this resolved the immediate situation and increased the transparency in my working environment going forward.”
Rebecca MPhD Global Health Research
“Susan has closely mentored and coached me on my journey to become a musician, author, and educator. She consistently offered encouragement and support to get me to my next career milestone. At times when I felt stressed out and unworthy of my passion, Susan met with me and gave me the energy to keep moving forward. I would strongly suggest her guidance to any person, at any stage of their career. Her genuine heart, contagious smile, and enthusiasm will lead you to success.”
Arami WMusician and Author
“The biggest personal change in my life is that I no longer let fear get in my way. She asked the important questions that helped me discover the answers I wasn’t open to seeing. This shift has led to a clear vision of my next chapter – both professionally and personally. Susan is completely genuine and honest, a skilled listener, and brings heart and passion to her work. It means the world knowing she is in my corner.”
Sarah RArtist and Designer
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International Coaching Federation Member

ICF Member

International Coaching Federation

I’m based in Seattle, WA, the ancestral land of the Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Duwamish Tribe. I offer my gratitude and solidarity to Indigenous communities past and present.