Penny Smith is one of the coaches that we found this month and we did a little interview with her. She impressed us with her professionalism and passion.

Her journey began with a profound realization: as a neurodivergent person, she needed a coach who truly understood her perspective. This insight not only transformed her life but inspired her to become the coach she once needed. Today, she specializes in Neurodivergent Workplace Coaching, offering invaluable guidance to those navigating the challenges of professional environments designed for neurotypical minds.

Her coaching style is rooted in active listening and she has a non judgmental approach. She creates a safe space for clients to embrace their true selves and develop greater self awareness. Using an adapted version of the GROW Technique, tailored specifically for neurodivergents, she empowers clients to thrive in personal and professional realms.

Her story is a testament to resilience, having overcome the lasting impact of an abusive relationship to inspire others to unlock their potential and succeed on their own terms. Here is what she said…

Meet Life Coach Penny Smith:

Name: Penny Smith

Pillar: The Mind

Who is this coach for: Neurodivergent people who want a guide that truly understands them and can help them to reach their goals.

How they can help: By using various tools and techniques like the GROW Technique as an example, but adjusted for neurodivergents.

First of all, how are you and your family doing after these Pandemic times?

We are doing okay.

We came closer during the Pandemic and that has stayed.

How did the coronavirus pandemic affect your clients? Did it affect you at all?

I have only practiced since the Pandemic.

What are the biggest lessons that you learned in this pandemic?

That I think differently to the PNT world and that is okay!

The Origin:

Tell us about you, your career, how you started with your coaching career?

I started coaching when I realised that (as a Neurodivergent) I know I need a Neurodivergent Coach… and that realization opened my eyes.

I knew that other neurodivergents would benefit and welcome having a coach who thought and experienced the world as they do.

What was your biggest obstacle that you had to overcome in your life that made you who you are today?

Surviving a very abusive relationship.

The Coaching Style:

How do you innovate with coaching your clients?

I actively listen to them.

I don’t presume or judge or try to fix them.

I allow them the space to express themselves as they truly are and from that help them be more self aware.

What’s unique about your coaching approach?

That I offer Neurodivergent Workplace Coaching.

What benefits do your clients get after working with you?

Someone who understands the way that they think and understands the real complexities of navigating a PNT workplace as a neurodivergent.

Do you use any specific tools to be efficient with your clients?

I use the GROW Technique mostly but adapted for us neurodivergents.

The Impact:

If you had a super megaphone that, when you speak into, the whole world will hear your message, what would you say?

Be kind to each other, truly kind and listen to each other, truly listen.

What is the greatest lesson you have learned in your life?

To acticely listen to people.

Your final thoughts?

Nothing to add, thank you for asking.

Where Can You Find Penny Smith?

If you liked this interview and if you would love to have someone who understands you neurodivergence and is able to guide you so you can live your best life, go to teamtalkuk.com and see how Coach Penny can help you.

If you’d like to peak a glimpse of her coaching, follow her Instagram account.

And if you’d like to connect more personally with her, you can do that through LinkedIn or by sending her a direct message on her Email penny@teamtalkuk.com. It was an honor having this interview with her.