Coach Highlight – Yumi Wilson

CM: When did you complete the Transformative Coaching Essentials program and what are some of the most valuable things you got out of it?

YW: I’m part of the 24-25 cohort and was certified in March 2026. The most valuable decision I made was to buy a car so I could drive to Sacramento, which proved priceless when my late sister got sick, as I could be by her side most days. Also, learning to help others turned out to be a way of helping myself, as I challenged and continue to challenge old beliefs that kept me small or fearful about taking big steps in life.

CM: Do you consider yourself a life coach? If no, how would you describe who you are professionally?

YW: I don’t really see myself as a life coach, but I do see myself as a coach, and I use what I’ve learned to help the clients I work with, many of whom are journalists figuring out their next career move. I also apply my new skills in the classroom at SF State. The program encouraged me to learn more about NLP (neuro-linguistic programming), so I’m currently taking a course to deepen my understanding of those techniques.

CM: What would you say to somebody who told you they were thinking about becoming a life coach?

YW: I would put on my coaching hat and ask them, “What would you gain by becoming a coach? What would you lose? How would it look, feel, and sound when you become a coach?” I’d also ask them why now. I would ask many questions to help them decide whether becoming a life coach, or any coach, aligns with their values and purpose.

CM: What is one misperception you believe people have about coaches (whether designated “life coach” or something else)?

YW: Many people might think life coaches are just touchy-feely, but that’s not true. They are important professionals who often hold clients accountable by asking about their next steps and encouraging follow-up. Accountability is a key aspect of coaching.

CM: What is your coaching specialty?

YW: I typically coach journalists or communicators who are thinking about leveling up or want to pivot their careers. But I’m very open to helping others. In fact, some of my best clients have been developers and engineers!

CM: Are you a full-time coach?

YW: Nope. I’m a full-time faculty member at SF State. I also speak and train extensively on how AI is impacting communications and journalism. Coaching has become something I do for people who reach out to me.

CM: What do you do other than coaching?

YW: See above.

CM: Do you have a website dedicated to your coaching business?

YW: Yes, I do have a website: https://www.yumiwilsoncoaching.com/

CM: Do you have social media accounts that you use primarily for your coaching business?

YW: I occasionally share my coaching insights on Instagram (yumiwilsonmedia) and have a dedicated coaching column on Substack. Currently, however, 2026 has shifted my focus toward speaking about AI at conferences and researching two books I’m developing this year. I’m pleased to announce I’ve been granted a sabbatical for fall 2026, during which I plan to work on these books and may take on a few coaching clients.