For Rich Brunner, receiving the Coaching Excellence Award from The Entrepreneur’s Source (TES) was more than just an honor—it reflected a journey that led him to a meaningful and transformative career. His path to becoming a coach was one of self-discovery, a desire for independence, and a commitment to helping others navigate their own career transitions.
Rich spent over 30 years in corporate leadership, working with global firms like Accenture, PWC, and Oracle. He thrived in his career, solving problems on a large scale, implementing technology solutions, and guiding teams through complex challenges. But despite his success, something was missing.
“I had a great career, but I reached a point where I wanted something different,” Rich reflects. “I wanted to take control of my future and help others do the same.”
The realization led him to The Entrepreneurs’ Source, where he found his calling in career ownership coaching. In this role, he helps individuals explore business ownership as an alternative to traditional employment, guiding them through the process of self-discovery and decision-making.
Finding Purpose Through Coaching
One of the most rewarding aspects of Rich’s work is witnessing the transformation of his client. He recalls his earliest coaching experience – a client who felt trapped in their job, uncertain about what else was possible. Through their work together, his client found the confidence to step into business ownership, ultimately gaining both financial stability and the ability to spend more time with family.
“It was incredible to watch that change unfold,” Rich says, “He went from feeling stuck to realizing he had options and that he was capable of making a bold move.”
Rich believes the most effective coaches aren’t those who provide all the answers, but those who ask the right questions. “People often assume coaching is about telling someone what to do,” he explains. “But real coaching is about listening, helping people uncover what’s best for them, and creating a space where they feel safe exploring new possibilities.”
A Continuous Learning Process
While Rich’s corporate experience provided a strong foundation, coaching required a shift in mindset. Instead of focusing on delivering solutions, he had to step back and let clients take ownership of their decisions.
“The training and support of TES has been invaluable,” he says. “There’s a real emphasis on learning from each other, sharing insights, and developing your own style as a coach.”
The sense of community, combined with a commitment to ongoing growth, has made a significant impact on his approach. “Every client brings a unique story, a unique challenge,” he says. “The more I listen, the more I learn.”
A New Way of Working and Living
Beyond the professional fulfillment coaching provides, it has also given Rich something he long sought in his corporate career – flexibility and balance. He now has control over his schedule, the ability to travel, and the satisfaction of knowing his work has a direct and positive impact on others.
“I never expected to find a career that aligned so perfectly with what I wanted in life,” he says.
“Coaching has given me the freedom to work in a way that feels truly meaningful.”
Advice for New Coaches
For those considering becoming a coach with TES, Rich offers simple but valuable advice: embrace continuous learning and stay open to new experiences. “Coaching is about curiosity,” he says. “You don’t have to have all the answers, you just need to ask the right questions and create a space where clients feel safe exploring their options.”
He also stresses the importance of patience and persistence. “Success doesn’t happen overnight, but if you stay committed to the process and keep learning, you’ll find this work incredibly rewarding.”
Winning the Coaching Excellence Award is a testament to Rich’s dedication, but for him, the real reward is in the journey itself – the clients he has helped, the lessons he has learned, and the opportunities still ahead.
“There’s always more to discover,” he says. “And that’s what keeps me inspired every day.”
If you are inspired to discover what more is out there for you, click here and learn more about what TES can do for you.
