Why Coaching?
When I started really thinking about it, I’ve been coaching, mentoring, or teaching in a formal capacity since I was in high school. That’s almost 2 decades of formal experience. But if I really look back, coaching and mentoring is something I’ve worked into my everyday life since I was a little kid.
Now that might sound silly… like, “Katey, what does that have to do with your coaching program now”, but hear me out.
Growing up, I would create plays, performances, and acts that I would direct my friends in. I would coach them on where to stand, what to do, and how to put on the best show possible for our neighbors and parents. I always wanted them to feel like they did a good job! I wanted them to feel confident and excited about the things they were doing, all while having fun!
My little sister was my first “client”. She and I are a few years apart in age. It’s always just been the two of us. I loved nothing more than trying to teach her new tricks and helping her work through problems. I wanted to be a mentor and guide for her. I wanted to help her experience new things. As her older sister, my goal was to use everything I had learned to help her have an easier, happier, more successful path. I always wanted to be her biggest supporter and wanted to be there to coach her along the way.
My first actual coaching gig was working with the Little Miss Channahon Pageant. My official job was to choreograph and teach the dances and stage movements to a group of young girls all competing for the illustrious title of “little miss”. Note: If you’re never tried teaching elementary school children a choreographed dance… it’s what I would call… an experience. It takes all of the positive energy, enthusiasm, patience, and excitement you can possibly muster.
The gig quickly evolved into more than dance and movement though. I felt this deep urge to try to build up each and every contestant. I wanted them to feel their best and to be the most confident version of themselves as they walked on that stage. No matter if they won or not, I wanted each one of those little girls to walk away knowing they were incredible.
As a choreographer and pageant assistant, I also got the unique role of performing on stage to help kill time while the girls were preparing for the next portion of the contest. During that time, my teammate and I made sure to go all out!!! Silly dresses, and all! I wanted all of the young ladies competing to know that they should have fun!!
Singing the “Stepsisters Lament” at the Little Miss Channahon contest with Brianna Auffray.
That desire to help people feel their best has followed me into every part of my career. Not only as a music therapist, but also as a business owner and performer. I think one of my favorite parts of owning my business has been supervising my employees and interns. They are the heart of my company. I want my team to know they are cared for and supported and I want them to feel their best in what they do. They are all powerful, incredible young women! I love the time I get to spend with them in our weekly supervision meetings. Helping them problem solve and encouraging them to each step into their power is my joy.
When I am on stage, I want to show up as the most badass version of myself. I want to have the best time and share a piece of myself authentically with those around me. I want my energy to be palpable and to encourage everyone around me to enjoy themselves. The people I am singing to, performing to, performing with and for are incredible. Each one of them deserves to know and to feel that.
That feeling of wanting people to know they are incredible is truly the theme of my last 20+ years.
I want people to know their worth. Their value.
You deserve to live your happiest life.
You belong here.
<3 Katey
