Meet Mike
Based in Portland, Oregon, I’m a life coach who believes that the challenges we’ve faced can become the foundations we build from.
"My own journey has taken me through grief, reinvention, and resilience. I’ve faced rocky times — and I've learned that when we stop running from them, we can actually build something lasting.
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Now I help others do the same. With honesty, humor, and compassion, I work with clients who are ready to stop surviving and start living — fully, freely, and with purpose".
Why I do this work
Vision
To empower individuals to embrace and express their authenticity in every aspect of life—at home, at work, and beyond.
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Mission
I believe that contentment comes when you embrace who you really are—beyond the noise of outside expectations.
Through From Rocky to Rocking It Coaching, I walk with you as you uncover your authentic self, helping you create a life that aligns with your values, passions, and purpose. Together, we'll make space for more freedom, joy, and fulfillment.
My Journey
Where I Come From
Born in the industrial north of England, my parents were the first in their families to go to college and they devoted their lives to teaching. From them, I inherited core values of integrity, discipline, hard work, and a warped (!) sense of humor—qualities that have been the backbone of my life’s journey.
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​​What I've Faced
I have faced both personal and professional challenges with courage. As a member of the LGBTQI+ community, I lived through the trauma of the AIDS crisis. While doing undergrad work at Oxford University, I suffered the loss of my dad, a profound event that changed the course of my life and my understanding of who I am.
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I had a passion for progressive causes and current affairs, so I pursued a career in nonprofit and political fundraising, which began in London and brought me to Los Angeles. There, I rose through the ranks to become the Chief Operating Officer over the course of almost 30 years.
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Now 26 years sober, I have faced significant challenges including the end of my fundraising career during the COVID-19 pandemic, the unexpected loss of my husband of 22 years, and my mom’s advanced dementia. These experiences, while deeply challenging, have given me a deep understanding of resilience and personal growth.
Who I Help
I work with people who feel like there’s more to life — more clarity, more purpose, more ease — but aren’t sure how to get there.
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You might be successful on paper but stuck in your head. Maybe you’re great at helping others but struggle to speak your own needs out loud.
I help people like you slow down, get honest, and start building a life that really fits.
You're a Good Fit If...
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You’re insightful and curious — but often overthink things
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You care deeply about others but forget to take care of yourself
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You’re tired of pretending to be fine when you’re not
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You’ve outgrown parts of your life, but aren’t sure what’s next
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You want clarity, authenticity, and peace​​
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Not sure what coaching is....
Testimonials
What My Clients Say about From Rocky to Rocking It Coaching
Alex A
Mike helped me press pause on the chaos and actually chart a direction. It’s like he hands you the flashlight when you’re stuck in a dark tunnel.
Busy, B
As someone juggling work, family, and a million to-dos, I didn’t believe coaching could change much. Mike proved me wrong. He mixes honest reflection with actionable steps and a great sense of humor, so the work feels doable not daunting. Over a few months I learned to set boundaries, prioritize what truly matters, and rebuild my days so they reflect who I want to be. I’m calmer, clearer, and finally moving from ‘rocky’ to ‘rocking it.’
Casey, C
Mike has a way of making you feel seen without judgment. I thought I had to keep grinding through the stress, but with his coaching I’ve learned how to pause, reset, and rebuild my routines. What surprised me most is how quickly small shifts added up — now I’m more present with my family, more focused at work, and honestly, more me.