The Soulful Ascent is where transformational coaching, spiritual wisdom, and storytelling converge. It is a space that guides values-driven leaders through the tensions of purpose, faith, and the cost of becoming.
This is a place of pause and depth for those who want to lead from soul, who are becoming intentional about stewarding their values-driven purpose, and who are walking the long road of becoming with integrity.
Here, we name the shifts.
We wrestle with the outgrown parts of ourselves.
We climb in community, with hope and sacred reverence for what we are called to steward.
Ascent here does not mean dominance or relentless productivity. It is not about curated striving or performance dressed up as leadership. And yet, we acknowledge that hustle, perfectionism, and the pursuit of productivity often have their seasons. They may have helped us survive and even served us for a time.
But, they cannot carry us the whole way.
The Soulful Ascent is about the quiet and sacred work of alignment. It is a path of growing in character, clarity, and contribution, so we can lead from the truest parts of who we are becoming.
At the heart of this work is areté—a concept drawn from ancient Greek thought and Christian tradition. It speaks of purposeful excellence: the integration of virtue, courage, and calling in the way we live and lead.
The ascent to areté is not rooted in upward mobility. It begins with inward maturity.
It is a path of formation, not perfection. Of becoming more fully who we are called to be, not for applause, but for what ultimately matters.
This movement echoes the rhythm I use in my coaching:
Rooting in your core values
Releasing what no longer fits
Resting in what is real
Reimagining what’s possible
Realigning with your deepest contribution
This blog is where I make sense of what I am learning—through client work, spiritual discernment, and the everyday tensions of life and leadership. It is shaped by my faith and core convictions, and grounded in what I am living, not just what I am teaching.
You’ll find:
Reflections from the coaching room and the rhythms of home life, shared with care and permission
Insights drawn from scripture, theology, and the spiritual traditions that anchor me
Threads of wisdom from psychology, philosophy, culture, and creativity
Invitations into rest, clarity, and meaningful change—especially in seasons of transition or reimagining
If something resonates, hold it. If not, take what you need and leave the rest.
The Soulful Ascent is not a one-way offering. It is an invitation to climb in good company.
I’d love to hear from you.
What season are you in?
What are you climbing toward?
What wisdom are you gathering along the way?
You are welcome to share your reflections, add a comment, or simply read quietly and carry what speaks to you.
If you’re looking for long-form reflections and themed series to support your leadership and life journey, I invite you to subscribe to The Soulful Ascent on Substack . There, you’ll receive thoughtful essays, practical prompts, and a space for meaningful conversation as we continue to climb.
Let’s grow in presence, not performance.
In courage, not comparison.
In contribution, not perfection.
Welcome!
We often imagine wonder as soft: sunlight on water, a quiet moment of insight, a peaceful breath after chaos. And sometimes it is. But more often, wonder arrives like a rupture. It terrifies and transfigures; it interrupts; it invites.
It comes when we reach the edge of our coping strategies.
When beauty stops us mid-scroll.
When the ordinary becomes holy.
That’s where Amelia was when she entered coaching.
Katrina entered our coaching conversation during a quiet but significant threshold in her life. She had recently completed a new professional qualification, yet found herself in a role that no longer reflected her skills, values, or aspirations. Her spirit was weary. But beneath the weariness, there was a whisper of longing: a desire to reclaim her creativity, voice, and agency. She wasn’t seeking a complete reinvention. Instead, she was yearning for a reconnection to her values, her courage, and the boundless possibilities within her.
When the path feels uncertain and the weight of survival threatens to eclipse your sense of purpose, soulful leadership calls for something deeper.
When I began my coaching journey with Alberta, I had no idea how profoundly it would impact my life. What started as a desire to align my work with my values turned into an incredible journey of self-discovery, entrepreneurial mastery, and personal transformation. Each segment of the coaching program built on the previous one, guiding me to unearth truths about myself, redefine rest, and craft a purposeful vision for my future.
In 2013, I faced a crossroads—career pressures, personal upheaval, and the weight of striving for balance. It led me to make bold, intentional changes, redefining success not as relentless achievement but as alignment with my core values. Returning to the UK became a season of rebuilding, leading to personal, professional, and spiritual growth. Today, I help others navigate their own transitions, uncovering purpose in life’s unexpected turns. If you’re facing uncertainty, what if this moment is guiding you toward something greater? Let’s explore the next chapter of your journey together.
As January fades and routines settle in, are you still aligned with your intentions for 2025? Growth doesn’t always require drastic change—sometimes, it’s about refining where you are. Whether you’re facing career transitions, leadership shifts, or personal realignment, clarity comes through reflection and small, purposeful steps. This blog explores when it’s time for change, how to recognise misalignment, and ten practical ways to navigate transitions with courage. Don’t settle—this year holds new opportunities for alignment, impact, and purposeful growth. What will 2025 look like for you?
Arete (ah-ruh-tay) is more than a concept—it’s a way of life. Rooted in ancient Greek philosophy and echoed in biblical wisdom, Arete calls us to align our values, actions, and purpose in the pursuit of excellence. It’s not about perfection or external success but about flourishing—becoming the best version of ourselves to serve something greater. At ArêteQuest, this principle shapes how we coach and guide leaders, helping them cultivate virtue, courage, and impact. True leadership is not just about achievement but about embodying excellence in action. How will you step into your own Arete?
A year ago, I was a finalist for a senior CSR role I deeply wanted—until I wasn’t. The unexpected redirection left me questioning my path, but in hindsight, it was the nudge I needed. Encouraged by those who saw my potential, I explored coaching and discovered a vocation that seamlessly integrates my values, strengths, and purpose. Now, I help leaders align their work with what truly matters. If you’re facing an unexpected turn, could it be leading you towards something greater?