Catherine Twomey

1. Friendship in Coaching

Catherine describes the friendship with Danny as something that evolved over time. Initially, it was a “shadow friendship” – more professional than personal – but as trust deepened, it became something real.

“You helped me with both work and personal experiences. Now I look at you as a true friend.”

What stood out to her was Danny’s ability to be direct to the point – calling things as they were, even when it was hard to hear.

“Sometimes you were brutally honest. And I think true friends tell you what you really are about because sometimes you cannot see yourself as others see you.”

This honesty helped her face aspects of her leadership and personal interactions that needed change.

2. Leadership and Self-Reflection

Catherine was highly driven, always hitting financial targets, but admits that it came at a cost.

“I sacrificed a lot personally to make that happen. I worked insane hours, so my family suffered.”

Through coaching, she learned that leadership wasn’t just about delivering results but also about managing people in a way that brought them along on the journey.

“When I tempered my approach to people management, it helped not just me but my staff as well.”

This shift didn’t just make her a better leader – it also created a work environment where friendships flourished, and people enjoyed being part of the mission.

3. Learning to Put Herself First

One of the biggest shifts in Catherine’s journey was recognising that she had spent years putting work and others before herself.

“For the first time in my life, I put myself first, which I never used to do.”

This was a difficult change, but it ultimately felt empowering. She no longer felt “owned” by corporations and realised she had more control over her own choices than she had previously believed.

“I feel more in control of my own life… if I need help or support, I have the courage, I guess, or the willingness to accept help.”

4. The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership

A major turning point in her journey was the leadership retreats, particularly an exercise where team members shared their personal life maps.

“I think when you work with people, you need to understand what they’re all about.”

She recalls how deeply moving and emotional these moments were – the team saw each other not just as colleagues, but as humans.

“Everybody was in tears… and I think when you know that about people, you can relate to them better, work with them better.”

This experience reinforced for Catherine that strong leadership isn’t about being invulnerable – it’s about fostering genuine connection.

5. Transformation and Self-Acceptance

Catherine acknowledges that she has changed significantly since 2010. The relentless drive that once defined her has been tempered by self-awareness and balance.

“Compared to 2010, I definitely have a more happy, balanced life now.”

Danny pushed her to take credit for her transformation:

Danny: “How much credit are you prepared to take for what you’ve achieved?”