I found Ed's Brown Bear Coaching at a perfect time in life – and I’m so glad I did. I had been thinking about utilizing some type of personal, self-growth, self-exploration “coaching” service for years – but had been reluctant & felt resistant. I wasn’t sure what I needed help on, exactly — but knew I could use it, if I found the right person to help me. I especially needed someone to dispel all the common clichés & misconceptions of working with a “life coach.” Ed was that guy for me!
As a gay man, I decided it was important for me to work with another gay man – or, at least someone who works predominately with other gay men. I was wise about making that decision. I learned so much about the shared experiences of gay men, and the commonalities we all share growing up as closeted queer kids – which spills significantly into our adult lives. It’s so common, it goes unnoticed. The breakthroughs I had with Ed were massive!
I was feeling a bit lost – and highly stressed with big dreams, the day-to-day hustle, the immense pressures I put upon myself, and general “existing” in this world. Add in the mix of other hardships that had gone entirely undetected my whole life, I was in need of help. I am so glad I found Ed, who helped me uncover it all.
I thought I knew what my problems were. And, it’s true what they say. The answer truly was there, in front of me, all along. But, I never had pointed conversations with myself (or with a coach like Ed) to help me draw attention to the problems that were right in front of me.
I worked with Ed through about nine sessions, and the growth I’ve gained is monumental! I feel refreshed, confident, and clear. And, most importantly, I feel a tremendous weight off my shoulders. It is a “free” feeling I had not felt in adulthood.
Don’t get me wrong, though. Tough work takes, well, tough work. Some of the conversations I had with Ed were difficult for me – because I had to face some uncomfortable things head-on, that felt easier to avoid (but were causing me immense stress, which can be a form of pain!). I think having honest, safe discussions with Ed on a wide array of things was eye-opening, growth-inducing and life-changing for me. Ed is very kind & easy to talk to.
I am glad I made the investment in myself with Ed. If you’re on the fence & thinking about it – give it a shot! Even the first intro session was rad & beneficial (and totally free, without any expectations or pressure *whatsoever*). And, if you’re worried about him being “online” all the way in Sydney, don’t be. I really liked his perspective, and we had no problems getting our schedules to sync between Southern California, USA and Sydney, Australia. Ed was always available when I needed him, and was a simple WhatsApp, Instagram message or email away in between our sessions. And, it was kind of cool to talk to him in the privacy of my own home.
Ed, thanks for sharing your wisdom, sparkle and peace with us – especially us gay men!
Brown Bear Coaching is fabulous - and you'll love Ed!