​I like to think my interest in understanding people began at the age of 6.  In 1980, my family moved to Warsaw, Poland as my father accepted a teaching position at the University of Warsaw.  I was only 6, but old enough to sense the significance of the large red suitcase that sat packed in our closet; we were living in a foreign country, on the brink of war, and needed to be ready to leave at a moment's notice.  

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Throughout my education, I remained fascinated by people.  Trained as a behavioral psychologist with a M.Ed., I taught children with special needs, primarily those who were neurodivergent.  I worked in both public and private sectors, and started a small tutoring business catered to the unique needs of students searching for extra support.

While I loved teaching, my curiosity about the business world resulted in a transition out of the classroom.  I became a senior leader for a large educational and travel company, ultimately working both in the US and Europe.  I excelled in leading and coaching teams, and my focus on individual growth and team dynamics always ensured a positive impact on the bottom line. Over the years, my curiosity continued to grow, and I began specializing in external workshops, panel discussions, and investing more deeply in my coaching practice and speaking opportunities.

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At the end of 2022, my focus shifted again.  After spending seven years living in Europe, I returned to my home-state of Ohio to help care for my father.  It was a significant personal change, but it also created an opportunity—the time and clarity needed to start my own business, Stella Nera Coaching.  

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Since then, I've completed a two-year systems coaching program, further advancing my expertise and training.  I've worked with leaders and teams across various industries, including pharmaceutical sales, local government, legal teams, and higher education, to name a few.