In this episode of the Successful Nurse Coach Podcast, I’m talking directly to nursing students and aspiring nurse coaches—especially those of you in the middle of certification.

It’s such a tender (and confusing) chapter. You're excited, but also wondering, “Am I ready?” or “What should I focus on next?”

My answer: Focus on coaching first.

Not branding. Not a website. Not trying to turn yourself into a marketing expert overnight.

This episode is a pep talk and a reality check. I share what I’ve seen work—time and time again—for our most successful grads. I tell real stories of what happens when you slow down, practice your coaching, and build real confidence before rushing into business logistics.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure of what your next step should be, I made this one for you.

Tune in and let’s get grounded in what actually matters during this season.

Shelby 🤍

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Mentioned in this episode:

NLCA Cohort 4

https://www.nurselifecoachacademy.com/

In this episode, Shelby and Laura get real about one of the most awkward questions for new nurse coaches: “What do you do?” They unpack why this question can trigger so much internal resistance, how to move through early identity wobble, and what makes a response truly land. Through honest stories, practical tips, and encouragement, they help you feel more grounded and confident in your unique nurse coaching journey.

Key Takeaways:

• You’re not alone—it’s easier with a partner in the journey.
• The early days of being a nurse coach can feel confusing and vulnerable.
• Ditch the credentials; lead with who you help and how.
• Make your answer compelling enough to invite curiosity.
• Practice saying it out loud until it feels natural.
• Networking isn’t about impressing—it’s about connecting.
• Awkward convos are part of the process. Embrace the cringe.
• Stay open to “divine appointments”—you never know who’s listening.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and the Value of Collaboration

02:01 – Navigating the Challenges of Being a New Nurse Coach

07:11 – Crafting Your Response: What Not to Do

13:34 – How to Answer 'What Do You Do?' with Clarity and Curiosity

19:02 – Building Confidence in Your Coaching Identity

21:20 – Facing the Discomfort of Networking

24:49 – Why Volume of Conversations Matters

26:12 – Practice Makes Peaceful

30:23 – Normalizing the Cringe

32:28 – Divine Appointments and Meaningful Conversations

36:06 – Taking the Focus Off Yourself

In this episode, Shelby dives deep into one of the most common struggles new nurse coaches face: the fixer reflex. As nurses, we're trained to assess, intervene, and help—but in coaching, that instinct to rescue can actually hinder transformation.

Shelby explores:

• Why fixing your clients does more harm than good
• How giving advice too soon steals their breakthrough
• The subtle (and selfish) ways fixing helps you feel better, not them
• 3 practical tools to coach powerfully without solving their problems

With stories, real-life examples, and Shelby’s signature blend of truth and heart, this episode is a must-listen for any nurse coach learning to hold space in a deeper, more empowering way.

Transformation happens in the tension—not in your tidy solutions.

Tune in and learn how to stop rescuing and start truly coaching.