Exploring Life & Business with Rená Koesler, PhD of Summitcoachinternational

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rená Koesler, PhD.

Hi Dr. Koesler, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In my former career, I was a Professor of Leisure Studies and Outdoor/Environmental education.

A great profession where I had a purpose in educating and inspiring students to learn and grow in the academic setting and beyond. I lead students on several outdoor adventures around the world so they continue questioning and exploring who they are through new/challenging experiences. Africa, Nepal, and Patagonia were exceptional locations for climbing mountains and appreciating the rich culture in those locations.

Having an adventurous spirit myself, I didn’t stop there. I continued providing opportunities for people to discover their purpose and step forward in their growth mindset. As a speaker and business coach, I “get” to be a spark for those who are stuck, need a boost, want to develop their leadership, and gain a new enthusiasm for their life.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Exploring and becoming an entrepreneur has been a good challenge. Coming from an academic setting where websites are created, marketing is done by others, salary is in place, and your audience is guaranteed daily, I had to learn a new language and structure from the very beginning.

I learned MUCH more about technology, marketing, and the value of networking. It was challenging to tell people (e.g., social media) who I was, what I do, and how I can be of value to them. As an entrepreneur, this is necessary but it took some time to adjust to promoting myself. Once I changed my perspective from promoting myself to bringing value to others, my output was more authentic and enjoyable.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
As a Business Coach and Speaker, I guide, influence, and inspire people to be intentional in creating the life and business they desire. I coach people one-on-one and in small groups. The following are a few of the creative ways I serve people in small groups:

1. Mastermind on the Mountain program: I take small groups of entrepreneurs on a hiking trail to discuss a topic relevant to business and life (e.g., boundaries, communication, values, legacy, finding your voice, etc.). The outdoor setting provides the freedom and comfort for people to connect and share with other group members safely and enjoyably.

2. Virtual Masterminds: I provide leaders and entrepreneurs an opportunity to discuss topics that are most critical for them at the time. Not only do I provide some coaching, but the group members also share their insights and perspectives on the topic.

3. Masterclasses: I’ve offered various masterclasses from the books I have authored that lay the foundation for discussing and navigating topics on leadership, reaching your potential, and finding one’s purpose in life.

Climbing mountains for over 40 years is what sets me apart from other coaches and speakers. I use the challenges, the doubts, the struggles, the “giving up” mentality, overcoming storms, and the successes of climbing mountains as a metaphor for what every person encounters in life. I’ve learned most about leadership from the four decades of leading people on adventure expeditions.

There were few women climbing mountains in the 1970’s and even fewer female outdoor/wilderness leaders. Against the odds, I was passionate about leading others on climbs and in the wild outdoors, rarely doubting my intentions of developing other leaders along the way. My life’s purpose was found in climbing mountains. I continue seeking inspiration to inspire others to reach their purpose and potential.

We all have different ways of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
My idea of success has changed over time. With each life stage, I encounter a new definition of success.

A successful outdoor adventure: Ensuring everyone returns unharmed
A successful entrepreneur: Not giving in or giving up, no matter how tough the road appears.
A successful leader: Bringing value to others and putting them before you, the leader
A successful human being: A kind person with good character. Being the best authentic version of self.
A successful life: Living a life with meaning, purpose, a spirit of adventure, and love.

Overall, “success” has been exchanged with “significance” and how I help others lead with significance in business and their life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.renakoesler.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renakoesler/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/koesler
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ren%C3%A1-koesler-ph-d-22ab09a/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@renakoesler5787/