Meet Martina Felderman

Today we’d like to introduce you to Martina Felderman.

Martina, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’m originally from Austria and studied molecular biology at the University of Salzburg. After receiving my Ph.D. I came to Southern California to pursue my research at the Sanford Burnham Insitute in San Diego. My initial plan was to move back to Austria after finishing my postdoctoral studies in San Diego. Well, my plans changed quite a bit. I met my now husband through rock climbing, had an exciting job in biotech and started building my life in the US.

I spent nearly 15 years as a molecular biologist in the scientific industry and acted as researcher, mentor and lastly Chief Operating Officer at a biotech company before starting my own coaching business.

IT ALL STARTED WHEN…

I realized that my research would not make an immediate impact on someone’s health and life. I became a scientist because I wanted to help people and make a difference. I was successful, got the jobs I wanted, made good money, but still was not satisfied. I kept asking myself, is this it? Is this all I can do? Granted, the development of drugs takes a long time. I thought, maybe I just need to be more patient and stick with it. So I stuck with it, for a long time – and I felt the same. One day it dawned on me, I had to make a change and do something different. But what could that be? After all these years in grad school, a great salary and a stable job? Should I leave all this behind and change careers? My inner critic was loud and persistent.

I played with the idea of becoming a coach. I have always enjoyed being a mentor and have successfully helped friends to find their dream job. The professional development courses that I had taken were the most satisfying moments in my career. I did extensive research on coach training programs but then abandoned the idea as being irresponsible and foolish. I was going in circles until I decided to work with a coach. It was eye-opening. I finally connected to my real purpose and found the courage to become a coach and start my own business.

It has been an incredible journey. What amazes me the most is how much energy I have left at the end of the day, and how happy I am. I am more patient and present with my family. I have the energy to play with my kids instead of just collapsing in front of the TV in the evening. This is not because I am more organized or do less work. Organization, time management, and prioritization have always been my strong suit. Now, however, I fill my time with work that aligns with what I truly want to accomplish in my life. And this makes all the difference!

I have experienced what it means to take the next step, make a bold move and live the life that I have always dreamed of.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. We had a lot of transitions within the same year. My family and I moved from California to Colorado, I started my business and we had our second child. It was definitely a roller coaster and I sometimes questioned if I made the right decision to start my business during such a turbulent time. The excitement never faded though and I had great support from friends and other coaches. Ultimately, it all worked out and I created the dream that I had always envisioned for my family and myself.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Martina Felderman Coaching – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
I am a molecular biologist turned Executive and Career Coach. I specialize in two areas: Leadership Development and Career Coaching. For leadership development, I primarily work with managers and executives in the science and tech industry to become better leaders while also creating a healthier work-life balance. For Career Coaching, I help people that are at a career crossroads and seek guidance and a strategy to figure out what’s next. Often, these clients are mid-career and are looking for a more fulfilling and rewarding role. My clients are driven, highly-motivated and want to make an impact.

I believe what sets me apart is my unique background in the sciences and knowing what it takes to build a successful career. I understand how stress, lack of exercise and poor nutrition affect performance and well-being. I am a passionate rock climber and love the outdoors. I integrate scientifically proven techniques with holistic approaches to support my clients in establishing a career and balance that aligns with their life goals.

I’m most proud of being able to make a true and lasting impact on my client’s lives. I’m very grateful to have the opportunity to work with amazing individuals and see them grow and create a life and career that’s more aligned with their passion and values.

Contact Info:
• Website: www.martinafelderman.com
• Email: coaching@martinafelderman.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildventurecoaching.co/
• Other: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mfelderman/

Image Credit:
General Bob Photography

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