Coach to Coach: A conversation with Rachel Newton

What if growing as a coach isn't about adding another certification—but giving yourself time to integrate what you already know?

In our latest ICF Washington State Member Spotlight, I sat down with Rachel Newton, ACC, to talk about coach development, community, giving back, and staying human as AI becomes part of our profession.

Rachel also demonstrates what contributing to our coaching community can look like in practice. She co-hosts ICF Washington’s monthly BIPOC Coaches Connect, helping create a space for coaches to build relationships, learn from one another, and experience community.

A few highlights from our conversation:

✨ Start with yourself. Our development as coaches begins with doing our own work.

✨ Integrate before adding more. A self-described “learning addict,” Rachel reflected on resisting the next “shiny new certification” long enough to put learning into practice.

✨ “Follow the fun and the joy.” Rachel encourages coaches looking to contribute to start with the communities and experiences they genuinely enjoy.

✨ Stay human in an AI-enabled world. AI can support coaching, but our lived experiences bring something technology can't replicate.

One of Rachel's reminders for coaches:

“Your life experience is golden. That’s wisdom. You can draw on that.”

And when asked, “Coaching is powerful because…”

“It helps us connect back to who we truly and really are.”

If you're thinking about your own growth, finding community, or the future of coaching, take a few minutes to get to know Rachel. 

Watch here.