Carolyn McDonald, an executive coach based in London and originally from Scotland, has dedicated her life to creating meaningful change through leadership, community, and compassion. From her early activism in youth politics to leading a therapeutic community for people struggling with addiction, Carolyn’s journey reflects resilience, empathy, and a deep commitment to amplifying voices that often go unheard. Today, she continues her mission by coaching leaders, supporting organizations in diversity and inclusion, and working globally with initiatives that empower women.
Q: Carolyn, what inspired you to become an executive coach?
I grew up in Scotland in the 1980s, a time of big cultural and industrial change. I studied politics and economic history because I was always curious about how societies evolve and how communities adapt. That curiosity stayed with me. My early work involved activism and community projects, which naturally transitioned into coaching. I’m drawn to helping people navigate change, both personally and within organizations.
Q: Before coaching, you led impactful work in communities. Could you share a bit about that?
Yes, before becoming a coach, I ran a therapeutic community for people struggling with addiction and later a charity for over 15 years. That work taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, leadership, and compassion. Compared to those challenges, coaching feels like a different pace, but the skills I gained from that experience shape how I support individuals and teams today.
Q: Do you work independently, or do you have a team?
I run my coaching practice individually, but I collaborate with many organizations. For instance, I work with a coaching group focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I also sit on the board of a large psychotherapy practice. Balancing these roles can be challenging, but I truly enjoy the variety—it keeps my work dynamic and meaningful.
Q: What are some achievements you’re most proud of?
Coming from a working-class Scottish background and being the first in my family to attend university was a significant milestone. Running a therapeutic community for people with addiction and contributing research on the impact of addiction on families and communities are things I value deeply. More recently, I’ve been proud of my work with the Footage Foundation, which amplifies the voices of marginalized women affected by gender-based violence worldwide. Helping women realize they are not alone—and that sharing stories can create change—is something I hold close to my heart.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
We’ve made progress, but there’s still a long way to go. Women are stronger when we work together, support each other, and create spaces where honesty is welcomed. Too often, women are expected to work, care for family, and smile through the challenges. Leadership also means giving each other permission to say, “I’m tired, I need help,” or “That wasn’t okay.” Supporting each other authentically is where real change begins.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs?
I believe strongly that success isn’t an individual achievement—it’s a collective one. Every step I’ve taken has been supported by the kindness and generosity of others. My advice is to remain kind, generous, and thoughtful. Build communities, not just careers. Together, we can achieve more than we ever could alone.
Q: What does success mean to you, personally and professionally?
Professionally, success is doing work that brings me joy, challenges me to keep learning, and allows me to collaborate with others. Right now, I’m writing a book, which is stretching me in new ways. Personally, success is about love and relationships. My daughter is graduating from university in Scotland soon, and being able to take time off to celebrate her achievement—that, to me, is a beautiful success.
“Everything I’ve achieved has been made possible by the generosity and kindness of others. I believe success comes from working together, learning together, and lifting each other up.” – Carolyn McDonald
✨ Connect with Carolyn McDonald:
Carolyn McDonald PCC | LinkedIn
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