My name is Jay Judkins, and my life is my resume.
MY STORY
Backstory
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For much of my life I felt inferior. I was born with cerebral palsy that affects my right side, and when I was eight, my father left my mom and me. Throughout my youth and into adulthood I experienced anxiety, depression, and very low self-esteem. At sixteen, I was in a serious car accident that resulted in a broken hip, shoulder, and pelvis. Then, at thirty-five, I was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor that left me temporarily paralyzed, and I had to learn how to walk, write, do everything over again.​​​
​I’m sharing these details not to seek pity but to show that I truly understand hardship. In spite of the challenges, I have done everything from working in the furniture industry to grave digging to owning/co-owning multiple businesses. I'm even a licensed insurance agent, licensed real estate agent, and real estate investor.
If there's one theme that runs through my life, it's resilience. My goal is to use my story as living proof that, no matter what obstacles you face, you can accomplish what
you set your mind to.​​​
Why I Became a Professional Coach
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It has always been second nature for me to help people figure out what they want to do and then help them do it. The first business I started was an insurance agency. Clients would come in for various insurance related needs, but my desire to build relationships with them would often result in me advising them on all kinds of topics. I have the unique ability to see potential and help those people that want to explore and exploit that potential.
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Several years ago, I learned that there was a need for people who could help guide others through challenges to achieve their goals and fulfill their dreams. These guides were often referred to as "coaches." I had an epiphanous moment where I said to myself, “Hey, I’ve been doing this most of my adult life!”
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This realization gave me the clarity that I needed to pursue professional coaching full-time.
I have since undergone extensive training to become a Certified Personal and Executive Coach through the CaPP Institute, a John Maxwell Certified Team Member, a Certified DISC Consultant, and a Working Genius Certified Facilitator.
Where it all began
What Makes Me Different
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Every professional coach brings their own unique mix of personality, life experience, and training to the coaching partnership. This is one of the many reasons that both coach and client need to determine if they are the correct fit for each other to reach the desired outcome. You might have had a situation where you were dealing with a doctor or counselor who was very qualified, but you just didn’t mesh.
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My brand of client support is based on the belief that everyone can live fulfilled lives. Even in adversity and times of uncertainty, I encourage clients to assess the reality they face while still believing in the best possible outcome. This approach is not one of naivety or toxic positivity, but one of faith and perseverance that represents how I live my own life. Often effective coaching is asking the right questions in the right context. I have found that my ability to build trust and find commonalities allows me to ask good questions while also speaking into situations as clients find value in my perspective.
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​I don’t limit myself to the title of “coach.” I believe the richest coaching partnerships are dynamic, where trust exists, and thoughts and ideas can be explored and challenged. I want to be present and available to assist clients that choose to move beyond the challenges they face and live their best possible lives. My clients are free to bring whatever topics are important to them: home, work, family, relationships.
Traditional coaching allows the clients to determine the answer and outcome for themselves. While I provide this style of coaching, I also offer advising and mentoring in order to maintain a holistic approach and sensitivity to unique client needs. I want to come alongside you in whatever capacity you need to become who you are meant to be.
People are my passion and I intend to spend the remainder of my life inspiring, encouraging, and equipping both individuals and organizations to get from where they are to where they want to be.
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I want to see others win!