Shannon Cochran-Yzquierdo, ACC, PMP

Shannon Cochran-Yzquierdo is the founder and owner of Coaching Courage, LLC, where she empowers leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to build confidence, deepen self-awareness, strengthen their "courage muscle" and lead with authenticity. Her career journey is marked by bold transitions—from beginning as a public school science teacher in Oklahoma to pursuing a master’s degree in forensic science, and later entering the world of federal service. Although an injury during FBI new agent training redirected her path, Shannon pivoted into intelligence analysis and went on to spend two decades as a government contractor supporting the U.S. Intelligence Community. Over time, Shannon’s work evolved from analytical and operational roles into people-centered leadership development. While serving as a relationship manager with the FBI, she discovered a passion for listening to leaders’ challenges and helping them navigate complex professional landscapes. Encouraged by a mentor, she pursued executive coaching through Georgetown University, which became a turning point in her career. Today, she works with executives and emerging leaders to strengthen their “courage muscle,” guiding them to embrace discomfort, expand their perspective, and grow into more effective, self-aware leaders. Shannon’s coaching is deeply influenced by her diverse life experiences, including her multicultural background and identity within the LGBTQ+ community, allowing her to connect authentically with a wide range of clients. After the passing of her father in 2023, she further expanded her work by creating grief-focused workshops to support others navigating loss. Now a full-time entrepreneur, she combines her background in science, intelligence, and leadership development to deliver impactful coaching, facilitation, and speaking. Outside of her work, Shannon enjoys spending time with her wife, exploring nature, and giving back through volunteer efforts, living out her mission of helping others lead with courage and purpose.