Traci Philips
Traci Philips is a high-stakes leadership and performance coach, M&A strategic advisor, and visionary specialist, known for leveraging neuroscience and systemic theory to catalyze leaders’ communication, strategy, and vision. As the founder of The Innate Coach, she partners with top-performing corporate and entrepreneurial leaders to define their zones of brilliance, amplify their impact, and operate at the highest level of visionary leadership. Traci’s work focuses on helping leaders clarify their mission, communicate their purpose, and empower their teams to execute with precision, all while creating alignment between vision, actions, and outcomes.
Traci’s journey into transformative leadership began through her volunteer work mentoring male industry leaders incarcerated in federal prison. There, she honed her expertise in high-stakes decision-making, communication, and mindset, learning firsthand the cost of poor leadership and the power of self-awareness. These experiences shaped her approach to coaching, emphasizing authentic leadership, strategic clarity, and the development of human intelligence to navigate complexity. She extends this philosophy through her programs, including Impact Sprint, Legacy Impact, and premier visionary partnerships, as well as her book, Looking IN, which guides leaders to deeper self-awareness and confidence.
Beyond coaching, Traci has built a career rooted in education, wellness, and empowerment. She has served as a French program director and instructor, founded holistic wellness initiatives, and supported communities through nonprofit engagement, consistently focusing on growth, alignment, and authentic impact. A sought-after speaker and mentor, Traci blends practical insight with intuitive guidance, helping leaders rise above limitations, innovate fearlessly, and leave a lasting legacy in their organizations and industries.
• Certified Holistic Health Coach (CHHC)
• MA - University of Colorado Denver
• University of Colorado Denver - M.Ed.
• The Association for Corporate Growth (ACG)
• Women Speakers Association
• Business Networking International (BNI)
• Exit Planning Exchange (XPX)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of experience, insight, and a deep commitment to helping others rise. My journey began in education, including 15 years teaching English in Switzerland, which laid the foundation for my approach to coaching. When I founded The Innate Coach in 2012, I initially worked with entrepreneurs, but over time, I discovered my true calling: executive leadership and performance coaching. A turning point came when a client, a clinical psychologist, recognized a unique talent in me, and we spent three years co-developing a pioneering program together.
With the heart of a teacher, I often see myself as the “mother bird,” helping others take flight. My greatest accomplishment is fully embracing this supportive role and finding joy in witnessing my clients recognize and claim their own worth. My path hasn’t always been conventional—I’ve often felt like the “black sheep”—but navigating the space between challenge and support has shaped my approach and fueled my mission.
As the author of Looking In, I now help visionary leaders and entrepreneurs define their unique value and communicate it with clarity and purpose. I bring a trademark combination of straightforwardness, positivity, and skill to every engagement, and I’m passionate about guiding others to step fully into their potential.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are integrity, curiosity, and connection. I strive to approach every situation with honesty and authenticity, while remaining open to learning and growth. Outside of work, I prioritize balance and joy—whether that’s cycling with my husband, traveling to new places, tending to my garden, reading, or spending quality time with friends. These activities not only recharge me but also deepen my appreciation for life and the people around me.
Locations
The Innate Coach
Pittsboro, NC 27312