Cue the Music
My “hook,” if you will, in most of my blogs is music or movie references. A nod to a movie line or a music lyric that lends a particular emphasis to the topic being discussed. As I have mentioned in my previous writings, if I were to have a do-over for my career choice, I would have chosen music producer. Although I possess limited talents regarding any usable skill set in the music field, I have quite the affinity for a wide variety of musical genres and can discern the difference between what most would consider good versus bad music. “My friend, a hit is a hit is a hit, and this ain’t it, Bubbie” — Hesch from The Sopranos. I fully realize that having a good ear does not translate to a musical career as a record producer, but hey, it’s my blog.
The most prolific music producer in the past fifty years, who admittedly has zero technical expertise in music, is Rick Rubin. He is responsible for producing such varied artists as Run DMC, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dixie Chicks (yes, Dixie Chicks), Metallica, Johnny Cash, and Tom Petty. Record production, at the very least a long career in record production, is based on many factors. One in particular is the ability for the record producer to see the hidden talent, message, and unique sound capabilities of the artist they are tasked to provide guidance to. In addition to helping create their unique musical vision the producer may even inspire the artist to hear something that they may not have been aware of during their recording sessions. The ability to do that is what makes the difference between a good album and a great album. Not to over simplify the music making process the record producer also has to contend with band dynamics, record executive demands, the band’s “recreational activities”, budget constraints, creative differences and deadlines. Record producers are seemingly expected to contend with all of the above while being tasked to facilitate musical magic. When the stars align and everyone rows in the same direction musically, you get Let’s Dance, sung by David Bowie and produced by Nile Rogers. Like I said, musical magic!
The job of a music producer is very similar to that of an Executive Performance Coach. A coach is someone whose role is to help bring out the absolute best in the individual they are working with. This involves helping the person anticipate challenges, fostering a collaborative partnership, and ultimately supporting them in becoming a better version of themselves, both personally and professionally.
The core philosophy of coaching is based on the belief that the client already holds the answers within themselves. The coach’s role is to help unlock those answers and provide a pathway to their greatest solutions.
Similarly, a professional musician does not require a producer to teach them how to play, and the producer has little interest in giving music lessons. Instead, the producer’s job is to guide each musician, and ultimately the entire album, toward the highest level of artistic expression.
In much the same way, a coach helps guide their client toward achieving their fullest potential in their chosen field. This is done not by telling them how to do their job, but by supporting their growth and goals. A coach asks. A consultant tells. Coaching helps develop new, long-lasting professional skill sets, while consulting tends to offer short-term support that lasts only as long as the cycle of new information is relevant.
Perhaps becoming an Executive Performance Coach is my second act. I say that with complete satisfaction and with zero regret, knowing I accomplished everything a healthcare provider could hope to achieve in their field, with the exception of taking my company public. Alongside my team, I built our practice into a multi-state provider of Federal Workers’ Compensation services, offering treatment and claims management to injured federal employees.
Eventually, I sold the company to my employees and I now have the privilege of watching and supporting them from the sidelines. I have since launched Align Coaching Co., where I focus on coaching and mentoring professionals across the healthcare spectrum.
Unlike my fantasy of becoming the next Jimmy Iovine, despite having no musical talent, my coaching career is built on real-world experience. I bring with me a 27-year career as a business owner and healthcare provider, along with experience as a Division I Performance Coach. I have also completed coursework with the College of Executive Coaching and have read hundreds of books on performance coaching throughout my professional journey.
While direct experience in a given field is not always required to create meaningful outcomes, I believe my background as the former CEO of a multi-state healthcare company gives me valuable perspective. I have worked across many areas of the healthcare landscape, and that experience informs the way I guide and support others in their own professional growth.
My approach to coaching clients has always been, and will continue to be, inspired by the mindset of great record producers. I aim to see each individual for their unique capabilities and gifts, and to create a collaborative environment that helps them produce their own version of Thriller or The Wall. I believe we all have talents waiting to be expressed and applied in ways that reflect our highest level of professional potential. Now, let’s get into the studio!
