Erica Waldon, a high school Spanish teacher from Sheboygan, Wisconsin, has spent years shaping the lives of her students in the classroom. With a passion for education and personal growth, she found herself naturally drawn to helping others outside of academics. “I’ve always enjoyed working with teenagers exploring life for the first time,” Erica shared. “I use a lot of coaching techniques with my students, and they’re locked in anytime I start to talk about life coaching.”

Encouraged by a psychologist she worked with during a challenging time in her life, Erica decided to pursue life coaching—a path she had long been curious about. But as a single mother and full-time teacher, taking this leap was daunting. “I’ve always wanted to do something like this,” Erica said. “But I thought, ‘What if I invest in this and don’t get any clients?’”

Why Health Coach Institute?

After extensive research, Erica chose the Health Coach Institute (HCI). She was drawn to its dual certification in health and life coaching and its recognition by Forbes as a top program in the field. “I loved that it was reasonably priced, reputable, and offered a program that covered both life and health coaching,” she said. “They go hand in hand, in my book.”

She completed her certification in July 2024, a journey she described as both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. “The program was exciting—it backed up what I already knew and gave me a clear framework to follow,” Erica said. “Having that script and sequence of questions was invaluable.”

Building Her Business, One Step at a Time

Erica’s transition into coaching wasn’t just about learning new skills—it was about learning how to build a business from scratch. HCI’s guidance proved pivotal. “I loved how HCI walked us through the business-building process. They taught us how to market ourselves and gave us tools to get started,” Erica said.

Taking what she learned, Erica dove headfirst into promoting her new venture, Waldon Wellness. She created business cards with a QR code, printed flyers, and hand-delivered them to attorneys, judges, doctors, and school guidance counselors in her community. “It was scary at first,” Erica admitted. “I felt like an imposter—‘Who am I to do this?’ But I kept pushing through.”

She also launched an Instagram account where she shares daily inspirational posts, and a website, which includes her blog and information about her services. “Online marketing isn’t my strong suit, but I’m learning,” she said.

The Power of Community

One of the most significant aspects of Erica’s success has been the support of the HCI community. “It was amazing to meet people from all over the U.S., hear their stories, and cheer each other on,” she said. Post-graduation, the community has remained a source of encouragement. “I love that we have continuing support. I still go back and listen to recorded sessions—it keeps me fresh and inspired.”

Making a Difference, Locally and Virtually

Despite living in a small town, Erica quickly built a thriving practice. Her clients include high-achieving teens, college students, and divorced adults—areas she feels deeply connected to through her own experiences. “I’ve been through abuse and divorce, so I understand what some of my clients are going through,” she shared.

She also works with clients virtually, like a college student in Ohio whom she meets weekly over Zoom. “It’s proof that you can reach clients no matter where you live,” Erica said.

A Word of Encouragement

For those considering a career in coaching, Erica’s advice is simple: believe in yourself. “You have to believe in the program and your ability to make it work,” she said. “There’s a huge need for this work—whether it’s with students, parents, or adults. If you make yourself known, opportunities will come.”

Erica’s journey is an example of the power of life coaching—not just for her clients, but for herself. “I’m so glad I took this leap of faith,” she said. “It’s changed my life in ways I never could have imagined.”

Are you ready to become a health and life coach? Learn more about the Health Coach Institute today to learn how you can transform lives—starting with your own.

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Health Coach Institute provides aspiring Health and Life Coaches with the tools, training, and support to make a great living transforming lives.