Meet Stephan Cote | Leadership and Communication Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephan Cote and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephan, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in Boston and raised in Canada by divorced parents, and throughout my life, I constantly heard the word ‘BE’—be kind, be generous, be adventurous, be helpful, be respectful. That mantra shaped my outlook and who I’ve become today. Growing up, I developed a strong sense of curiosity and adaptability, which was further enriched by my diverse professional experiences across different sectors. I’ve worked in religious, non-profit, corporate, and public affairs environments, each teaching me invaluable lessons in communication, leadership, and empathy. These experiences have deeply influenced my approach as a coach and trainer, helping others develop their potential.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is all about coaching leaders to enhance their leadership presence and communication skills, empowering them to inspire and lead with authenticity & impact, whether through one-on-one coaching, workshops, or public speaking engagements. What sets me apart is my genuine belief that most people really want to succeed. I focus on helping them unlock their potential with practical, actionable strategies, while emphasizing emotional intelligence and authenticity. I’m most proud of the impact I’ve had on my clients, watching them grow in confidence, connection, and influence, becoming who they aspire to be and being capable of what they actually can accomplish.

Getting here wasn’t always easy. Life is never easy. Struggles are part of the game! I’ve worked in a variety of sectors—religious, non-profit, corporate, and public affairs—which gave me a wide range of experiences but also required constant adaptation. Early on, I faced challenges with establishing my brand and building a client base. I overcame those hurdles by staying true to my core values: consistency, building trust, and always striving to add value. Learning to navigate uncertainty and lean into risk, much like my dad’s advice to ‘go and risk,’ has been key.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are simple but powerful: resilience, the importance of building genuine relationships, and the value of clear, intentional communication. What I want the world to know about my brand is that it’s rooted in integrity, passion, and a belief that leadership is about lifting others. My story is one of perseverance, and I’m excited to continue helping others elevate their own stories.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week, we’d make it a perfect blend of deep conversations, local exploration, and relaxing by the beach.
We’d start by easing into the week with a laid-back evening at home. Cooking together would be a big part of it—nothing too fancy, maybe something fresh and simple like a grilled dinner or homemade pasta. While we cook, we’d catch up on everything we’ve missed, having those deep, meaningful conversations that make time with close friends so special. Afterward, we’d sit outside with a glass of wine, reminiscing, and setting the tone for a memorable week ahead.
The next day, we’d venture out into Savannah, a city known as the capital of locally-owned restaurants. We’d start with breakfast at a charming spot like Collins Quarter, known for its fantastic coffee and innovative dishes. Or Origin Coffee Bar: Best coffee in town. From there, we’d wander through the historic streets, checking out unique shops, and maybe visiting a local art gallery or two. Savannah’s local food scene would provide a perfect backdrop for more conversation, laughter, and exploring what the city has to offer.
Of course, no trip would be complete without a visit to the beach—my favorite place to unwind. We’d head out to Tybee Island for a full day of relaxation, soaking up the sun, and taking in the calming sound of the waves.
A visit to Savannah’s historic district would be on the agenda for the next day, exploring the rich culture and past that the city is known for. We’d take our time wandering through old streets, visiting museums and historical landmarks. One stop we wouldn’t miss is the MLK Museum, a place where we’d not only learn but reflect on the significance of the civil rights movement and how history continues to shape our world. We’d likely end the day with a thought-provoking conversation over dinner at another local favorite.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents were instrumental in shaping who I am today. My mom allowed me the freedom to discover life, my stepdad guided me into becoming a man of character, and my dad always encouraged me to take risks, reminding me that ‘fortune favors the bold.’ I’ve also been fortunate to have great mentors who invested in developing my leadership competencies, from strategic thinking to emotional intelligence, and coaches who helped refine my communication and influence. Encouragers, whether friends or colleagues, have been by my side, providing support, perspective, and motivation throughout my journey. They allowed to make some mistakes, from which I learned!

Website: https://www.stephancote.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephancote.coach/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephan-cote-b03405b/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephan.cote.1023

Image Credits
Maude Cote Photographer
Government of Saint Lucia