ABOUT JANICE LICHTENWALDT
Philosophy
At Virago Coaching, I draw deeply on the tough, no-nonsense wisdom of Stoic and Existential philosophies. It’s all about recognizing what is and is not in our control, owning our choices and carving out our unique path in this unpredictable and absurd world. My approach? It's simple: embrace life’s challenges head-on, with a sense of humor and increasing maturity. I am here to remind you that we always have the power to shape our own lives.
I’m here to help you dig deep, find your authentic self, and make the changes you want. Together, we’ll tackle self-awareness, authenticity, and personal growth. Because at the end of the day, Virago Coaching is about rolling up your sleeves, making bold choices, and crafting a life that’s not just lived, but passionately pursued.
Let’s get to it and make things happen!
Coaching Approach
As a PCC-certified Co-Active® coach accredited by the International Coaching Federation, I offer extensive experience and an unyielding commitment to my clients. My approach combines deep empathy with a compassionate yet challenging style. I’m here to help you achieve your personal and professional goals. Together, we will delve deeply—far beneath the surface—to discover who you really are and what you truly want. This journey is not for the faint-hearted. It's essential to understand that my role is not to be your friend; I am here as your unwavering ally and unflinching coach, ensuring you remain true to your commitments. This is your journey; I’m just here to make sure you stick to your path and own it.
Coaching
Executive | Leadership Coaching: Enhance your executive presence and leadership capabilities to navigate complex challenges and inspire your teams.
Mentorship for New Coaches: Receive expert guidance through the certification process, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to confidently start your coaching career.
Positive Intelligence® Coaching: Gain tools to improve mental fitness and personal growth, helping you thrive under pressure and master self-leadership.
Enneagram Exploration & Coaching: Engage in in-depth sessions for individuals, couples, and teams to explore personality dynamics, improve interpersonal relationships, and enhance team cohesion using the Enneagram framework.
Courses, Training and Facilitation
Coaching Business Builder 101: A comprehensive course designed to help you establish and grow your coaching practice, covering foundational business bulding. Perfect for new and aspiring coaches looking to build a successful coaching business.
Leadership Training: Customized leadership training programs focused on developing essential leadership skills such as strategic thinking, effective communication, and team management. Ideal for executives and managers aiming to enhance their leadership capabilities.
Speaking and Facilitation Services: Engage your audience with dynamic presentations and workshops tailored to drive change and foster learning in organizational settings. Perfect for companies and organizations looking to inspire and educate their teams.
My Credentials
I hold a B.A. in Communications from the University of Washington and an MBA in Sustainable Business from the Pinchot Programs at Presidio Graduate School. I am also a proud alumnus of the 10-month CTI Leadership Program. My certifications include the iEQ9 Enneagram Individual and Team assessments, the Hogan Assessment Suite, MBTI, and the Center for Creative Leadership’s 360 Leadership Assessment tool. For more details, please visit my LinkedIn profile.
My Journey to Coaching
After the first time I was laid off (or as I prefer to say, "invited to leave”) at age 39, I told my husband I was fulfilling a lifelong dream to live in Spain and learn Spanish. I spent four months meeting amazing people and developing a wicked Spanish accent (fluency escapes me). After my second "invitation to leave" a job I loved at age 47, I took the opportunity to step away from corporate America to pursue my passion for helping others access the power and magic that lives inside them.
Over the eight years since I made that decision, I have developed a thriving coaching business and enjoy the deep satisfaction of engaging in Right Livelihood. I launched a podcast called "I Am Virago," focusing on fabulous women doing amazing things in the world, imperfectly. I planned on 52 episodes and produced 26 in six months (weekly podcasting is hard work!). I took the plunge, partnered with a group of powerful women, and wrote a chapter in the book, "Women Who Illuminate." The book became an international bestseller. And now I’m offering the Coaching Business Builder 101 course to help new coaches set up their coaching businesses with professionalism and confidence.
The road has been bumpy. I’ve tripped now and again, skinned my knees, and have the scars to show for it. Without question, the rewards have been beyond worth it. And besides, I hear scars are sexy.
Join Me on This Journey
Let's transform your journey into a powerful and fulfilling adventure, whether you're looking to build a successful coaching practice, enhance your leadership skills, or find the confidence to thrive in your career.
Certifications & Credentials
Sounding Board Group Leadership Coaching Credential
Organization and Relationship Systems Coaching (ORSC) Trained
iEQ9 Integrative Enneagram Accredited Practitioner
Level 1 & Level 2 (Team)
ICF Credentials and Standards PCC Professional Certified Coach
Hogan Advanced Interpretation Certification
Hogan Assessments Certification
Co-Active Leadership Certified Co-Active Professional Coach
Hogan 360 Assessment Certification
CPCC Certified Co-Active Professional Coach
Center for Creative Leadership 360 Assessment Certification