Testimonials

Traci Macfarlane

Traci

“I am back in control of my life. I am clear, confident, more self-aware, and there are no more obstacles! So many of the ideas that were in my head are moving forward. Sara is a great coach, non-judgmental, and very present – I couldn’t imagine doing this with anyone but Sara.”


– Traci
Ann Douglas

Ann Douglas

“Ready to take a deep dive into all things midlife? Invite Sara Smeaton to be your guide! Sara has a gift for translating abstract ideas into real-world strategies — strategies that feel both exciting and attainable. Her warmth, humour, and honesty lend themselves to thought-provoking conversations. Once you’ve talked to Sara, you’ll never think of midlife in quite the same way again.”


– Ann Douglas
Author and Radio Columnist

Paula Coop McCrory

“I went into the Women’s Circle, battling self-doubt and anxiety. Working with Sara gave me the opportunity to identify the root of these feelings and the skillset to curb and manage them in a space focused on self-compassion and forgiveness. Being part of the Women’s Circle helped me build up the confidence I needed to make decisions about my career, which I had been struggling with. Being in the company of other women navigating their own journeys was healing and uplifting. I’m so grateful for having the opportunity to be part of the Women’s Circle and working with Sara.”


– Paula Coop McCrory

Power Years™ Workshop participant 2

“Sara was so engaging and knowledgeable. She was very comforting and non-judgemental and had a beautiful way of getting our group to open up and be honest. She helped me see things in my life I haven’t acknowledged. This has inspired me to look at those truths and make changes to make me a happier version of my current self. She is a gem of a coach.”


– Power Years™ Workshop participant

Karen Ward

“I hired Sara when I was about to make some changes in my business. I hired her (instead of a business coach) because I knew this change would require an examination of values, identity, and life priorities, as well as a business model evolution. I was also clear, at midlife, that I wanted the next decade to look and feel different than the last one.

Sara is an extraordinary coach. She is curious and kind and masterful at holding space for the mess and uncertainty that is an inevitable part of transformational change. She is creative and intuitive and deeply committed to you coming home to yourself, to becoming the best and most resilient and powerful version of yourself as you stride into your Power Years.

There is so much magic and moxie and even mischief available to us in midlife. Sara is such an incredible partner and guide into the best of all of it. I can not recommend her highly enough.”


– Karen Ward

Power Years™ Workshop participant 4

“The Power Years workshop helped me think about things in a different way by answering unexpected questions and was less intimidating than I anticipated. Sara created an ideal safe space. I give it 10/10.”


– Power Years™ Workshop participant

Samantha

“Having just completed Sara’s Women’s Circle, I am excited and energized for my next chapter. Before taking the course, I hoped to have a structured way to rethink my life choices and find a path to move forward. My expectations were more than met with thoughtful group discussions and exercises that challenged my unhelpful habits and thoughts.

I am newly committed to my personal growth, and have a better understanding of my saboteurs and strengths. I will revisit the exercises to gain even more self-wisdom. I also met very inspiring women and made new friends.

I would recommend Sara’s course to anyone looking for a safe, nurturing, and thought-provoking way of connecting to what matters most in life. The course was fun, energizing, and the highlight of my week!”


– Samantha

Stacey

“I was looking for clarity around some significant personal and professional shifts occurring during a chaotic time in my life. I had huge ideas but was unclear how to move ahead with them. Working with Sara was relaxed and calming. The way the sessions progressed allowed me to focus on the concepts, integrate them, call on them, and utilize them between our calls. This structure gave me the tools and the confidence I needed to start articulating my goals and moving forward with them. The outcomes of my work with Sara have been:

  • Newfound confidence, self-trust, and clarity about what I want in all my roles (entrepreneur, wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend).
  • An exciting professional roadmap that incorporates my whole self and stays true to my dreams, beliefs, values, and purpose.
  • An authentic vision of my future self to look to as a mentor and guide.
  • Tangible and practical ways to keep me connected to my vision and on the right path.

If you’re thinking of doing this program, I would say, dive in from the most open place you can find within yourself, and you will open a pot of endless golden nuggets.”


– Stacey

Pam N.

“I would recommend Sara to anyone who wants more confidence, clarity, and accountability.”


– Pam N.

Power Years™ Workshop participant  3

“It feels as though we all need to take time aside to reconnect with ourselves and challenge our belief systems. Sara did an incredible job of helping us to navigate that in a safe and welcoming environment.”


– Power Years™ Workshop participant 

Name withheld

“I was seeking clarity around my career and whether it was time for a major pivot. After completing the [one-on-one coaching] program, I feel like I have a deeper understanding about who I am and what I want out of life. It reinforced the dreams I have for myself and opened my eyes to new possibilities. I also feel so much clearer that I am on the right path. Working with Sara helped me look at who I am and who I am becoming, which was a step I needed to take before making any major decisions about my career. Each session was valuable and as a coach, Sara was really great, comfortable, fun, and always brought a sense of purpose.”


– Name withheld

Stephanie

“After working one-on-one with Sara, I have so much more clarity. I’ve begun a new career path, have clear boundaries, am defining my direction and owning my unique skills and strengths. I know who I am as a leader and have a better sense of purpose. I’ve got the tools to make decisions that help me better balance my life and show up authentically and unapologetically in all areas. Sara is a great coach who helped me unlock insights I couldn’t find on my own. This work was a transformative experience that feels necessary for anyone who wants to get clarity about who they are and how they want to grow as a person. The experience will change how you approach your life and build your future.”


– Stephanie

Pam H.

“After spending many, many years in the large corporate realm I was completely hollowed-out when my job was eliminated. Sara listens with empathy, care, and wisdom. She helped me rediscover what has real meaning and value — and how far I had strayed from my true self. The notion of “what’s next?” is still very much out there for me but I now embrace it with a sense of optimistic possibility; clarity of my personal values and truths; and the confidence that everything really is going to work out just fine…”


– Pam H.

Stephanie – short

“I have so much more clarity. I’ve begun a new career path, have clear boundaries, am defining my direction and owning my unique skills and strengths.”


– Stephanie

Loo

“I feel renewed. I now have a better sense of self and understanding and acceptance of where I have been and where I want to go. I see what I need to do to get where I want to go and the importance of placing myself at the centre of that journey. Sara helped me hear my inner voice, honour my values, and be open to all that is possible. It helped open the door to further study — to being okay with looking deeper and being confident in what I am truly capable of. It really made me feel like I belonged to an awesome tribe — the middle years!! The best years ever.

I found the pace and length of the program fit perfectly for me — it was just enough to begin to dig in but not overwhelming and didn’t lead to feeling like I had “failed” if I didn’t complete it. I took the program when there was a lot of general overwhelm happening. It allowed me the time I needed to reflect on myself — to recharge and begin with a new perspective. It was truly the perfect program at the perfect time. Thank you, Sara!!!”


– Loo

Meghan

“I’m so happy that I took the leap and hired Sara to help me see what is possible for life and the rest of my journey! Thank you, Sara!”


– Meghan

Stephanie K.

“After years of putting everyone else ahead of myself (because I believed that is what a good mom and wife does), this program had me face some confronting questions.

I am filled with deep, deep gratitude for Sara’s guidance as I take all the heavy, heavy coats of SHOULDS off my shoulders and relax in the joy that being me is more important. I have renewed strength, now overflowing to help my whole family deal with the pandemic and the uncertainty. I am no longer feeling like a victim in this moment, but the sage wife and mother able to give more to myself and my family.

Sara is a fantastic coach who really listens and can see your best-self. The wisdom I have gained from this coaching will undoubtedly be the core of my future planning and has given me treasures I will cherish for years to come. Be ready to work hard, see yourself anew, cherish everything more, and feel like you can dream again.”


– Stephanie K.

Darlene K.

“The Power Year Women’s Circle was like being on a masterfully curated retreat. It provided beautiful materials for inner reflection, exploration and action, as well as the space to do it at a time that was convenient for me. The weekly Zoom calls under Sara’s beautiful facilitation provided a welcoming, safe, and intimate setting to share learnings, feel the incredible support of the group, and witness the magic that happens over six weeks as each individual member uniquely owned their power to live more fully. I highly recommend this six week program as a gift to come home to yourself and all that is possible! You so deserve it and will not be disappointed!”


– Darlene K.

Melanie

“When I find myself weighed down by things, I think about the tools I’ve learned and I feel almost immediately lighter! Working with Sara is so worth it. You’ll find parts of yourself that you’ve forgotten and you’ll remember who you are, what you love, and what you’re capable of. I want to enjoy this portion of my life and now I know I will.”


– Melanie

Rosie

“Sara’s sunny warmth and kindness, combined with her deep empathy and insightful questioning, enabled her to challenge and push me — but always in the most supportive ways. Through working with Sara, I have a clearer understanding of my values and the importance of celebrating and channeling these to be my best self. I came out the other side of my work with Sara with motivation and direction, and a new strength and resilience. I am so grateful to Sara for what she has opened up for me, and feel very lucky to still have her rooting for me!”


– Rosie

Shelley

“Sara is smart, empathetic, understanding, and kind, and she’s wonderful at helping you focus on what needs to be done to move you to the next chapter of your life.”


– Shelley

Amy

“I had only one session with Sara, but in that session, I gained a very powerful tool — one that’s stuck with me — the ability to choose who I want to be, whether in my work or day-to-day interactions. A moment of envisioning how I want to feel inside and how I want to come across can make all the difference in my outward energy and confidence. Right after my session with Sara, I had a job interview via Skype. Taking the time in advance to visualize myself at my best fueled the entire interview with a sense of ease and support. Somehow, letting myself live up to my potential took the pressure off, and I was able to let my true energy flow. There’s freedom in being able to live at your highest level! Midlife can be such a time of questioning — big questioning! — and Sara’s open ears and thoughtful, perfectly-timed insights bring clarity and that boost of confidence just where you need it.”


– Amy

Melanie Minor 

“I joined Sara’s Women’s Circle just when I was on the cusp of making significant life changes but felt stuck, maybe even a bit scared. Having the opportunity to face some of those fears head-on, with Sara’s guidance and the support of other women in a similar life stage, was liberating and inspiring.

Carving out time for the circle each week was one of the kindest gifts I gave myself. It was the ultimate self-care for the soul.”


– Melanie Minor

Power Years™ Workshop participant 5

“I feel that regardless of whether someone is at a crossroads or feels they have it all figured out, this workshop is a great reflection tool, a useful way to put into perspective where we are and where we want to be – whether it be career, relationships, or lifestyle.”


– Power Years™ Workshop participant

Jennifer Delaney

“Sara is awesome! Worth EVERY penny!! (And I am VERY frugal, so that is saying A LOT.) I instantly felt like we’d been friends forever, and I could say anything, and she would never judge me. Sara saw clearly into the core of me in a way I don’t think anyone else ever has. If you are considering working with Sara, do it. Don’t think twice, you won’t regret it. It changed my life.”


– Jennifer Delaney
Marina-Dempster-client-of-Sara-Smeaton-Coaching-testimonial-square-c

Marina Dempster

“Sara is far more than an experienced and effective coach. She is a highly intuitive and sensitive leader who made me feel at ease and able to access my own wisdom in adaptable ways I could not have imagined possible before. Working with Sara is a beautiful process of healing, dreaming, and manifesting one’s deep truth.”


– Marina Dempster

Julia Seager Scott

“Sara has helped me consciously acknowledge my blocks and shown me how different aspects of my inner strength can come to the forefront and help guide me to choose my best self in work, health and family life. Sara climbs emotional mountains with you, she dives deep into discussions, she helps you see the big picture when you get bogged down in the details and she holds you accountable to yourself all in a creative, non-judgmental and fun way! With her wonderful mix of practical tips and inspiration to dream big, Sara has actively helped me turn many of my dreams into reality.”


– Julia Seager Scott

Jennie

“I really enjoyed the prompts in the weekly ‘homework’. I ate that up. It structured my usually free-flowing thoughts. It forced me to consider some great questions. I also enjoyed hearing everyone’s experiences too.”


– Jennie

Lisa Woods

“Working with Sara brought me profound self-discovery that I did not expect. It has been nothing less than miraculous. I am forever changed. The sessions provided me with an embodied vision for how I will continue being in the world and one that I feel emboldened to step into. I am painting again after seven years of no desire. I feel inspired, energetic, creative, and enlightened. My relationships feel deeper and more generous spiritually. If you are receptive to opening your mind and heart to experiencing a deeper part of yourself and the gifts you have to give the world, you will not be disappointed. Sara is a safe, gifted, experienced guide. Working with her is magical, delightful, rewarding, and fulfilling.”


– Lisa Woods
Johanna Reynolds

Johanna Reynolds

“Sara Smeaton is masterful with her coaching. After ten sessions, I feel stronger from a very deep place. For me, it’s been about building emotional resilience. This has felt like a missing piece for years now — and Sara’s line of questioning combined with her gentle guiding has allowed me to find my way to filling in this gap. I’m so grateful to have had this time with her.”

Photo by Marina Dempster


– Johanna Reynolds

Julia

“I joined Sara’s Women’s Circle, because I was hoping to clarify which direction my work should take. The work I have devoted my life to suddenly disappeared due to the pandemic. After the shock and upset settled down, I decided to use this time to explore other passions that I just didn’t have time or energy to devote to before. I had a spark for a new career path and decided to take this course to give myself time and space to explore that career possibility. 

I was surprised how both my personal and professional lives were affected by taking this course. I have a new appreciation for my own strengths to tackle significant issues. Another surprising benefit is that I have met some intriguing, powerful women that I look forward to continuing to connect with.

Sara created a safe space to explore my inner workings with others. I loved it and felt it was excellent value for the money and time spent.”


– Julia

Anne Carty

“What makes Sara unique is her ability to ask questions that make you think about an obstacle from a different angle. In my experience with Sara, it is her guidance in finding that new perspective that opens the door to the solution — she doesn’t offer the solution but she provides the path to finding it.”


– Anne Carty
Alan Dilworth, Artistic Director, Necessary Angel Theatre Company

Alan Dilworth

“Sara is an extraordinary listener and thinker, and is deeply insightful. Her coaching is both big picture and practical. It is always applicable. Sara was an indispensable coach for me in one the most challenging periods of rapid growth in my journey as an artistic and institutional leader, as I was called on to step in and successfully lead a large arts institution through a major unprecedented crisis. She was a true partner in this challenging but defining time. My work with Sara continues to be highly relevant in my latest artistic leadership adventures with Necessary Angel.”

Photo by Dahlia Katz


– Alan Dilworth
Artistic Director, Necessary Angel Theatre Company

Kelly

“Decluttering inside and out is so powerful. If you want delicious conversations and questions to lead you to greater clarity about how you want to think about and live your life, then this workshop offers a pathway.”


– Kelly

Power Years™ Workshop participant 1

“This workshop is a contained but very focused and valuable exercise in reflection, taking action, naming vulnerabilities but challenging ourselves not to be limited by saboteurs/negative self-talk. I felt a lot of encouragement to seize my own agency and appreciated hearing from other women experiencing similar struggles.”


– Power Years™ Workshop participant
KathyOConnell

Kathy O’Connell

“The Power Years groups have been such a gift in this time of midlife transition (I embraced the great resignation/awakening in 2021). Having a career as a corporate executive leading a group of internal executive and team coaches at a global pharmaceutical company, provides me a unique insight into the qualities that make a great coach and I can say Sara is a truly exceptional coach.

Sara is so talented at creating a safe space for women across the globe to come together to share and learn together. She has a beautiful presence, writing style, and her approach has been so powerful for me. After completing her Fall 2021 Women’s Circle, I am continuing with an ‘alumni’ group of women and recently participated in a session on ‘Taming Your Should Monsters’ that helped me see my saboteurs in a way I hadn’t before. I believe this work is important for any woman who is wanting to reflect on her life and way of being in the world and who wants to create a more fulfilling, authentically lived life.”


– Kathy O'Connell
San Francisco, CA
Traci Macfarlane

Traci – short

“I am back in control of my life. I am clear, confident, more self-aware, and there are no more obstacles! So many of the ideas that were in my head are moving forward.”


– Traci

Florence

“If you open yourself to the coaching process with Sara, you will not be disappointed, because she takes you on a journey, that is yours alone, holds you accountable, and celebrates all the wins with you along the way. The results have been life-changing.”


– Florence

Johanna S.

Sara provided insightful guidance and warm encouragement as I navigated what I wanted in my next chapter, as I was selling my home of 30+ years and planning semi-retirement. She helped me distill my goals and listen to myself. I look forward to working with her again.


– Johanna S.

Rosa Monitz Tarle

“Sara listens and connects to the whole of what is being said, opening up a larger framework that shifts viewpoints, bringing clarity to questions and answers you didn’t know you were asking and seeking.”


– Rosa Monitz Tarle

Jill M.

“From the first meeting of the Power Years™ Women’s Circle, I found an incredible group of women that Sara had brought together to discuss how we can be more powerful and focused in our lives and careers. She put together thoughtful exercises for us to reflect on each week that helped me get and stay in touch with my “true self” and move forward in my journey for a richer and more fulfilling life. Following the reflection each week, I was fortunate to be able to discuss these ideas in a safe environment with caring, supportive, and creative women. Sara expertly facilitated our discussions, and I left each week feeling refreshed and excited about what is possible next.”


– Jill M.

Deborah

“When I think back on the year that I have been working with Sara, I see that she helped me ‘get ready’ for a relationship/partnership that I had craved for many years but had not been able to invite into my life. She was my lifeline in the early months of that relationship as I navigated the hidden and not so hidden ‘shoulds’ of my committed ‘hands-on’ parenting of my emerging adult son as I introduced my needs and desires into the mix. Nine months later, the romantic relationship is flourishing and my parenting relationship with my son has evolved and matured. Professionally, we have discovered the next transition in my work life that is a natural evolution of the seeds I have planted over the last decade or so. I feel curious and excited about this moment in my life.”


– Deborah
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