Empowering Change: Olga Ioanno on Building Sincera and Transforming Lives Through Coaching

Over the past 9 years, I've had the opportunity to live in Ireland, return to Ukraine, look war in the eye, and find myself back in my beloved neighbourhood in Dublin. During this time, I've worked in IT, consulting, won awards and EU funding, launched a project with the support of the United Nations, made it to the top 30 under 30 according to the Irish Sunday Business Post, opened a business in Ireland, and become a startup mentor. Through my experiences, I've learned that the most crucial element in any project is people. The success of a business depends directly on its leader and their ability to work with a team. Surrounding me are numerous inspiring stories that I've decided to share with you. In this series of interviews, I will introduce you to leaders who have taken the leap into the unknown, followed their dreams and passions, and launched their own projects. Dreamers who are ready to challenge themselves first and foremost will surely find resonance in your hearts.

Our first guest certainly knows where the boldest dreams and right actions lead. We are living in a period of turbulence, life at breakneck speeds, and rapid changes. The world around us is undergoing transformations, just like us. Technologies are increasingly becoming part of our lives, but in order not to get lost in the flow, to hear our true voice, to be ourselves rather than seem, we need a person. And even better - a coach :) In such times, the guidance of a coach becomes invaluable, offering clarity amidst the chaos and empowering individuals to unleash their full potential.

In this interview, Olga Ioanno , CEO of Sincera, shares her journey into the field of coaching and the inspirations behind it. She discusses the challenges she has faced, the unique value that Sincera offers, and her vision for the future of coaching.?

*Sincera is a transformative coaching platform designed to connect individuals with skilled and empathetic coaches who can help them achieve their personal and professional goals. By fostering a diverse community of coaches and prioritising accessibility, Sincera ensures that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from personalised and impactful coaching.

1. Olga, could you tell us about your journey into the field of coaching and what inspired you to pursue it?

My journey into coaching started with a deep love for people and a genuine desire to help them shine. With a background in psychology, I was always drawn to understanding the human mind and heart. Even as a student, while launching my own business ventures, I found people naturally gravitating towards me, sharing their struggles and dreams. They saw in me someone who could listen and inspire, and that gave me immense joy.

However, my path was not without its doubts. I worried about not having all the answers or inadvertently causing harm. Yet, my intuition and passion for uplifting others always guided me. Over time, I realized that my true calling was to be a beacon of light for those around me, helping them uncover their potential and embrace their true selves. This deep-seated desire to support and empower others became the cornerstone of my coaching career.

2. What challenges did you encounter along the way, and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I faced was overcoming my fear of not knowing enough and the possibility of unintentionally causing harm to those who sought my guidance. This fear often held me back from fully embracing my role as a coach and mentor. I worried that my lack of experience would prevent me from truly helping others.

However, this journey has been one of immense personal growth. Through my own experiences with coaching and mentorship, I discovered the importance of self-awareness and the power of a positive mindset. I learned to trust my intuition and the knowledge I had gained over the years. By working on my own personal development, I was able to overcome my insecurities and step into my role with confidence.

I also leaned heavily on the support of my community — my "tribe" of fellow entrepreneurs and coaches who uplifted and inspired me. Their encouragement and shared wisdom helped me realize that the heart of coaching lies not in having all the answers, but in being present, empathetic, and committed to the growth of those you serve.?

3. How has your background and previous experiences shaped your approach to coaching?

My background in psychology and my journey as an entrepreneur have profoundly shaped my approach to coaching. Understanding the human psyche has always fascinated me, and my education provided a strong foundation in empathy and insight into human behaviour. Coupled with my firsthand experience in the business world, I’ve gained a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs that individuals face.

Running my own businesses taught me about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of a positive mindset. I’ve experienced the highs of success and the lows of setbacks, and these experiences have made me appreciate the power of perseverance and the value of learning from every situation. These lessons are integral to my coaching practice.

Moreover, my entrepreneurial journey emphasized the significance of human connection. Building a business is not just about strategy and execution; it's about creating a community, a tribe of like-minded individuals who support and inspire each other. This belief in the power of human connection is at the heart of my coaching.?

4. What sets Sincera apart from other coaching platforms, and what unique value does it offer to its users?

Sincera stands out because it emphasizes the transformative power of choice and mindset. Imagine having the superpower to choose your state of being each day, attracting the events, people, and relationships you desire. At Sincera, we believe that true coaching goes beyond simply matching users with coaches; it’s about helping individuals connect deeply with themselves.

One of the preeminent authorities in the field of life coaching, Misha Saidov, created his coaching methodology, Metacognitive Programming (MCP), in 2012 and was refining it since then. Sincera is the only organization in the world that is licensed to use this method and allowed to refer to it as the Sincera Method.

Our platform creates a space where people can embark on the most profound love affair with themselves, fostering personal growth and fulfilment. We guide our users to discover their true potential, empowering them to make conscious choices that align with their goals and values.?

What truly sets Sincera apart is our holistic approach. We focus on the whole person, integrating personal development, emotional well-being, and professional growth. Our coaches are not just experts in their fields; they are passionate, empathetic individuals dedicated to making a positive impact. We aim to build a community where users feel supported, inspired, and equipped to lead fulfilling lives.

5. Could you share some success stories or memorable moments from your experience as a coach?

While we never share our clients' stories, even the most inspiring ones, without their permission, I can say that the most inspirational stories are those where individuals overcome their fears and work through their traumas. These journeys lead them to reach previously unattainable levels both internally and in their external lives. Their entire lives transform — from relationships to career and financial self-realization. Witnessing such profound and comprehensive changes in our clients' lives is a testament to the power of coaching and its ability to facilitate deep, meaningful growth.

6. In your opinion, what are the key qualities or skills that make a successful coach?

A successful coach must possess a deep sense of empathy, the ability to truly listen, and an intuitive understanding of their clients’ needs. They should be able to connect on a personal level, offering guidance with compassion and clarity. Inspiring others is at the heart of coaching, so a coach must also have the ability to motivate and uplift their clients, helping them see their own potential.

Adaptability is another crucial quality. The world is constantly changing, and a coach must be willing to learn and evolve to meet the unique challenges that each client presents. Continuous personal and professional development ensures that a coach remains effective and relevant.

At Sincera, one of our core principles is that every coach should be a product of their own product. This means our coaches have undergone their own profound personal development journeys. They possess a thorough understanding of themselves and have honed strong self-regulation skills. By deeply engaging in their own growth, they are better equipped to provide genuine and impactful support to their clients. This personal experience allows them to relate authentically and guide others with the wisdom gained from their own transformative journeys.

7. How do you envision the future of coaching, particularly in the context of digital platforms like Sincera?

The future of coaching is bright and deeply intertwined with digital innovation. I see a future where coaching becomes universally accessible, thanks to platforms like Sincera. These digital platforms break down geographical barriers, making personalized and effective coaching available to a much broader audience.

Digital platforms will revolutionize the coaching experience by offering tailored support that adapts to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Imagine having a coach at your fingertips, ready to provide guidance and encouragement whenever you need it, no matter where you are in the world. This kind of accessibility can democratize personal and professional development, making it a standard part of our lives.

I envision coaching becoming an integral tool for navigating the complexities of modern life. As technology continues to advance, we will see more innovative solutions that blend human empathy with digital convenience. This will allow individuals to grow with greater ease and confidence, supported by a community of coaches dedicated to their success. The future of coaching is about harnessing the power of technology to foster deeper connections, enhance personal growth, and create a more supportive and empowered world.

8. What advice would you give to aspiring coaches who are just starting their journey in this field?

My advice to aspiring coaches is to trust your intuition and remain dedicated to your own personal growth. Coaching is not a one-way street; it’s a journey of mutual transformation where both you and your clients learn and evolve together. Embrace your experiences, both the triumphs and the challenges, as they are valuable lessons that will shape your ability to support others genuinely and effectively.

Stay curious and open-minded. The field of coaching is ever-evolving, and there is always something new to learn. Engage in continuous education and self-improvement to refine your skills and expand your knowledge. This commitment to growth will make you a more empathetic and adaptable coach.

Empathy and genuine care for your clients are paramount. Listen deeply, understand their unique challenges, and guide them with compassion and clarity. Your role is to be a beacon of light, helping them see their potential and navigate their journey with confidence.

Finally, believe in the positive impact you can make. Your passion for helping others is your greatest asset. Stay committed to making a difference, and you will inspire and empower those you coach to achieve their full potential.

9. How does Sincera ensure the quality and effectiveness of coaching services offered on its platform?

Sincera ensures the quality and effectiveness of our coaching services through a meticulous and comprehensive approach. First and foremost, we carefully vet our coaches, selecting individuals who not only possess exceptional skills and experience but also align with our core values and mission. This rigorous selection process ensures that our clients are matched with coaches who are both competent and deeply committed to their growth and well-being.

Continuous training and support are cornerstones of our approach. We provide our coaches with ongoing professional development opportunities, equipping them with the latest tools and techniques in the field of coaching. This commitment to continuous learning ensures that our coaches remain at the forefront of the industry, capable of delivering the highest quality guidance.

To maintain high standards, we implement robust feedback mechanisms and regular assessments. We actively seek feedback from our clients to understand their experiences and identify areas for improvement. This feedback loop allows us to make informed adjustments and enhancements to our services, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible support.

Additionally, we prioritize matching users with coaches who resonate with their specific needs, goals, and values. This personalized matching process enhances the effectiveness of the coaching relationship, fostering deeper connections and more meaningful progress. At Sincera, our dedication to quality and effectiveness is unwavering, and we continually strive to create an environment where clients can thrive and achieve their full potential.

10. Finally, what are your goals and aspirations for Sincera in the coming years, and how do you plan to achieve them?

In the coming years, my goal for Sincera is to expand its reach and amplify its impact, making transformational coaching accessible to people worldwide. We envision Sincera as a global hub for personal and professional growth, where individuals from all walks of life can find the support they need to thrive.

To achieve this, we plan to leverage cutting-edge technology to create innovative and user-friendly coaching experiences. Our platform will continually evolve to incorporate the latest advancements in AI and machine learning, enabling us to provide more personalized and effective coaching solutions. We aim to make the user experience seamless, intuitive, and engaging, so that individuals feel empowered to embark on their coaching journey.

Furthermore, we are committed to building and nurturing a community of passionate and skilled coaches. We will invest in their continuous professional development, ensuring they have access to the best training and resources. By fostering a supportive and dynamic community, we can guarantee that our coaches are well-equipped to guide and inspire our clients.

Another key focus is to enhance our global presence. We plan to expand our reach through strategic partnerships, localized content, and multilingual support, making Sincera accessible to diverse populations across the world. Our aspiration is to create a truly inclusive platform that respects and embraces different cultures and perspectives.

Ultimately, our mission is to empower individuals to achieve their full potential. By providing high-quality, accessible coaching, we hope to inspire positive change and foster a world where everyone has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and live their best life.