Meet David Hoodspith, Executive Coach at Thought Collective

We want to introduce you to David H. , an executive coach at Thought Collective . With over two decades of technical and coaching experience, David brings tremendous value to our members in their pursuit of career and personal development.

David, can you describe your professional background and how you became an executive coach?

I'd be happy to. I started in the tech realm as a developer and evolved over the past 20 years through roles like Agile Coach, Scrum Master, and Manager in the software development and digital infrastructure sectors. Each role deepened my appreciation for the potential within well-led teams and the challenges they face.

What path did you take to becoming a coach? What is your background and experience?

Well, as I delved into leadership, it became clear that while technical expertise is vital, harnessing the power of mentorship and collaboration truly drives transformative change. This realization, combined with my extensive certifications in Scrum, Agile, and Organizational Alignment, steered me toward executive coaching.

My aim? To blend my technical background with my passion for leadership, fostering environments where tech professionals can thrive as well-rounded leaders in a dynamic industry.

And how would you describe your coaching style?

I would define my approach as collaborative and transformative.

I believe in the power of collective wisdom. With a rich history in technical roles and leadership positions, coaching is a partnership. It's not about imposing a one-size-fits-all solution but rather co-creating strategies tailored to each individual or team's unique needs and aspirations.

However, collaboration doesn't mean a lack of direction. My coaching is focused on fostering self-awareness, unlocking potential, and driving actionable change. I aim to challenge and inspire, equipping my clients with the tools and insights they need to navigate their challenges and capitalize on opportunities.

Drawing inspiration from diverse leaders in pop culture, sports, history, and the military, I bring a wide array of perspectives into my coaching sessions. These leaders, with their varied experiences and challenges, offer invaluable lessons that I integrate into my guidance.

Central to my approach is a commitment to continuous growth and a profound sense of curiosity. Whether exploring new methodologies, diving into organizational dynamics, or understanding the intricacies of team collaboration, my coaching ethos is always evolving, ensuring I offer the most relevant and impactful guidance.

Can you share some success stories from past clients you are most proud of?

In one particular instance, I collaborated with a team that was dipping its toes into the waters of agile methodologies. They were a mix of seasoned professionals and fresh faces, all eager but uncertain about how to navigate this new approach. Recognizing their potential and the challenges they faced, I introduced them to the discipline of Scrum.

With its structured yet flexible framework, Scrum served as an excellent starting point for this team. But beyond just the methodologies and processes, the environment I aimed to foster made a significant difference. I've always believed that for teams to truly thrive in an agile setting, they need a space where experimentation isn't just allowed but actively encouraged—a space where failures aren't setbacks but stepping stones to innovation.

I took it upon myself to create this safe haven for the team, where they felt empowered to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. Over time, this environment didn't just cultivate a more efficient and innovative team; it also brought about a more profound transformation. The team began to enjoy their work genuinely. The camaraderie was palpable, the enthusiasm contagious, and work no longer felt like 'work.' It became fun.

The result? A team that was more productive and innovative, happier and more cohesive.

For technology leaders interested in your executive coaching, what is the best way to connect with you?

Today, I provide executive coaching and facilitation services through Thought Collective.

Thought Collective ?is a private network of technology leaders that harness their collective intelligence, share their knowledge, and help each other generate better results for themselves and their businesses.

If someone is interested in our executive coaching, please?join our waitlist; someone will contact you shortly.

Interview by?Christopher A. Smith?and David H. on August 16, 2023.

#technology?#leadership?#growth