GUIDING & SUPPORTING FAMILIES TO CULTIVATE LOVING, NURTURING & RESPECTFUL RELATIONSHIPS

After working alongside families for more than 30 years as an Educator, Mediator and Coach, Lisa Swinburn has seen the transformational impact on family wellbeing when parents learn the art of mindfulness and conscious, self-aware parenting. Emotionally resilient and healthy children are raised when caregivers are invested in their own personal growth. If you’re struggling with relationship challenges, behavioural issues, or you’re just feeling overwhelmed by the realities of parenthood – Lisa can help. Her experience, insight and understanding will support you to navigate through difficult times.

The passion: What inspired you to set up your business?

There was a shift in my life last year that nudged me towards a meaningful career that offered freedom and the chance to make a difference. As a mum who has had her own share of ‘parenting mountains’ to climb, I found myself drawn to guiding parents, teens and individuals towards a happier and more fulfilling life. I wanted to weave together my three decades of experience as a teacher, a peace advocate and a parent to offer a unique blend of support. My deep belief is that in today’s fast-paced world, what people truly crave is authentic connection and a sense of purpose. I’m in my element when I’m nurturing these through my new business as a parent coach and mediator.

The launch: How did you start out in the beginning?

My career began as an English teacher and around the same time I became a parent, I decided that I wanted to be there for my children so I embarked on a new direction. This journey sparked a fascination in me about the dynamics of relationships and the workings of the human mind. I dived into positive psychology, mindfulness, neuroscience, attachment theory and various conflict styles, retraining and growing into roles with various charities such as The Peace Foundation, Greenlight Foundation and the Brainwave Trust.

I had the fortune of being deeply involved in community service, working with parents and teenagers in different settings. But the most profound insights came from my personal journey of being a mother, which added a layer of real-life experiences to my professional background.

I saw an opportunity to create something meaningful and impactful. So, I started crafting my vision for my business. It all began with offering small workshops and one-on-one sessions, drawing upon my experiences and learnings.

The innovation: What was the biggest breakthrough for you with your business?

My breakthrough moment was realising that it was possible to create a career and a business out of something I was passionate about, something that gave my life purpose. I had to step out of my comfort zone, put on the hat of an entrepreneur and dare to dream big. I believe that taking this leap of faith is what sets me apart, and what enables me to offer parents a truly authentic and heartfelt support system.

Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?

Balance for me is a holistic affair – it’s about maintaining the equilibrium of body, mind and spirit. Now that my children have flown the nest, I have more time to focus on work and on myself. I love the freedom to travel for my work on workshops, retreats and to meet a diverse range of people. But equally, I cherish the moments of solitude, of hiking in the mountains and new adventures. It’s this balance, this yin and yang of work and personal time, that keeps me energised and grounded.

The drive: What challenges have you overcome?

Financially securing enough funding to set up the logistics of running my own business was the first practical challenge. Another one was deciding on a market niche as I am aware that even though there are other parenting and mediation services out there for families, I wanted to make sure that I can be successful. Mindful parenting is growing in popularity and I have seen many more parents looking for alternative ways to parent other than the traditional or modern parenting model.

There have certainly been a few mountains to climb on this journey. I faced the common challenges that many small business owners grapple with, one of them being financial. Gathering the resources needed to get the wheels turning was not a walk in the park, but it was a hurdle I was determined to overcome. However, it wasn’t just about funds. One of the most significant challenges was identifying my unique space within parent coaching and mindful parenting. I have faith in my approach and philosophy – though still budding, it is gaining momentum as parents increasingly seek alternatives to traditional parenting models.

In the end, what it really comes down to is belief in the value and transformative power of what I am offering, and belief in myself. This, coupled with my passion and commitment, is what has helped me conquer these hurdles. I know there will be more challenges to face as my business grows, but I’m ready and excited to take them on.

For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?

Running my own business has been a journey of discovery. It offers me the freedom to design my schedule, to be creative and to watch something I created from scratch grow and succeed. The flexibility to work from anywhere, to take impromptu weekend trips, to have the space for self-inspired ideas – it’s a fulfilling experience.

However, there are risks too. There’s significant upfront investment of time and money, and the uncertainty of success. And sometimes, the business throws a curveball – a cancelled client, an unexpected outcome. But I believe these are not so much cons as they are part of the journey. The key is to keep our ego and limiting beliefs in check and to stay grounded in our passion and purpose.

Hopes and dreams: What next?

My dream is to see conscious and mindful parenting become a reality for all parents and children.

The benefits are vast, including reduced stress, emotional regulation and improved relationships. One of the hardest struggles I see in today’s modern age is that many parents become wrapped up in the daily stresses of life and work. When parents learn mindful communication skills, it not only strengthens their relationship with their children, but also benefits their marriage and overall wellbeing on every level.

Another dream along with running my own coaching business and conscious parenting workshops is to raise funds for my work with The Peace Foundation. The charity offers programmes for families and youth by teaching skills that encourage better communication, co-operation, respect and conflict resolution.

For more information on Lisas services, visit www.familycoach.co.nz