Name of your business 
Dr Jo Baldwin Coaching
Who are you?
I’m a Lancashire lass from a working class background. Bestowed with a certain level of intelligence and supportive but not pushy parents, I managed to achieve a vocational degree through hard work and a desire to improve my lot. I’ve been married to my kind and witty husband for 28 years. I’m a mother to two daughters, I’m a fun-loving friend and I enjoy golf, long walks with my dogs and weight training.
What sets you apart from the competition?
I’ve experienced for myself the transformation that results from good quality coaching, so I believe wholeheartedly in the process and the outcomes I can achieve for my clients. My medical background in women’s health brings an additional skill set and knowledge base.
How did the business come about?
During a time of transition in my life, I undertook a coaching programme delivered by ‘One of Many’, a women’s leadership organisation. I felt so enthusiastic about the tools and techniques offered by ‘One of Many’ that I wanted to share them with other women. I was also searching for a new job role at that time and I knew intuitively it had to involve helping people in some way, but I didn’t want to return to hospital medicine. The training offered by ‘One of Many’ to become a certified coach seemed the obvious next step.
What are your main target markets?
My ideal client is any woman who is sensing a need for change in some aspect of her life. It might be to improve something about her current situation, or it may be to put measures in place that can recognise and prevent the long term effects of stress. In the work and career arena coaching helps to ensure continued growth and development, so helping to realise a person’s fullest potential.
How long has your business been in existence?
Since September 2019
What job or achievement makes you most proud?
As cheesy as it may sound, I think my proudest achievement is my family. My two daughters have grown up to be intelligent and opinionated, kind and considerate, capable and savvy. They have each come through their own issues with strength and resilience to face life head on.
Where do you see the business being in five years?
I want to be the ‘go to person’ in the area for delivering one-to-one coaching as well as large group workshops where women can be inspired to make change and fulfill their potential. I would also like to deliver wellbeing and resilience training in the workplace setting.
Why Warrington?
I’ve lived in Appleton, Warrington for 24 years, ever since my husband set up an orthodontic practice here. We had both graduated from Liverpool University and his business decision was purely based on demand at that time.
Tell us one interesting thing about you that people might not know? (ie, hobbies, amusing fact, etc)
I have FOUR kidneys… the normal is two. Greedy!
Fantasy dinner party – which six people alive or dead would you invite?
Michelle Obama – A great example of being strong yet compassionate, aware of her values and her purpose, yet still manages to have an amazing sense of humour.
Frank Sinatra – I grew up listening to his records as Mum was a big fan. Maybe he could sing for us after dinner – I’d accompany him on the piano
George Clooney – Eye candy but eloquent too. I’m not usually one for celebrity crushes, but he has been the one ever since the TV programme ER. Marrying a human rights lawyer gave him even more kudos.
Victoria Wood – Because she would have us in stitches all evening…and the Lancashire connection.
Churchill – An often mis-represented figure. I’d love to know more about the way he configured his day to fit in with his natural energies and to cope with his chronic depression, and still manage to be a great leader. He is a great example of some of the methods I teach regarding replenishing your energy and fitting in time for the things that bring you joy
My late Grandmother – Who always showed such interest in everything I did. I’d love to be able to talk to her woman to woman and gain some wisdom from her.