“HR Heretics” | How CPOs, CHROs, Founders, and Boards Build High Performing Companies Inside Executive Coaching with Nathan Tanner
Dec 18, 2025
In this enlightening conversation, Nathan Tanner, an executive coach and former leader at LinkedIn and DoorDash, shares his journey from corporate burnout to independent coaching. He dives deep into the economics of coaching, revealing transparent revenue insights and pricing strategies. Nathan critiques the common practice of hiring and firing coaches, and emphasizes the importance of strong client relationships. He also discusses the value of vulnerability in coaching and offers strategies for attracting startup CEOs. Get ready for some eye-opening truths about the coaching world!
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Breakdown That Sparked A Career Change
- Nathan hired a coach after a breakdown while at DoorDash and that experience pivoted him toward coaching.
- He used coaching to regain stability and then combined it with HR experience to launch his own practice.
Outside Coaches Unlock Deeper Vulnerability
- An external coach can achieve far greater vulnerability and push than an internal HR partner.
- Nathan says clients will fire him if he pushes too far, which gives him leverage to be direct.
Master Three Roles To Succeed As A Coach
- Prioritize three capabilities: experience, coaching training, and running the business.
- If you lack skill in any of those areas, your coaching practice will struggle.