We had the good fortune of connecting with Roberta Cocco and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Roberta, how do you think about risk?
Whether it is work, relationships, or adventure our beliefs shape our experience and our emotions are a product of those beliefs. I choose to see risk as something exciting, and an opportunity to learn more about myself and the world to hone my awareness and become intentional about being present. For me taking risks has been foundational to creating strength, uncovering how to maximize my energy and distilling what matters most as I live with purpose. It has allowed me to accomplish more than I’d imagined and walk with my clients with courage as they attempt impossible things.

What should our readers know about your business?

I show up powerfully in this world and execute on many levels as a proven author, teacher, trainer and highly experienced coach. No matter your resume or accomplishments every leader, at some point, has battled stories in the back of their mind, questioning if they are capable, if the plan will work, or what people might think, and coaching is an opportunity to confront those limiting beliefs in a neutral space and unlock what you’re capable of.

Leadership isn’t just about achieving greatness; it’s about knowing and honoring yourself and those around you. I thrive on guiding people to unlock a deeper understanding of themselves, to know what they are capable of and to celebrate who they were created to be. This isn’t hype or mantras, its deep transformational work that can penetrate your personal and professional life. It will level up your satisfaction, deepen your purpose and give you the confidence necessary to lead and succeed.

I found coaching right before my cancer diagnosis; and in a time that could have felt limiting and uncertain I found power and excitement. Mastering the principles I learned to approach my cancer journey and life with creativity and to see opportunities when others saw obstacles. Through these experiences and more I am able to stand with my clients and invite them into courage and a resourcefulness that empowers them.

Many people want ‘different, better or more’, but they aren’t sure how to get there. Coaching unlocks potential. Leverages what is already inside and creates opportunity to take ownership and a more active role in ones life.

We all encounter barriers, flirt with burnout and experience frustration. Small intentional action, toward a clear and focused outcome will transform how you show up and who you become in your journey; to maximize your joy, bring deeper meaning into the process and elevate your success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

There are so many great places to visit and see in St Johns, although I’m partial, having been the first female mayor of our city.

It feels more like a small town with charm and history. St Johns offers a wonderful coffee shop, Global Coffee; where friends meet, play board games and enjoy each other’s company. St Johns would not be the city it is without the people who live here and support it.

A short walk down our main street will introduce you to my favorite BBQ chicken pizza at Mainstreet Pizza or the best burger and a game of pool at Swanny’s. For lunch the St Johns Brewery has an amazing cobb salad and a great assortment of IPA’s, or lagers.

St Johns also hosts the famous artist Ivan Iler who was on Netflix Metal Shop Masters. His sculptures are displayed around mid-michigan and one can be found in Lansing near the river downtown.

A creative hub, our city has many murals and hosts many artists. I love the Glazed shop that offers activities for families and friends to enjoy painting pottery or crafting a variety of other projects. And if you’re more of a ‘get=up=and-go’ person you’ll love the bike trail or Fantasy Forest playground.

Being so close to Lansing it wouldn’t make sense not to visit the ‘big’ city and get some great photos of the Capitol Building, historic churches and tour of the water plant that has more history than you would imagine.

The Lansing Board of Water & Light’s John Dye Water Conditioning Plan was built by workers coming out of the Depression. Inside the front door is a winding art-deco staircase, a high curved ceiling and a ceramic sculpture surrounded on three sides by hand painted murals. These murals tell three stories about water: the destructive force of water, the nurturing ability of water and the role of water in industrial progress. Quite the unexpected gem.

Of course there’s more shopping and eateries, an art museum, free to the public with a study area and so many beautiful and historical surrounding buildings and interesting shops to visit.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband Brad has been instrumental in my journey. His unwavering support and encouragement has allowed me the opportunity to pursue my career. He has always shown me love, often believing in me more than I did. We all need a ‘Brad’ in our life! I also would not be who I am today without my three amazing children who inspire me to enjoy life and love the journey.

Website: https://www.robertacocco.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertaedencocco/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@robertacoccocoach

Image Credits
Mary Duprie the burgundy and white outfits

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.