The Story Behind Explore With Nola

My approach to coaching and consulting is built on a rare intersection of deep academic study and decades of "in-the-trenches" experience. Before launching my own ventures, I spent 25 years in the legal field, a foundation that instilled in me a rigorous attention to detail and a mastery of complex navigation. This paved the way for my career as an entrepreneur, where I successfully built and scaled multiple businesses—including a multimillion-dollar company—while simultaneously consulting for other leaders.

That success afforded me the opportunity to "retire" early, but I quickly realized that for me, retirement isn't about stopping—it’s about choosing what to pour my energy into. I channeled that hard-won business acumen into a Doctorate in Business Administration, specializing in Executive Coaching, and founded Local Bridges. I established this to fill the gaps I saw firsthand: the struggle entrepreneurs face during critical transitions and the lack of holistic support for their professional and personal growth. Whether you are navigating a career pivot or scaling a company, I bring the perspective of someone who has not only studied these challenges but has lived them at the highest levels.

 We believe that professional rigor and creative flow are not opposites—they are partners. Most people rely heavily on one side of their brain, but true innovation and effective transition management happen when you learn to integrate both.

• Whole-Brain Strategic Guidance: I specialize in helping leaders move beyond "either-or" thinking. By utilizing Art Therapy Practitioner strategies, I help you engage both sides of your brain. This creates a state of heightened creativity and innovation that is essential for overcoming business stagnation and personal plateaus.
• A Holistic Approach to Coaching: My work is distinct from therapy. While therapy often focuses on healing past struggles, my focus as a coach is on working with stable individuals who are ready to move forward. My Art-Infused Coaching provides a powerful framework for life’s most significant seasons—whether that is navigating the empty-nest phase, retirement, or the complex steps of the entrepreneurial process. I provide a supportive space where you, and even your family, can gain the clarity needed to navigate your next chapter.
• The Power of My Motto: My philosophy—explore, discover, learn, and inspire—is intensified by the practical techniques I use. This isn't just about talk; it’s about using proven, creative tools to help you shift your perspective, solve complex problems, and move forward with absolute confidence.