860.256.7879 ruth@meanttobecoach.com

LIFE, and PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COACHING with RUTH KUSTOFF

About me

After years of planning and delivering adult learning and continuing education, I am building on my experience to become a life and professional development coach.

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Professional Experience

Education & Certificates

  • Masters in Experiential and Adult Learning
  • Certified Insight Coach Practitioner from Insight Coaching Community
  • International Coaching Federation Associate Certified Coach (October 2025)

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Professional Experience in Education and Business

I have worked in higher education, global organizations, and as an independent consultant and small business owner. My experience includes identifying skill gaps, analyzing organizational culture, and recommending strategies to enhance individual performance and success. I’ve collaborated with employees, managers, and leadership to understand their needs and develop solutions that support individual and organizational growth.


Focus on Communication and Relationships

In my experience, many challenges stem from communication -- what is said, unsaid, and how it’s delivered. This realization sharpened my focus on individual and organizational communication skills. Whether at work, home, school, or in personal relationships, effective communication is essential. Listening, processing, and sharing are key to achieving our goals.


Passion for Helping Others

I have always been curious about people and their experiences, driven by a real desire to listen, understand, and help. My inquisitive nature and ability to uncover details by asking targeted questions helped me in my career as a learning needs analyst, program developer, curriculum designer, and strategic planner. These skills and experience will also guide me as a coach to help you become who you're meant to be. 


Coaching for Growth and Transitions

Becoming a coach is a natural progression for me. It allows me to use my skills as an active listener and communicator, and it supports my interest in, and curiosity about others.

Committed to lifelong learning, I’ve pursued specialized coaching education and live workshops while working toward my ICF credential. Drawing from my experience in education, coaching, parenting, and therapy, I can help individuals navigate transitions and overcome roadblocks to reach their full potential and become who they are meant to be.

Services

Let your light shine
Life Coaching
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Balanced pebbles
Professional Development
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Group or Team Sessions
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Testimonials

I was fortunate to find Ruth at a Writer's Getaway. Since I have not worked with coaches before I had no idea what I was in for. What I found is that Ruth is amazing! Her approach is straightforward and firm. Her philosophy is to point you back to yourself so you can see exactly what it is that you truly want. Because of this, we quickly determined that I am not good at multitasking and that I do my best work when I am working on one manuscript or poem at a time. I realized that by working on one piece at a time I can see it through to the submission process. My thinking has improved, because of our working relationship, and I do not feel as overwhelmed as I once did. Prior to our weekly sessions, I would have too many irons in the fire and struggled with keeping everything in order. Now, I am more accepting of my new reality (no more multi-tasking) and I have more patience with myself. I am so grateful for Ruth and her ability to be direct and ask tough questions while also being empathetic. I highly recommend Ruth.

Latasha D

Working with Ruth has been an empowering experience. She listens to understand and asks thoughtful, probing questions that help me gain clarity on what I truly want. Her guidance helps me to be focused and aligned with my personal goals. Ruth has the perfect balance between professionalism and genuine care, making her a coach I can trust.

Lisa D

Ruth has a unique ability to create a space where I feel heard and understood. Her questions don’t reflect what I’ve said, they give me new perspectives I hadn’t thought of. Since working with Ruth, I’ve gained a clearer vision of my goals and the steps I need to take to reach them. What sets Ruth apart is her blend of professionalism and genuine compassion. She brings both heart and insight to every session, and I trust her completely as a coach and guide.

Donna W