An Interview With Chad Silverstein
Better Mental Health Through Mentorship: Coaching is increasingly recognized for its role in improving mental health. Mentors provide support, guidance, and a listening ear, which contributes to overall well-being and resilience. I see people all the time who was struggling with work-related stress. Through regular mentorship sessions, they can focus on stress management techniques and personal development, which will significantly improve their mental health and job performance.
The world of coaching is undergoing a seismic shift, with emerging trends set to redefine its boundaries and possibilities. From digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence to the growing emphasis on mental health and the global rise of coaching cultures within organizations, these developments are reshaping the landscape of personal and professional growth. As we navigate through these changes, understanding the forces that drive the future of coaching becomes paramount. I had the pleasure of interviewing Scott Arbital.
Scott Arbital, is a dynamic creative leader making waves in the small business arena. With his wealth of experience, he has successfully assisted clients with everything from branding to print, web, digital, and social media campaigns, injecting each project with personality and a sprinkle of humor to brighten their day. Scott thrives on pushing boundaries and crafting fresh ideas tailored to each project, enabling his clients to convey a unique message and personality with impact.
Thank you for joining us. To start, could you share your “origin story” with our readers? How did you begin your coaching journey, and what challenges did you face in the early days?
Growing up, I was always an artist, but everything shifted when I took a graphic design elective in my junior year of high school. I’d complete my assignments in class, only to head home and redo them. My teacher may have been less than thrilled to grade my work twice, his frustration evident in the vein popping out of his forehead. But what he didn’t realize was that he was igniting a passion within me — a drive to not only create but to envision a world where I could paint with my own brush and build brands that reflected my perspective.
By my senior year, I had begun sharing my designs on various social media platforms and entering competitions in design and illustration. My dad shared my accomplishment far and wide. One of his friends, a professional in the tech industry, took a particular interest and reached out for a logo design. The project was for RSA Technology, an international cybersecurity firm. Here, I truly gained was the chance to showcase my creativity on a global stage at such a young age.
By the end of high school, I had officially launched my freelance design business. The journey since then has been a rollercoaster — filled with highs and lows, hard-learned lessons, challenges, and victories. There were times when I struggled to find clients, had to master the art of selling myself and my services, and learned the importance of nurturing relationships and practicing patience. Today, I’m proud to say that I’m building something truly special with my branding agency, M. Scott Media.
But let’s rewind a bit…
During my junior year of college, I landed an internship at Evil Genius, where I crossed paths with my long-time mentor, Daries Allani. Daries took me under his wing, teaching me not only how to sharpen my design skills but also how to navigate the world of client relationships — everything from speaking with confidence to selling my ideas and networking effectively. Thanks to Daries, doors opened that led to incredible opportunities, including working with clients like Justin Timberlake, the Hilfiger family, and New York Fashion Week. Inspired by the growth he helped me achieve, I sought out other mentors who guided me as I developed my agency’s branding and design services, secured high-profile clients, and built both my mental resilience and confidence.
As time went on, I felt a growing desire to give back in the same way I had been mentored. I began working with mentees, many of whom were transitioning careers, breaking into new fields, or simply trying to enhance their résumés. Mentoring has become a passion of mine. The process of guiding others is fulfilling, and I often find that I learn just as much — if not more — from them as they do from me.
You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
The three traits I value most and consider essential for effective leadership are curiosity, resilience, and patience.
1. Curiosity: Curiosity has been the driving force behind my growth as a designer and marketer. For instance, when AI was just emerging, I was intrigued by how various fields could intersect to enhance my services. This eagerness to explore beyond surface-level understanding led me to dive into diverse disciplines, from technology to design theory. This broad exploration gave me a holistic view of the industry, allowing me to approach challenges with innovative solutions and stay ahead of emerging trends. By integrating insights from multiple areas, I’ve been able to expand my creative toolkit and contribute to my business’s growth in dynamic and versatile ways.
2. Resilience: Success in design and marketing rarely comes easily, and resilience has been crucial in overcoming obstacles. Early in my career, many of my projects didn’t hit the mark — some were misunderstood, and others simply didn’t work as intended. These challenges didn’t deter me; instead, they drove me to refine my approach. I analyzed what went wrong, sought constructive feedback, and iterated on my concepts. For example, refining my business models involved numerous rounds of trial and error. Resilience enabled me to transform these setbacks into valuable learning experiences and build a stronger foundation for success.
3. Patience: Patience has been vital in pursuing long-term goals in design and marketing. Early on, I often wanted to speed up the process, sometimes bypassing crucial steps. While quick wins can be appealing, I learned that cutting corners often leads to setbacks. Building something exceptional requires time and careful attention. My journey involved methodical testing, waiting for feedback, and making thoughtful adjustments — steps that ensured lasting success. Patience allowed me to deeply engage in learning, refine my skills, and make well-informed decisions that contribute to a solid, sustainable growth trajectory.
Together, these traits — curiosity, resilience, and patience — have shaped my ability to navigate challenges, adapt to change, and ultimately lead with purpose. They continue to serve as guiding principles, helping me grow personally and professionally as I tackle new ventures and build on past achievements.
Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Why does that resonate with you so much?
“Growth happens when you embrace the challenges, learn from the failures, and have the patience to see it through.”
This quote resonates deeply to me and within the design and branding field because success in these areas are rarely immediate. Designers and brand strategists often face numerous revisions, client feedback, and evolving market trends. Embracing challenges means being open to critique and constantly refining ideas. Learning from failures is crucial because not every concept will work on the first attempt, but those setbacks offer invaluable insights. Patience is key as building a strong, resonant brand or design takes time, from understanding the client’s vision to creating something that truly connects with an audience.
In the fast-paced world of design, the pressure to deliver quickly can lead to shortcuts or missed opportunities for depth. The quote emphasizes that true growth — whether in skills, creativity, or business — comes from taking the time to learn, adapt, and persevere through the entire process. This mindset leads to more thoughtful, impactful work and lasting success.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?
Currently, I’m deeply involved in transforming how branding is assessed. My focus is on helping companies refine their target demographics, moving away from broad or generalized approaches to more specific audience profiles. Many businesses attempt to appeal to everyone, which often dilutes their message and impacts their effectiveness. By narrowing down their demographic and creating detailed profiles, I assist organizations in tailoring their communications to resonate with their ideal audience.
I also delve into evaluating their brand foundation, brand diligence, and brand insight. This comprehensive assessment ensures that their branding efforts lead to long-term recognition and success. It’s incredibly exciting because it fundamentally changes how businesses approach branding, guiding them towards a more focused and authentic strategy.
This approach not only helps businesses thrive by clarifying their message and reaching the right audience but also allows consumers to connect more deeply with the brand. They get a clearer understanding of what the business offers and can see the people behind the logo, creating a more meaningful and personal connection. This refined branding strategy ensures that every story remains unique while paving the way for sustained success.
Without saying any names could you share a particularly memorable success story from your coaching career?
One particularly memorable success story involves an individual who reached out to me for coaching as they wanted to transition their career from illustration to graphic design. We started by discussing their motivations and long-term goals, which helped us shape a clear vision for their new career path.
Together, we worked on building a strong resume, creating a standout portfolio, and developing their personal brand. The process was collaborative and tailored to highlight their unique strengths and aspirations. I’m thrilled to share that they are now thriving in their job, working as a key designer for a prominent organization, where they play a crucial part in their marketing efforts. This success story is a testament to the power of targeted coaching and the impact of a well-executed career transition.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview about coaching. How has your approach to coaching evolved over the years, and what personal learnings have you applied to your own development?
Initially, I focused on providing direct answers and solutions to my mentees’ challenges. While this approach offered immediate guidance, I soon realized it didn’t always empower individuals to find their own solutions or develop critical thinking skills.
I shifted my approach to asking more questions instead of providing answers. This method encourages mentees to explore their own thoughts, uncover insights, and arrive at solutions that are uniquely suited to their needs. By guiding them through a process of self-discovery, I’ve found that they are more engaged and invested in their growth.
This shift not only benefits those I mentor but has also been a profound learning experience for me. By adopting a question-driven approach, I’ve learned to listen more deeply and understand diverse perspectives better. It has reinforced the idea that the best solutions often come from within and has enhanced my own coaching practice by fostering a more collaborative and reflective process.
How do you incorporate feedback into your coaching practice to continuously improve?
Incorporating feedback is a cornerstone of my coaching practice, and I view it as a continuous learning process. I approach each coaching relationship with curiosity, eager to not only share my insights but also to learn from my mentees. Every individual has a unique perspective, background, and set of experiences, and I believe there’s always something new to discover from their journey. Whether they are transitioning careers, breaking into the design field, or building their portfolios, I make it a point to actively listen to what each person has to say.
When mentees share what works for them — or what doesn’t — it provides me with the opportunity to adjust my approach in real time. I’m curious about their responses to different strategies and open to experimenting with new techniques that suit their learning styles. This two-way learning process helps me stay sharp, keeps my coaching relevant, and ensures that I’m providing the most value.
In fact, many times I find that my mentees teach me as much, if not more, then I teach them. Their fresh perspectives and new ways of thinking challenge me to expand my own understanding of design, branding, and even how to communicate complex ideas effectively. By being curious and open to their insights, I not only improve as a coach but also grow as a professional and person.
Can you discuss an innovation in coaching that you believe is currently underappreciated but has the potential to significantly impact the field?
Questioning, as a coaching tool, is an often underappreciated but profoundly powerful innovation that can significantly reshape the mentor-mentee dynamic. Many traditional coaching practices focus on providing answers, offering solutions, or imparting expertise from the mentor to the mentee. While these are valuable, they don’t always encourage the critical thinking and self-reflection that questioning does. When mentors ask the right questions, they can inspire deeper insight, foster creative problem-solving, and empower mentees to arrive at their own conclusions — turning the learning process into a more collaborative and transformative experience.
In many cases, mentees may come seeking direct guidance, but when a mentor asks open-ended, thought-provoking questions, it can unlock their potential in unexpected ways. It shifts the dynamic from a top-down flow of knowledge to a more exploratory and personalized journey. For example, instead of giving a mentee the answer to a branding challenge, asking questions like, “What do you think the brand stands for?” or “How do you see this design connecting with your target audience?” encourages the mentee to think critically about the problem and develop their own solutions. This fosters confidence, independence, and a deeper understanding of the concepts they’re working on.
Despite its potential, questioning is underutilized in many coaching relationships. Often, both mentors and mentees are conditioned to believe that expertise flows in one direction. However, the simple act of asking intentional questions can lead to greater breakthroughs, more meaningful conversations, and stronger learning outcomes. When mentees are challenged to reflect on their own assumptions and ideas, they often discover new pathways of thinking, and mentors gain a clearer understanding of their needs, strengths, and areas for growth.
Incorporating questioning into coaching encourages continuous curiosity on both sides, making the process more dynamic and impactful. This approach allows mentees to grow beyond just receiving advice — they become active participants in their own development, which ultimately leads to greater innovation in how coaching is conducted. By valuing questioning as a central tool in coaching, we can significantly transform the mentor-mentee relationship into a richer, more empowering experience for both parties.
In what ways can coaching address the evolving mental health needs of diverse populations in a digitally connected world?
As individuals navigate the pressures of remote work, constant connectivity, and societal challenges, coaching offers a personalized approach that can help build confidence, foster resilience, and provide fresh perspectives. By adapting to the unique needs of diverse populations, coaching becomes a powerful tool for mental well-being in a global, fast-paced environment.
One of the key ways coaching supports mental health is by helping individuals build confidence. For many people, especially those from underrepresented or marginalized backgrounds, feelings of imposter syndrome or self-doubt can be magnified in digital spaces. A coach can help mentees recognize their own strengths and abilities by guiding them through moments of uncertainty and self-criticism. Through structured conversations and tailored feedback, coaches encourage individuals to embrace their achievements, identify growth areas, and develop a stronger sense of self-worth. This confidence boost not only helps mentees excel professionally but also supports their overall mental and emotional well-being.
Additionally, coaching provides fresh perspectives and new ideas, which can be transformative for mental health. In a world where people are often inundated with information, conflicting expectations, and fast-evolving challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Coaches help mentees step back, reframe challenges, and view situations from different angles. By offering a neutral, non-judgmental space, coaches encourage mentees to explore solutions that they may not have considered on their own. This shift in perspective can alleviate feelings of being stuck, helping individuals regain control and clarity over their mental and emotional state.
For diverse populations, this approach can be particularly valuable. Coaching is adaptable, allowing it to address the specific cultural, social, and economic contexts that may shape an individual’s mental health experience. In a digitally connected world, where people are exposed to global ideas and networks, the role of a coach can be to help mentees navigate these complexities while staying grounded in their unique identity and goals.
Finally, coaching helps individuals develop the tools to cope with the stress of digital overload. As people spend more time online, managing boundaries and mental health in the digital sphere is increasingly important. Coaches can help individuals establish healthy habits, maintain work-life balance, and find mindful ways to engage with technology. By building confidence and offering new perspectives, coaching fosters emotional resilience, allowing individuals to thrive in a digitally connected, fast-paced world while maintaining their mental well-being.
How do you foresee artificial intelligence and machine learning transforming the coaching industry in the next decade?
In the next decade, I see artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) transforming the coaching industry in ways that will democratize access, customize experiences, and enhance the overall effectiveness of coaching practices. AI will allow us to scale personalized coaching to reach more people than ever before, while maintaining the core human elements that make coaching impactful.
Imagine an AI-driven coaching platform designed to reflect my own approach, making coaching accessible to the masses while staying true to the values I hold dear — curiosity, resilience, and patience. Here’s how I envision this transformation unfolding:
1. Personalization at Scale: AI will enable highly customized coaching experiences for a vast number of individuals. By analyzing user data and preferences, AI can deliver tailored advice and feedback, replicating the personalized touch of human coaches on a large scale.
2. 24/7 Accessibility: AI-driven platforms will offer round-the-clock coaching support, breaking down barriers of time zones and availability. This will ensure that individuals worldwide have access to coaching whenever they need it.
3. Emotional Intelligence and Adaptability: Advanced AI will recognize emotional cues and adapt its responses accordingly, providing empathetic support and tailored guidance. This adaptability will mirror the human touch in coaching, enhancing its effectiveness.
4. Data-Driven Insights: AI will leverage data to track progress and provide actionable insights, helping individuals set and achieve goals more efficiently. This data-driven approach will facilitate more precise and strategic coaching.
5. Scaling Mentorship: By mirroring my coaching style, AI could extend my influence, offering guidance and inspiration to a global audience. This would enable a broader dissemination of effective coaching techniques and philosophies.
AI has the potential to democratize and elevate the coaching experience, making it more inclusive and impactful for people around the world.
What role do you believe ethical considerations and privacy concerns will play in the future of coaching, especially with the increased use of digital platforms?
Adhering to regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will be more important than ever.
Ethical Considerations: Coaches must prioritize ethical practices to maintain trust and integrity. This includes ensuring transparency in how personal data is collected, used, and shared. Ethical coaching involves respecting client confidentiality, obtaining informed consent, and using data responsibly. As digital tools become more integrated into coaching, it’s essential to navigate these tools ethically to protect client interests and maintain professional standards.
Privacy Concerns: With the rise of digital platforms, privacy concerns are heightened. Ensuring that client data is secure and handled with the utmost care is paramount. The GDPR provides a robust framework for data protection, mandating that organizations implement stringent measures to safeguard personal information. Coaches will need to ensure compliance with such regulations, employing secure systems for data storage and communication, and being transparent about their data practices.
By following the GDPR and other privacy regulations, coaches can build a foundation of trust with their clients, ensuring that their data is protected and their rights are respected. This commitment to ethical and privacy standards will be crucial in fostering a safe and respectful coaching environment as digital platforms continue to evolve.
Could you list and briefly explain “Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Coaching” based on your experiences and insights? If you can, please share a story or example for each.
1. Asking Questions: The shift from providing answers to asking insightful questions is transforming coaching. This approach encourages clients to explore their own thoughts and solutions, fostering deeper self-discovery and empowerment. I worked with a client who initially sought direct solutions for their career challenges. By pivoting to a question-driven approach, they were able to uncover their true motivations and develop a personalized strategy, leading to a successful career transition.
2. AI Growing to Help Individuals: AI is increasingly being integrated into coaching, offering personalized support and scalability. AI tools can analyze patterns and provide tailored feedback, making coaching more accessible. A client of mine used an AI-driven platform to supplement our coaching time. The AI analyzed their progress and suggested customized strategies, which complemented our work together and accelerated their development.
3. Virtual Learning and Mastermind Programs: The rise of virtual learning and mastermind groups allows for flexible, global access to coaching. These platforms facilitate collaboration and learning among peers, enhancing the coaching experience. I actually participated in a virtual mastermind group where professionals from diverse backgrounds shared insights and challenges. This collaborative environment enriched my approach and provided valuable networking opportunities for all involved.
4. Personalized Approach: Tailoring coaching to individual needs and preferences is becoming more prevalent. A personalized approach ensures that strategies and advice are relevant and effective for each client. I always mentor each individual by creating a customized plan based on their unique career goals and personal strengths. This tailored approach helps them achieve specific milestones and increased their engagement and satisfaction with the coaching process.
5. Better Mental Health Through Mentorship: Coaching is increasingly recognized for its role in improving mental health. Mentors provide support, guidance, and a listening ear, which contributes to overall well-being and resilience. I see people all the time who was struggling with work-related stress. Through regular mentorship sessions, they can focus on stress management techniques and personal development, which will significantly improve their mental health and job performance.
How do you envision the integration of coaching within organizational cultures changing the landscape of leadership and employee development?
The integration of coaching within organizational cultures is set to profoundly transform the landscape of leadership and employee development. As coaching becomes more embedded in organizational practices, it will foster a shift toward more open, empowering, and authentic communication.
In the evolving workplace, where traditional hierarchies and rigid structures often hinder genuine dialogue, coaching introduces a dynamic that encourages new perspectives and real conversations. By incorporating coaching into organizational cultures, leaders and employees alike will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful interactions that go beyond superficial exchanges. This renewed emphasis on open communication will help bridge gaps between different levels of the organization, promoting a more inclusive and collaborative environment.
Employees will feel more empowered to express their ideas, concerns, and aspirations, knowing they are valued and heard. This sense of empowerment is crucial for driving innovation and engagement, as it encourages individuals to contribute their unique perspectives and actively participate in shaping the organization’s direction. Similarly, leaders will benefit from a coaching approach that fosters deeper understanding and connection with their teams, enabling them to provide more effective support and guidance.
The integration of coaching will also address a critical gap in current workplace dynamics, where genuine communication has often been overshadowed by transactional interactions and remote work challenges. By emphasizing coaching, organizations can rekindle the art of meaningful dialogue, restore trust, and build stronger, more resilient teams. This shift will not only enhance individual development but also drive collective growth, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and successful organizational culture.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the coaching industry today, and how might we overcome it?
The biggest challenge facing the coaching industry today is the significant saturation and prevalence of spam online. The digital space is flooded with a vast number of coaches, programs, and self-proclaimed experts, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to find authentic and effective guidance. This oversaturation can lead to confusion and uncertainty, as prospective clients may struggle to differentiate between credible mentors and those offering less valuable or misleading services.
To address this challenge, individuals must be proactive in their research to identify the right and genuine mentor for their needs. Here are a few steps they can take to navigate the crowded coaching landscape:
1. Verify Credentials and Experience: Research the background of potential coaches, including their qualifications, experience, and areas of expertise. Look for coaches with a proven track record and relevant industry experience. This information can often be found on their professional websites or LinkedIn profiles.
2. Read Reviews and Testimonials: Seek out reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the effectiveness and credibility of a coach. Authentic feedback can provide valuable insights into a coach’s approach, success rates, and overall impact.
3. Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to peers, colleagues, or professional networks for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a powerful way to find trustworthy coaches who have made a positive difference in others’ lives.
4. Assess Communication and Compatibility: Engage in preliminary conversations with potential coaches to assess their communication style and compatibility with your needs. A good coach should be approachable, listen actively, and align with your goals and values.
5. Be Cautious of Red Flags: Be wary of coaches who make unrealistic promises, use aggressive marketing tactics, or focus excessively on selling rather than providing genuine support. Authentic mentors will prioritize your development and offer clear, realistic guidance.
By taking these steps, individuals can cut through the noise and find a mentor who is genuinely equipped to provide valuable insights and support. In doing so, they can make more informed decisions and invest in a coaching relationship that truly contributes to their growth and success.
What is one long-term goal you have for your coaching practice, and how are you working towards it?
This answer is short and sweet. My goal is to help as many people succeed as I can. To achieve this, I’m committed to expanding my inner circle, offering mentorship, and learning from others in the process.
How can our readers continue to follow your work?
Explore my company’s latest case studies and services on our website: [M. Scott Media](https://www.mscottmedia.com/).
Stay updated with our company’s latest news by following us on Instagram and Facebook:
- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mscottmedia/)
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Connect with me personally on LinkedIn and Instagram:
- [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-arbital/)
- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/scottarbital)
Feel free to email me directly if you have any questions or just want to say hi: [email protected]
Thank you for offering such valuable insights into the future of coaching. We look forward to seeing your work continue to reach new heights, and we wish you continued success.
About the Interviewer: Chad Silverstein is a seasoned entrepreneur and Thought Leader with over 25 years of business experience. He has founded, operated, and exited multiple companies and now builds into a handful of high impact CEOs. Chad has launched multiple online communities, including a recent leadership development platform, and also serves as a strategic advisor for Authority Magazine’s thought-leader incubator program.
To learn more and connect with Chad visit: chadsilverstein.io
Scott Arbital Of M Scott Media On The Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Coaching was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.