Welcome! I’m Renée Lilley

organizational psychologist • career development coach • team leader • former English teacher • curator of stories • possibilitarian

I’m now deep into my third act. My first act involved managing the small-town law office of two crusty, criminal law attorneys while being a first-generation college student. My long second act included the evolution of a rewarding teaching career, motherhood to three daughters, and two years living overseas in Sweden. In my third act, I landed stateside, took roles in educational leadership, completed a master’s degree, became an organizational psychologist, and started my own freelance business.

My story has both invited and forced me to befriend change and embrace the science behind the stages of artful transitions. In my life, unexpected change has been the greatest catalyst for personal growth. Changing the narrative has been an opportunity to get curious, examine my self-limiting beliefs, and explore what else might be possible.

My story

I have enjoyed 20+ years as a “guide on the side.” As an educator, team leader, college-to-career coach, and now a career development coach, my motivation has always been rooted in a deep desire to highlight potential and nurture personal agency in others. I’ve coached junior professionals navigating the transition from university to career as well as mid-career professionals seeking ways to level up or pursue something entirely new. Coaching new teachers through their first year, as well as seasoned teachers employing efforts to refine their craft, is always an honor. I’ve also coached countless high school and college students in executive functioning and communication skills. Each one has energized me with their courage to create a new story.

My experience

B.S. in Education
M.A. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology
University college-to-career coaching internship
Knowledge-Based Coaching in the Workplace Certification
Associate Certified Coach by the International Coaching Federation

My training & credentials

Morning bookend: yoga, coffee and the NYTimes, walking the dogs, and reading
Everyday joys: cooking, gardening, and laughing with people I love
Favorite place to go on a Saturday night: a jazz club
Most formative experience: growing up on a farm
Most humbling experience: learning how to sail
Evening bookend: snuggling on the sofa with my husband and our lovable Chipoo and Chiweenie pups