A Journey of Transformation and Discovery

My path to becoming a leadership and life coach has been anything but conventional. It’s a journey that has taken me from the world of technology to the depths of self-discovery and back again, equipping me with a unique perspective on culture, leadership, personal growth, and the deeper meaning in our complex world.

From Tech to Transformation

After starting my career as a technical support manager, I ventured into the dynamic field of AI at university. This experience honed my analytical skills and problem-solving abilities, while also sparking a curiosity about the human element behind our digital interactions.

Driven by a desire to understand more about the world and myself, I embarked on a transformative journey. This quest led me to explore diverse cultures as a world traveler, ultimately spending 15 years as a Buddhist monk. During this time, I delved deep into practices of mindfulness, self-reflection, and the pursuit of inner peace. As a monk, I led large residential retreats for families and young people, as well as creative retreats for adults, including ten-day meditation retreats that guided participants on deep spiritual journeys. I traveled and lived in Asia, Australia, and Ireland, where I gave talks, workshops, and retreats. I also served as the lead trainer/facilitator for AFAN (All Faiths and None charity ) traveling around vocational colleges in England to facilitate dialogues for young people and train teachers on how to address the big questions in life. 

The PlayfulMonk Approach

Today, I bring the insights from my varied experiences into my work. I’ve developed the PlayfulMonk approach, a unique method that blends rigorous self-inquiry with a creative mindset.

This approach supports individuals and organizations in actualizing their authentic selves. It’s about recognizing calm amidst chaos, clarity in complexity, and connection in an often-disconnected world.

As a certifed brainspotting therapist with level 4 and master class with David Brand,  a trauma-sensitive approach, has not only facilitated my personal growth, it has also equipped me to support others effectively. I hold accreditation as a coaching supervisor and senior practitioner with the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC). Currently, I serve as the part-time Head of Faculty and Leadership for Blend Associates, where I support National Health Service senior executives, leaders, and teams in navigating complex and stressful environments.

I’ve worked with a diverse array of clients, including founders of large startups, CEOs, managers, and cybersecurity teams, helping them improve their self-reflection skills, boundary management, ethical awareness, and ability to manage personal and group tensions. My current focus is on collective leadership, helping executive teams collaborate effectively and harmoniously for the best sustainable organizational and personal outcomes. I also support PHD students in completing their studies, facilitate men’s groups and a variety of clients that would like to recognise peace in their lives.

Amaranatho is the name given to me as a Buddhist monk. It serves as a reminder of what is sacred in life and honors my time as a monk, as well as all the people who supported me along the way. My work is secular and open to all viewpoints, where this is a fit for both my clients and me. I share aspects of Buddhism only by mutual agreement with my clients. I am English living in the Netherlands with my wife and work remotely with many of my clients from around the world.