In this episode of Business Growth Spotlight, host Heidi Schalk sits down with Jay Hurt, COO of the Academy of Creative Coaching, for an insightful conversation about what it really takes to grow and lead a successful business today.

Jay opens up about the power of creative coaching, not just as a personal development tool, but as a smart business strategy that drives innovation and growth. He and Heidi talk about the important role of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) in shaping the coaching industry and how strong operations leadership supports long-term success in small businesses.

You’ll also hear practical advice on overcoming common challenges, building strategic partnerships, and making better marketing and leadership decisions. Jay shares how understanding your clients and creating a solid decision-making framework can transform the way you grow your business.

If you're looking for real-world strategies, grounded leadership insights, and a fresh take on coaching as a growth driver, this episode is one to catch.

Jay Hurt, COO of the Academy of Creative Coaching is the “coach’s coach.” As an author, international speaker, mastermind facilitator, and relationship coach, Jay offers a unique and strategic approach to relationship and communication. He is a strong proponent of both professional and personal development, as well as being passionate about creating frameworks and principles for coaches in order to help them become more effective communicators and leaders.

Jay’s background, values and beliefs have led him to focus on the importance of good communication in both business and personal relationships. This is reflected in his frequent teaching, speaking and writing.

Jay has a special commitment to see African American couples thrive and live out Godly principles in both the context of dating and marriage. A significant aspect of his coaching and counseling is committed to helping couples thrive and to face the challenges that many African American couples face.

He is the author of The 9 Tenets of a Successful Relationship and his newly released book Before You Jump the Broom. He is a frequent speaker and facilitator of mastermind groups.

**Don’t miss Coaching for Profit, a powerful 2-day virtual training and mastermind hosted by the Academy of Creative Coaching this May! Learn directly from thriving six- and seven-figure coaches how to attract leads, connect with organizations, and scale your business with confidence. As a listener of this podcast, you get an exclusive $500 off with code HEIDI — just enter it at checkout via the link in the show notes or on their website/socials. Let’s turn your passion into profit!

Advanced Professional Coaching Course.

Step into the next chapter of your coaching journey with our International Coach Federation (ICF) Level 2 Training—an immersive, 125-hour advanced program crafted for aspiring coaches ready to deepen their expertise. Over the course of nine months, you’ll join a supportive cohort for three intensive weekends, combined with rich synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences. Go to the link and don't forget to use your discount code HEIDI👇👇👇

👉https://academyofcreativecoaching.mypaysimple.com/s/coach-certification-training-coursesjay@academyofcreativecoaching.com

To connect with our guest, click on the links below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acccoaches/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acccoaches

Website: https://www.academyofcreativecoaching.com

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