Why Great Leaders Leave Safe Jobs: Liz Amenta on Coaching, Growth & Culture Shifts
What do I say about my best friend, who I met in college 20 years ago because I was an awkward band kid who showed up WAY too early to a house party? I’m so impressed by the career path Liz has taken – both as a CPA and now as a professional Coach. It takes a lot to make a career pivot that goes against everything you’ve been taught at home and in school, in pursuit of doing what makes you happy and what – from the outside looks like something – you should have been doing all along.
S2 E5 – What’s it all about?
In this episode of Bright Ideas, Jessica Duemig talks with Liz Amenta, a former CPA who became an executive coach. Liz shares how her passion for mentoring and team development led her to leave accounting. She explains how coaching helps leaders build stronger teams by aligning personal values with workplace culture.
Jessica and Liz explore how mindset and self-awareness impact leadership performance. Liz uses tools like the Energy Leadership Index (ELI) and values assessments to help clients grow. She explains that coaching is different from consulting—coaches guide, ask questions, and support internal change rather than give solutions.
The episode also compares coaching in business to coaching in sports. Both focus on small adjustments that lead to better results. Liz encourages professionals to challenge outdated beliefs and redefine success in their own terms. She reminds us that it’s okay to pivot, and that growth starts by taking control of your path.
Connect!
Take a look at Liz’s website, Amentacoaching.com.
Do yourself a favor and take the ELI. Learn more about the evaluation process here.
And don’t hesitate to connect on social media, where she shares great insights and snackable coaching moments.
About Liz Amenta – The Official Bio
Liz brings over 15 years of experience working across all levels within organizations. She developed a sharp ability to see both the big picture and the fine details. Liz uses this unique perspective to help organizations grow strong leaders, re-engage top talent, and manage change effectively in today’s fast-paced world.
After years of informal coaching, Liz officially left public accounting in 2019. She became a Certified Professional Coach and launched Amenta & Company, a leadership development firm. As workplaces evolve and leadership needs shift, Amenta & Company is built to inspire action. Liz applies critical and creative thinking to solve complex problems and move teams forward.
The managers and executives Liz supports often feel overwhelmed. They are stuck putting out fires and handling constant issues. Many feel unsupported by their teams and torn between pleasing their boss and leading their staff.
Most of her clients want to make a bigger impact at work. Now, with Liz’s help they’re looking to grow, climb the ladder, and define their unique leadership style. Liz uses a proven method called Energy Leadership. It helps leaders identify the default habits and beliefs that have shaped their behavior and outcomes.
Her services include Energy Leadership coaching, custom leadership development and training, and building high-performing teams.
Catch up on Season 2 of Bright Ideas!
Be sure to watch Bright Ideas with Alan Gooch, Bill Graff, Alfred B. White and Michael Kelly today.
Missed Season 1 of Bright Ideas?
Check out Season 1 and meet Mahriah Tucker, Jinita Thakkar, Matthew Porter, Autumn Sullivan, Dianne Wintermute, Josy Martinez, Jonny Torres and Carye Farrell today!
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