Fostering Mental Fitness | Meet Stephanie High
We had the pleasure of connecting with Stephanie, and we're excited to share our conversation with her below.
What inspired you to start your journey or business?
Kaizen Catalyst was born out of a deep desire to merge my expertise in performance psychology with my passion for helping individuals and organizations thrive. My professional journey has taken me across continents, exposing me to diverse cultures and challenges. These experiences highlighted the universal need for mental performance tools to navigate stress, achieve goals, and foster resilience. I wanted to create a space where people could access scientifically grounded, actionable strategies to unlock their potential, and that vision became Kaizen Catalyst.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
The “aha” moment came during my time working with student-athletes. Seeing their transformation when they understood how to leverage mental skills like visualization and mindfulness was profoundly rewarding. I realized that these tools weren’t just for athletes but could benefit anyone facing high-pressure situations, from entrepreneurs to expats. That realization sparked the broader mission of Kaizen Catalyst: making mental performance accessible to all.
What do you love most about what you do?
Building a business grounded in mental performance required overcoming several challenges. One significant hurdle was demystifying the concept of mental fitness and differentiating it from traditional coaching. By emphasizing my scientific background and leveraging my master’s in performance psychology, I was able to establish credibility. Additionally, balancing this venture with my studies and other professional responsibilities has been challenging. Prioritizing time management and leaning on my support network has been essential to overcoming these obstacles.
How does your work or passion contribute to the Pacific Northwest community?
Kaizen Catalyst supports the Pacific Northwest community by offering mental performance coaching tailored to diverse needs, from expats acclimating to new cultures to professionals seeking peak performance. By providing workshops and coaching sessions, I aim to foster resilience and adaptability within the community. Additionally, I collaborate with schools and organizations to offer free or low-cost services, ensuring accessibility for all.
What inspires or motivates you every day?
Knowing that my work has the potential to change lives keeps me motivated. I’m inspired by the stories of clients who’ve overcome incredible odds and by the belief that fostering mental fitness can create ripples of positive change in communities. I’m also driven by the pursuit of knowledge, which is why I continue my studies to stay at the forefront of performance psychology.
What advice would you give to someone looking to follow a similar path?
First and foremost, ground yourself in a strong educational foundation. Performance psychology is as much about science as it is about empathy. Be prepared to continuously learn and adapt. Also, lean into your own experiences to connect with clients but ensure your approach remains evidence-based. Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of networking and finding mentors to guide your journey.
What are your goals for the next 1-3 years?
In the next few years, I aim to expand Kaizen Catalyst’s reach by developing additional self-guided resources, such as video series and online workshops. Another key goal is earning my Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential to further enhance my credibility and impact. I also plan to deepen my involvement with schools and local organizations to bring mental performance coaching to underserved populations.
What’s something people might not know about you?
I’m deeply committed to creating a more connected world through global citizenship. My experiences living abroad have shaped my perspective and reinforced my belief in the power of cultural exchange to foster empathy and innovation.
What’s your favorite way to relax or recharge in the Pacific Northwest?
I love taking quiet walks along the trails in Spokane’s many parks, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility. It’s a simple yet powerful way to clear my mind and recharge.
What’s a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest that everyone should know about?
The Finch Arboretum in Spokane is a treasure trove of natural beauty and inspiration. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and creative thinking, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
How can people find you?
Website: kaizencatalyst.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaizencatalyst
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaizencatalyst
