Coaching That Turns Insight Into Action

Yumi Wilson, journalist and coach, photographed in natural light with a warm, approachable expression.

Hi, I’m Yumi Wilson

I coach journalists, communicators, and writers who are navigating career transitions, creative blocks, or leadership challenges. Most of my clients come to me knowing exactly what they don’t want anymore — but not yet sure what’s next. Together, we uncover what truly matters, rebuild confidence, and design a path forward that actually fits.

I found coaching the same way many of my clients do — standing at a crossroads, juggling too many versions of myself. Working with a coach helped me clear the noise, make bold choices, and take real action: launching my podcast, buying the car I’d been putting off, and enrolling in coach training at McLaren Coaching. That experience reminded me how powerful it is to have someone who listens deeply, challenges assumptions, and helps turn insight into movement.

Before launching my coaching practice, I spent years in journalism — as a reporter, editor, and deputy readers’ representative at the San Francisco Chronicle, and earlier with The Associated Press in Los Angeles. I hold an MFA in Creative Nonfiction and teach at San Francisco State, where I’m continually inspired by the next generation of storytellers. Coaching allows me to work more personally — helping people rewrite their own stories and lead their next chapters with clarity and conviction.

I’m trained by McLaren Coaching and currently expanding my work through advanced studies in language and mindset tools rooted in communication science. I also integrate simple breathwork techniques to help clients stay calm and focused as they grow and change.

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“If you’re standing at a crossroads and know something needs to change, but you’re not sure where to start, I’m here to help.”

Career
Highlights

    • Former reporter for The Associated Press and the San Francisco Chronicle, and former deputy readers’ representative (ombudsperson) at the Chronicle.

    • Managed global communications at LinkedIn and coached professionals on brand visibility, audience engagement, and career advancement strategies.

    • Produced and edited news content for Yahoo, contributing to fast-paced digital journalism and editorial quality.

    • Coached nonprofit leaders on personal branding and op-ed writing, enhancing their confidence and public impact through the Women’s Media Center.

    • Author of The Social Media Journalist Handbook (Routledge) and co-author of Writing and Reporting the News for the 21st Century (BEA Textbook Award).

    • Fulbright Research Scholar in Japan (2001) and current Fulbright Specialist teaching AI-powered journalism in Laos.

    • Recently featured in Storybench for my ONA25 session on AI and journalism.

    • Bylines in outlets such as The Washington Post and SFGate.

Awards & Affiliations

Real Results, Real Stories

  • Testimonial from Nicole

    I’ve been attending the Women’s Circle for a couple of months now, and it’s truly been such a grounding and supportive experience. Yumi and Jamie have both created a space where I feel safe to show up exactly as I am, no matter how my week has been.

    Yumi has especially helped me learn how to separate my true voice from the sabotaging or self-critical ones. She’s given me practical tools—like journaling and writing declarations—that make it easier to release stress and stay focused on my goals. Her patience and guidance shine through in every session, and her visualizations have been incredibly powerful. There were days when I came in feeling overwhelmed, but through her visualizations and group work, I left feeling centered and calm.

    Jamie is amazing at helping us ground ourselves at the beginning and end of each circle. Together, Yumi and Jamie complement each other beautifully—they provide thoughtful feedback, compassionate support, and truly embody what it means to hold space for others.

    There have been times when I didn’t feel up to joining, but by the end of the circle, I was always so grateful I did. The grounding, the anchoring techniques, and the community they’ve built have helped me reconnect with myself and move through whatever was weighing on me.

    I’m deeply thankful for both Yumi and Jamie and really look forward to continuing with the Women’s Circle.

  • Testimonial from Samantha

    Working with Coach Yumi Wilson has been a truly meaningful and rewarding experience. Over the past year, she has supported me in so many ways — from helping me navigate my career in media and broadcasting, offering thoughtful guidance on my podcast, to refining my résumé and professional profile, preparing for opportunities, and clarifying my long-term goals.

    Not only is Yumi an exceptional coach, but she truly helps you connect with the best version of yourself — and bring that out in your work. She inspires you to stay committed and not give up, even when life feels challenging.

    Yumi’s coaching helped me rebuild confidence and regain focus after difficult experiences in my field. She guided me to prioritize what truly matters, stay organized, and approach my work with clarity and purpose.

    What I appreciate most is how Yumi combines empathy with practical, strategic insight. She creates a supportive and motivating space that encourages real growth and accountability.

    I’m deeply grateful for her guidance and highly recommendCoach Yumi Wilson to anyone ready to take the next step in their career or personal development.

    — Samantha

  • Testimonial from Palak

    Working with Yumi was truly transformative. In just four coaching sessions, her thoughtful questions and gentle guidance helped me uncover the limiting beliefs and fears that were quietly holding me back from pursuing my goals with confidence. What makes her truly exceptional is that she blends deep emotional insight with practical strategy, she not only helped me rewrite my narrative around my own confidence, but also provided clear, hands-on guidance for strengthening my resume, refining my cover letter, and positioning myself effectively in my job search. Yumi holds space with compassion while also pushing you toward your highest potential. I left each session feeling seen, grounded, and more capable than before.

    — Palak

  • Testimonial from Chris

    “Working with Yumi changed the way I look at work, careers and myself. She’s warm, engaging and wise. Her patient coaching helped me realize the path I should be on, and her feedback on resumes and cover letters delivered results in the form of callbacks and interviews. 

    She was always supportive and enthusiastic, but also realistic and not shy about getting down to the foundations of how one can progress professionally. I miss our sessions, to be honest, and look forward to sharing success stories with her in the future.” 

    — Chris