About Scott
For most of my life, I had trouble fitting in. But I’ve learned this is a superpower, not a hindrance.
Doing Things Differently
I’ve never been one to fit into a mold, and that’s turned out to be one of my greatest strengths. I’ve learned that authenticity matters more than appearance, and that being real, messy, and curious often connects us more deeply than trying to look polished or perfect.
Growing up as an outsider taught me the value of perspective. It gave me the freedom to experiment with life in ways that others might not, and to see things from angles that don’t always get attention. That same outlook now shapes how I connect with clients: with honesty, humor, depth, and zero pretense.
A Curious Observer
That lifelong sense of curiosity has always helped me notice the world and people’s behaviors - to look beyond what’s being said and wonder why we do the things we do. What makes us tick? What patterns repeat themselves? And why do some of us move through life a little differently than others?
As someone who’s always ticked to the beat of his own clock, I’ve had moments when life unfolded beautifully and others where it took me down the wrong path. But every experience (the easy and the difficult) has offered something worth learning. That willingness to grow through it all is what inspires me to help others do the same.
Nudism, Life Lessons, and Growth
It wasn’t until my mid-twenties, when an adventurous friend duped me into going to a nudist BBQ, that I discovered the joys and wisdom of non-sexual nudity. It started as the most terrifying night of my life, and ended up being the most transformative. That experience opened the door to naturism and the emotional freedom of non-sexual nudity, which became a powerful tool for healing, authenticity, and self-acceptance in my own life.
As a gay man, non-sexual nudity helped me untangle years of body-image issues that fitness alone could never fully reach. Shortly after, I was diagnosed with HIV, and allowing myself to show up with that same sense of intentional exposure gave me the space to seize it as an opportunity for immense reflection and personal growth. I went on to be an HIV advocate - serving on boards, becoming a prominent columnist and occasional public speaker. And this also gave me a better ability to cope with a lifelong struggle with ADHD and how to manage the unique versions of depression and anxiety that can come with this disorder.
Over the years, I have been able to adapt and overcome these challenges by not only utilizing philosophies based in nudism and naturism, but also by working alongside other incredible practitioners who became valued mentors. They’ve taught me that some of the most valuable knowledge extends beyond lectures and textbooks by having been in the trenches ourselves.
Whether you’re navigating challenges or seeking deeper growth, such a personal background and training has given me the tools to walk alongside you - supporting your journey toward authenticity, balance, and self-acceptance… with or without clothes.
“I’ll reveal to you now the magic behind Scott’s life coaching: he’s human! I sought out life coaching but in addition I also received a friend who listens and opens his heart so he can not only guide me, but learn along with me.”
BACKGROUND & CREDENTIALS
Life coaching is an unregulated industry, which makes it an exciting opportunity for coaches to create and sustain their work in new and unique ways. It also means that not all certifications are created equal. That’s why backgrounds matter.
After receiving my undergraduate degree in Sociology from MSU, I spent the bulk of my career as a non-clinical social worker for adults living with Schizophrenia and Bipolar Disorder. Working with these incredible individuals gave me invaluable skills, including the ability to have deeply honest conversations that could move between lighthearted and heavy as needed.
They taught me how to talk about anything and everything with total compassion rather than judgment. Thanks to them (and I genuinely mean it), nothing shocks me.
Coaching
Certified in life coaching by
The Integrative Wellness Academy
Health & Fitness
Certified in health and wellness by
The Nutrition and Fitness Academy
Independent Studies
CBT and DBT
Parts Work
Somatic Work
Sexuality
Because of the ever-changing regulations in nonprofit work, I eventually transitioned into other fields. I worked in the tech industry, ran a highly successful and acclaimed blog for seven years, wrote a well-reviewed memoir, and (for my own fun) even dabbled in bartending and burlesque dancing.
While none of these other jobs may seem as relevant to coaching or counseling, each one led me back to helping people - whether training a helpdesk team, mentoring writers, or simply offering a thoughtful ear. When life keeps pointing arrows in the same direction, it becomes a path worth following, and life coaching turned out to be the work that fits both my passions and my strengths.
Personal Life
I live in Denver, CO with my partner, Luke (a non-nudist as evidenced by our clothed photo). We’ve been together for 18 years and have shared more adventures, laughter, and lessons than we can count. Luke’s a therapist, which conveniently means I always have someone nearby who loves talking about growth as much as I do.
Whenever I’m not working, I love to work out or do yoga, pursue cheap travel, behave like a foodie, and go hiking when the weather is right (preferably au naturel). I also enjoy setting my brain aside to unwind with mindless (but clever) comedies. It helps me recharge, and so do day spas, beaches, and time with friends and family.