Hi! I’m Gary Lougher, founder of 2nd Ascent Coaching, where I help individuals reconnect with their purpose, resilience, and authentic selves. I also partner with organizations to create cultures of well-being, resilience, and purpose by integrating conversational leadership and holistic health practices into their work environments. My work is built on integrity, a deep understanding of human behavior and potential, and a commitment to fostering growth through meaningful connections with self, others and nature.

A Multifaceted Approach to Coaching

At 2nd Ascent, my offerings are as diverse as the clients I serve. Whether you’re an individual seeking personal transformation, a leader striving to inspire your team, or a parent nurturing the next generation of resilient, compassionate kids, I’m here to guide you along your journey.

A Philosophy Rooted in Connection

My coaching philosophy is deeply influenced by my own journey of growth and transformation. I believe that reconnection—whether to ourselves, to each other, or to nature—is the key to living a fulfilling and meaningful life. This belief underpins every program I offer, whether I’m coaching leaders, parents, or individuals seeking to heal from trauma.

Rewilding Your Soul

Our fast-paced, digitally saturated world often pulls us away from our true selves. In the Rewilding Your Soul program, I help clients break free from toxic cultural norms and realign with their natural rhythms. By integrating nature immersion, trauma recovery, and deep health principles, this 90-day coaching journey supports those experiencing burnout to rediscover joy, authenticity, and balance.

Trauma Recovery Coaching

As a trauma recovery coach, I work with clients to understand the lasting impacts of trauma and how to navigate the journey toward healing. My approach is rooted in compassion and science, blending education about trauma with actionable steps to restore a sense of safety and empowerment. By addressing existential and evolutionary mismatches, I guide clients toward reconnecting with their bodies, minds, and environments.

Optimal Leadership

Leadership isn’t just about achieving results—it’s about creating cultures of growth, empathy, and sustainable success. With my Optimal Leadership program, I help leaders and organizations cultivate growth cultures that empower individuals and teams to thrive. Through conversational leadership techniques, I guide clients to develop growth mindsets, build trust, and foster innovation in ways that honor people, purpose, and profits.

Heroic Kids

Empowering children to embrace their unique strengths and build resilience is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. Through the Heroic Kids program, I help parents and kids develop the skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges with courage and creativity. Together, we foster strong foundations for emotional intelligence, leadership, and resilience.

Why I Do What I Do

I know firsthand what it’s like to feel disconnected from your purpose and potential. It’s why I’ve dedicated my life to helping others rediscover theirs. Through the programs at 2nd Ascent, my goal is to equip you with the tools, support, and encouragement you need to ascend to your next level, whatever that looks like for you.