George’s story: Coaching brought clarity in a chaotic time of growth

When restaurateur George Georgoudis first met with Vision Coaching’s Jules Michaud, he wasn’t entirely sure what to expect.

George is well known in his community as the warm, welcoming face of Vito’s, a beloved family-run restaurant with locations throughout the Maritime city.

Affectionately known as "Big George," he has built his life and career around serving others – customers, staff, family, and the broader community.

But after decades in the business, George found himself feeling overwhelmed. Juggling the demands of day-to-day operations with ambitious new business ventures, he realized he needed to approach things differently.

'I still want to get better'

"Even though I'm getting up there in age, it's never too late to learn," George says. "I still want to improve. I still want to get better."

When he heard a friend talk about the value of leadership coaching – how it created space to reflect, be challenged, and stay accountable – it stuck with him, and decided to take the plunge.

With Jules, George found not just a coach, but a trusted sounding board. Coaching helped him step back from the intensity of day-to-day operations and focus on the bigger picture.

"I'm sort of the guy who tries to steer the ship. Coaching allowed me to lift my head up and really think about where we were going."

Timing couldn’t have been better. In addition to helping run the busy restaurants, George and his family partners were expanding. 

'Coaching helped me get there'

They took on a market business in the nearby town – a multi-revenue business that includes a gas station, butcher shop, takeout counter, and propane service. Around the same time, they launched a new takeout concept.

"It was a lot. Coaching helped me with time management, focus, and organization. I was able to accomplish more in a shorter period of time, without burning out," George recalls.

"The funny thing is, I had the answers to the questions and challenges I was facing. I just didn't know how to find them. Coaching helped me get there. It was genius."

He describes Jules as kind, trustworthy, and effective – someone who built a real connection and created a space where George could be honest with himself.

New motto: No excuses

One pivotal moment stands out: "I kept making excuses for not hitting my goals. Then it hit me – I was the reason. I was the one getting in my own way. That realization became my new motto: No excuses."

George began delegating more confidently, trusting others to take on more, and finding clarity in his leadership role. He leaned into his natural strengths as a connector and mentor.

"Jules helped me slow down enough to see what was possible. Coaching gave me the push I needed to shift gears."

George’s story is a powerful example of how even seasoned leaders can find new energy and perspective through one-to-one coaching. It’s not about changing who you are – it’s about rediscovering your purpose and leading with intention.

What could coaching do for you? Visit visioncoachinginc.com or contact us to explore how coaching can help you find clarity and lead with greater intention.