Welcome!

The WHY!

Hello Everyone! My name is Bella Baia. I am a current water polo coach and writer in the making. I am a former Women’s Water Polo Student-Athlete from UCLA where I earned my undergraduate degree in Sociology. I am also a graduate of UCLA’s Transformative Coaching & Leadership (TCL) Master’s Program in the department of Education. I have a deep passion for Leadership & Writing… hence, I have now made my way to the Substack community. After finishing my athletic career with a disappointing hip injury that resulted in surgery, I had the opportunity to fully immerse myself in school. It was in UCLA’s Master’s program that I was fortunate enough to learn from renowned leaders, coaches and professors. My mentor, Yogi Roth, has inspired me to follow my dreams and join the Substack community to share my story. My journey is not uncommon, but it is unique. It is uniquely my own. I hope that this page allows you to learn more about my transformational coaching philosophy aided by analyzing acclaimed coaches. In addition, I will be discussing real-life obstacles that prohibit individuals from following their dreams. Lastly, I will also share snippets of my upcoming book with you. I hope you enjoy the ride!

1. Leadership Development & Books

I was encouraged to join the Substack community to discuss a topic that is tossed around freely, yet not accepted by all: Transformational Coaching. At the core, coaching is leadership. Leadership is seen in all areas of life… from parenting to sports coaching to business relationships. Yet, people still fail to recognize the importance of having ‘good’ leadership. But, what is defined as ‘good’ leadership? This page isn’t going to give you the solutions. I am not going to write a direct formula. But, through analyzing my personal experiences, the knowledge I’ve obtained during my time in the UCLA TCL Master’s program, and eventually, sharing my findings in my upcoming book, I will provide insight on how we can all develop as leaders (and as people) in the various facets of life. And - yes - if you’re reading this page, you ARE a leader. The reality is that every person is a leader, whether you know it or not. I hope you can use this information to analyze your own experiences and continue to grow in your personal endeavors.

2. Authenticity, Individuality & Empowerment

There are so many standards, stereotypes and preconceived notions created by society. I want to create a community that is centered around authenticity, individuality & empowerment. Authenticity serves as the foundation for human connection. It is through our unique differences that we are able bring diversity and creativity to the world. By being authentic, individuals can embrace their individuality. Our similarities are not what make us special. It is our differences. Now, accepting our individuality is not an easy task. But, once individuals recognize their authentic qualities and embrace individuality, it paves the way for successful and transformational leadership. When a person displays authenticity and individuality, it promotes an environment that empowers others to uncover and acquire their own uniqueness.

Where authenticity and individuality intersect, rests the foundation of transformational coaching… and, eventually, empowerment to the next generation.

3. The Game Plan

The Transformational Coaches that I’ll examine are the following:

• John Wooden

• Pat Summitt

• Pete Carroll

After I dissect, compare, and contrast these renowned coaches, I will present my own transformational coaching philosophy that guides me in my current leadership roles.

I will then tackle popular discussion topics that prevent leaders from being transformational:

• Transactional vs. Transformational

• Fear of Failure

• Social Media

• How do we measure success?

• Managing Expectations

These categories are a few of the many topics I would like to share my thoughts and opinions about in relation to today’s modern society.

Lastly, I will be publishing my first book in the next few months. It was during my time in the UCLA TCL Master’s program that I coined a term, which has guided my writing of my first book. I will explain the term and my definition while discussing how my experiences have shaped me into the person I am today.

I hope you’ll take a look at it! ; )

4. Subscriptions & Timeline

I will post bi-weekly on Fridays. For now, my content is free for subscribers. Don’t worry, I’ll let you know when a fee is added! :)

5. Connect With Me.

Every day, I am inspired by the people around me. If you are intrigued by any of my writing pieces and have ideas for upcoming posts, please feel free to connect with me.

My email is: Bella@bellabaia.co

I look forward to hearing from you soon. Stay being YOU! There is truly no one better.

Thanks for reading! :)