The Social Work Pivot

From Frontline Social Work to Full-Time Life Coach: Ellie Iovine’s Journey of Career Change and Growth

Season 1 Episode 21

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Today, I’m joined by Ellie Iovine, a former child protection social worker turned full-time life coach. Ellie spent 10 years in frontline safeguarding, working with children and families in crisis. She remained committed to direct client work, serving as an advanced practitioner for three years, but never felt drawn to management—she thrived in community-based work, making a direct impact.

After three attempts to leave social work, Ellie finally took the leap in December 2024, stepping fully into life coaching. For three years, she balanced social work with building her business, training under Bob Proctor (from the Proctor Gallagher Institute), until she was ready to make the transition. Now, she helps others transform their lives with the same passion and dedication she brought to social work.

In this episode, Ellie shares:

  • The challenges of both practicing and leaving social work
  • How she built her coaching business while working in frontline safeguarding
  • Why life coaching was the right next step and how her social work skills transferred seamlessly
  • Advice for social workers considering a career change

If you’ve ever felt drawn to something new but struggled to make the change, Ellie’s story will inspire you. Let’s dive in!

Links:

Contact Ellie: https://linktr.ee/Elevate_and_Create 

https://proctorgallagherinstitute.com/

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