How Losing a Father and a Job on the Same Day Led to a Resilience Coaching Career — The Teaching Journeys Podcast

What happens when you lose your father and your job on the same day?

For Thomas Scaria, resilience coach and founder of Steps Along the Way, April 6, 2020 was that day — and it became the catalyst for a complete life transformation.

In this powerful episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts sits down with Thomas to explore how grief, loss, and a relentless pursuit of purpose can forge unshakeable resilience. From running five solo marathons during COVID lockdown to raise money for cancer research, to nearly finishing an ultra-marathon in South Africa with a bloody, dislocated kneecap — Thomas's story is a masterclass in what the human spirit is capable of.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The PACE framework (Patience, Accountability, Commitment, Excellence) and how to apply it to your career and personal life
Why resilience is a muscle — and how anyone can build it
How the Marathon Mindset Method helps professionals move from existing through life to living it
The difference between managing people and truly developing them as leaders
Why connecting to a cause greater than yourself is the ultimate performance fuel

Thomas also shares insights from his book Resilience + Rise, his coaching practice for program and project managers, and his upcoming Olympic triathlon — which he's preparing for despite learning to swim less than a year ago.

Whether you're navigating career loss, grief, or simply searching for your next chapter, this conversation will remind you: don't just exist through life — live it.

Thomas Bio and Contact Information

Based in Vancouver, BC, Thomas Scaria is a Resilience & Accountability Coach and the Founder of Steps Along The Way, a personal development initiative that provides coaching services aimed at fostering growth mindsets for program and project managers. His expertise lies in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with resilience while offering them the tools for accountability to reach their personal and professional goals. Through his innovative approach—The Marathon Mindset Method—Thomas has made significant strides in transforming how professionals perceive success, fulfillment, and resilience in their careers. Discover more about his unique coaching method here. Discover more here.

As an advocate for personal growth, Thomas believes in the power of vulnerability and accountability in fostering meaningful change:

“Growth happens when we embrace vulnerability and take responsibility for our journey,” Thomas shares.

Connect with Thomas Scaria:

🌐 Website: resiliencerisemindset.com

💼 LinkedIn: Thomas Scaria

🎙️ Podcast: Resilience Plus Rise (Spotify & YouTube)

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To connect with Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com