Partner Story: Peta Main
Personal History
Where were you born?
I am proudly South Australian - Adelaide is home.
What did you do before becoming a consultant?
I spent several adventurous years as a tour manager, guiding groups across the USA and Mexico.
Interesting fact about you
I am neurodivergent, and it shapes both my curiosity and my empathy.
What do you enjoy in your personal time?
You will usually find me outdoors - hiking coastal trails, swimming laps, cycling, or indoors with a sewing project.
Causes you are passionate about
Championing neurodivergent communities, especially people with ADHD and Autism - drives much of my advocacy.
What inspired you to become a [coach/consultant/trainer/facilitator], and can you share one unforgettable moment from your early days?
A lifelong learner, I realised early on that sharing knowledge lights me up. My very first facilitation in 2008 was an Emotional Intelligence session for 10 construction workers. The subject was considered “too soft” at the time. However, their genuine engagement (and requests for more) confirmed that well‑crafted learning can shift even the toughest rooms.
What kind of work do you focus on and makes you unique in your profession/what’s your superpower?
Deep, curious listening. It lets me pinpoint the real communication roadblocks beneath the surface and design practical strategies for change.
If you had to describe your [coaching/facilitation/consulting] style or approach to leadership & organisational development with a metaphor or analogy, what would it be and why?
Think of me as a trail guide: direct, encouraging, and determined to make the journey memorable. I invite participants to use every sense, discover new paths, and enjoy the trek.
How do you stay inspired and continuously improve your own knowledge, coaching or facilitation skills?
I feed my inner nerd with bite‑sized research, podcasts, and YouTube deep dives, then translate fresh ideas into tools clients can use tomorrow.
What you love about the work?
The flexibility, the constant learning and that electric “aha” moment when a client’s perspective snaps into focus.
Common misconception from HR / L&D
“One half‑day workshop will change behaviour.” If only! Real transformation needs deliberate practice, feedback, and reinforcement - not fairy dust.
Dream leadership program - non‑negotiable elements
The Iceberg Model of human behaviour to reveal unseen drivers.
Honey & Mumford’s learning styles so leaders design development that actually sticks.
Most unconventional (yet game‑changing) advice
When someone says money is their only motivator, I jokingly ask, “Then why not start a meth lab like in Breaking Bad?” The shock sparks reflection on ethics, values, and purpose clarifying what truly brings them to work each day.