About Craig Nathanson

Craig Nathanson - The Vocational Coach™

Craig Nathanson was very successful in corporate America for over 25 years doing all the right things and following all the right steps. Yet, he was empty inside, good at things he didn’t care deeply about. After several layoffs and a brief but thought provoking bit of introspect, he decided to finally follow his perfect vocational day of teaching, coaching mid-life adults and writing combined with daily running and quality time with family. As a result life has changed. The change is much more; however, than increased family time and more possibilities to do what he wants to do each day. It is deeper. He has a renewed sense of the world around him and in his local community. People seem more interesting, there is so much to learn, and the air is fresher to breathe.

Craig Nathanson is The Vocational Coach™ , an internationally known author, workshop leader, speaker, college lecturer and coach for mid-life adults dedicated to guiding individuals to discover and experience their vocational passions in mid-life and make an income at doing what they love! Craig offers private coaching via phone, office, retreats and workshops worldwide. Craig’s doctoral research has focused around “the experience of vocational passion in mid-life.’’

Craig is the author of the books, Don’t JUST retire and die : a new approach to your life and work after 40, P is for Perfect: Your Perfect Vocational Day and How to discover and live your passion 365 days a year which Craig calls a workshop in a box. Craig has also produced a series of CD’s including the popular ‘’How to make your mid-life a crusade and not a crisis ’’ and over 25 other CD’s from his bi-monthly tele-class series,’’ How to make meaning and money in mid-life’’, which has different topics and guests discussing their own transitions. Craig has also been publishing since 2001 a regular E-Zine newsletter aimed at those over 40. This is a free internet based newsletter which is published internationally helping to provide inspiration and coaching to many who are seeking to do more of what they love in mid-life while at the same time making the income they require.

Craig 's newest project, The Vocational Coach Booklet series includes the booklets ''Now that I am in college, what do I do with my life'' is aimed at college age students just starting out. ‘’ 30 days of vocational passion’’ is aimed at those in mid-life and ‘’Everybody needs a bearhug’’- kids advice for their parents 365 days a year is targeted at parents of younger children.

Craig is on the faculty at Cal State East Bay, Keller School of Management and Corinthian Colleges teaching both traditional and on-line courses. Craig’s monthly articles now appear at over 1000 business industry web sites as the career expert for Job Target. Craig has been an executive, senior manager, trainer, counselor and internal consultant for over 30 years working in large Fortune 100 companies as well as several internet start-ups, one of which he was an original founder. Since 2001 Craig has focused on building a private speaking and coaching practice targeted at those over 40. Craig is a Ph.D candidate in Transpersonal Counseling.

Craig is also working on his fourth book, due out in late 2009 called, ‘’The NEW manager’’ new management models for new times. In additional to his doctoral research Craig holds two masters’ degrees in Telecommunications Management and Human Development and an undergraduate degree in Human Relations and Organizational Behavior. Craig is a past member of the Association of Humanistic Psychology, American Management Association, The National Association For Small Book Publishers and the American Society of University Professors. Craig describes himself as a writer, teacher, mid-life coach, speaker, researcher, father, husband and active runner. Craig was one of three Americans selected to speak at the 1996 national quality conference in San Salvador to focus on the theme “Rebuilding Human Resources through Quality.”

Craig spent the early summer of 2004 and 2005 teaching and speaking in Russia as part of his mission to spread his message worldwide. Craig has delivered workshops and individual coaching to individuals seeking vocational change and growth at mid-life. Craig describes his purpose in life to be spirited, compelled, and passionate, enabling those who cross his path to make a difference! Craig lives in Petaluma, California.

What some of Craig's clients have said about Craig's message!

Craig, I cannot tell you how many people LOVED your presentation. You are a dynamic speaker and so articulate; friendly and really good putting humor into the talk. Plus, you made a lot of people think!
Thanks again Craig. You’re one of few that make a difference

-Terry Thomas- International Association of Administrative Professionals- California

P Is For Perfect is a fantastic book. You have to admire Craig Nathanson's courage for sharing his story and his ideas for others to follow.

- Yanfang Yang- China

Craig, The workshop that you gave to General Motors Baltimore Women in Manufacturing Organization was well received by the attendees. In speaking with each of the women after the event, it was apparent that everyone brought something very personal away from the workshop that they hadn't considered previously. It was important for our group to actually take some time to reflect on what our vision of our perfect vocational day could be. Thank you for your time and insight!

-Kate Williams, Chair-TMIE
General Motors-Powertrain- Baltimore Operations

I've been working with Craig weekly for several months. I am continually impressed with how intuitive Craig is. He always has my best interests and objectives in mind, even when I veer off track. I've read the books ("P is for Perfect," "Zen and the Art of Making a Living," "What Color is Your Parachute," "Career Guide for Creative and Unconventional People," etc.) and I've met with other career counselors. I've gone to University career centers, spent hours online, and done work on my own trying find a career that combines my passions, talents, and experience. I can honestly say, I've never been so on-track. I feel incredibly lucky to have found Craig. I profit from his career and interpersonal Wisdom. My sessions with Craig are absolutely the best investment I have made in my vocational life. Anyone who is not satisfied with their vocational life WILL benefit Immensely from working with Craig.

-Lance A. Wexler, from California

Dear Craig, Thanks for your efforts. You were a great radio guest.

Ron Visconti- KNEW Radio- Job Talk

Thanks so much for giving your talk to us. Very inspirational!!

Ginger Klasnich- Director, Alameda and Contra Costa county development

Craig Nathanson combines intellect, creativity, caring for people, research and humor in a unique synthesis that makes a positive, special and inspiring difference to all those with whom he works.

-Dr. Jeremy J. Shapiro, NewYork City, professor and author, "Mindful Inquiry"

back to top