Anne Macdonald is a coach, consultant, educator, and facilitator who creates spaces where people can slow down, listen more closely, and move forward with clarity and intention. Her work is grounded in the belief that how we are supported, individually and collectively, shapes what becomes possible.
Through Understory 7, Anne works with individuals, families, teams, and organizations to build practical skills around regulation, relational awareness, boundaries, and self trust. Her approach is thoughtful, non directive, and rooted in real life, supporting people through transitions, burnout, leadership, parenting, and growth without prescribing who they should be or how they should change. Whether working 1:1 or facilitating group experiences, she brings steadiness, curiosity, and care, creating environments that feel both well held and deeply human.
Anne’s perspective has been shaped by decades of contemplative practice, a deep respect for human development and family rhythms. Long-standing roots in hospitality and nourishment informs her values of the role of environment, food, and intention in supporting connection and well being. These influences quietly inform how her work is designed and held.
Understory 7 is a coaching program oriented towards the individual client, their needs and goals. You are the only person who can know what’s right for you. Your coach's role is not to tell you who to be or where to go, but to support you in listening more closely to yourself and moving forward with clarity and intention. Our coaching sessions are driven by you. Your coach's job is to empower you to set the tone, direction and depth. In preparation to get the most out of the work, I encourage you to practice letting go of self-judgement and focus on being open and curious about what you feel and want. A coach will show up to support you as you stretch into new territory. You don’t need to arrive with answers but showing up honestly will serve your goals 1000-fold.
What’s the big secret at the core of coaching? You already have what you need to reach your goals. These skills are innate in all of us. The wisdom, capacity, and strength you’re seeking aren’t something to create they’re something you will uncover and learn to trust.
Understory 7 coaching conversations are a supportive space that is thoughtful, and free of judgment. You’re invited to come exactly as you are. Your coach will show up to trust your process, and trust that what you bring into the room is precisely where the work will take place.