We are excited to share with you the next interview in our “Beyond the Page” series featuring Cate Sabatini.
Cate Sabatini’s journey from leadership coach to climate advocate began with a moment of clarity in 2019 that was quickly followed by… nothing. Despite a clear calling to support climate leaders, Cate found herself stuck in a cycle of research, doubt, and inaction that many sustainability-minded individuals will recognize. What keeps us from taking meaningful steps toward climate action, even when we deeply care?
For Cate, the paralysis stemmed from a familiar fear: not knowing enough. “I didn’t have the science behind it. I didn’t really know if it would work,” she explains about her climate initiatives. “I felt like I had to keep knowing more before I could share the idea with anybody that could actually help me make a difference.” This expertise trap kept her spinning in circles for years, creating a growing disconnect between her stated values and her actions—especially noticeable when speaking with her children about environmental issues.
The breakthrough came when Cate realized that as a coach, her role isn’t to be the subject matter expert on climate science. Her expertise in asking powerful questions and supporting leaders through complex challenges was exactly what sustainability champions needed. “If I can contribute my coaching skills to help leaders in climate make their best contributions, then that’s my role,” she shares. This shift in perspective, coupled with working collaboratively instead of alone, finally moved her from paralysis to progress.
Cate’s message for fellow coaches and climate-conscious individuals is refreshingly practical: make sustainability fun, take imperfect actions, and celebrate what you’re already doing. Whether it’s using labeled jars for bulk shopping, bringing reusable bags to the grocery store, or simply acknowledging your efforts, finding joy in the journey makes climate action sustainable for the long haul. As she puts it, “The earth doesn’t have time for us to wait to have all the knowledge we need”—so start where you are, with what you have, today.
In this episode, I talk with Cate about her article published in our March 2025 issue.
Know of an author we should interview? Send me an email to podcast@choice-online.com
Let’s continue the conversation by connecting with your colleagues on our Facebook page
If you are not already, click here to subscribe to choice magazine.
