We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Fred Gatty. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Fred below.

Hi Fred, thanks for joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

Imagine this: three young kids huddled over a laptop, navigating the landscape of PowerPoint. That was my cousins and me three decades ago dreaming up a fictional company we called Gatts Consulting. It was just a youthful experiment, a fleeting moment of creativity that we quickly moved on from—or so I thought.

Fast forward to early 2023, and the name Gatts Consulting resurfaced from my memory, tugging at something deep within me like I was experiencing déjà vu. Suddenly, it all clicked. That teenage experiment wasn’t just child’s play but a glimpse into my future — the alignment between that youthful curiosity and my present passion.

For years, coaching and leadership development have been my driving force. But what solidified my conviction was the realization that Gatts Consulting wasn’t just another consulting firm. It was an embodiment of my life’s work, a culmination of years spent honing my skills and refining my approach.

So, when the opportunity presented itself, I didn’t hesitate. I dove headfirst into building Gatts Consulting, fueled by the knowledge that I was finally stepping into my purpose. And as I look back on that teenage experiment, I can’t help but marvel at the serendipity of it all. Sometimes, the seeds of our future are planted in the most unexpected places.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

First and foremost, I am a husband, and dad to two adorable children. Professionally, I am an Organizational leadership consultant, coach, and learning enthusiast dedicated to helping organizations achieve success by optimizing their human capital potential. I am the Founder and Principal Consultant of Gatts Consulting, a boutique firm that specializes in leadership coaching, change management, team performance optimization, and customer experience training. 

My entry into the industry wasn’t a conventional one. Rather than following a traditional career trajectory, I carved out my path, drawing from diverse experiences and insights from various walks of life. This eclectic background has been instrumental in shaping my approach, allowing me to offer a fresh perspective that transcends the confines of traditional consulting.

At the heart of Gatts Consulting lies a simple yet profound mission: to empower individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. Whether through one-on-one coaching sessions, immersive workshops, or tailored consulting services, I strive to create transformative experiences that catalyze growth and drive meaningful change. One of the key pillars of my practice is a deep-rooted belief in the power of authenticity and empathy.

Ultimately, I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know this: I’m not just in the business of coaching and consulting; I’m in the business of transformation. Whether you seek to unlock your full potential as a leader, cultivate a more cohesive team culture, or chart a course toward long-term success, I’m here to guide and support you every step of the way. Together, we can turn your aspirations into reality and rewrite the script of your success story.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Yes, this was a 50-mile bike I participated in last year. The ride was not just a physical challenge but a test of endurance, determination, and sheer willpower. As I strapped on my helmet and mounted my trusty bike, I knew the road ahead would be long and arduous, but I was ready to face it head-on.

The first few miles flew by in a blur of adrenaline and excitement. The sun was shining, the air was crisp, and the promise of adventure beckoned on the horizon. But as the miles stretched on, the reality of the journey began to set in.

The terrain grew increasingly rugged, with steep inclines and treacherous descents testing my mettle at every turn. My legs burned with exertion, and sweat trickled down my brow, but still, I pressed on.

There were moments when doubt crept in when every fiber of my being screamed for me to give up and turn back. But with each pedal stroke, I silenced the voice of doubt and embraced the challenge before me.

Hour after hour, I battled fatigue and pushed through the pain, drawing strength from the rhythm of my breath and the steady beat of my heart. And then, finally, after five grueling hours of relentless perseverance, I crossed the finish line. Exhausted but elated, I reveled in the sense of accomplishment that washed over me. At that moment, I knew that I had not just conquered a physical challenge; I had overcome my limitations and emerged stronger than ever before.

Completing the 50-mile bike ride was more than just a feat of endurance; it was a testament to the power of resilience and the indomitable spirit within each of us. Reflecting on that unforgettable journey, I am reminded that no obstacle is insurmountable when we summon the courage to face it with unwavering determination.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Absolutely. As an avid reader and lifelong learner, I have found inspiration in various self-help books that have significantly influenced my management and entrepreneurial thinking and helped me navigate life.

Among the books that have left a lasting impression on me are timeless classics like Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson, which taught me the importance of adaptability and embracing change in the face of uncertainty. The Power of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale instilled in me a belief in the transformative power of optimism and resilience. Tough Times Never Last, but Tough People Do by Robert H. Schuller reminded me of the inherent strength within each of us to overcome adversity.

Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers challenged me to confront my fears head-on and embrace the discomfort of stepping outside my comfort zone. Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl provided profound insights into the human condition and the pursuit of purpose in the face of suffering.

Finally, the support of my family. I could not do this without them.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.gattsconsulting.com
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/fredgatty

Image Credits
Christian Del Rosario (2019)