DR JIM POLK
Expat Life and Career Coach
Neuropsychologist
Finding My Way Through Every Setback
I grew up in a working-class family where the future seemed set in stone: get a job in the local auto factory and forget about big dreams. But deep down, I knew there had to be more. My calling, though I couldn’t name it yet, was to challenge that limited narrative—and help others do the same.
I’d eventually become the first in my extended family to graduate from college—and even earn a doctorate. Nobody saw that coming. But my path there wasn’t easy. It was forged through crises that could have stopped me but instead helped me discover my “why.” But I'm getting ahead of myself, let's back up.
My First Best Hope Was Running
Everything changed in high school when I discovered my passion for running. This is me in 1971, a high school freshman just 14-years-old, winning the 880 yard run just 4 seconds away from the state high school record and just 5 seconds shy of the NCAA record.
My coach believed I could break the state record and earn a college scholarship. Then life threw me a curveball: a car accident shattered my leg and, I thought, my future. Weeks in the hospital turned into 7 months in a cast, but my coach never lost faith. He told me, “There’s always another way.”
With the unwavering support of a brilliant physical therapist, I clawed my way back to running. Even though my competitive days were over, I’m still logging miles—now in my 60s.
Next, I Reinvented Myself — Again
With running out of the question, I set my sights on the Air Force to fund college. I became a private pilot, ready to serve. That dream also crashed when my vision, damaged from the accident, disqualified me from military flight service.
This new setback could have derailed me, but my flight instructor who had lost a leg in Vietnam taught me a lesson I’d never forget: "don’t let circumstances define your destiny. "
There’s always another path forward—if you’re willing to seek it.
These Setbacks Didn't Stop Me — They Shaped Me
With each hurdle, I found a guide. And in doing so, I discovered my “why”— to stand in the gap for people facing their own turning points, just like my coaches did for me. Over the past 44 years, I’ve dedicated my career to helping individuals conquer self-imposed limits and thrive in their personal and professional lives — I know how to get you to where you want to be.
Since 2009, I’ve focused on working with expatriates—diplomats, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, families, and everyday folks building lives abroad and in Medellín. Whether it’s adapting to a new culture, starting life over, or advancing your career, I’ll help you rise above the stress to a place of confidence and success.
The coaching field is broad, and not all coaches have formal training. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, am a Neuropsychologist and Certified NLP Practitioner and have over 44 years of experience with thousands of coaching clients across the globe. This is a huge benefit to you, as I understand the challenges of uprooting your life—and have the training and experience to transform those challenges into opportunities.
"Whether it's your personal life or career, I have what it takes to help you thrive."
Today, Medellín feels like home. I’ve overcome my own cultural and personal hurdles to build a life I love here. Now it’s your turn. Your better life starts with one conversation—let’s make it happen.
Get Started with a free, 20-minute session today.
Medellín's Botanical Garden with My Wife
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