Teresa Peters - Accelerator Coaching Ltd
What were your career ambitions growing up?
I had a few big dreams! I wanted to be a GP – I’ve always felt called to help people feel better and be happy. I also sang and performed throughout my teenage years and assumed I’d follow that path. My mum had schizophrenia, and I spent a lot of time visiting her in hospital, often singing with the patients to lift their spirits. Those early experiences sparked my desire to connect with people.
Tell us about your current role.
I’m the founder of Accelerator Coaching Ltd and a senior EMCC-accredited executive and team coach. I work across sectors – from the NHS and Yorkshire County Cricket Club to hospitality, and local businesses. I deliver Emotional Capital Reports (ECRs), which assess 10 key leadership competencies, 360’s, alongside DISC profiling. I’m known for my “yellow brand” energy – bringing clarity, resilience, and positivity to every space I step into.
What is your proudest business achievement?
We paused our publishing company (we printed 32 recipe books over 10 years) to focus on Accelerator Coaching – and I haven’t looked back. Delivering a live workshop at the Northeast Expo with my son in the audience was incredibly special. Overall, I’m proud to have built something true to who I am, that gives me financial freedom, while being present for my kids and keeping active.
How has your industry changed in the last decade?
Coaching is more human than ever. Emotional awareness and self-management are now essential, especially with the rise of AI. Leaders don’t just need strategies – they need space to think and tools to adapt. Team coaching has become increasingly important too, particularly in hybrid work settings. My work focuses on creating safe, open spaces where people can connect, grow, and lead authentically.
What are you currently working on?
I’m coaching across the UK CDFI network and co-delivering a leadership programme for over 200 oil and gas leaders with Teesside University International Business School. I continue to support the team at Headlam Hall, a family-run hotel, and have recently started working with Yorkshire County Cricket Club. With new contracts in the pipeline, I’ll soon be expanding my team of associates to meet demand.
Tell us about the clients you work with.
One day I’m coaching a spa manager stepping into leadership, another I’m supporting a CEO through complex board-level decisions. I also work with entrepreneurs energising new leadership teams.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
“Find out who you are and do it on purpose.” Thanks Dolly Parton!
What has been your biggest challenge?
Holding space for others means I have to be intentional about creating space for myself. I absorb a lot emotionally and show up fully for my clients, so protecting my energy is essential.
Who are your heroes?
Annie Lee, my coach, helped me believe in myself during lockdown when I launched this next chapter. Tina Turner inspires me with her strength and authenticity. And my husband Duncy keeps me grounded – he’s calm, kind, and reminds me not to worry what others think. He’s my anchor when life gets noisy.
How do you unwind?
I run (currently training for Kilimanjaro!), sing around the piano with my teens, and walk with Duncy and our Border Collie. One of my “50 things before I’m 50” is to travel for work in my campervan – it’s my version of freedom, nature, and space to decompress. I love it.
Favourite book or boxset?
I’m not into fiction – I’m drawn to real stories and personal development. If it helps people grow, I’m all in.
acceleratorcoaching.co.uk