The coach who wasn’t

Over the past week, Vietnam’s social media has been buzzing with the story of a so-called “successful coach.” At first glance, you might expect this to be a story of growth, discipline, or achievement. Ironically, it turned out to be the opposite.

This individual—who also runs success coaching programs promising to help others achieve greatness—was caught on CCTV instructing his team to physically assault a barista. Unfortunately for him, the victim was the son of a wealthy and influential businesswoman, who owns the very coffee shop where the incident occurred.

The next day, he returned to apologize, but his apology was rejected. The shop owner insisted he report to the police. Now, this “coach” faces potential legal consequences that could alter his life forever.

The irony here isn’t just in his fall—it’s in how this incident casts a shadow over the entire coaching industry. People begin to associate “coaches” with arrogance, violence, or fraud. That makes it harder for those of us genuinely working to guide entrepreneurs and leaders toward meaningful success lessons in business and life.

But here’s my stance: no one, no matter their profession or status, has the right to harm others. Coaching is about integrity, service, and lifting people up—not tearing them down.

I’ve been in the coaching for success journey for over three years now, and one truth has become very clear: not everyone is meant for this path. The road to success is rough, long, and demanding.

Most people want shortcuts. They want to “get rich quick.” That is not what I offer. My mission is not to sell dreams but to walk alongside those willing to pay the price of discipline, growth, and resilience.

This is why I focus on entrepreneurs and young leaders who are serious about building their lives—not just chasing money. They are a small segment of society, but they are the ones worth serving.

Lesson in coaching and success: If you don’t know exactly who your business serves, you will fail. A coach without clarity of audience will only waste time trying to please everyone.