Our Story
SmartGrowX started with a simple belief: career development isn't just about skills—it's about expressing who you are. Back in 2015, we were just a small team working out of a tiny office in Donegal, trying to figure out how emotional expression could transform professional growth.
I remember our first workshop—just 12 people in a community center, but the energy was electric. We've grown since then, but haven't forgotten those early days. Our approach combines traditional career coaching with techniques borrowed from acting and emotional intelligence training.
We've helped thousands find their authentic voice in the workplace, and we're just getting started. Our team brings together backgrounds in theater, psychology, and business coaching to create something truly unique in the career development space.
Our Mission & Vision
To revolutionize career development by unlocking the power of emotional expression, helping professionals find their authentic voice and transform their workplace presence.
What Drives Us
We believe that career success isn't just about technical skill—it's about bringing your whole self to work. Our approach draws on acting techniques that help you connect with emotions that drive authentic performance.
Too many talented people get stuck because they've been taught to suppress rather than express. We're changing that, one career at a time.
Meet Our Team
The faces behind SmartGrowX's unique approach to career development. We're a mix of actors, psychologists, and business coaches who believe in the power of emotional expression.
Michael Connor
Founder & Lead Coach
With 15 years in theater and 8 in business coaching, Michael combines both worlds to help professionals discover their emotional range. Started SmartGrowX after seeing how acting techniques transformed his own career journey. He's worked with over 200 executives to improve their presence and communication.
Sarah O'Donnell
Program Director
Sarah joined us in 2017 after a decade in organizational psychology. She's the architect behind our signature "Emotional Workspace" methodology. When she's not designing new workshops, you'll find her hiking the Donegal coastline—where she says she gets her best ideas for helping people overcome career plateaus.
Our Workspace
Where Magic Happens
Our Arranmore headquarters isn't your typical office. We've designed it as a blend of stage and workspace, where clients can move freely between reflection and expression. The ocean views help remind everyone that career growth, like the tide, is a natural force that can't be rushed—but can be channeled effectively.