Coaching & Mentoring
The best coaching doesn’t just solve problems—it inspires breakthroughs.
Prior to starting Maria Lucia Bakes I was coaching people and businesses for over 20 years.
I’ve worked with hundreds of individuals, startups, and established businesses to tackle challenges, unlock growth, and create lasting impact. My approach is rooted in real-world experience: I’ve built and scaled my own businesses, exported products internationally, and reached the #1 spot on Amazon in my category.
I know firsthand the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, and I bring that hard-earned knowledge to every session as well as professional training as a coach.
What Makes My Coaching Different?
My journey isn’t theoretical—it’s lived. I’ve taken an idea from my kitchen table to supermarket shelves, navigated the complexities of international trade, and learned what it takes to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
I bring this firsthand experience to every coaching and mentoring session, blending it with the tools and techniques I’ve developed as a Master Certified Coach.
When you work with me, you’re not just getting advice or a sounding board—you’re gaining a partner who understands your world and can help you navigate it.
How We will Work Together?
Free 30-Minute Exploratory Call
Let’s start with a conversation. We’ll discuss your challenges, your goals, and how I can help
Coaching or mentoring Sessions
Book a one- or two-hour session for personalized guidance, fresh perspectives, and actionable strategies.
Why Work With Me?
Coaching isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about tailoring the process to you, your business, and your life. With decades of experience in coaching, business, and entrepreneurship, I bring the insights and tools you need to create lasting change.
Whether you’re launching a product, building a team, or navigating a personal crossroads, I’ll help you find clarity and momentum.
Ready to Begin?
Take the first step toward clarity, growth, and success. Book your free exploratory call today.
Who I Work With
Startup & Entrepreneurs
Whether you’re launching a food truck, opening a café, or introducing a new product to market, the early days of a business can feel overwhelming.
I’ve helped entrepreneurs navigate everything from sourcing suppliers and creating standout branding to mastering logistics and understanding regulatory requirements like labeling.
If you’re juggling too many plates or wondering what to prioritize, I’ll help you create a clear plan to move forward.
Small to Medium Businesses (SMEs)
Growing an SME comes with unique challenges—managing teams, scaling operations, and maintaining quality while expanding your reach.
I’ve worked with SME leaders in industries ranging from food production to professional services, helping them streamline workflows, build strong teams, and set a strategic direction that drives sustainable growth.
Established Businesses
For blue-chip companies or long-standing organizations, it’s easy to hit a plateau or lose sight of what makes your brand unique. I’ve partnered with leadership teams to re-energize their vision, improve communication, and adapt to changing markets—helping them remain relevant and innovative.
Food Industry Professionals
The food business is a world of its own. Whether you’re perfecting a recipe, scaling
production, or working out how to get your product on shelves, I’ve been there.
From helping artisan producers navigate export markets to advising restaurateurs on operations and customer experience, I bring hands-on expertise and industry insight.
Creative Entrepreneurs
Starting a business as a creative can be thrilling—but turning your passion into a sustainable venture requires more than just talent.
Whether you’re a baker launching a subscription box, a food blogger building a brand, or a photographer expanding into commercial work, I’ll help you turn ideas into action.
Individuals at a Crossroads
Sometimes, it’s not about business—it’s about finding clarity in your next step.
Whether you’re pivoting careers, returning to work after a break, or rethinking your
priorities, coaching can help you identify what matters most and chart a path forward.
Business Coaching Scenarios
Launching a new business
Navigating the steps to move from idea to execution.
Scaling operations
Expanding a small business while maintaining quality and control.
Team leadership
Developing the skills to inspire, manage, and grow a team.
Time management
Juggling competing priorities to maximize productivity.
Overcoming imposter syndrome
Building confidence as a new leader or entrepreneur.
Improving workplace communication
Strengthening relationships within teams or with clients.
Strategic planning
Setting a clear direction for growth and creating actionable goals.
Navigating change
Managing organizational shifts such as mergers, downsizing, or restructuring.
Breaking into a new market
Understanding export regulations, consumer behavior, or logistics.
Building a personal brand
Standing out in a competitive industry with authentic positioning.
Personal/Life Coaching Scenarios
Career transitions
Making a bold move to a new role, industry, or entrepreneurial path.
Overcoming burnout
Finding balance and recharging to sustain long-term success.
Improving relationships
Enhancing communication and connection in personal or professional life.
Navigating life after a major change
Adjusting to divorce, empty nesting, or other life shifts.
Building self-confidence
Developing belief in one’s abilities in any area of life.
Finding purpose
Gaining clarity on values, priorities, and long-term aspirations.
Mastering decision-making
Learning to make confident, strategic choices under pressure.
Financial empowerment
Developing better habits around money, budgeting, and investing.
Time and energy management
Creating routines to align with personal and professional goals.
Pursuing a passion project
Turning a creative hobby or dream into something tangible.
Pre-Startup Food Business Scenarios
Idea validation
Determining if your food concept has market potential.
Recipe development
Perfecting recipes for consistent quality and scalability.
Creating a business plan
Crafting a roadmap to define goals, budgets, and operations.
Understanding food regulations
Navigating local and international compliance for safety and labeling.
Sourcing ingredients
Finding reliable suppliers for high-quality, cost-effective materials.
Setting up production
Deciding between small-batch production, co-packing, or manufacturing.
Pricing strategies
Calculating costs and setting margins that support profitability.
Brand identity creation
Designing packaging, logos, and messaging that resonate with your audience.
Market testing
Running trials at farmers’ markets or with focus groups to gather feedback.
Securing funding
Pitching to investors, applying for grants, or accessing startup loans.
Food Business Scenarios
Scaling production
Transitioning from small-batch to large-scale manufacturing.
Expanding distribution
Getting your product into stores, online platforms, or export markets.
Optimizing logistics
Streamlining supply chains, storage, and delivery processes.
Navigating exports
Complying with international regulations and managing shipping logistics.
Developing new products
Diversifying your range while staying true to your brand.
Rebranding
Refreshing outdated visuals or messaging to attract a broader audience.
Building an online presence
Launching an e-commerce site or growing your digital marketing efforts.
Dealing with competition
Differentiating your products in a saturated market.
Managing seasonal demand
Preparing for peak times like holidays or summer festivals.
Improving cash flow
Managing inventory, reducing waste, and balancing expenses.
Ready to Begin?
Take the first step toward clarity, growth, and success. Book your free exploratory call today.
