Dale Kershner: From Robotics to Human Coaching – 43 Years of Transformational Impact
Discover how a law school dropout became a global force in business and human coaching.
In this episode of Direct Or Detour, we sit down with the dynamic and insightful Dale Kershner—a self-proclaimed “Human Being Coach” with over four decades of experience helping individuals and companies unlock their full potential. Dale’s story is anything but linear. From programming robotic machinery in the early ’80s to advising multinational corporations on how to interact with U.S. culture, his journey is packed with unexpected pivots, purpose-driven missions, and timeless wisdom.
If you’ve ever felt like your career path didn’t make sense—or that it was evolving faster than you could keep up—this episode is your proof that detours can lead to powerful destinations.
From Law School to Cutting-Edge Tech (and Beyond)
Dale’s journey begins with a swift exit from law school when he realized a lifetime behind a desk wasn’t for him. Hungry for challenge and variety, he pivoted into the tech world during its infancy—programming robotic machines and creating early networked computer systems for lumber mills in the 1980s.
But what started as a technical career soon evolved. As he traveled internationally to implement these systems, Dale discovered his real passion: working with people.
One fateful request from a Japanese CEO changed everything: “Can you teach our team how to be human?” Dale’s answer? Absolutely.
Coaching Through Connection and Clarity
That question launched Dale into a 43-year career of guiding people—not just business leaders, but human beings—toward greater clarity, communication, and performance. With a deep understanding that most people don’t realize how much their past filters their present, Dale helps clients uncover what they didn’t even know was holding them back.
Whether working with C-suite executives or entrepreneurs just getting started, Dale focuses on listening deeply, cutting through the noise, and providing honest, actionable insight. His coaching is grounded in one philosophy: no one hears what you meant to say—only what they perceive.
Key Takeaways from Dale Kershner’s Journey
- 💡 Don’t be afraid to walk away. Dale left law school two weeks in, trusting that something better would come—and it did.
- 🖥 Say yes before you’re ready. He never waited to be “qualified” and learned on the job, trusting his ability to grow into the role.
- 🌍 Tech was the gateway, but people were the purpose. After years of pioneering business systems, he realized helping humans was his real passion.
- 🧠 You don’t know what you don’t know. Dale teaches clients how to spot unconscious biases, assumptions, and filters that impact every interaction.
- 🧭 Give value without expectation. His mission is to leave people better than he found them—even if they’re just handing him coffee at Starbucks.
Why You Should Listen
If you’re an entrepreneur, corporate leader, or anyone craving personal growth, this episode offers both practical advice and inspiring reflection. Dale’s approach is equal parts bold, humble, and deeply human. He’s proof that “retirement” doesn’t have to mean slowing down—it can mean showing up even more fully.
👉 Whether you’re at a career crossroads or building something new, Dale’s story will challenge you to think differently and act courageously.
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode
🎙 Podcast Episode Link:
👉 Listen now on Captivate.fm
🔗 Connect with Dale Kershner
- 🌐 Website: https://www.dalekershner.com
- 📱 Instagram: @dalekershner55
- 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dalekershner
- 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/dale.kershner
Book a free 30-minute coaching call directly through his site—no strings attached.
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