291, Mentorship in the Age of Fake Gurus: How to Find the Right Guide (Without Wasting Time or Money)

Today’s topic is extra personal to me: mentorship. As someone who has moved from the dental clinic to the boardroom—I know about success without sacrificing one’s sanity.

In a world where everyone’s a self-proclaimed ‘expert’ selling quick fixes, how do you find a mentor who’s actually qualified to guide you? Someone who won’t just take your money but invest in your growth? Spoiler: It’s not about the follower count or the flashy testimonials.

Today we break down why picking the wrong mentor can cost you more than cash—it can derail your confidence, time, and even your health—and how to spot the real deal. Let’s dive in.”

The Cost of Fake Gurus

Let’s start with a hard truth: Bad mentorship is expensive. I’ve coached professionals who spent years—and thousands—on programs that left them more confused than when they started. One client, a brilliant dentist, nearly quit her practice after a ‘leadership guru’ told her to ‘just hustle harder’… while ignoring her burnout.

Fake mentors often peddle three myths:

‘One-size-fits-all’ formulas (ignoring your unique strengths).

‘Overnight success’ stories (that skip the messy, real work).

‘Sacrifice everything’ mentality (which tanks your health and relationships).

The result? Stalled careers, drained bank accounts, and a crisis of confidence. So how do we avoid this?” What Makes a Mentor ‘Right’?

A true mentor isn’t just someone who’s done something—it’s someone who can teach it, with empathy and evidence.

Here’s my checklist:

Credibility Beyond Instagram:

Do they have relevant expertise? A mentor shouldn’t just be a marketing whiz—creating virality they should understand nuances.

Look for certifications, peer recognition, or better yet, clients who’ve stayed with them for years.

They Practice What They Preach:

If not. Red flag.

They Care About Your Whole Success:

Its not just focussing on business goals—its about addressing health, mindset, and purpose. Because burnout isn’t a badge of honor.

Transparency Over Hype:

Real mentors admit their failures. (Fun fact: I once led a team project that crashed spectacularly—it taught me more than any ‘win’ ever did.)”

How to Vet a Mentor—Without the Guesswork

“Here’s my three-step system,

1. Audit Their ‘Why’:

In your first conversation, ask: ‘What’s your philosophy on growth?’ If they can’t articulate it beyond ‘making money,’ walk away.

2. Demand Science, Not Just Stories:

 Evidence beats anecdotes. Ask potential coaches: ‘How do you adapt your approach to different personalities or challenges?’

3. Test Drive Their Value:

Most legit coaches offer a low-risk starting point—like a discovery call or a mini-workshop.

And if they pressure you to sign a $10k package on the first call? Run.”

Let’s get practical.

The 24-Hour Rule:

Never decide on a coach in the ‘high’ of a sales pitch. Sleep on it. Then ask: ‘Does this align with my values, or just my fears?’

Remember: A coach’s job isn’t to have all the answers—it’s to help you find yours.”

If you take one thing from today, let it be this: Your growth deserves a coach who sees you as a human, not a revenue stream.

And to the fake gurus? We’re onto you.

Thanks for listening.

 

Love and peace always,

Amber

xoxo