
Nathanael Chawkin is a leadership coach, spiritual guide, and the Founder & CEO of Palæstra Leadership, where he works with CEOs and executive teams to build deeply aligned, high-trust cultures. He specializes in developing Deliberately Developmental Organizations (DDOs), helping leaders embrace vulnerability, honest feedback, and peer coaching so that everyone can grow—personally and professionally.
With over 15 years of experience, Nathanael brings a unique, embodied approach to leadership: he’s a martial arts and mindfulness instructor, holds a second-degree black belt in Aikido, and practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He holds a BA from Maharishi International University and an MA in Integral Psychology & Coaching from JFK University. In addition to his executive work, he founded Guardian Training, a men’s work methodology that integrates mixed martial arts, conflict resolution, and shadow work to support the awakening of the “sacred masculine.” He also leads Awakening Leadership, a transformative journey for conscious leaders centered on mindfulness, embodiment, and deep personal growth.