I really didn't hire him, I actually FIRED him 2 years ago. We had a HUGE falling out in 04 and I fired him, the only problem was I had paid up for a year of coaching so I was out about 1000.00. Not exactly chump change. And NO he didn't offer refunds. I ran into him last summer at a local sprint and we had a nice chat. He offered to write up some plans and I said "sure what the heck" I mean I might as well get my money out of him right??
So I listen to him, but I don't follow what he says like I used to. The good thing about him is that he can convince me that I can do more than I think I can. For instance, if he didn't tell me that he wanted to see a STRONG run off the bike then mentally I would not have pushed myself like I did. I would have taken walk breaks and cruised. I think sometimes I need the push in the rear. And it's nice to have another perspective on my training plan. He's actually not letting me ride as long as I would like on the weekends.
He's also pushing me to hire a swim coach- which I REALLY need to do!! Sigh... More $$$$$$....