An online relationship coach, Jake Maddock, has recently faced significant backlash after abruptly leaving an interview and demanding the footage be deleted. Known for his controversial approach, Maddock has garnered a large following on social media but has also been accused of leaving clients feeling disheartened rather than supported.
During an interview with A Current Affair, Maddock expressed frustration with probing questions about his business practices. He allegedly shouted for the camera operator to delete the recording, unable to handle criticism regarding claims that his coaching had not delivered the promised results. Despite his requests, a backup of the footage reveals Maddock’s heated exit following inquiries into his client experiences.
Numerous women have come forward, stating they paid significant sums – sometimes exceeding $5,000 – for what they described as a "lifetime membership" to Maddock’s coaching program, known as Maddock University. However, clients report that they faced unexpected service reductions without notice, including being locked out of chat groups and receiving little support when they needed it.
Marie, a single mother who only wished to provide her first name, recounted how Maddock’s teachings led her to a distressing situation during a date, which she felt directly contradicted the safety principles one might expect from a relationship coach. Following her ordeal, her interaction with Maddock left her unsettled, with his curt response being a mere inquiry about her survival.
Many clients shared similar sentiments, indicating they felt abandoned and unsupported. In some instances, when individuals expressed their financial struggles, Maddock reportedly accused them of being “bad people.” His replies to dissatisfied clients have been characterised as aggressive and dismissive, with one woman recalling messages filled with expletives and insults when she expressed dissatisfaction with his services.
When confronted about the possibility of exploiting needy clients, Maddock downplayed the allegations, likening his business’s customer management challenges to common issues faced across various service industries. Despite the numerous complaints and the apparent harm some clients experienced, he defended his approach, stating, “It’s hard to do it perfectly.”
The conversation around Maddock has prompted professionals, including psychologist Sandy Rea, to remark on the dangers of unqualified relationship coaching pervasive on the internet. Rea highlighted the advantages of seeking guidance from trained professionals, who can provide informed, empathetic support to clients — a stark contrast to Maddock’s abrasive style.
Marie and others question why someone like Maddock continues in this line of work, suggesting that his methods lack respect for the emotional well-being of those seeking guidance in their love lives. As the scrutiny of Maddock’s practices continues, it raises broader concerns about the necessity of proper qualifications in the relationship coaching industry.