Don’t Interrupt Listening! The power of listening presence to transform conversations with James Cook

What if our effort to listen well actually interfered with the power of listening itself? What happens when we let go and allow listening to be about presence, depth, and genuine human connection?

In this episode, we’re joined by James Cook, a learning and development specialist in coaching and team development at a large global organization.

With 28 years of experience in fast-moving consumer goods—spanning process development, supply chain, business optimization, and leadership—James has spent his career fostering growth and transformation. An ICF- and EMCC-accredited coach, he’s deeply committed to the power of listening, not just in leadership and team development, but also in life’s most critical moments. As a volunteer listener for Samaritans UK, he brings a unique perspective on the profound impact of listening in times of crisis.

In this conversation, James shares personal stories and insights that have reshaped his understanding of what listening truly is—and how he applies these lessons in his daily work. We explore how deep listening builds stronger teams, fosters real connection, and even transforms lives.

Enjoy listening in!

 

“Listening is something that we shouldn't interrupt. It's there between the two of you.” - James Cook

 

SUPERPOWER Notes:

02:01 – The Journey to Listening Awareness. James Cook reflects on his personal and professional experiences that led him to recognize the power of listening.

05:00 – The Birth of a New Understanding. How the arrival of his daughter with a rare skin condition opened his eyes to the need for deeper listening.

15:30 – The Impact of Crisis on Listening. Exploring how moments of personal loss drove James to volunteer as a listener for the Samaritans.

21:00 – The Power of Presence. James discusses the importance of being fully present in conversations and the impact it has on connection.

28:00 – The Role of Silence in Listening. Understanding how silence can enhance the listening experience and create deeper connections.

31:00 – Listening as a Leadership Skill. Why developing deep listening skills is essential for leaders to drive meaningful change.

38:00 – Practical Tips for Enhancing Listening Skills. James shares actionable strategies for improving listening in everyday interactions.

44:00 – The Future of Listening in Leadership. A discussion on the evolving role of listening in effective leadership and team dynamics.

 

Key Takeaways:

"Sometimes it's not about what you can do for the other person or how good you are at listening. It's actually the offer you make to people in crisis which is your presence and just being there." - James Cook

“...sometimes we see it in business meetings that we're almost going in there with an agenda... waiting to have our turn, to have our say." - James Cook

“...space will allow the listening to happen, the listening will happen without me doing anything."- James Cook

 

Recommended podcast episode: 

• Oscar Trimboli Full Interview: Getting Personal and Down to Business with Listening: https://listeningalchemy.com/listen-in/oscar-trimboli-full-interview-getting-personal-and-down-to-business-with-listening/ 

• Oscar Trimboli on Listening in Organizations and to Customers: https://listeningalchemy.com/listen-in/oscar-trimboli-on-listening-in-organizations-and-to-customers/ 

 

Resources and People Mentioned:

• Samaritans - A charity organization in the UK that provides a listening service for people in crisis or feeling suicidal.

• Oscar Trimboli - Author and speaker known for his model of the five levels of listening.

• Nancy Klein - Creator of the "Time to Think" methodology, which focuses on creating thinking environments for effective listening and conversation.

 

Connect with James Cook

• Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-cook-a62633/ 

 

Connect with Raquel Ark 

• www.listeningalchemy.com

• Mobile: + 491732340722

• [email protected]

• LinkedIn