The Coaching Crowd® Podcast with Jo Wheatley & Zoe Hawkins

The Coaching Crowd® Podcast is a weekly podcast for compassionate, courageous leaders, HR professionals and high achievers who are passionate about helping others to find alignment in their lives through coaching, and who are thinking of training and developing as a coach. Hosted by Zoe Hawkins and Jo Wheatley, Founders of Global Coaching Training Company “In Good Company” (https://www.igcompany.co.uk). Zoe and Jo are Master Accredited, Award Winning and Multi Award Nominated coaches, coach trainers and coach supervisors. They are authors of the best selling book ‘Deciding to Coach: The Mindset & Business Strategy For Aspiring Coaches’. Each episode focuses on a different element of what it is to be a coach and you’ll listen in as Zoe and Jo discuss the topic through different lenses. You’ll discover practical tools and resources you need to support your coaching as you learn all about becoming a qualified and certified coach. This podcast is a go-to resource for learning more about coaching and the mindset needed to be a world class coach. You’ll learn how to enable clients to truly know who they are, what their hearts call for and how to understand their values, beliefs and unconscious needs. Coaching goes beyond professional success and personal fulfilment and focuses on supporting everyday mental health. As you learn more about coaching, you learn to coach yourself. You are In Good Company with The Coaching Crowd®. In Good Company offers accredited coaching qualifications for individuals and organisations around the world, as well as ground breaking accredited CPD for coaches such as the trade marked Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training. You can join our courses and learn more about our communities here www.igcompany.co.uk and take our free quiz to find out which coaching course is right for you www.mycoachingcourse.com.

Accelerate your Coach CPD in 2026 01/05/2026

Accelerate your Coach CPD in 2026 2026 CPD Accelerator: What if the way you approach your CPD this year could fundamentally shape your confidence, energy, and impact as a coach? In this episode, we sat down to have an honest, grounded conversation about what continuous professional development really looks like for coaches in practice, not theory. As Master Accredited Coaches and founders of an accredited coach training provider, we reflected openly on our own CPD journeys, including the years of intense learning, the quieter phases focused on business growth, and the moments where CPD crept up on us through deadlines, reaccreditation reminders, or a deep need for stimulation and renewal. We explored why so many coaches fall into reactive CPD patterns, binge learning one year and neglecting it the next, and what happens when CPD becomes something you chase at the last minute rather than plan with intention. Throughout the conversation, we found ourseleves reflecting on how powerful it feels when CPD is aligned with who you are as a coach, the clients you serve, and the impact you want to have, rather than driven by fear, comparison, or industry pressure. We talked about compassion fatigue, confidence dips, and the quiet anxiety that can show up when CV requests or accreditation deadlines land unexpectedly. We also explored the joy of learning for learning’s sake, the gift of community and connection that comes from cohort-based CPD, and the way one programme can open doors you did not even know existed. This episode is also about practicality. We discussed the importance of anchoring CPD into your diary, planning financially, and understanding your own learning preferences, whether that is bite-sized learning, intensive programmes, or facilitated cohorts. We share reflections on how CPD can reignite momentum for early-stage coaches, support experienced coaches returning after time away, and help those who trained years ago feel current, capable, and confident again in today’s coaching landscape. As we step into 2026, this conversation is an invitation to pause, reflect, and choose your CPD with clarity and intention. We also introduced the CPD Accelerator, a short, focused experience designed to help you map out your CPD for the year ahead in a way that feels supportive, energising, and achievable. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and why CPD matters at the start of a new year 00:57 Our personal experiences of binge learning and CPD cycles 01:50 Why coaches need CPD that reflects real client issues 03:36 Planning CPD with intention rather than urgency 04:35 Compassion fatigue and filling your own cup as a coach 06:18 Missing opportunities and the cost of not planning ahead 08:30 Choosing CPD from confidence rather than fear 09:49 The power of community and cohort-based learning 11:28 CPD for early-stage and returning coaches 14:37 When CPD is imperfect and still valuable 18:15 Introducing the CPD Accelerator for 2026 Key Lessons Learned: CPD has the power to shape not only your skills, but your confidence, energy, and identity as a coach. Planning CPD early creates focus, financial clarity, and space to choose learning that truly fits. The best CPD is aligned with your strengths, gaps, and the clients you want to serve. Community and connection are often as valuable as the content itself. CPD works best when entered from a place of intention rather than panic or comparison. Links & Resources: CPD Accelerator: Keywords: Coach CPD 2026, coaching continuous professional development, CPD planning for coaches, coach accreditation CPD, coaching confidence development, professional development for coaches, coaching CPD programmes, coach learning and development, /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39605160

Behind the Scenes of 2025 12/29/2025

Behind the Scenes of 2025 What does a year of growth really look like when you step away from the highlight reel and tell the truth? As we reach the end of 2025, we wanted to pause and pull back the curtain on what this year has genuinely been like for us behind the scenes. This episode is an honest, reflective conversation about the reality of running a values led coaching business through a year of challenge, change, and deep learning. We talk openly about the tension between what people often see from the outside and what it has actually felt like to be inside the business. This year has asked a lot of us. There have been moments of momentum and celebration alongside periods of complexity, uncertainty, and sustained effort that few people ever witness. We reflect on how a trip to Dubai at the start of the year became a catalyst for significant shifts in our thinking. Stepping into a different environment gave us the space to see long standing business bottlenecks with fresh eyes. What had felt heavy and immovable suddenly became solvable. That experience reshaped how we approached systems, automation, and the role technology plays in supporting rather than draining a coaching business. We share what it took to bring our Neurodivergent Inclusive Coaching programme to life, both in its full facilitated form and later through the Essentials offering. These programmes hold enormous meaning for us, not only because of their impact on coaches and clients, but because of the care, collaboration, and emotional labour involved in creating them well. This year reminded us why programme creation is so demanding and why integrity in delivery matters deeply to us. Much of 2025 has been about strengthening the foundations of the business. We talk about the unglamorous but essential work of refining processes, documenting systems, onboarding team members, and rebuilding parts of the business from the ground up to support scale. This included changing payment systems, migrating our website from co.uk to com, securing trademarks, and rethinking how we structure qualifications and CPD. Alongside all of this, there has been personal growth. We reflect on stepping back into facilitation, reconnecting with learners, and the fulfilment that comes from being closer to the heart of the work. We also share how this year has prompted bigger questions about brand identity, marketing, and how we want to be known as a global coaching organisation. This episode is an invitation to reflect on your own year with honesty and compassion. Whether you are running a coaching business, leading in an organisation, or navigating change, we hope our reflections offer reassurance, perspective, and a reminder that progress is often quieter and messier than it appears. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and why we reflect at the end of each year 01:24 Why 2025 felt challenging as well as successful 01:54 The Dubai trip that changed how we saw our business 02:53 Gaining fresh perspective on systems and processes 05:17 Launching our Neurodivergent Inclusive Coaching programme 06:42 Creating accessible pathways through Essentials 08:04 Rebuilding systems and standard operating procedures 09:52 Moving from co.uk to com and what it represented 11:48 Returning to facilitation and reconnecting with learners 14:32 Securing trademarks and protecting the brand 15:29 Refreshing our ILM Level 3 coaching qualification 16:55 Corporate partnerships and ripple effects of coaching 18:22 Scaling responsibly and supporting hundreds of learners 21:29 Looking ahead to 2026 with clarity and optimism Key Lessons Learned: Stepping away from the day to day can unlock solutions that feel impossible when you stay too close Strong systems are not restrictive, they create freedom and sustainability Inclusive programme design requires time, care, and collaboration Scaling a coaching business often means rebuilding rather than adding on Reconnecting with clients and learners keeps the heart of the work alive Brand decisions are as emotional as they are strategic Continuous improvement is demanding but deeply worthwhile Links and Resources: Keywords: coaching business growth, behind the scenes coaching, neurodivergent inclusive coaching, coaching qualifications UK, coaching CPD programmes, emotional coaching practice, coaching business systems, coach training programmes, coaching leadership development, The Coaching Crowd podcast, /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39517595

Eight or so Christmas Coaching Questions 12/22/2025

Eight or so Christmas Coaching Questions What might become possible if you gave yourself space to pause, reflect, and listen this Christmas? This episode feels like a quiet exhale at the end of a full year. As we sat together, we wanted to offer something gentle, playful, and meaningful. Something that could be shared around a Christmas table, or held privately in moments of stillness during the festive period. We recorded this episode with the intention of creating connection. Connection with ourselves, with the people we love, and with the parts of us that have carried a lot this year. Rather than small talk, we wanted to invite deeper conversation and reflection. The kind that nourishes rather than drains. Throughout the episode, we read out eight Christmas inspired coaching questions. Each one is designed to open up reflection around rest, gratitude, celebration, self awareness, and letting go. As we shared the questions, we noticed how they landed in our own bodies. Some felt soothing. Others felt stretching. A few made us pause because we did not immediately know the answer, which often tells us there is something important waiting there. We also held in mind that Christmas can be complex. Not everyone experiences it as joyful or full of people. These questions are offered with compassion, whether you are surrounded by family, working through the festive period, or spending time quietly on your own. Coaching questions can be powerful companions, especially when the rest of the world slows down. This episode is shorter by design. It is not about teaching or fixing. It is about offering reflective prompts you can return to, share, or sit with over the holiday season and beyond. Coaching Questions and Reflections 1. What part of you deserves to rest and be replenished this holiday season? This question invites permission. Permission to notice where you are tired and to honour that need for rest without guilt. It encourages listening to your body, emotions, or energy rather than pushing through. 2. If you could wrap up this year as a gift, what would be inside? A playful question that opens reflection on what the year has truly held for you. Lessons, moments, relationships, challenges, or growth may all feature, often alongside a sense of meaning that only becomes clear in hindsight. 3. Whose light has helped guide you this year, and how might you thank them? This question centres gratitude and relational awareness. It often leads to naming people who have made a difference, sometimes those sitting in the same room, and recognising that being seen and acknowledged can be a profound gift. 4. Imagine you are at Christmas next year. What are you celebrating, and why? An invitation to look forward with intention. This question shifts focus from only big achievements to the quieter milestones such as calmer relationships, self connection, or emotional resilience. 5. What truth about yourself have you quietly met this year, and how will you honour it going forwards? One of the deeper questions. It encourages honesty and self respect, particularly around insights you may have noticed but not yet fully acknowledged or acted upon. 6. If you could hear the quiet wisdom of your future self this Christmas, what would they thank you for doing now? This question draws on future focused reflection. It helps surface choices, boundaries, or actions that your future self may already be grateful for. 7. If you could gift somebody a belief or mindset shift this Christmas, what would that gift be? Rooted in compassion, this question explores how we see others, often revealing care, understanding, and a wish for people to be kinder to themselves. 8. If you could leave something under the tree or send something back this year, what would it be? A powerful letting go question. It invites reflection on beliefs, habits, or emotional weight that no longer needs to be carried into the year ahead. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and setting the intention for Christmas reflection 00:30 Why meaningful conversation matters at this time of year 01:00 Question one on rest and replenishment 01:19 Question two on wrapping up the year as a gift 01:52 Question three on gratitude and guiding lights 02:22 Question four on celebrating next Christmas 03:28 Question five on meeting personal truths 05:17 Question six on future self wisdom 05:57 Question seven on gifting a mindset 07:40 Question eight on letting go and leaving things behind 08:10 Closing reflections and festive gratitude Links and Resources: Keywords: Christmas coaching questions, Reflective coaching, End of year reflection, Coaching for self-awareness, Emotional coaching, Personal growth reflection, Festive reflection questions, Coaching conversation starters, Mindful Christmas, Life coaching podcast, /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39486135

Answering Questions from our Listeners 12/15/2025

Answering Questions from our Listeners What happens when coaches slow down, listen deeply, and answer the questions they are rarely asked out loud? This episode felt different from the outset. This week we sat down without scripts, without rehearsed answers, and without certainty about where the conversation would land. What we had instead was trust. Trust in the coaching process, trust in each other, and trust in the questions our listeners brought to us. We invited our listeners to share the coaching questions they find themselves holding, whether that is something they wrestle with in sessions, reflect on in supervision, or wonder about quietly in their own practice. What came back was a rich mix of practical dilemmas, reflective prompts, and deeply human concerns about confidence, emotional boundaries, challenge, and connection. As we read each question aloud, we answered in real time. That meant responding from lived experience rather than polished theory. At points we noticed ourselves pausing, reflecting, and even sitting with uncertainty. That felt important. Coaching does not always offer clean answers, and this episode honours that reality. We explored what it means to interrupt a client with care, how to think about failure when it does not feel like the real blocker, and what to do when a client triggers discomfort or resistance in us as coaches. We also talked honestly about homework in coaching, emotional load, negativity, and the blurred edges between coaching and everyday relationships with family. What stayed with us after recording, was a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the honesty of our listeners, for the depth of the coaching profession, and for the privilege of being trusted with these kinds of questions. This episode is less about expertise and more about presence, reflection, and shared learning. Listener Questions and Reflections How do you catch a client who talks incessantly and keeps going over old ground without feeling disrespectful We reflected on the power of contracting at the start of sessions and being intentional with opening questions. Clear focus, permission to interrupt, and shared agreement on how to work together can transform this dynamic. we were particularly struck by the invitation to explore our own beliefs about interruption and respect, and how supervision can help unpack what feels uncomfortable for us as coaches. What would you do if you could not fail This question opened a deeper exploration of fear, risk, and attachment to outcomes. Neither of us felt that failure itself was the real barrier. Instead, we reflected on decision-making, tolerance for uncertainty, and how detachment from outcomes can create freedom and momentum. What do you do if you do not like a client Rather than seeing this as a problem, we framed it as data. Strong reactions are information. They invite curiosity, supervision, and self-reflection. Often, the clients who challenge us the most offer the richest learning and some of our most impactful coaching. Is homework essential for progress in coaching Our shared view was clear. Homework is not essential and should never be imposed. Progress comes from what the client chooses to take forward. Suggestions can be offered with care and consent, but the relationship must remain adult to adult, not expert to student. How can coaches hold space without taking on emotional load This question led us into beliefs about emotions, responsibility, and energy. We talked about preparation, grounding practices, and trusting that clients are capable of holding their own emotional experience. Sustainable coaching starts with how we relate to emotions, including our own. Is coaching friends and family ever a challenge We shared honest reflections about boundaries, self-awareness, and knowing when to step out of the coaching role. Coaching training changes how we see the world, but discernment matters. Not every moment calls for a coaching response. How do you coach someone who always returns to negativity We emphasised the importance of contracting for challenge and being honest about usefulness. Coaching is not about forcing change. Sometimes the most ethical choice is to question whether the coaching relationship remains the right support. Are there clients who stay with you the most Rather than naming one individual, we spoke about groups of clients who shape us at different stages of our development. What stayed with us was the sense of privilege in being invited into someone’s inner world and witnessing their growth over time. What keeps you awake at night This question brought humour, honesty, and insight. From ideas and inspiration to family life and physical rhythms, it was a reminder that coaches are human first, reflective second, and professional always. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and episode context 01:00 Coaching a client who talks incessantly 06:45 What would you do if you could not fail 11:36 What if you do not like a client 14:20 Is homework essential in coaching 18:30 Holding space without taking on emotional load 22:36 Coaching in everyday family conversations 28:04 Coaching clients who focus on negativity 30:33 Clients who stay with you the most 33:46 What keeps you awake at night 37:25 Closing reflections and invitation to listeners Keywords: coaching questions, coaching confidence, emotional coaching, holding space in coaching, coaching supervision, coach client relationship, coaching boundaries, coaching reflection, coaching challenges professional coaching practice, Links and Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39407400

What Stage of Coach Maturity are you at? 12/08/2025

What Stage of Coach Maturity are you at? Have you ever paused to consider where you truly are in your growth as a coach and what your current stage of development reveals about the way you show up for your clients? In this episode, we walk through the evolving arc of our professional identity and the way our presence deepens as we move from doing coaching to being a coach. It is a journey rich with curiosity, discomfort, insight, and ultimately, transformation. During the conversation, we unpack the three broad stages of coach maturity. We explore the ways we develop from novice coach to intuitive practitioner and eventually to a place where we work with the wider system that sits around each client. As we revisit these stages, we were reminded of the moments in our own journeys when we grappled with self-doubt, longed for structure, and later found liberation in silence, emergence, and reflective practice. We discuss what this pathway can look like in real life. Early on, the focus often sits on learning models like GROW or CLEAR, trying to get coaching “right”, and wondering whether you are offering enough value. As maturity builds, the focus shifts toward deep relational awareness. Questions such as how we are being together begin to matter more than the specific tools we use. There is more acknowledgment of intuition, pattern spotting, boundaries, ethics, and the energy in the space between coach and client. As the journey progresses, the coaching relationship becomes a gateway into something broader. We delve into the systemic nature of coaching and what happens when we are able to sit in not knowing without fear. This phase is rich, existential, and deeply grounding. It calls for humility, self-awareness, regulated presence, and the ability to hold space for emergence. We reflect on how this stage can be both liberating and challenging. At times we have found it confronting, and at others we have found it to be the most expansive area of professional growth. Throughout this episode, the recurring theme for me is that coaching maturity is not time served. It is about what we integrate, how we reflect, and the courage we bring to our own development. Every phase offers value. Every phase has its purpose. And every coach will move through the continuum in their own way. Our hope is that this conversation sparks meaningful self-reflection and gives you a clearer sense of where you are today and where your next stretch might be. Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and introduction to coaching maturity 01:20 Why the competency frameworks can feel confusing 02:17 From doing coaching to being a coach 03:35 The ongoing evolution of a coach 05:01 Coach maturity as continual development rather than destination 06:29 Stage one indicators and early coaching experiences 08:25 Navigating self doubt and value questions 09:50 Transitioning into a more relational coaching style 11:20 Deep listening, intuition and pattern spotting 12:45 Creativity and presence in coaching 14:11 How the coaching space mirrors client experiences 16:08 Sitting with not knowing and supporting emergence 18:05 Humility and letting go of ego 19:34 How supervision supports growth 20:31 Using coaching maturity reflections as a development catalyst 21:30 Why different clients need different levels of maturity 22:55 Maturity is not time served 24:18 Understanding learning edges 25:44 Encouragement for self-reflection and next steps 26:08 Coaching training quiz and CPD options Key Lessons Learned: Coaching maturity evolves from doing coaching to embodying the role of coach in a grounded, relational way Early stages often include self-doubt, reliance on tools, and a desire to get things right Growth involves increased trust in intuition, deeper presence, and comfortable use of silence Systemic awareness becomes central as maturity develops Reflective practice and supervision accelerate progression Not knowing can be a powerful portal for insight and emergence Maturity is not about years of experience but about integration and self-awareness Keywords: coaching maturity, coach development, reflective practice, coaching presence, coaching intuition, systemic coaching, coaching evolution, coaching confidence, professional coaching skills, coaching competence Links and Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39319320

Training to be a Coach after Burnout 12/01/2025

Training to be a Coach after Burnout Have you ever reached a point where burnout reshaped your sense of who you are and what you want next in life? In this episode, we explore the tender, transformative journey that so many people move through when they decide to train as a coach after experiencing burnout. This conversation matters because burnout rarely leaves life untouched. It rewires priorities, reframes identity, and forces us to acknowledge that our wellbeing is the most important asset we have. Throughout the discussion, we reflect on why individuals arrive at coach training following burnout and what they discover about themselves in the process. We talk about the shift from depletion to purpose, the desire to reconnect with meaning, and the way burnout creates fertile ground for growth once we begin to resource ourselves again. We acknowledge how disorientating burnout can be. It can feel frightening and destabilising, yet it can also illuminate our non-negotiables and reveal the parts of life that need to change. As we explore this, we share how coaching becomes a powerful pathway towards rebuilding confidence, rediscovering identity, and reconnecting with values. We dive into the emotional experience behind this choice. Many people arrive having encountered support through counselling, therapy, mentoring or coaching, realising that they want to help others in the same way they have been supported. Others arrive because their old world no longer fits who they have become. They do not return to their pre burnout life because it no longer feels like home. Coaching offers a forward focused space where they can shape what comes next. Throughout the episode, we reflect on the deep sense of safety and acceptance within the coaching community. We talk about how shame often accompanies burnout and how that shame is released when individuals step into an environment where life experience is valued rather than judged. We explore how coaching training becomes a healing process. Not always intentionally so, but in practice it reconnects people with the belief that they are enough. It helps them see themselves with compassion rather than criticism. It builds emotional honesty, self-awareness, and a renewed sense of possibility. We also reflect on how passion and purpose must be channelled with awareness. Burnout can occur in work that is deeply meaningful as well as work that is unfulfilling. Coaching training helps individuals see where their needs are not being met, where boundaries must shift, and how systemic pressures may be influencing their wellbeing. This episode is an invitation to anyone who has experienced burnout to consider how that experience might become a catalyst for growth. Coaching training can be the place where confidence is rebuilt, identity is reclaimed, and a new sense of purpose emerges. Timestamps: 00.00 Welcome and introduction 00.28 Why burnout leads people towards coach training 00.56 How burnout reshapes identity 01.48 Rebuilding confidence and recognising personal needs 03.45 Entering the fertile ground of growth after burnout 04.14 When returning to old roles no longer feels aligned 05.11 Developing the belief that we are enough 06.13 Releasing shame and finding acceptance in coaching communities 07.32 Understanding mindset, values and beliefs during coach training 08.56 The courage required to share personal experiences 10.21 Recognising burnout risks and unmet needs 11.18 Monitoring wellbeing and understanding control 12.39 Increasing self awareness through coaching skills 14.36 The emotional honesty coaching encourages 15.05 Recognising burnout in clients and systemic pressures 17.00 Why people seek the source of coaching skills 17.58 Channelling ambition into something healthy 19.22 Feeling busy without becoming depleted 20.20 Creating a sustainable coaching life 20.49 Coaching as an oasis after burnout 21.18 How to explore coach training Key Lessons Learned: Burnout often becomes a catalyst for reassessing identity, values and life direction. Coaching training provides a safe, accepting environment where individuals can release shame and rebuild confidence. The coaching journey is as healing as it is educational, helping people reconnect with the belief that they are enough. Passion driven individuals are at risk of burnout, and coaching skills help them understand and manage their needs. Coaching offers a future focused path that helps people move forward when returning to old roles no longer feels possible. Self awareness, emotional honesty and compassion are key outcomes of coach training after burnout. Life experience becomes a powerful asset within the coaching profession, not a limitation. Keywords: training to be a coach, coaching after burnout, burnout recovery, coach training journey, emotional wellbeing, values led coaching, identity after burnout, confidence building, self-awareness coaching, healing through coaching Links and Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39217265

Is the Coaching Market Saturated? 11/24/2025

Is the Coaching Market Saturated? Have you ever looked around at the growing number of coaches and wondered whether there is still space for you to build a thriving practice? In this episode we explore one of the most common concerns we hear from aspiring and experienced coaches: whether the coaching market is saturated. It is a question often rooted in fear and uncertainty, particularly for those stepping into the profession for the first time. As we reflect on this conversation, we notice how often this question reveals something deeper. It is rarely about the market itself. It is usually about whether there is space for me. Throughout the episode, we walk through the realities of an expanding coaching industry and what that means for those entering the field today. Demand for personal and professional development continues to rise and coaching has become a mainstream development tool across organisations, wellbeing programmes and leadership pipelines. Yet it is easy to feel overwhelmed when every social feed appears full of coaches promoting their services. Decision fatigue is real, and so is the sense of comparison. We share honest reflections on why differentiation matters more than ever. When we understand how we help people, what problems we solve and who we serve, the market suddenly feels much less crowded. We talk about the importance of niche clarity, emotional connection and business strategy, and how coaches can create meaningful impact by aligning their work with their values, expertise and purpose. We also explore fast-growing areas of coaching including neurodiversity coaching, team coaching and group coaching, as well as the shifting landscape created by AI. Some coaches incorporate technology into their practice while others intentionally lean into a deeply human approach. Both routes have value. Both reveal opportunities for growth. This episode is a reminder that saturation is a perspective, not a fixed truth. When you zoom out and consider the billions of people navigating work, life and change, the opportunities for coaching are vast. The real question becomes: how can I differentiate myself within a thriving, expanding market and create the conditions to succeed? If you are curious about training as a coach and want support in choosing the right route for you, I signpost you to the Coaching Crowd quiz, which brings clarity to that decision-making process and helps you understand where you fit best within the coaching world. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and framing the question 01:20 Why people worry about market saturation 03:00 The rise in coaching demand and industry growth 04:10 How niche clarity cuts through market noise 05:40 Perspective, fear and evidence-gathering 07:15 Zooming out to a global view of opportunity 08:50 Emerging coaching niches and industry trends 10:00 The role of AI and future-ready coaching models 11:20 Differentiation through values, credibility and brand 12:45 How coaching training shapes identity and purpose 14:10 Why coaching is now a mainstream development strategy 16:10 Personal and professional growth through coaching skills 18:20 Realism, resilience and navigating industry cycles 19:40 Why demand for ethical, skilled coaches continues to grow 20:55 Final reflections and invitation to take the Coaching Crowd quiz Key Lessons Learned: Saturation is often a fear-based perspective rather than an industry reality. Differentiation is key. When you communicate your value clearly, the market feels significantly less competitive. Demand for coaching continues to grow across corporate, personal development and wellbeing sectors. Coaching niches are expanding rapidly, particularly in neurodiversity, team development and group coaching. Global demand far exceeds current coaching capacity, creating long-term opportunity. Technology and AI will shape future coaching models, but human connection remains irreplaceable. Clear positioning, professional training and accreditation create confidence for both coach and client. Coaches who understand their purpose and values attract clients who resonate with their approach. Coaching skills enhance leadership capability far beyond traditional coaching roles. Becoming a coach often leads individuals to invest more deeply in coaching themselves, further growing the market. Keywords: coaching industry growth, coaching market saturation, becoming a coach, coaching niches, coaching demand, wellbeing and coaching, neurodiversity coaching, coaching qualifications, group coaching, leadership coaching skills, Links and Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39137820

Is Coaching Who You Are or What You Do 11/17/2025

Is Coaching Who You Are or What You Do Have you ever wondered whether coaching is something you do or something you are? In this episode, we dive into a powerful identity-based question that often emerges when people consider a future in coaching: is coaching fundamentally a skillset, or is it an expression of who we are at our core? We explore how coaching can be seen as an external activity, a profession where we learn models, techniques and structures to support people with their goals. Coaching becomes the thing we do to make a living, with our craft built through continuous learning and development. At the same time, coaching can also be deeply rooted in how we naturally move through the world. When curiosity, deep listening and a desire to understand others feel instinctive, coaching may feel like an extension of our identity rather than a role to step into. We reflect on our own journey, where coaching felt like who we were before it became what we did. We share that, learning the skills came first, which then enabled us to identity as a coach to grow. We’ve seen so many coaches discover coaching in both directions, and neither path is more valid or successful than the other. We also discuss the reality that coaching evolves over time. As our coaching maturity develops, our presence deepens. The identity a coach holds today will not be the same identity they hold in ten years. Coaching can grow with us as our practice and confidence expand. And crucially, coaches are human beings first. There can be pressure when we over-identify with the coach role. We talk openly about releasing the expectation to embody our coach persona in every moment of life, especially when parenting, navigating stress, or juggling the many facets of running a business. This episode is an invitation to reflect, stretch your thinking, and recognise that both identity and action shape what it means to coach. You don’t need a definitive answer. Sometimes the power lies in the exploration itself. Timestamps: 00:00 – Why we’re asking: is coaching who you are or what you do? 00:53 – Defining coaching as a skillset and profession 02:24 – Coaching as identity and a way of being 03:46 – How coaches find their path into coaching 05:12 – Innate qualities vs trained skills 07:03 – Coaching styles, diversity and inclusivity 09:16 – Presence and how it shapes our experience of coaching 10:11 – Over-identifying with the coach identity 12:26 – The energy and consciousness behind coaching 15:21 – Who gets to define what coaching is? 17:16 – Evolution of coaching practice and competencies 18:41 – Final reflections and invitation to explore coaching further Key Lessons Learned: Coaching can be both a role we perform and a core part of who we are Skill development and personal identity evolve together in coaching practice No single pathway into coaching is more valid than another Over-identification with being a coach can limit our humanity Coaching continues to change and modernise as the profession matures Presence requires energy, awareness and skill, it is not a constant state The freedom to define your style is one of the greatest strengths of coaching Keywords: coaching identity, coaching skills, what is coaching, coaching profession, coach development, becoming a coach, coaching mindset, deep listening, coaching journey, coaching presence, Links & Resources: igcompany.com/ilmcall /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/39051895

How to become an ADHD Coach 11/10/2025

How to become an ADHD Coach Have you ever felt drawn to help others navigate the unique challenges and strengths that come with ADHD, yet wondered what it truly takes to call yourself an ADHD coach? In this episode, we explore one of the questions we’re asked most often; How to become an ADHD coach. As more people receive ADHD diagnoses, many coaches are curious about how they can ethically and effectively support this community. Through our discussion, we share insights from our experience as accredited training providers and as coaches who work extensively in the neurodivergent space. We begin by unpacking the difference between being a coach who works with clients who have ADHD and being an ADHD specialist coach. That distinction matters, because it shapes how you present yourself in the market and the depth of knowledge you need to support clients responsibly. We discuss why true ADHD coaching requires more than a quick online certificate. Coaching neurodivergent clients demands strong foundational coaching skills and a deep understanding of neurodivergence, trauma, and inclusivity. Ethical practice starts with accreditation, understanding professional standards, codes of conduct, and trauma-informed approaches. We also reflect on the importance of seeing clients as whole people, not as a label or diagnosis. While ADHD may influence how someone experiences the world, it doesn’t define them. In every coaching conversation, we meet individuals with careers, relationships, goals, and emotions that extend far beyond their diagnosis. A powerful part of our conversation focuses on lived experience. Many aspiring ADHD coaches are themselves neurodivergent, which brings empathy and connection, but it can also blur professional boundaries. We explore how to honour that lived experience without projecting it onto clients and how supervision and reflective practice protect both coach and client. As we close, we talk about the routes available for coaches who want to deepen their expertise, from our Level 7 Coaching Qualification to our Neurodivergent Inclusive Coaching Essentials and full Neurodivergent Inclusive Coaching Programme. Whether you’re starting your coaching journey or looking to specialise, this episode offers a grounded view of what ethical, inclusive ADHD coaching looks like in practice. Timestamps: 00:48 – The difference between an ADHD coach and a coach working with ADHD clients 02:35 – Understanding co-occurring conditions and the importance of inclusivity 04:29 – Why short ADHD coach training courses can be misleading 05:47 – Seeing the whole person, not just the diagnosis 09:55 – Accreditation, CPD and what ethical practice looks like 12:02 – The role of lived experience in building trust and navigating boundaries 14:20 – How neurodivergence changes the way we interpret client behaviour 15:34 – Recognising gaps in your knowledge and choosing the right training 16:59 – Celebrating the growing demand for inclusive coaching Key Lessons Learned: Ethical ADHD coaching begins with strong, accredited foundational coaching skills. ADHD rarely exists in isolation; understanding co-occurring conditions is vital. Lived experience can build trust, but reflection and supervision protect the coaching relationship. Trauma-informed and inclusive practice are essential for supporting neurodivergent clients. True specialism requires depth, time, and commitment, not a quick online course. Clients want coaches who understand their individuality, not their label. Accreditation demonstrates professionalism and builds client confidence. Continuous professional development ensures you evolve with the growing field of neurodiversity. Inclusive language and awareness create safer, more empowering coaching spaces. The future of coaching lies in understanding and celebrating neurodiversity, not reducing it to a niche. Keywords: ADHD coach, ADHD coaching training, neurodivergent inclusive coaching, ICF accredited coaching, ethical coaching, trauma-informed coaching, neurodiversity in coaching, ADHD coaching certification UK, inclusive coaching practice, professional coach accreditation, Links & Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38974585

How to Train as a Coach when Working Full Time 11/03/2025

How to Train as a Coach when Working Full Time Have you ever wondered how people manage to train as a coach while juggling a full-time job, family, and everything else life throws their way? In this episode, we explore one of the most common questions we hear: How can I train as a coach when I already work full time? We know from experience that most people who come to train with us are balancing busy lives, full-time jobs, caring responsibilities, and personal commitments. And yet, many find that their coaching qualification becomes the highlight of their week, a time to step into a space that’s entirely for them. We talk about the practicalities, mindset, and support systems that make this possible. From flexible formats and payment options to honest conversations with employers, we share the approaches that have helped hundreds of learners succeed in training while working full time. We discuss the range of formats available, including evening, morning, weekend, and self-guided options, and how learners find creative ways to integrate their studies into their lives. Whether it’s fitting in lessons during lunch breaks, listening to content while walking the dog, or negotiating time off work, there are countless routes to make it work. Beyond logistics, we explore the mindset that makes the biggest difference. Training to be a coach isn’t only a professional investment, it’s a personal one. The moment you shift from asking “Am I ready?” to “How can I make this work?”, everything changes. We share personal stories from our own coaching journeys, from completing qualifications with young children to navigating demanding roles, and the lessons that shaped how we now support others through this process. We also talk about the value of employer sponsorship and how organisations increasingly recognise coaching as a way to develop culture, leadership and connection within teams. Many of our learners find that their organisations not only support them financially but also benefit from the ripple effects of their growth. By the end of this episode, you’ll come away with practical tools, encouragement and the reassurance that training to be a coach while working full time isn’t only possible, it could be one of the most transformative decisions you ever make. Timestamps: 00:01 – Why most trainee coaches balance learning with full-time work 00:57 – How life commitments coexist with coaching study 02:21 – Flexible learning formats that fit around your schedule 03:51 – Managing missed sessions and staying on track 04:17 – Payment options and accessibility 05:17 – Choosing the format that fits your energy and lifestyle 06:34 – Employer support and building a business case for funding 09:24 – The mindset shift that helps you commit and thrive 10:52 – Making coaching a personal priority 12:20 – Understanding the true time commitment 13:15 – Practising through triads and structured peer learning 14:44 – Why investing in coaching changes everything 15:37 – Finding time by changing perspective and routine 16:30 – Adapting your learning style for flexibility 17:00 – How to make your environment support your goal 18:51 – Role modelling lifelong learning for others 19:17 – Turning intention into reality and taking the next step Key Lessons Learned: It’s entirely possible to train as a coach while working full time with the right mindset and structure. Flexibility in format and timing means coaching qualifications can fit around real life. Shifting your question from “Is it the right time?” to “How can I make it work?” changes everything. Employer sponsorship can create win–win outcome, for your growth and your organisation’s culture. Treating your coaching training as an act of self-investment fuels motivation and resilience. Clear time planning and communication at home and work are essential for success. Every learner’s journey is unique, there’s no single “perfect” way to do it. Training as a coach while working builds powerful habits of reflection and self-leadership. The return on investment goes far beyond career progression, it transforms how you think, feel and connect. Starting now often becomes the most impactful decision for your future self. Keywords: train as a coach while working full time, coaching qualification, coaching career development, flexible coaching training, online coaching courses UK, emotional coaching, mindset for success, accredited coaching programmes, coaching while employed, professional coach training, Links & Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38889860

You Can Choose Your Emotions 10/27/2025

You Can Choose Your Emotions Have you ever felt like your emotions are running the show, as though you’re at the mercy of how you feel rather than in control of it? In this episode, we explore one of the most liberating principles in emotional coaching, the idea that: You can choose your emotions. It might sound idealistic at first, yet through our conversation we unpack what it truly means to take ownership of your emotional world and experience greater freedom within it. As we close our six-part Emotions Coaching series, we dive deep into how this principle nurtures confidence, emotional resilience, and wellbeing. We talk about the belief that while we can’t always choose our circumstances or the people around us, we can always choose how we respond. This is what we call emotional freedom, being response-able rather than reactive. Throughout the episode, we reflect on how coaching invites people to explore how they want to feel, not only how they currently feel. It’s a powerful shift that opens the door to new possibilities and helps align emotions with meaningful action. We discuss the importance of moving from default emotional scripts towards more conscious, choice-driven responses that honour who we are today and who we aspire to become. We also share how this principle comes alive in real coaching sessions: how a gentle “What if you could choose how you feel right now?” can help clients open up new emotional landscapes, and why validating current emotions before introducing this idea is crucial. From building self-leadership to navigating the tension between responsibility and blame, this episode encourages listeners to experiment with emotional choice in their daily lives. We even share a light-hearted story about how this plays out in our own relationships, proof that emotional awareness doesn’t mean perfection, but presence, curiosity, and compassion. Choosing your emotions is about living life by design. When you step into the belief that emotional choice is possible, you begin shaping a life led by intention, not reaction. Timestamps: 00:27 – Why emotional choice nurtures confidence and wellbeing 01:25 – Understanding emotional freedom and being “response-able” 02:18 – Coaching conversations that invite emotional choice 03:44 – Breaking free from default emotional scripts 05:10 – Aligning emotions and action in coaching 06:03 – The power of “What if you could choose how you feel right now?” 07:28 – Recognising emotional discounting in clients 09:45 – Emotional choice as part of everyday self-leadership 11:11 – Designing your emotional experience 13:02 – How to introduce emotional choice safely in coaching 15:12 – Projection, resistance, and emotional responsibility 17:51 – Balancing ownership with compassion 18:48 – Emotional choice as liberation and empowerment 19:17 – How to learn more through our accredited programmes Key Lessons Learned: Emotional choice begins with awareness, recognising you can shift how you feel opens the door to freedom. Coaching creates a unique space where people can explore how they want to feel, not only how they currently feel. Emotional freedom means moving from reaction to response, from script to self-leadership. Taking ownership of your emotions enhances confidence and wellbeing, especially when life feels uncertain. Introducing emotional choice requires sensitivity, timing and compassion are key to helping clients embrace it. Living by emotional design means choosing alignment between feeling, thinking, and doing. Responsibility brings freedom; when we own our emotions, we access choice, growth, and empowerment. Keywords: emotional freedom, emotions coaching, choosing emotions, emotional intelligence, self-leadership, coaching skills, personal growth, mindset coaching, emotional resilience, emotional awareness Links: Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training (ICF accredited): Coaching Qualifications and Quiz: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38790515

Emotions are Interlinked in Coaching 10/24/2025

Emotions are Interlinked in Coaching Have you ever noticed how emotions from the past or fears of the future can quietly shape the choices you make today? In this episode, we explore the fifth principle from our Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training that, …emotions are interlinked. We reflect on how emotions move through time, intertwining between past, present and future, and how this shows up in coaching conversations. We discuss how clients can become anchored in the future, unable to act in the present, and how others may carry echoes of past experiences that colour their emotions today. Through our own reflections and client examples, we talk about what happens when a person’s emotions are entangled with future outcomes that haven’t yet arrived. Zoe shares a personal story about navigating a family decision and the moment she realised that her emotions were not rooted in the present, but in imagined futures. By recognising that, she was able to return to the here and now, where clarity and confidence could emerge. We talk about how, as coaches, our role is not to fix or rescue but to help clients notice and make sense of their emotional experience. This involves recognising when a client is operating from thought rather than feeling and guiding them gently back to contact with their emotions. We explore what happens when clients begin to recognise the difference between what they think and what they feel, and how that awareness opens new insight and direction. Another aspect of this principle is the coexistence of multiple emotions. Clients often describe being both excited and frightened, or relieved and sad, at the same time. These “parts” can represent internal conflicts that, when explored with compassion, bring valuable understanding. We reflect on how emotions interlink not only with thoughts and actions, but also with the wider world, from relationships and teams to global events that shape how we feel and behave. This principle is a reminder that emotions are rarely isolated. They are threads in a much wider emotional web, and when we as coaches can hold space for that complexity, we enable our clients to connect with the deeper truth of their experience. As we close, we reflect on the power of emotional awareness in coaching. It’s what makes coaching transformative. When clients understand how their emotions are interlinked and learn to navigate them consciously, they move forward with greater balance, authenticity and resilience. If you’d like to explore how emotions shape behaviour and learn practical tools to work with emotions in your coaching practice, join us on our Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training at . Timestamps: 00:00 – Exploring the fifth principle: emotions are interlinked 00:28 – How emotions connect through time – past, present and future 01:56 – Recognising emotional anchors from the past 03:23 – Unhooking from future emotions to find clarity in the present 04:20 – Personal example of separating imagined emotions from reality 05:14 – Anchoring clients in the here and now 06:38 – Differentiating between thoughts and feelings in coaching conversations 09:29 – Working with emotional “parts” and internal conflict 12:14 – Understanding how personal emotions link with global and systemic emotions 14:12 – Emotional honesty and the value of vulnerability in practitioner training 15:39 – The ripple effect of emotional awareness on coaching impact 16:40 – Coaching as a life-changing process Key Lessons Learned: Emotions are rarely isolated; they are interlinked across time, thought and experience. Helping clients to identify whether emotions stem from the past, present or future builds clarity and focus. Recognising the distinction between thoughts and feelings is a gateway to deeper self-awareness. Exploring “parts” allows clients to acknowledge internal conflict and move towards emotional integration. Coaches must hold space for complex, often conflicting emotions without trying to fix or rescue. Emotional awareness elevates both coach and client, deepening the transformational potential of coaching conversations. Keywords: emotional coaching, emotions in coaching, emotions coaching practitioner training, coaching skills, emotional awareness, emotional intelligence for coaches, coaching emotions, understanding feelings in coaching, emotional interlinking, self-awareness in coaching Links & Resources – Take the quiz to find which coaching course is right for you – Explore our CPD on emotions coaching /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38641020

Emotions are not always Authentic in Coaching 10/13/2025

Emotions are not always Authentic in Coaching Have you ever wondered whether the emotions your clients share are the full story or whether there’s something deeper waiting to be uncovered? In this week’s episode of the podcast we explore one of the most thought-provoking principles in our series: Emotions are not always Authentic. At first, this concept can feel like a puzzle. As coaches, we often take our clients’ emotions at face value, believing that frustration, anger, or disappointment are clear and complete emotional truths. Yet, as we discuss in this episode, emotions can be layered and sometimes conceal a more authentic emotional experience beneath the surface. We begin by exploring what happens when a client describes feeling “frustrated” about their lack of progress toward a goal. Through curiosity and emotional exploration, it may become clear that what lies beneath isn’t frustration at all; but sadness, grief, or even fear. Recognising this difference can be transformative. As we unpack this principle, we reflect on our own experience of connecting with an authentic emotion. There was a moment when we realised that what we thought we felt was simply a cover for something deeper. When that deeper emotion surfaced, raw and unfiltered, it brought relief, understanding, and healing. We also discuss how coaching with emotions isn’t about lingering endlessly in feelings. Rather, it’s about clarity and progress. By helping clients access their authentic emotions, we enable them to process their experiences, meet their needs, and move forward with greater confidence. Throughout this conversation, we reflect on: How emotions can mask one another The difference between surface and authentic emotional experiences The role of conditioning in shaping which emotions we allow ourselves to express Why authentic emotional awareness accelerates coaching progress How understanding emotional authenticity helps resolve conflict, both internally and interpersonally This episode is a reminder that coaching is emotional work at its core. As we deepen our awareness of authentic emotion, both our own and our clients’, we open the door to greater compassion, insight, and transformational change. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the six principles series 01:00 – What does it mean for emotions to be “inauthentic”? 02:30 – Exploring client examples and the layers beneath frustration 04:30 – How curiosity reveals the real emotion beneath the surface 05:20 – Personal reflection: recognising authentic emotions in real life 08:45 – Conditioning and the emotions we learn to suppress 10:40 – The difference between primary and secondary emotions 12:00 – Why emotions coaching accelerates progress 14:30 – Conflict and communication from an inauthentic emotional place 16:20 – How understanding emotions transforms coaching conversations 17:00 – Resources for learning more about emotional coaching Key Lessons Learned: Authentic emotions often sit beneath surface-level expressions such as frustration or anger. Helping clients explore their emotional depth leads to clarity, not confusion. Emotional awareness accelerates progress by dissolving unseen barriers. Self-reflection allows coaches to better recognise authentic emotion in others. Social and cultural conditioning shape how we experience and express emotions. Conflict often persists when people communicate from inauthentic emotional places. Recognising authentic emotion helps meet unmet needs and fosters true fulfilment. Emotional coaching isn’t “fluffy” it’s foundational to effective practice. Exploring emotions supports ethical, person-centred coaching. Curiosity is the key to uncovering authentic emotional truth. Keywords: emotional coaching, authentic emotions, coaching training, emotion awareness, emotional authenticity, coaching conversations, emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, emotional growth, professional coaching Links & Resources – Take the quiz to find which coaching course is right for you – Explore our CPD on emotions coaching /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38556405

Emotions are Unmet Needs in Coaching 10/06/2025

Emotions are Unmet Needs in Coaching Have you ever paused to ask yourself what your emotions are really trying to tell you? In this episode, we explore one of the most transformative principles in emotional coaching: the idea that emotions are unmet needs. This concept reshapes how we relate to our inner experiences, moving from seeing emotions as random or inconvenient to viewing them as valuable signposts guiding us toward greater self-understanding and balance. As we reflect on this principle, we’re reminded of how often our emotions offer insight into something deeper, such as a need for safety, connection, clarity, or growth. When we shift from judging our emotions to becoming curious about them, we begin to uncover their hidden wisdom. That curiosity is where transformation begins, both for ourselves and for our coaching clients. In our conversation, we explore what happens when we approach emotions not as problems to fix but as messages to interpret. We discuss how naming emotions helps to release their intensity and how exploring the need beneath them invites self-compassion and meaningful action. Sometimes that insight can be profound, and at other times beautifully simple, like realising that nervousness before a meeting might be calling for preparation time or reassurance. This approach creates space for honesty and courage. Many clients have never been asked, “What does that feeling need?” Giving permission to express an unmet need, whether for clarity, respect, or support, can be profoundly healing. When we help clients identify and articulate those needs, we empower them to take small, grounded steps that lead to significant change. We also explore how this principle connects to values, beliefs, and goals, which together form the four core pillars of coaching. Unmet needs often sit at the intersection of values and emotions, revealing what truly matters to each individual. When clients begin to interpret their emotions as meaningful signals rather than irrational responses, their relationship with themselves transforms. They move from feeling controlled by emotions to feeling more in control because of them. Ultimately, this principle is not only a coaching tool but a life skill. By listening to our emotions and recognising what is missing, we nurture emotional intelligence, deepen self-awareness, and create a more compassionate relationship with ourselves and others. Timestamps: 00:28 - Understanding emotions as unmet needs 01:21 - Common examples of emotions signalling deeper needs 02:20 - Using curiosity to step outside the emotional experience 03:19 - How curiosity dissipates emotional intensity 04:33 - The power of expressing unmet needs in coaching 06:00 - Moving from judgment to understanding 07:29 - Bringing lightness and simplicity to emotions work 08:27 - The three steps of emotions coaching in practice 10:21 - Applying the principle to coaching preparation 11:15 - Linking emotions to values, beliefs, and goals 12:44 - Turning emotional awareness into action and growth 13:39 - Helping clients feel more in control of emotions 15:06 - The ripple effect of emotional awareness in coaching practice 16:00 - Learning more through the Emotions Coaching Practitioner programme Key Lessons Learned: Emotions are valuable messages that reveal unmet needs rather than random feelings. Curiosity helps create distance from emotional intensity and opens access to insight. Asking “What does this feeling need?” empowers clients to name and meet their needs. Emotional exploration is both deep and light, transformative yet practical. Linking emotions to values and beliefs creates powerful coaching breakthroughs. Emotional awareness builds self-regulation, confidence, and compassion. Naming emotions and identifying needs enhances client agency and resilience. The principle of unmet needs applies to both coaching and everyday life. Emotional literacy helps shift from reactivity to reflection. This work creates a ripple effect of personal and professional transformation. Keywords: emotional coaching, unmet needs, coaching practice, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, values-based coaching, emotions in coaching, emotional literacy, coaching psychology, curiosity in coaching, Links & Resources Emotions Coaching Demo: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38476425

You Are Not Your Emotions in Coaching 09/29/2025

You Are Not Your Emotions in Coaching What if the emotions you feel are not who you are? Have you ever caught yourself saying, “I’m not confident” or “I’m an anxious person”? In this episode of the podcast, we explore principle two of our Six Principles of Emotion series: You are not your emotions. So many of us, and our clients, confuse feelings with identity. We slip into patterns of speech where we equate ourselves with an emotion, making it part of who we are. This is where coaching can create powerful transformation. By helping clients separate their sense of self from the emotions they experience, we open the door to growth, choice, and freedom. In this conversation, we reflect on how over-identifying with emotions such as anxiety, fear, or guilt can keep people stuck. We also consider how positive emotions like joy or calm can become limiting when they are tied too tightly to identity. A client might say, “I’m a calm person,” yet find themselves disturbed by stress, which creates inner conflict. Through emotions coaching, we can offer new perspectives that allow people to explore who they are beyond these emotional labels. I found myself reflecting on the liberating power of simple shifts in language, from “I am anxious” to “I am feeling anxious right now.” That pause changes everything. It reminds us that emotions are designed to move and do not define us. When clients see this, they often regain clarity, confidence, and connection with themselves. This episode is an invitation to lean into conversations around emotions in your coaching. It’s about helping clients see they are more than their feelings and guiding them towards new ways of being that support their goals and wellbeing. Timestamps: 00:30 – Why emotions are central to coaching conversations 01:00 – How clients over-identify with emotions 02:20 – Understanding emotions as temporary and designed to move 03:20 – Shifting language: from “I am” to “I feel” 06:00 – Exploring fear and preparing for confidence 08:00 – The liberating effect of separating self from emotion 10:00 – Recognising the emotions gap in coaching 13:00 – Using metaphors and perspectives to unlock insight 15:00 – When positive emotions create internal conflict 17:00 – Spotting identity narratives in coaching conversations 19:00 – Resources and training opportunities Key Lessons Learned: Emotions are experiences, not identity. You are not your emotions. Language matters, small shifts from “I am” to “I feel” can unlock new perspectives. Over-identifying with both negative and positive emotions can create internal conflict. Coaching provides space for clients to separate themselves from their emotional experiences. Emotions coaching is about helping clients explore new perspectives, not telling them what to believe. Emotions are designed to move, getting stuck in them often signals where coaching can help. Keywords emotions coaching, coaching and identity, confidence in coaching, separating self from emotions, emotional coaching principles, imposter syndrome coaching, managing anxiety in coaching, positive emotions and identity, coaching for emotional growth, language in coaching conversations, Links & Resources Emotions Coaching Demo: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38389915

Emotions are Neither Good nor Bad in Coaching 09/22/2025

Emotions are Neither Good nor Bad in Coaching Have you ever caught yourself labelling your emotions as either good or bad, and wondered how that shapes the way you coach or experience life? In this episode of the podcast we begin a six-part series exploring the six principles of emotions coaching, drawn from our Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training. We open with the very first principle: Emotions are neither good nor bad. Too often, we attach labels to our feelings. We might view stress or anxiety as “bad” and chase after happiness as “good.” But when we categorise emotions in this way, we miss out on their deeper value. In our conversation, Jo and I share how emotions become defined not by their presence, but by the beliefs we attach to them. Zoe reflects on her own journey of recognising anxiety, an emotion she once denied, and how opening space for it led her to new levels of self-awareness and healthier strategies. We also discuss how coaches can inadvertently get pulled into their clients’ “get away from” energy, and how holding space with neutrality invites curiosity, possibility, and transformational growth. Throughout this episode, we show why suspending judgement around emotions is one of the most powerful coaching tools you can bring to your practice. Rather than trying to “fix” a client’s feelings, emotions coaching creates the conditions for richer insight, more authentic self-connection, and ultimately, greater transformation. Timestamps: 00:30 – Introducing the six-part emotions coaching series 00:57 – What it means that emotions are neither good nor bad 02:20 – How clients bring emotions into coaching sessions 03:35 – The role of neutrality and curiosity in coaching 06:19 – Zoe’s personal experience of recognising anxiety 08:39 – Why emotions carry wisdom and strategies 13:16 – Coaching conversations around anger and fear 16:38 – Boundaries, aggression, and coaching at the root cause 18:40 – Why emotions coaching is not “fluffy” but deeply transformational 21:01 – The power of startling questions in coaching 22:00 – How to develop your own emotions coaching toolkit Key Lessons Learned: Labelling emotions as good or bad prevents us from accessing their full value. Curiosity and neutrality allow clients to explore emotions without fear or resistance. Denying emotions (like anxiety or anger) can cause them to resurface in unhelpful ways. Emotions often carry wisdom, strategies, and insight when welcomed rather than avoided. Coaches add transformational depth by holding space for emotions instead of rushing to “fix” them. Leaders, executives, and clients alike benefit from having permission to explore emotions beyond surface goals. Keywords: Emotions coaching, Coaching principles, Neutrality in coaching, Transformational coaching, Coaching and anxiety, Emotional intelligence coaching, Anger in coaching conversations, Coaching for leaders, Stress and coaching practice, Emotions are neither good nor bad, Links & Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38302650

9.5 Risk of Not Being a Coach 09/15/2025

9.5 Risk of Not Being a Coach What is the greatest risk of not developing coaching skills, and how might that decision shape your life and career? In this episode of the podcast, we explore the risks of not training to be a coach. We reflect on the subtle but significant ways coaching skills transform lives, relationships, leadership, wellbeing, and what happens when we don’t invest in them. As we explored this theme, we found ourselves thinking back to our own journeys. Had we not stepped into coaching, we know our confidence, resilience, relationships, and even the material aspects of our lives would look entirely different. Coaching has not only deepened our self-awareness but also enabled us to build stronger connections, communicate with impact, and navigate challenges with courage. In this conversation, we highlight 9.5 key risks that come from not being a coach. We talk about self-awareness as the foundation, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how disconnected intuition often leaves leaders overthinking at 4am. We also discuss the impact of coaching on problem-solving, inclusion, resilience, and future leadership in a world shaped by AI and rapid change. One of the most profound reflections for me was realising that without coaching skills, we risk staying the same, missing out on our unrealised potential, stronger relationships, and the ability to influence the world around us. The greatest risk may not be failure but never stepping into what could have been possible. Whether you’re considering training to be a coach, or you’re curious about the wider benefits coaching can bring, this episode will give you a heartfelt and thought-provoking insight into why coaching matters more than ever. Timestamps: 00:29 – Framing the question: what are the risks of not being a coach? 01:23 – Self-awareness as the foundation of growth 03:16 – Emotional intelligence and relationships 07:32 – Advanced communication skills and listening 08:30 – Reconnecting with intuition 12:09 – The future of work, AI, and the role of coaching 14:24 – Inclusion, belonging, and building cultures that matter 15:22 – Beyond the self: the systemic risks of not coaching 18:11 – Problem-solving, resilience, and wellbeing 22:20 – Coaching as courage, presence, and connection 24:46 – The greatest risk: staying the same Key Lessons Learned: Without self-awareness, we risk limiting both our growth and the quality of our relationships. Emotional intelligence is not optional; it is essential for effective leadership and connection. Coaching develops advanced communication skills that prevent misunderstanding and strengthen trust. Intuition is an undervalued skill, coaching helps us to reconnect with it and reduce overthinking. In a world shaped by AI, coaching and human connection are the differentiators for future leaders. Coaching contributes to inclusive cultures and a genuine sense of belonging. A coaching mindset supports resilience, problem-solving, and wellbeing. Without coaching, we risk playing small, staying in old patterns, and never reaching our potential. The systemic risk is greater disconnection in workplaces and communities without coaching skills. Keywords Used: coaching skills, self-awareness, emotional intelligence, leadership development, communication skills, intuition, future of work, inclusion and belonging, resilience and wellbeing, risks of not being a coach Links & Resources: Coaching Quiz: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38215850

Transformational Listening as a Coach 09/08/2025

Transformational Listening as a Coach Do you really listen to ignite transformation, or are you listening to respond? When we think about our journey as a coach, one of the most powerful realisations has been that listening is not a passive act. It is an intentional, transformational choice that shapes the depth and quality of our conversations. In this episode we revisit listening as a critical coaching skill. Out of more than 200 episodes, we’ve only devoted 1 to listening before, which shows how easy it is to overlook this essential foundation of coaching. We explore what it means to listen not just with our ears but with our eyes, intuition, body, and presence. We reflect on Nancy Kline’s idea that listening well is not about preparing your next response but about igniting something in another person. From the earliest stage of self-focused listening to Otto Scharmer’s concept of generative listening, we walk through the levels of listening and share how they show up in coaching and everyday life. We reflect on moments when clients have asked us, “How did you know that?” They hadn’t explicitly told us something, but deep listening allowed us to hear what was unspoken. That level of listening is about creating a space where clients can feel deeply seen and heard, sometimes hearing themselves clearly for the first time in a long while. We also challenge the myth that one level of listening is “good” and another “bad”. Context matters. For example, neurodivergent clients may experience listening as most supportive when a coach shares something of their own in return. Listening, then, is not linear. It’s about attuning to the needs of the individual in front of you. This episode is both practical and reflective. We discuss summarising with the client’s own words, listening for emotion as well as content, and noticing the subtle shifts in tone, silence, or energy that can reveal deeper truths. Listening is not just about technique, it is about presence, compassion, and the courage to step aside so the client’s voice can emerge. If you’ve ever wondered what sets coaching apart from everyday conversation, this episode highlights why listening is the art and science at the heart of transformational coaching. Timestamps: 00:50 – Why listening is the foundation of coaching 01:20 – Nancy Kline’s perspective: listening to ignite, not to respond 03:11 – Listening with eyes, body, and intuition 05:02 – Helping clients hear themselves clearly 07:25 – Why context matters: different listening styles for different clients 10:40 – The difference between listening in coaching vs everyday conversation 13:28 – Listening beyond words: noticing silence, energy, and emotion 16:20 – The role of presence and unlearning in coaching conversations 19:36 – Giving clients time to find and hear their own voice 21:01 – Practising transformational listening in everyday life Key Lessons Learned: Listening is not about waiting to respond, it is about creating space for transformation. Different levels of listening exist, from self-focused to generative, and each has a place depending on context. Deep listening involves presence, intuition, and attention to both what is said and what is unsaid. Coaching requires unlearning conversational habits such as rushing to fix, summarising for ourselves, or inserting our own agenda. Presence and listening go hand in hand, true transformational listening helps clients reconnect with their own voice. Keywords: Transformational listening, levels of listening in coaching, Nancy Kline listening, generative listening, coaching skills, deep listening, presence in coaching, active listening techniques, emotional listening, effective coaching conversations, Links & Resources: Take the quiz to find the right coaching qualification for you: Join The Coaching Crowd Facebook community: search for /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38082710

How to Deepen Reflective Practice 09/01/2025

How to Deepen Reflective Practice Have you ever wondered how much deeper your coaching could go if you paused to reflect in a more intentional way? In this episode of The Coaching Crowd, we explore how reflective practice is the often-overlooked skill that truly elevates coaching. While questioning and listening skills usually get the spotlight, it is reflection that helps us to grow as coaches, find closure with clients, and unlock fresh insight. As we spoke, we found ourselves noticing how reflective practice is both a personal and professional discipline. It is not about criticising yourself for what you missed, but instead about compassionately noticing what you learned, how you showed up, and how you can expand your practice. We share a series of reflective questions that you can use for yourself or with your clients, such as: How am I feeling now? How present and attuned was I during that coaching session? What habits was I using, and what new experiments could I try next time? What biases or assumptions might have shaped how I showed up? Together, we explore the difference between reflecting in practice (while in session) and reflecting on practice (afterwards), and how both can help you become more present, more courageous, and more flexible as a coach. We also talk about how reflective practice can happen in different ways, through journaling, walking, recording your thoughts aloud, or even using creative prompts like music and drawing. One of our personal reflections from this conversation was how important it is to approach reflection with kindness. Growth does not come from berating yourself, but from curiosity and compassion. Reflective practice is a muscle, and with practice, it grows stronger. This episode is full of questions and perspectives that will help you deepen your practice, connect with your clients at a deeper level, and continue your journey of lifelong learning. Timestamps: 00:50 – Why reflective practice matters in coaching 02:12 – Reflecting in practice vs reflecting on practice 03:00 – Using body awareness as a catalyst for reflection 05:21 – Balancing solution-focus with presence 06:47 – The importance of compassion in reflection 08:34 – Exploring habits and courage in coaching 09:52 – The role of client feedback in reflective practice 11:14 – Finding your personal style of reflection 12:36 – Considering bias and self-development 14:25 – Reflection as a muscle to build over time 16:11 – Creative approaches to reflective practice 18:32 – Reflection as an ongoing process rather than quick clarity 19:23 – The role of CPD in deepening reflection 21:19 – Lifelong learning and growth as a coach Key Lessons Learned: Reflective practice is the foundation for deepening your coaching, beyond questioning and listening skills. Compassion and curiosity are essential, reflection should not become self-criticism. Presence, energy, and body awareness are powerful entry points for reflection. Exploring habits, courage, and biases helps coaches to avoid falling into fixed patterns. Creative methods such as drawing, music, or recording can unlock new layers of reflection. Reflection is not about finding instant answers, but about allowing insight to emerge over time. CPD and lifelong learning naturally deepen reflective practice. Keywords: reflective practice in coaching, coaching reflection questions, reflective skills for coaches, how to deepen reflective practice, coaching growth, reflective coaching techniques, presence in coaching, self-reflection for coaches, lifelong learning in coaching, reflective practice methods Links & Resources: Website: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/38038510

Maternity Coaching 08/25/2025

Maternity Coaching Have you ever found yourself torn between who you were before becoming a parent and the new identity that emerges after welcoming a child? In this episode we explore the deeply personal and transformative journey of maternity coaching. Becoming a parent is one of the biggest life transitions anyone can go through. We reflect on our own experience of having children while holding onto a strong ambition for our careers and the inner conflict that came with trying to reconcile those two worlds. We talk about the identity shifts that many parents face, the emotional complexities that can arise during maternity leave, and the challenges of returning to work in environments that may have changed significantly in your absence. Throughout the conversation, we reflect on how valuable maternity coaching would have been for us at that time. Having a confidential space to explore emotions, rebuild confidence, and navigate new responsibilities can be life-changing. We also expand the conversation to include parental coaching more broadly, recognising that transitions affect all caregivers, whether through adoption, shared parenting, or new family dynamics. Coaching can support individuals in building resilience, having courageous conversations with line managers, and re-establishing confidence in their professional and personal identities. This discussion highlighted for me how powerful coaching can be in safeguarding against burnout, improving employee engagement, and strengthening relationships at work. It left me appreciating maternity coaching not only as a personal lifeline but also as an organisational strategy that demonstrates care for people beyond their job role. Timestamps: 00:51 – Why maternity coaching matters 01:21 – Identity conflict after becoming a parent 03:39 – What maternity coaching looks like in practice 05:06 – Emotional and cognitive changes during maternity leave 06:28 – Rebuilding confidence when returning to work 07:48 – Benefits for organisations and leaders 09:13 – Extending to parental coaching more broadly 11:56 – Productivity shifts after becoming a parent 13:21 – Exploring systemic challenges 15:39 – Why maternity coaching signals organisational care 16:35 – Do we need to label it “maternity coaching”? 18:02 – Emotions coaching and life transitions 21:46 – Invitation to learn more through our Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training Key Lessons Learned Identity transformation is one of the most significant challenges during maternity leave. Maternity coaching offers a safe space to explore emotions without judgement. Coaching supports smoother transitions back to work, reducing overwhelm and burnout. Employers benefit through stronger engagement, productivity, and loyalty. Parental coaching is not limited to mothers, it extends to fathers, adoptive parents, and anyone navigating caregiving transitions. Coaching helps differentiate between personal beliefs and systemic realities in the workplace. Productivity often increases when parents return to work due to sharper focus and time management. Emotional coaching skills are essential for supporting clients during major life milestones. Keywords: maternity coaching, parental coaching, coaching for parents, identity shift after parenthood, return to work coaching, emotional coaching, workplace transitions, coaching for new parents, confidence after maternity leave, coaching in organisations, Links & Resources: Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37926250

How to Self Coach 08/18/2025

How to Self Coach Have you ever wondered how different life could feel if you were able to pause, step back, and coach yourself through challenges as they arise? In this episode we explore the practice of self-coaching, what it really means, how it works in everyday life, and why it is such a powerful tool for personal growth. As coaches, one of the greatest benefits of our training has been learning how to develop our own inner coach. This isn’t about striving for perfection or trying to be a “superhuman.” Instead, it’s about cultivating awareness, curiosity, and reflection in a way that allows us to step out of our experience long enough to gain a fresh perspective. We talk about the cues that signal when it’s time to coach ourselves, from moments of emotional intensity to times of great joy when we want to understand how to recreate that feeling. Jo shares how she has learned to notice when she is “in something” fully absorbed in an experience and how to hover above it, reflect, and gently question “what’s happening for me”? We explore a wide range of reflective questions that listeners can add to their own self-coaching toolkit, from belief-based and emotional check-in prompts, to deeper existential reflections. We highlight the importance of differentiating between genuine self-coaching and overthinking, and we talk about the need to balance reflection with action. Most of all, this conversation reminded us that self-coaching is about the relationship we choose to build with ourselves. Do we want to give energy to our inner critic, or nurture our inner coach? The quality of the questions we ask ourselves often determines whether we stay stuck or move forward. Whether you are a coach yourself or simply curious about bringing more reflective practice into your life, this episode offers both insight and practical tools to help you grow. Timestamps 00:47 – Why self-coaching matters when resources are limited 01:16 – Reflection and noticing: stepping outside your experience 03:04 – Core coaching elements that underpin self-coaching 04:31 – The myth of needing to self-coach all the time 05:25 – Learning from moments of joy and success 06:21 – Coaching methodologies that support self-reflection 07:46 – Expanding your self-coaching toolkit with powerful questions 09:14 – Emotional check-ins and boundaries 13:50 – Testing possibilities and taking small, safe steps 16:04 – Self-coaching vs overthinking: how to spot the difference 17:25 – Radical personal ownership and accountability 19:20 – Success criteria for effective self-coaching 20:17 – Choosing between your inner critic and your inner coach 21:11 – Our invitation for you to reflect, review, and share Key Lessons Learned Self-coaching is grounded in reflection, presence, and awareness, noticing when you need to step back and explore your experience differently. It is not about being “on” all the time; sometimes the most powerful growth happens when you simply sit in the messiness of life. The quality of the questions you ask yourself matters more than the complexity, simple, courageous questions often lead to the deepest insight. Emotional check-ins, belief exploration, and reflective questioning can help uncover hidden patterns and create space for new choices. Self-coaching requires balance between reflection and action; growth happens when insights are followed by meaningful steps forward. Developing an inner coach strengthens your relationship with yourself and can transform the way you navigate challenges. Keywords: Self-coaching, Coaching tools, Reflective practice, Inner coach, Emotional awareness, Personal growth, Coaching questions, Overthinking vs reflection, Coaching mindset, Radical ownership Links & Resources /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37850385

Co-coaching 08/11/2025

Co-coaching Have you ever wished you had a trusted partner by your side in your coaching work, someone who elevates your ideas, shares the load, and helps you grow in ways you could never achieve alone? In this episode of the podcast, we explore the concept of co-coaching. Co-coaching is about more than simply sharing a client group with another professional. It is about building a relationship of trust, alignment, and mutual respect that enhances both the client experience and your own development as a coach. We reflect on our own journey together; how we first met, the values that underpin our partnership, and the ways co-coaching has helped us take bolder steps, hold space for complex group dynamics, and recover quickly when our minds go blank. There is a special kind of magic that happens when you can bounce ideas off someone who gets you, challenges you, and sees possibilities you might miss on your own. We discuss the very real benefits of working alongside another coach, from sharing creative preparation and delivering richer sessions, to having another set of eyes and ears to spot what’s happening in the room. We share how co-coaching has supported us in debriefing after intense sessions, navigating moments of uncertainty, and modelling collaborative, respectful working relationships for our clients. There is also a strong business case for co-coaching. You gain access to each other’s networks, expand your reach, and benefit from shared opportunities. Beyond that, the joy of celebrating milestones together, and simply having fun, makes the work more fulfilling. Whether you are considering co-coaching for the first time or want to deepen an existing partnership, this episode offers insights into how to choose the right partner, maintain a healthy dynamic, and create experiences that benefit everyone involved. Timestamps: 00:39 – What co-coaching is and why it matters 02:27 – How idea-sharing elevates creativity and confidence 04:19 – Handling unexpected moments with authenticity 05:42 – Modelling collaboration for clients 06:36 – Choosing the right co-coach and aligning values 07:58 – The importance of debriefing after sessions 10:15 – Unique feedback opportunities through co-coaching 11:39 – Building connections and networks without competition 12:34 – The business benefits of shared audiences 13:58 – Celebrating milestones together and sustaining joy 15:50 – The flexibility of working together and independently 16:20 – How to explore co-coaching further through our training Key Lessons Learned: Co-coaching provides a unique platform for creativity, confidence, and mutual support. Alignment in values, goals, and ways of working is essential for a thriving partnership. Having another coach present allows you to see and respond to group dynamics more effectively. A healthy co-coaching relationship models collaboration and flexibility for clients. The debrief process after sessions is crucial for learning, closure, and moving forward. Co-coaching expands your professional network and brings business opportunities. Variety in working styles and personalities benefits clients and broadens learning. Joy, celebration, and camaraderie are powerful motivators for long-term collaboration. Co-coaching can offer emotional resilience by sharing both the highs and the challenges. Strong relationships often start in shared learning environments such as CPD programmes. Keywords: co-coaching, coaching partnerships, group coaching, team coaching, coach collaboration, professional coaching, coaching networks, coaching business growth, collaborative coaching, coach development, Links & Resources /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37749955

How to use Metaphors in Coaching 08/04/2025

How to use Metaphors in Coaching How can metaphor help your clients see themselves differently? Have you ever found yourself lost for words when trying to articulate how you feel? Or maybe you've worked with a coaching client who struggles to express their experience? In those moments, metaphors can open up powerful new pathways. In this episode, we explore the art and practice of using metaphor in coaching. It’s a topic we’ve touched on before, but today we wanted to really dive in. Metaphors are more than clever imagery, they’re a bridge to the unconscious, a creative tool for insight, and often, a much gentler route into emotional exploration. Jo has always loved metaphors. I’ll admit, I used to roll my eyes when she brought them up, early in my coaching journey, I didn’t see their value. But over time, I’ve grown to love them, not just as a coaching technique, but as a deeply human way of understanding and being understood. We talk about the science and soul of metaphor: how it can help clients shift stuck energy, bypass logic, and reflect on difficult or unknown emotions in a more depersonalised way. Whether a client says they feel like they’re “carrying a heavy backpack” or “climbing a mountain”, those metaphors reveal something essential. This episode is filled with real coaching examples and reflections. We discuss clean language, the visual nature of metaphor, and how sometimes our own intuitive imagery as coaches can become powerful tools for client insight. We also touch on: How to deepen and explore a client’s metaphor The importance of timing and sensitivity What to do when a client brings a metaphor back into future sessions And how metaphors can become anchors, guiding a client’s growth long after the session ends Metaphors are not about being clever, they’re about connecting. And as we reflect on our experiences and share some memorable client stories, we hope this conversation inspires you to listen more closely to the metaphors your clients offer, and perhaps even the ones that arise within you. Timestamps: 00:28 – Why metaphors matter in coaching 01:23 – Zoe’s journey from scepticism to love for metaphor 02:22 – Moving beyond logic: using metaphor to unlock stuckness 03:18 – Working with client-generated metaphors 04:42 – How metaphors shift energy and enable playfulness 06:10 – Depersonalisation and the power of symbolic language 07:35 – Metaphor as language for growth between sessions 08:57 – The client who visualised their journey through art 09:26 – Visualisation and emotional metaphor in coaching 10:47 – Tips for noticing and using metaphor in session 12:38 – Creating movement and reconnecting with session goals 14:32 – Coach-generated metaphors and intuitive imagery 16:31 – When metaphors work best: even with 'non-visual' clients 17:26 – Anchoring emotion and experience with metaphor 18:54 – Why metaphor accelerates understanding and insight 20:49 – Using metaphor when clients want to remain private Key Lessons Learned: Metaphors allow clients to express deep emotions without needing to verbalise them directly They can help bypass logical resistance and tap into the unconscious mind Clean language is a powerful tool for exploring client-originated metaphors Visual and symbolic metaphors can become long-term anchors for growth Coaches can offer their own intuitive metaphors to enrich the dialogue—but only when the client is ready Keywords: metaphor in coaching, clean language coaching, using metaphors with clients, symbolic coaching techniques, coaching tools for emotions, how to use metaphor in therapy, coaching metaphors examples, unconscious mind in coaching, visual coaching techniques, coaching confidence with metaphor, Links & Resources: Emotions Coaching: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37654180

5 Types of Reframing in Coaching Conversations 07/28/2025

5 Types of Reframing in Coaching Conversations Are you stuck seeing a situation in only one way? That question is at the heart of this week’s conversation, where we explore the powerful coaching skill of reframing, the gentle art of helping someone shift their perspective and unlock new possibilities. In this episode, we dive into the essence of reframing, what it is, why it matters, and how it can bring transformation in coaching conversations, leadership, and everyday life. We reflect on how reframing isn’t about ignoring facts or bypassing emotion, but about opening up the lens to see a challenge from a more empowering viewpoint. Zoe was reminded of the times when a simple reframe from Jo had disrupted her own thinking, like during a long car journey when she was convinced Jo couldn’t buy a house, and by the end, felt completely differently. Reframing can be that subtle nudge that opens up resourcefulness, choice, and ownership. We explore five types of reframing: Context Reframes; shifting the circumstances in which something is viewed Content Reframes; changing the meaning assigned to an experience Positive Intent Reframes; identifying the good intention behind behaviour Systemic Reframes; zooming out to consider relationships and environments Temporal Reframes; introducing time as a tool to gain distance and clarity What I loved most about this episode was reflecting on how everyday reframes, whether in coaching, parenting, or leadership, are already part of our lives. And when we bring awareness, sensitivity, and timing to them, they can become incredibly effective tools for transformation. Whether you’re a coach, manager, or simply someone curious about human behaviour, this episode will deepen your understanding of how reframing can cultivate emotional agility, confidence, and self-leadership. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to reframing and its purpose in coaching 01:25 – Getting stuck in thinking and how reframing unlocks options 04:12 – Real-life example of reframing during a conversation 06:32 – The emotional shift and reclaiming ownership through reframing 07:27 – What makes reframing different from asking questions 09:26 – Five types of reframes introduced 10:47 – When not to reframe: importance of timing and sensitivity 12:12 – Reframing self-judgement and guilt (e.g. being “too controlling”) 16:04 – The positive intent behind perfectionism 19:16 – Systemic reframes and reframing conflict within a team 22:08 – Time/temporal reframes and the value of future or past perspective 24:17 – Everyday leadership uses of reframing 25:15 – Deep presence and listening for meaning as a foundation for reframing Key Lessons Learned: Reframing is about shifting meaning, not denying reality Timing is everything: don’t rush a reframe when emotions are raw Coaches should stay unattached to whether a reframe “lands” or not There are multiple types of reframes; context, content, positive intent, systemic, and time-based Leaders can use reframing to support change, conflict, and morale in teams Reframing helps people reconnect with strengths, possibilities, and self-compassion Everyday reframes already exist in our language, we can choose to use them more consciously “What if” questions are powerful reframe starters Listening for assumptions and belief patterns helps shape relevant reframes Coaching skills like reframing support flexibility, meaning-making, and resilience Keywords: Reframing in coaching, Emotional coaching, Confidence building, Coaching skills for leaders, Systemic reframing, Coaching mindset, Cognitive flexibility, Positive intent, Coaching techniques, Meaning-making in coaching, Links & Resources – Quiz: Which coaching course is right for me? · Coaching Summit 2025: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37574075

Importance of DEIB in Coaching 07/21/2025

Importance of DEIB in Coaching How do we create truly inclusive coaching spaces where everyone feels a sense of belonging? In this episode we reflect on the role of coaches in fostering environments rooted in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). As we prepared for our upcoming Coaching Summit, it felt important to open this conversation up to share our own insights and challenges around this essential topic. When we think about DEIB in coaching, we are reminded that this is not about achieving perfection or ticking boxes. Instead, it’s about holding curiosity and awareness for the lived experiences and identities our clients bring into the coaching space. We discuss how our own identities, privileges, and unconscious biases influence not only who we are as coaches but also how we create the coaching environment. Throughout the episode, we I reflect on why this work matters so deeply to us personally. Our own motivation comes from recognising the privilege we have experienced throughout our lives. We are driven by a desire to create spaces where people feel seen, valued, and able to be their whole selves. We break down what diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging mean within a coaching context: Diversity: Acknowledging the broad range of identities and lived experiences. Equity: Recognising not everyone starts from the same place and ensuring fair access. Inclusion: Intentionally creating spaces where people feel respected and heard. Belonging: Moving beyond inclusion to that felt sense of connection and acceptance. These are not abstract concepts for us, they sit at the heart of how we approach coaching, particularly in group or team settings where systemic influences are more pronounced. We also explore the discomfort coaches may feel: the fear of ‘getting it wrong’ or unintentionally causing harm. But avoiding these conversations entirely is not the answer. We encourage leaning into bravery, curiosity, and reflective practice. We discuss: How to navigate conversations about identity, privilege, and systems with sensitivity and openness. The role of supervision in supporting us to notice when our biases show up. The importance of language and accessibility in creating inclusive spaces. The ethical tensions that can arise when coaching within organisations still rooted in inequality. Ultimately, this episode is about growth over perfection. DEIB is a lifelong commitment, one where our openness to learning will shape the impact we have as coaches. We hope this conversation invites you to reflect on your own practice and inspires you to take small, meaningful steps towards deeper inclusion. If this resonates with you, you are warmly invited to join us for our upcoming Coaching Summit on 29th July, where we will be exploring DEIB in coaching even further. You can register here: Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to DEIB in coaching 01:00 Why this topic matters to us 03:20 Defining diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging 05:00 How our identities shape the coaching space 06:40 Systemic influences in coaching conversations 09:00 Asking powerful, inclusive questions 12:00 Navigating judgement and bias as a coach 14:30 The role of supervision in DEIB practice 16:00 Permission, language, and accessibility 18:00 Moving from performative allyship to authentic action 20:30 Ethical tensions in organisational coaching 22:00 Why coaching is not always neutral 23:00 Invitation to continue the conversation at the Summit Key Lessons Learned: DEIB is not about perfection but about intentional, ongoing learning. Our identities and biases influence the coaching space, whether we are conscious of it or not. Inclusive coaching requires bravery, curiosity, and reflective practice. Asking thoughtful, open questions can invite deeper reflection on identity and systemic influences. Supervision is a vital tool for exploring blind spots and deepening our DEIB practice. Keywords: Diversity in coaching, Equity in coaching, Inclusion coaching conversations, Belonging in coaching, Inclusive coaching spaces, Coaching and unconscious bias, Coaching and privilege, Brave spaces in coaching, Systemic influences in coaching, Coaching summit on DEIB, Links & Resources Coaching Summit 2025: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37469400

Co-regulation in Coaching 07/14/2025

Co-regulation in Coaching How aware are you of the silent signals you bring into your coaching conversations? In this episode, we explore the subtle yet transformational role that co-regulation plays in coaching. Reflecting on our own experiences as coaches, we discuss how this often-overlooked aspect of human connection helps to create a foundation of psychological and emotional safety within the coaching relationship. Through this conversation, we reflect on how co-regulation is less about the words we say and more about the energy we bring into the space. It's about how we use our body language, breathing, and tone of voice to invite our clients into a settled, grounded state. It is about offering a felt sense of safety, presence, and acceptance, where a client can relax into being themselves without performance or pretence. We delve into the ways we can notice our own state as coaches, how regulated or dysregulated we are as we show up for our clients. It's not about striving for perfection but about understanding that our nervous systems communicate silently and that presence matters. We reflect on how crucial it is to meet clients where they are and to use our own energy consciously. Whether through slowing down our breathing, adjusting our tone, or holding silence, these are invitations for the client to settle too. The conversation touches on the polyvagal theory and how the nervous system craves connection. We speak about the science and humanity behind why co-regulation creates deeper, more transformative coaching conversations. It's not just about the questions we ask but about the energy we hold. Coaching becomes an oasis, a rare place where clients can breathe and simply be. We share practical ways to cultivate this co-regulation through grounding exercises, breathwork, reflective questions, and conscious awareness of our voice and body language. These seemingly small actions have the power to radically change the quality of connection and depth in coaching. If you have ever wondered why your clients say, "I feel so calm after talking to you," this episode offers insight into why that happens and how you can deepen this skill intentionally. Timestamps: 00:00 – What is co-regulation? 01:00 – The importance of nervous system awareness in coaching 03:30 – Psychological safety as a felt experience 05:15 – Meeting clients where they are energetically 07:40 – How coaches can anchor the coaching space 10:50 – Clean energy versus calm energy 14:40 – Tools for co-regulation: voice, breathing, body awareness 16:30 – Reflective practice and knowing your own regulation 18:00 – The impact of body language and silence 22:00 – Simple practices to support co-regulation in sessions 24:30 – Being trauma-informed in coaching conversations Key Lessons Learned: Co-regulation is about being present with another’s energy, not fixing it Psychological safety is created through how we hold space, not only through words Breath, tone of voice, and body language are tools for inviting calm connection Our own regulation as coaches directly influences the client’s experience Silence and stillness are powerful in inviting a client into a reflective space Keywords: Co-regulation in coaching, Psychological safety in coaching, Nervous system awareness, Coaching presence, Breathwork in coaching, Trauma-informed coaching, Energy in coaching conversations, Polyvagal theory coaching, Building rapport in coaching, Reflective coaching practice Links & Resources: · Summit: Our Website: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37390445

Contradictions in Coaching 07/07/2025

Contradictions in Coaching Have you ever felt confused by seemingly conflicting messages in your coaching journey? Whether you’re training to become a coach, have been in practice for years, or are simply curious about coaching, you’ve probably come across contradictions that make you pause and wonder: Is this right? Or is it wrong? Or… could it be both? In this episode we dive into some of the most common contradictions that coaches face, especially during training and development. We reflect on the nuances we encounter as coach trainers and practitioners, unpicking the complexities of coaching goals, non-directiveness, sharing of self, professional boundaries, and the role of structure versus fluidity. This episode was such a joy to record because it gave us space to validate the “messy middle” where so many coaches find themselves. That tension between learning the rules and evolving beyond them. It reminded me of how deeply coaching is rooted in conscious choice, relationship, and reflection. From the irony of learning rigid frameworks only to outgrow them, to the beauty of coaching mastery as an art of flow and discernment, this episode is all about embracing paradox. If you're someone who finds themselves craving clarity while swimming in contradiction, you’ll likely feel seen here. We also talk about the journey of personal growth alongside professional development, how who we are as people directly influences who we become as coaches. There are no hard and fast rules, and that’s both liberating and confronting. We hope this conversation helps you feel a little more grounded in the uncertainty, and even a little more curious. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: Why contradictions in coaching matter 01:00 – The goals paradox: clarity at the start… or at the end? 05:15 – Is coaching really non-directive? 08:35 – When and how to share your own experience as a coach 13:25 – What clients actually need and how this impacts your role 16:00 – Coaching bodies and different competency frameworks 17:40 – The craving for models: structure, freedom, and finding your style 22:00 – What coaching mastery really looks like 23:45 – Clients bring contradictions too 24:40 – Final reflections and invitation to explore coaching further Key Lessons Learned: Goals aren’t always clear at the start and sometimes clarity is the goal. Non-directiveness is a principle, not a rule; conscious choice is the key. Self-disclosure can build connection when used with intention and care. Frameworks and models are useful, until they become restrictive. Mastery lies in flexibility, knowing when to hold structure and when to release it. Clients themselves live in contradiction, and your role is to help them make sense of that tension. Coaching isn’t just future-focused, it often invites reflection on the past. There are many paths to being a great coach and none of them are identical. Keywords: coaching contradictions, non-directive coaching, coaching goals, coaching frameworks, coaching training UK, becoming a coach, coaching vs mentoring, emotional coaching, self-disclosure in coaching, coaching mastery, Links & Resources: – Take the quiz and explore our coaching training programmes /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37293575

Why is Everyone Training to be a Coach 06/30/2025

Why is Everyone Training to be a Coach Have you ever found yourself wondering why so many people are suddenly becoming coaches? What’s drawing them in, and what are they finding once they’re there? In this episode we reflect on a question we’re often asked: “Why is everyone training to be a coach?” And the truth is, it’s a powerful question with many deeply personal and professional answers. This is a warm, grounded, and honest discussion between the two of us as co-hosts, coaching trainers, and long-time practitioners. We unpack the inner and outer reasons why coaching is booming, from the “life hack” of increased self-awareness to the ripple effect it has on careers, relationships, and wellbeing. We share our own stories and insights about: Why coaching is becoming more than just a career path, it's a form of self-expression, healing, and contribution How coaching training creates a sense of community and deep human connection The irreplaceable power of coaching in a world increasingly dominated by AI and automation How people are discovering peace, confidence, and clarity through coaching training The difference between facilitated and self-guided programmes and why that matters We also explore the soulful, spiritual side of coaching, what it means to be attuned to yourself and others, how it lights people up from the inside, and why so many of our trainees say they’ve “found what they’ve been looking for.” Whether you’re considering becoming a coach yourself or you’re just curious about what’s fuelling this global movement, we hope this conversation offers insight, clarity, and maybe even a spark of inspiration. Timestamps: 00:47 – The ‘life hack’ of coach training and why people tell everyone about it. 02:14 – How coaching strengthens career prospects and relationships at work. 03:37 – Surprising personal benefits, even in dating and family life. 05:22 – Coaching as a decision-making and confidence-building tool. 06:49 – Why coaching is an essential skill in an AI-driven world. 09:34 – When coach training becomes a route to healing and self-discovery 12:15 – “AI for the soul” and other powerful reflections on the heart of coaching. Key Lessons Learned Coaching training is a powerful gateway to personal transformation, not just professional development Deep self-awareness, boundary-setting, and emotional clarity are common outcomes of coach training Coaching prepares leaders for a future shaped by AI by amplifying essential human skills The sense of community and shared purpose in a coaching cohort is deeply nourishing People are drawn to coaching because it helps them find meaning, peace, and a way to contribute to others Keywords: train to be a coach, coaching training programmes, become a coach UK, why become a coach, coaching and self-awareness, coaching for leaders, AI and coaching, coaching for wellbeing, personal growth through coaching, human connection in coaching Links & Resources: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37208475

Emotions Coaching Demo 06/23/2025

Emotions Coaching Demo Ever wondered what it really looks like to hold safe, structured, and powerful space for emotions in a coaching session? In this episode we did something we’ve not done in a long time on the podcast, we brought you inside a real-life coaching demonstration, using one of the techniques from our Emotions Coaching Practitioner Programme. The session is a genuine conversation between us, non-scripted, not rehearsed. Just Jo as the coachee, working through a very real, emotionally loaded decision: whether or not to say yes to buying a new home. We use the EMOTION coaching model, a semi-structured framework that walks through: E — Engaging the emotional coaching contract M — Making contact (somatic/emotional awareness) O — Exploring the opportunity T — Connecting with thoughts I — Exploring intuition O — Outcomes N — What’s needed now This demo is about more than just the house. It’s a window into how emotion-based coaching can support real-life decision-making, personal growth, and clarity, without pressure or prescription. If you found this demo insightful, whether as a coach or as someone exploring their own emotions check out our Emotions Coaching Practitioner Programme. You’ll learn how to safely support clients through deep, meaningful conversations, using structure without script. We’d love to hear what insights this brought up for you. Let us know! Key Lessons Learned: Emotions are never “too much”, they’re powerful sources of insight when held safely. Coaching doesn’t need to fix, it needs to create space. Body wisdom holds emotional truth, pay attention to sensations. A structured model can support emotional freedom, not restrict it. You don’t need a solution, just clarity and the ability to feel. Trust your intuition, it’s more grounded than we realise. Coaching demos are powerful tools for learning, both as a coach and a coachee. Keywords: emotions coaching demo, how to coach emotions, coaching demonstrations, EMOTION coaching model, emotions coaching practitioner training, live coaching example, decision-making in coaching, emotional regulation in coaching, somatic coaching techniques, emotion-focused coaching skills, Links: Watch another emotions coaching demo: /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37102070

How to Grow your Confidence as a Coach 06/16/2025

How to Grow your Confidence as a Coach Are you a coach who secretly wonders if you’re “doing it right”? You’re not alone, and this episode is for you. In this episode we unpack a topic that nearly every coach wrestles with at some point: CONFIDENCE. Whether you're just starting out or years into your practice, it's normal to question yourself, "Am I doing this right?" "Could I be better?" We see it time and again in our training rooms and our own journeys, that shaky moment when you step into the coaching seat and doubt creeps in. In this episode we cover: Confidence is fluid: It changes over time and across clients; uncertainty may stem from the coaching dynamic, not just your ability. Lean on trusted peers: Having another coach to talk to is invaluable, especially when supervision isn't immediately available. Acknowledge competence gaps: Confidence and competence go hand in hand; recognise where you need to grow your skills and take action. Choose aligned training programmes: Confidence flourishes in learning environments that align with your values, energy, and coaching style. Know and own your coaching style: Understanding your natural style helps reduce comparison and builds authentic confidence. Stretch yourself with CPD and variety: Try different coaching formats, durations, and approaches to expand your ability and confidence. Seek intentional feedback: Ask for meaningful, specific feedback to grow in areas where you feel uncertain. This episode is full of lived experience, reassurance, and practical steps. Confidence doesn’t arrive all at once, it’s grown, session by session, conversation by conversation. If you're feeling unsure or stuck in self-doubt, you're not alone. Confidence is something we build through the work, not before it. Whether you need CPD, supervision, peer support, or just a community of coaches who get it, we’re here for you. Explore more at And if this episode helped, drop us a message. We love hearing from you. Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction: Why confidence matters for coaches 02:10 — Feeling confident with some clients but not others 06:15 — The power of coaching peers and quick support 09:20 — Contracts, competence, and admin: the hidden confidence killers 13:35 — The importance of choosing coach training aligned with your values 20:50 — Stop comparing: Know and own your coaching style 24:10 — CPD, supervision, play, and expanding your skills 30:35 — Intentional feedback and how to ask for it Keywords: how to grow confidence as a coach, coaching confidence tips, building coaching skills, coaching supervision for new coaches, choosing the right coach training, peer support for coaches, reflective practice coaching. coaching style self-awareness, CPD for coaches, coaching feedback techniques Links: All coaching programmes mentioned (Emotions Coaching, Neurodivergent Inclusive Coaching, CPD, Foundations to Masters): /episode/index/show/coachingcrowd2021/id/37015450

The Coaching Crowd® Podcast with Jo Wheatley & Zoe Hawkins

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