STaR Coach Show

We learn best when we are actively building and creating. Think Legos! All coaching is fundamentally play, and purposeful play transforms leadership development. Today’s guest is a certified hands-on thinking coach who brings Lego bricks into executive coaching sessions. He shares the neuroscience and learning theory behind why play isn’t frivolous but is essential for discovery, practice, and innovation. Learn how to integrate object play and constructionism into your coaching practice to help clients move from abstract thinking to concrete insights, particularly with neurodiverse populations and leaders who live too much in their heads. Are you ready to discover new techniques that might transform your work with your clients? Join us to learn more!Paul Sanbar is an Ingenuity + Leadership Coach, certified coach supervisor, and hands-on visual thinking facilitator. He has dedicated himself to the field of self-development and to effecting positive change through purposeful play, storytelling, and powerful conversations. He was a humanistic-Gestalt psychotherapist and is now an ICF-accredited Master Certified Coach, EMCC-accredited coach supervisor, and senior practitioner. Show Highlights:Play and coaching: How are they related?“Coaching gives clients a chance to suspend reality and just play.”Understanding “purposeful play” (also called “serious play”) in executive coaching, as it relates to how we played as children The value of attunement playConstructivism and constructionismPaul’s method of introducing object play into organizational coaching (Understanding the liminal space between “what is” and “what if”)Multi-modal learning helps us use multiple intelligences.Metaphors allow us to relate to and understand the world.Using Legos (and mini-figures) to build our thoughts and ascribe meaning to themThe hands-on thinking coach methodologyFeedback from coaches who are learning Paul’s play techniques as an enhancement to other coaching techniquesModern consequences of play deprivation—for kids and adultsThe truth: “We are all still kids.”Paul’s key takeaway about play methodologyResources:Connect with Paul SanbarLinktreeLinkedInConnect with Meg:Explore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. We are enrolling NOW for this spring!Subscribe to the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel!Explore over 480 past episodes and other helpful resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

Trust is everything in the coach-client relationship. In this solo episode, Meg explores “The Trust Triangle,” a three-dimensional framework that reframes trust in coaching beyond simply the coach-client relationship. Drawing on client stories and 17+ years of teaching coaches, Meg breaks down the three interconnected dimensions of trust that determine whether coaching truly creates transformation: the relational trust between coach and client, the client’s trust in themselves, and the client’s trust in the coaching process. You’ll learn practical strategies for assessing, strengthening, and protecting each dimension, along with an understanding of how these strategies provide coaches with a powerful diagnostic tool when sessions feel stuck. Join us to learn more!Show Highlights:Understanding three dimensions of trust:The trust between coach and clientMutual respect and trust are built with presence, consistency, confidentiality, appropriate boundaries, and honest authenticity.Things that erode trust: breaking confidentiality, being inconsistent, focusing on our own needs, defensiveness, trying to fix or rescue a client, overfunctioningMeg’s tips for applying these principles to build trustThe client’s trust in themselvesFully stepping into the coaching process and moving from insight into action requires the client to trust themselves.Building self-trust in your client happens when they fully access their inner knowledge, hold space to celebrate micro-wins, reframe failures as data, and normalize the “messy middle.”Things that erode self-trust: a coach who gives advice, rescues a client from discomfort, and is too attached to the client’s successMeg’s tips for building the client’s self-trustTrust in the coaching processIt’s a challenge to leave our expertise at the door and let the client be the expert in their life.Building process-trust depends on how we set the stage with clear expectations, help create early wins, make the “invisible” become visible, and be transparent about the process.Things that erode a client’s trust in the process: meandering sessions, abstract/philosophical coaching full of promises that can’t be kept, and having no structure or clear coaching agreementMeg’s tips for building trust in the coaching process (Begin with a clear coaching agreement!)The trust triangle gives the coach a new perspective (a measuring stick) to explore and be curious about what’s going on with the client. Meg explains how to use the triangle as a diagnostic tool.Hear Meg’s practical strategies for leaning into each leg of the trust triangle through rapport-building, reflecting wisdom, and connecting insights to action.Today’s key takeaway: “Trust isn’t singular in coaching—it’s triangular. Your job is to pay attention to all three dimensions.”Resources:Mentioned in this episode: STaR Coach Show, Episode 124 and STaR Coach Show, Episode 131Connect with MegExplore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. We are enrolling NOW for this spring!Subscribe to the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel!Explore over 480 past episodes and other helpful resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com.Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

Today’s conversation will transform your thinking about emotions. Instead of viewing emotions as negative experiences to push away or control, our guest helps us understand them as our body’s guidance system, much like a compass that helps us navigate. Fear and anger, often thought of as negative emotions, are the body’s survival mechanisms that are designed to protect our lives. You’ll discover practical insights on recognizing physical sensations, befriending your feelings, and using emotional intelligence to become a better coach and leader. Want to know more about relating to your own emotions and showing up as your best for your clients? Join us to learn more!Joie Seldon, MA, is the founder of the Emotional Evolution Institute and the author of Emotions: An Owner's Manual. An innovator in emotional intelligence, she is a life and professional success coach and EQ trainer. She has worked with clients at NASA, AT&T, Wells Fargo, Blue Shield, Dolby, and others. Her clients range from tech professionals and healthcare workers to C-suite executives. With 25 years of experience as an actor and acting teacher, 10 years as a somatic psychology therapist, and a lifetime of personal growth engagement, Joie has developed an innovative approach to teaching people how to release limiting behaviors and use their emotions as the powerful guidance system they are meant to be.Show Highlights:Misconceptions, judgments, and misunderstandings about emotionsGrowing the relationship with your emotions, especially fear and anger, by recognizing and tolerating the sensations you experienceOur feelings and thinking have to work together.The message of fear is “pay attention.”The results when people shift their perspective on emotionsDealing with emotions that arise in coaching conversationsUnderstanding the difference between stress tears and sad tearsThe value of taking private time to process your grief and effectively giving others space for their grief and discomfortA coach’s job is not to rescue or “fix”; everyone just wants to be seen and heard.Joie’s top “Aha moments” with clientsWhat coaches should understand about emotions being used as a compass“Emotions are energy in motion.” (Be curious about emotions.)Joie’s key takeaway for listeners: “Emotions are the link between the tangible and intangible. Pay attention to how you feel, and listen to what information emotions give you. Feeling your emotions will ultimately bring you more joy.”Resources:Connect with Joie SeldonWebsite, YouTube, and Emotions Owner's Manual (Kindle Edition)Connect with MegExplore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. We are enrolling NOW for this spring!Subscribe to the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com.Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

Today’s episode features a fascinating, transformational story of death–and a second chance at life. You’ll discover how purpose-driven leadership creates both personal fulfillment and organizational success. You’ll hear practical wisdom for leaders seeking significance over success and learn how generosity transforms leadership. This conversation will challenge your ideas about success, significance, and what truly matters in life, while also showing why having an “elevator person” might be the most important leadership skill you never learned in business school. Whatever your leadership role, this episode will motivate you to stop waiting and start living with real intention. Join us now!Bill Goodwin has over 30 years of leadership experience in developing individuals and teams, backed by proven leadership training and dynamic speaking for growth. As a Maxwell Leadership Executive Team Member, Bill is a speaker, leadership coach, and author. He is the founder of the Priority Living Consulting Group. His new book, Priority Living: 7 Pillars to Make Your Life Count, is derived from the backstory of Bill’s November 23, 1999, experience of acute respiratory failure. Being given a second chance has changed his life, and his wisdom could change yours, too.Show Highlights:The story of Bill’s death on November 23, 1999“How do I make my life count?” (Bill’s Priority Living Framework)An overview of Bill’s book, Priority Living7 Pillars to Make Your Life Count:Purpose–Turn your passion into impact.Growth–Be better today than you were yesterday.Impact–Do small things to create big waves.Rhythm–Build a life, not a schedule.Explore–Chase wonder and adventure.Connect–Relationships matter most.Give–The more you give, the more you grow. Live generously.People are hungry for professional development that invests in people.Bill’s gift to SCS listeners: a free chapter of his book (Click here.)Words of wisdom from Bill: “Be an ‘elevator person’ today.”Resources:Connect with Bill Goodwin: Website, Facebook, LinkedIn, Priority Living: 7 Pillars to Make Your Life Count, and get a FREE CHAPTER of Bill’s book.Connect with MegExplore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. We are enrolling NOW for this spring!Subscribe to the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com.Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

Mentoring is a topic many coaches misunderstand, as they approach it reluctantly as another requirement in their credentialing process. In truth, mentoring is an opportunity, a gift, and a chance to sharpen our skills, break free from old habits, and continue our evolution as coaches. Mentoring is a valuable, transformational process that helps us identify our blind spots and expand our capacity. In this episode, you’ll hear insights about coaching presence in the mentoring process, along with how to approach your coaching growth with humility and curiosity. Join us to learn more!Carly Anderson is a Master Certified Coach who has been continuously active as an ICF assessor for MCC, PCC, and ACC since 2005. She has carried this heavy load as an assessor, giving back to our profession and helping numerous coaches advance in the field. She has personally mentored over 200 coaches who have earned their MCC credential. Show Highlights:Carly’s perspective on 20 years as an ICF assessor, which she calls “the greatest joy of my life.”The value of mentor coachingKey takeaways from Carly’s mentor coaching roleBeing present in mentoring without judgmentUsing “practices” to stay focused in mentoring: something tactile to hold, breathing exercises, hot yoga, chiropractic, massage, etc. The benefits of both group and individual mentoringDifferences between mentor coaching and supervised coachingHelping coaches develop their own styleThe value of listening to your own coaching recordings to help you be the best you can beCarly’s tips for getting the most out of your recordings and using reflection without judgmentThe #1 takeaway from today’s episode for being the most present as a mentor coachResources:Connect with Carly Anderson: WebsiteConnect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. New dates have been added for 2026!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

How are your “artful interruption” skills? This is a challenging yet essential skill for countering advice-giving patterns when facilitating coaching circles, peer learning groups, or team meetings. Inspired by a former student’s question about redirecting well-intentioned advice-givers without disrupting group dynamics, Meg provides practical strategies for facilitators who want to cultivate curiosity over knowing in group settings. By introducing the “two muscle framework,” along with specific techniques, visual cues, and verbal redirects, Meg demonstrates how to protect the coaching space and help people discover their own solutions. Learn how you can help safeguard space for learning and discovery! Join us to learn more!Show Highlights:The challenge of incorporating polite, thoughtful interruptions into a coaching culture: Why is this an essential and highly relevant topic in today’s coaching space?Understanding the two-muscle framework: the “knowing muscle” and the “curiosity muscle” (We short-circuit the creative process when we rush in with answers and advice)Advice-giving in groups is problematic in several specific ways. Setting the stage before the first session with non-negotiables:Pre-frame the purpose and agreements. Explain the “muscle” metaphor.Model what “good” looks like.Create psychological safety around interruption.Address the elephant in the room by naming what makes this challenging to do.The Facilitator’s Toolkit, Six Specific Strategies for Interrupting Skillfully:The Appreciative Redirect (Acknowledge, redirect, and teach)The Pause and Pivot (Put your idea in the “parking lot” to give them time to think through and explore.)Visual Cues and Signals (These can be fun with card signals, the “muscle-flex” gesture, and a “parking lot” for ideas. Meg even has suggestions for using these with virtual meetings.)The Pattern Interrupt with Choice (Give agency while redirecting behavior.)Reflection Break (This is where the deepest learning happens.)The Question Upgrade (This is teaching in real-time.)Understanding when stepping in with advice and expertise is valuable (Use both/and thinking about coaching vs. advising.)A measuring stick question: “What creates more lasting impact, being told or discovering?”Practical tips for implementation:Start with shorter rounds.Pick 1-2 visual cues that work well with your group.Have a co-facilitator.Debrief after every session.Celebrate improvement.Track progress tangibly.Rotate the facilitator role when your group gains experience.Create a question bank resource.Build in application.Be patient with yourself and the group. Meg’s important takeaways about artful interruptionMeg’s challenge for you this weekResources:Connect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. New dates have been added for 2026!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

Today’s episode tackles one of the most common workplace challenges: How do you lead effectively when people don’t report to you? My expert guest, a former coaching student of mine, reveals the hard-won lessons that transformed her approach to organizational change and unpacks practical strategies for motivating teams, navigating resistance, and creating real impact through influence rather than authority. Whether you’re a project manager, change leader, coach, or anyone tasked with getting things done across organizational silos, this conversation offers actionable frameworks for building collaboration instead of confrontation. In addition, my guest pulls back the curtain on the writing process and shares helpful tips for aspiring writers. Join us to learn more!Michelle Pauk is the author of Build a Golden Bridge: How to Lead Change When You're Not in Charge, and the founder of Streamside Coaching, a boutique coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations lead change and build collaborative cultures. Her clients include executives and change agents at Fortune 100s, non-profits, and fast-growing startups. A Professional Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation, Michelle holds a master’s degree in leadership and organizational development. Show Highlights:Filtering through the chatter when deciding to write a book: how Michelle brought her ideas and vision to life in Build a Golden BridgeMichelle’s writing process: how she began to create content and structure for the first draftDecisions around publishing (“Finishing the writing process means you’re about ⅓ of the way through.”)Michelle’s vision and goals in writing her bookThree gaps in the way we navigate change:Self-awarenessEmpathyCommunicationLetting go of assumptions to bridge the communication gapLooking for commonality over confrontation and ways to preserve dignity (Michelle explains the metaphor of “the golden bridge.”)Michelle’s takeaway thoughts Resources:Connect with Michelle Pauk: Website, LinkedIn, and Build a Golden BridgeConnect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. New dates have been added for 2026!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

The message in today’s episode is clear: leaders need new skills for navigating complexity, change, and the human aspects of work in modern times. The COVID-19 pandemic changed everything, and leaders must change with the times. Instead of “having all the answers,” leaders should leverage coaching competencies to transform their leadership effectiveness and become collaborative problem-solvers with their teams. In today’s compelling conversation, you’ll discover how curiosity beats assumption, how presence creates connection, and why collaboration might be THE most under-utilized leadership tool out there. Join us for practical insights you can use immediately!Dr. Damian Goldvarg, MCC, has 35 years of experience providing executive coaching, leadership training, and facilitation in more than 50 countries. As an esteemed coaching expert and the recipient of numerous accolades, he has been an ICF Assessor for 10 years and was the 2013-2014 International Coach Federation Global President. He has published multiple books on coaching-related topics, including his 2025 release, Lead with a Coaching Mindset: How the Best Leaders Unlock Potential. Show Highlights:After so many books, why this one NOW?The book’s alignment with the ICF’s coaching competenciesA coaching mindset definedThe sad facts about engagement at work: How can we change this?The benefits of leading with a coaching mindset–for leaders, teams, and the workplace cultureThe 8 ICF Core Competencies translated into practical leadership skills:Demonstrating Ethical Practice: Building trust through integrity and confidentialityEmbodying a Coaching Mindset: Maintaining curiosity and development focusEstablishing and Maintaining Agreements: Clarifying expectations and contractingCultivating Trust and Safety: Creating psychological safety in relationshipsMaintaining Presence: Being fully present rather than distracted by past or futureListening Actively: Paying attention to what’s said and unsaid, embracing silenceEvoking Awareness: Asking questions to uncover what’s in people’s wayFacilitating Growth: Supporting actionable plans with deadlines and accountabilityAdvice for struggling leaders who aren’t sure where (or how) to beginCollaboration is the key! It’s more important than “having all the answers.”Recognize when coaching or mentoring is best.Leading teams vs. individualsDr. Damian’s key message to leadersResources:Connect with Dr. Damian Goldvarg: Website, LinkedIn, and Lead with a Coaching Mindset: How the Best Leaders Unlock PotentialConnect with Meg:Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. New dates have been added for 2026!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

Welcome to 2026! I hope you’ve had time to reflect and recharge over the holidays, but I’m happy to be back with you for a new year of informative shows and amazing expert guests. Can you improve your performance and resilience through neuroscience-based strategies? The answer is YES! Today’s conversation covers mental toughness, managing negative thoughts, and creating positive change from the inside out. You’ll discover practical tools for navigating the constant “noise” of your thoughts and letting your mind direct which thoughts deserve your energy and attention. Are you ready to think differently about the way you think? Join us!Kevin Stacey is an effectiveness expert and former brain imaging specialist who helps individuals and organizations enhance performance, resilience, and results by utilizing neuroscience-based strategies. As the founder of TrainRight, Kevin has trained over 80,000 people across 48 states and four countries to break mental barriers, achieve peak performance, and navigate challenges with confidence. His diverse background blends military service, healthcare expertise, and corporate leadership. As the author of MindRight and TimeRight and a featured guest on major media outlets, Kevin delivers engaging keynotes, workshops, and coaching on mental toughness, time mastery, and high-performance strategies to clients such as Ford, IBM, The New York Times, and the Federal Reserve. Show Highlights:Overthinking is the #1 cause of unhappiness! (“Is my overthinking becoming counterproductive to the goals I want to accomplish?”)Kevin’s tips for “navigating the noise”: sometimes we need to ignore it, listen to it, or quiet it.Creating your own noise by controlling what you think aboutKevin’s tips for developing mental toughness:Separate the brain (the creator of thoughts) and the mind (the director of your thoughts). Use your mind to keep your brain in check.Develop a different relationship with your “scary” thoughts.How our brains harm our happinessChange the subject to change your thinking. (“Thoughts are not facts.”)Applying neuroscience to organizations by reducing insecurity and managing focusNoticing and changing your thoughts interrupts the pattern of your thinking. “What you think, you become; what you feel, you attract; what you imagine, you create.”The “noise” will always be there, but we don’t have to focus on it. (Like when you’re on a train, notice you’re on the “wrong track,” and get off at the “next station.”)Coaches can practice using a “pattern interrupt” technique with clients. Thought-changing techniques using ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) and CBT (cognitive behavior therapy)The value of gratitude in managing our negative thoughts and reframing our perspectiveBe careful of “outrage addiction.”“Life is a journey, not a destination.”Use a daily reminder: “I’m grateful, I’m happy, how do I want this day to go?”Resources:Connect with Kevin StaceyWebsite, X, LinkedIn, MindRight, and TimeRight Connect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore the STaR Coach Show Mentor Program. New dates have been added for 2026!Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

Here we are at the last episode of the STaR Coach Show for 2025, as I’ll be taking some time off, as I usually do, to fully enjoy the holiday season. We have logged 50 episodes this year, exploring what it takes to build coaching skills, grow sustainable businesses, and develop authentic leadership. Coaching is all about the messy, uncertain, courageous work of transformation and building something meaningful. As I look toward 2026, I’m asking myself the same questions I’m asking you today: “What matters most? Where do I need to focus? How do I make sure I’m spending my energy on what actually moves the needle?” Here’s what I know: the problem isn’t that we don’t work hard enough; the problem is that we say YES to too many things, which scatters our energy and hinders our progress. We mistake busyness for progress. In today’s episode, I’m sharing my three words for 2026, along with guidelines for choosing your three words to serve as guideposts, decision filters, and energy anchors. You’ll learn about the year I’m choosing to create with my three words and why your three words might be exactly what you need, also. Join me now!Show Highlights:Reflections on where we’ve been in 2025 (with 50 weekly episodes about building coaching skills, developing leadership capacity, and growing a sustainable business)From 2016 until now: 9 years of the STaR Coach Show!My three words for 2026:Refresh: I need to review my existing programs through fresh eyes and breathe new life into them.Uplevel: It’s time to bring on more team members so I can focus on doing my genius work with excellence.Bold: I need to be unapologetic about my offerings and do a better job of inviting people in.2026 will be a milestone year for me in three ways: The 500th episode of the podcast, my 40th wedding anniversary, and a special year of integrationSteps to choosing your three wordsUsing your three words as guideposts and filters for each decision and action—a conscious framework for decisionsLooking back on 2025 and forward to 2026Here’s a toast to you for a year of intentional growth, courageous decisions, action, and meaningful impact. I’ll see you in 2026!Resources:Get your free resource today to help you choose your Three Words for 2026: STaR Coach Show/473Connect with Meg:Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

We are living in what some are calling “a loneliness epidemic.” The holidays, a time for celebrating our connections to each other, only amplify feelings of loneliness for many people. As we are more connected, digitally speaking, than ever before, we have never been more disconnected from one another as human beings. We are tackling this issue head-on today! I’m thrilled to bring you a timely interview with a husband-and-wife team that knows what it means to stick together in partnership. They give us insights into their unique partnership approach, the concept of “sticking together” in an organizational context, and practical strategies for building cohesive teams. Lee and Julie view their current work as the most important of their careers, as it addresses loneliness and the impaired social skills that have emerged since the COVID-19 pandemic in our country. This topic is essential to all of us who have lost our muscle of human connection, and we can rebuild it–one intentional step at a time. Are you ready to improve your connection skills? Join us now!Dr. Lee Colan and Julie Davis-Colan co-founded The L Group in 1999, driven by a personal calling to equip and encourage leaders to achieve healthy growth. They are CEO advisors, executive coaches, and bestselling authors of 16 leadership books translated into 10 languages. Lee is a former chief human resource officer, organizational psychologist, and leadership consultant who has worked with some of America’s top companies. Julie is a corporate health strategist and leadership consultant who has spearheaded the implementation of corporate wellness initiatives for many of America’s leading organizations. In this episode, Lee and Julie discuss their collaborative work in leadership development, organized culture, and their newly released book: Healthy Leadership. Their next book will be published in September of 2026.  Show Highlights:Lee and Julie’s writing process: Pinpointing what the world needs to hear (in their next book) through their consulting workSocial skills are skills that need to be practiced.Multiple factors have contributed to loneliness since the COVID pandemic.Fact: We were born to connect. All of our efforts to live a healthy lifestyle (nutrition, exercise, good sleep, etc.) are canceled out by our lack of social connections.The quality of our relationships is integral to living a long, healthy life. Action steps of Colan’s model to improve your connection skills:Reach out. “If you’re in line, get offline!” Everyone wants to be seen, heard, and acknowledged.Seek understanding. Find out the story behind the person and find common points of connection.Make memories. Initiate shared experiences, whether with new friends, old friends, or teams at work. Check in. A text, voicemail, email, or phone call can help cement your connection to another person. Lean into both difficult and celebratory situations by showing up. Rituals are an important part of connecting us and creating memories, whether with family, friends, or work teams. Creating connections produces positive physiological and psychological outcomes.Even remote workers can create intentional points of connection within their teams. One key takeaway from Dr. Lee: “Take one little baby step. Reach out to somebody today.”One key takeaway from Julie: “Make a commitment to reaching out to someone each day. Your life will be much more enjoyable, and you will be happier. It’s a beautiful thing.”Resources:Connect with Julie Davis-Colan and Dr. Lee Colan:Website and book, Healthy Leadership: How to Thrive in the New World of Work Connect with Meg:Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

As an executive coach, I often focus on organizational leadership, but sometimes overlook the value of family-owned businesses. These businesses represent a significant portion of the global economy and are the backbone of many communities worldwide. Coaching in that space is very different from coaching in corporations. Navigating family dynamics, generational transitions, and business decisions makes the stakes incredibly high and deeply personal. Join us to hear a fresh perspective from today’s guest, who is living out his dreams in the family-owned business space with a burning desire to help others rise and face their challenges. Zach Del Monaco is a dynamic entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, and growth coach who captivates audiences with his powerful story–and he’s 23 years old! Known for his hit record speech, he shares his incredible journey overcoming adversity during spinal surgery, transforming the impossible into the possible. He went from living the darkest moments of his life to someone who helps others through life’s challenges. Through his insights, Zach empowers others to face their challenges and achieve their own remarkable success. Show Highlights:Zach’s story and how his incredible journey has unfoldedTwo options when facing a challengeTaking a bigger role in the family’s commercial construction business with a vision for building the company’s brand in the online worldBreaking the resistance to his vision within the complexity of a family business and putting his stake in the groundResults over the past 1.5 years since Zach’s turning point in challenging his family to think differentlyZach’s strategy in offering new transformational ideas for the businessDiffering communication and presentation skills are required in listening/learning, implementing/acting, and understanding others’ personalities.Understanding the value of the statement, “What got you HERE won’t get you THERE.”Overcoming challenges with drive and determination to find freedom ultimatelyThe addictive, fired-up feeling from sharing with others to help them overcome challengesTakeaways about honoring legacy while pushing toward changeResources:Connect with Zach Del MonacoWebsite and InstagramConnect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

Does selling feel awkward or inauthentic? Today, we’re covering how you speak, teach, and bring a conversation to a sales conversion in an ethical, authentic, and effective way that feels good. Your expertise, wisdom, and life experiences could help people transform their lives, but you are leaving money on the table! We will bust through the myth that you “need to find your voice.” You already have your voice! Let’s strip away the mask and the layers that cover it so you can show up authentically!Joel Bauer has trained some of the world’s top income-producing speakers, presenters, and online marketers to monetize their life experiences, both online and offline. A few notable trainees are Russell Brunson, Alex Hormozi, Dan Kennedy, Jordan Belfort, and Peng Joon, among others. For decades, Joel’s principles have set the bar for speaking, teaching, and closing at the very highest level, and there are over 2 million graduates of his program. By applying Joel’s strategies, you can break free from limitations, design your destiny, and monetize your expertise like never before. You’ll learn why implementing Joel’s strategies requires no talent, only technique. Joel explains how to give massive value without expectation, how to package and position your life’s work in high-ticket offers, and why you should never give away your consulting time for free. Show Highlights:It’s not about talent; it’s about technique!Podcasts, like the STaR Coach Show, are the most valuable social media platform.Undervaluing your timeJoel’s philosophy of NEVER taking anyone’s money unless he knows he can help them succeedExamples of unbelievable success from those who have implemented Joel’s strategiesThe value of accountability partnerships3 moves for success:Preframe (Project them into the solution.)Verification of the Silent Salesman (It’s how you “wrap” the package.)Your Call-to-Action (What are you offering? The key is your money-back guarantee.)Being the greatest mentor in the world for the person who chooses you, trusts you, listens to you, and succeeds by implementing your techniques How love and like are different “Permission to reveal” technique as a transformational strategy in offering your serviceValue of letting people know what they CAN doPresent, Persuade, and Preserve techniqueAI is never going to replace coaches and mentorsWhy you don’t need a large audience Don’t pass up Joel’s free gifts!Resources:Connect with Joel BauerWebsite and InstagramGift #1: Visit Joel’s Website to get Peng Joon’s “10 Moves to $10 Million.” It’s a free PDF download in audio and video versions.Gift #2: Visit Joel’s Instagram, @JoelBauerMentor, and DM the comment “5 Moves” to receive the complete “5 Moves to Authority” program, a $5000 value! Connect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

The trap that almost all coaches fall into is assuming that experience eliminates the need for curiosity in growing our businesses. In today’s episode, I’m sharing personal revelations from leading the Enroll More Clients Clarity Sprint. I’ve rediscovered my message by doing every exercise along with the participants, and I’ve learned that even experienced coaches need curiosity to keep their practices fresh and avoid stagnation. Today’s focus is on the elements of magnetic messaging and why coaches should use their clients’ language instead of “coach speak.” We can’t assume that our experience eliminates the need for curiosity, so let’s talk about why that’s a dangerous assumption, what we can miss along the way, and what happened when I chose differently.Show Highlights:Reasons why experienced coaches stop doing “the work” they ask their clients to doGet out of the clouds and speak your client’s language.Three elements of magnetic messaging: clarity, conciseness, and confidenceUnderstanding the transformation pathFocused repetition and daily immersion in skills developmentGetting trapped in analysis paralysisCuriosity and keeping your practice fresh and aliveIsolation vs. collaborationCommunity vs. “figuring it all out by myself”The Star Coach Community: what we offer Give yourself the gifts of clarity, community, collaboration, and mentorship. Enrollment is only open for a few more days! Click here to learn more.Resources:Connect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

We begin with a mind-blowing statistic: 78% of people believe that we have a leadership crisis in corporate America. People aren’t leaving bad jobs; they are leaving bad leaders. Leadership isn’t about power, but it’s about people. In today’s episode. We are diving deep into what it takes to build genuine relationships at work. These relationships have a direct impact on productivity, retention, and team success. You’ll learn why leading with empathy beats leading with ego, every single time. Investing time in your people up front saves you countless hours down the road. Are you ready to discover how leading with empathy can be the game-changer you’re looking for in your leadership style? Join us now!William Davis is a speaker, mentor, and leadership expert who has spent 38 years leading and uplifting teams. He has become a trusted voice in leadership, blending decades of experience with a genuine passion for guiding others and building success, one relationship, one project, and one person at a time. Loyalty, support, guidance, and empathy form the foundation of his leadership style, and his track record proves that his leadership principles steer organizations to success by fostering trust and accountability. Show Highlights:Shocking statistics around leadership challenges and a world leadership crisisThe disconnect in corporate leadership today (Having leadership skills is NOT a given.)“Do I even want to be a leader?”William’s #1 tip for identifying good leaders: Observe how they treat their families.Building relationships in the workplace focusing on connection and interactionMaking sure your people are safe and secure in their roles to succeed and growA good ROI is not always monetary in nature Watching your people succeed is the greatest testament to your careerTrue leadership includes being supportive and uplifting to othersTreating team members equitably, giving credit where it’s due, and creating a supportive environmentWilliam’s key takeaway about genuine relationships in the workplace Emotional maturity as a leaderResources:Connect with William DavisWebsiteLinkedInFacebookBook - How to Lead without Just Managing(The Leadership Blueprint Book)Book - Building Genuine RelationshipsConnect with Meg*Struggling to enroll more clients? Sign up today for our Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint 5-Day Challenge! It’s free, and we begin on November 10. Get clarity that makes enrolling clients feel natural, not pushy! Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

Today’s topic is a common experience for many listeners, whether in the present, future, or the rear-view mirror. We are discussing the all-important decision to leave the corporate world to leap into entrepreneurship. Our conversation explores the practical and emotional aspects of transitioning from employee to entrepreneur, including overcoming imposter syndrome, building effective networks, and strategically scaling a business. Join us to learn more!Kym Insana, founder of Always On Digital, shares her journey from corporate digital marketing executive to successful entrepreneur. She built a multimillion-dollar, woman-owned agency serving major brands, like the US Air Force, Johnston & Murphy, and Enfamil. When Kym left a demanding NYC career in advertising to build Always On Digital, her goal was to find flexibility and balance as a wife and mother of four. Her company thrives by empowering talented working parents to blend career success with family life. Kym is a sought-after speaker who has shared her journey and expertise on several national stages and media outlets. Show Highlights:Kym’s motivation to transition from employee to entrepreneurComing from the place of “What I NEED doesn’t exist; I’ll create it myself.”Kym’s practical strategies to build your business:Ask, “What do I want this to look like?” (having a clear vision)Work backwards from that point to figure out the details. (Reverse-engineer your dream!)Self-motivation is essential!Dealing with imposter syndromeAccepting that you may not be the right fit for every client, but you are an expertHandling rejection with a “Who else is out there?” attitudeBuilding networks by going to your allies firstHiring people for fractional roles as you build tractionGrowth and scaling phase, as you build momentumTaking the step to commit to full-time employees and serious operational costsFinding the balance between sales and customer serviceKym’s unique approach to building her team Resources:Connect with Kym InsanaWebsiteLinkedIn (Kym would love to connect with you through LinkedIn! Tell her you are a STaR Coach Show listener!)Kym’s profile: AccessSpeakers.biz/speaker/kym-insana-speaker-digital-marketing-expert-business-ownerConnect with MegStruggling to enroll more clients? Sign up today for our Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint 5-Day Challenge! It’s free, and we begin on November 10. Get clarity that makes enrolling clients feel natural, not pushy! Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

As our world becomes increasingly connected, we work with teams spanning continents, cultures, and contexts. What works brilliantly in one culture can completely miss the mark in another. For example, silence in a meeting might mean respect, not disengagement. Humility might be mistaken for a lack of leadership potential, and direct communication styles can either build trust or create distance, depending on who’s listening. If you’re ready to stop making assumptions and get curious about the people you lead and coach, this episode is for you. Join us!Dr. Ling Hua is an ICF-certified executive leadership coach and former global biotech executive. In today’s episode, she discusses the critical importance of cultural awareness in leadership and shares helpful tips and techniques we can put into practice. Dr. Ling has become an expert in something the world needs more of: leading with cultural respect. Drawing on her experience working across three continents, she explores how leaders and coaches can navigate high- and low-context communication styles, avoid cultural assumptions, and create inclusive environments for diverse teams. Show Highlights:Understanding what it means to lead with cultural respect High-context vs. low-context communication styles: reading non-verbal cuesFactoring cultural differences into performance reviewsMistakes in cross-cultural relationships happen when we don’t understand humility vs. assertiveness.Dr. Ling’s tips for cultural awareness in different types of organizationsThe impact of coaching and a coaching mindset on diversity within organizations and individualsDr. Ling’s observations about the evolution of company culture and overall cultural awareness in organizationsDr. Ling’s key takeaways about cultural respect in leadership:Don’t assume, ask questions.Adapt your approach.Look beneath the surface.Meet people where they are.Remember, our differences make us stronger, not weaker. Don’t miss our Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint 5-Day Challenge! It’s free, and we begin on November 10.Resources:Connect with Dr. Ling HuaLinkedInEmailRecommended resources for leaders to raise their cultural awareness:The Culture Map by Erin Meyer and a Harvard Business Review article“Develop Cultural Intelligence to Lead Global Teams,” by Dr. David Livermore (May 2025)Connect with MegStruggling to enroll more clients? Sign up today for our Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint 5-Day Challenge! It’s free, and we begin on November 10. Get clarity that makes enrolling clients feel natural, not pushy! Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.

Have you ever found yourself staring at your to-do list, desperately wanting to work, but somehow—-NOT working? You’re scrolling through social media, reorganizing your desk, making another coffee—-doing anything but the thing you actually need to do. You are not lazy or broken, and according to today’s guest, your problem isn’t willpower; it’s neuroscience. Are you ready to achieve more with brain-based strategies? Join us for a conversation that will change how you think about productivity. Robin J. Emdon, known as “the procrastination slayer,” shares his personal journey from chronic procrastination to accountability coach. After realizing that he took 10 years to complete a 6-year degree due to procrastination, Robin researched the neuroscience behind productivity and wrote Get Resultsology®: The Science of Getting Stuff Done. He explains procrastination through brain science, describing the conflict between threat modality and reward modality. He introduces his “inner productivity team,” the Conductor, the Fun-Sized Warrior, and the Scholar. His work emphasizes that accountability is the critical missing link for sustained productivity, citing research that shows a 33% improvement in goal achievement with the proper accountability structure. Robin’s signature momentum formula, “Do it today–Profit tomorrow–Repeat,” helps clients worldwide turn daily action into meaningful progress and attainable success. He does this from his quiet corner on England’s southwest coast. Show Highlights:Robin’s journey: a 2019 face-palm moment that changed everythingThe prevalence of procrastination The COVID-19 shutdown—and an opportunity to do meaningful researchRobin’s embarrassment about his procrastination problemThe structure of Robin’s book, GetResultsology®: The Science of Getting Stuff Done, divided into three specific sections“Money is infinite; you can always make more. Your time and life are finite. Procrastination greatly impacts your ‘time account’.”Momentum is the missing link to productivity—and this creates lifestyle freedom.To get into “the productivity groove,” you need an inner productivity team: the Conductor (dopamine), the Fun-Sized Warrior (noradrenaline), and the Scholar (acetylcholine).Assessing your threat modality vs. your reward modalityUnderstanding accountability–and how it drives resultsResources:Connect with Robin J. EmdonWebsite, LinkedIn, and Goalbusters PodcastGet your FREE PDF copy of Robin’s book, GetResultsology®. Click here. Catch Meg’s appearance on Robin J. Emdon’s Goalbusters Podcast. Click here.Connect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

It’s time to celebrate! This week marks 9 years of the STaR Coach Show, so I’m doing something special in today’s episode. I’m pulling back the curtain on the entire journey, sharing the lessons that built this show, the mistakes I’ve made along the way, and the unexpected gifts that come from showing up every week for 9 years. What matters most is that I’m sharing the most impactful strategy from each phase of the journey, and these are steps you can implement right away. Whether you are considering starting a podcast, offering a course or program, or trying to figure out the consistency element in your own vision, this episode is for you. Join me now, and stick around until the end for a special gift offer!Show Highlights:The beginning, October 16, 2016: My fears about this new endeavorAct I:Then vs. Now (The podcasting world was a much different place in 2016!)No regrets, only resilience and a commitment to my visionMy “one thing” from Act I: “Stop waiting for the perfect timing.”Act II:Lessons learned:Starting is better than perfect.I need to partner with genius.Know your audience deeply.Create systems for a smoother workflow.My “one thing” from Act II: “Identify one thing that could derail your biggest business initiative, and figure out how to partner with someone whose genius can remove that obstacle.”Act III:The beautiful benefits and wins over the years are many.Your creations allow your work to be in front of more people as they get to know who you are and what you do.Meaningful feedback is heartwarming and encouraging.My “one thing” from Act III: “When you commit to serving your audience consistently with genuine generosity, the benefits will compound in ways you can never predict.”Act IV:My honest regrets: What I wish I had done differentlyOvercoming hesitancy in letting your audience know what you need from themMy invitation to join our Know Your People FREE 5-Day Challenge (Find out more at STaR Coach Show.)My “one thing” from Act IV: “Don’t wait years to ask for what you need. Invite your audience to engage NOW.”3 questions to ask about doing something new in your business:How does it serve my audience?How does it align with my passion?Will it hold my interest?Resources:Connect with MegGet Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Join Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint

Leadership is both a skill and a science. Today’s focus is on what happens the day AFTER a promotion. The problem with promotions is that being good at your job and being good at leading people can be two distinctly different skill sets. This episode will change the way you think about leadership development. Ready to learn more? Join us!Noel Massie, former VP of Operations at UPS, discusses intentional leadership and value-based development. In his role at UPS, Massie supported and guided package delivery and logistics services in the US, and he continues to mentor young leaders and supervisors even after his retirement in 2019. Drawing from his 40-year career overseeing 200,000 employees, Massie emphasizes that leadership is about influencing behavior without coercion, and that newly promoted supervisors need structured training rather than being thrown into roles unprepared. His book, Congrats! You've Been Promoted, provides practical frameworks like the “four by five method” for feedback and conflict resolution, targeting frontline leaders who are promoted based on technical skills but lack leadership training. You’ll learn how conflict can be handled without raising your voice, why feedback needs a 4:1 ratio to actually work, and the real reason newly promoted supervisors derail within their first year. Show Highlights:Defining leadership: “the ability to influence a group or individual in their behaviors without coercion”Understanding leadership development as a scienceThe problem with the promotion gapTips for helping new leaders succeed:Care about them.Act with some level of daily development.Navigating fairness, ethics, and integrity on your teamTips for effective feedback (motivational and formative in a 4:1 ratio)The “four by five method,” with four perspectives and five levels of intensityUsing metaphors to disarm the circumstances of a conflictUsing mentorship and “sticky development” to train leadersNoel’s #1 takeaway: “Invest in your development personally. If you make no investment, why would you expect a return?”Resources:Connect with Noel Massie: Website, LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Congrats! You've Been PromotedConnect with Meg:Get Meg’s FREE download, Finding Your Perfect Match: A Coach's Self-Reflection Guide.Explore past episodes and other resources at www.STaRcoachshow.com. Explore the STaR Coach Community and see what’s available there for you!Visit the STaR Coach Show YouTube Channel! Subscribe today! Join our live show taping on the 3rd Thursday of every month at 1 pm CT. Mentioned in this episode:Enroll More Clients: Clarity SprintDo you love coaching, but when it comes to enrolling clients, writing your bio, or posting online, you freeze? Or fall into “coach speak” that doesn’t actually connect? That’s not a you problem. It’s a messaging problem—and it’s costing you clients. Join me for my free, live five-day experience: Enroll More Clients: Clarity Sprint. From March 16–20 at 9 a.m. Central, I’ll help you get crystal clear on your ideal client, refine your message so it actually resonates, and create a confidence statement that makes booking a call the obvious next step. No fluff, just clarity, you can use immediately. Grab your free spot at: https://starcoachshow.com/5dayEnroll More Clients: Clarity SprintJoin Mentoring Program!If you’re a coach who wants to grow—not just check a box—this is for you. I’m enrolling coaches now for my Spring Mentoring Program. Some are here for credentialing hours. Others are here because they want to become the coach their clients rave about. Inside the program, we work on your actual coaching. You’ll hear yourself differently. Learn from other coaches. Develop more presence. And ask questions that create real transformation. If you’re ready to deepen your skills and your impact, I’d love to support you. Learn more at starcoachshow.com/mentor I’d love to work with you.