Coaches & Leaders Assemble: The Coaching and Leadership Podcast

In this episode of Coaches and Leaders Assemble, host Laura Royal is joined by the brilliant Hayley Ramm, founder of The Efficient Elephant, for a powerful conversation about mentoring in business and beyond. Hayley shares her own squiggly career journey, from HR and recruitment to self-employment, children's coaching and ultimately to her true passion: business mentoring.With honesty, humour and heart, Hayley unpacks the real purpose of mentoring acting as a trusted sounding board, offering clarity, accountability and support for business owners and professionals alike. She explains her unique six-step mentoring approach, the importance of chemistry and connection and how even a simple question can unlock transformative insight. Whether you're new to mentoring or looking to deepen your practice, this episode is for you.

How do you really know if your team feels safe to speak up, make mistakes, or challenge the status quo? In this episode of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble Podcast, Laura Royal dives into the heart of psychological safety and how to spot when it’s missing. Laura will guide you through seven powerful diagnostic questions that every leader should be asking and the subtle signs that might be telling you something’s not quite right in your culture. From silence in meetings to the revolving door of leavers, we’ll explore what to look for, what to listen for and how to start making meaningful change. Whether you're leading a small team or a whole organisation, this is your pulse check on trust, truth and what it really means to feel safe at work.

In episode 50 of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble podcast Laura Royal introduces the idea of Actifest...her wordination blend of action and manifesting as a way to help people get unstuck and move forward with purpose. Rather than focusing on vague goals or big leaps, this episode explores how asking the right question at the right time can spark clarity, shift energy and lead to meaningful progress.Laura shares a variety of practical coaching questions that are designed to help people take small, intentional steps. These aren’t fluffy or overly complicated...they’re direct, useful prompts that can be used in coaching sessions, leadership conversations or for your own personal reflection. Whether you're a coach, a leader, or someone who just needs to get out of a rut, these questions will help you create movement without the overwhelm.If you’ve been feeling stuck, circling the same thoughts, or waiting for the “right” moment, this episode will give you a toolkit to take aligned action and make real progress, starting today.

In this episode of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble podcast, host Laura Royal chats with leadership development specialist and business psychologist Charlotte Angus who also happens to be one of Laura's earliest mentors in the world of learning and development.They dive into the topic of imposter phenomenon, those moments of self-doubt many people experience and why it’s important to understand it properly. Charlotte explains the difference between terms like imposter syndrome and imposter thoughts and shares why she prefers more accurate and less clinical language. She also talks about how these feelings often link to things like perfectionism, self-esteem and comparison with others and how recognising them can actually be useful.Charlotte also shares ideas from her research and experience, including how reflection can help us avoid getting stuck in unhelpful thinking patterns. The episode includes practical insights on building confidence, learning from feedback and creating a work environment where people feel safe to speak up and try new things. Charlotte and Laura also discuss how social pressure, gender roles and unrealistic expectations can shape how imposter thoughts show up, and why talking openly about them can make a real difference.Make sure you connect with Charlotte on LinkedIn to find out more - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotteangus/

If you’re thinking about becoming a coach or exploring coach training for the first time, you’ve probably come across a whole mix of terms - certification, accreditation, qualification - and a range of organisations like CMI, ILM, ICF, EMCC, and the AC. It’s no wonder people feel overwhelmed trying to figure out what’s what.In this episode we cut through the confusion and make sense of the coaching credential landscape, especially if you're searching for a training provider and want to understand what kind of training or recognition actually matters.We explore the difference between coach training (the learning process), certification (proof you’ve completed a course), qualifications (regulated learning like ILM or CMI), and accreditation (professional recognition through coaching bodies like ICF, EMCC, or the Association for Coaching).We break down what each term really means, explore how organisations like CMI, ILM, ICF, EMCC, and AC fit into the picture.Find out more about our coach training programmes here www.dnacoach.co.uk/coachtraining

Great leaders and coaches don’t just provide answers—they ask better questions that unlock deeper thinking, problem-solving, and engagement. In this episode of Coaches and Leaders Assemble, we explore the neuroscience behind powerful questions, including how they activate the brain’s problem-solving centre, reduce psychological threat, and trigger dopamine-fuelled motivation. By understanding how our brains respond to questions, you’ll learn how to foster more effective, insightful, and action-driven conversations in your leadership and coaching practice.We also introduce the 5C Coaching Questions Framework, a simple but powerful approach to asking better questions that lead to clarity, curiosity, challenge, commitment, and check-ins. Whether you're managing a team, mentoring a colleague, or coaching a client, these techniques will help you guide conversations that empower, rather than dictate. Tune in to discover how small shifts in your questioning can drive big changes in engagement, ownership, and results.4o

In this episode of Coaches and Leaders Assemble, Laura explores the transformative power of setting intentions and reflection—two simple yet powerful practices that can elevate your leadership, coaching, and decision-making. Whether you’re leading a team, coaching clients, or striving for personal growth, setting daily intentions ensures you show up with clarity, purpose, and impact. Laura breaks down the difference between goals and intentions, why they matter, and how they can shape your mindset, behaviours, and leadership presence. Plus, I share powerful questions to help you start each day with intention and end it with meaningful reflection.Start today - let's go!!

Coaching is one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional growth, yet so many misconceptions prevent people from using it effectively. In this episode, we’re busting a good few of the biggest coaching myths, from the belief that coaching is just about giving advice to the misconception that it’s only for executives or underperformers. Laura dives into why coaching isn’t about having all the answers, how it can happen in just a few minutes, and why it’s a key leadership skill—not just a formal, structured process. Whether you’re a leader, aspiring coach, or simply curious about coaching, this episode will challenge what you think you know.

Welcome to Coaches and Leaders Assemble with me, Laura Royal! In today’s episode, Power Questions That Create Breakthroughs, I’m sharing the one question that changes everything—well, actually, ten! These are the kinds of questions that stop you in your tracks, spark fresh thinking, and help you shift from feeling stuck to making real progress.Great coaching isn’t about giving advice—it’s about asking the right question at the right time. Whether you’re a coach guiding others, a leader looking to empower your team, or someone who wants to develop stronger self-leadership, these questions will help unlock insights, challenge limiting beliefs, and inspire bold action. So, grab a notebook, because by the end of this episode, you’ll have a set of transformational coaching questions ready to use in your own conversations—both with yourself and with those you lead.Reading mentions in the episode features the wonderful work of Michael Bungay Stanier and his book The Coaching Habit. And also from my lovely friend, Jenny Drew, and her book Stop Playing Small.Find out more about what we do at DNA Coach - www.dnacoach.co.uk

In this episode of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble Podcast, Laura Royal explores the concept of Relentless Inclusion—why it matters, how it shapes our workplaces, and why it must go beyond a tick-box exercise. Drawing from personal experiences of exclusion, I reflect on the deep human need for connection and belonging and why inclusive workplaces are essential for people to thrive.I also discuss the recent shifts in the political landscape and their implications for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). With policies being rolled back in some parts of the world, the need to actively champion inclusion has never been greater. Inclusion is not a policy to be removed or diluted; it is a practice that must be embedded in daily interactions and workplace culture.I explore the principles of psychological safety, particularly the foundational need for inclusion, drawing on the work of Timothy Clark. I also share insights from a Chartered Management Institute article on tackling the growing resistance to EDI, highlighting why diversity initiatives must be more than compliance-driven efforts.Creating truly inclusive cultures requires sustained effort, leadership accountability, and embedding inclusion into everything from hiring to career progression and everyday workplace interactions. It is not enough for leadership teams to talk about inclusion at a surface level—it must be reflected in everyday behaviours and decision-making.If we are to create workplaces where people feel valued, heard, and able to contribute fully, inclusion must be the norm, not the exception. Policies do not change culture—people do. And that starts with each of us.CMI article referenced - Seven ways to fight back against the diversity and inclusion backlash - CMIJoin the Conversation:Got thoughts on today’s episode? Drop me a message on LinkedIn or share your biggest takeaway on social media using #RelentlessInclusion.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review & share it with a friend!See you next week—and yes, I’ll probably still be eating cake as today is my birthday. 🎂 😄#Inclusion #PsychologicalSafety #Leadership #EDI #Belonging

In this episode of Coaches and Leaders Assemble, we’re exploring the unexpected versatility of coaching where I share how coaching techniques have influenced not just my professional life but also my personal journey—including a tongue-in-cheek story about how it helped me make a significant life decision involving my ex-husband.This episode offers a playful yet insightful look at how the same coaching techniques used to empower leaders and teams can also be applied to create clarity and balance in everyday life. Whether you’re leading a team, managing relationships, or just trying to figure out your next step, coaching offers a powerful framework for transformation. This episode is filled with relatable moments, practical tips, and a reminder that even when life gets messy, a little humour and a coaching mindset can go a long way. So, whether you’re here for professional insights or personal inspiration, this episode has something for everyone—because coaching truly is for boardrooms, breakups, and everything in between.

Join Laura Royal in this episode all about Word of the Year… with a Twist, where we’re reimagining the traditional concept of choosing a “Word of the Year.” Instead of limiting it to January or tying it to New Year’s resolutions, we explore how selecting a focus word can help realign your energy and attention at any point in the year personally and professionally in organisational settings. Whether you’re starting a new project, navigating change, or simply seeking clarity, your word can act as a guiding principle for your intentions and efforts.We explore how choosing a word can help clarify your priorities and guide your focus, both personally and professionally. Laura shares her own words, such as Simplify and Organised, and how they’ve shaped her approach in various contexts. She also discusses examples of words selected by organisations she’s working with, illustrating how this practice can drive alignment and progress on a larger scale.This episode emphasises that growth and focus aren’t tied to a specific time of year—they can begin whenever you’re ready to make a change. If you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to direct your energy and effort, join us for practical insights, real-life examples, and tips to integrate this approach into your life and work. Your word of the year… with a twist, could be the key to your next step forward.

Welcome to the first episode of the year! In this episode of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble podcast, we dive into the fresh start that January brings. Join me, Laura Royal, as I reflect on the past six months, including the joy of publishing Leaders Assemble and what's coming next from myself and DNA Coach in 2025 and beyond - and don't worry, the podcast is here to stay.I also explore the opportunity that this time of year brings, sharing with you permission to be a New Year New You person if you wish to be and also highlight that setting goals, intentions, objectives and so on can be a continuous approach and one that we actually do every single day without probably realising.

In this episode of Coaches and Leaders Assemble, Laura explores that You Are Not Solely the Person Who Shows Up at Work and the importance of bringing your whole self to work and the benefits of not leaving your home life at the door. Laura delves into why acknowledging and integrating all aspects of our identity can lead to a more fulfilling and productive work experience highlighting how modern workplaces are evolving to support the concept of holistic employee engagement and how embracing our entire identity, including personal experiences, hobbies, and family life, can foster a more authentic and innovative work environment.It's a powerful reminder that that when we bring our full selves to work, we not only enhance our own wellbeing but also contribute to a more inclusive and dynamic work environment.

In this episode of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble podcast titled "Don't Be an Asshat at Work," Laura highlights the issue of psychological safety in the workplace by calling out the outdated command-and-control leadership styles that continue to rear their ugly heads through the demonstration of 'asshattery'. It's time to stop making excuses for people who exhibit toxic behaviours and start demanding better. These old-school leadership tactics aren't just ineffective—they're harmful.Laura shares reflections on how to recogise this and move away from being a dictatorial "asshat" to becoming a supportive and empathetic leader. Creating a workplace where everyone feels safe to speak up, take risks, and be vulnerable is crucial for fostering trust, collaboration, and innovation. This isn't just about being nice; it's about driving performance and satisfaction in a meaningful way.And here's the best part: this is a key theme in my upcoming book, which hits the shelves on 27th June 2024 where she dives even deeper into how to recognise toxic behaviours, hold leaders accountable, and create a culture of respect and inclusivity. Don't miss this episode if you're serious about leading with empathy and making a real difference in your team's lives.Head on over to www.dnacoach.co.uk/book to find out a little more and ensure you subscribe to be kept updated on launch day offers.

Oh hi there and welcome back to the Coaches and Leaders Assemble podcast. The podcast for all things coaching, leadership, people and culture. Now in this episode I am bearing a little bit of my soul by sharing with you the unhelpful pattern and strategy that I run that can sometimes hinder progress BUT how I've learned to recognise that pattern and use it to my benefit to quite frankly Get Sh*t Done, especially as someone who considers themselves a Master Procrastofaffer...you'll also learn my conjoined word definition too.I share with you the strategy and pattern that I leaned into in order to get my book written which publishes this month on the 27th June and how you can utilise some the strategies I share in order to do the two things I talk about all the time....make change and move forward.I talk about the stats shared in the Power of Accountability article too which you can read here - The Power of Accountability - AFCPEWhile you are here, why not register for updates on the book launch here www.dnacoach.co.uk/bookAnd of course ensure you are on our Podcast update list here www.dnacoach.co.uk/podcast.

Welcome back to the Coaches and Leaders Assemble podcast and today’s guest interview episode with the phenomenal Alex Jay Lynam (they/them) from Beyond the Binary and me, Laura Royal (she/her) from DNA Coach. In this episode Alex who is an Inclusion Practitioner and Consultant guides us through Active Inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community.One of Alex’s gifts is in showing us how we can GET THINGS WRONG, SO THAT WE CAN GET THINGS RIGHT and show up in our workplaces, spaces and environments both personally and professionally for the LGBTQIA+ community.Alex and their company, Beyond the Binary, works with companies, schools, families and individuals around LGBTQIA+ inclusion through training, consultancy and public speaking, so that everyone can be seen and heard unapologetically as they are.Active inclusion is all about conversations that matter and making raw connections with other human beings.Learning, growing and expanding together to make positive impact on the spaces we take up so that we can help bridge the gap for declining mental health.  Alex the founder of Beyond the Binary has made significant waves, working with 1000s of people from many different industries to speak from the scar and not the wound so that people have the space to ask questions, get things wrong and to build a foundation of inclusive culture.  Alex has worked with corporate clients and multi figure business owners with bespoke business packages, policy adaption and staff training helping them to gain tools, skills and knowledge to become game changers in their industry to have authenticity and inclusivity at the centre of their culture and mission.Alex has a challenge running right now to boost visibility for your business and create an inclusive space for the LGBTQIA+ community – you can find out more and sign up here - https://beyondthebinarywithalex.co.uk/rainbow-rally-challenge/Alex can be found here too -https://beyondthebinarywithalex.co.uk/Don’t forget to connect with our host Laura Royal too via linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-royal-dna-coach/ and head on over to www.dnacoach.co.uk for all the updates on programmes, consulting and Laura’s upcoming book which publishes on Thursday 27th June.

It's been a wee while hasn't it?  But I am back with Season 3 of the Coaches and Leaders Assemble Podcast.In this short episode, hear a little of what I have been up to since January of this year and all of the mindset blockers that got in the way and what's coming your way for season 3 and beyond.It's great to be back.

Welcome to the decade that is January, ha ha ha, and of course welcome to the Coaches and Leaders Assemble Podcast with your host, Laura Royal of DNA Coach. In this short and sweet episode Laura poses some insightful questions and musings that may help us navigate our way to the end of January and perhaps identify some plans for making change and/or moving forward.    

In this podcast episode of Coaches and Leaders Assemble, host Laura Royal engages in an insightful conversation with Paul Cartwright, the founder of Mantra, shedding light on the critical topic of men's mental health. Paul begins by opening up about his personal struggle with depression, an ongoing battle that has taken various forms over the course of his life. He reflects on the challenges he faced in accepting and acknowledging his mental health issues, grappling with shame and the perceived weakness associated with such struggles. Paul actively shares his personal story to encourage men to talk openly about their mental health struggles and seek help. Mantra has gained recognition, and Paul engages in speaking engagements and initiatives, passionately working towards changing the narrative around men's mental health. His journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of addressing mental health challenges and breaking the silence that often surrounds them. You can connect with Paul directly on linkedin here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-cartwright-mantra/