Connection Experiment by Coach Academy

In the latest episode of Coach Academy’s Podcast “What? Not Why,” Nathalie Blais, CEO and Founder, delves into the third ICF core competency: Exploring Ethical Practice in Coaching. She emphasizes how this competency is vital for fostering trust and integrity within the coaching relationship, guiding coaches to navigate ethical dilemmas with confidence.Nathalie discusses the key ethical considerations that every coach must address, highlighting the crucial role of confidentiality in maintaining a safe space for clients. She sheds light on the importance of professionalism in overcoming challenges, ensuring that coaches are equipped to protect their clients’ well-being.Exploring ethical practice isn’t just a box to check; it’s an ongoing journey of reflection and commitment to ethical standards in our work. By continuously engaging with these principles, coaches can effectively support their clients while cultivating an environment of trust and growth.Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for enhancing your ethical practices in coaching.

In this episode of Coach Academy’s podcast Connection Experiment, Founder Nathalie Blais sits down with Brian Miller — The Connection Magician — to explore the magic of perspective and how to connect with anyone.Brian, a magician-turned-international speaker and coach, reveals how illusion, empathy, and simple human rituals let him forge a connection in just five seconds. He explains why magicians are masters of connection, how shifting perspective deepens rapport, and practical habits anyone can use to create genuine moments. Brian’s TEDx talk “How to Magically Connect with Anyone” has been viewed 3.3 million times worldwide.Join Nathalie and Brian as they invite wonder, test connection skills, and demonstrate how intentional connection transforms coaching, community, and everyday life.We believe coaching is a connection skill — practiced on purpose, it changes everything.

Coach Academy's podcast has a new look and new name, with the same inspiring conversations, ideas and stories. What? Not Why podcast is now the Connection Experiment. (Don’t worry- all episodes from What, Not Why will remain on the channel)The Connection Experiment is all about human connection, the foundation of a coaching conversation. We are curious about how people are using connection to change the world.Join Nathalie Blais, ICF Master Certified Coach and Founder of Coach Academy as she invites wonder and exploration around connection, community, and coaching.We believe coaching is a connection skill, and when connection is practiced on purpose, it changes everything.

In this enlightening episode of the What? Not Why. podcast, host Nathalie Blais, CEO of Coach Academy, sits down with Annalisa Vicente, a passionate maternal mental health advocate and founder of Thriving Mama. Together, they explore the critical importance of understanding personal needs and setting boundaries, particularly for overwhelmed mothers navigating the often-stigmatized experiences of "mom rage."Annalisa shares her inspiring journey from a stable twelve-year career to establishing her coaching business after completing her training at the Canada Coach Academy. She sheds light on her mission to empower mothers who feel like they're "running on empty" and provides insight into the "Rage and Release" workshops she offers as safe spaces for mothers to explore their emotions through creativity and community.Join Nathalie and Annalisa as they discuss the therapeutic nature of coaching, the significance of ICF certification, and the necessity of radical self-acceptance for families to thrive. This episode is packed with key takeaways that emphasize the value of listening, self-care, and trusting your inner wisdom.Curious about becoming a qualified coach? Start your journey today—book a call with one of our Admissions Coaches here: https://meetings.hubspot.com/jessica-derksen/round-robing-admission-coach-meetingWhere to Find Annalisawebsite: http://www.annalisavicente.comInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/annalisa_awakened LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-lisa-vicente-92831765Where to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: canadacoachacademy.comNathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup

Join Nathalie Blais, Coach Academy CEO and Founder, as she breaks down ICF Competency Number 8 – Facilitates Client Growth.In this episode, Nathalie highlights the power of acknowledgments and reflection during a coaching conversation. Rather than simply cheering for achievements, she emphasizes helping clients feel seen and heard, validating their experiences.Your role as a coach goes beyond the surface, encouraging deeper conversations that evoke awareness and facilitate long-term growth. Nathalie shares practical strategies for creating spaces of connection for clients to look inward for the answers to what they want.Explore how true acknowledgments not only empower your clients but also enrich your own coaching experience. Learn to witness and affirm your clients’ growth, and foster a powerful coaching conversation that leads to lasting results and profound breakthroughs

Exploring the Seventh ICF Competency: Evokes AwarenessJoin Nathalie Blais, Coach Academy CEO and Founder, as she delves into the essential ICF Competency Number 7 - Evokes Awareness. In this episode, Nathalie discusses the various challenges that coaches often face in evoking awareness in their clients and emphasizes its vital role in the overall coaching experience.Discover how creating a supportive environment that encourages self-discovery not only empowers your clients but also leads to transformative insights that can significantly impact their journey. Nathalie shares practical strategies and techniques that can help coaches facilitate these moments of clarity and self-realization.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the keys to effectively evoking awareness in your coaching practice. Learn how enhancing this crucial skill can open pathways to significant breakthroughs for your clients, making your coaching sessions even more impactful.

In the latest episode of Coach Academy’s Podcast “What? Not Why,” Nathalie Blais, CEO and Founder, delves into the sixth ICF core competency: Listening Actively in Coaching. She emphasizes the vital importance of actively listening to foster meaningful connections and deeper understanding with clients.Nathalie explains that active listening goes beyond simply hearing the words; it involves recognizing the emotions and intentions behind what clients communicate. This approach creates a supportive environment, encouraging clients to explore their thoughts and feelings openly.She shares practical techniques to enhance active listening skills and being fully present in the moment. Nathalie underscores that mastering this competency not only strengthens the coaching relationship but also empowers clients to engage in self-discovery.Tune in to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies for enhancing your listening abilities, enriching the coaching experience for you and your clients.

In the latest episode of Coach Academy’s Podcast “What? Not Why,” Nathalie Blais, CEO and Founder, discusses the fifth ICF core competency: Maintaining Presence in Coaching. She emphasizes the importance of being fully engaged and attentive during sessions to build deeper connections with clients.Nathalie defines maintaining presence as being in the moment, fostering spontaneous dialogue, and adapting to clients' evolving needs. When coaches are truly present, clients feel valued, encouraging open exploration of thoughts and emotions.She shares practical strategies like active listening, mindfulness, and self-awareness to help coaches remain focused and responsive. Nathalie notes that maintaining presence is an ongoing practice requiring continual reflection and adjustment, ultimately enriching the coaching experience for both coaches and clients.Tune in to discover valuable insights and practical strategies for maintains presence in your coaching practice, enhancing the overall experience for both you and your clients. Thinking about becoming a qualified coach? Start the conversation—book a call with one of our Admissions Coaches here: https://meetings.hubspot.com/jessica-derksen/round-robing-admission-coach-meeting

In the latest episode of Coach Academy’s Podcast “What? Not Why,” Nathalie Blais, CEO and Founder, explores the fourth ICF core competency: Cultivating Trust and Safety in Coaching. She highlights the importance of building strong coaching relationships and creating a secure environment where clients feel comfortable to express their thoughts and emotions.Nathalie emphasizes that establishing trust from the beginning is crucial. Clients are more likely to engage openly, share vulnerabilities, and work collaboratively towards their goals when they feel safe. She discusses how building trust involves active listening, empathy, and maintaining confidentiality, all of which contribute to a strong rapport.Cultivating trust and safety is not a one-time task; it requires ongoing commitment. By consistently nurturing this trust through clear communication and respectful interactions, coaches can empower clients to take risks in their growth.Tune in to discover valuable insights and practical strategies for effectively cultivating trust and safety in your coaching practice, enhancing the overall experience for both you and your clients.

In the latest episode of Coach Academy’s Podcast “What? Not Why,” Nathalie Blais, CEO and Founder, explores the third ICF core competency: Establishing and Maintaining Agreements in Coaching. She emphasizes how this competency is essential for fostering effective coaching relationships and ensuring clear expectations between coaches and clients.Nathalie highlights the importance of setting clear agreements at the outset of the coaching journey, which allows for open communication and mutual understanding. She discusses how these agreements serve as a framework for the coaching process, helping to outline roles, responsibilities, and the goals that both the coach and client aim to achieve.Establishing and maintaining agreements isn’t just a one-time task; it’s an ongoing responsibility that requires continuous engagement and adaptation. By regularly revisiting and refining these agreements, coaches can create a supportive environment that encourages accountability and collaboration.Tune in to discover valuable insights and practical strategies for effectively establishing and maintaining agreements in your coaching practice, enhancing the overall coaching experience for both you and your clients.

In the latest episode of Coach Academy’s Podcast “What? Not Why,” Nathalie Blais, CEO and Founder, explores the second ICF core competency: Embodies a Coaching Mindset. She shares how cultivating self-awareness is key to embodying this mindset - the way we decide to show up in each moment, with intention and purpose.Curious about qualified coaching versus non-qualified coaching? Qualified coaching provides the structure and strategies to consistently uphold this standard, ensuring we remain non-directive and focused on our clients’ growth - helping to do no harm and creating a safe space for exploration.Reaching the Coach Mindset isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s a continuous process of reflection, cultivation, and mindful practice. It’s about regularly returning to awareness of who we are as coaches and how we show up - for our clients and ourselves.#ICFCoreCompetencies #CoachingMindset #ProfessionalCoaching #QualifiedCoaching #NonDirectiveCoaching #CoachEducation #ICFAccredited #CoachingEthics #CoachDevelopment #ReflectivePractice #CoachingCommunity #CoachTraining #MindfulCoaching #CoachingPresence #CoachGrowth

In this episode, we delve into the vital first competency of the ICF framework: Demonstrates Ethical Practice.Discover what it truly means to understand and consistently apply coaching ethics and standards. Nathalie shares her personal insights and applications for recognizing when you're thriving in ethical practice—and when there's room for growth.We also explore how the ICF Core Competencies serve as the foundation for professional coaching worldwide. These standards not only uphold the integrity of coaching but also elevate the profession as a whole.Tune in to deepen your understanding and enhance your coaching practice!Chapters00:00 – Understanding ICF's Core Values in Coaching02:47 – The Importance of Ethical Practice in Coaching05:25 – Navigating the Gray Areas of Coaching Ethics08:25 – Qualified vs. Unqualified Coaching: The Impact on ClientsWhere to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: canadacoachacademy.comNathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#CoachAcademy #ICFCoreCompetencies #EthicalPractice #ProfessionalCoaching #CoachingEthics #CoachingCommunity #CoachEducation #ICFStandards #LeadershipDevelopment #CoachingMindset #EthicalLeadership #CoachingProfession #ICFAccredited

In this special episode of the WHAT? Not Why podcast, Coach Academy Founder Nathalie Blais reflects on the journey that brought our global coaching community to where it is today—and the ripple that continues to expand because of it.Nathalie shares what it means to build a gold standard in coaching: a community of graduates who chose not only to learn, but to stay and lead. Together, our admissions coaches and alumni have turned this movement into something much bigger than certification—a collective belief that coaching changes the way we think, listen, and live.With warmth and candor, Nathalie offers a look behind the scenes of the year that was, the clarity that comes from setting crystal clear goals, and the energy fueling what’s ahead. Her word for the year? Wow.She explores:What’s possible when you move toward your goals every single dayHow coaching clarifies what truly matters—and accelerates resultsThe shift from outcomes as identity to outcomes as feedbackThe ripple effect of community, gratitude, and shared purposeWhy clarity, curiosity, and courage remain the foundation of transformationThis is a moment of reflection, celebration, and vision—a heartfelt thank you to every coach, student, and dreamer shaping the future of this profession.“If I leave you with one thing, it’s this: if nothing else, coaching helps you clarify your goals—and that practice alone can accelerate your possibility of achieving everything you want to achieve in your life.” – Nathalie BlaisChapters00:00 The gold standard in coaching—what that really means04:00 From graduate to guide: the heart of our admissions team08:00 The ripple effect of community12:00 Setting crystal clear goals and why clarity changes everything17:00 Coaching as the language of possibility22:00 Gratitude, reflection, and the energy of wow27:00 What’s next for Coach Academy—and for all of usWhere to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: canadacoachacademy.comNathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#CoachingCommunity #Leadership #Clarity #CoachingCulture #CoachAcademy #Gratitude #GoalSetting #EmotionalIntelligence #Mindset #Connection #HumanCentered #ProfessionalCoaching #LanguageOfInfluence #TorontoCoach #GoldStandard #CoachingMovement

Stop waiting ten years for permission to lead. Tariq Ali went from “should I enroll?” to a thriving executive coaching practice by doing the inner work first. His message: outcomes are feedback, not identity—and that one shift changes how leaders grow, lead, and rest.On this week’s episode of the WHAT? Not Why podcast with Coach Academy Founder Nathalie Blais, Tariq shares how he built a full roster of CEOs and founders by leading with values, curiosity, and courage. Together, they explore what it means to redefine success, find the optimal level of pressure, and create psychological safety for real growth.They dig into why values must outrank outcomes, how judgment-free coaching space lets leaders tell the truth, and why coaching yourself out of a job is the ultimate measure of success. Tariq also explains the difference professional training made, how clarity of who you serve plus authentic storytelling builds trust, and why joy—not grind—is the real metric of leadership.Together, they explore• From “should I enroll?” to thriving executive coach• How coaching others starts with being coached yourself• Values → intentions → outcomes: flipping the performance model• Finding “optimal pressure” for sustainable performance• Safe space and trust as the foundation for transformation• Certification as a starting point, not a checkbox• Reframing fear as feedback, not an enemy• Building a coaching business rooted in belief, not burnout• Showing up online as your real self—no mask requiredThis episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about executive coaching, psychological safety, and leading with integrity. Tune in for a practical and inspiring conversation about the craft of coaching and the courage to grow.Chapters (Condensed)00:00 Introduction & full-circle story with Kelly04:00 From fear to full roster: doing the inner work first09:00 The promotion call that redefined success14:00 Values over outcomes: performance without pressure20:00 Coaching in schools and the future of influence25:00 Coaching yourself out of a job34:00 Building safety, trust, and truth in leadership41:00 Fear as a teacher, not a threat50:00 Showing up real on LinkedIn56:00 Building a joyful, sustainable coaching practice1:04:00 The big question: What else is out there in the universe?Where to Find Tariq AliWebsite: tarikali.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alitarikWhere to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: canadacoachacademy.comNathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#ExecutiveCoaching #Leadership #ValuesDriven #PsychologicalSafety #FounderLife #HighPerformance #HabitChange #CoachingCraft #Certification #ProfessionalCoach #Mindset #FearWork #OptimalPressure #LinkedInWriting #SignatureStyle #CoachingBusiness #Education #LanguageOfInfluence #CoachAcademy #TorontoCoach #IntegrityInAction

From rebuilding in new countries to mastering mind–body health—Douaa Kayed’s journey shows how courage, knowledge, and care turn discomfort into growth and a mission to serve.In this episode, Douaa shares how listening first led her from boxing and personal training into leadership coaching, why a healthy mind is inseparable from a healthy body, and how finding root causes—not quick fixes—creates real change. Her story highlights persistence across cultures, balancing family and ambition, and using simple habits—movement, sleep, and supportive conversation—to protect long-term health.Douaa discusses why knowledge fuels motivation, how to leave the comfort zone without burning out, and the power of safe, judgment-free space. She breaks down common training mistakes, why women in midlife must lift and move with intention, and how small, sustainable choices compound into strength, confidence, and wellbeing.Today, Douaa is blending master-level training in fitness and sport nutrition with ICF-aligned coaching—proving that leadership rooted in empathy, structure, and community can elevate health at home, in the gym, and across cultures. Her story is a powerful example of how self-respect, routine, and support create conditions for resilient, sustainable change.Together, they explore• Douaa’s path from boxing coach and personal trainer to leadership coaching• Why safe, judgment-free listening matters as much as programming• Healthy mind ↔ healthy body: stress, cortisol, and disease risk• Adapting across cultures—building confidence through change• Leaving the comfort zone and designing progressive, realistic goals• Guidance for women ~50: strength, muscle, metabolism, and menopause• Avoiding one-note training: blending cardio, resistance, mobility, recovery• Everyday habits: sleep, nutrition basics, and consistent movement• Motivation through knowledge: learn, experiment, and treat the body like a VIP• Making time by prioritizing self-care so you can keep giving to othersThis is a must-listen for anyone passionate about health, habit change, and coaching craft. Douaa’s lens highlights how clarity, compassion, and a coach’s mindset redefine success—together.Tune in for an energizing, practical conversation about lifestyle coaching, psychological safety, and leading with curiosity.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Douaa Kayed & coach approach00:27 Profile—boxing coach, personal trainer, sport nutrition, strength coach01:35 Supporting mental and physical health through sport06:20 Guinness World Record—130 knee strikes in one minute10:27 Dedication to learning and growth12:43 Bigger goals, pride, and purpose15:56 Family first, then building a name in health & fitness17:31 Origins and moves—Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Canada, Riyadh20:37 Living across cultures—adapting, belonging, and starting again24:31 Coaching as the science of change—leaving the comfort zone27:13 Progress through change—don’t repeat the same routine28:45 Advice for women ~50—muscle, hormones, and strength32:17 Common mistakes—over-focusing on one type of training36:20 Nutrition basics—protein, carbs, fats, and portions38:44 Sleep, stress reduction, and talking to someone you trust39:40 “No time?”—prioritizing self so you can keep giving43:44 Motivation via knowledge—learn, experiment, apply46:53 Treat your body like a VIP—fuel and care matter49:48 The Big Question: “What are we fighting for?”50:07 Where to connect with DouaaWhere to Find Douaa KayedLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douaa-kayed-b9652313b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appWhere to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: https://canadacoachacademy.com/Nathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup

From chasing World Cup podiums to rebuilding after a neck fracture—Kris Mahler’s journey shows how curiosity, presence, and real belief turn fear into fuel and potential into performance.In this episode, Kris shares how shifting from “why” to “what” focused questions helped him return stronger after major injuries, clarified his Olympic goal for Milano-Cortina, and sparked a move into coaching. His story is a testament to practicing awareness, recording and reviewing your own reps, and using simple, open questions to unlock progress.Kris discusses why belief, co-creating the plan, and evoking awareness matter—plus how pausing, validating, and asking precise “What?” questions de-escalates fear on race day and builds confidence. He breaks down athlete vs. coach roles, how to handle resistance without forcing a linear path, and why leaders in sport and business must nurture confidence, not just competence.Today, Kris is building a performance mindset practice alongside his Team Canada ski cross career—proving that leadership rooted in clarity, presence, and community can elevate culture on the hill and in the workplace. His story is a powerful example of how self-regulation, structure, and support create conditions for growth, resilience, and sustainable performance.Together, they explore• Kris’s path from Alpine and Team Canada ski cross to ICF-aligned coaching• How open “what” questions and certification built muscle memory for presence• Athlete–coach collaboration—and why progress isn’t linear when the sport evolves• Belief, psychological safety, and co-creating definitions of success up front• Handling fear and resistance with validation, pause, and precise inquiry• Coaching the person vs. prescribing tactics (and catching leading questions)• Practices outside sessions: film review, visualization, buffers, mindfulness• Language shifts: from “why” to “what,” and noticing absolutes like “always/never”• The introverted coach–athlete: protecting energy while performing on big stages• Building cultures where every voice contributes to collective outcomesChapters00:00 Introduction to Kris Mahler & Team Canada ski cross01:33 Alpine vs. ski cross—speed, terrain, and racing head-to-head02:28 Three major injuries (shoulder, ACL, C7) and the comeback mindset03:22 Mental strength on the start gate—what it really takes04:18 Shifting from “why” to “what” for present-future focus06:54 Ten seasons on the World Cup—Olympic year and going to win07:40 Why coaching—retirement questions and finding the next lane09:07 Choosing an ICF-aligned program—content that exceeded expectations10:48 Mental vs. physical: the differentiator at the top level12:12 PB after injury—evidence that mindset can outpace metrics13:10 Grit, visualization, and embodied rehearsal14:26 Opportunity for coaching in sport—evoking awareness, not scripts20:13 Inner Game of Tennis, golf video, and learning without ceilings25:35 Belief as an edge—home-crowd energy and being “seen”27:37 Biggest takeaway: the power of open questions29:00 Open vs. closed—how language shifts outcomes29:57 What coaches could do differently—co-create and explore31:50 Holding space and saying “I believe in you”33:24 Fear, resistance, and staying loose under pressure34:41 Coaching diverse mindsets on the same team37:44 Barriers in amateur vs. pro sport—costs, culture, and timing42:28 Titles and turf—mental performance coach and the shifting landscape43:59 The Big Question: “How do I drop my ego?”45:26 Where to connect with KrisWhere to Find Kris MahlerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/krismahler/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-mahler-canada/Where to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: https://canadacoachacademy.com/Nathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup

From building cohesive teams to transforming how leaders listen—Ryan Smith’s journey shows how curiosity, structure, and real psychological safety turn groups into high-performing teams.In this episode, Ryan shares how certification sharpened his “beginner’s mind,” helped him slow down tactical instincts, and strengthened his capacity to coach the person—not just the problem. His story is a testament to practicing presence, recording and reviewing your own coaching, and using simple, powerful questions to spark awareness.Ryan discusses why agreements, shared definitions of “done,” and non-competitive space matter—plus how pausing, validating, and asking “What?” (not “Why?”) de-escalates conflict and unlocks collaboration. He demystifies team vs. group coaching, explains how to handle the naysayer in the room, and shows why leaders must nurture confidence, not just competence.Today, Ryan is helping organizations become places people get to work, not have to work—proving that leadership rooted in curiosity, clarity, and community can solve complex challenges and elevate culture. His story is a powerful example of how self-regulation, structure, and support create conditions for growth, resilience, and sustainable performance.Together, they explore• Ryan’s path from consulting and workshops to ICF-aligned coaching• How certification built “muscle memory” for presence and curiosity• Team vs. group coaching—and why rowing in one direction requires shared “done”• Psychological safety, team agreements, and clarifying success up front• Handling tension and conflict with validation, pause, and precise questions• Coaching the person vs. jumping to tactics (and catching leading questions)• Practices outside sessions: buffers, journaling, sport-style reps, mindfulness• Language shifts: from “why” to “what,” and noticing “always/never/impossible”• The introverted coach: protecting energy while facilitating big rooms• Building cultures where every voice contributes to collective outcomesThis is a must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, team culture, and coaching craft. Ryan’s lens highlights how clarity, agreements, and a coach’s mindset redefine success—together.Tune in for an energizing, practical conversation about team coaching, psychological safety, and leading with curiosity.Chapters00:13 Introduction to Ryan Smith & Unearthed Coaching01:33 From operations/consulting to coaching (why certification)04:00 Team vs. group coaching—what changes in the room09:29 Safety, agreements, and Google’s “Project Aristotle” insight12:23 Defining success together to avoid hidden assumptions17:06 Language, bias, and creating the pause in leadership20:12 Handling tension & the “naysayer” (validation, space, inquiry)28:44 Self-regulation: beginner’s mind & avoiding leading questions31:09 Preparing outside the session: buffers, rituals, presence33:56 Journaling for deeper self-inquiry (coaching yourself with “what”)37:26 Why “what” beats “why” for progress (and when “why” helps)40:58 Passion, confidence, and empowering leaders behind the scenes46:50 The introverted coach: energy, facilitation, and sustainable practice51:35 The Big Question: What’s the best way to discover passion—and build life around it?55:56 Where to find RyanWhere to Find Ryan SmithWebsite: https://www.unearth-coaching.ca/LinkedIn: Ryan Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-smith-19387aa6/Where to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: https://canadacoachacademy.com/Nathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#Leadership #Coaching #TeamCoaching #GroupCoaching #PsychologicalSafety #GrowthMindset #Curiosity #Community #Innovation #TeamCulture #PersonalGrowth #CoachAcademy #TransformationalCoaching

From struggling in school to engineering breakthroughs in the space industry—John Whitbread’s journey proves that curiosity and perseverance can defy every expectation.In this episode, John shares how overcoming self-doubt, embracing mistakes, and finding supportive communities shaped his path. His story is a testament to the power of a growth mindset and the impact of recognizing every contribution in building strong, innovative teams.John discusses the value of listening, building communities, and nurturing talent—reminding us that every contribution, no matter how small, matters in achieving collective success. He emphasizes the power of curiosity and shows how persistence can transform obstacles into stepping stones.Today, John is helping to shape the future of the evolving space industry, highlighting how leadership rooted in curiosity, recognition, and community can solve complex problems and spark innovation. His story is a powerful example of how resilience and support create opportunities for growth, transitions, and unexpected success.Together, they explore• John’s journey from academic struggles to engineering success• How overcoming self-doubt builds confidence and resilience• Why curiosity is essential for learning and growth• The importance of supportive environments in fostering innovation• How listening strengthens leadership and collaboration• The role of community in solving complex challenges• Why mistakes are opportunities for growth• How recognizing every contribution builds strong team culture• Why nurturing talent is vital for the future of industries• The power of a growth mindset in navigating career transitionsThis is a must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, growth, and building supportive communities. John’s story highlights the opportunity to redefine success through resilience, curiosity, and the collective power of people working together.Tune in for an energizing and insightful conversation about leadership, personal growth, and the future of the space industry.Chapters00:00 Introduction to John Whitbread's Journey05:59 The Transition to Engineering and Defense12:04 The Role of Mentorship and Guidance17:41 Achieving the Impossible in the Space Industry31:57 Challenging Beliefs and Seeking Feedback37:03 The Importance of Support in Risk-Taking42:42 The Power of Listening in Leadership48:55 Building a Community of Learners01:00:51 The Profound Question: What Do You Want?Where to Find John WhitbreadWebsite: John Whitbread on LinkedInWhere to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: https://canadacoachacademy.com/Nathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#Leadership #Coaching #GrowthMindset #Resilience #Curiosity #Community #Innovation #TeamCulture #SpaceIndustry #PersonalGrowth #CoachAcademy #TransformationalCoaching

Coaching is not just about individual growth. It is about what happens when people come together. In this episode, Coach Academy Founder Nathalie Blais is joined by faculty member Kelly Wood for a powerful conversation on the art of team coaching and what it takes to create spaces where collaboration, curiosity, and innovation can flourish.Together, they delve into the intricacies of team coaching—unpacking the differences between team and group dynamics, the importance of self-regulation, and how curiosity fosters effective communication. Nathalie and Kelly share practical techniques for facilitating team interactions, highlight the power of agreements in creating psychological safety, and reflect on why brave spaces are essential for risk-taking and innovation.The conversation also explores how conflict, often seen as a barrier, can become a catalyst for growth when navigated with awareness and care. From the role of art in conflict resolution to the necessity of feedback loops, Nathalie and Kelly illustrate how coaches can empower teams to embrace challenges and continuously improve together.Together, they explore• Why team coaching involves interdependence among members• The role of self-regulation in effective coaching• How curiosity can transform team dynamics• The power of art as a tool for conflict resolution• How agreements establish a foundation for psychological safety• Why brave spaces encourage risk-taking and innovation• The importance of clear communication in team settings• How feedback loops enhance performance• Why understanding individual responses to conflict is vital• The role coaches play in fostering team growthThis is a must-listen for anyone passionate about coaching, leadership, and building stronger teams. Nathalie and Kelly show how curiosity, communication, and compassion create the conditions for transformation, proving that when teams are supported with the right structures, they can move through challenges, build resilience, and achieve extraordinary results together.Tune in for a practical and inspiring conversation that will change how you see coaching, leadership, and the future of teamwork.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Team Coaching and Iterative Learning07:49 The Role of Self-Regulation in Coaching15:59 Facilitating Effective Communication and Conflict Resolution23:39 Creating Brave Spaces for Innovation31:27 Navigating Conflict and Building TrustWhere to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: https://canadacoachacademy.com/Nathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#Coaching #TeamCoaching #Leadership #ConflictResolution #PsychologicalSafety #Innovation #BraveSpaces #Curiosity #Communication #Feedback #CoachAcademy #TransformationalCoaching

Coaching is not about giving advice or fixing problems. It is about creating a space where others feel fully seen and heard. In this episode, Alex Green joins Coach Academy Founder Nathalie Blais for a rich conversation about the transformative power of coaching, and how shifting from a fixer mindset to a coaching mindset changes everything.Alex shares his personal journey into coaching, reflecting on the impact it has had on both his personal and professional life. He explores the challenge of unlearning ingrained habits, the importance of acknowledgment, and how asking the right questions can unlock new possibilities. He also highlights the depth of connection found in coaching cohorts, the role of commitment in growth, and why showing up authentically matters when building a coaching practice.Today, Alex helps others experience coaching as a life accelerator, deepening awareness, strengthening relationships, and expanding what feels possible. His story underscores that coaching is not about doing for others, but about partnering with them in discovery, growth, and transformation.Together, they explore• The transition from a fixer mindset to a coaching mindset• Why creating calm, present space for others is rare and powerful• The process of unlearning habits that get in the way of presence• The role of acknowledgment and curiosity in coaching• Insights on building a coaching brand and showing up authentically• The transformative impact of coaching programs and cohorts• How coaching can accelerate both personal and professional growth• Future aspirations and passion projects in coachingThis is a must-listen for anyone curious about the practice of coaching and the impact it can have on every area of life. Alex’s story highlights how presence, acknowledgment, and curiosity can shift the way we show up for others and for ourselves.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about growth, awareness, and the possibilities coaching can create.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Coaching Journey02:44 The Impact of Coaching on Personal and Professional Life05:45 Shifting Mindsets: From Fixer to Coach08:32 Navigating Coaching with Family Dynamics11:23 The Challenge of Unlearning14:08 The Role of Questions in Coaching17:18 Building a Coaching Brand20:01 The Importance of Acknowledgment in Coaching22:55 The Transformative Power of Coaching Programs25:56 Future Aspirations and Passion Projects28:59 Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring CoachesWhere to Find Alex Green[Contact info left blank for you to insert]Where to Find Coach AcademyWebsite: https://canadacoachacademy.com/Nathalie on Instagram: @nathalieblais.ceoNathalie on LinkedIn: @nathalieblaisCoach Academy LinkedIn: @coachacademygroup#Coaching #Leadership #PersonalGrowth #ICFAligned #Awareness #Presence #TransformationalCoaching #Curiosity #Acknowledgment #FutureOfCoaching #CoachAcademy #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoaching #CoachingMindset #ProfessionalCoaching #AuthenticLeadership #EmpoweredLeadership #CoachingSkills #LeadershipJourney #GrowthMindset #LeadershipCoaching #HumanConnection #MentorCoaching #CoachingTools #CoachTraining #LeadershipCulture #EffectiveCommunication #PsychologicalSafety #LeadershipImpact