The AC Podcast

Pooja Sachdev, a coach and occupational psychologist, joins host Simone Sweeney to discuss the essential role of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in leadership. Pooja provides, in Simone’s words, ‘one of the best definitions of diversity, inclusion and equity I have ever heard.’ They discuss the challenges organizations face in achieving true DEI and the phenomenon of ‘diversity fatigue’ and explore challenges like managing multi-generational teams and addressing poor leadership behaviour. They also discuss allyship and give practical strategies for leaders to enhance their inclusive practices. An informative, reflective episode that underscores the importance of a human-centric leader being an inclusive leader and the important role coaching plays in supporting this. You will learn: ·       The distinction between diversity, equity, and inclusion as separate but interconnected concepts. ·       The role of empathy in effective leadership and its impact on team dynamics ·       The value of diverse thinking and perspectives in driving innovation and problem solving    'When I say cultural intelligence, I don't mean cultural expertise. It's about cultural humility and being aware that the way I see the world and my cultural conditioning may not be the same as somebody else's.'   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:    https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_future-leadership-human_dei-empathy-culture

Rachael Hanley-Browne, CEO of Team Lab, joins our host, Simone Sweeney, for a very grounded exploration of the realities of leadership, and how you become a better leader: what is the 'secret recipe?’ Especially for those who may be considered atypical leaders, for example, who are not charismatic extroverts, are outside of large corporates in SMEs or who are individual contributors. Rachael focuses on leadership for founders and entrepreneurs as well as deep subject matter experts. They discuss the role of coaching and mentoring in leadership development and include many practical tips for coaches and leaders themselves.   You will learn:   ·       What it takes to be a leader ·       Why awareness of self, context and environment is key to good leadership ·       The challenges and rewards leadership involves    “It takes courage to put yourself out there; it takes courage to let people see you and experience all of your strengths and weaknesses; courage to make unpopular decisions… courage to hold your ground and to have that self-belief when others disagree with you.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_future-leadership-human_challenges-awareness-behaviour

Julie Flower, leadership and team development practitioner, joins host Simone Sweeney for an insightful discussion on how coaches can help leaders develop the skills they need to work with the ambiguity and change of the modern world. Julie has a long background of working with the public sector, government and third sector, and so understands the pressures leaders have faced in these sectors in recent years, describing it as a ‘perfect storm’. She shares the types of change she has been coaching leaders and teams with, what it means to lead today, its wider context and how coaches can help.   You will learn:   ·       The coaching skills needed for working in emotionally charged environments and support leaders to unlock and develop soft skills ·       The role of coaches in supporting collaboration and influencing ·       The use and impact of creativity, such as improv and embodiment techniques, in coaching leaders and teams   “I think leadership is about creating the conditions for everyone to work effectively towards a common goal. Thinking about how we can mobilise people towards a common goal and create the conditions where they can succeed and excel.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_future-leadership-human_change-collaboration-creativity  

Liz Rider, organizational psychologist and thought leader in the area of human-centric leadership, joins our host, Simone Sweeney, in the first episode of a wonderful new podcast series. Together they unpack what leadership and human-centric leadership is and why shifting to this type of leadership is so important and impactful for organizations and people.   Liz brings her passion, energy and experience, with real-life examples of how qualities such as empathy, listening, trust and self-awareness can transform the workplace. She encourages leaders to learn how to really connect with their people and why she believes that leaders as coaches is the way to a better future for us all. An honest and vibrant conversation for all coaches, leaders and organizations.   You will learn:   ·       The vital soft skills required for human-centric leadership ·       The role of coaches in transforming managers into leaders ·       What part AI plays in creating more human-focused leaders   “We are starting to get more role models that are human-centric, and I think that the more we get in different organizations, the more we will believe in human-centric leadership and the more human-centric leaders we will get.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_future-leadership-human_transformation-managers-leaders

Lesley Roberts, coach and author of the highly rated ‘Coaching Outdoors: the essential guide to partnering with nature in your coaching conversations’, joins our host Rob Lawrence in this final episode of our Coaching Outdoors series.  Lesley shares the moment in beautiful Glencoe, Scotland, that was a catalyst for her profound connection with nature and the career she has now. She discusses the benefits of coaching in natural settings and gives examples of the transformations that happen for clients. Discover how nature can resource coaches, improving mental and physical health and wellbeing, and Lesley’s vision for the future where nature is central to coaching and organizational practices. A warm and inspiring conversation that invites you to discover the magic of the natural world for yourself. You will learn:   ·       Practical tips for integrating nature into your coaching practice ·       Addressing perceived limitations and fostering client comfort in outdoor settings ·       The spiritual connection to nature and its role in coaching  “I do believe in the power of nature, I believe in magic and miracles that happen in nature, and I think nature proves to us time and time again that there is magic and that there are miracles.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_transformation-perspective-practice

Jackee Holder, Executive Leadership Coach, Coach Supervisor and Creativity Expert, joins our host Rob Lawrence to share her profound connection to nature in her home city of London and how she uses this to enhance her coaching and supervision practice.  Using real-life examples Jackee describes a variety of ways she uses nature in her coaching conversations and the impact it has on clients. She emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature, even in urban settings, for personal growth and emotional expression. Jackee also highlights inclusivity, cultural awareness and bias, and the therapeutic power of nature in fostering community well-being.      You will learn:   ·       The use of nature as a metaphor in coaching to facilitate deeper self-reflection and creativity ·       Resources and tools for integrating nature into coaching practices ·       The concept of nature as an equalizer, transcending societal barriers   “I want people to know that you do not have to pack your bags, go and stay in the countryside. Get away to the seaside. I want people to be resourced with the nature that is on their doorstep.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_urban-nature-connection-metaphors

George Warren, executive coach and podcaster, joins our host, Rob Lawrence, to share his reflections on why and how he offers clients the opportunity to take their sessions outside in nature. Nature is the place that inspires and sustains George, and he encourages all coaches to find a place that ignites them, allowing them to be the best version of themselves as coaches, whether that is nature, art galleries, or other similar locations. He shares his journey from Zoom calls and indoor sessions to coaching whilst walking – a practice that has taught him a deepening level of self-care, happiness, and health that changed his work and personal life for the better.    You will learn: ·       The benefits to himself, his clients, and coaching itself ·       The deep self-care nature offers ·       The wisdom, insight, and self-awareness nature offers   “I am happier, I am healthier, I am more connected to something greater than myself, I am more inspired when I am outdoors.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_nature-coaches-self-care-benefits

Hamish Mackay Lewis, a leadership and life coach, facilitator and breathwork practitioner, joins host Rob Lawrence in this deeply rich and sensitive conversation about nature connection and coaching in nature. Hamish takes us on a journey through ‘The Connection Sequence’ in such a beautiful and powerful way that it will be hard to resist the invitation to go into nature yourself.   He shares how he overcame imposter syndrome and anxiety trying to meet other people’s expectations of who he should be and how they thought he should live his life, which informs his coaching today. Hamish describes the sacredness of deepening our connection with nature, the ancient wisdom that inform his life and work, as well as a growing interest in the use of rituals. Whether you are a coach or not, and whatever type of coach you are this conversation is worth listening to - it will awaken something you might not even know is there.   You will learn:   ·       The principles and journey of the connection sequence ·       The three pathways to your authentic self ·       Seasonal Alchemy and the transformative power of nature     “I met some really inspiring people who were working at the confluence of adventure, spirituality, nature connection, and human development. I knew this was me, this was what I’d been looking for.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_spirituality-connection-sequence

Ellie Lloyd-Jones, Outdoor Coach, joins host, Rob Lawrence to discuss her journey and experiences in outdoor coaching. Ellie shares how her move to the countryside for her own mental health and the positive impact of nature on her children inspired her to integrate outdoor elements into her coaching practice. Besides one-to-one coaching, she now runs regular group coaching in the form of netwalking events, as well as wellness sessions. Hear about her unique experiences as a coach and introvert, and why she believes that outdoor coaching is potentially ideal for clients who are neurodiverse.   You will learn:   ·       What Netwalking is and its benefits ·       The impact of nature on wellbeing and self-care ·       Personal experiences and real-life examples of outdoor coaching “I set up my Netwalking events to bring people together, to get people away from technology. They are centred around common challenges people face and I set up coaching cards specific for that event.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_netwalking-neurodiversity-transformative

Michael Jospé, Founder of the Earth-based Institute, coach, and coach trainer, joins our host, Rob Lawrence to share his fascinating journey into nature-connection coaching and the services he now provides for coaches who want to work in this way. Michael discusses the different kinds of relationships we can have with nature, and which one applies to coaching as well as giving incredible tips on how to think about the business side of a nature-based coaching practice. This is an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of nature as well as practical business tips for coaches wanting to work this way.   You will learn:   ·      More about Michael’s ICF accredited Nature-Connected Coaching training ·      How to get your first coaching clients as a nature-connected coach ·      What markets and niches are looking for this type of coaching    “It’s been my passion for several years now – running this programme to enable professional coaching in this transformational, nature-connected way. It’s now a two-year programme with certification and building your business as a coach.”    For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:   https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_nature-connected-coaching-business-training

Join Smaranda Dochia, Maxine Bell and Rob Lawrence, members of the AC podcast team, as they celebrate the 200th episode of the AC podcast. They discuss the value and content the podcasts give to coaches and those interested in coaching, and how they align and fit with the wider umbrella of the Digital Learning Hub. Smaranda shares the incredible amount of content available. Maxine highlights the wonderful ripple effects of the podcast, and we hear from some of the guest podcast hosts. The Digital Learning team’s biggest desire is to be of service to the coaching community and they hope this episode gives a taster of what is on offer to support you on every step of your coaching journey. Check out our Digital Learning Hub here: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub   You will learn:   ·       About the free and paid content available, providing incredible learning opportunities ·       The collaboration, creativity, and teamwork that happens behind the scenes ·       How the Digital Learning Hub supports coaches through the hurdles, highs, and continuing professional development of their coaching practice   “With digital learning, we want to offer value. We want to offer learning. This is continued professional development in so many shapes and forms. It’s all part of an open, friendly community where people have access to so much learning.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_special-episodes_podcast-digital-learning-value-benefits

Catriona Horey and Elizabeth Wainwright, both coaches and the hosts of the Unfurling podcast, join our host Rob Lawrence to discuss how they coach outdoors as well as the deeper potential of nature to demonstrate, create, and support community. They share how they coach in two very different locations and yet still create powerful outcomes for clients proving that location is not a barrier. Catriona and Elizabeth also connect the outdoors, creativity, and coaching with real-life examples. Enjoy this honest, thought-provoking conservation, full of helpful tips on how to find your unique way of coaching outdoors.   You will learn: ·       The link between reconnecting with nature and reconnecting with each other ·       How nature gives us and our clients permission to be ourselves ·       How to trust yourself as an outdoor coach    “I think it produces a sense of adventure in people, relief in people, different perspectives, and possibility.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_community-connection-creativity  

Sam Wright, PCC executive coach and nature connection guide, joins our host Rob Lawrence to share what made her decide to take coaching outdoors. Sam explains her own relationship with nature and how we get curious about our client’s experiences when coached in more natural settings, such as urban parks. Sam provides ways to increase our connection with nature in micro-moments and describes the power of the pause.   You will learn:   ·       What guided the decision to take coaching sessions outside ·       The insights and experiences clients may have when coached outside ·       Which practical points to consider when coaching outside     “It’s just a coaching session but nature is in the background, doing its magic; it’s alchemy on this human being and on me as well.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_nature-connection-urban-spaces  

Diana Tedoldi, MSc, PCC-ICF and founder of The Nature Coaching Academy, joins our host, Rob Lawrence, to share her journey from management roles in the corporate world to becoming a ‘coaching with nature’ practitioner and trainer. Diana’s deep connection with nature, her passion, and her experience with this topic are truly inspiring. She clearly demonstrates the benefits to clients and coaches as well as the ripple effects on the natural world. This is a conversation for coaches or for anyone curious about reconnecting or deepening their connection with nature.   You will learn:   ·       Synergizing nature as a co-coach indoors, online and outdoors ·       What ecosomatic coaching is ·       Ideas, stories and examples of coaching with nature from Diana’s practice to inspire your own practice     “When I coach in synergy with nature, nature is a part of the session, the conversation. I like to say nature is my co-coach.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_ecosomatic-nature

Anna-Marie Watson, coach, supervisor, and podcaster, joins our host, Rob Lawrence, to share her experiences and knowledge of coaching outdoors. Anna-Marie shares her lifelong experiences with nature, the research into this field, and the ways she uses the outdoors to coach her clients. She challenges coaches to consider their own relationships with nature first to create an authentic practice, and discusses the role of movement in coaching outdoors. This is a practical and inspiring introduction to our latest podcast series: Coaching Outdoors.   You will learn:   ·       The practical considerations to coaching outdoors ·       Ethical and safety aspects ·       Integrating technology and coaching outdoor methods   “I think the beauty of outdoor coaching is the diversity within it and the passion that coach practitioners have within this field is huge.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_coaching-outdoors_practical-tips-inspiration  

Beth Clare McManus, psychologist, artist, and researcher, joins our host, Sheela Hobden, to bring her unique approach to the final episode of our Research in Coaching series. Currently undertaking a PhD in exploring art-based approaches in supervision, Beth explains why she sees all research as a creative practice.   Beth also carries out regular informal research in her practice and gives real examples of how she does this. She encourages coaches to give a playful spaciousness to research, whilst considering safety and ethics in coaching experiments. Listen for a fresh perspective that makes research accessible to any coach and supervisor.   You will learn:   ·       How to create informal research opportunities in your coaching practice ·       How to be creative and experimental in your research ·       Ethical issues to consider in informal and formal research   “I don't locate all the research thinking or doing under that formalised space. The work out there I've done in art galleries and around the built environment is quite informal.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_research-coaching_experimental-creativity-ethics

Dr. Christine Vitzthum, whose pioneering research supports gender-sensitive approaches in corporate settings, joins our host, Sheela Hobden, to share her experiences with research in coaching. Christine demonstrates the huge benefits of overcoming limiting beliefs about research and discusses the potential benefits of integrating research practices into professional coaching accreditation. Discover why she advocates for the value of research in coaching, and encourage coaches to engage in critical reflection.     You will learn:   ·       About Christine’s research on gender sensitivity and the risks within organizational coaching ·       The incredible outcomes of Christine’s research, both personally and professionally ·       Overcoming the challenges of research   “My research led to an approach by my new business partner, and we started a new company, I have published articles and have a book proposal on my desk. So it’s opened up so many doors.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_research-coaching_gender-sensitivity-organizations

Verity Symcox, psychology doctoral student, award-winning coach, and lecturer at Henley Business School, joins our host, Sheela Hobden to bust the myths and misconceptions about research in coaching. Join this lively, honest conversation to be inspired and learn how accessible research is for any coach.   You will learn:   ·       Verity’s journey with research ·       Myths and misconceptions about research and becoming a researcher ·       Specific key learnings from research that can impact our coaching practice   “I thought I haven’t got enough brown cardigans or elbow patches to do research. But what I see is bright, colourful people with just lots of passion.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:   https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_research-coaching_myths-misconceptions

Jeremy Lewis, coaching supervisor and practitioner-researcher, joins our host, Sheela Hobden, to share his love for practitioner-led research. Jeremy shares the story that led him to research and the huge impact it has had on his life and practice. He is now on his third piece of research in four years, continuing to explore new frontiers in coaching supervision. His personal journey and real-life examples make research both attainable and inspiring.   You will learn:   ·       The process of becoming a practitioner-researcher ·       Different research models and methods ·       How to implement research findings into coaching and coaching supervision   “If we can research and write it up in a way that is essentially capturing practical wisdom: that is how it relates.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_research-coaching_practitioner-researcher

Abhijit Bhattacharya joins our host, Sheela Hobden, to share his perspectives as a coach practitioner who has been an avid consumer of research. Abhijit explains why research should inform practice, how practice informs research, and exposes three core myths about research and coaching. His own passion and real-life examples will inspire you to rethink your own attitude to research, and how to integrate it into your practice.   You will learn:   ·       What makes research important for practitioners ·       Examples of the practical implementation and impact of research for coaching ·       Why you should participate in research and stay informed     “Research cannot happen in isolation. It cannot happen without the participation of the practitioners and people who have received coaching, so I urge everyone to participate.”   For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit:  https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_research-coaching_informing-coaching-practice