The Coaching Studio with Lyssa deHart

On this episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart welcomes Jille Bartolome, MCC, a coach who has been shaping the profession since 1996. Known by colleagues and clients as “The Velvet Hammer,” Jille embodies a rare blend of compassion and candor, inviting people into courageous self-discovery while asking the questions that strike at the heart of what matters. In their conversation, Jille shares her personal journey into coaching, including the pivotal moment she discovered the field through a magazine article featuring Thomas Leonard. She reflects on how coaching first transformed her own sense of authenticity and continues to evolve as the profession matures. Together, Lyssa and Jille explore why true coaching begins with self-awareness, how unresolved personal work shows up in sessions, and why coaching the person rather than the problem is the cornerstone of sustainable growth. Jille also offers insights from decades as a mentor coach, faculty member, and ICF assessor. She highlights the growth edges many coaches face, particularly around creating clear agreements and facilitating lasting learning at the close of a session. Her stories underscore the importance of boundaries, transparency, and cultivating safe, empowering spaces for clients. Looking ahead, Jille emphasizes the role of human connection as coaching’s most irreplaceable asset in a world increasingly shaped by AI. At the heart of her work, she hopes people leave with a deep trust in themselves and the courage to make decisions rooted in their own wisdom. Check out her website. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube. Season 5 Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Let's Connect on LinkedIn Website Lyssa deHart Producer: Michele Logan Video Editor: Sebastian Crespo Social Media: Luciana Bottini Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Subscribe, Rate, & Follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Join Lyssa deHart in The Coaching Studio with Hayden Lee, MCC, as they explore how the Enneagram and neuroscience reveal the deeper patterns behind growth and leadership. Discover why self-awareness, vulnerability, and courage are the real foundations of transformation. From his early career in acting and education to his leadership as co-founder of the Master Mind Institute, Hayden shares how curiosity and courage drive both personal and professional transformation. Together, Lyssa and Hayden dive into topics such as passion as a cultivated practice, the balance between vulnerability and authenticity, and the power of aligning intent with impact. Listeners will gain fresh insight into why inner work matters just as much as outer success, how the brain’s wiring influences growth, and how leaders can build the self-awareness needed to create psychologically safe and thriving organizations. Check out his website. Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. Season 5 Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Let's Connect on LinkedIn Website Lyssa deHart Producer: Michele Logan Video Editor: Sebastian Crespo Social Media: Luciana Bottini Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Subscribe, Rate, & Follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

On this episode of The Coaching Studio, Lyssa deHart talks with Elaine Taylor-Klaus, MCC, co-founder of ImpactParents, about embracing neurodiversity through the coaching lens. Elaine shares her journey from overwhelmed parent to pioneering coach, including the profound shift of her own late ADHD diagnosis and how it reshaped her understanding of herself and her family. Together, they explore why coaching is such a powerful framework for supporting “neurospicy” kids and adults, and how curiosity, agency, and intentional motivation can transform the way we navigate challenges. Elaine introduces her playful term “neurospicy” as a way to lighten heavy conversations while affirming that nothing is broken — brains simply work differently. The conversation also touches on the role of nutrition and brain health, the PINCH framework for activating focus, and the importance of play, presence, and humor in managing our nervous systems. Listeners will walk away inspired by Elaine’s vision of a world where coaching skills are woven into everyday life, offering hope, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for the creativity that neurodiverse wiring brings. Check out her website. Follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. Season 5 Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Let's Connect on LinkedIn Website Lyssa deHart Producer: Michele Logan Video Editor: Sebastian Crespo Social Media: Luciana Bottini Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Subscribe, Rate, & Follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, Lyssa deHart sits down with Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener, a global authority on positive psychology coaching and co-author of Radical Listening and Positive Provocation. Known for his ability to ask provocative questions that shake us out of autopilot, Robert shares insights into how listening can be transformed into a practice of co-creating meaning. The conversation begins with Robert’s personal journey, how his global experiences shaped his perspective on culture, well-being, and human potential. He describes his curiosity for exploring the “edges” of coaching, where science meets creativity. Robert emphasizes that coaching, while young as a field, benefits when practitioners embrace evidence-based practices while still leaving room for surprise, experimentation, and creative interventions. A highlight of the discussion is Robert’s exploration of Radical Listening, which goes beyond the traditional “levels of listening” to include six key competencies: noticing, quieting, accepting, acknowledging, questioning, and interjecting. He illustrates how these practices can deepen connection, foster transformation, and counteract the distractions of our noisy, fast-paced world. Robert also discusses the ideas from Positive Provocation, where he challenges coaches to reframe standard tools like homework into “experiments,” to view negative self-talk as potentially useful information, and to become aware of their own assumptions and self-limiting beliefs. His invitation is for both coaches and therapists to balance rigor with creativity and to practice curiosity even in discomfort. Throughout the conversation, Robert references not only his own work but also other influential texts in psychology and coaching, including Daniel Goleman’s work on emotional intelligence, which has shaped the integration of emotion and self-awareness in modern coaching. The episode closes with a reflection on the future of coaching: a call for practitioners to embrace both science and art, and to dare to listen and provoke in ways that create genuine change. Check out his website Find him on LinkedIn and on Instagram Season 5 Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Let's Connect on LinkedIn Website Lyssa deHart Producer: Michele Logan Video Editor: Sebastian Crespo Social Media: Luciana Bottini Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Subscribe, Rate, & Follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

What does it take to lead when the stakes are sky-high and every move counts? Dr. Carol Kauffman, founder of Harvard’s Institute of Coaching and co-creator of the MOVE framework, knows better than most. In our conversation, Carol takes us from her unlikely beginnings—growing up surrounded by thirty toy poodles and being told she wasn’t “college material”—to becoming one of the most sought-after leadership coaches in the world. She opens up about the crucible moments that shaped her, the fine line between therapy and coaching, and why leaders need to leave their egos at the door if they want to thrive under pressure. We explore her simple yet powerful practices, such as asking, “Who do I want to be right now?” and her belief that sometimes an ounce of input can spark a pound of transformation. Along the way, Carol brings warmth, humor, and hard-earned wisdom to what it means to be fully present when people need you most. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, presence, and real-time leadership. Go get her book Real-Time Leadership To connect with Carol, find her on LinkedIn And, check out her website. Season 5 Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Let's Connect on LinkedIn Website Lyssa deHart Producer: Michele Logan Video Editor: Sebastian Crespo Social Media: Luciana Bottini Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Subscribe, Rate, & Follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Mastering the Moment: Emotional Intelligence Tools for Turbulent Times with Dr. Relly Nadler In this compelling episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart sits down with Dr. Relly Nadler, Psy.D., MCC, to explore the art and science of moment mastery—how leaders and coaches can harness emotional intelligence (EI) to make smarter decisions, build trust, and stay present in today’s turbulent world. Dr. Nadler shares powerful insights from his decades-long journey, including defining moments from his early career in behavioral youth programs and lessons drawn from the football field. His reflections reveal how every interaction has the potential to elevate or deflate, and why managing emotions in those critical seconds can change everything. Listeners will discover practical tools like the Leadership Two-Step, the Emotional Audit, and the newly coined Empathy Audit, designed to be used in under 15 seconds to bring awareness, emotional clarity, and intention into real-time conversations. From meditation practices to laughter yoga and polyvagal techniques, this episode explores how to regulate ourselves so we can show up at our best—especially when the stakes are high. Dr. Nadler also shares a vivid acronym (V.I.V.I.D.) for understanding what people actually want from us in the moment—validation vs. direction—and how that distinction can transform relationships at work and at home. “If you stay on autopilot, you stay average. Mastering the moment is what makes leaders extraordinary.” — Dr. Relly Nadler Whether you're a coach, a leader, or simply someone who wants to respond rather than react, this episode is filled with actionable insights that will help you lead and live with greater awareness, balance, and brilliance. Check out his website Find him on LinkedIn Take a listen to his podcast Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

Resilience, Joy, and the Power of Choice: A Conversation with Valorie Burton, MCC In this deeply personal and inspiring conversation, host Lyssa deHart sits down with internationally bestselling author and Master Certified Coach Valorie Burton, MCC to explore the transformative power of resilience, self-compassion, and intentional choice. With 14 books translated into 10 languages and a coaching legacy that spans the globe, Valorie brings both heart and science to this powerful episode of The Coaching Studio. Valorie shares her own path to discovering coaching, how a life-changing moment in a Seattle bookstore sparked her purpose, and the surprising way her journalism career led her to Thomas Leonard and the coaching world. She opens up about navigating personal challenges—including divorce and redefining her vision for life—by applying the very tools she now teaches. Listeners will learn how coaching became her lifeline and how her background in positive psychology and resilience research informs her coaching philosophy today. We dive into Valorie’s latest book, Rules of Resilience, including standout rules like “Close Your Energy Gap” and “Rally Your Resources.” She speaks candidly about the myth of perfection, the quiet epidemic of loneliness, and the power of choosing joy—even before circumstances align. With heartfelt stories about her family, her work, and her own inner journey, Valorie reminds us that resilience isn’t about avoiding hardship—it’s about showing up with self-compassion, clarity, and courage. Whether you're a coach, leader, or someone navigating change, this conversation is a powerful invitation to reflect, reframe, and reclaim your energy and purpose. Visit Valorie on her Website Find her on LinkedIn Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart sits down with Paul Sanbar, MCC, a coach who doesn’t just think outside the box—he builds new ones, takes them apart, and reimagines what’s possible. Through LEGO® Serious Play® and hands-on thinking, Paul helps individuals and teams move beyond words, unlocking deeper insights through creativity and play. Paul’s journey to coaching is anything but ordinary. Originally drawn to architecture as a way to create structure in a chaotic world, he shifted paths multiple times—through business, poetry, psychotherapy, and coaching—a journey he humorously calls A Fortunate Series of Overcorrections. Each pivot helped him refine his coaching philosophy, where play and unlearning are as essential as structure and mastery. Lyssa and Paul dive into topics like: 🔹 The power of liminal spaces—why transformation happens in the “in-between” moments. 🔹 How LEGO Serious Play® brings coaching to life—helping clients see and restructure their ideas. 🔹 Why unlearning is key to coaching mastery—and how it shaped Paul’s journey to MCC. 🔹 The neuroscience of play—how creativity helps clients move past stuck points and into possibility. This conversation will challenge the way you think about coaching, learning, and growth. Whether you’re a coach, leader, or just someone fascinated by how we build and rebuild our lives, you’ll walk away with new perspectives and actionable insights. This episode is full of practical insights, personal stories, and new ways to think about coaching and growth. You can catch up with Paul on his website Or find him on LinkedIn. Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart welcomes transformational coach and hypnotherapist Daniel Olexa, MCC, CIHt for an in-depth conversation about reconnecting with your intuition and reclaiming your authentic self. Daniel’s journey—from his early days as a diesel mechanic in the US Coast Guard Reserve to becoming a world-class coach—sets the stage for a powerful discussion on how life-changing leaps, both literal and metaphorical, can spark profound personal transformation. Key Topics Covered: Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs:The Power of Hypnotherapy & Parts Work:Collaborative Leadership:Transformational Coaching vs. Transactional Problem Solving:Guest Insights & Resources: Practical ManifestingA Pessimist’s Guide to Manifesting,integrating your authentic selfTakeaways for Listeners: Embrace Vulnerability:Trust Your Inner Wisdom:Lead with Empathy:Join us for this transformative conversation and discover how to step into your power, reconnect with your inner strength, and create a life filled with purpose and passion. Check out Daniel's website. And, find him on LinkedIn to learn what he's up to. Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, Lyssa deHart sits down with David Goldsmith, MCC, for a deep and thought-provoking conversation about the realities of executive coaching, leadership, and the evolving landscape of the profession. David shares how an unexpected moment with his father led him to discover the power of perspective, a skill that would later shape his work as a coach. He recounts his early experiences in coaching, long before it was formally recognized as a profession, and reflects on the misconceptions that still persist in the field today. Throughout the conversation, David challenges traditional coaching norms, emphasizing the importance of balancing structure with adaptability. He discusses how sports coaching provides a valuable model for leadership development, particularly in how great coaches tailor their approach to individual needs. He also highlights the importance of feedback in both coaching and organizational leadership, pointing out that many leaders struggle to create a culture where constructive feedback is welcomed rather than feared. One of the most compelling parts of the discussion focuses on the future of coaching in an AI-driven world. David predicts that artificial intelligence will soon handle low-level coaching engagements, making it crucial for coaches to develop skills that AI cannot replicate. He encourages coaches to speed up their ability to deliver insights, reduce time to transformation, and integrate AI tools into their work rather than resist them. His challenge to coaches is clear: refine your skills, embrace change, and focus on the unique human elements of coaching that technology cannot replace. David and Lyssa also explore the deeper work required for coaches to be truly effective. He stresses that coaches must do their own personal development in order to help clients navigate complex challenges. He shares his own experiences with receiving feedback, the importance of continuous learning, and the mindset shifts necessary to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. This episode offers a candid and insightful look at the current state and future of coaching, making it essential listening for coaches, leaders, and anyone interested in personal and professional growth. Connect with David on his Website Find him on LinkedIn. And, check out his book recommendations: Dare to Lead and The First Rule of Mastery. Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, Lyssa deHart engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Elias Scultori, MCC, an experienced coach with a passion for leadership development and fostering transformation. Elias shares his inspiring journey from a church musician in Brazil to becoming an MCC coach, emphasizing how his lifelong values of connection, growth, and creating space shaped his coaching philosophy. Together, they explore the importance of presence, listening, and the courage to embrace the unknown in coaching. Elias discusses the core distinction between transactional and transformational coaching, highlighting the deeper impact that comes when coaches support clients in uncovering underlying patterns rather than merely addressing surface-level challenges. The conversation touches on key coaching competencies, particularly the role of presence, and how they become second nature when internalized properly. Lyssa and Elias also examine the importance of humility and courage in creating space for clients, encouraging coaches to stay committed to their own self-development through reflective practices, mentor coaching, and supervision. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the balance between structure and flow in coaching, the role of curiosity, and the ongoing nature of professional growth. Elias leaves us with a compelling reminder: coaching is a human-to-human experience, and its true power lies in creating a space for clients to be fully seen and heard. Join us for this enriching conversation that will inspire coaches at any stage of their journey. Connect with Elias on LinkedIn Check out his website to learn more about him. Or subscribe to his YouTube Channel and check out what Elias is up to. Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this inspiring episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart sits down with Dr. David Drake, founder of Narrative Coaching and CEO of The Moment Institute. Dr. Drake shares his transformative journey from grief counselor to a pioneering thought leader in coaching. Drawing from over 25 years of experience, he discusses the power of narratives in shaping identity, fostering growth, and creating sustainable change. Listeners are introduced to the essence of Narrative Coaching, a revolutionary approach that focuses on being fully present with clients and allowing their stories to emerge naturally. Dr. Drake explores why traditional goal-driven coaching can miss the mark and explains how cultivating radical presence and engaging in "serious play" can unlock profound shifts in clients' lives. He highlights the importance of working with what is present, challenging the assumption that clients need to follow predetermined paths. The conversation also delves into the broader impact of coaching, with Dr. Drake reflecting on the evolving needs of the coaching profession and his groundbreaking Five Maturities framework. This model emphasizes personal and professional maturity, social awareness, and the ability to respond to complex human contexts with integrity and compassion. He shares compelling stories from his career that demonstrate how small yet profound moments of connection and insight can lead to lasting change. Dr. Drake’s wisdom, humility, and curiosity shine through as he challenges coaches to reimagine their role, embrace the mysteries of human experience, and create spaces for clients to transform. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the art and science of coaching. Visit his Website Or follow him on LinkedIn And don't forget to check out his YouTube Channel Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this heartfelt episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart engages in a deeply inspiring conversation with Christi Byerly, MCC, a coach, trainer, and founder of the Awaken Coach Institute. Christi takes us on a transformative journey, sharing how coaching shifted her life trajectory from a corporate career in nuclear energy to becoming a leader in the coaching world. Through candid reflections, she reveals how burnout, a friend's coaching sessions, and a serendipitous roundtable conversation in Kenya inspired her to embrace coaching as a pathway to purpose and joy. Christi’s story is a testament to the power of courage and self-discovery. She shares how early coaching experiences helped her navigate major life decisions—from moving across continents to redefining her identity. Her approach to coaching emphasizes empathy, presence, and authenticity, grounded in her own growth through frameworks like Internal Family Systems and Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability. Christi’s honesty about moments of learning, such as revisiting sessions that didn’t fully land with clients, highlights the importance of self-compassion and continuous development as a coach. The conversation also explores the profound importance of connection and community. Christi reflects on how coaching creates spaces for individuals to feel seen and supported and why building trust and vulnerability in group settings is central to her philosophy. Her commitment to cohort-based learning and fostering safe, brave spaces for growth is a cornerstone of the Awaken Coach Institute. This episode is brimming with wisdom, practical insights, and the warmth of two coaches connecting deeply over their shared passion for transformation. Whether you're a coach, a leader, or someone curious about the human experience, this conversation will inspire you to embrace both the light and shadow of your own journey with courage and grace. Don’t miss this compelling dialogue about awakening to your fullest potential. Check out the website Awaken Coach Institute Find Christi on LinkedIn The Awaken Coach Institute YouTube Channel Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this thoughtful and inspiring episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart welcomes Dr. Damian Goldvarg, MCC, a global leader in coaching, leadership development, and organizational psychology, to include Professional Coaching Competencies: The Complete Guide. Damian shares his journey from early work as a psychologist and facilitator for HIV/AIDS support groups to becoming a master coach, global speaker, and author of ten coaching and leadership books. He emphasizes how these formative experiences shaped his values and focus on what truly matters—relationships, self-awareness, and resilience. Throughout the conversation, Damian highlights the importance of coaching supervision, describing how it deepens coaches' awareness, reveals blind spots, and elevates their practice. He passionately advocates for creating coaching cultures in organizations, helping leaders develop coaching skills to build healthier, collaborative, and resilient workplaces. Damian ties this to his latest book, Leadership for Modern Times, which will be coming out soon in English, explores new paradigms and coaching competencies leaders need to navigate today’s complex and volatile world. The discussion also addresses emerging coaching trends, including the rise of artificial intelligence and its impact on the coaching profession. Damian stresses the importance of embracing technology while maintaining the human-centered essence of coaching. He encourages coaches and leaders to stay adaptable, intentional and committed to lifelong learning. Listeners will find Damian’s reflections on systemic thinking, accountability, and balancing short-term results with long-term development both practical and inspiring. Whether you're a coach or leader, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating meaningful impact, fostering personal growth, and navigating the future with resilience and purpose. Check out Damian's website Find him on LinkedIn and Connect Take a look at his YouTube Channel Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this engaging episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart sits down with Clare Norman, MCC, a mentor coach, coaching supervisor, and author, to discuss elevating the practice of coaching through personal transformation and coaching readiness. Clare shares insights from her 20+ years of experience, focusing on her core philosophy of "marginal gains"—small, impactful shifts that can drive significant improvements in coaching practice. She emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts for coaches, advocating that sustainable transformation in clients requires coaches to examine and adjust their own beliefs and habits. Clare highlights key themes from her books, including The Transformational Coach, which helps coaches unlearn restrictive mindsets, and Cultivating Coachability, which provides a framework for assessing coaching readiness. She shares her thoughts on coaching readiness vs. coachability, explaining that readiness involves ensuring coaching is the right fit for a client’s needs, while coachability involves building a client’s "thinking muscles" throughout the coaching process. Throughout the conversation, Clare offers practical guidance on how coaches can shift from transactional to transformational coaching by focusing on "being" over "doing" and creating an environment that empowers clients as thinkers. She also reflects on her personal growth journey and how working with a Gestalt therapist has helped her deepen her awareness, aligning with her mission to continually evolve as a coach. This episode is packed with valuable insights for coaches seeking to deepen their practice and shift their approach to create lasting change in their clients. Join Lyssa and Clare for an inspiring conversation on the art of transformational coaching. You can find Clare on her Website On LinkedIn And on Facebook Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of the Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart welcomes Sheila Carmichael, an accomplished MCC executive coach, leadership strategist, and author. With a journey that began in corporate HR, Sheila shares her evolution into an MCC coach, driven by a passion for authentic leadership and empowering decision-makers to lead with courage and presence. She describes her unique coaching approach, which is centered on connecting the dots for clients, fostering self-awareness, and supporting leaders in navigating complex, high-stakes situations. Throughout the conversation, Sheila emphasizes the importance of creating psychological safety, especially in executive settings where leaders may not always receive candid feedback. She uses relatable metaphors, like playing tennis or selecting the right pair of shoes, to illustrate how leaders can adapt their style to foster engagement and build trust. Sheila also delves into her coaching "secret sauce"—the ability to help leaders gain clarity on their own patterns and decisions, which strengthens their impact and helps align organizational goals with personal values. In a deeply insightful exchange, Lyssa and Sheila explore themes of courage, continuous growth, and the significance of purpose. They discuss how presence in authentic leadership is shaped not only by external behaviors but by internal beliefs, convictions, and the courage to be vulnerable. Sheila’s philosophy underscores that coaching is about drawing out answers within clients, allowing them to lead from a place of authenticity. This episode is packed with powerful insights for leaders, coaches, and anyone interested in fostering growth and innovation within themselves and their organizations. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on authentic leadership, presence, and the art of courageous coaching. Find Sheila on her Website Or on LinkedIn Her new book, Presence: Self-Coaching Strategies, is available now on Amazon Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, Lyssa deHart hosts Mary Anna Wright, PhD, MCC—a distinguished leadership coach, communications expert, and former ICF Ireland president. With an eclectic background spanning from marine biology to rave culture and public relations, Mary Anna brings a unique perspective to coaching, deeply informed by her studies in cultural and behavioral change. The conversation dives into her journey into coaching and her transition from academia and communications into a career dedicated to supporting others in realizing their potential. Mary Anna shares the importance of connection as the cornerstone of her coaching philosophy, describing it as a commitment to help clients connect deeply with themselves, their environment, and their personal ecosystems. She discusses the concept of “the seven-eyed model” from supervision, which encourages coaches to consider the larger systems impacting their clients. This systemic perspective, she notes, helps coaches and leaders navigate the unknown and often complex dynamics of their environments, promoting resilience and adaptability. A key theme in the conversation is the power of presence in coaching. Mary Anna reflects on the evolution of her approach, emphasizing how letting go of the need to “solve” for clients allows a true partnership to emerge. She highlights the journey to mastery as a continuous process of self-awareness, humility, and the practice of holding space for clients without the interference of ego. In addition, she shares insights into the growing influence of AI in coaching, recognizing the human connection as irreplaceable in creating meaningful transformation. This episode offers listeners a profound exploration of coaching’s potential to impact lives, both for clients and coaches alike, encouraging coaches to embrace the journey of learning, self-reflection, and connection. Tune in to hear how Mary Anna combines her love for coaching with respect for the vast complexity of human experience. Learn more about Mary Anna on her Website And connect with her on LinkedIn Or watch her on YouTube Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

On this episode of the Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart welcomes Navid Nazemian, PCC, an executive transition coach and the bestselling author of Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide. With a rich background in human resources and extensive international experience, Navid brings a unique global perspective to leadership and coaching. He shares his passion for supporting leaders through pivotal career transitions, maintaining authenticity in times of change, and his journey from HR professional to becoming a coach. Navid delves into his early realization about the impact of coaching, recounting a transformative experience where coaching turned a struggling leader into a highly considered candidate for larger roles within a year. He explains how this revelation ignited his passion for coaching, leading him to eventually pursue a career helping others navigate their own professional transitions. We explore the Harvard Business Review article: Manage Your Energy Not Your Time by Tony Schwartz– This article is recommended for its insights into optimizing energy levels rather than time, an essential read for maintaining executive performance without burnout. Throughout the conversation, Navid and Lyssa explore the nuances of executive transitions, the challenges new roles present, and the importance of proper support systems during these phases. Navid emphasizes the use of structured frameworks and strategic planning in ensuring successful transitions, highlighting how tailored coaching interventions can facilitate significant growth and change in leaders. Navid explains his Double Diamond process: Listeners will gain valuable insights into the transformational power of coaching, both from the perspective of a coach and a leader, making this episode a must-listen for anyone involved in or interested in executive leadership and personal development. If you want to watch the Backwards Brain Bicycle Video, check it out here! Find Navid: LinkedIn Instagram Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, Lyssa deHart welcomes Claire Pedrick, MCC, an accomplished coach, adventurer, and author of Simplifying Coaching (2020) and The Human Behind the Coach (2023). Claire brings a refreshingly down-to-earth approach to coaching, emphasizing simplicity while maintaining profound impact. Together, they explore how coaching can be powerfully simple, and how Claire's journey—like her 600-kilometer trek on the Camino de Santiago—informs her belief in walking alongside clients as they find their own path. The conversation dives deep into what it means to truly “be with” clients, shedding unnecessary complexity to focus on authentic listening and meaningful partnership. Claire challenges the notion that coaching must be complicated, showing how transformative shifts can arise from a space of simple, genuine presence. Her personal stories, including her long history in coaching dating back to the 1980s and reflections on the commercialization of the field, provide valuable insights for both new and seasoned coaches. Claire shared an idea,"thought partner" and "thinker" which blew my mind and has fundamentally shifted how I think about the concepts of "coach" and "client." This idea originated in the work of Nancy Kline, and her work in Time to Think. Listeners will leave with a fresh perspective on how to facilitate transformative coaching sessions by trusting in simplicity, focusing on what really matters, and allowing clients to lead their own breakthroughs. You can learn more about Claire on her Website Or, connect with her on LinkedIn Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan

In this episode of The Coaching Studio, host Lyssa deHart welcomes Jonathan Reitz, MCC, an executive coach and author of Coaching Hacks: Simple Strategies to Make Every Conversation More Effective. Jonathan shares his unique journey from a career in television to becoming a coach, driven by his passion for leadership development and helping others unlock their potential. Jonathan discusses the profound impact of his early experiences in broadcasting on his coaching style, emphasizing the importance of listening and adapting communication techniques. He provides insights into the art of asking powerful questions and the significance of understanding client narratives to foster effective coaching relationships. Jonathan dives deep into the three key assessments that he thinks every coach should take and how they have shaped his coaching approach: the Motivational Code, the Harrison Assessment, and the Hogan Assessment. He explains how these tools have helped him better understand his own motivations, behaviors, and personality traits, and how coaches can use similar insights to enhance their effectiveness. Additionally, Jonathan emphasizes the importance of reflective practice in coaching, a habit he developed early in his career by reviewing recordings of his coaching sessions. He also shares his top book recommendation, Super Communicator by Charles Duhigg, which explores how different types of conversations—practical, emotional, and social—affect communication dynamics. Jonathan encourages coaches to stay attuned to these dynamics to prevent misunderstandings and foster stronger client relationships. We also discuss his recommendation of Helping People Change by Richard Boyatzis, Melvin Smith, and Ellen Van Oosten. This book explores the science behind coaching and leadership development, emphasizing the power of positive emotional attractors and how they facilitate meaningful, sustained change in individuals. Reitz draws on this work to highlight the importance of vision and purpose in coaching, helping clients move toward their goals with greater clarity and motivation. Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation of the strategic and empathetic elements of coaching that Jonathan advocates, making this episode a valuable resource for both new and experienced coaches aiming to enhance their skills and impact. You can connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn Check out his Website Host: Lyssa deHart, LICSW, MCC, BCC Music: Frolic by Harrison Amer Production Editing: Lyssa deHart Social Media and Communications: Michele Logan