Ep 178: Building Trust and Adaptability in Coaching with Robert Stephenson

What is it really like to build a coaching business from scratch? This episode explores how I built my coaching business Ruth Kudzi Coaching Ltd and how it might have seemed like an overnight success however the truth is different.&nbsp; You're in for an honest and transparent look into my story from my early leadership roles to navigating confidence dips and mastering the balancing act of family and entrepreneurship.I share the pivots, the challenges, and the triumphs that shaped my path. You'll hear about everything from my first non-paying clients to crossing that elusive 10k a month revenue threshold and all the lessons learned along the way. Plus, I delve into how I transitioned to building a thriving training business while maintaining a coaching practice that I love.Here are the Highlights:01:12 Coaching inspired a career shift; I began properly coaching in 2008.&nbsp;05:16 Years of coaching experience and training helped my success: I was using skills I already had.&nbsp;09:29 I balanced one-on-one coaching and online courses with limited work time due to having young children, facing criticism for my schedule and realised had to focus on what worked for me.&nbsp;12:28 Launched a group program transitioning from employee to entrepreneur; faced challenges but grew, achieving a 5k revenue month by November 2016 and consistent 10k months from May 2017 onwards.&nbsp;16:09 Many people misunderstood coaching as directive, but it’s actually about empowering individuals to take ownership.My approach using mentoring and coaching offers something unique.&nbsp;18:44 Finding a supportive network has been crucial but challenging, impacting both personal and professional life.23:01 If you have any questions you want me to cover about my business or coaching journey on the podcast, get in touch: I’m running a new mastermind for established coaches from February next year.&nbsp;About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Book:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: <a href="https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

The path to coaching is different for everyone, and I love learning about each journey. I chatted to Fay Blakey, PCC who is one of our core team here at Optimus to explore how she has developed within the coaching space and her own individual journey. We discuss her passion for people development, mentorship, coaching and supervision. Discover the moments that defined her path, why she passionately values continued training and accreditation, and how she's dedicated her career to breaking down the barriers that hold people back from unleashing their full potential.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:04:40 We're more than our job roles.08:11 How she switched paths into what she does now&nbsp;12:11 Being inspired in a mastermind to learn coaching&nbsp;15:14 Coaching is about growth and realising your full potential.18:33 Connecting with purpose helps us to find meaning.23:06 Mindset shifts are crucial for coaching and growth.25:12 Enjoying coaching supervision; deeper, transformational client work.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Book:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/&nbsp;Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimuscoachacademy" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Discover what it takes to build a successful coaching business. I chat with executive coach Deborah Bulcock, who shares her journey from the banking world to thriving as an independent coach. From the initial challenges to finding her authentic path and achieving financial success. Join us as Deborah shares invaluable lessons, profound insights, and actionable advice that every aspiring coach needs to hear. You don't want to miss this candid conversation about resilience, self-belief, and the power of nurturing your true passion.Here are the Highlights:05:50 Left corporate job with a strong sense that she was good at what she does&nbsp;09:05 Treats her coaching business as a commercial venture but uses the&nbsp; significant majority of her time doing something she absolutely loves.11:51 You do have to get into a place of discomfort because you're going to be selling yourself in a way you've probably never had to do before.16:24 Networking and being able to handle rejection are crucial for success.19:06 Being visible on social media and platforms like LinkedIn can attract clients.21:16 Build a supportive network; love your work passionately.24:15 Start now; avoid waiting for perfect conditions.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Book:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Step into the world of transformational leadership, where we explore trust, interconnectedness and adaptability in coaching. I’m joined by Robert Stephenson, a coach with a deep passion for leadership, systemic work, and group coaching. Together, we dive into the dual role of leaders, the transformative power of coaching, and the importance of adaptability in meeting client needs. Robert shares his journey, from becoming a coach in educational settings to integrating unique interests like fire walking and Reiki into his practice. We also discuss the balance of professional boundaries, flexibility in coaching approaches, and the significance of listening to one's inner voice.Here are the Highlights:04:40 Developing perspective helps clients and coaches progress.07:25 Curiosity in coaching improves teaching and leadership.09:54 Started coaching in schools after curious questioning.15:13 Adapt coaching to meet diverse client needs.16:30 Framework as a playground, not a prison.21:09 Coaches question their own desires alongside clients.23:20 Coaches benefit from coaching; mutual learning process.29:27 Facing ourselves fosters change and courageous choices.34:29 Community is crucial; fosters connection and support.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and am award winning&nbsp; trainer, coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is the course director and CEO at Optimus which provides ICF, EMCC and AC accredited training courses to individuals and organizations. She has over 30 years experience studying Psychology including a BA, MA and PGCERT and is passionate about integrating it with coaching. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Book:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: <a...

Discover the art of balancing planning with flexibility as you transition into a full-time coaching career with insights from Nicole Louise Winer. In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I sit down with Nicole, a seasoned mentor and business coach, to delve deep into the nuances of establishing a structured yet adaptable business plan. From leveraging your unique strengths and preferences to navigating the often daunting shift from a corporate environment to your own coaching practice, this conversation is packed with practical strategies and motivational support.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:03:10 Craves and rejects structure; needs flexible planning.07:51 Experimentation reveals personal effectiveness and true preferences.09:35 Feeling left out due to others' event participation.14:48 Consider future actions that you will appreciate today.17:50 Misaligned goals with personality; prefers personalised approach.20:15 Knowledge becomes powerful only when applied effectively.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Ruth is starting a new program for up to 25 coaches click here: https://www.ruthkudzi.com/mentormasterBook:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/&nbsp;Linkedin:...

Ready to transform the dynamics of your coaching practice? In today’s episode, I speak to Crystal Small. Crystal is not just any coach, she's a seasoned professional with roles ranging from supervisor and mentor to trainer and facilitator. Currently, she brings her expertise part-time to the Optimus Coaching Academy while running a successful coaching business.Together we explore the unique dynamics of team coaching, contrasting it with 1:1 coaching and delving into the complexities of facilitating multiple voices and perspectives in a collective setting. Using the metaphor of an orchestra, Crystal illustrates how a team can either harmonise beautifully or hit those discordant "bum notes" if not properly guided.We also discuss the importance of contracting, understanding team culture, and recognising the various archetypes individuals play within a group. Crystal shares valuable strategies on how to harness these roles to create a cohesive and transparent team environment, filled with trust and mutual respect.Here are the Highlights:04:25 Collective contracting ensures alignment of team values.08:37 Recognise room archetypes: comedian, inventor, cynic.11:11 How you show up impacts the team.14:08 Creating safe space for truth and growth.18:45 Truth-sharing builds trust, fostering genuine connections through conflict.22:36 Love leadership teams; breaking the mold fascinates me.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Ruth is starting a new program for up to 25 coaches click here: https://www.ruthkudzi.com/mentormasterBook:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: <a href="https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

What do you do when you start doubting yourself? Today I am covering a topic that touches us all, whether you're a coach or not. Self-doubt is normal and in this episode I share my own personal stories, emphasising that doubt is a universal part of the human journey. I take you through transforming a small bit of self-belief into a strong foundation through steps like daily reflections and celebrating small wins. Listen in to discover how you can strengthen your internal game and confidently share your talents and passions with others.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:00:28 Building self-relationships to share talents confidently.02:02 Personal stories of dealing with self-doubt.06:28 Check self-belief and take action daily.08:39 Believe in yourself, take action, and change lives.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Ruth is starting a new program for up to 25 coaches click here: https://www.ruthkudzi.com/mentormasterBook:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/&nbsp;Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Produced by...

What is the PERMA model? Ruth explains the powerful model, a concept developed by Martin Seligman, one of the founders of positive psychology. PERMA stands for Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment. Ruth shares how the PERMA model can be a transformative tool for coaches, providing a framework to measure and enhance clients' well-being. From positive emotions to engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishments, Ruth breaks down each element and shares practical tips on how to apply them flexibly to meet the unique needs of every client.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:00:28 PERMA model teaches well-being and growth.05:14 Balancing emotions for well-being.09:07 Finding meaning, contribution, accomplishments, optimism, health habits.10:54 Coaches using PERMA to adapt with clients.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Book:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/&nbsp;Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Produced by Winter Audio.

Ruth takes us into the fascinating world of Transactional Analysis (TA) in coaching. With her extensive background in psychology, Ruth explores the foundational principles of TA - such as "I'm okay, you're okay" - and discusses how these concepts can enhance the coaching relationship by fostering equality, trust, and empowerment. She also explores the Drama Triangle, a powerful model to understand interpersonal dynamics, identifying roles like the victim, rescuer, and persecutor, and how shifting these roles can lead to healthier, more effective interactions. Tune in now to learn more.Here are the Highlights:01:17 Looking through the lens of Transactional Analysis (TA)06:05 Adult communication, parent-child dynamics, and exploring relationships.08:32 The drama triangle: reflecting on interactions and seeking self-improvement.13:36 It is about reflecting, where are we? Where do we want to be? Who do we want to be, how are we showing up?&nbsp;About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Ruth is starting a new program for up to 25 coaches click here: https://www.ruthkudzi.com/mentormasterBook:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/&nbsp;Linkedin: <a...

Creating a safe and trusting space in coaching is not just jargon, it's the cornerstone of effective relationships. In this enlightening episode, host Ruth Kudzi explores trust and safety within coaching environments, sharing how to create genuine connections with your clients.&nbsp;Tune in to discover practical strategies and thought-provoking perspectives on how to foster trust, from initial discovery calls to ongoing sessions. Join Ruth as she unpacks the importance of being human first and creating a non-judgmental, supportive space for your clients to thrive.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:05:02 Deeply listening, building rapport, understanding clients is essential.09:50 Trust and safety through empathy and compassion.11:39 Building relationships with clients for effective sessions.About Ruth Kudzi:Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is a MCC level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach Ruth was a senior leader in education.Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/Ruth is starting a new program for up to 25 coaches click here: https://www.ruthkudzi.com/mentormasterBook:How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books&nbsp;Connect with Ruth:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;Twitter: https://twitter.com/ruthkudzicoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates.If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training&nbsp;We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/Connect with Optimus Coach Academy on Social Media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy&nbsp;Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/&nbsp;Linkedin: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimuscoachacademy" rel="noopener noreferrer"...