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

Why coaching the whole person is important in transformational coaching. In this episode, I'm sharing the holistic coaching framework we use at Optimus. I'll explore how this whole-person focused and flexible approach allows for more personalised and transformational coaching experiences.&nbsp;We'll break down the essential components - cognition, emotions, bodily sensations, behaviour, context, and identity to illustrate how you can adapt your coaching style to meet your clients where they are and go deeper in your sessions.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction05:53 Avoid judging; appreciate everyone’s individual differences.08:28 Coaching transforms identity to change behaviour.10:20 Transformational coaching enables impactful, long-term personal change.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/You can find out about my new business mastery course for new coaches here: &nbsp;https://www.ruthkudzi.com/businessmasteryBook: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;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus provide accredited coach training to support you to become a confident, credible coach who gets consistent results with their clients.&nbsp;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 <a...

Have you ever wondered what steps to take if you were starting your coaching business right now?&nbsp;Today, I’m drawing from my eight and a half years of experience in this field. From building solid foundations to identifying and reaching your target audience, I'm sharing actionable insights to set you up for success.&nbsp;Whether you're a new coach or looking to refine your strategy, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you build and sustain a thriving coaching business.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction04:30 Identify valuable problems and target supportive organisations.09:43 Focus on lead generation and business mastery.12:09 Invest wisely in experienced individuals for success.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/You can find out about my new business mastery course for new coaches here: &nbsp;https://www.ruthkudzi.com/businessmasteryBook: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;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/&nbsp;About Optimus Coach Academy:Optimus provide accredited coach training to support you to become a confident, credible coach who gets consistent results with their clients.&nbsp;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.

Today, I’m sharing an innovative coaching framework I developed called the SELFLESS model. Unlike traditional, formulaic approaches, SELFLESS is designed to be completely client-focused, emphasising the importance of building trust, creating a safe space, and forming deep, meaningful relationships with clients. We'll explore how this model highlights the critical role of a coach's preparation and mindset, and how these elements can lead to truly transformational coaching sessions. Join me as I unpack this holistic approach, aimed at empowering clients to find their own solutions and fostering personal growth.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction03:57 Focus on relationship-building for client trust.07:44 Coaching focuses on client-driven learning and reflection.09:52 This framework looks at the role that we play as a coach in terms of our preparation as well as the role that we play within 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/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 <a href="http://winteraudio.co.uk" rel="noopener...

Can AI replace coaching? Today, we're exploring this: something which has been the subject of lots of articles and discussion online.&nbsp;So many people are asking: What will AI's impact be on coaching? Are we heading towards a future where machines replace human connection, or is AI a powerful tool that can elevate our practices? In this episode, we’ll explore the current landscape of AI in coaching, its potential benefits and limitations, and how we can embrace this technological revolution without losing the essence of what makes coaching so transformative.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction03:23 Coaching experience and AI can complement each other.07:35 AI will enhance coaching, professionalizing the industry.10:11 AI necessitates embracing professionalization and coaching skills.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.

Before you make the life-changing decision to invest in a coach training course, you need to arm yourself with essential knowledge to help you make the right decision. In this episode, I explore the ethical landscape of the coach training industry, offering invaluable advice on what to look out for in accredited programs, the critical differences between various levels of accreditation, and why it's crucial to choose a course that aligns with your professional goals. Make sure you tune in to ensure you make an informed and confident choice about your coach training journey.Here are the Highlights:00:54 Why the coaching industry is not always an ethical space.03:36 When I did my initial coach training I was confused about ICF accreditation and didn’t feel I was given the full information.&nbsp;07:17 Make sure you evaluate the course accreditation before booking your training.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...

Are you considering adding in coaching skills to your corporate role? In this week's episode, I’m joined by Simon Dewis. Simon has over 35 years in the corporate world and a significant chunk of that time spent managing teams, Simon shares his journey from traditional management roles to embracing coaching and mentoring. He uncovers how structured learning and practical application shifted his approach to leadership, making him not just an effective manager but a catalyst for change. Prior to training with us at Optimus Simon had solid coaching skills which he developed through the course highlighting the power of practice, and the joy of witnessing those 'aha' moments when his colleagues and clients find their own solutions.&nbsp;Here are the Highlights:01:43 As an experienced manager Simon transitioned from mentoring and training to coaching.05:33 Coaching practice develops skills, taking you beyond your comfort zone09:07 Coaching hours built confidence and credibility.15:21 Simon gained confidence and credibility by training with Optimus.19:40 &nbsp;Optimus diploma has lasting, impactful application as he uses the skills weekly&nbsp;21:39 He is building the LinkedIn profile to share insights and stimulate conversations.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"...

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...