Ep 227: Building a Successful Coach Training Business & The Future of Coaching: A special Interview with host Ruth Kudzi

What makes a truly transformative coaching education and how can new coaches learn to trust their unique voice?&nbsp;In this special episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, it’s my turn to be in the hot seat. I am being interviewed by the brilliant coach Lisa Hopper.&nbsp;We chat about what makes Optimus Coach Academy unique, how a truly holistic approach to coaching development is delivered, and what the future of coaching looks like. Including the rising impact of AI, the importance of vulnerability, and building self-acceptance as a coach.Whether you’re considering coach training, care about inclusivity, or want honest insight into what it takes to stand out in the industry, this episode is for you.Here are the highlights:00:00 Why I am being interviewed, not hosting, and my guest host Lisa Hopper00:50 The Optimus approach: Why clients love hiring Optimus graduates02:36 Nearly 1,000 coaches trained, I reflect on growth and celebrating milestones03:33 How to create a holistic, non-cookie-cutter curriculum at scale05:42 Helping new coaches balance frameworks with developing their unique style07:48 “Who am I to coach?” The value of vulnerability, imperfection, and empathetic role modeling10:31 The myth of perfection and the power of real connection13:34 Moving beyond transactional coaching to whole-person change18:58 The reality of credentialing and how it fits into a coach’s long-term career19:30 AI in coaching: Fears, opportunities, and what can (and can’t) be replaced24:22 How future-proofing your coaching career means developing deep, holistic skills29:48 The power of a diverse learning community to accelerate your growth30:30 Creating inclusivity and diverse representation at Optimus34:09 My&nbsp; proudest achievement: Impact, outcomes, and team35:13 The importance of feedback and learning from discomfort as a coach and leader36:20 What’s next for Optimus: Upcoming diplomas, corporate training, and my new book.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 an 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"...

What does it ‘really’ take to build a thriving coaching business and why do so many new coaches underestimate what’s involved? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I’m sharing honestly about the practical realities, the mindset shifts, and the foundational steps that set successful coaches apart.Drawing from my own journey and years of mentoring coaches at all stages, I break down the essential ingredients for building a sustainable business, from mastering your core coaching skills to finding your target audience, developing authentic messaging, and navigating the ups and downs along the way. If you want the no-BS version of what works, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights:00:00 Why building a coaching business isn’t as complicated as it looks01:08 The realities of entrepreneurship02:25 Why running your own business is hard but rewarding03:55 Why delivering results is non-negotiable for sustainable growth04:41 Do you really need a niche? Why a target audience matters05:20 How your experience, values, network, and story inform who you serve06:16 The power of positioning: why your “why” and connection to your niche matter07:27 How to communicate value beyond “coaching”08:25 Packaging your offer08:58 The many ways to get clients09:22 Measuring, testing, and refining what works in your business development10:09 How to reflect, learn, and adopt a coaching mindset for long-term growth11:40 Building your business model12:54 Defining your vision of success and choosing the path that works for youAbout 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 an 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...

What are the changes to the ICF competencies?At the start of September the ICF released updates to the competencies and I’m sharing what this means for your coaching practiceIn this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I break down the latest updates from the International Coaching Federation, explaining what’s changed, why it matters and how you can put these new standards into practice.We’ll dive into the nuanced shifts in language, the emphasis on ongoing professional development, inclusivity, and even the careful addition of knowledge-sharing within coaching. Whether you’re new to ICF accreditation or a seasoned MCC-level coach, make sure you tune in to learn more.Here are the highlights:00:00 Introduction: The ICF’s forward-thinking approach and what’s changed01:39 The 8 ICF competencies and what’s new03:01 Why supervision and mentor coaching are now essential for all coaches04:11 Adding technology and best practices, plus addressing bias06:44 Encouraging curiosity within ourselves, clients, and the coaching process07:57 Defining your unique coaching philosophy and communicating it08:51 Ongoing agreement: recontracting and adapting to client needs09:17 Maintaining presence as a coach and having awareness of self and client09:43 Shifts in language towards greater inclusivity and partnership10:09 The controversial update: when (and how) to share knowledge as a coach13:03 Integrating learning and progress: new emphasis on embedding change13:49 Final thoughts: ICF as a guiding light in the profession and what’s nextAbout 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 an 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...

Have you ever found yourself questioning how to truly look after your own wellbeing as a coach, especially when your job is all about supporting others? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore the importance of self-care for coaches and explore practical strategies to avoid coaching burnout. Having personally been close to burnout a few times in my career, I share real-life insights, practical tips, and models like PERMA to help you audit and improve your wellbeing, whether you’re an established coach or just starting your journey.We’ll explore what wellbeing really means in the context of our coaching work, how to recognise the early signs of burnout, and ways you can build routines and rituals that help you thrive, not just survive.&nbsp;Here are the highlights:00:00 Introduction: Why wellbeing matters for coaches&nbsp;&nbsp;02:31 Noticing emotional balance and influences on mood&nbsp;&nbsp;03:10 The basics: food, sleep, movement &amp; energising work&nbsp;&nbsp;04:39 Overcoming isolation and building support&nbsp;&nbsp;05:19 Responsibility, growth, and sustainability in coaching businesses&nbsp;&nbsp;06:09 Disengagement, over-responsibility &amp; boundaries&nbsp;&nbsp;06:42 Coaching burnout: essentialism and red flags&nbsp;&nbsp;07:56 Managing drains: social media, energy, and business choices&nbsp;&nbsp;08:30 Mapping your ideal coaching week&nbsp;10:25 Personal wellbeing rituals10:54 The role of community and asking for help.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 an 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: <a...

Ever feel like you or your team are struggling to find your rhythm after a summer break? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore the unique challenges and opportunities that come with reigniting momentum in teams after a pause.&nbsp;I’ll be sharing my personal experiences and actionable strategies for team coaches and leaders: how to reset, re-centre, and inspire your people so everyone feels engaged, valued, and ready for growth. Whether you’re in a formal team coaching role, leading your own team, or simply want to cultivate stronger group dynamics, there’s plenty here for you. This is a must-listen if you want your team to return from any break re-energised and unified for the final quarter of the year.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction and why post-summer is a pivotal time for teams&nbsp;&nbsp;01:11 Why trust and safety matter so much in effective teams&nbsp;&nbsp;02:33 How to reset team norms, values, and behaviours after a break&nbsp;&nbsp;03:20 The power of feedback, focusing on lived experiences as a diagnostic&nbsp;&nbsp;04:56 Getting clear on team vision, values, and alignment&nbsp;&nbsp;05:53 Strengths mapping: Why voice and choice matter for engagement&nbsp;&nbsp;07:02 Dealing with transitions, resetting dynamics as people come and go&nbsp;&nbsp;07:59 Making what isn’t working visible and discussing it openly&nbsp;&nbsp;09:11 Creating agency, informal connections, and shared goals, especially for remote teams&nbsp;&nbsp;10:35 Celebrating progress, fostering mission, and supporting individual needs&nbsp;&nbsp;10:55 Final thoughts: Why balancing individual with group perspectives is key.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 an 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: <a href="https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Ever feel like September brings more of a fresh start than January? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore the power of “new beginnings” in the coaching process. Why clients are drawn to change at this time of year, and how coaches can harness this energy to guide meaningful transformation. I’ll be sharing my favourite techniques for helping clients visualise success, set intentional goals, and establish the routines and rituals that sustain progress beyond the initial excitement of a fresh start.This is a practical, inspiring episode for any coach or client looking to reset and make the most of a fresh start, no matter when it arrives.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction: September as a “true” new year01:08 Why clients seek coaching during transitions02:15 The importance of individualised coaching04:00 Visualisation, vision boarding, and ways to connect with future goals04:56 Goal-setting: Navigating individuals’ preferences and working with both the “what” and “who”06:32 Supporting routines, flow state, and energizing habits07:59 Helping clients step into decision-making and their “A-game”09:32 Aligning routines and rituals to seasons&nbsp;11:10 Helping clients (and yourself!) reset after a break and cultivate long-term successAbout 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 an 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...

Ever wondered if coaching really has to happen in a home office or over Zoom? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore the creative possibilities and the evidence-backed benefits of taking coaching sessions outside or at least beyond your usual four walls. Whether you’re a coach or a client, you’ll discover why the environment matters so much to thinking, connection, and wellbeing. I share my personal experiences, practical advice, and thought-provoking questions to help you rethink your coaching setting so you can support your clients.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction: Rethinking the coaching environment&nbsp;01:05 Moving beyond traditional settings&nbsp;02:13 Why are we stuck on Zoom?04:07 The impact of environment on coaching presence07:47 Nature’s role in perspective and creativity&nbsp;&nbsp;08:41 The less-confrontational magic of outdoor coaching10:09 Integrating movement and outdoor elements11:13 Challenging the norms, a change in environment can serve clients in powerful, creative ways.&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 an 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...

Ever wondered how to keep momentum and deepen your impact as a coach when routines get disrupted like during summer holidays or life’s inevitable “in-between” moments? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore what it really means to maintain the coach-client relationship during periods of pause or transition.Listen to discover practical ways to empower your clients to take ownership, maintain connection without constant contact, and leverage breaks as an opportunity for deeper growth. In the coaching relationship, space to think can be just as important as time spent together.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction: The power and process of coaching for change&nbsp;&nbsp;01:35 Rethinking session frequency: Why space matters for integration02:57 Navigating consistency: What happens when coaching takes a pause04:04 Empowering the client, not owning their progress&nbsp;&nbsp;05:22 Boundaries &amp; communication: Staying connected while maintaining clarity&nbsp;&nbsp;07:18 The coach’s true role: Facilitation versus fixing&nbsp;&nbsp;08:34 Building trust and client ownership beyond sessions&nbsp;&nbsp;10:08 Coaching for self-trust and autonomy&nbsp;&nbsp;12:57 Use insights from breaks to fuel future sessions14:03 Celebrate trust, space, and the connection between you and your 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: <a...

Are you looking for some inspiration for your summer reading list? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I invite you into my world of summer reflection, journaling, and building your own resource library. I share how revisiting your own journals can be just as powerful as picking up the latest coaching bestseller, and how to find the books, podcasts, and tools that meet you (and your clients) where you are right now.&nbsp;Whether you’re journaling, reading, or listening this summer, let your curiosity lead the way and discover just how transformative it can be, for both you and your clients.Here are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction: Why summer is the perfect time to read and reflect01:08 The value of revisiting your own journals for growth and insight03:31 Feeding your brain: Different ways to learn, from books to podcasts04:11 Choosing books that align with your coaching interests (I love neuroscience!)05:55 Expanding your horizons by exploring outside your usual frame of reference07:28 The balance between curiosity and protecting what you feed your brain08:21 Challenging your biases and considering different perspectives10:10 Integrating new learnings into your coaching practice11:06 Let your curiosity (and your clients’) guide your summer reading list.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/"

Are you tempted to take the entire summer off from your coaching business, hoping things will pick up in September? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore the realities of running a coaching business during the quieter summer season and why the popular “just chill out” advice might actually slow your growth. Join me as I share real stories, hard-won lessons, and my best strategies for making summer a season of building momentum, not losing it. Whether you’re balancing family life, feeling the financial pressure, or simply wanting to prepare for a powerful September, this episode is packed with insights to keep your business thriving, no matter the seasonHere are the Highlights:00:00 Introduction01:00 Starting a business takes time, consistency, and energy02:12 In the early years, I didn't take long summer breaks because of work and family commitments04:13 Your business context changes as your life circumstances change06:50 Use quiet summer months for outreach, building relationships, and content creation to keep growing your coaching business.10:35 Stopping business activity every holiday can kill momentum; commit to core business activities even during the summer months.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:...