

Coaching Conversations in 2025
Tim Hagen
Coaching Conversations with Tim Hagen, where we teach leaders and managers how to coach their employees. This is the ideal podcast for leaders, managers, and aspiring leaders to improve their coaching and leadership skills to create a more positive coaching culture within their teams.In 2025, we're doing weekly podcasts on various coaching topics and strategies that will rotate throughout the month, as opposed to 2024 where the weekly episodes featured a monthly theme. Coaching Conversations will continue to have four episodes per month and we're going to sprinkle in masterclasses, which will be lengthier, workshop-style formats.We also invite you to join the new FREE e-publication, the Workplace Coaching Times founded by Tim Hagen. This weekly newsletter contains expert insights on coaching strategies on specific topics like sales coaching, leading with empathy, and self-awareness techniques, and much more. We're a community of leaders, managers and coaches transforming workplace challenges into coaching victories—one conversation at a time. Subscribe here: https://coachingtimes.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 26, 2023 • 7min
The Craving for Human Connection Amid AI Advancements
Send us a textAre we embracing an era where artificial intelligence (AI) could potentially replace the human factor in professional coaching? Today, we're diving into this hot topic, exploring the intricate balance between AI's efficiency and the irreplaceable power of human connection. As AI seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, enhancing everything from slide decks to content writing, we find ourselves at the intersection of independence and longing for human interaction, a sentiment amplified by the pandemic working conditions. Are we setting ourselves up for a similar craving in the coaching industry as we lean more on AI?In the second half, the conversation takes a personal turn as we reflect on a chilling encounter with AI and job security. As we probe the changing dynamics across various industries and professions, we also uphold the value of human leadership. The significance of a leader understanding their team's aspirations, connecting, and fostering growth remains a crucial aspect that AI can't replicate. We discuss our AI tool called CoachApply, and its limitations in navigating human emotional intelligence, further highlighting the need for a human touch. Join us as we navigate the power of human connection in the age of AI.Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Nov 19, 2023 • 10min
Unlocking the Power of GRIT: A New Perspective on Effort, Purpose, and Coaching
Send us a textReady to unlock the powerful concept of grit? We promise you'll leave this episode with an inspiring new perspective on the role of effort, purpose, and motivation in our lives. Drawing on the transformative insights from Angela Duckworth's book, Grit, we dissect how this seemingly simple concept can redefine coaching practices. You'll hear about the profound impact of recognizing effort, uncovering one's personal purpose, and the surprising influence of parenting on mindset. We don't just talk concepts; we also share impactful real-life stories that underscore the power of positive reinforcement.Meet our esteemed guest, Tim Hagen, who unravels the indispensable role of grit, practice, and coaching in personal and professional growth. Tim drives home the power of effort and repetition, illustrating how they chart a path to sustainable progress. You'll discover how coaching skills can be a game-changer in various workplace situations, whether it's managing challenging employees or fine-tuning team dynamics. Tim wholeheartedly endorses Duckworth's book and inspires you to ask, "What am I doing to enhance my career outside of work?" You'll learn how progress coaching can be your secret weapon to fostering grit and achieving towering success. So, hit play, soak in the wisdom, and up your grit game!Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Nov 19, 2023 • 4min
Unleashing Potential with the Whiteboard Coaching Strategy
Send us a textAre you ready to revolutionize your leadership strategy? This episode of our podcast unveils a potent tool that could seriously upgrade how you coach your team. We're talking about none other than the dynamic whiteboard coaching model. This coaching technique not only aids in understanding motivation but helps you manage your team more effectively. It's all about facilitating conversations that spotlight your team member's current state, desired state, and the road map to bridge the gap. Strap in for a rich exploration of this model, which kicks off by identifying individual strengths and areas of improvement in the current job role. The magic begins when we shift to visualizing the ideal work scenario. The conversation culminates in defining what it takes to transition from the present state to the desired one, empowering your team to co-author their path to improvement. Most importantly, the use of a whiteboard as a focal point creates a non-threatening, collaborative environment that fosters open dialogue and self-awareness. This game-changing method shifts the coaching conversation dynamic, stimulating self-awareness and intrinsic motivation. Perfect for leaders eager to foster a positive, collaborative coaching environment. Tune in, and let's get coaching!Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Nov 15, 2023 • 9min
Navigating the 'Coaching Teeter Totter': Balancing Manager's Expectations and Employee's Aspirations
Send us a textWhat if your manager's offer of promotion isn't what you want or need? What happens when a well-intentioned company decision doesn't align with your intrinsic motivators? This is what we unpack in our discussion of the 'coaching teeter totter.' We examine the balance between a manager's expectations and an employee's aspirations using a real-life example of a high-performing graphic designer who dreaded promotion. We shed light on coaching models that can help leaders understand the essence of their team members' motivations and the importance of aligning them with their job roles.As we further explore the 'coaching teeter totter,' we share strategies to maintain a healthy balance. By tying an employee's motivators into their current role, a transformation can occur in workplace dynamics. One such example is 'Bob,' an employee looking for a change. We walk you through Bob's journey from monotony to re-igniting his passion for work, underscoring the magic that happens when leaders take responsibility to understand and support their team's aspirations. So, join us, and discover the delicate art of navigating the 'coaching teeter totter.Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Nov 12, 2023 • 5min
Discovering Desire: Crafting Questions to Uncover Workplace Motivations
Send us a textWhat if you could unlock the secret to understanding what truly motivates people and apply this knowledge effectively in workplace scenarios? Welcome to our latest podcast episode, where we unravel this fascinating topic and share experiences from our work with a financial institution. We discuss the critical importance of asking the right questions that help individuals identify their own desires and motivations. We also delve into the dichotomy of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, laying out strategies to identify and leverage both for improved communication and productivity.We narrate an intriguing story about a graphic designer whose true motivations were misunderstood by her company, illustrating the significance of aligning individual motivators with organizational intentions. This is a compelling demonstration of the fundamental principle that motivates people: their desired state, or their "end game." We also explain how to craft questions that reveal this desired state and how people view their current roles. Join us as we dissect the dynamics of motivation, equipping you with the tools to understand your own and others' motivators, thereby enhancing your ability to communicate effectively. Let's embark on this exploration of motivation in the workplace. You wouldn't want to miss out on these insights!Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Nov 5, 2023 • 10min
We Are All Full of Shit at Some Point
Send us a textImagine if you could unlock abilities within yourself to push past the status quo and truly improve your craft. That's exactly what we're delving into today, exploring the power of self-awareness and the value of continuous improvement. We reflect on how our journey to success isn't always a straight line and discuss the role of grit in shaping our path. We ponder on the importance of being realistic with ourselves, particularly about the efforts we invest and how that translates to our growth. Ever wondered how you can cultivate grit, finding that burning passion and letting it fuel your growth? We examine this intriguing topic, sharing an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity and achieving success with the help of a mentor. We uncover the essence of self-reflection and the incessant quest for enhancement, leaving you with insights from Angela Duckworth's influential book "Grit." This episode promises to fill your mind with ideas on discovering your passion, nurturing grit and taking responsibility for your own learning and development. So gear up for a thought-provoking exploration of personal growth!Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Nov 5, 2023 • 7min
The Mystery of Personal Motivation and its Influence on Success
Send us a textWonder why some people seem fueled by passion while others struggle to find motivation? Discover how motivation is a deeply personal concept, one that's intimately tied to our life stories and individual circumstances. In this engaging conversation, we unravel the tale of a young sales leader who grapples with motivating a seasoned sales veteran, only to uncover a surprising, personal reason behind his motivation. We challenge the common notion that money alone motivates all salespeople, offering a fresh perspective on the many complexities of individual motivation.In the latter part of our conversation, we explore the guiding principle at Progress Coaching: understanding what truly motivates someone before attempting to motivate them. We illustrate this with a hypothetical scenario involving a future leader, showing how understanding her motivation to become a better leader can address interpersonal conflicts and facilitate positive change. This episode invites you to think critically about what truly motivates you and those around you, potentially unveiling surprising breakthroughs and renewed energy. Tune in, and let's delve into the many nuances of motivation together.Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Oct 29, 2023 • 3min
Supercharging Your Career: The Power of Supplemental Coaching and Self-Guided Learning
Send us a textEver wondered how you could take your career from point A to point B? This is your chance to absorb the transformative knowledge that supplemental coaching provides. We delve into the thrilling world of self-guided learning using resources such as books, videos, and online courses, and illustrate this with the example of Mark, a budding marketing and data analytics professional. From internal and external mentors to peer-to-peer coaching, you'll uncover a rich tapestry of techniques to supercharge your learning journey.But that's not all! We also emphasize the importance of asking the right questions and investing in personal growth. As we explore the best data analytics resources available, you'll be inspired to see how supplemental coaching can seriously amplify your direct coaching efforts. With accountability and learning projects bridging the gap, you'll find that supplemental coaching is not just a supplement, but a key driver in your career progression. So, gear up and join us on this insightful journey of learning and growth!Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Oct 22, 2023 • 6min
Leadership Coaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Send us a textAre you ready to enter the fascinating intersection of leadership coaching and artificial intelligence? This episode catapults you into the midst of a captivating debate - are leaders going to delegate their coaching responsibilities to AI platforms, or is the irreplaceable value of the traditional leader-subordinate relationship still paramount? Get ready to decrypt this intriguing conundrum with Progress Coaching, a front-runner in the field with over 31 years of experience.As you journey through the episode, you'll gain insights into the significance of using a coaching framework like QALMS, highlighted in Forbes magazine, for ensuring consistency. You'll see how the language we use during coaching, what we say and how we say it, can profoundly impact an employee's response and overall performance. We'll also traverse the future landscape of employee appraisals and discuss the potential backlash if AI redefines these crucial end-of-year reviews. Gear up to explore the future of coaching, the role of AI, and the essential elements that leaders need to be conversationally prepared and performance-driven.Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165

Oct 22, 2023 • 4min
Taking Control: A Journey to Career Ownership and Progression
Send us a textAre you taking control of your career or are you letting your company do it for you? Break free from complacency as we guide you on a journey to career ownership, a path where you no longer rely on your company for career progression. We discuss the importance of consistency, continuity, and the crucial role of coaching in achieving your career goals. We'll also be revisiting Mark's story from our previous episodes, as he navigates his way into the marketing and data analytics field. Using Mark's example, we introduce 'learning projects for accountability,' a powerful tool to keep you focused and accountable between coaching sessions. We also revisit two of our previously discussed coaching strategies - whiteboard and goal-based coaching - and explain how they can help you uncover the skills required for your desired career. So, quit waiting around and take charge of your own career progression. Listen in, as we uncover the strategies to navigate you towards your professional aspirations.Welcome to Coaching Conversations We have created a NEW and Innovative line of books called Workplace Coaching Books. These books use QR codes with embedded audio and video lessons speaking directly to the reader. Each book comes with assessments and journal based coaching pages where they document what they've learned and what they've applied. In addition each book comes with the self analysis link that prompts them to share what they've learned and what they've put into action leading to greater learner application a Progress Coaching 360 is a dynamic leadership development system that equips managers and teams with powerful coaching skills through a blend of training, real-time practice, peer learning, and feedback. It combines expert-led instruction, a train-the-trainer model, group coaching certification, and monthly coaching pods where leaders practice, share wins, and tackle challenges. With built-in accountability and hands-on application using Coaching Cards and best practice sessions, Progress Coaching 360 turns coaching from theory into action—building a sustainable culture of growth, feedback, and performance. Progress Coaching 360 teaches leaders how to coach and employees how to develop coachability skills. This unique combination helps build great workplace cultures. Get More Info Here: https://form.jotform.com/251187914739165