The AC Podcast

In this inspiring episode of our 'Day in the Life of' podcast series, host Maxine Bell sits down with Helen O'Grady, an experienced coach and supervisor who brings her background in paediatric nursing into her coaching work within the health, social care, and education sectors. Helen shares her powerful journey from healthcare to coaching, shedding light on the unique challenges and opportunities in supporting professionals working on the front lines. Maxine and Helen explore how coaching can transform leadership and client care in health and social care, the emotional toll of frontline work, and how coaching supports burnout prevention and emotional wellbeing. They also discuss the persistent funding challenges and why coaching should be prioritised in high-impact environments like the NHS, social work and education. Helen also discusses the importance of supervision for coaches and the evolving conversation around professional regulation in the coaching field. She shares honest reflections on the mindset shifts required in helping professions—from "rescuing" to empowering clients—and why self-trust and community support are vital for sustainable coaching practices. Full of insights and tips, Helen's passion and care for coaching and supervision light up the conversation. If you are feeling uncertain about coaching in any way or seeking a new perspective and purpose in your practice, this podcast episode is for you! · Discover the value and impact of coaching in the health, social care, and education sector · Learn how to shift from a "rescue" mindset to one that supports agency and empowerment · Understand the critical role of supervision in sustaining ethical, reflective, and resilient coaching "From the moment I discovered coaching, I was like, wow, this is fantastic. I still get so much joy from all aspects of it; I feel very blessed to have found it." Tune in next week as Helen hosts a new 11-part podcast series: Coaching Supervision Uncovered! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_day-in-the-life-of-coaches-supervision-frontline-professionals-inspirational

In the final episode of our 'Coaching as a Leader' podcast series, Jen Kidby is joined by Linda Beatty, Senior Manager of Culture and Engagement in Bank of Ireland, to explore the growing role of leader coaches in formal coaching programs within organizations. They delve into how structured coaching engagements—distinct from day-to-day mentoring or informal support—can elevate leadership development across an organization. Linda shares her personal journey, while highlighting the practical considerations leader coaches must navigate - from contracting and the challenges of confidentiality to the importance of support systems and supervision. You'll discover why leader coaches bring unique value through their organizational insight and how they create psychological safety when coaching colleagues and employees. Learn the impact that leader coaches can have on colleagues within their organization and the organization itself, as well as the wider impact in the day to day lives of leader coaches themselves. Linda shares the rationale for utilizing leader coaches over external coaches. She offers invaluable insights, guidance and strategies that will both inspire and inform leader coaches and organizations considering formal coaching. We hope this series has inspired leaders, leader coaches and coaches supporting leaders. If you would like a more in-depth knowledge on this topic you can find the 'Coaching as a Leader' book in book shops and online. You will learn: · How formal coaching unlocks leadership development across the organization. · How structured frameworks and boundaries are essential. · How support systems, such as peer networks and coaching communities fuel success. "Formal coaching is a structured relationship between two people, the coach and the coach. And in an organizational setting, that's obviously a colleague or an employee…someone you don't know." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-as-a-leader-formal-coaching-future-leaders

In this episode, Jen Kidby is joined by leadership development coach Tony Worgan to explore how the language leaders use shapes the culture, dynamics, and performance of their teams. Tony shares insights from his coaching practice, highlighting the power of being intentional with words and the impact of "discounting" language—subtle phrases that can unintentionally diminish a person's contributions or confidence. He encourages leaders to shift from reactive or rescuing behaviours toward more open, curious coaching conversations. By staying present rather than striving for perfection, leaders can create psychologically safe environments where people feel heard, valued, and empowered. Tony also introduces practical tools from transactional analysis like the Drama Triangle which outlines the roles of Rescuer, Persecutor, and Victim in unproductive dynamics, and shows how to break out of these patterns. He explains the importance of "strokes"—small, meaningful recognitions that fuel trust and motivation—and offers advice on finding the right balance of positive and constructive feedback. The conversation emphasizes the long-term benefits of a coaching mindset, where thoughtful communication becomes a foundation for trust, growth, and stronger relationships at work. You will learn · How language shapes workplace culture and either builds or breaks trust. · Practical advice for leaders on open communication and addressing issues directly. · The ideal ratio of positive to negative 'strokes' for building trust and resilience in teams "Coaching transformed my whole experience of myself as a leader, my identity as a leader, and all my workplace relationships." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-as-a-leader-language-workplace-culture

Join coaches Ross Hunter, with over 20 years in leadership, and Katy McGregor, an HR professional passionate about coaching, in an engaging discussion on evolving leadership roles. They delve into the tension between providing expert advice and empowering teams. With insights on fostering a culture of inquiry, they emphasize the need for self-awareness and embracing a coaching mindset. The conversation tackles how organizational cultures influence leadership styles and encourages exploring collaborative, question-led approaches to enhance team dynamics.

In the premiere episode of our Coaching as a Leader podcast series, host Simone Sweeney talks to coach, supervisor and author Jen Kidby, and AC Head of Corporate Membership and Accreditation, Victoria Leath, to discuss the important topic of leader as coach and the launch of the AC's new book: Coaching as a Leader. Together, they share the inspiration behind the book and explore why coaching skills are now essential for leaders navigating today's complex, people-centred workplaces. Designed to set the stage for the series, this conversation offers a compelling introduction to the evolving role of leadership in driving culture, engagement, and performance through coaching. Jen and Victoria delve into the core themes of Coaching as a Leader, including the shift from directive, top-down management to a more collaborative, coaching-led leadership style. They highlight how key coaching competencies—such as emotional intelligence, active listening, and self-awareness—are crucial for fostering trust, clarity, and resilience within teams. The episode also offers practical guidance for leaders looking to integrate a coaching mindset into their everyday practice. Jen and Victoria emphasize the importance of aligning these skills with organizational values and strategy to create lasting impact, and the growing trend of coaching as an essential component of organizational culture post-pandemic. An inspiring conversation for leaders of any level, as well as the coaches supporting them in our ever-changing world. You will learn: · Coaching-oriented leadership fosters stronger, more supportive organizational cultures. · Core coaching skills—like self-awareness, active listening, and emotional intelligence—are vital for effective modern leadership. · Aligning coaching practices with organizational purpose enhances both individual and business performance. "They're realizing that coaching is becoming a must, with people and strategies. Companies that are focusing on coaching cultures see a higher engagement, for various different things like innovation and retention." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-as-a-leader-coaching-skills-leadership-book

In this episode of our Day in the Life series, we speak with coach, supervisor, TedX speaker, and author Val Mullally. Join us for a rich and thought-provoking conversation that explores reflective supervision, psychological safety, parenting coaching, self-care, and so much more. Discover Val's inspiring journey from schoolteacher to coach, and how her passion for emotional intelligence and child development evolved into her work in coaching and supervision. Val unpacks her unique TRAKC© model, a simple yet profound framework designed to support psychological safety in coaching relationships. She shares her thoughts on parenting, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult behaviour and relationships, as well as why coaching supervision is reflective and not hierarchical. Val also discusses Kubler-Ross, Gabor Mate and others who have inspired her work. The conversation dives into grief, forgiveness, the need for feminine energy in the world and the wonders of using creative modalities in coaching and supervision. This is years of wisdom packed into one hour just for you! You will learn: · More about the TRAKC© model and how you can attend her upcoming webinar · Why Val believes supervision is an essential practice for every coach · The need for continuous learning and adaptation in the coaching profession "I think supervision is absolutely foundational to being present in a way that really holds and supports and values people." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel_day-in-the-life-of-coaches-reflective-supervisor-author

In this episode, we explore how coaching has been integrated into RELEASE, a bereavement programme which uses exercise in the form of non-contact boxing and mindfulness to enable participants to express their emotions and focus on their own individual outcomes. Host Julie Flower is joined by Claire Henry MBE, a coach specialising in palliative and end-of-life care, who shares her involvement with RELEASE to support those dealing with grief. Claire explains how the programme works and what a typical session looks like. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, non-judgmental environment and highlights the program's incredible positive impact on participants' emotional and physical well-being. Claire explains how participants benefit from an environment where they did not have to talk and where 'all emotions were allowed.' Learn why participants preferred a coaching approach instead of counselling, and why peer support was also a vital part of the programme. Claire explains how the programme was funded, evaluated and what they are planning in the future, providing lots of valuable tips for coaches who may be interested in this type of work. This innovative programme demonstrates the power of combining disciplines to aid healing, and improve wellbeing. You will learn: · How the RELEASE programme was set up and run · The feedback and benefits to participants · The challenges and highlights of working in partnership with other disciplines "One of the quotes from a participant was, 'It was just so refreshing that all emotions were welcome.' They felt so great that they could just let go and talk, and not talk if they didn't want to, just really belt the punching bag." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-for-good-bereavement-boxing-release-programme

In this episode, our host Julie Flower discusses the transformative power of coaching within the criminal justice system with Jeffrey Wotherspoon, a coach from the charity Spark Inside, and Elliot, a participant in the Black Hero's Journey program. Jeffrey explains Spark Inside's mission and programs, including the Hero's Journey and Black Hero's Journey, which help young men in prisons challenge their beliefs, understand their identities and embrace their potential. Elliot shares his personal experience, emphasizing how coaching helped him gain self-awareness, and envision and create a brighter future. Jeffrey explains the criteria for young men to join the programme, emphasising they choose to come through their own desire for change. Learn about the qualities and skills needed to join Spark Inside as a coach and hear the outstanding results that are being achieved. Elliot shares what he is doing now and what his plans are for his future. This episode demonstrates the power of coaching to help transform lives and pays homage to the resilient young men brave enough to step forward into a new future for themselves. You will learn: · The role of coaching both prisoners and prison officers in the criminal justice system · Why the Black Hero's Journey was needed and how it is helping young black men in the criminal justice system · Future directions and goals for Spark Inside and its coaching initiatives "The impact has been very positive. I found out my true potential and realized that if I really wanted to achieve something, I could literally achieve it…and that's what I'm doing now." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-for-good-black-heros-journey-prisoners-transformation

In this special episode, our host Julie Flower, dives into an inspiring conversation with guests Lindsay Henderson and Shaun Armour from Your Voice Counts, a charity based in Northeast England. Discover how they are challenging perspectives with a groundbreaking scheme that trains people with learning disabilities and autism to coach the professionals responsible for their support. Shaun, one of the coaches and Lindsay, Head of Communities, share how co-production and lived experience aren't just buzzwords – they are essential tools for transforming support systems, empowering individuals and creating meaningful change. Learn how this innovative model developed, the training process and the shift in power dynamics in during the coaching relationships. Lindsay and Shaun offer honest reflections on what it takes to make this approach work, why accessibility and representation matter and how the scheme is making a tangible difference for both coaches and professionals. They also share their hopes for the future, including plans to expand the model and embed it into services across more regions. If you're looking to make your coaching practice more inclusive, authentic, and impactful, this is an episode you won't want to miss! You will learn: · How lived experience can reshape professional coaching and improve services for people with learning disabilities and autism. · The importance of co-production and accessible training in building inclusive coaching programs. · The challenges and triumphs of implementing a lived experiences coaching model within professional settings. "Having a coach opposite them with a learning disability or autism, and they're communicating with them in an equal power relationship, was just my favourite bit of the whole thing, because it started to challenge people's perceptions about people, about people's opportunities and about what people can achieve." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-for-good-learning-disability-autism-lived-experience-coaches

In this inspiring episode of our Coaching for Good series, we dive deep into the transformative power of coaching and mentoring for disengaged and vulnerable youth. Host, Julie Flower is joined by Duncan Cherrett and Ana Collier from Young Devon, a leading charity in the southwest of England dedicated to supporting young people who need more help than traditional systems offer. They share how using a coaching philosophy in their work has provided empowering lifelines for many young people navigating complex life challenges. Duncan and Ana discuss the evolution of their innovative mentoring programs, the requirements and qualities needed to become a young person's coach, the challenges of securing consistent funding, particularly for preventative work, and the significance of local knowledge and partnerships. They also explain the significance of different methods of evaluation in demonstrating the impact of their programmes. Listen and learn how a relational, coaching-based approach can reignite potential, foster trust, and build futures that once seemed out of reach. You will learn: · The importance of building trust and rapport with young people · Specific projects and initiatives by Young Devon aimed at supporting youth · The training and support they provide to their coaches and mentors "The Empowering Enterprise Project was probably our most successful, where the freedom to be able to select the timeline, which was really important, and I think allowed far more success than you normally would get with some of those fixed term mentoring programs." Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us bring you more valuable content. For the episode resources and guest bio, please visit: https://www.associationforcoaching.com/page/dl-hub_podcast-channel-coaching-for-good-young-people-mentoring