The Difference Between Reflection and Reflexivity in Coaching

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1. 

   S5 · E12 · 6 Jan 2026 · 38 min

   How Do We Help Clients When They're Really Stuck?

   We explore why even highly capable, motivated clients can stay stuck despite knowing what they want to change. We introduce Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey’s Immunity to Change model, which reveals how unconscious competing commitments can quietly block progress - not through resistance, but through self-protection. The model is brought to life through a live example, as Sarah works through the four-column process and uncovers the hidden assumptions shaping her behaviour. The conversation shows how these protective patterns develop for good reasons, and how the model connects with Transactional…

2. 

   S5 · E11 · 11 Nov 2025 · 34 min

   Why taking your time in coaching matters

   We explore why taking your time at the start of a coaching session is one of the most powerful, and most frequently overlooked, skills in coaching. We unpack the common tendency for coaches, especially those under pressure or early in their practice, to leap toward solutions the moment a client states a goal. Through rich metaphors like the tandem bicycle, the pencil sharpener, and the Bake Off proving drawer, we show how deeper exploration at the outset creates clarity, focus, and stronger outcomes. We link this slow, spacious beginning to the ICF competencies, highlighting why establishing…

3. 

   S5 · E10 · 14 Oct 2025 · 33 min

   Narcissism: tools for coaches and their clients

   In this episode we explore how coaches can support clients who are dealing with a narcissistic boss . We unpack what narcissism truly means - beyond social media clichés - and discuss the difference between narcissistic personality disorder and narcissistic tendencies that may still create toxic dynamics at work. We highlight common signs that a client might be working for a narcissist, such as self-doubt, confusion, or feeling “never good enough,” and examine the systemic factors that can keep such leaders in place. We emphasise the importance of reflective practice and supervision to help…

4. 

   S5 · E9 · 23 Sep 2025 · 35 min

   Contracting in coaching: beyond the tick box

   In this episode we unpack contracting as a living, multi-layered practice rather than a one-time formality. We explore three distinct levels of contracting: Administrative – The essentials: when and where sessions happen, confidentiality agreements, cancellation terms, fees, and note-taking. Professional – Clarifying goals, purpose, scope, and whether to involve other parties such as a line manager or HR. Psychological – The unspoken relational agreements, unconscious patterns, and “felt sense” of the coaching space. Drawing on real-world examples, we show how unconscious dynamics - such as…

5. 

   S5 · E8 · 5 Aug 2025 · 31 min

   Discounting: how clients unconsciously keep themselves stuck

   In this episode we discuss how clients can inadvertently keep themselves stuck by ignoring aspects of themselves, others or the situation. Discounting is a classic topic that emerges in coaching sessions. We share how using Julie Hay’s “Steps to Success” model can help to shed a light on a client’s discounting beliefs and create more enabling ones. This approach is versatile in its application, but can be practically applied in-person through using physical cards on the floor and walking side-by-side with a client, helping them to embody each stage in the process. We offer useful coaching…