Meeta Zakharia, Director of International DEI at McDonald's, joins the show to talk about the importance of inclusive leadership within the company. Meeta emphasises the six signature traits of inclusive leadership, including commitment, courage, and cultural intelligence.She also delves into recognising biases, strength-based leadership, and balancing long-term goals with short-term tasks. By leading from the middle and outwards, diverse perspectives can be heard within teams, allowing for more innovative and efficient decision-making processes. Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comMeeta Zakharia on LinkedIn

Corinne Jeffrey is the Lead for Coaching, Mentoring and Leadership Development for QinetiQ, an integrated global defence and security company. She is responsible for the development, delivery and implementation of a global strategy for executive coaching, mentoring and leadership development. Corinne is also responsible for the rollout of team coaching across the organisation.Tune into this episode as Corinne unpacks the defence sector's coaching realm. We explore measuring engagement and momentum in coaching, the role of language and conversation framing, the natural, unconscious, and habitual behaviours as part of the culture – and so much more.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comCorinne Jeffrey on LinkedIn

Lian Hillier is the Chief People Officer and The Principles for Responsible Investment, the UN-supported leading proponent of responsible investment. As an advocate for collaborative and supportive working environments, Lian has been instrumental in promoting these values at PRI.In this episode, Lian unveils the strategies for developing a culture of empowerment and making coaching a natural part of an organisation. We will also discuss the timing and conditions that lay the groundwork for this cultural shift, from a new CEO's influence to the commitment of passionate advocates within a company.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comLian Hillier on LinkedInThe Principles for Responsible Investment

Deborah Sweet’s overall goal is to make a difference in the world of scientific communication and publishing. She is the Vice President of Journals, Nature Portfolio for Springer Nature Group, the renowned academic publishing company. Her approach to professional development revolves around self-reflection, challenging established methods, and embracing new perspectives.In this episode, we delve into the shift from traditional leadership styles to one that champions empowerment, open communication, and a culture of psychological safety. You'll also hear real-life examples of how coaching has propelled personal growth and helped solve managerial challenges.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comDeborah Sweet on LinkedIn

Today we dive deep into the transformative world of coaching cultures with two exceptional leaders who have lived the journey, Maureen Sumner Smith and Morna Dason-Barber. Maureen is an Executive Coach, Non-Executive Director and Advisor, and Morna is the HR Director at The Institution of Engineering and Technology.Listen in as we discuss the strategic shift from top-down leadership to a culture of empowerment and collaboration that has sparked innovation and driven success. We unpack reward mechanisms, training for organisational alignment, how a culture remains vibrant even in virtual settings, and much more.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comMorna Dason-Barber FCIPD on LinkedInMaureen Sumner Smith on LinkedIn

Chris Burton is an expert with 15 years of experience in transforming team performance across various business sectors. In this insightful discussion, Trayton and Chris delve into the intricacies of team coaching, exploring the essential elements that differentiate high-performing teams and examining the impact of values, culture, and purpose on team dynamics and performance. They also address the challenges and opportunities presented by the evolving work landscape, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comChris Burton on LinkedIn

Mia Tse coaches and supports women in leadership roles who have multiple priorities such as caring for children entering their teenage years or leaving for university, as well as aging parents or loved ones. Mia joins to Trayton in this episode to explore the unique challenges middle-aged women face and the role of coaching in supporting them. Tune in as we unpack the importance of self-care, the impact of menopause in the workplace and creating a supportive environment for middle-aged women.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comMia Tse on LinkedIn

Ian Dinwiddy is a coach and mentor who helps fathers navigate the delicate balance of being great dads while also excelling in their careers. His work revolves around the idea that being a great dad does not have to come at the cost of career success. Ian joins the show to talk about fatherhood and work-life balance. Tune in to learn more about the challenges men face in taking parental leave, societal expectations, and the need for open conversations around gender equality.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comIan Dinwiddy on LinkedIn

Lara Roche is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, accredited Executive and Life Coach, Workplace Mediator and Facilitator, and regular conference speaker. She is also the Founder of Brilliant Learning, which creates and delivers the ideal learning for organisations through development programmes, Learning Bursts, impactful coaching and individual profiling.In this episode, we dive into the challenges faced by younger individuals aspiring for senior leadership roles. We also discuss the importance of diversity in leadership and the tools to navigate the hybrid world of work.Links mentioned:Lara Roche on LinkedInThe 2020 KPMG Women's Leadership Summit Report

Rosie Nice is a qualified coach and coach trainer. She is the Founder of MAGIC Coaching and author of ‘The MAGIC Happens in the Silence’. Her career began in Learning and Development over 20 years ago, after working at British Airways on their Graduate Development Programme. Rosie joins the show to to discuss the transformative power of reflective coaching. Tune in as we explore the importance of silence, the MAGIC methodology, and how reflective coaching can help individuals reach their full potential. Plus, Rosie uncovers her journey and reveals the seven-step acronym SILENCE for effective listening. Links Mentioned:‘The MAGIC Happens in the Silence’ by Rosie NiceMagic CoachingRosie Nice on LinkedIn

Jenny Brown started her career as a financial statements auditor – in 2018 Jenny leapt into the comparatively unknown and established a much more eclectic and certainly hard-to-describe career! Jenny now works as a coach and coach supervisor alongside being the Chair of a housing association, a consultant in governance and a trainer and facilitator.Tune into this conversation as Jenny delves into pre- and post-career promotion coaching, her person-centred coaching philosophy and what it is that stops individuals from landing their ‘dream job’.Links Mentioned:Jenny Brown on LinkedIn

Executive Coach, speaker, and consultant, Martin Sealy has spent decades traveling and encountering people from various cultures with diverse needs. He has embraced the differences in engagement styles between Israel and Dubai, developing a unique coaching approach that accommodates various cultural nuances.We discuss the need for open dialogue, vulnerability, and the impact it can have on individuals and organizations. Tune in as we unpack practical strategies for fostering inclusivity and celebrating the diverse perspectives that can lead to innovative solutions.Links Mentioned:Martin Sealy on Linkedin

Nicky Frobisher has a deep understanding of the psychological phenomenon known as imposter syndrome. Drawing inspiration from the work of psychologists Doctor Pauline Klance and Doctor Suzanne Immers, who coined the term in 1978, Nicky has observed a similar pattern among the individuals they work with.Tune in to this candid conversation as Nicky unpacks how to overcome perfectionism and fear of failure, the origins of imposter syndrome, how over-preparedness can hinder productivity, and striking a balance between confidence and self-doubt.Links mentioned:Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway by Susan JeffersThink Again by Adam GrantConnect with Nicky Frobisher on LinkedIn

Jennifer Powell has over 20 years experience as a culture change and communications strategist and consultant. She builds on her experience as a Partner at a global HR management consultancy and Executive positions in organisations as diverse as Xerox Europe, Cable & Wireless and Islington Council. Her current clients span many FTSE 100 companies including those in the media, music, financial services legal and pharmaceutical sectors.In this conversation, Jennifer talks candidly about the unique challenges and opportunities women face in their professional journeys. Tune in as we explore psychological safety at work, how diversity leads to higher profits in business and the leadership frameworks matter.Links mentioned:Jennifer’s LinkedIn

Content warning: this episode covers the topic of depression. If you need resources or support, talk to your GP or relevant health practitioner.  As an executive coach, Valerie Stevenson works with both individuals and teams. She is also an accredited supervisor. In her own words what Valerie really wants to be known for is her belief in coaching people from all walks of life which includes coaching alongside those with mental ill-health: “I have had to set some boundaries and acquire new skills and knowledge, but I fundamentally believe this is not an area to shy away from.”Tune in as we unpack the impact of the pandemic on training and development for mental health awareness, mental health first aid training finding, solutions as coaches, and taking care of our own well-being as coaches and supervisors.Links mentioned:‘The Future of Coaching’ by Hetty Einzig‘I Had a Black Dog’ by Matthew Johnston‘Emotional Resilience’ by Geetu Bharwaney‘Atlas of the Heart’ by Brené BrownValerie’s LinkedIn

With over 20 years experience in corporate retail, Nick Foster has held a variety of commercial roles from Buyer to Category Director and involved in a number of Leadership and Women’s Leadership programmes throughout her career. Nicky trained as a coach and recently joined CFG to support the mission “coaching for a better tomorrow” which includes a passion for supporting Women in Leadership roles.In this conversation we uncover the key challenges facing women in leadership roles today, reflections from her own personal leadership journey and working with women one-to-one, and some practical takeaways to help develop their careers. Links mentioned:Mckinsey: Women in the Workplace 2022Deloitte: Women @ Work 2023: A Global OutlookConnect with Nicky on LinkedIn

Before becoming a professional coach, David Butterfield had a successful career in Learning and Development, working with the likes of Aggregate Industries, Dale Carnegie and DHL. He also has a passion for helping those less advantaged to achieve their potential and is a board member with Lindley Educational Trust, a not for profit organisation using outdoor education.We'll explore the concept of breaking through barriers, managing our inner chimp, and the power of coaching tools and models. From expense procedures in companies to childhood beliefs that hinder progress, we'll uncover the barriers that hold us back and discover how coaching can help us overcome them.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.com‘The Chimp Paradox’ by Steve Peters‘The Inner Game of Tennis’ by W Timothy Gallwey‘The Coaching Habit’ by Michael Bungay StanierDavid’s LinkedInLindley Educational Trust

Jane Ferré is a Talent Management Strategist, and runs her own coaching business that helps HR Directors revolutionise their talent management agenda quickly and easily. Tune in as we explore the journey of navigating career transitions and its challenges. We discuss building a strong network, responding to change, and how COVID-19 has impacted sectors. We also uncover democratising development and how to offer the necessary resources for people with potential.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comHBR – Let’s Hear It for B PlayersJane’s WebsiteJane’s LinkedIn

On this episode of Coaching Focus Podcast, our guest, Grant Metcalfe-Smith, dives into the complexities of implementing sustainability initiatives in companies. Grant is an Australian-born finance professional who made a successful career in banking in London. However, four years ago, he decided to pursue coaching in the sustainability space. Grant discusses the importance of stakeholder support and incorporating sustainability strategies into corporate reports. Tune in to also learn more about addressing climate anxiety, the role of direct questioning in coaching, and finding enjoyment and balance in work.Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.com

In this episode, we dive into the importance of leadership, autonomy, and effective communication in the military and beyond. Our guest, Marc Wicks, shares insights from his extensive experience in the Royal Marines and NATO. Mark highlights the significance of understanding the context and situation of individuals, fostering adaptability and growth mindset, and debunking the myth of military command and control. Links mentioned in this episode:Coaching-focus.comMark’s LinkedIn