Practically Coaching

In the final episode on the VUCA framework, Alex and Melissa talk about ambiguity . Doubt and delays often occur when teams lack complete information. As individuals assess incomplete information, they naturally try to fill in the gaps. The result - team members have various interpretations that create confusion about current and future needs. Leaders can foster progress by focusing on adaptabilit...

Today’s discussion focuses on complexity . In comparison to the other aspects of VUCA, complexity often stems from too much information rather than too little. You and your team may find it difficult to parse the information and identify cause-and effect-relationships. The key is to focus on the things you do know. We discuss prioritizing transparent and consistent communication that can help you...

As we continue to work through the VUCA framework, this episode focuses on uncertainty. When things are uncertain, we can react by searching for more data, more specific details, more information to help us navigate the situation.  But leaders have a choice.   Rather than operate in a silo, leaders can instead foster open dialogue and draw others into the conversation. One of the best ways to addr...

In this episode, we talk about leading through volatility. Volatile situations are characterized by speed and force. When a change seems to come out of nowhere, the impact can feel outsized for leaders, their teams, and their organizations.  Alex and I explore ways to foster both focus and flexibility to successfully navigate the way forward. We discuss how re-focusing on purpose, adjusting timefr...

This episode is the first in a series focused on leading through uncertainty. Recently, we’ve been talking with many of our clients about ways to adapt their leadership to current conditions. As things become more uncertain and ambiguous, it can feel more difficult to make decisions, collaborate with peers, and provide clear guidance to your teams. Many leaders feel the need to speed up. They feel...

Melissa and Alex reflect on their conversations with recent guests - Laura Peterson, Sue Sleigh, and Katie Redford - and offer listeners a summary of tools and techniques they can use in their own lives. Their conversations spanned various aspects of leadership, sustainability, and collaboration in nonprofit and social justice work. Each of these women shared insights on maintaining passion, humil...

Melissa Bloom and Alex Carleton welcome Katie Redford, a social justice leader, to discuss the importance of authenticity in leadership. They explore how passion drives leaders, the role of emotions in decision-making, and the significance of community support in sustainable leadership. Katie shares her journey in fighting corporate power, particularly in the fossil fuel industry, and emphasizes t...

Melissa and Alex continue their conversation with Sue Sleigh about the nuances of leadership in the nonprofit sector. They explore the motivations behind nonprofit leadership, the importance of setting boundaries, empowering teams, and the role of values in guiding decisions. The discussion emphasizes the significance of creating a culture of feedback and the impact of living one's values as a lea...

In the 2nd episode of our interview series, we welcome Sue Sleigh, a leader in nonprofit healthcare. Sue talks with us about the importance of authentic leadership in challenging times. We explore themes such as the burden of care on frontline workers, the necessity of collaboration, and the role of humility in leadership. Sue shares insights on balancing efficiency with humanity, engaging stakeho...

In this episode, we welcome Laura Peterson, a seasoned leader in the nonprofit sector. Laura joins us to discuss the evolution of leadership over the last few years. Laura shares insights on the need for adaptability, collaboration, and humility among leaders, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing team well-being and sustainability. The conversation explores the challenges faced by nonprofit...

This episode is the first in a series featuring discussions with leaders from nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. We invited 3 people to talk with us about how they're adapting their approach and what they’re prioritizing right now. Our intention was to provide a platform for open and honest discussion. We invited our guests to share their experiences and insights freely, and they wowed u...

People who are new to coaching often wonder what to expect. Almost everyone has participated in some type of professional training and many think coaching will be similar; however, the 2 are quite different. In this episode, we explore the fundamental differences between coaching and training. We discuss the dynamics of each environment, emphasizing the interactive nature of coaching compared to t...

In this episode, Melissa Bloom and Alex Carleton discuss one of their favorite ways of working with people - - group coaching. They explore its structure, benefits, and the unique community it fosters among participants. They share personal experiences and insights on how group coaching can support individual leadership development while emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and trusting e...

In this episode, Melissa and Alex discuss team coaching - - how it can foster team collaboration, performance, and the achievement of shared goals. They explore team dynamics, the role of questions in coaching, and the significance of defining clear goals and expectations. The conversation highlights several benefits of team coaching, including fostering trust, clarity, and adaptability within tea...

In this episode of Practically Coaching, Melissa and Alex delve into the complexities of expectations in leadership, exploring the balance between external feedback and internal motivation. They discuss the importance of aligning personal values with professional roles, the role of mentorship in navigating career challenges, and the significance of self-reflection in achieving authentic leadership...

In this episode, Alex and Melissa explore the idea of readiness for coaching and ask if anyone can feel 100% ready. They dig into the recipe for success - - discussing the importance of curiosity, the desire for change, and the role of uncertainty in the coaching process. The conversation highlights that coaching is not just for those in crisis, but is also an amazing tool for personal growth and...

In this episode, Melissa and Alex discuss how their personal values of authenticity, community, and generosity shaped this podcast and impact their work as coaches. They explore their goals for the podcast, the significance of sharing experiences, and the nature of coaching conversations. The discussion highlights their desire to create a space for connection and personal growth, while also reflec...

In this episode, Alex and Melissa explore the purpose behind their podcast, focusing on the value of coaching and how it can help individuals navigate their personal and professional lives. They discuss the importance of self-reflection, noticing changes, and the practical strategies that can be applied in everyday life. The hosts emphasize the significance of community and shared experiences in t...