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What does the future of leadership look like when compassion meets accountability? In this episode of The Coaching Podcast, People Expert Kathleen Quinn Votaw challenges leaders to lead without judgment, have fierce conversations, and create workplaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to take ownership of their performance. We explore why caring for the whole human is a leadership responsibility, not just an HR function, and how curiosity, clear expectations, and courageous conversations build stronger teams. Kathleen also shares her trademarked formula for sustainable leadership and her book resources – and reminds us that great coaching begins with one powerful word: compassion. About Kathleen Quinn Votaw – People Expert Kathleen Quinn Votaw is an award-winning keynote speaker on recruitment, retention, and workplace culture. As CEO of TalenTrust, she brings decades of experience helping companies build human-centric workplaces that drive results. A best-selling author, two-time Inc. 5000 honoree, and organizational design expert, Kathleen challenges leaders to rethink how they connect with their people – because winning the talent war starts with designing care into your organizations. Connect with Kathleen Website: https://kathleenquinnvotaw.com/LinkedIn: kathleenquinnvotawInstagram & Facebook: @kqvotaw Kathleen's Two Books 1. Solve the People Puzzle: How High-Growth Companies Attract & Retain Top Talent (2016) This book focuses on the full talent journey: attracting great people, hiring for attitude and values, building a culture where people know they matter, and retaining your best talent. Kathleen's core message is that recruitment and retention require leaders to connect with employees and understand what truly drives them. How do you find great people – and create a workplace they don't want to leave? 2. Dare to Care in the Workplace: A Guide to the New Way We Work (2021) This book moves beyond recruitment into the employee experience, encouraging leaders to build people-centric workplaces based on empathy, trust, transparency, respect, and genuine care. Care isn't just a value – it's a leadership strategy for building trust, connection, and sustainable performance.

Coach EM GEM - LUCK As a sports coach, I never said, “Good luck.” I’d say: “I know you can do this - because of the preparation. Now go and enjoy the battle of competition.” Why? Because I never wanted athletes to believe their performance came down to luck. One of my greatest inspirations is my father-in-law, Cliff Samara. Born in Sri Lanka, he left home at just 15 years old to chase his dreams - and never looked back. His take on luck has always stayed with me: There are probabilities.There are possibilities.And then there are actualities.  You can influence what becomes an actuality through your preparation, courage, and action. Prepare well.Back yourself.Take the opportunity. • Live inspired• Practice improving• Lead with impact

In this episode of The Coaching Podcast, I sit down with Rufus Keown to explore the power of coaching, growth mindset, and what it really means to invest in people. We talk about helping talent see a vision for their future, embracing the compounding effect of getting just 1% better, and using powerful questions to create new possibilities - including the wonderfully confronting question: “I wonder what it would be like to be coached by me?” Rufus shares why empathy, learning, and a growth mindset sit at the heart of great coaching, and why ultimately, legacy is having the courage to make change. About Rufus Keown Rufus is a Dad to Jack, Toby and Ollie, and partner to Tina. He currently works across coach education and business coaching as a freelance coach and facilitator. Previously, he spent nine years with Tennis Australia and Tennis Victoria in leadership roles within coach development. Prior to that, Rufus spent 20 years as Director of the Victorian Tennis Academy, building and running a successful tennis business in Melbourne. Connect with Rufus:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rufus-keown-0b135aa/

What does it mean to live, lead, and coach with greater courage and authenticity? In this deeply personal and honest conversation, Nancy Girres, Vistage Chair and Executive Coach, explores how we close the gap between the life we’re living and the life we say we want. We unpack why motivation is often about creating the right environment, the power of peer groups, making wise decisions, and choosing priorities that reflect who we truly are. Nancy reminds us that you don’t “do” courage, you have courage; you don’t “do” love, you love; and results come from what you choose to do. And when it comes to what makes a great coach? Listen deeply and care enough to challenge someone to consider that their thinking could be different. After all, we only get one beautiful life, so how can we get a little better every day? About Nancy Girres: Nancy Girres is an executive coach, Vistage Chair, and leadership expert based in Northern Colorado. Growing up in a small farm town without mentors or a roadmap, Nancy built her career through what she calls “brave, accidental, and magical decisions,” guided by people who believed in her before she knew how to believe in herself. Today, Nancy brings that same transformative belief to CEOs, business owners, and high-level leaders. She helps them see the potential they haven’t yet named, listen to the dreams they haven’t spoken out loud, and take action, not someday, but now. Known for asking the right questions, holding space with grace, and pulling the best out of individuals and teams, Nancy combines deep wisdom with raw vulnerability in her coaching. She doesn’t just preach candor, she lives it. Through Vistage peer groups, one-on-one coaching, retreat facilitation, and speaking engagements, Nancy challenges leaders to trade comfort for courage and step into more of who they are. Her work is for those ready to recalibrate, rise, and lead from a place of alignment and authenticity. Connect with Nancy: Website: https://www.nancygirres.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FindingNorthWithNancy Insta: https://www.instagram.com/coachgirres/

What if effective learning doesn’t come from being told what to do, but from being invited to explore what’s possible? In this episode, coach developers Sarah McQuade and Linda Low explore why connection must come before learning, how skilled coaches create environments that pull learning rather than push messages, and why great facilitation can make learning feel almost effortless. From games-based learning and the coaching continuum to curiosity, challenge, belonging, self-care, and daring to dream, this conversation reminds us that the knowledge and skill behind great coaching matter – but it’s the human connection that brings learning to life. Sarah McQuade Sarah McQuade is the Founding Director of e.t.c. coaching consultants and an internationally respected leadership, mentoring and coach development specialist. For more than two decades, Sarah has worked with international sport organisations, national governing bodies and leadership teams, helping them design leadership pathways, mentoring systems and learning experiences that create meaningful and lasting change. Her work spans coach development, leadership development, mentoring, organisational culture and learning design. Sarah is particularly passionate about helping individuals and organisations translate vision, values and purpose into practical action. Known for her ability to simplify complex ideas, she creates frameworks, conversations and experiences that help people grow their confidence, capability and impact. Linda Low Linda Low is Programme Director for WISH (Women in Sport High-Performance Pathway), an Olympic Solidarity-funded global leadership programme designed to accelerate more women into coaching and high-performance leadership roles at the highest levels of sport. A highly experienced leadership consultant, facilitator and programme designer, Linda has worked extensively across the international sporting landscape, supporting coaches, leaders and organisations to develop inclusive, people-centred approaches to leadership. She is passionate about creating environments where individuals can realise their potential, build confidence and develop the skills needed to lead effectively. Linda brings a unique combination of strategic thinking, practical experience and genuine care for people, making her a trusted partner for leaders navigating growth, change and opportunity. Together Sarah and Linda regularly collaborate on the design and delivery of leadership, mentoring and coach development programmes across the global sport sector. Together, they bring complementary perspectives and a shared belief that leadership is less about position and more about creating environments where people can thrive. Most recently, they have partnered on the Professional Tennis Registry's global initiative, Women Who Rally, a leadership development programme designed to support and connect women leaders across the worldwide racquet sports community. Their work together combines leadership development, mentoring, reflective practice and community-building to help individuals lead with greater confidence, authenticity and impact. Connect with e.t.c: Website: https://www.etccoachingconsultants.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/etc_coaching_consultants/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/etcconsultants

Coach EM GEM — Start with Strengths We often focus on what people need to improve. What if we started with what they're already great at? Whether you're leading across generations, departments, or personalities, one question can unlock a powerful conversation: "What are your strengths, and how do you leverage them in the workplace?" You might be surprised by the answers. A younger employee may bring fresh ideas, adaptability, and digital fluency. A more experienced team member may bring wisdom, perspective, and pattern recognition. Different generations. Different experiences. Different strengths. The goal isn't to make everyone the same. The goal is to help people recognize their strengths and use them more intentionally. When people know what they do well, confidence grows. When teams understand each other's strengths, collaboration improves. Start with strengths. Build from there. • Live inspired• Practice improving• Lead with Impact

In this episode, Gordon Reid shares why great coaching starts with being a great listener — listening not just with your ears, but with your eyes. We explore the power of keeping an open mind, saying “yes” to opportunities, and treating people the way they want to be treated. Gordon also shares Life Time’s culture of continuous learning, the power of “not yet,” and why almost everything is a skill that can be learned and honed over time. And when pressure rises? Break things down into manageable pieces. About Gordon Reid Gordon Reid is the National Tennis Director for Life Time, which owns and operates more than 190 athletic country clubs across North America. Tennis is a primary focus at 35 locations, and Gordon is based at Life Time Athletic Eden Prairie in Minnesota, a world-class facility featuring six permanent indoor hard courts, six bubbled hard courts, five Har-Tru courts, and four indoor pickleball courts. Learn more:lifetime.life

Coach EM Gem — Coach the Person First One of the biggest mistakes leaders make is coaching the problem before they understand the person. The better you understand the person in front of you, the better you can coach them. Try asking: • What motivates you?• What's your why?• What gives you a sense of purpose?• What does success look like for you?• How do you like to receive feedback?• What makes you happy at work? In sport, I often ask athletes about the books they've read, podcasts they've listened to, role models they admire, and experiences that have shaped them. These clues reveal what they value, how they think, and what drives them. When we take the time to understand someone's world, coaching becomes more personal, more meaningful, and more effective. Remember: Coach the person, not just the performance. • Live inspired• Practice improving• Lead with Impact Here is the TED talk I refer to: "Teach girls bravery, not perfection" by Reshma Saujani.

Many leaders think their job is to have the answers. Jon Purpura believes the opposite. After more than 30 years leading teams at United Airlines, Jon has discovered that great leadership is built on curiosity, confidence, and creating environments where people genuinely want to show up. In this episode, we explore the power of vulnerability, psychological safety, executive presence, and why the quality of our leadership is ultimately determined by the quality of the questions we ask. If you're looking to become a more human, collaborative, and impactful leader, you'll love this conversation. About Jon Purpura Jon Purpura is the Founder of Elevate Advisory, a leadership coaching and advisory firm dedicated to helping leaders unlock their full potential. Following a distinguished 30-year career with United Airlines, Jon now partners with executives and organizations to develop confident, authentic leaders who build high-performing teams and workplaces where people genuinely want to be. Drawing on decades of leadership experience, executive coaching, and positive psychology, Jon helps leaders communicate with greater impact, lead through uncertainty, strengthen relationships, and inspire higher levels of engagement. His mission is simple: help people become the leaders they aspire to be so they can create a lasting positive impact on the people and organizations they serve. Connect with Jon: Website: https://elevateadvisoryinc.com Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-purpura-4b250336/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jon.purpura.5/

Coach EM Gem — Go Curious Micromanagement is often driven by certainty. Coaching leadership is driven by curiosity. The next time you're tempted to tell someone what to do, try one of these instead: ❌ "That won't work."✅ "What if...?" ❌ "Here's the answer."✅ "I'm curious..." ❌ "I don't know."✅ "Imagine if...?" A few of my favourite coaching questions: • What if there was another way?• What options have you already considered?• What are you not seeing?• What would have to be true?• Where could we start? The moment you move from telling to wondering, people start thinking for themselves. The quality of your leadership is often reflected in the quality of your questions. • Live inspired• Practice improving• Lead with Impact

What does it really mean to "know your player"? In this episode of The Coaching Podcast, Coach EM sits down with former ATP professional, Olympic coach, and LTP Academy Co-Director Mike Sell to explore why great coaching begins with understanding the individual. Mike shares practical insights on tailoring development to each player's needs, creating purposeful practice with no wasted repetitions, preparing to win, and remaining calm under pressure—like the flight attendant during turbulence. They also discuss the value of having a second set of eyes on your coaching, the dangers of over-coaching, the importance of asking great questions and listening deeply, and why the best leaders know that coaching is about people, not position. Whether you're coaching athletes, leading a team, or raising children, this conversation is packed with simple yet powerful ideas to help you develop people with greater intention. About Mike Sell Mike Sell is Co-Director of LTP (Live to Play) Academy and Director of the LTP Pro Program. A former ATP Tour professional, Mike reached career-high rankings of World No. 136 in singles and No. 83 in doubles before building an outstanding coaching career at every level of the game. He has coached some of tennis's biggest names, including Serena Williams, John Isner, Tommy Paul, Reilly Opelka, Donald Young, and Monica Seles, and served as Lead National Coach for the USTA and Assistant Coach for the U.S. Olympic Team at the 2012 London Games, where Team USA won three gold medals and one bronze. A four-time All-American at the University of Georgia and recipient of the Arthur Ashe Sportsmanship and Leadership Award, Mike is passionate about developing players and coaches alike, with a coaching philosophy centered on knowing the person before coaching the player. Learn more:  https://ltpchs.com/team/michael-sell-ltp-pro-program/

Coach EM Gem — Are You Speaking the Same Language? A Vistage Chair recently sent me this note after one of my workshops: "I reckon you’re an absolute legend—your energy had the whole room stoked! Fair dinkum, your custom approach was spot-on for the crew’s skillset. And crikey, you nailed it—coaching’s a ripper topic that’s not talked about enough. I’ll be spreading the word like a kangaroo on the hop. No worries, I’ve got zero suggestions—you’re already smashing it!" Needless to say, my American friends found it hilarious. It reminded me of a point I often make in leadership: Never assume people are speaking the same language. In a California workshop, I shared this classic Aussie sentence: "So next arvo, we're gonna head down to the park for a barbie. I'll bring the chooks and snags if you could bring an eski of stubbies. Hopefully this time you won't get crook. Be sure and bring your cossie and your togs since it should be a nice day and it's totally fine to be in your thongs..." The room had absolutely no idea what I was talking about. The lesson? Communication is not about what you say. Communication is about what the other person understands. As leaders, coaches, parents, and teammates, we often assume our message is clear because it makes sense to us. But clarity lives with the listener, not the speaker. Before moving on, ask: "What did you hear?""What does that mean to you?""Can you tell me that back in your own words?" Because effective communication isn't what you say. It's what they hear. • Live inspired• Practice improving• Lead with Impact

Communication isn't just a leadership skill - it's leadership itself. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Erina Reddan, a former foreign correspondent, award-winning journalist, and communication coach, to explore why great leaders don't just share information - they create meaning. We unpack the power of storytelling, why our brains are wired to connect through stories, how to communicate with both logical and emotional clarity, and why every conversation should begin with the problem before jumping to the solution. Erina also shares powerful lessons from reporting in crisis zones, revealing how leaders can stay human under pressure, take the heat out of difficult conversations, and navigate uncertainty with confidence. One of my favourite takeaways: AI is a tool, don't let it be you! About Erina Reddan Dr Erina Reddan is a Walkley Award-winning (which is Australia’s equivalent to the Pulitzer prize if you need this) former foreign correspondent, television and radio presenter, author, and communication coach who has built a career at the intersection of storytelling, leadership, and impact. With a PhD in story-telling and a background in crisis communication, Erina focuses on the power of story, leadership in uncertain times, building resilience, and how communication can shift culture and transform outcomes. Her unique blend of real-world experience, from the frontlines of global reporting to the boardrooms of Australia’s most influential organisations means she equips you with practical tools and powerful insights to communicate with clarity, lead with confidence, and become more impactful as coaches and leaders. Connect with Erina:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-erina-reddan-b327034/ Website: https://www.redriver.net.au/

Coach EM Gem - Do You Want to Go to the Next Level? Many people say: "I want to go to the next level." That's a good start. But a better question is: "How can I grow to the next level?" Wanting is intention. Growing requires action. The key is not making a giant leap. The key is making the first step so small and so easy that you can't talk yourself out of it. Growth happens when action follows intention. So instead of focusing on the next level, focus on the next step. Because every level you've ever reached started with one simple action. • Live inspired• Practice improving• Lead with Impact

In this episode, I sit down with Isaac McBroom, Education Manager for the PTR and author of A Constraints-Led Approach to Coaching Tennis. We explore why great coaching is less about giving instructions and more about creating environments where people can learn, adapt, and discover solutions for themselves. From Theory of Mind and Ecological Dynamics to leadership, autonomy, and decision-making, Isaac shares why coaching is ultimately a collaborative dance between the learner, their environment, and the coach. About Isaac McBroom Isaac McBroom is the Education Manager for the Professional Tennis Registry (PTR), a coach developer, educator, and former ATP/WTA tour coach with more than a decade of experience in high-performance tennis. Known for bridging the gap between coaching science and practice, Isaac has played a leading role in modernizing coach education through ecological dynamics and the constraints-led approach. He is the author of A Constraints-Led Approach to Coaching Tennis and works with coaches around the world to design learning environments that develop adaptable, creative, and resilient athletes. Connect with IssacWebsite: https://ptrtennis.org/Insta: Isaac.mcbroomBuy Issac's book on AmazonBonus Viewing:Sir John Whitmore's famous golf lesson demonstrating the difference between "Ask" versus "Tell":https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ncb1jjRZyNU