Episode 4

full

Published on:

10th Jun 2025

Empathy vs. compassion in coaching

In this episode, we dive into the critical distinction between empathy and compassion in coaching, exploring how these concepts influence the effectiveness of coaching sessions.

Drawing from our own coaching and supervisory experiences, we discuss the importance of boundaries, self-awareness, and personal responsibility in both coaching and supervision.

We touch on how coaches can maintain their energy and emotional resilience in their practice.

As usual, we share our 3 top tips.

If you found this episode useful, please consider leaving a positive review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners!

Resources:

Robin Shohet: This isn’t a direct quote but he encourages coaches to pay exquisite attention to how someone makes you feel.
Kristin Neff: Self-compassion expert, with further resources on her website; https://self-compassion.org

Next Episode All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

RSS Feed

Show artwork for The Coaching Question

About the Podcast

The Coaching Question

Exploring the world of coaching in business, for coaches, users and buyers of coaching

Two experienced executive coaches, Sarah Turner and Gregor Findlay discuss topics pertinent to those that commission and use coaching in organisations, as well as for coaches themselves.

We want more coaching conversations to be happening in the world and while there are lots of resources targetted at coaches, there seem to be less targetted at helping those that bring coaches into organisations.

About your hosts

Gregor Findlay

Gregor is an APECS Accredited Master Executive Coach with nearly 20 years experience who has helped hundreds of senior managers, directors and C-Suite executives undergo transformative change and growth, both personal and organisational.

Gregors mission is to help leaders and leadership teams develop and grow so they can make an even bigger difference for themselves, their people and society. My role is helping others be more free and able to have happier, successful, and more worthwhile lives.

Sarah Turner

Sarah’s an experienced Executive and Maternity Coach, and business psychologist. She has many years’ coaching experience working across a range of sectors working with professionals, managers and leaders.

On a personal level, Sarah is passionate about empowering women to combine both their personal and professional lives once they become a mother. Her coaching approach is pragmatic, supportive but challenging where appropriate, enabling women to gain clarity about what is most important and manage their transition with renewed confidence.