Episode 12

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Published on:

6th Jan 2026

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 Analysis ideas such as drivers, script beliefs, and discounting.

We offer practical guidance for coaches: work collaboratively, normalise competing commitments, and move slowly and carefully. It’s a thoughtful exploration for coaches who want to move beyond action planning and support deeper, more sustainable change.

Resources:

  1. "The Real Reason People Won't Change" by Robert Kegan and Lisa Lahey (Harvard Business Review, 2001) – The original article that introduces the Immunity to Change framework.
  2. The Immunity to Change Map – You can find versions of the four-column template online to use with your clients.
  3. Transactional Analysis – For those interested in the connections we discuss between TA and this model, explore our previous episodes on psychological drivers, script beliefs, and discounting.
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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

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Gregor is an APECS Accredited Master Executive Coach with 25 years experience who has helped hundreds of senior managers, directors and C-Suite executives undergo transformative change and growth, both personal and organisational.
He is also a qualified Coaching Supervisor.

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

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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.