Episode 1

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Published on:

29th Apr 2025

Overwhelm and the value of internal work in senior leaders

In this episode, we explore the highly relevant topic of overwhelm and how this shows up in coaching, especially with senior leaders.

We talk about developmental fallback and the need for leaders to be aware of their internal states and triggers, especially during times of stress, So they can avoid reverting to less resourceful behaviours. This is also something coaches need to be aware of to meet their coachees at the appropriate level. 

We discuss the value of taking the time to resource yourself, and paying attention to preparedness, so you can be less reactive to your environment and increase your effectiveness as a leader. You’re in charge of your environment, not vice versa. 

We also touch on practical strategies for reflection, including structured journaling to help leaders become more trigger-aware. We share the power of breathwork as a free, accessible tool for managing stress and enhancing focus. 

Tune in for actionable insights encouraging personal growth and effective leadership in challenging times.

You will notice that this season has a slightly different format of a more casual conversation, perhaps the kind you might have during coaching supervision - we hope you like it!

Resources:

Article: Leaders and overwhelm

Video: Above and below the line

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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 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

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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.