Episode 11

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Published on:

11th Nov 2025

Why taking your time in coaching matters

We explore why taking your time at the start of a coaching session is one of the most powerful, and most frequently overlooked, skills in coaching. We unpack the common tendency for coaches, especially those under pressure or early in their practice, to leap toward solutions the moment a client states a goal. Through rich metaphors like the tandem bicycle, the pencil sharpener, and the Bake Off proving drawer, we show how deeper exploration at the outset creates clarity, focus, and stronger outcomes.

We link this slow, spacious beginning to the ICF competencies, highlighting why establishing and maintaining agreements requires more than simply naming a topic. The conversation also touches on the psychological drivers behind the rush to “get going,” including the TA hurry-up driver and the unconscious desire to appear helpful. 

We share our three practical tips, as well as personal practices that help us stay grounded and intentional, from mindfulness to checking our internal drivers. It’s a thoughtful, encouraging conversation for any coach wanting to strengthen presence, clarity, and quality in their sessions.

Resources:

  • Nancy Kline, “Time to Think” & “More Time to Think” (especially helpful for more experienced coaches)
  • Claire Pedrick / 3D Coaching, Metaphors and practices for sharpening focus and staying client-led
  • Emma Donaldson-Feilder & Liz Hall, Relational Mindfulness Programme

Paul Heardman, Article on supervision from a constellationist perspective in Coaching at Work

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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.