Talking about Coaching

Yannick Jacob, Siwash Zahmat & Nicki Drab
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Does what it says on the tin: We talk about coaching. We, that is Yannick, Siwash and Nicki. We love coaching, collectively got a tonne of experience, knowledge and charm; and we all felt it was time to give something back to our wonderful coaching community. Whether you're a life coach, work with organisations or practice any other form of coaching, you can ask us anything and we'll discuss it for and with you so you can learn, grow and develop your practice and business skills!

  1. Deep Dive: From Corporate to Coaching Classical Musicians with Ruth Cooper-Dickson

    1d ago

    Deep Dive: From Corporate to Coaching Classical Musicians with Ruth Cooper-Dickson

    Welcome to this episode of Talking about Coaching, the podcast from coaches for coaches.  This episode is one of Yannick's deep dives into one topic or person and we’re talking about coaching with Ruth Cooper-Dickson who shares her inspiring journey from doing corporate work to coaching classical musicians, highlighting what it takes to break into a new line of work as well as innovative approaches to wellbeing and resilience through music and positive psychology. In July 2026 Ruth will be presenting the insights and learning from this journey at the European Conference for Positive Psychology (ECPP) in Dublin, and we thought it would be excellent to offer the conference audience (as well as a wider one) access to a deeper dive into how she made this dream happen, her approach to working with musicians and performers, and her experience along the way. KEY TOPICS - How to launch a successful coaching pilot - Building resilience and confidence in musicians - Community and relationship building through arts - Using strengths and values in coaching ABOUT RUTH Ruth Cooper-Dickson is an award-winning positive psychology practitioner, trauma-informed coach, and founder of Thrivership Coaching™. A published academic, her recent practitioner research focuses on classical musicians, and she has developed and delivered a positive psychology coaching programme for musicians and composers in collaboration with the Royal Philharmonic Society, bringing evidence-based wellbeing tools to the unique pressures of a life in classical music. Her earlier academic work explored post-traumatic growth and coaching, a thread that continues to underpin her practice. Ruth launched her wellbeing consultancy after her own experience of mental ill health, including Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and chronic burnout. That lived experience sits at the heart of her work, where she helps individuals and organisations start open, honest, and human conversations about Mental Wealth. Her trauma-informed approach to thrivership coaching supports people to grow after adversity rather than simply recover from it. She has been a patron of the UK anxiety charity No Panic since 2018. Alongside her coaching, Ruth is a radio broadcaster who has hosted live since 2024, and a keynote speaker who has delivered talks for global brands, combining academic research with real-world insight. A certified breathwork leader and Mental Health First Aid Instructor of over a decade, she has trained thousands worldwide. Learn more about Ruth and her work at https://ruthcooperdickson.com/ Ruth on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthiecoops/ Ruth’s Substack Coffee with Coops: https://ruthcooperdickson.substack.com/ Ruth’s Podcast Espresso with Coops: https://ruthcooperdickson.substack.com/podcastRuth’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthcooperdickson/ Listen to Ruth every Friday 0730-1000 BST as she hosts the Breakfast Show: https://www.chelmsfordcommunityradio.com/  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coaching and Music03:11 Ruth's Journey into Positive Psychology and Coaching06:00 The Intersection of Music and Healing08:52 Creating a Coaching Program for Musicians12:07 The Structure and Goals of the Coaching Program15:08 Navigating the Unique Challenges of Classical Musicians18:00 The Role of an External Coach21:00 Feedback and Impact of the Coaching Program24:00 Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned33:51 Embracing Creativity and Growth36:14 Building Relationships in Coaching39:26 Collecting Stories and Experiences40:44 Identifying Personal Values and Strengths42:36 The Importance of Humility in Performance44:01 Creating Community Connections45:15 Leveraging AI for Program Development48:13 The Value of Pro Bono Work50:56 Reflections on the Program's Impact57:11 Future Opportunities and Collaborations _____________________________ Never miss an episode by signing up to our mailing list: https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/ Continue the conversation - Join the community! Whatsapp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/HLEWkFImuk60UQO2JA8HpA  More deep dives into coaching at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEK9UENWT66D6uqPJhCznXNhc9Ba9jite Short episodes of Talking about Coaching addressing specific questions: https://www.youtube.com/talkingaboutcoaching  You can also find us on all major podcast platforms. If you'd like to support the Podcast, please consider a positive review, leave a comment or tell a friend or colleague about this episode. And did you know that you can see COACHING DEMOS from many of our podcast guests as part of Yannick's Coaching Lab. In the Lab you’re a “fly on the wall” for a 45min live coaching demo followed by Q&A and conversations with the coach and client and (optional) experimental breakouts in triads. Members of the Lab can re-watch recordings of sessions they’ve missed and VIP Members have access to the entire Vault of available coaching demos: - Become a member: https://gocoachinglab.com/ - Check out upcoming Labs: https://bit.ly/FutureCoachingLabs - 3 FREE taster sessions available via https://rocketsupervision.com/coaching-lab-coaching-sessions/  Thanks for being a coach. You're making the world a better place! Support the show

    1h 4m

  2. May 28

    AI in coaching - An update - Episode 99

    We’ve had several questions around how coaches use Artificial Intelligence (AI) in coaching, may that be to grow your business, as part of the coaching, or to improve your coaching skills. Building on our previous two episodes on AI, this episode offers an update with regards to how coaches can utilize AI. We’re signposting to a few custom GPTs we’re using, prompt advise, and highlight both the value and the risks of using AI in coaching.  See also:  Episode 91 - How can I use AI to be a better coach? (Part II) Episode 89 - How can I use AI to be a better coach? (Part I)____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2c Support the show

    46 min

  3. May 14

    How to navigate the leadership paradox in coaching? - Episode 98

    Experienced coaches know this: The more leadership we exhibit in coaching consultations, the easier it is to sign up clients, but the harder it is to then work with them “in partnership”, because we set up the relationship with certain expectations. But if we start with co-creating each part of the coaching relationship from the start, we lack the kind of certainty and confidence that helps clients to say yes to coaching with ease. This is what we may refer to as “the leadership paradox in coaching”, and today the Talking about Coaching Podcast hosts Yannick and Siwash are discussing how to navigate this challenge and strike the right balance.  ____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2c Support the show

    16 min

  4. Apr 30

    Is the coaching market saturated? - Episode 97

    We hear this from a lot of coaches in recent times: There are too many coaches out there! It’s getting increasingly difficult to reach potential clients amidst the sheer number of coaches trying to keep their businesses afloat. In this conversation, Yannick and Siwash share their perspective on why coaching as an industry can’t be saturated due to existing demands, discuss a solution to the problem of “saturation”, explain why it’s so important to pay attention to your personal narratives, and how marketing and branding are intricately linked to a successful coaching business. At the end you may just feel hopeful about the future of coaching, your business, and the world.  ____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2c Support the show

    12 min

  5. Jan 15

    Exploring the past - is that still coaching? - Episode 96

    In this episode of "Talking about Coaching" Yannick, Siawash, and Nicki delve into the intriguing intersection of coaching and therapy. They discuss the importance of understanding one's past to enhance present and future coaching outcomes. The conversation explores how coaches can navigate the delicate balance between exploring past experiences and maintaining a forward-focused approach. Tune in to discover insightful perspectives on how past narratives shape our present actions and future aspirations. Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction to Coaching and TherapyYannick introduces the topic of coaching and its distinction from therapy, setting the stage for a discussion on exploring the past within coaching sessions.00:01:58 - The Role of Past ExperiencesYannick and Siwash discuss the importance of understanding past experiences to enhance present coaching outcomes, emphasizing that exploring the past is not about dwelling but understanding current behaviors.00:03:58 - Patterns and Limiting BeliefsSiwash shares insights on how exploring past patterns and limiting beliefs can be beneficial in coaching, using personal anecdotes to illustrate the impact of past experiences on present actions.00:06:15 - Balancing Coaching and TherapyNicki and Yannick explore the fine line between coaching and therapy, discussing when exploring the past might cross into therapeutic territory and how coaches can maintain a forward-focused approach.00:08:30 - Techniques for Effective CoachingThe conversation shifts to practical techniques for coaches to connect past experiences with future goals, ensuring that sessions remain productive and goal-oriented.00:10:30 - Conclusion and ReflectionsThe episode wraps up with reflections on the discussion, encouraging listeners to engage with the content and share their experiences to foster learning and growth in the coaching community.Takeaways:  Understanding past experiences can enhance coaching outcomes. Coaching focuses on the future, while therapy often explores the past. Exploring past narratives helps in understanding current behaviors. - Coaches should balance between past exploration and future focus. Past experiences can be a catalyst for future growth. Coaching and therapy have distinct but overlapping roles. Awareness of past patterns can aid in personal development. Coaches need to be sensitive to when past exploration becomes therapeutic. Exploring the past can provide resources for future challenges. Coaching can maintain a forward-thinking approach while exploring the past.Keywords: coaching, therapy, past experiences, future goals, personal development, coaching techniques, exploring the past, coaching vs therapy, limiting beliefs, personal growth ____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2cSupport the show

    1 min

  6. Jan 1

    Recording my coaching sessions? Benefits & Pitfalls - Episode 95

    In this episode, Yannick Jacob, Siwash, and Nicki dive into the evolving landscape of coaching in the digital age. They explore the benefits and challenges of recording coaching sessions, particularly with the integration of AI. The discussion covers ethical considerations, client comfort, and the potential for AI to enhance coaching practices. Tune in to discover how technology is reshaping the coaching experience and what it means for both coaches and clients. Chapters 00:00:00 - Introduction to the EpisodeYannick introduces the topic of recording coaching sessions and the role of AI in modern coaching practices.00:01:46 - Benefits of Recording SessionsThe team discusses how recording sessions can provide valuable insights and help clients revisit their progress.00:06:47 - Ethical Considerations and Client ComfortA deep dive into the ethical implications of recording sessions and ensuring client comfort and consent.00:11:20 - AI's Role in CoachingExploring how AI can assist in summarizing sessions and providing feedback, while maintaining client confidentiality.00:16:30 - Balancing Technology and Human ConnectionThe conversation shifts to finding the right balance between leveraging technology and maintaining the human element in coaching.00:21:00 - Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe episode wraps up with reflections on the future of coaching in a tech-driven world and the importance of ethical practices.Takeaways:  Recording sessions can provide valuable insights for both coaches and clients. AI can assist in summarizing sessions and providing feedback. Ethical considerations are crucial when recording sessions. Client comfort and consent are paramount in the recording process. Technology should enhance, not replace, the human element in coaching. AI can help maintain client confidentiality while offering insights.Balancing technology and human connection is key in modern coaching. Recording sessions can help clients revisit their progress. Coaches should be transparent about how recordings are used. The future of coaching involves integrating technology responsibly.Keywords: coaching, AI in coaching, recording sessions, client comfort, ethical considerations, technology in coaching, coaching practices, digital age, human connection, coaching insights ____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2cSupport the show

    27 min

  7. 12/18/2025

    Pre-designed coaching programmes - friend or foe? - Episode 94

    A few coaches recently have brought questions about set coaching programmes into the supervision room. Marketing-wise, set programmes are an excellent way to instill certainty and trust in your coaching, by selling the idea that a “proven method” or relied upon series of exercises, assessments, or lines of inquiry are going to create a particular outcome within a certain timeframe. Now every serious coach knows that in reality, those kind of journeys at best are opening doors into the conversations that really matter, and at worst are a complete distraction from having those conversations. And yes, sometimes, when we pick the right client for our programme, they absolutely deliver. But it means we’re keeping to a tight niche. There is some value in guided journeys, for sure, though also definitely a number of pitfalls. So today we are digging into some of the pros and cons of set coaching programmes.  ____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2cSupport the show

    17 min

  8. 12/04/2025

    My [_____] died. When & how can I start coaching again? - Episode 93

    Yannick and Nicki have been facing some significant loss in their recent past and in this episode decided to discuss their journey of getting back into coaching clients. Grief and bereavement are experienced on a spectrum and everyone is ultimately navigating their own journey, but questions such as “When is it appropriate to see clients again?”, “Do I disclose what happened to my clients?”, “How do I stay focused on my client’s issues?”, or “To what extent do I need to have processed my own loss before I can work with clients efficiently?” are certainly questions that many coaches are asking themselves after facing significant challenges.  Takeaways Grief is a universal experience that can deeply impact personal and professional life.Self-disclosure in coaching can create deeper connections and open meaningful conversations.Personal experiences of loss can enrich coaching practices by adding depth and empathy.Existential reflections on grief can lead to personal growth and resilience.Opening conversations about grief can help normalize the experience and support others in their journeys.Chapters Introduction and Context (00:00 - 02:30)Personal Experiences with Grief (02:31 - 08:45)Grief and Coaching (08:46 - 18:20)Existential Reflections (18:21 - 28:10)Concluding Thoughts (28:11 - End)Keywords Grief, Coaching, Self-disclosure, Existentialism, Personal growth, Emotional resilience, Human connection, Loss, Reflection, Authenticity____ If you'd like to stay up to date with new episodes, continue the conversation or generally support what we do:  Send us your question: http://bit.ly/talkingaboutcoachingSign up to our mailing list (no spam, no sales, just a quick shout about new episodes): https://rocketsupervision.com/talking-about-coaching/Watch us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG2cSupport the show Support the show

    43 min
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Ratings & Reviews

3.5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Does what it says on the tin: We talk about coaching. We, that is Yannick, Siwash and Nicki. We love coaching, collectively got a tonne of experience, knowledge and charm; and we all felt it was time to give something back to our wonderful coaching community. Whether you're a life coach, work with organisations or practice any other form of coaching, you can ask us anything and we'll discuss it for and with you so you can learn, grow and develop your practice and business skills!

Information

  • Creator
    Yannick Jacob, Siwash Zahmat & Nicki Drab
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    115
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Talking about Coaching
  • Show Website
    Talking about Coaching

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