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Practically Coaching

Practically Coaching

By: Leadership Coaching Collective
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Summary

We’re Alex Carleton and Melissa Bloom, two coaches who’ve worked with hundreds of leaders and know that leadership starts with being human. In a world full of leadership books and AI advice, there’s something uniquely powerful and irreplaceable about working with a live coach who really sees you. We dig into what coaching is (and isn’t), how it can help leaders grow, and why a human-centered approach makes all the difference. Along the way, we share stories, insights, and simple techniques you can try out in your own life.Leadership Coaching Collective Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Finding clarity amid uncertainty
    May 12 2026

    Today’s discussion focuses on complexity. In comparison to the other aspects of VUCA, complexity often stems from too much information rather than too little. You and your team may find it difficult to parse the information and identify cause-and effect-relationships.


    The key is to focus on the things you do know.


    We discuss prioritizing transparent and consistent communication that can help you and other leaders mine the knowledge that exists within your organization. We offer strategies to foster clear and concise communication, create alignment, and encourage collaboration to help your teams work effectively through unpredictable situations.


    We wrap-up with box breathing – a simple technique you can use to bring balance to your thoughts and energy. Whether you’re feeling tired or abuzz, box breathing can help you find an even keel.


    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding Complexity in VUCA

    02:53 Navigating Complexity with Clarity

    06:10 The Importance of Communication

    09:07 Reinforcing Vision and Purpose

    12:02 Creating Psychological Safety

    15:11 Bringing Balance to your Leadership with Box Breathing


    Get In Touch

    We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com.


    Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

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    20 mins
  • Meeting uncertainty with understanding
    Apr 28 2026

    As we continue to work through the VUCA framework, this episode focuses on uncertainty. When things are uncertain, we can react by searching for more data, more specific details, more information to help us navigate the situation.


    But leaders have a choice.


    Rather than operate in a silo, leaders can instead foster open dialogue and draw others into the conversation. One of the best ways to address uncertainty is to build understanding.


    Join us for a discussion of practical strategies for leading through VUCA times, including: the importance of a well-placed pause, engaging others in the discussion, and fostering collective understanding to enable decision making. We conclude with a grounding exercise you can do at your desk to help tamp down the frenetic energy of uncertainty.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership

    03:08 Understanding the Impact of Unpredictability

    06:11 Building Collective Understanding

    09:09 Fostering Open Communication

    11:52 Creating a Shared Experience

    14:39 Finding Grounding Objects in Uncertainty

    17:49 The Power of the Pause

    21:23 Embracing Human Leadership


    Get In Touch

    We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com.


    Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

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    22 mins
  • Leading in volatility: V in VUCA
    Apr 14 2026

    In this episode, we talk about leading through volatility. Volatile situations are characterized by speed and force. When a change seems to come out of nowhere, the impact can feel outsized for leaders, their teams, and their organizations.


    Alex and I explore ways to foster both focus and flexibility to successfully navigate the way forward. We discuss how re-focusing on purpose, adjusting timeframes, and aligning people around near-term objectives lays a foundation for adapting to volatile conditions. We also present practical techniques, including breathing exercises, to help leaders stay grounded and effective during turbulent times.


    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding VUCA and Volatility

    04:35 The Importance of Purpose in Volatile Times

    11:50 Strategies for Navigating Volatility

    15:33 Breathing Techniques for Leaders

    17:55 Engagement and Reflection in Leadership


    Get In Touch

    We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com.


    Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
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