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Hosted by best-selling author, speaker and performance coach Brett Bartholomew, the Art of Coaching Podcast is a weekly show aimed at getting to the core of what it takes to change attitudes & behaviors in the weight-room, boardroom and everywhere in between.
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
We’ve all been hit by it.
It seemingly comes out of nowhere—a misunderstanding or argument we never saw coming. One moment you’re having a discussion, the next you're blindsided by resistance, vitriol, or passive-aggressive blowback. Where did it come from? Why did something small suddenly feel so personal?
Here’s the truth: it’s rarely about the thing—it’s about what the thing represents. Control. Trust. Identity. Relevance. Fear. A loss of autonomy. There’s always something else simmering under the surface. And if you want to be effective in high-stakes conversations or high-pressure environments, you have to be able to read those underlying signals, not just bulldoze with logic.
In this episode Brett unpacks exactly how to do that and covers:
- How to diagnose the real reason behind someone’s resistance
- Why linking your message to their character is more effective than chasing compliance
- How to foster autonomy by making it feel like their idea
- Why perception, not logic, is the real engine of influence and leadership
- What drives people to defend their identity and internal narrative at all costs
🎯 This episode dives deep into what drives behavior, yours and theirs. Take our free quiz at artofcoaching.com/whatdrivesyou to uncover what really makes people tick.
Folsom Brand Builder
Are you a coach, entrepreneur, or speaker who wants to turn your expertise into something that actually pays the bills? Whether you’ve never made a dollar or just brought in your first million, Brand Builder is for you! Spend two interactive days in Folsom, CA, getting crystal clear on your messaging, attracting the right clients, and building a business that scales.
You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a framework that lets you do what you love—on your terms.
📍Folsom, CA – August 8-9
To register or get more details, visit: artofcoaching.com/brand-builder-25
Private Growth Retreat
Stuck? Burnt out? Just need space to think? Come spend a day or two at AOC HQ with Brett for a private retreat built entirely around you. Strategy sessions, time outside, good food, and honest conversation—plus maybe a lift in the garage gym.
This is where you quiet the noise, organize the chaos, map your next move, and leave with clarity and confidence.
Email info@artofcoaching.com and let us know you're interested in a private retreat and we’ll work out a date.
Writer’s Workshop – Put Pen to Paper
Want to write a book but don’t know where to start? Brett self-published Conscious Coaching—and now he’s working with one of the world’s biggest publishers for his next one. Either one-on-one or in a small-group, he’ll share what worked, a whole lot of what didn’t, and how you can overcome the grind that writing can be, outline your ideas into a well-crafted message, and get it into the hands of those who need it most.
Email info@artofcoaching.com mention the Writer’s Workshop you heard about on the podcast and let’s start filling the page!
Related Episodes:
E202 | Why Facts and Logic Don't Change Our Minds
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Monday Apr 14, 2025
Why is talking about money so hard?
An even better question might be: why do so many job postings treat compensation like a state secret—vague, unclear, or completely absent?
The truth is, people want to know they’ll be respected and valued. If you leave them guessing, they’ll start looking elsewhere.
In Part 1 of this hiring series, we covered how to attract the right candidates. In Part 2, we dug into asking the right questions during interviews. In Part 3, we’re focusing entirely on compensation, because how you talk about pay tells a story about how you value people.
In this episode, Brett breaks down:
- The 3 most common ways companies list compensation—and how to determine which is right for you
- How to shift people away from obsessing over base salary and toward the bigger picture of total value
- Creative ways to incentivize your team without blowing up your budget
- How to foster loyalty and stop roles from becoming revolving doors
If you need further assistance with this topic or anything else involving your business, visit artofcoaching.com/mentor, we’d love to help.
Folsom Brand Builder
Are you a coach, entrepreneur, or speaker who wants to turn your expertise into something that actually pays the bills? Whether you’ve never made a dollar or just brought in your first million, Brand Builder is for you! Spend two interactive days in Folsom, CA, getting crystal clear on your messaging, attracting the right clients, and building a business that scales.
You’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a framework that lets you do what you love—on your terms.
📍Folsom, CA – August 8-9
To register or get more details, visit: artofcoaching.com/brand-builder-25
Private Growth Retreat
Stuck? Burnt out? Just need space to think? Come spend a day or two at AOC HQ with Brett for a private retreat built entirely around you. Strategy sessions, time outside, good food, and honest conversation—plus maybe a lift in the garage gym.
This is where you quiet the noise, organize the chaos, map your next move, and leave with clarity and confidence.
Email info@artofcoaching.com and let us know you're interested in a private retreat and we’ll work out a date.
Writer’s Workshop – Put Pen to Paper
Want to write a book but don’t know where to start? Brett self-published Conscious Coaching—and now he’s working with one of the world’s biggest publishers for his next one. Either one-on-one or in a small-group, he’ll share what worked, a whole lot of what didn’t, and how you can overcome the grind that writing can be, outline your ideas into a well-crafted message, and get it into the hands of those who need it most.
Email info@artofcoaching.com mention the Writer’s Workshop you heard about on the podcast and let’s start filling the page!
Related Episodes:
E371 | Hiring Tips Pt 1: How to Attract the Right People
E372 | Hiring Tips Pt 2: Asking the Right Interview Questions
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Monday Apr 07, 2025
Most interviews miss the mark.
Predictable questions. Rehearsed answers. And when it’s over, you still haven’t figured out who the person really is.
In Part 1 of this series, we covered what matters most when it comes to attracting the right candidates. Today is about what happens next. How do you actually assess whether someone can solve the real problems you are hiring them to tackle or if they’re the right fit?
The truth is, most people can talk a good game and tell you what you’d like to hear. But when the lights come on and things get messy, can they think on their feet? Can they take initiative? Can they adapt when the environment or expectations change?
In this episode, Brett walks you through how to run interviews that actually reveal who someone is, not just who they pretend to be, and breaks down:
- A smarter way to structure interviews using the DEEP framework
- How a simple role clarity doc keeps you from hiring the wrong person
- Questions that expose if someone can solve real problems or just talk well
- The 4 dimensions every candidate must show before you even consider hiring them
- How real world tasks and off-script moments reveal who someone really is
Upcoming Live Events!
Everyone wants to lead better, grow their business, and communicate with confidence… until it’s time to actually do it in the room, with real people and real pressure.
We’re not here to sell you fluff or copy-pasted psychology theory.
We give you real reps, real coaching, and straight talk—so you’re prepared when it actually counts.
We’re here to help you show up for life’s most important opportunities—whether that’s a tough conversation, a high-stakes presentation, or leading when things get messy.
Over the next few months, we’re hitting the road and you’ve got options:
📍 Phoenix, AZ – April 26-27 (Speaker School)
📍 Charlestown, MA – May 17-18 (The Apprenticeship)
📍 Phoenix, AZ – June 7-8 (The Apprenticeship)
Spots are limited and they go fast.
🎯 Get the full list and lock in your seat at artofcoaching.com/events
Everyone Needs a Coach.
Most people would agree, but what does that actually look like in real life?
It’s not about having a cheerleader or someone feeding you vague advice from a script. It’s about having someone in your corner who’s been through it, sees what you can’t, and isn’t afraid to call it like it is.
That’s what we do. We’re your shadow advisor.
A real, human sounding board who challenges your thinking, uncovers blind spots, and helps you make sharper decisions whether you’re leading a team, building a business, or navigating high pressure conversations.
If you’re serious about growth and want a coach who won’t coddle you
🔗 artofcoaching.com/mentoring
Who doesn’t love a good book recommendation?
If you’re anything like us, you’re always looking for that next title that’ll challenge your thinking, spark an idea, or just hit you at the right time.
We put together a list of our team’s favorite reads across business, leadership, human behavior, psychology, philosophy, fiction, finance, and more. It’s well rounded, real-world tested, and no, it’s not filled with the same five books everyone else is posting about online.
Want a FREE PDF? Yes, free. No catch.
📚 Grab it now at artofcoaching.com/readinglist
Related Episodes:
E371 | Hiring Tips Pt 1: How to Attract the Right People
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Monday Mar 31, 2025
Hiring the right people doesn’t start with the interview — it starts with the job posting.
In this first episode of our hiring series, we tackle a question we hear all the time from mentoring clients: How do I find better candidates?
Whether you’re a business owner, a team leader involved in hiring, or even someone applying for jobs, this one’s for you.
We break down a simple but effective framework to help you diagnose and improve your hiring process from the ground up. This isn’t theory or a fluffy LinkedIn post, just real talk and practical tools you can apply right away.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- A breakdown of the HITS framework and how it can instantly level up your job postings
- Why generic, vague titles are quietly killing your candidate pool
- What a structured, efficient hiring process looks like, and why speed and clarity matter
- Why expressing your team’s true culture upfront helps attract the right fit (and repel the wrong ones)
- Bonus: Talking salary in your job posting — the only 3 ways to do it, and the pros and cons of each
This week’s episode comes straight from a recurring theme we hear in our work with mentoring clients. Got a question you’d like us to address on the podcast? Let us know — remember, unstated needs lead to unmet expectations. We want to keep creating content that shows up in your life when it matters most. Drop us an email at info@artofcoaching.com.
Need a Coach Who Challenges You?
Even the best leaders need a coach—but too often, they’re too busy to seek one out. That’s where we come in. Think of us as your shadow advisor—a real, human sounding board who challenges your thinking, offers a fresh perspective, and isn’t afraid to be your devil’s advocate. We help uncover blind spots and push you toward better decisions, whether you’re running a small business, leading a pro sports team, or making moves in a Fortune 500 company.
If you’re serious about growth, let’s talk. artofcoaching.com/mentoring.
Real-World Leadership Training for Teams That Can’t Afford to Guess
This is now our most requested service. From NFL teams to Apple and Canadian Special Forces, organizations are bringing us in to help their people lead, communicate, and perform under pressure. Our tailored workshops deliver tools you can use immediately to manage emotions, reduce drama, and build a stronger culture. Schedules are filling fast — reach out now to lock in your spot. Email us at info@artofcoaching.com or visit artofcoaching.com.
Related Episodes:
E99 | Steven Moser: Getting the Job and Nailing Your Interview
E182 | Crucial Tips For Improving Your Hiring Proces
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Mar 24, 2025
Monday Mar 24, 2025
You feel it, right? That tension thick enough to slice, the elephant in the room no one dares mention. But sooner or later, it has to be dealt with.
Most people think resolving conflict demands complex processes. In reality, the solution usually boils down to simply hashing it out. Yet, when friction arises, we often overcomplicate things or avoid them altogether, escalating drama.
It's time to step up and initiate tough conversations. Brace yourself. Some people will resist. Some simply lack the emotional tools to process these interactions. Others you’ll never fully reconcile with, but we can NEVER afford to be escapists, personally or professionally. Even when doing the right thing doesn’t guarantee success, clear communication and accountability are essential.
Today's episode hits like the perfect song for the moment. Right on time, and rhythm on point. This is the sit-down talk, crucial and overdue, that we, and our society as a whole, needs to hear.
Tune in as Brett dives into these key insights, breaking down how they relate directly to his experiences, and yours:
- Navigate uncomfortable first steps with proven scripts.
- Anticipate resistance and pivot when faced with avoidance.
- Utilize mediation and lateral tactics when standard approaches stall.
- Detach from emotional reactions, document clearly, and protect yourself
- The BALM framework for clear and confident communication in the worst situations
This episode was inspired by the powerful response to our latest newsletter. We dive even deeper into topics like culture change, navigating tough conversations, and handling drama effectively. Sign up today for free—no spam, just actionable, real-world value delivered straight to your inbox: artofcoaching.com/begin.
Need a Coach Who Challenges You?
Even the best leaders need a coach—but too often, they’re too busy to seek one out. That’s where we come in. Think of us as your shadow advisor—a real, human sounding board who challenges your thinking, offers a fresh perspective, and isn’t afraid to be your devil’s advocate. We help uncover blind spots and push you toward better decisions, whether you’re running a small business, leading a pro sports team, or making moves in a Fortune 500 company.
If you’re serious about growth, let’s talk. artofcoaching.com/mentoring.
Send Us Your Staff!
Tackle leadership challenges with tailored workshops trusted by Apple, NFL teams, and Canadian Special Forces. Gain actionable tools for managing emotions, de-escalating tension, and rebuilding culture. Email us at info@artofcoaching.com to learn more, and visit artofcoaching.com to see how we can help.
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Mar 17, 2025
Monday Mar 17, 2025
You hear about it all the time. A team goes from the bottom of the league to championship contenders. A failing company suddenly becomes the industry gold standard.
The media calls it a “culture shift,” but let’s be real, culture doesn’t change overnight. It erodes over time when bad habits go unchecked, just like it improves through intentional action. The problem? Most people don’t have the stomach for what it really takes to make that shift happen.
Changing culture isn’t about slogans, feel-good retreats, or corporate trust falls. It’s about confronting hard truths, cutting through excuses, and being willing to fight the battles no one else will. If you think you can just throw a motivational speech at the problem and watch everything transform, you’re in for a rude awakening.
In today’s episode, we break down exactly what it takes to rewrite the DNA of an organization—without the fluff, the gimmicks, or the hand-holding.
In today’s episode, Brett dives into:
- What culture actually is and how to clarify the outcome you’re after
- How to diagnose the root cause of a toxic culture—not just slap a band-aid on the symptoms
- The exact questions we use to pinpoint the real issues when consulting with teams
- The dangerous consequences of avoidance and the illusion of “false harmony”
- Practical, process-driven steps you can take right now—no matter your position in the hierarchy
Got a question or a topic you’d like us to cover? If this episode resonated with you, let us know at artofcoaching.com/question. We also dive even deeper into culture change and other tough topics in our newsletter—no spam, just real, actionable value. Sign up today at artofcoaching.com/begin.
Need a Coach Who Challenges You?
Even the best leaders need a coach—but too often, they’re too busy to seek one out. That’s where we come in. Think of us as your shadow advisor—a real, human sounding board who challenges your thinking, offers a fresh perspective, and isn’t afraid to be your devil’s advocate. We help uncover blind spots and push you toward better decisions, whether you’re running a small business, leading a pro sports team, or making moves in a Fortune 500 company.
If you’re serious about growth, let’s talk. artofcoaching.com/mentoring.
Master the Skill No One Thinks About, But Everyone Needs
No one wakes up thinking, I need to improve my communication. But we all want less drama, more productivity, and to stop wasting time. The key? Sharpening how you communicate.
Think of it like a martial art—you’ll never perfect it, but the better you get, the more powerful you become. That’s why we created The Apprenticeship—a hands-on, no-fluff training to help you navigate conflict, influence others, and lead with impact.
📍 Charlestown, MA – May 17-18
📍 Phoenix, AZ – June 7-8
Put in the reps. artofcoaching.com/apprenticeship.
Related Episodes:
E278: Victor Hall: Quiet Influence - How to Impact Others As An Introvert
E359: Why You Need To Own Your Sh** To Be A Better Leader
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Monday Mar 10, 2025
Most people focus on the big moments when preparing for a speech, but true professionals know it’s the small, overlooked details that make all the difference.
In this episode, Brett answers one of the most common questions he gets: “What’s your process for preparing to give a keynote or in-service?”
Pulling from hard-earned experience over the past decade, he walks through the non-negotiables and need-to-knows before stepping onto any stage - whether it's a small local event, a professional sports team in-service, or a Fortune 500 leadership summit.
Whether you’re a veteran of the stage or preparing for your first time on the mic, this episode serves as a checklist for the extra steps that place you in the upper echelon.
In this episode, Brett lays out exactly what you need to craft an impactful presentation and leave a lasting impression. You’ll learn:
- How to research the stakeholders and uncover the one key question you must answer
- The critical logistical details—room setup, tech capabilities, and flow—that can’t be overlooked
- Why small gestures of appreciation, like handwritten notes or gifts, strengthen your relationship with the host
- How to adapt your content to fit the audience so your message truly resonates
- How to use your talk as a conduit to connect ideas, open doors, and solidify your place in the fraternity of respected speakers
SPEAKER SCHOOL – Regret is Expensive. Step Up Now!
The best speakers don’t just talk—they adapt. Yet too many talented people hesitate, watching fakers and charlatans steal the spotlight. The last thing you want is to lay your head on your pillow at night, wishing you had shared your message with the world.
Speaker School is for leaders, coaches, and professionals who refuse to let fear or doubt hold them back. This two-day workshop gives you the reps, feedback, and coaching you need to own the room—whether that’s a boardroom, a locker room, or a stage.
Our next Speaker School is April 26-27, with another in October. We keep the number of attendees low to make sure you get the focus and attention you deserve. Click here to lock in your spot - before someone else takes the stage from you.
Related Episodes:
E295: Public Speaking Tips Part 1: How Much Content Is Enough When Presenting
E297: Public Speaking Tips Part 2: The Ultimate Keynote Preparation Checklist
E298: Public Speaking Tips Part 3: Using Strategic Storytelling To Create A Compelling Message
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
In a world where AI is becoming part of everything we do, the big question isn’t if you should use it—it’s how you should use it. Are you using AI to sharpen your thinking and free up mental bandwidth? Or is it slowly making you more dependent, less strategic, and mentally lazy without you realizing it?
In this episode, I break down:
✅ How high performers and busy people use AI to enhance their thinking—not replace it
✅ Ways AI can help you improve clarity, strategy, and execution—if used correctly
✅ The red flags that AI is making you weaker, not sharper
✅ How to offload mental overwhelm without losing cognitive strength
✅ Real-life examples of how I use AI in my business, content creation, and decision-making
The goal isn’t to resist AI—it’s to make sure you’re using it as a tool that enhances your skills instead of slowly eroding them. Tune in to learn how to stay sharp, adaptable, and in control while leveraging AI the right way.
SPEAKER SCHOOL- The best speakers don’t just talk—they adapt. Speaker School is for leaders, coaches, and professionals who want to deliver with clarity, confidence, and impact in any setting.
This two-day workshop gives you the reps, feedback, and coaching you need to own the room—whether that’s a boardroom, a locker room, or a stage.
Our next Speaker School is April 26-27, with another in October. We keep the number of attendees low to make sure you get the focus and attention you deserve. Click here to lock in your spot!
LIVE EVENTS- The best don’t train alone. If you want to lead, communicate, and perform under pressure, you need reps. Our live events force adaptation in real time so you build confidence and skill where it matters most.
Check out The Apprenticeship, Speaker School, and more at artofcoaching.com/events.
1-ON-1 MENTORING- Tough conversations, career shifts, building credibility—you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our one-on-one mentoring is customized to your situation, helping you strategize, communicate, and make real progress.
Skip the fluff. Get direct, experience-driven coaching that meets you where you are. Apply now at artofcoaching.com/mentoring.
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
We all wear different hats throughout the day. One minute, you’re locked in at work, making quick decisions under pressure. Next, you’re at home, where that same intensity doesn’t fly. Maybe you’re presenting to a boardroom in the morning and coaching your kid’s team in the evening. Each situation demands a different approach. If you don’t adjust, you misfire.
The ability to shift gears seamlessly, whether in leadership, relationships, or daily interactions isn't just communication, it’s a survival skill. Code switching is what allows you to maintain credibility, control perception, and navigate high-stakes situations effectively. Yet many struggle with it, staying locked into one mode, bringing the wrong energy into conversations, or feeling like adapting means being “fake.”
So how do you get better at code-switching without losing authenticity? How do you manage the cognitive load of shifting roles, control your tone and presence, and ensure that every interaction hits the mark? That’s exactly what we’re breaking down in this episode.
Listen in as Brett breaks down this misunderstood skill and shares practical strategies to help you switch gears with confidence, plus other key insights, including:
- The difference between code-switching and contextual competence and why it matters
- How to recognize your default mode and when it helps or holds you back
- Rituals that help you reset and shift gears between roles
- Scripts to help prompt others into their best selves in the moment
THE APPRENTICESHIP- If today's episode hit home, you already know that reading about code-switching isn’t enough—you need reps. That’s exactly what we give you at The Apprenticeship. This isn’t a passive lecture or a cookie-cutter leadership seminar. You’ll be on your feet, in the mix, and under pressure, practicing the art of communication in real-world scenarios.
Whether you struggle with tough conversations, handling objections, or shifting your message to fit the moment, this event will challenge you, stretch you, and make you better. No gimmicks. No fluff. Just high-stakes practice in a safe but demanding environment.
Join us for our next one in Phoenix, AZ, on June 7-8. Click here to learn more and secure your spot today! *Early Bird Pricing Until May 7th
SPEAKER SCHOOL- The best speakers don’t just talk—they adapt. Speaker School is for leaders, coaches, and professionals who want to deliver with clarity, confidence, and impact in any setting.
This two-day workshop gives you the reps, feedback, and coaching you need to own the room—whether that’s a boardroom, a locker room, or a stage.
Our next Speaker School is April 26-27, with another in October. We keep the number of attendees low to make sure you get the focus and attention you deserve. Click here to lock in your spot!
LIVE EVENTS- The best don’t train alone. If you want to lead, communicate, and perform under pressure, you need reps. Our live events force adaptation in real time so you build confidence and skill where it matters most.
Check out The Apprenticeship, Speaker School, and more at artofcoaching.com/events.
1-ON-1 MENTORING- Tough conversations, career shifts, building credibility—you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our one-on-one mentoring is customized to your situation, helping you strategize, communicate, and make real progress.
Skip the fluff. Get direct, experience-driven coaching that meets you where you are. Apply now at artofcoaching.com/mentoring.
Referenced Episode:
E190 | Why It Seems Like We Never Have Enough Time
Related Episodes:
E344: Tips For “Balancing” Work and Family Life
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
You can’t make this stuff up.
Every time you finally sit down to tackle the project you know needs to get done, something gets in the way. You get sick. A family member needs help. You lose your job or suffer a major professional setback. And let’s be honest, sometimes the biggest obstacle…is you. The crazier or more unpredictable the distraction, the more likely it seems to happen.
So how do we stop getting knocked off course? How do we sidestep the constant barrage of setbacks, gather ourselves, and take that crucial first step forward? How do we keep chipping away at what we know we need to do—despite the world, other people, and the version of ourselves that would rather avoid the struggle?
In today’s episode, Brett shares his journey and the lessons we can all take from it. Whether you're writing a book, tackling a big professional project, or mending a broken relationship, there’s something here for everyone.
Tune in for insight into:
- Winning the battle against chronic overthinking and perfectionism
- The importance of the messy rough draft or painful first step
- Seizing momentum through brutal sprints
- How to use constraints to your advantage
- Determining what must be sacrificed to achieve your end goal
We’re excited to bring you TWO NEW EVENTS coming later this year!
Writer’s Workshop - Whether you’re crafting social media posts, blogs, or even your first book, writing doesn’t have to be a solitary, soul-sucking grind. Choose between personalized 1-on-1 coaching or join a small, live, two-day workshop (limited to 10 participants) where we’ll help take the pain out of penning and show you how to put your unique style onto the page.
Private Retreat at AOC HQ - Join us in Phoenix, AZ, for an exclusive two-day retreat tailored entirely to you. With personalized plans, access to our gym and pool, private suites, and the camaraderie of like-minded individuals, you’ll leave with clarity, focus, and renewed energy to crush your goals.
Don’t miss these opportunities. Email us at info@artofcoaching.com to learn more and secure your spot today!
Referenced Resource:
Drives Quiz - Stop letting setbacks control your progress and uncover what’s holding you back. And wait, did we mention it’s FREE!
Related Episodes:
E360 | The Key To Making Progress and Staying Consistent When Life Gets Hectic
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb