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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
26 minutes ago
26 minutes ago
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
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
DONE. You’ve finally finished the big project you’ve been agonizing over.
But as you prepare to hit send, print, submit - whatever - all you feel is doubt. Despite the preparation and time you’ve put in, you can’t help but think about all the ways this “finished product” isn’t good enough.
This is just one example of how perfectionism can manifest in our day-to-day lives; how it can hold us back, make us feel anxious - even depressed - and how it can keep us from making the type of progress we so desperately seek within our personal and professional lives.
Today we’re going to explore the topic of perfectionism in depth.
Tune in as we dive into:
- The various definitions and “symptoms” (8:40)
- It’s origins, including the 5 Factor Model of Personality (23:15)
- The difference between perfectionism and healthy striving (29:30)
- Non-traditional strategies for overcoming it (44:00)
📢 Last Call! Our next Speaker School is April 26-27, with another one on October 11-12. Email info@artofcoaching.com with the phrase "I listen" to get 10% off the date of your choice!
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.
Ever wonder what books we recommend on topics like leadership, communication, psychology, and beyond? Check out our curated reading list, which we get asked about just as much as today’s topic! Visit artofcoaching.com/readinglist to dive in and find your next great read.
If you’d like go go deeper on this and other related topics - here are some great previous episodes that pair nicely with this one:
Other Referenced Resources:
- Art of Coaching Podcast E187: Archetypes: What They Are, What They Aren’t, and How They Help Us Grow
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
We’ve all been there. Stuck, unmotivated, and unsure of what to do or where to go next. And just as we’ve struggled, we’ve also had to help others who can’t seem to move forward. Whether you’re a leader, manager, mentor, or just someone who wants to be more effective in tough conversations, knowing how to cut through resistance is a critical skill.
People don’t just fear failure, they fear success. Staying stuck, or just refusing to advance, feels safer than the prospect of higher expectations and the weight of added responsibility.
People are complicated, and it’s not as simple as offering advice or motivation. Different personalities bring different sources of resistance, and pushing too hard, or in the wrong way, can backfire.
So how do you actually help? How do you guide someone toward action without overwhelming them? In this episode, we break down the principles of managing these interactions so you can help them get out of their own way without getting stuck yourself.
In this practical episode, Brett covers:
- How to distill and discern why they feel stuck
- Scripts for open-ended questions that foster agency and self-discovery
- A framework for building a plan focused on securing the small wins first
- Tools to build and sustain momentum–and when to check in
- Why the victim mindset is so destructive and how to set boundaries to protect yourself
SPEAKER SCHOOL – Are you someone who struggles with social anxiety? How about pitching more effectively in meetings? Maybe you’re already on a speaker circuit but looking to sharpen your next message? Speaker School is built for you.
This two-day immersive workshop isn’t just another public speaking course. It’s a live training experience where you’ll get real reps and detailed feedback in a supportive environment with like-minded peers who have the same goal as you - to take a massive step forward.
Best of all, you’ll leave with proven tools and strategies to continue improving long after the event, so you’re not just better for a weekend, but for years to come.
📢 Last Call! Our next Speaker School is April 26-27, with another one on October 11-12. Email info@artofcoaching.com with the phrase "I listen" to get 10% off the date of your choice!
Don’t put this off any longer. Lock in your spot NOW!
READING LIST – Ever wonder what books we recommend on topics like leadership, communication, psychology, and beyond? Check out our curated reading list, which we get asked about just as much as today’s topic! Visit artofcoaching.com/readinglist to dive in and find your next great read.
Come check out The Apprenticeship – Join us for a hands-on workshop designed to enhance your leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills: Learn more here.
Book Brett as a speaker – Bring Brett to your organization for a powerful, customized keynote or in-service training: Request him here.
One-on-one mentoring – Work directly with our team to receive personalized coaching and actionable advice tailored to your goals: Apply here.
Referenced & Related Episodes:
E362: How To Quit Being a People Pleaser
E259: Understanding and Overcoming Perfectionism
E344: Tips For “Balancing” Work and Family Life
E269: How To Ask Better Questions
E353: What To Do If You Feel Like You’re Stagnating
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
This week, we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes, and a topic people continue to ask us about.
People pleasing. We’ve all seen it before (whether we recognized it or not) - constantly being agreeable, always saying yes, never setting any boundaries - all to the point of self-destruction. If you haven’t experienced it yourself, it’s likely you’ve witnessed someone else demonstrate these behaviors.
And although it may have short-term benefits, we know that these self-destructive tendencies are not sustainable, and can lead to mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion and burnout.
If this is something you think you might struggle with, or if you know someone who does, today’s episode provides a wide variety of perspectives on what “people pleasing” can look like in the day to day world, a number of root causes, and a handful of different solutions you can use to help you manage these behaviors.
More specifically, Brett dives into:
- Quotes that hit - some of the most impactful sound bites I’ve heard on the topic
- What drives you? How our drives can lead us into unhealthy people pleasing behaviors
- The downside to many of the mainstream self-help resources that address the topic
- The necessary self-reflection that has to take place before we can make long-lasting behavioral changes
Host your own AOC Inservice - 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.
AOC Private Mentoring Retreat - Join us in Phoenix for a two-day retreat focused on resetting and crushing your goals. With custom coaching, private suites, and access to exclusive facilities, this experience is built for you. Email info@artofcoaching.com to secure your spot!
Improv Only Workshop - Boost problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork through fun, interactive improv games. Trusted by Google and pro sports teams, this workshop delivers skills that stick. Email info@artofcoaching.com with "Improv Only Workshop" in the subject line.
Referenced Resources:
E210: Assertiveness: How To Ask For What You Want & Get What You Need
E207: How Perception Impacts Communication & Relationships
E208: Robert Greene: Mastering Human Nature and Facing Your Flaws
E200: What To Do When Trying To Help Makes Stuff Worse
E176: When Positive Thinking Doesn’t Work
E130: How Understanding Drives Helps Build Buy-In
Online Course: Valued - mentioned in today’s episode regarding opportunity cost, this life-time access course help you to identify your values and take control of your career
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
We’ve all been there, and watched it happen from afar.
Something happens, and the temperature starts to rise. Tempers flare, and the situation becomes heated. These moments can reveal sides of us we’re not particularly proud of.
How should we respond when life gets tense and others lack empathy or communicate in passive-aggressive ways? What actions can we take to navigate these difficult interactions without making things worse?
To move forward, we must find a way to counter our adrenaline, exude control, and convey compassion. Avoidance is never the answer. The only way out is through.
In today’s practical, real-world episode, Brett discusses:
- The #1 thing people ultimately want in conflict
- Conflict archetypes and the importance of knowing which one you are
- How and when to make concessions without “losing” or admitting fault
- Why taking a pause or a deep breath isn’t the most practical advice
- BONUS: A crash course in how to NOT piss people off
Want to host your own AOC Inservice?
As a leader, you’ve likely thought, “There’s got to be a better way to handle this.” That’s where we come in. We’ve helped organizations like Apple, Microsoft, NFL and MLS teams, and even the Canadian Special Forces tackle tough topics like managing culture and navigating messy internal dynamics.
Each inservice is tailored to the unique needs of your team. This isn’t a cookie-cutter, feel-good workshop. We deliver actionable tools to manage emotions, de-escalate tension, rebuild culture, and communicate more effectively - tools you can apply NOW.
Email us at info@artofcoaching.com to learn more, and visit artofcoaching.com to see how we can help.
Come spend two days with us at AOC HQ!
This year, we’re thrilled to open our doors in Phoenix, AZ, for an exclusive two-day retreat tailored entirely to you! With a personalized curriculum, 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 let this opportunity pass you by! Email us at info@artofcoaching.com to learn more and secure your spot today.
Improv Only Workshop
Work in a high-stakes environment that demands constant focus? If you or your team need to disconnect and have fun—while building skills like problem-solving, active listening, and creative thinking—this workshop is for you!
Top companies like Google and professional sports teams have hired US to run these workshops, using games inspired by Whose Line Is It Anyway? tailored to meet specific professional goals. They’ve seen tremendous value, and we’re confident you will too.
Interested? Email info@artofcoaching.com with "Improv Only Workshop" in the subject line for more details!
Related Episodes:
E310 | A Key Strategy For Avoiding Misunderstandings
E294 | Why Do I Freeze Up? How To Handle Stressful Situations Like A Pro
Follow Us:
Website: ArtofCoaching.com
Instagram: @coach_brettb