Episodes

Monday Jan 15, 2024
Monday Jan 15, 2024
If you’re a first time listener to the Art of Coaching podcast, it’s important for you to know that the focus of our work is to provide you with pragmatic solutions to real world problems; to have real conversations about the messy realities of life and leadership that often get swept under the rug; to avoid simply giving short term band aid solutions, and to equip you with the tools you need to address the root causes of the problems you’re working to overcome.
That’s why we are excited to bring the work of today’s guest - the psychology of distraction - directly to you. Nir Eyal is the author of two bestsellers. His first book, Hooked, is a Silicon Valley must-read and emerged from a class he taught at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He's just published a follow-up book, Indistractable, which is what we cover in our conversation today.
Indistractable was recently named one of the Best Business and Leadership Books of the Year, according to Amazon and one of the Best Personal Development Books of the Year by Audible. It also won the 2019 Outstanding Works of Literature (OWL) Award in the Big Idea category.
Because of the actionable frameworks and research-backed strategies for fighting distraction, we knew Nir’s work would provide monumental value to our ambitious audience. Specifically, Nir dives into:
- The difference between root cause and proximate cause and how this affects your productivity
- Different types of distraction and how to identify them
- 4 steps to becoming “indistractable”
- Examples on how to use these 4 steps in your personal and professional life
Nir’s Work:
Books: Indistractable & Hooked
Articles:
Free Tools:
Social Media Links:
Upcoming Apprenticeship Workshops:
The Apprenticeship - Become more socially agile with our live Leadership Training Workshop.
When we say “leadership training,” we are not referring to cheesy corny trust-falls, motivational speak, or anything of the sorts. We are talking about the things that people say they wish they would have known earlier in their career and life - how to navigate difficult people and conversations, power dynamics, negotiations, and implement change.
If you deal with people-problems at all, if you’re in a leadership position or want to be in a leadership role, if you want LESS DRAMA - you need to get to this event! Check out our entire 2024 live event schedule for the best date and location for you!
Today’s episode is brought to you by Betterhelp.
At some level, we all struggle with unexpected challenges in life. BetterHelp is an accessible, convenient, private, and affordable therapy option to help you look at your problems a little differently, feel less stressed, and gain confidence. Visit BetterHelp.com/AOC for 10% off your first month.

Monday Jan 08, 2024
E308 | How to Improve Sales Without Being Slimy
Monday Jan 08, 2024
Monday Jan 08, 2024
There are a lot of negative stereotypes surrounding “sales.” Everything from the “sleazy car salesman” to the “lifestyle lush” to the “credibility crackpot” - there’s no shortage of these! So it makes sense why so many of us have some level of discomfort when we think about selling something.
But the truth is that “sales” is an every-day part of our lives - whether it’s at work, at home, or in our social circles, selling is unavoidable.
So to help ease any insecurities you might have about the topic, and/or to help you become more purposeful in your sales approach and strategy, today’s episode covers the Do’s, Don’ts and Core Principles behind the sales process. Specifically,
- The essential information you need to tailor your message appropriately
- Why so many of us have insecurities about the idea of sales
- How to keep your messaging consistent and build trust with your audience
- Critical questions and considerations for your communication strategy
Referenced Resources:
Brand Builder (Entrepreneur Essentials Workshop)
Facilitator Course - Email us to find out more at info@artofcoaching.com
The Apprenticeship - our live Leadership and Communication Training Workshop. *Take advantage of early bird, military/ first responder, and group discounts!
When we say “leadership training,” we are not referring to cheesy corny trust-falls, motivational speak, or anything of the sorts. We are talking about the things that people say they wish they would have known earlier in their career and life - how to navigate difficult people and conversations, power dynamics, negotiations, and implement change.
If you deal with people-problems at all, if you’re in a leadership position or want to be in a leadership role, if you want LESS DRAMA - you need to get to this event! Check out our entire 2024 live event schedule for the best date and location for you!
Referenced Podcast Episodes:
E266: How To Find Your Voice & Get Out Of Your Head
E204: Amira Mansour: Starting Your Own Coaching Business & Managing The Voice In Your Head
E188: Ethan Kross: Chatter - The Voice In Our Head, Why It Matters, and How To Harness It
E112: Finding & Developing Your Leadership Voice
If there are other topics you’d like us to dive into in our podcast, please let us know! We want to hear from you and value your questions and feedback immensely! You can reach us directly at info@artofcoaching.com or submit your questions HERE.
Podcast Sponsors:
Moving into the new year, we are excited to announce our continued partnership with Momentous! Momentous is our oldest partner, but they are STILL improving their product. If you are looking for the best tasting and cleanest protein out there, look no further. Code: BRETT15 gets you 15% off your first order!

Monday Jan 01, 2024
E307 | Most Shared E117 | Impression Management in Leadership & Life
Monday Jan 01, 2024
Monday Jan 01, 2024
The brands we wear, the foods we eat, the people we associate with, the way we act in public… These are all ways we consciously (and often subconsciously) control others’ perception of us.
But we don’t have just one “authentic self” to portray. We are like actors playing many roles, in a constant state of flux depending on our context.
Awareness of this outward expression, or as we like to say, impression management, can help us understand how our public image is tied to our ability to reach desired goals.
On today’s episode we’ll discuss:
- The reasons for our curated self-presentation
- The 6 types we exhibit most and why they work
- How to refine our current impression management strategies
Join Our 1:1 or Group Mentoring Programs here
Follow us on social media:
Via Instagram: @coach_BrettB & @aocoaching
Via Twitter: @coach_BrettB
Subscribe to my YouTube channel and my newsletter
Learn More About My Courses, Clinics, and Live Events At: ArtofCoaching.com

Monday Dec 25, 2023
Monday Dec 25, 2023
If you’re like me, you often reflect on the things your parents, grandparents, or mentors have taught you.
But have you ever asked them what they’ve learned from you?
The answer may surprise you.
The life of Marsha Bartholomew has been no cakewalk. From the challenges she faced growing up with a no-nonsense family, to a young female professional in a male dominated work-force, to motherhood, and beyond - the lessons she’s learned along the way provide insight and value to people in every walk of life.
In today’s episode, my mom expands on her life experiences, including a 38 year career with the Social Security Administration. She speaks about:
- The leadership secret that AI will never be able to replace
- How she overcame challenges she faced as a woman in the workforce in the ‘70s
- The tactics she used to create an achievement driven culture in an extremely diverse department
- The best and worst advice she’s ever received
Referenced Resources:
A Note on your Continuing Education:
What does your continuing education look like? Whatever conferences you’re attending, articles or books you’re reading, or online courses you’re crawling through, ask yourself - are you truly getting the applied value you’re seeking? As we walk into 2024, please consider stepping away from the same old conferences and clinics you go to year after year, and give us a chance to provide you with value that positively impacts you both professionally AND personally!
Get Involved with the Art of Coaching Community:
The Apprenticeship - our live Leadership and Communication Training Workshop.
When we say “leadership training,” we are not referring to cheesy corny trust-falls, motivational speak, or anything of the sorts. We are talking about the things that people say they wish they would have known earlier in their career and life - how to navigate difficult people and conversations, power dynamics, negotiations, and implement change.
If you deal with people-problems at all, if you’re in a leadership position or want to be in a leadership role, if you want LESS DRAMA - you need to get to this event! Check out our entire 2024 live event schedule for the best date and location for you!
To check out our mentorship services, live events, and the other continuing education opportunities we offer at Art of Coaching, explore our website, or let us know what you’re looking for at info@artofcoaching.com. We are happy to help you find the best resources for your specific goals!

Monday Dec 18, 2023
Monday Dec 18, 2023
“What hills are you willing to die on?”
This probably isn’t the first time you’ve heard that question, but it’s one worth revisiting time and time again. Why? Because it’s a key factor in deciding when and how to communicate in sticky situations.
In today’s episode, our guest Missy Mitchell-McBeth shares what she has learned first hand about being authentic - and sometimes even “painfully honest” - throughout her 20 year career, and provides valuable insight about how and when to adapt your communication approach.
Missy is a strength and conditioning coach with over 20 years of experience at
both the high school and collegiate levels. She is the owner of SaFe Iron, LLC a consulting company that teaches simplified strength and conditioning principles to sport coaches. She also serves as the Director of Sports Performance for Fieldhouse Volleyball Club in the DFW
Metro Area, and is the Texas Assistant Sales and Business Development Director at
Power Lift, USA.
In addition, Mitchell-McBeth serves on the board of the National High School Strength Coaches Association, holding a MSEd in Exercise Physiology along with CSCS, SCCC, USAW, and FRCms certifications.
In today’s episode, you’ll hear Missy’s thoughts on:
- The values that guide her decisions and determine which hills she’s willing to die on
- Navigating difficult personalities in the workplace, despite generational differences
- Tips for deciding what “battles” to fight & advice for the young professional
- The keys to influencing someone like her - a very direct and “no B.S.” type of personality
How to Connect with Missy:
Website: Safeirontraining.com
Twitter & Instagram: @missyMmcbeth
Referenced Resources:
Quiz: What Drives You?
Leave a Review for the podcast
What questions do you have? What would you like to hear more about on our podcast? Please reach out to us directly at info@artofcoaching.com and let us know! Help us bring you the value you’re looking for!
Whether your goals are personal or professional in nature, there are no skills more transferable than people skills. Your level of social agility - your ability to listen well and speak appropriately, manage sensitive or sticky situations, and influence others - will not only set you apart from your peers, but also provide a higher level of satisfaction in your life and relationships. At AoC, our goal is to provide you with the tools, strategies and practice you need to make progress in these areas. Whether it’s through 1-to-1 mentoring, online courses, or live workshops, we’ve got you covered!
Today’s episode is brought to you by AG1. For those of us who juggle busy lives, being able to get your daily vitamins and minerals is not always easy. It doesn't matter what your morning routine consists of, sometimes you’re just on the go and you have to sacrifice the important for the urgent. That’s where AG1 comes in. Packed with 75 vitamins, minerals, and whole food sources, AG1 is what you need to stay on track and accountable to a healthy lifestyle, despite the chaos. Get a FREE 1-year supply of immune supporting vitamin D and 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase by going to drinkAG1.com/coach.

Monday Dec 11, 2023
Monday Dec 11, 2023
Comparison is the thief of joy, and FOMO is the enemy of you really valuing your own time, your own experience and your own perspective.
It can be so easy to get caught up in what we think we SHOULD be feeling during the holiday season - especially with the way it is promoted in all the cheesy movies, TV shows and social media.
So if you’re someone who struggles with this, or you know someone who does, its important to know you aren’t alone.
In fact, you fall into the majority.
Because there are so many people out there dealing with this, today’s episode is meant to address a number of factors we can control to improve our mood and adjust our perspectives and expectations of “the most wonderful time of the year.”
Here are just a few of the remedies you can implement:
- Motion is Lotion - how physical movement positively impacts your mood (18:10)
- Specific and simple strategies to change your environment (24:00)
- Why both pro-social behavior AND isolating yourself can be necessary (28:25)
- How to leverage your mood to benefit your productivity (41:30)
Referenced Materials:
AOC Podcast Episode 106 - Jesse Elis: The Authenticity Trap
AOC Podcast Episode 146 - How to Deal with Overwhelm & Burnout
Please help us support the Leukemia Lymphoma Foundation and the Alzheimer's Association by purchasing a signed copy of Conscious Coaching. This is not only a great cause, but gives us the chance to personally say thank you for supporting our small family-owned business. Your support makes a tremendous difference and we appreciate our community more than you know! CLICK HERE to make your purchase of $11.99/ each!
It's also hard to have a clear mind if you never get a chance to talk out some of the issues or problems you're struggling with. For this exact reason, we now offer our 1-on-1 Art of Coaching virtual mentoring program. Coaches need coaches too, and that's the value we can provide to you if you let us. Submit a request form today for more information!
We can’t say this enough, so we’ll say it again - WE VALUE YOUR FEEDBACK! If you have any questions, concerns or feedback to share, please reach out to use directly at info@artofcoaching.com. We would love to hear from you!
Today’s episode is brought to you by:
BetterHelp: Listen, life does not come with a user manual. You don't need me to tell you that. So when it's not working for you, maybe you feel like you're in a funk, maybe you're having a hard time making a decision, maybe you just need somebody to listen to you. It is an asset to be able to reach out to the world's largest therapy service. Better help has matched 3 million people with Professionally licensed and bedded therapists that are available 100% online, and it's affordable. Go to betterhelp.com/aoc.

Monday Dec 04, 2023
E303 | Critical Questions to Ask Yourself Before the Year Ends
Monday Dec 04, 2023
Monday Dec 04, 2023
The pursuit of personal and professional growth can be exhausting. It requires consistent open-mindedness, regular introspection, daily accountability and a willingness to challenge our own beliefs and opinions.
And let’s be honest - admitting you’re wrong is never fun or easy.
So, to help you in this pursuit, we want to share a list of 10 of our favorite reflection questions. We’ve not only used ourselves as a self-awareness tool, but also with our staff, family and friends to spark purposeful discussion, and to gain the outside perspective we need to reveal our blindspots. We hope you’ll benefit from them as much as we have!
Find a list of all 10 questions (plus a fun bonus question) by downloading our Podcast Reflection Questions if you haven’t already done so. And if you have any other questions that you’ve found particularly helpful, and you’d like to share, we’d love to hear them! You can reach us directly at info@artofcoaching.com.
If you find this episode helpful, check out our most updated FREE Self - Reflection Guide for another 150 questions or browse through any of our other free resources!
Help us in our fight against Leukemia and Alzheimer's by purchasing a Signed Copy of Conscious Coaching:
Each holiday season, we donate a portion of our signed book sales to these organizations. Because a core attribute of our business is conveying Midwest warmth and appreciation, we sell signed copies. This also gives us a chance to say thank you and personalize each individual copy. So if you want to donate to a good cause, and you know somebody that maybe would appreciate the book, or maybe you want to buy a bunch of them for your institution as other organizations have, or whatever it is, go to https://artofcoaching.com/product/book/.
Today’s episode is brought to you by AG1: They get it - you’re time poor and don’t always get in the fruits and veggies you know you should, especially during the holiday season. So take this opportunity to get the nutrients you need to keep your body healthy and functioning at an optimal level! Get a FREE 1 year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase simply by visiting drinkAG1.com/coach.

Monday Nov 27, 2023
Monday Nov 27, 2023
“True genius, in strategy or anywhere, lies in self-control, self-mastery, presence of mind, and fluidity of thought.” - Robert Greene
When it comes to the study of human nature, power dynamics and social intelligence, there’s perhaps no one more knowledgeable than Robert Greene.
Collectively, his 7 (soon to be 8) books have sold more than 20 million copies, and along the way he’s consulted countless world leaders, athletes, politicians and celebrities.
By scouring human history to understand patterns of behavior, he’s developed the unique ability to take incredibly complex and rich subject matter and whittle it down to key learnings that are relatable, tactical and applicable.
In this interview, we ask Robert what role communication, self-awareness and social intelligence played in not only his own life but also the historical figures he has dedicated his life to studying.
We cover:
- Tips for navigating the messiness of the human condition
- Behind the scenes of his new book, The Law of The Sublime
- Applying higher level strategy in sports and business
- The critical communication skill every coach must prioritize
- How our obsession with technology impacts our communication
Connect with Robert Greene:
Via his website / buy his books: https://www.robertgreene.co/
Via his social media: https://linktr.ee/Robertgreene
In this episode, you heard Brett and Robert talk about our live 2 day communication workshop - The Apprenticeship. If you’ve ever wanted to see how you come across to others, learn how to ethically influence people, navigate power dynamics and develop a strategy or approach for solving conflict or having hard conversations- join us! Your chance to secure your spot (***they’re limited***) and the Early Bird Discount for our upcoming San Francisco event ends December 3, so act today! Save $150 HERE!
Other AoC Resources:
1:1 Virtual or Group Mentoring/ Staff Development
Group Mentoring (The Coalition)
If this episode was helpful and you appreciated the replay, please do us a favor and leave us a review on iTunes and share the episode with anyone else you think would benefit from it. This helps us more than you know, and we can’t thank you enough for your time, effort, and support! And, as always, if you have any questions or specific topics you’d like to hear about, reach out to us directly at info@artofcoaching.com.

Monday Nov 20, 2023
E301 | Time and Energy Tips to Keep You Sane
Monday Nov 20, 2023
Monday Nov 20, 2023
“There just isn’t enough time in the day.”
Whether you’re a parent, a business owner, lead a group of people, or are simply a busy-body, we all experience times where we just can’t get it all done. There’s too much on our to-do list and not enough hours to knock it all out.
If this sounds like you, listen in! Today’s episode provides a tactical framework and strategy to help you quantify where and how you’re spending your time and energy, allowing you to analyze and prioritize your tasks in a way that aligns with your goals and objectives.
Specifically, I dive into:
- The difference between time and energy management
- 7 quantifiable categories of energy management
- How to use this tool to identify asymmetries and set boundaries
- A regular reassessment strategy for your staff or team
Referenced Resources:
So many of us struggle in this area, so if this resonates with you, please know you’re not alone! This is just one of the common topics we help individuals with through our 1:1 mentoring program. If you’re looking for support and want to find out how we can help you utilize the strategies we shared in today’s podcast, schedule a free discovery call with our team today! Or if you’d prefer, you can get in touch with our team directly by emailing us at info@artofcoaching.com.
If you liked this episode, we would truly appreciate it if you would leave a review. It helps us not to get buried under some of these bigger podcasts, and we want this information to reach as wide of an audience as possible. So share it with a friend or family member who might be interested! We appreciate your time and effort more than you know!
Today’s episode is brought to you by:
Mighty Networks Digital Community: Our digital community where you can gain access to information, discussion, and a group of professionals (including the AoC Team) who are serious about their development. For only $19.99/ month (free cancellation at any time) you can take your communication, leadership, and relationship skills to the next level. Join us today!
AG1: I constantly fall short when it comes to my daily nutrient intake. Whether that's because I'm traveling, or simply because things get hectic because, well - LIFE - it's just a great way to cover all of my bases. For less than $3 a day, it's a small micro habit with huge benefits. For a free one year supply of immune supporting vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase, go to drinkAG1.com/coach today!

Monday Nov 13, 2023
E300 | The Long Game: Creating Meaningful Work that Endures
Monday Nov 13, 2023
Monday Nov 13, 2023
Whether you're a long-time listener or just joining us, in this episode we explore how to turn the spark of an idea into a beacon for others, how to navigate the inevitable hurdles you will face with grace (sort of), and how to stay true to your vision when the climb gets steep. From the power of starting to the resilience needed to keep going, we're diving deep into what it takes to build something meaningful and keep it thriving.
Key Topics Discussed:
- Starting with a clear vision and being open to change.
- Approaching work with quality, consistency, and a mindset of service.
- Overcoming the common fears that plague creators and leaders.
- Practical steps to creating something that stands the test of time.
Referenced Resources:
Howt to start podcast
- 51 Podcast dirty secret
- 255 podcast strategies what i’ve learned
156 How to write book
artofcoaching.com/book - mentioned new book
Imposter download
Mentioned events - hope to see you in person
Next apprenticeship: On September 9th & 10th, The Art of Coaching team will be partnering with Diakadi Fitness for our LAST Apprenticeship of 2023. If you are unfamiliar with The Apprenticeship, it’s a highly interactive 2-day workshop that steps out beyond the boundaries of typical conferences and seminars. This isn’t a “rah-rah,” motivational, death by powerpoint event. On the contrary, by attending, you’ll experience the practice, coaching, and feedback you need to truly improve in the areas of communication, leadership, and building trusting relationships. And on top of that, you’ll earn 1.8 CEUs for 18 hours of continuing education. Sign up today to develop the skills necessary to help you strategically approach any conversation. We’ll see you there!

