In this edition of The Coaching Edge Podcast, cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Irena O’Brien unpacks the latest research on how our brains create lasting behavior change. Drawing on Richard Boyatzis’ work, she explains why coaches (and leaders) should spend roughly two-thirds of every conversation in the default-mode network—the space of vision, imagination, and the Positive Emotional Attractor—before shifting to the task-focused central-executive network.

Listeners will learn practical ways to toggle between these networks, including heart-rate-variability breathing, self-compassion practices, and bringing personal values to the forefront. The result? More creativity, energy, and sustainable change—for clients and coaches alike.

Watch the full episode here: https://thecoachingedgepodcast.com/coaching-through-the-brain-how-positive-emotional-attractors-drive-real-change/

In this episode of The Coaching Edge Podcast, hosts Erwin de Grave and Steve Jeffs sit down with coaching veteran Wendy Buckingham, whose career spans more than 25 years. Wendy shares her journey from journalist and business owner to one of Australia’s first trained life coaches, offering a compelling look into the early days of the profession and how it has evolved.

Wendy speaks candidly about the dilution of coaching’s core essence, the risks of over-niching, and the overwhelming complexity that new coaches often face. She champions the fundamentals of life coaching—listening, questioning, and facilitating client growth—while expressing concerns over the commodification and saturation of the industry.

She also explains why phone coaching can be more intimate than face-to-face sessions, the importance of training and certification, and how her communication skills and writing background helped her educate and empower through her popular website, Life Coaching Professionally.

Listeners will appreciate Wendy’s clarity, humility, and commitment to preserving coaching integrity while supporting the next generation of coaches.

Watch the full episode here: https://thecoachingedgepodcast.com/the-quiet-power-of-simplicity-in-coaching-wendy-buckinghams-25-year-journey/