Have you ever heard the phrase, "no plan survives first contact," or, "everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face"? 

These sayings might sound dramatic, but let’s be honest, they ring true. Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us, especially when we’re chasing our biggest, scariest goals.

When that happens, we’re often quick to rationalize, intellectualize, or make excuses for why we didn’t follow through. It’s human nature, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. The real question is: how can we stay the course, even when the unexpected happens?

Consistency is the truest measure of excellence and a life well lived. So, how do we tether ourselves to it? How do we make progress and avoid giving ground to the circumstances and stressors, both good and bad, that we inevitably face?

In this motivational episode, we cover:

• The most important component of credibility and how to maintain it
• How to stay consistent in the areas of life where progress and growth are critical
• Building your own daily tracker to hold yourself accountable 
• Avoiding the rut and keeping momentum alive, one small task at a time

Have a topic or question you’d like us to tackle on the podcast? Let us know at artofcoaching.com/question. We’re always striving to make our content as impactful and helpful as possible for our loyal listeners.

If you’d like our daily productivity template sent directly to your inbox for FREE, subscribe to our newsletter! Visit artofcoaching.com/begin to be the first to gain access to new courses, event dates, exclusive discounts, and new resources. Click here to stay in the loop!

We’re excited to announce the launch of TWO NEW EVENTS in 2025!

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 [email protected] to learn more and secure your spot today!

Ready to take action and improve your professional life?

The Coalition is a mentoring group for anyone serious about growth—no fluff, no pretension. Whether you’re leaving the corporate grind, scaling a business, or making bold career moves, this group is for you.

With two monthly Zoom calls, you’ll gain clarity, accountability, and the support of a driven community to help you take meaningful action.

Applications for the next round starting in 2025 are open now. Apply at artofcoaching.com/coalition.

If you want to uncover what truly drives you—and what moves others—take our FREE Drives Quiz at artofcoaching.com/whatdrivesyou. Unlike traditional tools like DISC or Myers-Briggs, our algorithm is designed to dig deeper, call out any BS, and even flag potential lies or aspirational answers to give you honest, actionable insights.

Learn about yourself, uncover your blind spots, and start by using this game changing tool today!

Related Episodes:

E49 | Productivity That Matters

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

New year, new you, right? 

Many of us set resolutions and goals this time of year, which is a great way to start fresh. But let’s be honest: flipping the calendar doesn’t magically fix everything in our lives.

If we want to truly step up as leaders, spouses, parents, or high achievers, we need to confront the uncomfortable “stuff” we’ve been avoiding. It’s about unpacking the baggage we’ve been dragging along, facing it head-on, and making the changes that not only improve our lives but also ripple out to everyone around us.

It’s not easy. In fact, it might be harder than losing that last 15 pounds or finally contributing more to your retirement—but that’s why you’re here. So let’s get to work.

In today’s episode, Brett discusses:

• Carl Jung’s concept of The Shadow and how it can help you become a better leader
• The true definition of culture and how to forge a resilient group identity
• Strategies to recognize and address your internal struggles
• The damage caused when avoided baggage “leaks” out onto our loved ones

Today’s episode touched on unpacking your inner baggage—the rationalizations, intellectualizing, and excuses that hold you back. If you’re ready to take action, there’s no better place to work on yourself than at one of our live workshops.

Join us at The Apprenticeship in New Jersey this March, where we’ll dive into human behavior, why we act the way we do, and how to overcome the obstacles we create for ourselves. Through interactive activities like improv and practical exercises, you’ll walk away with tools to lead more effectively—both personally and professionally.

Check out all of our 2025 dates at artofcoaching.com/events. Don’t wait, spaces fill fast!

Ready to take action and improve your professional life?

The Coalition is a mentoring group for anyone who’s serious about growth, without the fluff or pretension of a typical “mastermind.” Whether you’re dreaming of leaving the corporate grind to start your own small business, running a business but ready to scale to the next level, or simply looking to make bold moves in your career, this group is for you.

With two recorded Zoom calls a month, we provide a private, welcoming environment where you’ll gain clarity, accountability, and a trusted community that pushes you to take real, meaningful action. This isn’t just another networking group, it’s a place to focus on what matters and actually get things done.

Applications for the next round starting in 2025 are open now. Apply at artofcoaching.com/coalition.

If you want to uncover what truly drives you—and what moves others—take our FREE Drives Quiz at artofcoaching.com/whatdrivesyou. Unlike traditional tools like DISC or Myers-Briggs, our algorithm is designed to dig deeper, call out any BS, and even flag potential lies or aspirational answers to give you honest, actionable insights.

Learn about yourself, uncover your blind spots, and start influencing more effectively today!

Related Episodes:

E340 | Framework Bandwagons & The Illusion of Competence

E344 | Tips For ‘Balancing’ Work And Family Life

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

This week, we’re revisiting one of our most popular episodes, because the questions about this topic just keep coming! While giving feedback is a skill many want to master, the real secret lies in learning how to receive it. (’Tis the inverse of the season)

Hearing where we can improve is tough, and the common advice about giving feedback—like the “sandwich technique”—often falls flat in real-world situations. Instead of sharing surface-level tactics, we’re diving into strategies that actually work, both for receiving and giving feedback effectively.

In this throwback episode, we cover:

• The science behind why we often respond poorly to feedback
• Why rationalizing doesn’t help (and how to stop doing it)
• What to say when you receive feedback you don’t understand or agree with
• When it’s appropriate to reject someone’s feedback

THE COALITION – Hurry, the doors are closing soon! Less than a month left to apply for the next round.

The Coalition is a mentoring group designed for busy professionals ready to grow. With two recorded Zoom calls a month, we provide a private, welcoming environment where you’ll gain clarity, accountability, and the support of a community that pushes you to take action.

This group is for everyone—whether you’re taking on new projects at work and need guidance, ready to turn your side hustle into your main gig, or an experienced professional looking to scale your business. The Coalition is your personal group of trusted advisors to help you focus on what truly matters. No fluff, just real progress.

Apply now at artofcoaching.com/coalition/

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. 

ALL THE FREE STUFF – If the reading list isn’t quite enough for you and you want to check out our other free resources, we’ve got plenty to choose from! Head over to artofcoaching.com/resources to see what’s available and start exploring.

COME SEE US – Think the free stuff is good? Imagine the impact of connecting with us in person! Check out the 2025 Art of Coaching Live Events calendar to see what we’re cooking up. Don’t miss your chance to join us for a transformative experience!

STAY IN THE LOOP – Sign up for our newsletter at artofcoaching.com/begin to stay updated on our latest content, exclusive discounts, and early access to events. Don’t miss a thing!

Related Episodes:

E194 | How To Become A Better Listener

E127 | How To Give The Most Effective Feedback

E85 | Why Won’t They Listen To Me? Reasons Your Message Isn’t Getting Across

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

Regret. It’s a loaded word, especially around the holidays. 

But it doesn’t have to be as painful as it seems. Imagine the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’ve done everything in your power to let someone truly understand where you’re coming from and why. How can we hold ourselves accountable and ensure we’re not the problem in those critical moments?

Maybe you’re one of the lucky ones who doesn’t have heavy personal issues to navigate. Instead, you want to show up for your team, lead with intention, and set bold goals for the year ahead. To do that, clear communication skills are essential, not just for closing this year but for leveling up in the next.

Here’s the truth: self-awareness is a gift greater than anything you’ll find under the tree. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you be more present and intentional in every moment of your life, whether big or small.

In this episode, Brett discusses:

• Multiple frameworks to evaluate and improve any interaction
• The importance of removing the mask and showing up authentically in conversations
• Avoidance patterns and the hidden cost of not engaging
• *BONUS* A script to coax someone into loosening a verbal headlock

If you’d like a FREE PDF on this topic sign up for our newsletter at artofcoaching.com/begin. Not only will the PDF be sent directly to your inbox, but you’ll get first access to new courses, event dates, and exclusive updates! Click here to subscribe.

Give the gift of the timeless text that started it all!

Fill your stockings with a signed copy of the book that launched AOC, Conscious Coaching. It’s a great gift for friends, family, or even your entire staff. Bulk orders are available, and each book will be personally signed!

Your support of our small business means the world to us. We’re incredibly grateful for the chance to personally thank you for being part of our community!

THE COALITION – Hurry, the doors are closing soon! Only one month left to apply for the next round.

The Coalition is a mentoring group designed for busy professionals ready to grow. With two recorded Zoom calls a month, we provide a private, welcoming environment where you’ll gain clarity, accountability, and the support of a community that pushes you to take action.

This group is for everyone—whether you’re taking on new projects at work and need guidance, ready to turn your side hustle into your main gig, or an experienced professional looking to scale your business. The Coalition is your personal group of trusted advisors to help you focus on what truly matters. No fluff, just real progress.

Apply now at artofcoaching.com/coalition/!

THE APPRENTICESHIP – We’re heading to the Northeast March 22-23 for our ONLY stop in the Northeast next year! Join us at King Strength & Performance in Livingston, NJ, for a hands-on, 2-day workshop designed to transform how you lead, communicate, and connect. Whether you’re looking to develop leadership skills, improve your ability to sell, navigate tough conversations, or gain a deeper understanding of strategic communication and power dynamics, this course is for you.

No fluff—just real practice, coaching, and feedback. You’ll leave with actionable tools, including a communication evaluation framework to handle any conversation with confidence.

Discounts are available for first responders, students, and groups, plus early bird pricing is LIVE NOW until February 22, 2025. Email [email protected] for more information and reserve your spot today!

Today’s episode is brought to you by our lifelong partner, Momentous.

In the overwhelming world of internet gurus and conflicting advice, it’s easy to get confused about what supplements you actually need. That’s why we trust Momentous, a brand that stands out with products scientifically developed and rigorously tested to meet the highest standards. Their supplements are trusted by Olympians and professional athletes and hold the distinguished NSF Certified for Sport seal.

We’ve mentioned our favorites—fish oil, whey protein, and creatine—but if you’re wondering what’s right for you, check out the Build My Routine feature at livemomentus.com. It simplifies the process and gives you tailored recommendations from a trusted source.

Support a company that shares our values. Visit livemomentus.com and use code BRETT15 at checkout to save 15% sitewide.

Stick to what’s tested. Trust what’s proven. Choose Momentous.

Related Episodes:

E350 | The End Of The Year Goal Audit You Need

E351 | The Accountability Gap & Facing Uncomfortable Growth

E269 | How To Ask Better Questions

Referenced Media:

Jumanji SNL Skit

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

There’s nowhere lonelier in the world than rock bottom. 

It’s a place where overwhelm, anxiety, and uncertainty feel relentless, and the total weight of your burden makes moving forward seem impossible. Staying down is a choice, but it’s one that you really can’t afford to make.

Before you pick yourself up, you need to know exactly where you are. When you recognize where the demons holding you down come from, you can see the path you need to take to fight back and regain control. 

It’s not about hacks, quick fixes, or the perfect framework. It’s about facing the hard truth head-on, with squared shoulders, and taking action, even when the easy choice is to stay down.

In this episode we cover:

• The three most common responses to overwhelm and a “salty” alternative
• How to categorize our stressors so we can divide and conquer
• Self discrepancy theory and making peace with our whole selves
• Investing in yourself and the pitfalls of “playing tight”

To get the most out of this episode, and every episode in our library, download our free bonus reflection question sheets. They’re designed to help you think deeper, organize your thoughts, apply what you’ve learned, and TAKE ACTION.

You still have time to take advantage of our HOLIDAY SALE! 

Visit artofcoaching.com/blackfriday to take advantage of these limited-time deals:

30% OFF COURSES – Build your skills in leadership, communication, and more at your own pace.  

20% OFF MENTORING – Get personalized coaching tailored to your specific goals.

10% OFF LIVE EVENTS – Join us for hands-on workshops and connect with like-minded professionals.

These are the largest discounts we offer all year. Treat yourself—or someone else this holiday season—to the gift of more meaningful connections, deeper personal growth, and becoming a more effective leader..

Looking for the perfect holiday gift?

Fill your stockings with a signed copy of Conscious Coaching. It’s a great gift for friends, family, or even your entire staff. Bulk orders are available, and each book will be personally signed!

Your support of our small business means the world to us. We’re incredibly grateful for the chance to personally thank you for being part of our community!

THE APPRENTICESHIP – We’re heading to the Northeast March 22-23 for our ONLY stop in the Northeast next year! Join us at King Strength & Performance in Livingston, NJ, for a hands-on, 2-day workshop designed to transform how you lead, communicate, and connect. Whether you’re looking to develop leadership skills, improve your ability to sell, navigate tough conversations, or gain a deeper understanding of strategic communication and power dynamics, this course is for you.

No fluff—just real practice, coaching, and feedback. You’ll leave with actionable tools, including a communication evaluation framework to handle any conversation with confidence.

Discounts are available for first responders, students, and groups, plus early bird pricing is LIVE NOW until February 22, 2025. Email [email protected] for more information and reserve your spot today!

Related Episodes:

E301 | Time and Energy Management Tips To Keep You Sane

E273 | The Productivity Myth: Tips For Making Sustainable Progress Without Sacraficing Your Sanity

E263 | Putting Yourself First: Why Being Strategically Selfish Will Make You A Better Leader

E49 | Productivity That Matters

Referenced Resources:

Our FREE Drives Quiz

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

This is not a “social media is bad” episode. 

That conversation has been talked to death. The truth is, very few things are inherently good or bad—it’s all in how you use them. But today’s episode is about how they use you. If “they” were writing this, they’d correct me and say, it’s how we allow them to use us.

What makes the algorithm so effective at manipulating our sense of self worth and exploiting our deepest insecurities? Why do we fall into cycles of comparison, inadequacy, and pleasure seeking that keep us hooked? More importantly, how can we recognize these traps and reclaim control before they erode our self identity and damage our relationships?

This episode is raw and unfiltered, straight from the heart and brutally honest. Brett speaks uncomfortable truths, using current cultural trends to challenge how we think and act.

In this episode, Brett unpacks:

• Self-completion theory and why the “never enough” voice always catches our ear
• How to audit the “feed” that’s fueling your thoughts
• Engaging with content intentionally and seeing things from the other side
• Living the life you’re called to without falling for the pain avoidance lie

There’s so much more covered in this episode than we could ever fit into this description! To get the most out of this episode, and every episode in our library, download our free bonus reflection question sheets. They’re designed to help you think deeper, apply what you’ve learned, and TAKE ACTION.

OUR HOLIDAY/BLACK FRIDAY SALE IS STILL ON! Visit artofcoaching.com/blackfriday to take advantage of these limited-time deals:

30% OFF COURSES – Build your skills in leadership, communication, and more at your own pace.  

20% OFF MENTORING – Get personalized coaching tailored to your specific goals.

10% OFF LIVE EVENTS – Join us for hands-on workshops and connect with like-minded professionals.

These are the largest discounts we offer all year. Treat yourself—or someone else this holiday season—to the gift of more meaningful connections, deeper personal growth, and becoming a more effective leader..

THE COALITION - We’re all busy, but we still strive to grow. How do you truly measure progress? It can be a tough pill to swallow, but it’s worth remembering: intentions mean nothing without action. If you need help distinguishing between what’s urgent and what truly matters in your brand or business, then this group is for you! Think of it as your personal board of advisors—no BS, just a clear framework to help you start taking action. It's virtual, so it fits easily into your schedule, and includes a retreat to a fun location! If you're tired of the excuses and ready to act on your dreams of more, fill out this form, or reach out to us at [email protected] and our team will be in touch about getting you in our next round.

Today’s episode is brought to you by our lifelong partner, Momentous.

For years, Momentous has been a brand we trust, and their loyalty—something rare these days—means the world to us as a small business. Their commitment to quality, backed by science and rigorous testing, sets them apart.

We especially love their protein, creatine, fish oil, and sleep stack—all essentials in our daily routine.

Support a company that stands by its values. Visit livemomentus.com and use code BRETT15 at checkout to save 15% sitewide on your first purchase.

Stick to what’s tested. Trust what’s proven. Choose Momentous.

Related Episodes:

E353 | What To Do If You Feel Like You're Stagnating

Referenced Articles:

Wall Street Journal Article: Lazy Girl Jobs

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

Lazy. 

It's one of the most shameful things you can be. And it's largely a title or accusation we make of ourselves. Why do we so frequently feel utterly drained, craving time to unwind and escape reality?

Is there a way to not just reclaim that time, but to structure our days more intentionally to prevent fatigue from building and spiraling into a never-ending cycle? What can we do to finally experience relief and regain control?

In today’s episode, Brett provides a framework to identify the warning signs, uncover the deeper issues at play, and ensure these feelings don’t erode your self-worth.

In this episode, we explore:

• Psychological insights explaining why we feel so depleted
• How to prioritize and structure your week to optimize work and rest
• Mini retreats, transition rituals, and other tools to mentally reset during the day
• Strategies for filling your cup and consistently showing up for YOURSELF

Today’s episode comes from a listener request! If you have a topic or question, submit it at artofcoaching.com/question. For deeper discussions and practical advice on this topic and more, join our private community—where you can connect directly with Brett, our Facilitators, and other like-minded individuals.

OUR BLACK FRIDAY SALE IS STILL ON! Visit artofcoaching.com/blackfriday to take advantage of these limited-time deals:

30% OFF COURSES – Build your skills in leadership, communication, and more at your own pace.  

20% OFF MENTORING – Get personalized coaching tailored to your specific goals.

10% OFF LIVE EVENTS – Join us for hands-on workshops and connect with like-minded professionals.

These are the largest discounts we offer all year. This sale won’t last long—check it out now and save big!

Are you an avid listener or consumer of our content but haven’t yet read the foundational book at the heart of what we do? Purchase a signed edition of Conscious Coaching, and proceeds will support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Foundation and the Alzheimer’s Association. We are a small business and your support helps us continue our mission, and we’re grateful to have you in our community.

Related Episodes:

E76 | Getting Out of Your Own Way

E133 | Taking Responsibility For Your Own Growth

E144 | Tips For “Balancing” Work And Family Life

E149 | 5 Big Lies We Tell Ourselves That  Hinder Our Progress

E151 | How To Ask For Help

E259 | Understanding And Overcoming Perfectionism

E331 | Dontari Poe: Mental Toughness Myths And Life TipsFollow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

Have you ever felt stuck or stagnant? 

That restless feeling like you’re spinning your wheels, going nowhere fast, yet knowing deep down that you need to break free.

Stagnation isn’t just about a lack of progress; it’s a state of mind that can creep into any part of your life—your career, your relationships, or even your personal growth. But the good news? Feeling stuck is a signal, not a sentence.

If you’re hard on yourself, hold high expectations, and tend to overthink, this episode is for you. Brett shares tips and strategies to help you break free from your own head and get back on track. 

Listen in for insights on these topics and more:

• How to create and leverage your own “minimum viable day”
• Making friends with the monster and how to embrace our struggles
• The power of failure simulations
• Why using an “I Got This Done” list may be more helpful than your “To Do” list

Don’t miss out! Our biggest sale of the year is coming—Black Friday is just around the corner, and you’ll want to be the first to know. Sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop on exclusive updates, event dates, and first access to our best deals. Be ready when the sale drops! Subscribe here.

THE APPRENTICESHIP – We’re heading to the Northeast March 22-23 for our ONLY stop in the region next year! Join us at King Strength & Performance in Livingston, NJ, for a hands-on, 2-day workshop designed to transform how you lead, communicate, and connect. Whether you’re looking to develop leadership skills, improve your ability to sell, navigate tough conversations, or gain a deeper understanding of strategic communication and power dynamics, this course is for you.

No fluff—just real practice, coaching, and feedback. You’ll leave with actionable tools, including a communication evaluation framework to handle any conversation with confidence.

Discounts are available for first responders, students, and groups, plus early bird pricing is LIVE NOW until February 22, 2025. Email [email protected] for more information and reserve your spot today!

Today’s episode is sponsored by Momentous, our trusted partner. When it comes to performance and safety, what you put in your body matters. Momentous products are NSF Certified for Sport, meeting the same rigorous standards required of Olympic athletes. We love their whey protein, creatine, and fish oil for their proven, science-backed results. Visit livemomentus.com and use code BRETT15 at checkout to save 15%. Stick to the basics, choose what’s tested, and trust what’s proven.

Referenced Resource:

Chaos Checklist

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

When they’re your best player or most productive employee, but ALSO the biggest thorn in your side. 

We’ve all been there and had to deal with the type. What do you do?

This episode transcends the specific context of coaching a high school athlete to tackle a broader, universal challenge faced by leaders, managers, and professionals everywhere. Whether you’re navigating a workplace dynamic, coaching a team, or leading a group, this discussion will equip you with strategies to help difficult individuals recognize their behavior, foster deeper connections, and ultimately drive meaningful improvement.

Brett dives into actionable insights to help you set boundaries, uncover root issues, and avoid falling into the trap of enabling destructive patterns.

In this episode, we explore:

• The importance of setting realistic expectations
• How to systematically funnel multiple issues to uncover the core problem
• The real reason behind narcissistic and emotionally immature behavior
• Facing conflict head-on and the danger of shielding people from consequences 

Today’s episode comes from a listener request! If you have a topic or question, submit it at artofcoaching.com/question. For deeper discussions and practical advice, join our private community—free from social media distractions—where you can connect with facilitators and like-minded individuals. Questions? Email us at [email protected].

Stay in the loop – Sign up for our newsletter to get first access to new courses, event dates, and exclusive updates: Subscribe here.

Attend our live events – Join us for hands-on workshops 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 Brett here.

One-on-one mentoring – Work directly with our team to receive personalized coaching and actionable advice tailored to your goals: Apply here.

Explore our virtual courses – Timeless lessons on leadership, building buy-in, conquering burnout, and overcoming blindspots to align your career with your personal goals: Enroll now.

THE COALITION – Busy but eager to grow? Progress requires action, not just intentions. This group is your personal board of advisors—offering a no-nonsense framework to help you focus on what truly matters. It’s virtual, fits into your schedule, and includes an exciting retreat! Ready to act on your dreams? Fill out this form, or email us at [email protected] and our team will be in touch about getting you in our next round.

THE APPRENTICESHIP - We’re heading to the northeast March 22-23! Join us at King Strength & Performance in Livingston, NJ for a hands-on, 2-day workshop to sharpen your communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills. No fluff—just real practice, coaching, and feedback. You’ll leave with a communication evaluation tool and other resources to tackle any conversation.  Sign up TODAY, we’ll see you there!

Referenced Resource:

E313 | How To Communicate With Someone Who Shuts Down or Stonewalls 

Book: Conscious Coaching

Free Webinar on Creating Optimal Coaching Environment

Article: The Role of Athlete Narcissism in Moderating the Relationship Between Coaches’ Transformational Leader Behaviors and Athlete Motivation

E202 | Why Facts And Logic Don’t Change Our Minds

Recommended Resource:

Conscious Coaching Field Guide (free download)

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

Twitter/X: @coach_brettb

The knot in your stomach. That flush of unease when you know you’ve fallen short of your own standards. 

The only way to truly adapt and evolve is through real vulnerability—not the gentle, polished kind from TED talks, but the raw honesty that forces you to confront hard truths about yourself. 

This isn’t about stepping out of your comfort zone in a clichéd way; it’s about embracing the discomfort and going to war until you’re fully transformed.

Today’s guest, Kyle Holland, knows a thing or two about facing challenges head-on. As an Exercise Physiologist with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, he’s worked in some of the most demanding environments and spent 10 years with the 160th SOAR(A), a Special Operations Unit in the Army. Kyle has also trained professional athletes and MMA fighters at Mike Boyle Strength and Conditioning and worked with both the University of Iowa and Louisville’s football programs. A devoted husband and father of three, Kyle brings a grounded perspective to every topic he tackles.

In this episode, Brett and Kyle dive into real talk on topics including:

• Taking accountability for your actions when you’re in the wrong
• How to turn your setbacks into springboards for grow with grace 
• Strategies to avoid being cut by the double-edged sword of strengths and weaknesses
• Why politics gets us so riled up 
• *Brett reveals a major life change and how he’s choosing to respond

We want to thank Kyle for joining us! Follow him on X at @CoachK_Holland and on Instagram @coachkyleholland. You can also find him across the AOC universe—at our live events and online in our digital community.

AOC WORLDWIDE - If you’d like to host one of our Live Events in the United States or ABROAD, we’d love to bring AOC directly to you.  This includes Speaker School, Brand Builder, and our new Writer’s Workshop. We’re hitting the road and would love to partner with you to create an amazing experience for you, your team, and your community.  Reach out to us at [email protected] and our team will work on the logistics.

THE APPRENTICESHIP - We’re coming back to the northeast March 22nd-23rd!  Join us and our friends from King Strength & Performance in Livingston, NJ for our highly interactive 2-day workshop for those looking to improve their ability to communicate, lead, and build strong relationships.  This isn’t a “rah-rah,” motivational, death by powerpoint seminar.  Instead, you’ll experience the practice, coaching, and feedback you need to truly grow.  And better yet, you’ll get to take home a quantifiable communication evaluation tool, as well as several other tools to help you strategically approach any conversation.  Sign up TODAY.  We’ll see you there!

THE COALITION - We’re all busy, but we still strive to grow. How do you truly measure progress? It can be a tough pill to swallow, but it’s worth remembering: intentions mean nothing without action. If you need help distinguishing between what’s urgent and what truly matters in your brand or business, then this group is for you! Think of it as your personal board of advisors—no BS, just a clear framework to help you start taking action. It's virtual, so it fits easily into your schedule, and includes a retreat to a fun location! If you're tired of the excuses and ready to act on your dreams of more, fill out this form, or reach out to us at [email protected] and our team will be in touch about getting you in our next round..

Related Episodes:

E350 | The End of The Year Goal Audit You Need

E311 | Vulnerability in Leadership

Referenced Resource:

Book: Crystalizing Public Opinion by Edward Bernays 

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

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Audit. It’s one of the most unsettling words in the English dictionary, carrying a connotation of fear and unease that makes people shy away from even the slightest hint of it 

But, like most intimidating things, an audit becomes far less daunting once you look at it more closely. One definition of an audit is simply “a systematic review or assessment of something.” Think of it as a straightforward check-in—a moment to take stock of where you stand and where you want to go.

At the end of the day, an audit is really about something we talk about time and time again: accountability. It’s a chance to be honest with ourselves about what’s working, what’s not, and how we can move forward with intention.

In today’s episode, Brett guides you through practical steps to reflect, recalibrate, and get back on track before the year wraps up. If you wait until January it will be too late. Topics we’ll dive into include:

• Assessing your goals and determining when to pivot
• How to  measure growth and allow yourself grace when it’s lacking
• Identifying your needle movers and deciding if it’s time to double down 
• Letting go of the things and people who no longer serve you
• Constructing an immediate action plan to get started NOW

If you find this episode helpful, check out our most updated FREE Self – Reflection Guide or browse through any of our other free resources!

We’ve also created an amazing virtual course called Blindspot designed to help you tackle the barriers keeping you from achieving your personal and professional goals.

Consider joining our Mighty Networks Digital Community, where you’ll gain access to information, discussion, and a group of professionals (including the AoC Team) who are serious about their development and will help you confront the biggest obstacles keeping you from achieving your goals.  For only $19.99/ month (free cancellation at any time) you can take your communication, leadership, and relationship skills to the next level. 

If you’d like to host one of our Live Events in the United States or ABROAD, we’d love to bring AOC directly to you.  This includes Speaker School, Brand Builder, and our new Writer’s Workshop. We’re hitting the road and would love to partner with you to create an amazing experience for you, your team, and your community.  Reach out to us at [email protected] and our team will work on the logistics.

New to our content? Start with the foundational text that inspired it all—grab a copy of Conscious Coaching today! If you’d like to purchase a signed copy, proceeds will go to supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Foundation and the Alzheimer’s Association. Your support of our small business means the world to us, and we’re incredibly grateful to have the chance to personally thank you for being part of our community!

Related Episodes:

E303 | Critical Questions To Ask Yourself Before The Year Ends

Recommended Resource:

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Website: ArtofCoaching.com

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