Episode 260: How AI is Elevating Human Coaching
Ruth Kudzi explains why the rise of AI coaching is increasing demand for human coaches. She explores how AI lowers the cost of coaching support and opens it up to more people, acting as a gateway to deeper work rather than an alternative to it. Ruth looks at what only a human coach can bring, […]
Episode 259: Navigating the New ICF Mentor Process
Ruth Kudzi explains what happens in an ICF-style mentor session and how the ICF’s new mentoring process, required across accredited programmes by April 2027, changes coach training. She shares why working with an ICF-accredited mentor matters, how five one-to-one sessions replace the final observation, and how strengths, growth edges and your own coaching style shape […]
Episode 258: Embracing the SERVE Framework for Coaching Leadership
Ruth Kudzi introduces her SERVE framework for coaching leadership, explaining how a leader’s state shapes their team and why trust, reflection, and valuing people are key to building a coaching culture. She shares practical ways to move from being the decision-making bottleneck to helping team members build autonomy, ownership, and confidence. Timestamps: 00:00 Introducing the SERVE framework 01:18 Why a leader’s state affects the team 02:15 Managing your state before coaching others […]
Episode 257: Bridging Worlds: Crystal Small’s Path from Policing structures to Coaching Futures
From the structure of policing to a coaching career built on her own terms, Crystal Small’s story is one of stepping into the unknown and choosing to design a life with intention. I loved this conversation on the Coaching Hub. Crystal is a brilliant coach and supervisor, part of the Optimus team, and someone who’s genuinely walked the path she now helps […]
Episode 257: Bridging Worlds: Crystal Small’s Path from Policing structures to Coaching Futures
From the structure of policing to a coaching career built on her own terms, Crystal Small’s story is one of stepping into the unknown and choosing to design a life with intention. I loved this conversation on the Coaching Hub. Crystal is a brilliant coach and supervisor, part of the Optimus team, and someone who’s genuinely walked the path she now helps […]
Episode 256: Mindset, Motivation and M.A.G.I.C. with Claire Brumby
What if nearly losing your life became the catalyst for reinventing how you lead? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I’m joined by Claire Brumby to talk about living and leading with M.A.G.I.C., mindset, awakening, gumption, intuition and charisma. Claire is an award-winning entrepreneur, keynote speaker and accredited leadership coach. She built the healthy snacking brand Scrubby Crisps from a kitchen table idea into an internationally recognised product range, pitched it on Dragons’ Den, […]
Episode 255: How to integrate AI into coaching without losing the human touch
AI is reshaping the business landscape at speed, but can a machine ever do the one thing coaching is really about, truly seeing another person? This week on the Coaching Hub, Nic Cuthbert and I explore where the line falls between what AI should handle and what only a human can. Nic co-founded Happy AI, and he’s refreshingly clear-eyed. AI is brilliant at repetitive operational tasks, but the heart of coaching, genuine connection and human understanding, […]
Episode 254: From 300lb Bodybuilder to Mindset Coach: Lewys’ Transformation Story
At his heaviest, Lewys Morgan-Smith weighed 300lb, ticked every box the fitness world told him to, and was completely miserable. It took a breathless moment on the stairs to make him rethink everything. In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I’m joined by Lewys, a mindset, physique and performance coach and founder of The Revival Coach. He shares an honest transformation […]
Episode 253: Why supervision is non-negotiable for coaches
With increased attention from professional bodies like the ICF, supervision is becoming more standardised and recognised as essential. One of the co-founders Coaching Catalysts Sarah Bramall and I discuss the vital role of supervision in the coaching profession, tracing their own journeys from education into coaching and how their shared backgrounds inform their commitment to ongoing development and ethical practice. Sarah highlights how supervision offers a confidential and supportive space for coaches […]
Episode 252: The Missing Piece in Leadership Development with Robert Stephenson
No elite athlete wins alone, so why do so many leaders try to? That question sits at the heart of my conversation with Robert Stephenson, a coach, mentor, supervisor and leadership facilitator. We explore the crucial role of coaching and support in modern leadership, and why it’s so often the piece leaders neglect. Robert shares his unconventional route from acting and theatre into coaching, and why leaders […]
Episode 251: Coaching Skills Every Leader Must Master
Are you stuck feeling like you need to have all the answers as a leader? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I challenge the traditional command-and-control model and explain why today’s great leaders excel by asking better questions and empowering their people rather than simply giving orders. You’ll discover why embracing a coaching approach, […]
Episode 250: Why Every Serious Coach Needs Supervision
Is your coaching practice truly evolving, or are unseen blind spots holding you back? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I demystify coaching supervision and share why it’s absolutely essential for any coach committed to growth, impact, and professionalism. Discover what supervision really is: a confidential, reflective space where you can process client work, identify patterns, explore ethical dilemmas, and gain fresh insight into your coaching approach. I explain how supervision goes beyond competency […]
Episode 249: Stop Micromanaging: Use Coaching Instead
Are you exhausted as a leader and stuck in a cycle of micromanagement? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I explore why so many passionate, goal-oriented leaders slip into micromanagement, even when they know it leads to frustration, burnout, and disengagement. Drawing on personal experience and psychological research, I share how the need for control is often driven by a desire to ensure competence and “just get things done,” especially under pressure. Relying […]
Episode 248: How to Improve Your Coaching Skills Through Self-Awareness
What’s truly holding you back as a coach? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I dig into why your biggest limitation isn’t your clients or your coaching tools, it’s your own self-awareness. I discuss the surprising truth that only a small percentage of people are genuinely self-aware, even though most of us think we know ourselves well. I share how self-awareness shapes every aspect of your coaching: how you relate, hold space, manage your energy, and respond in the moment. Covering why having your own coach […]
Episode 247: How Great Coaches Build Deep Connection
The foundation of powerful coaching isn’t tools or strategies, it’s genuine connection and trust. In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I explore how real coaching impact starts with the quality of the relationship you build with your clients, right from the very first moment. I talk about why connection and safety are non-negotiable in coaching. Clients decide early if they can trust you, and if they don’t feel truly valued or seen, it’s almost […]
Episode 246: Transformational Coaching Isn’t What You Think
What really makes coaching transformational – and why is that different from just working through a list of actions or chasing a specific goal? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I break down the real heart of transformational coaching and why it goes far deeper than most people realise. I share how, so often, what clients come to coaching for isn’t actually what they truly need – there’s almost always a deeper layer hidden under […]
Episode 245: Why Coaching Clients Get Stuck (And How to Fix It Immediately)
Why do coaching clients so often hit a wall with “I don’t know”, and how can you as a coach deal with it skillfully – without panicking or falling into quick-fix patterns? In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I explore what’s really happening when clients get stuck and offer practical strategies to turn these moments into […]
Episode 244: Is the Golden Age of Personal Development Over?
Is the golden age of personal development over, or is the industry simply going through a necessary shift? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I take a closer look at how personal development has evolved and why we’re starting to question the influence of gurus who were once placed on a pedestal. I explore what led to the rise of these figures, the impact of cancel culture, and how unrealistic expectations of perfection have shaped both the industry and the people within it. I also explore our tendency to outsource our thinking, and what that means for genuine, sustainable growth. More importantly, I challenge the idea […]
Episode 243: Are Coaching Models Dying?
Are traditional coaching models becoming obsolete in the age of AI and increasingly personalised approaches? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I explore how the coaching landscape is evolving and ask whether well-known models like GROW, CLEAR, and OSCAR still hold their place in a world where AI can already replicate structured conversations. I reflect on my own journey with these frameworks and why they continue to matter, particularly as foundational tools for newer coaches building confidence and structure in their practice. At the same time, I share the growing shift towards more individualised, relational coaching that moves beyond rigid models and into deeper, more human-centred work. We’ll look at the balance between structure and flexibility, the limitations of a “one-size-fits-all” or “sausage machine” approach, and […]
Episode 242: What Master Coaches Do Differently
What does true mastery look like in coaching, and how do Master Certified Coaches set themselves apart? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I share the reality of mastery beyond flashy techniques or the latest tools. Whether you’re an aspiring coach, pursuing your MCC, or just curious about the journey to excellence, this episode offers a candid look at the path toward coaching mastery. I reflect on my own experience training as a Master Certified Coach and dive into the difference between coaching the person versus coaching the problem and why genuine presence, partnership, and curiosity matter more than any model or framework. You’ll discover how the best coaches bring deep self-awareness, embrace not knowing, and use space and precision in service of their clients. I unpack why mastery is a never-ending journey, how every coaching conversation is shaped by our state of being, and why human connection and transformational impact can never be replaced by AI. What’s inside Coaching mastery isn’t about techniques or tools, but presence with clients Committing to continuous learning and growth, not believing oneself to be a finished “master” The importance of a growth mindset in becoming an MCC Being present and non-judgmental allows for deeper conversations A defining trait of master coaches is focusing on the person as a whole Mastery takes a holistic, human-to-human approach that cannot be replicated by AI. Key topics covered: 00:00 Intro 00:03 Mastery in coaching is about who you are in the room 01:02 Focusing on continually learning and evolving 01:54 Master coaches are deeply committed to improving their craft 02:39 Recognising and addressing blind spots 03:34 Adopting a growth mindset for improvement 04:23 Mastery is about coaching the person 05:30 Operating without attachment to being right 07:12 Genuine curiosity reveals deeper insights. 08:13 At Master level, questions are sharper 11:13 Courageous challenge defines transformational coaching. About Ruth Kudzi: Ruth is the founder of Optimus Coaching Academy and a well-respected and successful coach, speaker and author who has worked across sectors including leadership, career and more recently business and mindset. She has over 10,000 coaching hours and has completed hundreds of hours of training and coaching supervision. Ruth is an MCC-level coach with the ICF and is our course director and CEO. Prior to becoming a coach, Ruth was a senior leader in education. Find out more here: https://ruthkudzi.com/ Book: How to Feel Better: 4 Steps to Self-Coach Your Way to a Happier More Authentic You eBook : Kudzi, Ruth: Amazon.co.uk: Books Connect with Ruth: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RuthKudzi Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ruthkudzi2/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthkudzi/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthkudzi/ Podcast: https://podfollow.com/the-coaching-hub-podcast About Optimus Coach Academy: Optimus offers best in class coaching training for individuals and corporates. If you want to know more about what we offer: https://optimuscoachacademy.com/coach-training We also offer business support as standard at Optimus, find out more here: https://www.optimuscoachacademy.com/ Connect with Optimus Coach Academy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Optimuscoachacademy Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimuscoachacademy/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimuscoachacademy Produced by Winter Audio.
Episode 241: Fitting Coach Training Around Full-Time Work
Is it possible to retrain as a coach without quitting your full-time job? And what does it really take to make it work? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I share the honest reality of balancing coach training with a demanding career and personal responsibilities. Drawing on my personal experience training as a coach while working full time in a senior role, and the stories of countless students who juggle work and […]
Episode 240: The Retirement Plan Nobody Talks About – Coaching
What if your retirement plan wasn’t just about stocks, shares, or pensions, but built on your relationships, wisdom, and real-world experience? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I reveal why coaching is the ultimate retirement plan nobody talks about. An increasing number of experienced professionals are turning to coaching in midlife, not only to generate flexible income but to keep a sense of purpose, well-being, and connection after […]
Episode 239: Neurodiversity Coaching: What You Really Need to Look For
How can you help clients who are neurodiverse? In this episode, I share my personal journey with ADHD to explore why recognising and embracing neurodivergence matters for both individuals and coaches. I reflect on how my experiences in education and personal development shaped my belief in a more inclusive, strengths-based approach that celebrates different ways […]
Episode 238: Why Coaching Skills are Essential for Leadership
Coaching skills have become a fundamental requirement for effective leadership – that’s the key focus of this latest podcast episode with me, Ruth Kudzi. Drawing from my background in management and leadership development, I highlight how research consistently supports the coaching style as the most effective form of leadership. Despite this, there remains a gap […]
Episode 237: What Happens When Clients Aren’t Motivated by Goals?
Coaching sessions are all about the goal, right? Not always! In this episode of The Coaching Hub Podcast, I challenge the traditional notion that coaching conversations must revolve around goals. Instead, I advocate for a more holistic, individualised coaching style that places the client’s personal growth and motivation at the centre. I explore the concepts […]
Episode 236: What Actually Happens in a Coaching Session
Ever wondered what really happens in a coaching session? In this episode, I walk you through the anatomy of a coaching session, sharing the realities, possibilities, and my unique approach as a Master Certified Coach. You’ll hear how I create the right environment for my clients, make sure sessions are tailored for both their needs […]
Episode 235: Being Brave as a Coach: How to Challenge Clients to Go Deeper
Ever wondered how to challenge your coaching clients without damaging trust or safety in the relationship? In this episode, I explore the art and necessity of being brave as a coach and why challenging clients is essential for genuine growth, and how to do it with compassion, curiosity, and connection. Drawing from my experiences as […]
Episode 234: How Do We Help Coaching Clients Make Difficult Choices?
What do you do when your coaching client is facing an impossible choice and there’s simply no perfect answer? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I share the real-life complexities of decision-making for clients, especially in emotionally-charged situations where every option has real consequences. Sharing practical wisdom from thousands of hours of coaching leaders and business owners. I’ll help you discover why holding non-judgmental space is vital, how to support clients to process their emotions and state, […]
Episode 233: How Coaching Changes the Brain: Neuroscience Explained
Ever wondered how coaching sessions actually change your brain? In this episode of The Coaching Hub, I explore the fascinating interplay between neuroscience and coaching. If you’re a coach or simply curious about how transformation happens on a neural level, this episode is packed with insight into what’s really going on in the brain during coaching and how you can use this understanding to create lasting change for your clients. […]
Episode 232: Coaching Clients Beyond Goals and Performance
Many believe that coaching is all about setting goals, but in this episode of The Coaching Hub, I turn that assumption on its head. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or pressured by rigid performance targets, you’ll love these insights on making coaching truly transformational. This episode is for coaches, aspiring practitioners, and anyone passionate about growth, self-awareness, and meaningful progress. I challenge the idea that goals always drive coaching – […]