Practically Coaching

About Practically Coaching

We’re Alex Carleton and Melissa Bloom, two coaches who’ve worked with hundreds of leaders and know that leadership starts with being human. In a world full of leadership books and AI advice, there’s something uniquely powerful and irreplaceable about working with a live coach who really sees you. We dig into what coaching is (and isn’t), how it can help leaders grow, and why a human-centered approach makes all the difference. Along the way, we share stories, insights, and simple techniques you can try out in your own life.

Publisher

Leadership Coaching Collective

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Oct 2025

Latest episode

27 May 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   27 May 2026

   Developing an adaptable team

   In the final episode on the VUCA framework, Alex and Melissa talk about ambiguity. Doubt and delays often occur when teams lack complete information. As individuals assess incomplete information, they naturally try to fill in the gaps. The result - team members have various interpretations that create confusion about current and future needs. Leaders can foster progress by focusing on adaptability and continuous learning at all levels of the organization. Listen for practical tips on how to set expectations, invite participation, and build feedback loops to help your team get unstuck. Resource: In this episode, we refer to Amy Edmondson’s book The Fearless Organization (https://amycedmondson.com/books/). Chapters 00:00  What do we mean by ambiguity? (the A in VUCA) 03:03  Real-World Examples of Ambiguity 05:50  The Importance of Adaptability 08:53  Creating Psychological Safety 11:58  Inviting Participation and Feedback 15:02  Responding to Setbacks 17:49  Balancing Accountability and Psychological Safety 20:58  Self-Care for Leaders Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

2. 

   12 May 2026

   Finding clarity amid complexity

   Today’s discussion focuses on complexity. In comparison to the other aspects of VUCA, complexity often stems from too much information rather than too little. You and your team may find it difficult to parse the information and identify cause-and effect-relationships. The key is to focus on the things you do know. We discuss prioritizing transparent and consistent communication that can help you and other leaders mine the knowledge that exists within your organization. We offer strategies to foster clear and concise communication, create alignment, and encourage collaboration to help your teams work effectively through unpredictable situations. We wrap-up with box breathing – a simple technique you can use to bring balance to your thoughts and energy. Whether you’re feeling tired or abuzz, box breathing can help you find an even keel. Chapters 00:00  Understanding Complexity in VUCA 02:53  Navigating Complexity with Clarity 06:10  The Importance of Communication 09:07  Reinforcing Vision and Purpose 12:02  Creating Psychological Safety 15:11  Bringing Balance to your Leadership with Box Breathing Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

3. 

   28 Apr 2026

   Meeting uncertainty with understanding

   As we continue to work through the VUCA framework, this episode focuses on uncertainty. When things are uncertain, we can react by searching for more data, more specific details, more information to help us navigate the situation. But leaders have a choice. Rather than operate in a silo, leaders can instead foster open dialogue and draw others into the conversation. One of the best ways to address uncertainty is to build understanding. Join us for a discussion of practical strategies for leading through VUCA times, including: the importance of a well-placed pause, engaging others in the discussion, and fostering collective understanding to enable decision making. We conclude with a grounding exercise you can do at your desk to help tamp down the frenetic energy of uncertainty. Chapters 00:00  Introduction to Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership 03:08  Understanding the Impact of Unpredictability 06:11  Building Collective Understanding 09:09  Fostering Open Communication 11:52  Creating a Shared Experience 14:39  Finding Grounding Objects in Uncertainty 17:49  The Power of the Pause 21:23  Embracing Human Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

4. 

   14 Apr 2026

   Leading in volatility: V in VUCA

   In this episode, we talk about leading through volatility. Volatile situations are characterized by speed and force. When a change seems to come out of nowhere, the impact can feel outsized for leaders, their teams, and their organizations. Alex and I explore ways to foster both focus and flexibility to successfully navigate the way forward. We discuss how re-focusing on purpose, adjusting timeframes, and aligning people around near-term objectives lays a foundation for adapting to volatile conditions. We also present practical techniques, including breathing exercises, to help leaders stay grounded and effective during turbulent times. Chapters 00:00 Understanding VUCA and Volatility 04:35  The Importance of Purpose in Volatile Times 11:50  Strategies for Navigating Volatility 15:33  Breathing Techniques for Leaders 17:55  Engagement and Reflection in Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

5. 

   31 Mar 2026

   Leading through uncertainty

   This episode is the first in a series focused on leading through uncertainty. Recently, we’ve been talking with many of our clients about ways to adapt their leadership to current conditions. As things become more uncertain and ambiguous, it can feel more difficult to make decisions, collaborate with peers, and provide clear guidance to your teams. Many leaders feel the need to speed up. They feel rushed to gather information and make decisions quickly. Unfortunately, this hyper-focus on speed can reduce one’s ability to gather key information, innovate and be creative, and communicate with others. In this episode, we explore THE PAUSE. While it may initially feel counterintuitive, the pause is one of the best techniques for increasing resilience during stressful and uncertain times. We offer practical techniques like the psychological sigh and using images to help leaders and individuals manage anxiety and foster a calm, thoughtful approach.

6. 

   17 Mar 2026

   Learnings from our guest leaders

   Melissa and Alex reflect on their conversations with recent guests - Laura Peterson, Sue Sleigh, and Katie Redford - and offer listeners a summary of tools and techniques they can use in their own lives. Their conversations spanned various aspects of leadership, sustainability, and collaboration in nonprofit and social justice work. Each of these women shared insights on maintaining passion, humility, and strategic agility in mission-driven organizations. And they offered practical strategies for managing stress, fostering teamwork, and driving impact in volatile environments. Chapters 00:00  Intro to Key Takeaways from Inspirational Conversations 03:04  Leading Through Uncertainty and Gaining Alignment 05:53 The Importance of Passion and Purpose in Leadership 08:17  Sustainable Leadership: Balancing Head, Heart, and Hands 11:06  Shifting Perspectives: Humility and Short-Term Planning 13:57  Collaboration and Empowerment in Leadership 17:11  Navigating VUCA: Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity 19:53  Technology's Role in Leadership and Meaningful Data 22:44  Final Thoughts and Future Directions 29:37  Embracing Human Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

7. 

   3 Mar 2026

   Leading with our heads, hearts & hands

   Melissa Bloom and Alex Carleton welcome Katie Redford, a social justice leader, to discuss the importance of authenticity in leadership. They explore how passion drives leaders, the role of emotions in decision-making, and the significance of community support in sustainable leadership. Katie shares her journey in fighting corporate power, particularly in the fossil fuel industry, and emphasizes the need for collective action rooted in love and joy. The conversation highlights the challenges of activism while encouraging listeners to find their inner fire and connect with others who share their passions. Chapters 00:00  Introduction to Katie Redford 02:08  Katie's Journey in Social Justice 06:54  The Power of Passion in Leadership 10:51  Unlearning Legal Training for Social Justice 16:51  Sustainable Leadership and Community Support 23:02  The Head, Heart, and Hands of Activism 27:59  The Role of Community in Movements 34:26  Joy as a Source of Power in Activism 41:05  Embracing Human Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

8. 

   17 Feb 2026

   Living and leading with one's values

   Melissa and Alex continue their conversation with Sue Sleigh about the nuances of leadership in the nonprofit sector. They explore the motivations behind nonprofit leadership, the importance of setting boundaries, empowering teams, and the role of values in guiding decisions. The discussion emphasizes the significance of creating a culture of feedback and the impact of living one's values as a leader. Chapters 00:00  The Call to Nonprofit Leadership 03:50  Navigating Boundaries in Leadership 06:52  Empowering Teams Through Trust 09:28  The Role of Values in Leadership 12:26  Hiring for Success 15:28  Creating a Culture of Feedback 17:49  Living Your Values as a Leader 21:17  Reflection in Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

9. 

   3 Feb 2026

   Humility and collaboration in leadership

   In the 2nd episode of our interview series, we welcome Sue Sleigh, a leader in nonprofit healthcare. Sue talks with us about the importance of authentic leadership in challenging times. We explore themes such as the burden of care on frontline workers, the necessity of collaboration, and the role of humility in leadership. Sue shares insights on balancing efficiency with humanity, engaging stakeholders in change, and the significance of self-care for leaders. We dig into the somatic experience of leadership and the need for leaders to stay connected to their teams and the communities they serve. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sue Sleigh and Her Leadership Journey 3:12 Understanding the Burden of Frontline Workers 5:55 The Importance of Collaboration in Nonprofit Leadership 8:36 Encouraging Humility and Grounded Leadership 11:23 Balancing Efficiency and Human Connection 14:09 Navigating Change and Managing Expectations 17:03 The Role of Physical Awareness in Leadership 19:48 Re-centering and Self-Care for Leaders 27:35 Embracing Human Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

10. 

    27 Jan 2026

    Authenticity and impact in leadership

    In this episode, we welcome Laura Peterson, a seasoned leader in the nonprofit sector. Laura joins us to discuss the evolution of leadership over the last few years. Laura shares insights on the need for adaptability, collaboration, and humility among leaders, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing team well-being and sustainability. The conversation explores the challenges faced by nonprofit leaders today and the necessity of shifting from a lone hero model to a more distributed and collaborative approach to leadership. Chapters 00:00  Introducing Laura Peterson 02:23  Navigating Change in Nonprofits Post-COVID 08:21  The Importance of Collaboration and Technology 16:42  Sustainability and Care for Teams 24:32  The Shift from Lone Hero Leadership to Collaboration 25:52  Emphasizing Human Leadership Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

11. 

    20 Jan 2026

    Authenticity in leadership: Intro to our interview series

    This episode is the first in a series featuring discussions with leaders from nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. We invited 3 people to talk with us about how they're adapting their approach and what they’re prioritizing right now. Our intention was to provide a platform for open and honest discussion. We invited our guests to share their experiences and insights freely, and they wowed us with their authentic approaches to their work and leading others. They highlighted the significance of humility and the embodiment of leadership, encouraging others to reflect on their own experiences and the weight of their responsibilities. The episode sets the stage for upcoming conversations that promise to inspire and resonate with our listeners. Chapters 00:00  Introduction to our Interview Series 02:51  The Importance of Guest Perspectives 09:38  Introducing our 3 Amazing Guests 13:56  A Sampling of Themes and Insights from the Conversations 19:16  Reflecting on Personal and Professional Challenges 21:18  Embracing Human Leadership 21:40 Listener Challenge Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

12. 

    6 Jan 2026

    Exploring the differences between coaching and training

    People who are new to coaching often wonder what to expect. Almost everyone has participated in some type of professional training and many think coaching will be similar; however, the 2 are quite different. In this episode, we explore the fundamental differences between coaching and training. We discuss the dynamics of each environment, emphasizing the interactive nature of coaching compared to the more structured approach of training. The conversation highlights the importance of active listening, the role of the coach, and the effectiveness of coaching over time, particularly in group settings. We encourage listeners to bring their experiences into the coaching process to foster a more personalized and impactful development journey. Chapters 00:00  Demystifying Coaching vs. Training 06:17  The Role of Experience in Coaching 12:40  Iterative Learning in Coaching 15:55  Embracing Human Leadership 16:19  Engaging with Our Audience Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

13. 

    18 Dec 2025

    The power of community in leadership development

    In this episode, Melissa Bloom and Alex Carleton discuss one of their favorite ways of working with people - - group coaching. They explore its structure, benefits, and the unique community it fosters among participants. They share personal experiences and insights on how group coaching can support individual leadership development while emphasizing the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment. The conversation highlights the value of group coaching for organizations, making it a sustainable investment in leadership development. Chapters 00:00  Introduction to Group Coaching 03:31  Understanding Individual Goals in Group Settings 06:12  The Power of Shared Experiences 09:11  Creating a Safe Space for Growth 12:01  The Role of Leadership in Group Coaching 14:52  Benefits of Group Coaching for Organizations 17:56  Finding and Joining Group Coaching Programs Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

14. 

    4 Dec 2025

    Unlocking team potential through coaching

    In this episode, Melissa and Alex discuss team coaching - - how it can foster team collaboration, performance, and the achievement of shared goals. They explore team dynamics, the role of questions in coaching, and the significance of defining clear goals and expectations. The conversation highlights several benefits of team coaching, including fostering trust, clarity, and adaptability within teams, and provides insights on when organizations should consider seeking coaching support. Chapters 00:00 What is team coaching? 03:48 Exploring Team Functionality and Goals 06:36 The Role of Questions in Coaching 09:40 Defining Success Criteria for Teams 12:34 Creating Clarity and Alignment 15:18 Benefits of Team Coaching 18:13 Identifying When to Seek Coaching 21:05 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities 26:01 Embracing Human Leadership 26:24 When and How to Engage A Coach Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

15. 

    20 Nov 2025

    Why do we feel successful and discontent at the same time?

    In this episode of Practically Coaching, Melissa and Alex delve into the complexities of expectations in leadership, exploring the balance between external feedback and internal motivation. They discuss the importance of aligning personal values with professional roles, the role of mentorship in navigating career challenges, and the significance of self-reflection in achieving authentic leadership. Through Alex's personal experiences, they highlight the journey of overcoming doubts and fears, fostering collaboration, and creating a fulfilling work environment. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Expectations: Birthday Parties and Professional Lives 03:41 The Dichotomy of Success: Recognition vs. Satisfaction 06:11 Personal Stories: When Success Feels Wrong 09:06 The Crossroads: Doubt and Decision-Making 11:52 The Role of Mentorship in Professional Growth 14:47 Finding Your Values: The Compass of Leadership 17:31 The Importance of Alignment: Personal Values and Professional Goals 20:50 The Shift: From External Validation to Internal Fulfillment 23:32 Conclusion: The Journey of Self-Discovery in Professional Life Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

16. 

    6 Nov 2025

    Are you ready for coaching?

    In this episode, Alex and Melissa explore the idea of readiness for coaching and ask if anyone can feel 100% ready. They dig into the recipe for success - - discussing the importance of curiosity, the desire for change, and the role of uncertainty in the coaching process. The conversation highlights that coaching is not just for those in crisis, but is also an amazing tool for personal growth and development. Ultimately, they conclude that having a question or curiosity about one's path is a key indicator of being ready for coaching. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage 02:50 Understanding Readiness for Coaching 05:45 Curiosity as a Key Ingredient 08:34 The Spark for Change 11:44 Navigating Uncertainty in Coaching 14:33 Exploring Goals and Motivation 17:27 Final Thoughts on Coaching Readiness Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

17. 

    23 Oct 2025

    How personal values motivate us

    In this episode, Melissa and Alex discuss how their personal values of authenticity, community, and generosity shaped this podcast and impact their work as coaches. They explore their goals for the podcast, the significance of sharing experiences, and the nature of coaching conversations. The discussion highlights their desire to create a space for connection and personal growth, while also reflecting on the challenges and rewards of the podcasting journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast Journey 2:50 Goals and Aspirations for the Podcast 5:52 The Importance of Community and Sharing 8:57 Generosity and Authenticity in Coaching 11:20 Navigating Personal and Professional Goals 14:31 The Ripple Effect of Coaching 17:25 The Nature of Coaching Conversations 20:22 Conclusion and Future Intentions Get In Touch We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have a suggestion for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

18. 

    7 Oct 2025

    What's this podcast about and why you should listen

    In this episode, Alex and Melissa explore the purpose behind their podcast, focusing on the value of coaching and how it can help individuals navigate their personal and professional lives. They discuss the importance of self-reflection, noticing changes, and the practical strategies that can be applied in everyday life. The hosts emphasize the significance of community and shared experiences in the coaching process, aiming to create a supportive environment for listeners. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 2:04 The Value of Coaching and Why Listen 5:07 Understanding the Coaching Process 8:05 Practical Strategies for Everyday Life 11:01 Creating a Supportive Community 14:14 Embracing the Journey of Growth 18:56 Embracing Human Leadership 19:19 Engaging with Our Audience Reach Out We love to hear from you! Whether you'd like to learn more about coaching or have an idea for a future episode of our podcast, reach out to info@leadershipcoachingcollective.com. Thanks to Brad MacKenzie for the music.

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