The Coaching Podcast

What if effective learning doesn’t come from being told what to do, but from being invited to explore what’s possible? In this episode, coach developers Sarah McQuade and Linda Low explore why connection must come before learning, how skilled coaches create environments that pull learning rather than push messages, and why great facilitation can make learning feel almost effortless. From games-based learning and the coaching continuum to curiosity, challenge, belonging, self-care, and daring to dream, this conversation reminds us that the knowledge and skill behind great coaching matter – but it’s the human connection that brings learning to life.

Sarah McQuade

Sarah McQuade is the Founding Director of e.t.c. coaching consultants and an internationally respected leadership, mentoring and coach development specialist.

For more than two decades, Sarah has worked with international sport organisations, national governing bodies and leadership teams, helping them design leadership pathways, mentoring systems and learning experiences that create meaningful and lasting change. Her work spans coach development, leadership development, mentoring, organisational culture and learning design.

Sarah is particularly passionate about helping individuals and organisations translate vision, values and purpose into practical action. Known for her ability to simplify complex ideas, she creates frameworks, conversations and experiences that help people grow their confidence, capability and impact.

Linda Low

Linda Low is Programme Director for WISH (Women in Sport High-Performance Pathway), an Olympic Solidarity-funded global leadership programme designed to accelerate more women into coaching and high-performance leadership roles at the highest levels of sport.

A highly experienced leadership consultant, facilitator and programme designer, Linda has worked extensively across the international sporting landscape, supporting coaches, leaders and organisations to develop inclusive, people-centred approaches to leadership. She is passionate about creating environments where individuals can realise their potential, build confidence and develop the skills needed to lead effectively.

Linda brings a unique combination of strategic thinking, practical experience and genuine care for people, making her a trusted partner for leaders navigating growth, change and opportunity.

Together

Sarah and Linda regularly collaborate on the design and delivery of leadership, mentoring and coach development programmes across the global sport sector. Together, they bring complementary perspectives and a shared belief that leadership is less about position and more about creating environments where people can thrive.

Most recently, they have partnered on the Professional Tennis Registry's global initiative, Women Who Rally, a leadership development programme designed to support and connect women leaders across the worldwide racquet sports community. Their work together combines leadership development, mentoring, reflective practice and community-building to help individuals lead with greater confidence, authenticity and impact.

Connect with e.t.c:

Website: https://www.etccoachingconsultants.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etc_coaching_consultants/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/etcconsultants

Coach EM GEM — Start with Strengths

We often focus on what people need to improve.

What if we started with what they're already great at?

Whether you're leading across generations, departments, or personalities, one question can unlock a powerful conversation:

"What are your strengths, and how do you leverage them in the workplace?"

You might be surprised by the answers.

A younger employee may bring fresh ideas, adaptability, and digital fluency.

A more experienced team member may bring wisdom, perspective, and pattern recognition.

Different generations. Different experiences. Different strengths.

The goal isn't to make everyone the same.

The goal is to help people recognize their strengths and use them more intentionally.

When people know what they do well, confidence grows.

When teams understand each other's strengths, collaboration improves.

Start with strengths.

Build from there.

• Live inspired
• Practice improving
• Lead with Impact

In this episode, Gordon Reid shares why great coaching starts with being a great listener — listening not just with your ears, but with your eyes. We explore the power of keeping an open mind, saying “yes” to opportunities, and treating people the way they want to be treated. Gordon also shares Life Time’s culture of continuous learning, the power of “not yet,” and why almost everything is a skill that can be learned and honed over time. And when pressure rises? Break things down into manageable pieces.

About Gordon Reid

Gordon Reid is the National Tennis Director for Life Time, which owns and operates more than 190 athletic country clubs across North America. Tennis is a primary focus at 35 locations, and Gordon is based at Life Time Athletic Eden Prairie in Minnesota, a world-class facility featuring six permanent indoor hard courts, six bubbled hard courts, five Har-Tru courts, and four indoor pickleball courts.

Learn more:
lifetime.life

Coach EM Gem — Coach the Person First

One of the biggest mistakes leaders make is coaching the problem before they understand the person.

The better you understand the person in front of you, the better you can coach them.

Try asking:

• What motivates you?
• What's your why?
• What gives you a sense of purpose?
• What does success look like for you?
• How do you like to receive feedback?
• What makes you happy at work?

In sport, I often ask athletes about the books they've read, podcasts they've listened to, role models they admire, and experiences that have shaped them.

These clues reveal what they value, how they think, and what drives them.

When we take the time to understand someone's world, coaching becomes more personal, more meaningful, and more effective.

Remember:

Coach the person, not just the performance.

• Live inspired
• Practice improving
• Lead with Impact

Here is the TED talk I refer to: "Teach girls bravery, not perfection" by Reshma Saujani.

Many leaders think their job is to have the answers. Jon Purpura believes the opposite. After more than 30 years leading teams at United Airlines, Jon has discovered that great leadership is built on curiosity, confidence, and creating environments where people genuinely want to show up. In this episode, we explore the power of vulnerability, psychological safety, executive presence, and why the quality of our leadership is ultimately determined by the quality of the questions we ask. If you're looking to become a more human, collaborative, and impactful leader, you'll love this conversation.

About Jon Purpura

Jon Purpura is the Founder of Elevate Advisory, a leadership coaching and advisory firm dedicated to helping leaders unlock their full potential. Following a distinguished 30-year career with United Airlines, Jon now partners with executives and organizations to develop confident, authentic leaders who build high-performing teams and workplaces where people genuinely want to be.

Drawing on decades of leadership experience, executive coaching, and positive psychology, Jon helps leaders communicate with greater impact, lead through uncertainty, strengthen relationships, and inspire higher levels of engagement. His mission is simple: help people become the leaders they aspire to be so they can create a lasting positive impact on the people and organizations they serve.

Connect with Jon:

Website: https://elevateadvisoryinc.com
Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-purpura-4b250336/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jon.purpura.5/