Listen "EP22: Coaching For Inclusion"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of FARSIGHT Chats, host Farah Bala, founder and CEO of FARSIGHT, discusses the critical aspects of inclusive coaching with three expert leadership coaches: Dr. Towanna Burrous, Carolyn Chan, and Dr. Victor McGuire. They explore foundational principles of leadership, the significance of executive coaching for inclusion, and the importance of proper coaching certifications. The conversation delves into the necessity of diverse representation in coaching, methodologies, and the coach approach versus mentoring. The impact of cultural, behavioral, and personality assessments and the importance of adapting these tools for more diverse contexts is emphasized. The nuanced differences between coaching and other advisory roles, the importance of rigorous coaching training, the challenges and opportunities in integrating AI into coaching, and the critical role of inclusion in fostering innovative and effective leadership are all packed into this conversation. This episode is for aspiring and practicing coaches, as well as those looking to leverage coaching for personal and professional growth.| KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED |Coaching EssentialsCoaching is transformational, forward-looking, and different from mentoring or therapy.Certification builds credibility, skill, and trust.Leaders benefit from using a coach-like approach to foster accountability and growth.Coaching for InclusionInclusion coaching supports diversity, innovation, engagement, and better decision-making.Focus on both visible and invisible diversity (e.g., culture, values, thinking styles).Leaders often include selectively; inclusion must become consistent and intentional.Organizational ImpactInclusive coaching boosts retention, performance, and leadership pipelines.Lack of inclusive leadership leads to lost talent and organizational stagnation.Assessments in CoachingAssessments are useful starting points, not definitive.Coaches must interpret through a DEI lens and focus on behavioral tools over personality-based ones.Coaching Industry ChallengesThe field is still predominantly white and male.Programs like Coach Diversity Institute and Coaching for Everyone aim to diversify coaching and increase access.Certification TipsChoose programs based on:RigorAlignment with DEI goalsReal-world coaching practiceAI & CoachingAI is a tool, not a replacement.Use AI for pre/post coaching support while staying mindful of bias and representation.| SHOW NOTES | 00:00 Introduction to FARSIGHT Chats02:51 Meet the Expert Coaches04:20 Understanding the Coach Approach06:31 The Importance of Certification11:40 Coaching for Inclusion27:28 The Role of Assessments in Coaching33:42 The Role of Authenticity in Coaching35:54 Challenges in the Coaching Industry36:54 Addressing Diversity Gaps in Coaching43:18 Global Perspectives on Coaching46:49 Choosing the Right Coaching Certification53:20 The Impact of AI on Coaching01:01:54 Concluding Thoughts and Future Directions| WORKS CITED |Assessments (Behavioral & Personality)MBTIStandOut Assessment
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