Listen "(Episode 121) Coaching in Academia – Part 2 – Real Stories, Real Impact"
Episode Synopsis
📋 Content Note In this episode, we explore the practice of coaching in academia, including how it can support leadership, career development, and wellbeing. The conversation touches on emotionally sensitive topics such as personal and professional transitions, experiences of low confidence, navigating vulnerability, neurodiversity, and challenges related to academic culture and job security. While these topics are discussed in a supportive and professional context, we acknowledge that some listeners may find aspects of the discussion personally resonant or emotionally impactful. If any issues raised concern you, please look after yourself and seek support if you need it. Resources and support links are available in the show notes.In this episode of Research Culture Uncovered, host Dr. Heledd Jarosz-Griffiths is joined by three brilliant guests for Part 2 of our two-part special exploring coaching in academia. Heledd is joined by:Harriet Boatwright — Organisational Learning Partner and Co-lead of the University of Leeds internal coaching poolDr. Caterina Presi — Associate Professor of Marketing Practice at Leeds, University Business SchoolDr. Andreea Bordianu — Lecturer in Accounting at Leeds University Business SchoolTogether, they share powerful personal stories and reflections on how coaching works in practice, the challenges it helps address, and how it’s contributing to positive changes in research culture, leadership, and personal growth.Key Takeaways🌟 Why They Chose Coaching Harriet, Caterina, and Andreea share their diverse journeys into coaching, from transformative personal experiences to professional development opportunities.🎯 Real Challenges in Academia Common coaching topics include career transitions, confidence, communication skills, navigating uncertainty, and managing change.🧠 Supporting Neurodiversity The guests discuss how coaching can support neurodivergent colleagues by adapting approaches and creating safe, individualised spaces for reflection.🔄 Growth for Coaches Being coaches has transformed how the guests listen, ask questions, and build meaningful relationships — impacting their teaching, leadership, and personal interactions.✨ Transforming Research Culture Coaching is highlighted as a tool for shifting power dynamics, fostering empathy, and nurturing a healthier, more connected academic culture.💡 Client Impact The episode includes anonymised feedback showing how coaching helps people gain clarity, build resilience, and discover new paths forward.🧘♀️ Looking After Coaches The discussion also covers coach wellbeing, boundaries, and the critical role of supervision in maintaining ethical, sustainable coaching practice.🎧 Want to understand the fundamentals of coaching before diving into real stories? Checkout Part 1:🎙️ Coaching in Academia — Part 1: What is Coaching and Why Does it Matter?Resources and SupportNeurodiversity Explained — Oxford CBTCoaching at the University of LeedsMind UK — Mental Health Support
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