Arete Coach: The Art & Science of Executive Coaching (Arete Coach Podcast)

This is episode 1043 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Tony Martignetti.

In this episode, I speak with Tony Martignetti who is an executive coach, author, and founder of Inspired Purpose Coaching. Tony has an MBA from Northeastern University as well as his PCC (professional certified coach) from the International Coaching Federation. A theme that was consistent throughout this interview was Tony's view of coaching that the "obstacle is the path."

Tony started his career journey to executive coaching through his early career as a financial strategist with several large companies including Procter and Gamble, Genzyme, Vertex, and Momenta Pharmaceuticals. He also has experience in running small businesses, including his own financial consulting organization, LifeSci. In 2018, Tony entered the executive coaching industry as the founder and chief inspiration officer of Inspired Purpose Coaching. Through his coaching organization, Tony works “with leaders and their teams to navigate through change and unlock their true potential.”

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on September 17, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In this episode of the Arete Coach Podcast, host Severin Sorensen interviews Jack Gelman, CEO of Gelman Associates LLC, revealing profound insights into leadership, coaching, and personal transformation. Recorded on June 18, 2024, Jack shares his extensive experience navigating the business world, including pivotal roles such as Anderson Partner and President & CEO of Alternity Wind Power LLC. Listeners will gain valuable lessons on achieving balance, fostering humility, and cultivating resilience, all of which are essential for both personal and professional growth. The episode, titled "Jack Gelman: Beyond Success - Living a Life of Importance," underscores the shift from achieving success to finding significance.

Jack delves into his journey from a high-powered executive to a respected coach and mentor, highlighting the transformative impact of the New Warrior Training Adventure. This experience helped him find balance in his life and ignited his passion for coaching. He also recounts his foundational experiences at Procter & Gamble and General Mills, which provided a solid grounding in marketing, sales, and business commercialization. These early career roles set the stage for his later success in turning around and growing companies like CrossPin, Nashua, and Rust-Oleum.

The episode also explores Jack's time in the military as a Naval Aviator and Assistant Professor of Naval Science, where he learned critical lessons in humility and leadership. He discusses the collapse of Arthur Andersen and the importance of having a backup plan, emphasizing resilience and adaptability in the face of unforeseen challenges. These experiences have profoundly shaped his approach to coaching and mentoring, allowing him to guide others through similar transitions and transformations.

Throughout the conversation, Jack shares key insights and practical advice, underscoring the value of listening, patience, and living a life of significance. Inspired by Raphael Pastor’s idea of transitioning from a life of success to a life of importance, Jack emphasizes the impact of meaningful work that positively affects others. This episode, "Jack Gelman: Beyond Success - Living a Life of Importance," is a treasure trove of wisdom for executives, coaches, and anyone striving for excellence in their professional and personal lives.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on June 18, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1,120 of the Arete Coach Podcast, where your host, Severin Sorensen, engages in a fascinating conversation with executive coach Bridget Wenman, from Wisconsin. Bridget is an executive coach, Vistage chair, business consultant, and president of Prospectives Training. Bridget has a thriving Vistage practice with four peer executive groups (3 CE and 1 Key). Bridget is also the Best Practice Chair for Vistage in her region.

In this episode, titled "More Grace, Less Grief," we dive into Bridget's coaching journey map, and discover the life curriculum that has made her a great coach today. We learn about her upbringing being the youngest of 16 children, to her entrepreneurial nature, and desire to help others. Some lessons learned from her work in the commercial staffing and training industry. And more about her coaching practice and powerful questions she asks her coaching clients.

Throughout the conversation, we explore what it means to be a coach, how listening is so important, and some examples of lifetime learning. we talk about applying Matthew Kelly's Dream Manager concept to your employees and helping them achieve their dreams. And we end with thoughts and early lessons learned on using ChatGPT in your coaching activities.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 28 February 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1,119 of the Arete Coach Podcast, where your host, Severin Sorensen, engages in a captivating conversation with our distinguished guest, Robin Hills, hailing from the UK. Robin is a renowned executive coach, business psychologist, and emotional intelligence expert, serving as the principal at EI4Change.com. EI for Change is a company dedicated to educational training, coaching, and personal development, with a focus on emotional intelligence, positive psychology, and neuroscience.

In this insightful episode, aptly titled "Do It, With Emotional Intelligence," we delve into the critical aspects of emotional intelligence and positive psychology, emphasizing the significance of EQ in our lives. We examine the brain's functions and their intricate connection to the body; as Robin astutely points out, "we are not brains on sticks." This episode covers essential topics such as mindfulness and introduces various coaching exercises to enhance emotional intelligence, positivity, and overall capability.

Throughout the conversation, we uncover Robin's fascinating journey from a background in biology and science to an insatiable curiosity and pursuit of emotional intelligence, particularly in the realm of evidence-based EQ practices. This delightful and informative session was allowed to unfold organically, ensuring no valuable insights were left behind on the cutting room floor. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this enriching exploration of emotional intelligence.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 23 February 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1037 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Conor Neill.

In this episode, Conor Neill talks about his journey as an entrepreneur, EO Chapter President, Sr. Lecturer at IESE Business School, and President of Vistage Spain. Above all things, Conor is a master storyteller who is gifted in telling a story in such a way that it stimulates action in others. In this episode, Conor shares several of his business and life stories that call attention to specific aspects or truths of life and business. Conor got his start in the consulting field working for Accenture in London. Thereafter he was CEO of five companies, including TaxiJet in Spain. Conor's passions extend online where he has a Youtube channel with over 257,000 subscribers where he publishes a weekly video on a business or life topic. One of Conor's videos, 'how to start a speech' has over 14 million views.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on May, 10, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1,118 of the Arete Coach Podcast, where your host, Severin Sorensen, is joined by esteemed guest Peter Michaels. Peter is an accomplished Executive Coach, former Vistage Chair, Commercial Banker, and Mergers and Acquisitions expert. He currently holds the position of President at Shadow River Corporation.

In this timely episode, titled "Anticipate: Insights from an Executive Coach, Banker, & M&A Specialist," we dive into the pressing events of March 2023, including the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, and the unfolding banking crisis. As a seasoned commercial banker with 20 years of experience and a former top executive at one of the largest independent regional banks in the US, Peter shares his invaluable insights on the nature of money, its implications, and what it isn't.

The conversation shifts towards what executive coaches, business owners, entrepreneurs, and CEOs should be doing to prepare for the financial crisis, including accumulating cash and convertible treasuries. We also explore the possible actions banks may take to protect their assets, such as clawing back credit lines, tightening credit availability, and the subsequent impact of money tightening on the economy.

As we delve deeper into Peter's life, we journey through his impressive career spanning three industries: 20 years in commercial banking, a decade in M&A in Southern California, and over two decades of executive coaching as a Vistage Chair or independent coach. Throughout the interview, Peter shares a crucial lesson he learned from a mentor: "Anticipate." We discuss the significance of this word from various angles, reflecting on its profound implications.

Please note that this podcast episode, its transcript, and any future insights articles derived from its content do not constitute financial advice. We are not your accountants or advisors. Consult with your own financial professionals before making any decisions. Our discussion is simply an exploration of the current economic landscape and its potential impact on business owners, entrepreneurs, CEOs, key executives, and the executive coaches who serve them.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 14 March 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1,123 of the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen and featuring special guest Jim Handy, a seasoned executive coach, mentor, business advisor, trainer, and former president and co-owner of TEC Wisconsin. Jim played a pivotal role in shaping the organization that later evolved into TEC-Vistage.

With a successful track record of launching and managing two businesses and a consulting practice specializing in strategic planning, organizational growth, and family business succession, Jim shares his wealth of experience with us.

In this engaging episode, we discuss the early days of TEC, including Jim's experiences with founder Bob Nourse. We explore the roles of a TEC Chair and group facilitator. We delve into the power of peer groups and Jim's first venture as a paperboy, where he learned the value of hiring others for tasks worth doing. We also touch on the past and future of business and the transformative potential of AI.

Join us for a fun, authentic, and thought-provoking conversation with a TEC-Vistage pioneer. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this insightful episode.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 9 March 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1,115 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest Meena Kumari Adnani. She's an executive coach, self-empowerment, and business coach for women. Meena is also a qualified solicitor in the UK and a qualified attorney in New York. She has been dubbed the Top Negotiator by Global Asia Magazine, and she also serves clients as an international speaker and CEO of Strong and Shine.

Meena lives in Jakarta, Indonesia. From an early age Menna has been a norm buster. Menna earned her law degree from the University of London and is licensed to practice law in the UK and New York. For many years, Menna climbed the corporate lawyer as a high-performing lawyer until one day... everything she had been working for and saving was lost. And this sudden loss and the loss of losing her father to Covid19 changed her life.

After working through her her own journey in the stages of grief, she reframed, rebuilt, and restored her former station and decided to transform her life mission to help other people, especially women to be more empowered. Meena is a lifetime learner and shares her thoughts, reading, and wonderment on how to help women overcome their fears and be more empowered. Throughout or conversation Meena teach us '"that setbacks are an invitation for a comeback."

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on 24 January 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1156 of the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen, where we dive deeper into AI linguistics by dropping into a zoom session with Chairs and Executive Coaches exploring gSeverin's latest book, "The AI Whisperer Wizard Words: ChatGPT Semantic Tokens, Keywords, and Phrases for Business."

The podcast episode from the Arete Coach Podcast, titled "Wizard Words Wisdom", delves into the use of AI in business, mainly focusing on the effective use of ChatGPT. The host, Severin Sorensen, shares insights from his book "AI Whisperer Wizard Words," which explores how to craft better prompts for AI to achieve more insightful and valuable responses. The episode emphasizes the transformational impact of AI on business practices, such as writing, productivity, and decision-making, demonstrating its potential through practical examples and discussions with Vistage chairs.

Significant topics covered in the podcast include:

The impact of ChatGPT and AI on business and productivity.

The concept of "wizard words" and advanced semantic prompting in AI interactions.

The relationship between precise language in prompts and AI response quality.

The rapid development and evolution of AI tools and their business applications.

Strategies for leveraging AI in writing, including book publishing.

The role of AI in enhancing professional and creative endeavors.

Ethical considerations and responsible use of AI.

The importance of human-AI collaboration for better outcomes.

The potential of AI in various business sectors, including coaching and executive training.

The future trajectory of AI and its implications for businesses and professionals.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on November 21, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1070 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Phil Johnson. Phil comes to us from Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. He is an executive coach, trainer, international speaker, leadership and emotional intelligence advisor, and creator of the Master of Business Leadership Program and podcast.

On the podcast, Phil talks about overcoming challenges and the need for emotional intelligence. Phil helps leaders develop their emotional intelligence and leadership skills. Phil also runs the MBL Youtube channel and co-hosts the MBL podcast. Phil has also been an executive coach since 2007. Phil has published several books such as the MBL Success Map, MBL Tribal Wisdom, The Servant Warrior Leader, and The New Economic Currency.. Discover more on these topics are at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on January 3, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, titled, "The Mindshare Multiplier, Empowering Coaches with AI Sidekicks," Severin explores the cutting-edge intersection of AI and executive coaching. As an early adopter and experimenter with over 20 AI models, including OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Anthropic Claude, and Microsoft Copilot, Severin brings a wealth of practical experience to this discussion. His expertise is further highlighted by his authorship of the AI Whisperer book series, demonstrating his commitment to understanding and leveraging AI in professional coaching contexts.

In this insightful episode, Severin shares his journey of integrating AI tools into coaching practices, focusing particularly on Google's Notebook LM. He explores how this powerful tool can serve as a centralized knowledge repository, enhance client understanding, streamline session preparation, and even assist in developing new coaching materials. Severin's approach goes beyond mere technological fascination, emphasizing the responsible and ethical use of AI in coaching, particularly concerning data privacy and security. His exploration of these tools aligns perfectly with the Arete Coach Podcast's mission of examining excellence in the art and science of executive coaching, offering a forward-looking perspective on how AI can augment and elevate coaching practices.

In this episode, Severin Sorensen illuminates the transformative potential of AI in executive coaching. He emphasizes that tools like Google's Notebook LM are not meant to replace human coaches but to enhance their capabilities. By leveraging AI for tasks such as organizing vast amounts of information, identifying patterns in client data, and generating tailored session plans, coaches can focus more on what truly matters: the human connection and insight-driven guidance.

Severin's exploration of AI in coaching goes beyond mere technological fascination. He underscores the critical importance of ethical considerations, particularly in terms of data privacy and security. As coaches integrate these powerful tools into their practices, Severin stresses the need for a balanced approach that maintains the trust and confidentiality that are fundamental to the coaching relationship. This thoughtful integration of AI ensures that technology serves to augment, rather than diminish, the human element of coaching.

Looking to the future, Severin envisions a coaching landscape where AI and human expertise work in symbiosis. He encourages coaches to embrace these innovations thoughtfully, always keeping the best interests of their clients at the forefront. By doing so, coaches can lead the way in shaping a future where AI amplifies their skills, allowing for deeper insights, more personalized coaching experiences, and ultimately, more impactful outcomes for their clients. This forward-thinking approach positions executive coaches to not only adapt to technological advancements but to thrive in an AI-enhanced coaching environment.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded via Zoom on October 5, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1087 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Christopher Avery, PhD, who lives in Austin, Texas. Christopher is a CEO, author, mentor, and speaker. He is the CEO and founder of the Responsibility Company with a fashionable website, Responsibility.com. He teaches personal responsibility and the paradigm of owning it, where you are either above or below the line, and he teaches individuals and organizations how to get above the line. He supports evolving leaders, coaches, and leadership teams who want to be wise faster, and intend to lead themselves and others to results that matter. Christopher has published two books. One called "Teamwork is an Individual Skill" and "The Responsibility Process." Much of his early professional work involved working with IT teams implementing Agile processes.

In the interview, we explore Christopher's journey from IT management consulting to executive coaching and responsibility mentoring. We also explore the difference between coping it and owning it. We discuss how personal responsibility means "Owning your ability and power to create, choose, and attract." We explore what it means to be above or below the line. And we talk about the harmful states of denial, blame, justification, shame, quitting, and obligation which are traits that keep one from being truly accountable.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on June 29 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

The 60 Best Executive Coaching Podcasts to Follow in 2024.

Join us for this special edition of the Arete Coach Podcast as we unveil our meticulously researched ranking of the 60 most impactful executive coaching podcasts for 2024. This comprehensive guide represents countless hours of analysis, combining rigorous methodology with direct listener feedback to identify the most valuable resources in the coaching community.

The top 10 showcases the incredible depth and diversity of executive coaching content available today. Leading the pack is Dave Stachowiak's "Coaching for Leaders," renowned for its practical leadership insights and actionable advice, followed by Tom Henschel's "The Look and Sound of Leadership," which masterfully explores executive presence and communication. The Arete Coach Podcast claims the third spot for its deep exploration of coaching methodology, while Dr. Katrina Burrus's "Excellent Executive Coaching" and "HBR's Coaching Real Leaders" round out the top five with their unique blend of business acumen and coaching expertise. The remaining top spots feature powerhouse programs including Jocko Willink's no-nonsense leadership advice, Guy Raz's inspirational "How I Built This," HBR's cutting-edge "IdeaCast," the transformative "Coaches Rising," and the research-driven "Coaching Psychology Pod."

Our selection criteria included content excellence, audience engagement, and alignment with ICF and EMCC coaching standards. Of the 60 podcasts featured in 2023, 38 return this year, demonstrating both consistency in excellence and the emergence of fresh perspectives.

Highlights include:

• Detailed analysis of each podcast's unique contribution to the field
• Key metrics including episode counts, listener ratings, and engagement scores
• Special focus on evidence-based practices and research-backed coaching approaches
• Expert insights into why each podcast earned its ranking

Beyond the rankings, this episode offers listeners a comprehensive look at the methodology behind the selections, including detailed metrics like listener engagement scores, Apple Podcast ratings, and episode counts for each show. We dive into what makes each podcast special, from their unique approaches to their target audiences, and even explore emerging trends in the coaching podcast landscape. The episode also includes special mentions of new promising shows and pays tribute to notable podcasts that have concluded their runs, providing a complete picture of the executive coaching podcast ecosystem in 2024.

Whether you're a seasoned executive coach, business leader, or passionate about leadership development, this guide offers a roadmap to the very best resources in executive coaching for the year ahead.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on December 2, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1048 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, and we explore 'Knowing Your Kenny Rogers Line." Knowing when to hold em, and when to fold em is important in gambling, and in life and business.

This episode explores the ballad of Kenny Rogers' The Gambler and lessons we can learn that apply to our times. We look at emergent inflation its impact on asset prices and the economy impacting ones decision-making. Explored in this episode are examples of decision-making under uncertainty for real estate and business sales. Severin, CEO of EPRAXIS LLC, shares examples from his own business and personal experiences. A cameo appearance from Bill Clark, executive coach, on a painful experience (from AC Episode 1004) where he learned more about reading a market and perseverance.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on November 15, 2021.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1078 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Brent O'Bannon, MCC, who is an executive coach, CEO of Strengths Champion Solutions Workplace Training and Executive Coaching, ICF Master Certified Coach, Certified Strengths Coach, executive coach, keynote speaker, best-selling author, and human potential expert. 

Brent O’Bannon is the 1st ever Gallup Certified Strengths Coach. Through his expertise as an executive coach and a human potential expert, Brent helps businesses, leaders, teams, and organizations achieve excellence. Brent’s vision is to “Champion Strengths for Global Excellence by training 10,000 Strengths Champion Certified Coaches.” Brent has facilitated more than 27,000 one-to-one coaching sessions and spoken more than 700 times to over 350 organizations. Brent has been coaching for over 28 years and he uses his background as a Licensed Professional Counselor, EAP Consultant, MCC, his MBS in Counseling Psychology, and Gallup Strengths Coach Certification as a source of wisdom and insight to help his clients grow stronger, work smarter, and live richer. In 2014, Brent’s book “Selling Strengths: A Little Book for Executives and Life Coaches About Using Your Strengths to Get Paying Clients” was ranked #1 on Amazon in Entrepreneurship and Mentoring and Coaching.

In this episode we explore Brent's roots as a coach, moving from ministry to counseling, to coaching. Learn about his experiences. Share in his hardships. Gain wisdom from his strengths and insights.

Learn more about coaching excellence, coaching strengths, and other coaching topics at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on January 27, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Strengthspreneur" ® is a registered mark of Brent O'Bannon; learn more at brentobannon.com.

This is episode 1,112 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen with another episode that explores the art and science of executive coaching. In this episode, we explore the power of peers and professionally facilitated peer executive groups, and in particular, we deep dive into the Vistage model as it celebrates its 65th year anniversary.

In addition to reviewing the historical research on the environment that cultivated TEC-Vistage, the founding of the company and its early history, this episode includes remarks and input from dozens of Vistage chairs and stakeholders passed and present.

In this episode, we explore the important role of the ancient vizier, advisor, privy councils and their parallels to the modern Chair role played in professionally facilitated executive peer groups. In a Vistage Group, a Chair is an executive coach, who is at times a coach, mentor, and facilitator of the peer executive group.

Vistage differentiates itself from other business focused self-help groups by providing professional facilitation by an executive coach called the Chair, who has had significant prior business experience and deep training in coaching skills and executive peer group facilitation. The Vistage Chair role is to facilitate the peer group discussions, asking questions to draw out the expertise of the group members experiences and ideas, and periodically provide expert advice and guidance to the members when asked, while fostering a culture of trust, confidentiality, and open communication among the members.

The goal of the chair in this model is to help members gain new perspectives, solve problems, and make better decisions by sharing their experiences and learning from one another. This and much more is explored in this episode of the Arete Coach Podcast.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This session was recorded on January 28th, 2023 via Zoom video. This session also includes dozens of interview callouts from current and former Vistage chairs and stakeholders from Arete Coach podcast recorded since April of 2020.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1,114 of the Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen, which explores AI, Automation, and the Innovation Imperative. It has been 60 days since our first episode [1,1104] on AI and ChatGPT, which was published on 12/12/22.

The world has changed. And the change is accelerating. In this episode, we explore AI, automation, and the innovation imperative. We look at the growth of AI, and review a book titled 'AI and Prediction.' We explore tight labor conditions and the logical imperative that under the absence of available workers, businesses should seek to reduce labor in every SKU, product, and service. AI and Automation are viewed as means to augment and leverage existing talent. In the podcast, we interview 3 individuals from different age cohorts to explore how they use ChatGPT in their personal and work lives. The episode has dozens of hacks, tips, and suggestions for leveraging the listener's ability to use conversational AI.

Special guests on this podcast episode include: Cait Pickens, Hayden Browing, and Ozzie Gontang.

This episode is a follow-up to Arete Coach Podcast Episode 1104, that explores OpenAI's ChatGPT Chat App along with "10 Technologies That Changed The World, and the Next 10 Technologies Likely To Change it Again.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on February 20, 2023 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1100 representing the "100th" episode of the Arete Coach Podcast with guest host Ozzie Gontang, PhD, and his guest Severin Sorensen, MPhil, the curator and host of AreteCoach.io and the Arete Coach Podcast, and CEO of ePraxis, a premier-level executive recruiting, talent selection, and executive coaching company.

Severin Sorensen is a serial entrepreneur and lifetime learner with a passionate curiosity for people and businesses. Severin is the CEO of ePraxis LLC, a premier-level retained search firm that provides executive headhunting, talent selection, and executive coaching. In addition to finding top talent, Severin has provided over 8,000+ hours of paid executive coaching to entrepreneurs, CEOs, Presidents, and C-level executives. Severin is an ICF ACSTH Certified Executive Coach, Certified Organizational Development Coach, Certified Life Coach, Certified Positive Intelligence® Coach, and Certified Leadership Circle Profile Coach. Severin is the founder, host, and producer of the Arete Coach Podcast, which explores the art and science of executive coaching with some of the industry's best executive coaches, coaching industry researchers, and book authors.

From 2010-2018 Severin was a Vistage Chair who coached three CEO and key executive groups. Several also was honored to be a Vistage Mentor Chair and help other prospective Vistage Chairs start their journey’s into coaching. In 2011, Severin received the "Rookie of the Year Chair Award" from Vistage. Since 2013, Severin has added international speaking for Vistage, CEO conferences, executive peer groups, and corporations on identifying and hiring difference-making top talent, where he has given over 300 speaker presentations internationally.

In this episode, Severin shares his journey into executive coaching, his Vistage Chair experience, the value of curiosity and lifetime learning, the sentient aspects of 'active listening,' the role of tools in his executive coaching toolkit, several coaching lessons learned, and much more. More on these topics are available at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 22 October 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded on August 5th, 2024, Severin explores the critical topic of AI adoption in business. As an expert in leveraging AI for business growth and the author of "The AI Whisperer" Series, Severin brings valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities presented by the AI revolution. This episode is tailored for executive coaches, chairs, mentors, and facilitators guiding CEOs and key executives across thousands of businesses worldwide.

In this engaging exploration, Severin Sorensen delves into the complexities of AI implementation in business, drawing from experience and research. He examines the disparity between companies successfully leveraging AI and those struggling to realize its potential. Sorensen's analysis covers key factors contributing to AI success, common pitfalls, and practical strategies for businesses at various stages of their AI journey. His insights are particularly valuable for small and medium-sized enterprises navigating the AI landscape. The episode also critically examines traditional frameworks for technology adoption, such as "Crossing the Chasm" and "The Innovator's Dilemma," in the context of AI. Sorensen's approach aligns perfectly with the Arete Coach Podcast's mission to explore excellence in the art and science of executive coaching, offering listeners actionable insights to guide their clients through the AI revolution.

Severin Sorensen addresses the critical challenges and opportunities presented by AI adoption in business. He highlights the significant disparity between companies successfully leveraging AI and those struggling to realize its potential. This gap, Sorensen explains, often stems from differences in strategic clarity, investment in necessary resources, and the ability to manage organizational changes. For business owners, this underscores the importance of aligning AI initiatives with core business objectives and investing in quality data infrastructure.

Sorensen emphasizes the value of starting with clear, focused AI initiatives that can deliver quick wins. He advises businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, to begin with simple, well-defined use cases that offer immediate benefits. This approach not only provides tangible value but also builds confidence and paves the way for more complex AI applications. The episode offers practical strategies for AI implementation, including conducting thorough business needs assessments, setting realistic expectations, and maintaining a balance between AI automation and human oversight.

For executive coaches, the episode provides valuable insights into guiding clients through the AI revolution. Sorensen discusses the evolving role of executive coaches in helping leaders navigate the complexities of AI adoption. He stresses the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the face of AI's rapid development. The episode also critically examines traditional frameworks for technology adoption in the context of AI, offering coaches a nuanced understanding of how to apply these concepts in today's business landscape. This knowledge equips coaches to better support their clients in developing effective AI strategies and managing the organizational changes that come with AI implementation.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on August 5, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the Arete Coach Podcast where we explore the art and science of executive coaching with host Severin Sorensen. Our guest is Ozzie Gontang, Ph.D., Executive Coach, Master Coach, and Vistage COPE Award Winner (2001). Ozzie's path to executive coaching came through his work as a marathoner, counselor, and psychotherapist. He transitioned to executive coach and executive peer group leader being awarded Vistage's highest honor, the Cope Award in 2001.

This interview was recorded on November 20, 2020.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1062 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Izsak Norbert, PhD, MCC who lives in Hungary. Izsak is an ICF and EMCC certified executive coach, Mentor Coach, Founding Director of PTF Coach Academy ACTP EQA, ICF PCC credential assessor, executive coach, speaker, and ICF Hungary accreditation committee member. Prior to becoming an executive coach, Izsak was a journalist for business and HR news.

In the episode, we talk about the use of biblical storytelling, historical journeys, and metaphors to add meaning and nuance to the coaching setting. We explore the questions behind the questions, active listening, and co-creating the coaching session. Izsak shares his ICF PCC and MCC accreditation journey, mentoring insights, and lessons learned. Today, Izsak leads a coach facilitation and training company in Hungary that uses Christian values as a foundational framework for coaching clients with similar belief structures on life coaching issues. Discover more on these topics are at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on December 20, 2021.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1006 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Glenn Waring, Executive Coach, Master Coach, Moderator of ChairVoice, and CEO of EffectiveOrganization.com. This episode's guest is Glenn Waring. Glenn earned his undergraduate degree at Claremont College and his MBA from Cornell University. In Glenn's early years he worked with Scott Peck. He found he liked coaching and became a TEC/Vistage Chair for some 27 years. The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 9/21/20 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1007 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Steve Ramerini. Steve Ramerini is an Executive Coach, Master Coach, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of COMPEL CEOs (www.compelceos.com, and Hyndman Award Winner. Steve started his career getting two degrees in accounting and taxation. He moved into banking and found what he liked most was helping companies and their business owners thrive. After witnessing several bank mergers and the cyclical disruption to his life, he pivoted to executive coaching to build a career in the area he loved. In the episode, Steve describes his coaching journey and wisdom gained over several decades of helping executives thrive. The episode concludes with seven minutes of discussion on lessons learned from hosting virtual peer group meetings via Zoom and the technical issues to be mindful of to create a successful hybrid meeting. The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 10/16/20 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1097 of the Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen and his guest Virginia Knudsen, Executive Coach and CEO and Founder of BOAR.

Virginia Knudsen is the CEO and Founder of BOAR, a “courageous community” which creates “personal and professional greatness.” At BOAR Virginia helps executives and business owners “seize opportunities and fulfill their potential.” Through her CEO Mastermind groups and executive coaching, she helps business leaders develop their skills, “live courageously”, inspire others, “be role models”, and connect with and learn from other business leaders. Virginia uses her unique skill set from her experience in roles such as CEO, Entrepreneur, EVP/COO, Former Vistage Chair (7 yr) and Vistage Member (7.5 yr), and Executive Coach to best assist her clients and group members. Before her consulting and coaching, Virginia was the SVP and Region Manager of First National Bank of Nevada, SVP of Nevada State Bank, and EVP and COO of Bank of George. She obtained her Master of Science Degree in Organizational Leadership from Regis University and was awarded the “Women of Distinction Award- Glass Ceiling” by the National Association of Women Business Owners in 2009. In 2021, Virginia also became a certified Fierce Facilitator.

In the podcast, we explore Virginia's journey into executive coaching, lessons in life and some lessons learned through hardship as a young mother, then working at Wells Fargo to provide for her family, and how she was quickly identified as a high potential and earned her way up the ranks in banking. We learn of her journey into coaching and her passion for helping others. We learn of several powerful questions she has asked to her coaching clients. We hear about her early exploration of learning and self at Landmark, and how that created a desire to learn more and share more with others.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on July 22, 2022 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1035 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Steve Leach.

In this episode, Steve Leach talks about his journey as an executive coach, business coach, and master coach with ActionCoach. Steve shares his entry into business coaching, the formative years of ActionCoach, and his favorite coaching tools, including the use of metaphors in coaching situations. Steve shares his favorite coaching metaphor of "Wile E. Coyote" and why sometimes entrepreneurs seem to sabotage the very things they build.

Steve lives in Brisbane, Australia, and he is a founding coach with ActionCOACH, and one of the early pioneers of Business and Executive coaching. Over the past 26 years, Steve has inspired, educated, guided and held accountable, over 630 business owners, as their 1-on-1 coach; several of whom have been on programs for over a decade.  Steve has also racked up a staggering, speaking resume; having spent over 9,600 hours on stage, in 68 cities, across 19 countries. Steve is wise, insightful, and witty, and his journey into executive coaching is a great addition to the Arete Coach Podcast.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on June 3, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Arete Coach Podcast is Copyright © 2021 by Arete LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1022 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Mark Taylor, MBA. Mark is an executive coach and Vistage Chair (since 2009, 12+ yr). He is also a Master Chair, Keynote Speaker, and entrepreneur. In the Vistage eco-system, Mark is a high performer and is consistently ranked in the Top 20 Chairs, and he is a Vistage Star Award Winner. Prior to executive coaching, Mark was an early mover and leader in the computerized shipping and logistics industry. He has built, operated, and sold his own business, and comes to coaching with valuable real-world experience. In his career, one of the businesses he operated was named in the NY State Fast 100 Growth Companies. In his coaching career Mark grew an interest in Dave Logan et.al.'s Tribal Leadership and is certified as a trainer in this field. Most recently, Mark has been getting training in Positive Intelligence and talks about this important field and its rising importance in the coaching industry today. What the listener will find abundantly clear is that Mark is a lifetime learner and brings with him a curiosity about life, language, and relationships that makes this podcast episode a great listen.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 3/31/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1074 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, and wherein we revisit 'The Great Resignation" thread and explore navigating labor scarcity and wage inflation.

There are two times as many open positions as there identified unemployed workers to fill the positions. A scarcity of labor is impacting wages, worker sentiment, and compensation. In this episode we explore 10 pockets to find more talent today; and 9 ways to pay your employees higher wages from your internal company resources. We discuss incentives, compensation, gainsharing, and qualities of great places to work.

This is the second episode on the Great Resignation, and those desiring more information are encouraged to listen to episode 1050 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, and we explore 'The Great Resignation or The Turning Away From, and Turning To… Trend" was released on 11/29/21.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on May 15, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1016 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Bud Carter.

Bud Carter is an Executive Coach, Senior Chairman of Vistage Chairs in Atlanta, Board Member of Vistage Florida, board member of several private companies, and author of Great Quotes for Great Businesses, ‘Pithy Quotes” business quotes, and much more. Bud came to coaching following a career in newspaper journalism, radio, and media. His journalistic probing and question asking gives him an insightful launch point into conversations. He also is a keen listener and has taken his listening to a new level, publishing numerous books of pithy teachable quotes for business leaders.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 2/08/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1023 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Rustica Lamb as we explore what is meant by Learning 3.0.

So how do we learn? How can we learn better? How can we teach better? These are themes and more from the Learning and Development (L&D) community are grist for today’s episode. I am speaking today with Rustica Lamb, a Senior Learning Technology Ecosystem Strategist | Author of #Learning3.0 on LinkedIn; host of the Learning3.0 Podcast. And she is also a frequent contributor to Learningatwork on Clubhouse. Rustica resides in Auckland, NZ, and is founder and President of Bloom Learning Technologies that she has operated since 2012. In her career, Rustica has been involved in curriculum development, learning strategy, and implementation in a wide variety of Learning Management Systems (LMS) solutions for business and educational environments.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 8 April 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded via Zoom on September 13th, 2024, we are honored to have Hannah Finrow, a Master Certified Coach (MCC) with the International Coach Federation (ICF). Hannah is renowned for her expertise as a Life Coach, Executive Coach, and global coaching expert. She serves as a premier fellow coach at BetterUp and has held leadership roles at CoachTrainingEDU, including VP of Marketing Education.

In an engaging conversation, titled, " "Don't ever stop being Hannah," Hannah Finrow shares her inspiring journey from being one of nine children to becoming a highly respected coach with over a decade of experience. Her career began in service-level positions, including management roles at Taco Bell and Jamba Juice, before discovering her passion for coaching. Over the past years, Hannah has dedicated herself to helping individuals unlock their potential, enhance their leadership skills, and embrace their authentic selves. Recognized globally, Hannah has contributed more than 10,000 hours to coaching, mentoring, and training. This episode delves into Hannah's profound commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and coaches to find their unique voices, perfectly aligning with the Arete Coach Podcast's exploration of excellence in executive coaching.

Hannah Finrow's journey to becoming a Master Certified Coach offers valuable insights for executive coaches. Her emphasis on authenticity and "being" rather than just "doing" highlights the importance of personal growth and self-awareness in coaching. Hannah's approach demonstrates that effective coaching goes beyond techniques and tools; it's about creating a space where clients can explore their true selves and unlock their potential.

The podcast underscores the significance of listening and intuition in executive coaching. Hannah's practice of "pausing for intuition" and her willingness to ask seemingly unrelated questions based on her intuitive insights showcase the power of deep listening and trust in the coaching process. This approach can help executive coaches move beyond surface-level conversations to facilitate profound breakthroughs with their clients.

Hannah's perspective on the "gap" in coaching provides a crucial framework for executive coaches. By focusing on the space between where clients are and where they want to be, coaches can help clients identify areas for growth and development. Additionally, Hannah's multidimensional approach, incorporating elements like poetry and metaphor, illustrates how executive coaches can leverage diverse tools and perspectives to enhance their practice and create more impactful coaching experiences.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded via Zoom on September 13, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen and his guest Bill Clark, Executive Coach, Master Coach, and CEO of Clark Leadership Group. Interviewed on 10/16/20 via Zoom Video. Bill is a disruptor, innovator, and executive coaching peer who I esteem highly. The podcast begins with Bill talking about his experience sailing around the world and what he learned in the silence. What's also unusual about Bill is that he is not the typical scholar or industrial psychologist that you often see in executive coaching positions. Rather Bill struggled in school, worked his way up from an employee of a laundromat to later buying that company with the mentoring of his uncle. Bill's coaching journey was made possible by his entrepreneurship spirit, building, buying, and selling eight companies. He shares his ups and his downs in an authentic conversation that was most memorable and touching. As a coach, he has helped companies and their leaders grow their businesses from the low millions to over $400 million. Bill is a lifetime learner that has been through his own school of hard knocks and now he helps others learn, grow, and achieve their potentials. This was a special interview and I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1019 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Phil Holberton, CPA. Phil is an executive coach, Vistage/TEC Chair (of 8 years), and Instructor on organizational leadership for Brandeis University. Phil began his entrepreneurial pursuits first serving in the financial audit track and grew into the CFO role for a number of private and public companies including Cambridge NeuroScience, BioSepra, Genome Therapeutics, Protein Forest, and then he was CEO of Differential Proteomics. In the podcast we explore Phil's journey as a coach and what he is working on now as a lifetime learner exploring mental fitness and positive intelligence coaching.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 3/10/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to a special episode of the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded on April 10th, 2024, the focus is on leveraging AI for everyday uses to help you personally and professionally -- something often labelled "Life Hacks."

Severin Sorensen himself, an executive coach with over 8,000 hours of coaching experience and author of the new book 'The AI Whisperer: Life Hacks,' discusses the transformative potential of AI. His insights stem from a rich career and deep dive into AI applications, offering both everyday users and coaching professionals new tools for enhancing their lives and practices.

In this engaging episode, Severin shares his journey of discovering the transformative potential of AI in not just business and executive coaching, but also in the nuances of daily life. He discusses how his book, "The AI Whisperer Life Hacks", aims to democratize AI expertise and make it accessible to everyday users, guiding them to leverage AI for optimizing health, nutrition, personal finance, creativity, and more. Severin's profound commitment to harnessing AI's power to enrich daily lives and enhance decision-making aligns perfectly with the Arete Coach Podcast's exploration of excellence in coaching and personal development.

The AI Whisperer: Life Hacks" by Severin Sorensen demonstrates how artificial intelligence (AI) can seamlessly integrate into various facets of everyday life, enhancing both personal and professional experiences. The book is structured into five main sections, each focusing on different applications of AI:

1. Personal Life and Home Management: AI acts as a personal assistant for home and lifestyle management, aiding in tasks from car maintenance to pet care. It offers tailored recommendations for cooking, budgeting, and health management, simplifying daily routines and enhancing lifestyle quality.
2. Knowledge and Learning: This section showcases AI as a dynamic educational tool that supports and enhances learning across subjects like art, math, and coding. It provides personalized educational content, making complex subjects accessible and engaging, and enhances lifelong learning.
3. Social and Cultural Engagement: AI enriches social interactions and cultural engagement by acting as a cultural concierge. It offers fashion advice, entertainment recommendations, and insights into global customs, tailoring content to individual preferences and broadening cultural horizons.
4. Travel, Events, and Lifestyle: AI transforms travel planning and event management, providing itinerary suggestions, local business insights, and event planning logistics. It serves as a personal travel agent, optimizing travel experiences and simplifying event organization.
5. Work, Career, and Financial Assistance: In the professional realm, AI assists in analyzing business trends, job searching, and financial planning. It provides strategic advice for career development and financial management, proving invaluable in navigating professional landscapes and achieving financial stability.

Overall, "The AI Whisperer: Life Hacks" illustrates the profound impact of AI in transforming ordinary tasks into opportunities for efficiency and growth, making it a valuable ally in everyday life.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on April 10, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen, with an episode that explores: "Footprints of Impact: Exploring the Art of Coaching Through the Metaphor of Leaving Tracks." In this episode, we are honored to have Laura Gordon, a UK Best Practice Vistage Chair. Laura has been in the coaching industry for 14 years and a Vistage Chair for over 10 years. She was awarded the 2023 Phil Meddings Award, the highest accolade in Vistage UK and Ireland, as well as the Rookie of the Year Award for Chairs in 2015 and the Chair Excellence Award every year since.

In an engaging conversation, Laura shares her inspiring journey from her early career as a lawyer and business owner to becoming a passionate executive coach. Her diverse background includes roles as the director of an innovative economic development initiative driven by the Scottish government and as the director of an international education services company. Laura's commitment to personal growth and helping others is evident in her numerous certifications, including Positive Intelligence, Inclusive Leadership, NLP, and clinical hypnotherapy. She has also served on various boards, such as the Glasgow and Edinburgh Chambers of Commerce and the Institute of Directors. Throughout the episode, Laura emphasizes the importance of asking powerful questions, challenging clients to achieve growth, and creating a legacy that positively impacts the lives of others. Her insights perfectly align with the Arete Coach Podcast's exploration of excellence in executive coaching.

Several core themes echo in this conversation related to excellence in executive coaching and personal growth.

The power of asking challenging questions: Laura emphasizes the importance of asking powerful, thought-provoking questions that push clients out of their comfort zones and encourage them to explore new perspectives. She discusses the courage required to ask difficult questions and how this skill has developed throughout her coaching career.

Embracing change and trying new things: Throughout her professional journey, Laura has embraced change and experimented with different careers and roles. She encourages others to adopt a similar mindset, as it leads to personal growth and the discovery of new passions. Laura also highlights the value of stepping out of one's comfort zone and trying new approaches in coaching to keep the experience interesting and engaging for both the coach and the client.

The importance of being intentional and making choices: Drawing from the works of Viktor Frankl and the movie "Groundhog Day," Laura discusses the significance of being intentional in one's actions and making conscious choices, even when external circumstances are beyond one's control. She emphasizes that personal growth and change stem from within and that individuals have the power to shape their own lives and experiences.

Creating a legacy and making a positive impact: Laura stresses the importance of leaving a positive legacy and making a difference in the lives of others. She quotes Ruth Bader Ginsburg, saying, "Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks," encouraging listeners to consider the impact of their actions on their clients, communities, and the world at large.

Continuous learning and personal development: Throughout the episode, Laura shares her passion for continuous learning and personal growth. She has pursued numerous certifications and has served on various boards to expand her knowledge and skills. Laura's commitment to self-improvement and staying updated with the latest developments in coaching underscores the importance of lifelong learning in the field.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on April 26, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1135 of the Arete Coach Podcast with your host, Severin Sorensen. In this insightful conversation, we are joined by Gustavo Razzetti, an acclaimed speaker, best-selling author, and esteemed workplace culture consultant. As the founder of Fearless Culture, and creator of the Culture Design Canvas, Gustavo facilitates transformative discussions to reshape workplace cultures. His rich career journey includes high-profile roles in companies like Leo Burnett, 1871, and the Galagos United, which lend to his comprehensive understanding of workplace culture.

The highlight of this episode is our deep dive into the realities of the remote workplace, busting myths, and exploring the various shapes of hybrid workplaces. We also scrutinize the significance of value-driven work, employee engagement strategies, and the innovative concept of job pricing based on value rather than hours. This conversation promises to offer valuable insights for organizations navigating the post-pandemic, remote work landscape. Tune in to learn from Gustavo, the mind behind the award-winning book, "Remote Not Distant," whose innovative perspectives have been featured in respected publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, Psychology Today, and the BBC.

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on May 25th, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is Arete Coach Podcast Episode 1147, with host Severin Sorensen bringing you an exciting episode with guest Dwight Frindt titled: "Agendaless Coaching: Truly Hearing and Being Heard." Dwight Frindt is an Executive Coach, Consultant, Advisor, Vistage Best Practice and Master Chair, Co-Founder of 2130 Partners, and Author.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast with your host, Severin Sorensen. This platform dives deep into the world of executive coaching, exploring both the art and the science behind it. In today's episode, we're privileged to have Dwight Frindt, an accomplished executive coach, as our guest.

Dwight's journey in the coaching sphere is truly commendable. With experiences like Vistage under his belt since 1994, co-founding the leadership development firm 2130 Partners, and authoring "Accelerate: High Leverage Leadership for Today's World" with his wife, Suzanne Frindt, Dwight's expertise is vast and deep-rooted.

One of the most profound aspects Dwight touches upon is the art of listening. He believes that in today's fast-paced world, the simple act of truly listening to someone can be transformative. Vistage, as he points out, has integrated this approach into their core, allowing members to not just feel heard but to truly understand themselves better through the reflections of others. An impactful interaction that Dwight recalls is with a Vistage member who, when asked why his member wanted to be a part of Vistage, he said, "When I'm listened to, I can hear myself." 

Dwight also introduces us to the concept of "agendaless coaching." This method, as Dwight explains, is about approaching a coaching session without any pre-set objectives or biases. By doing so, the coach creates a space where the coachee can freely express and, in the process, have moments of self-realization. Often, coachees find themselves voicing thoughts they've had for years but never truly understood or grasped until that moment.

With an MBA from Harvard Business School and 15,000 hours of paid executive leadership coaching experience and a genuine passion for instigating positive change, Dwight's insights in this episode are nothing short of invaluable. Whether you're an executive looking to hone your leadership skills or someone keen on understanding the intricacies of effective coaching, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge.

Join us on this enlightening journey and prepare to be inspired!

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on September 8, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded via Zoom on November 27, 2024, we are joined by Dr. Patrick Williams with an episode titled "Unlocking Coaching Mastery." Dr. Williams is a pioneer in the coaching profession, Master Certified Coach (MCC), and founder of the Institute for Life Coach Training (ILCT). Dr. Williams has been instrumental in shaping the coaching industry, serving on the International Coaching Federation (ICF) board and being honored as an inaugural member of the ICF Circle of Distinction.

Dr. Williams’ journey began in humanistic and transpersonal psychology, where he recognized a gap between traditional therapy and coaching. His passion for coaching, mentoring, and emotional literacy led him to establish a training school that has impacted thousands of professionals worldwide. Beyond coaching, his work focuses on metaphors in coaching, emotional literacy, and the power of silence in deep conversations.

The Power of Silence in Coaching

Dr. Williams emphasizes the importance of pausing and active listening. He advises coaches to resist the urge to fill silence and instead allow clients space to process. This approach leads to more profound client insights and transformation.

Emotional Literacy vs. Emotional Intelligence

While Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is widely recognized, Dr. Williams advocates for Emotional Literacy, which emphasizes not just understanding emotions but also expressing them in a meaningful way. His Emotional Literacy Academy provides tools for self-awareness, authenticity, and deeper communication.

The Role of Metaphors in Coaching

Metaphors help clients describe challenges and uncover solutions in ways that resonate deeply. Dr. Williams encourages coaches to listen for natural metaphors and explore their meanings rather than imposing interpretations.

Mentorship, Legacy, and Lifelong Learning

Dr. Williams discusses the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and leaving a living legacy. He highlights the concept of "switch mentoring," where experienced professionals learn from younger individuals while imparting wisdom in return.

As an author, speaker, and mentor, Dr. Williams continues to inspire coaches and leaders through his commitment to lifelong learning, curiosity, and personal growth.

The Arete Coach Podcast explores the art and science of executive coaching. You can find more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on November 27, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1,125 of the Arete Coach Podcast with your host Severin Sorensen, where we delve into the art and science of executive coaching. In this special episode, we focus on the Life, Legacy, and Wisdom of Warren Buffett.

Recorded on May 7th, 2023, this episode takes you on a journey to the Annual Shareholders Gathering of Berkshire Hathaway in Omaha, Nebraska. We explore Warren Buffett's wisdom through a virtual walk, highlighting our Top 40 Wisdom Shares from his shareholder letters, answers to questions, and famous quotes.

Join us as we recount the experience of attending the Shareholders Gathering, provide a sample answer from Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger on the topic of Elon Musk, and much more. We take you on a virtual tour of the expo hall, showcasing the diverse offerings of the companies owned or operated by Berkshire Hathaway.

Warren Buffet and Berkshire Hathaway have an astounding investment track record, earning a 19.8% compounded annual interest from 1965 to 2022, nearly double the S&P 500's 9.8% return. How does he achieve this success? What criteria does he use when selecting companies to acquire or invest in? What questions does he ask during due diligence? We explore these topics and more in this episode.

This past weekend, Warren Buffet hosted the highly anticipated Berkshire Hathaway annual shareholders meeting in Omaha, Nebraska, affectionately known as the Woodstock of Capitalism. CNBC broadcasted the event with host Becky Quick, who posed questions submitted by shareholders and other interested parties.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode,, we are honored to have four distinguished guests: Meena Kumari Adani (1115), Janet Fogarty (1036), Norma Rosenberg (1005), and Cindy Hesterman (1051). Each guest brings a wealth of experience from various backgrounds, such as corporate executive roles and entrepreneurship, and shares their unique journeys into executive coaching. This episode, titled "Coach Wisdom from Wise Women Part Two," explores the transformative experiences and profound insights these women bring to the field of executive coaching.

Their wisdom underscores coaching's power to elevate human potential when its humanity is awakened through intentional practice. This curated episode pays tribute to the diverse paths wise women are forging to shape coaching's future.

Meena Kumari Adani, a self-empowerment and business coach from Jakarta, shares her journey from corporate executive to empowering women entrepreneurs. Janet Fogarty, a Vistage chair, discusses her transition from owning a travel business to fostering executive growth. Norma Rosenberg, an executive coach in Manhattan, relates her shift from management consulting to coaching, emphasizing intuition in her practice. Lastly, Cindy Hesterman, also a Vistage chair, recounts her path from CFO to influential coach and mentor. Each story underscores resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of effective mentorship, aligning perfectly with the Arete Coach Podcast's theme of exploring excellence in executive coaching.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on April 22, 2024. Portions pre-recorded.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1076 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Mary O'Sullivan, PCC, who is an executive coach, HR consultant, speaker, and author. Through her company Encore Executive Coaching and HR Consulting, Mary helps executives improve their communications skills, demonstrate more positive and assertive behavior, and master their emotional intelligence. She also helps executives address workplace harassment, diversity, and other moral issues. Mary is an ICF Professional Certified Coach, a certified Emotional Intelligence Practitioner, and has graduated certificate in coaching from the University of Texas. She is also a Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) Senior Certified Professional. In 2021, Mary published her second book, “The Leader You Don’t Want to Be” along with a companion workbook.

In this episode we explore Mary's journey into coaching from corporate America, working for Raytheon and other industrial companies, and her transition into her life passion of executive coaching. She shares several powerful questions and a metaphor for exploring one's Towed Array of emotional experiences that might be impacting one's everyday performance. And we discuss her experience writing her most recent book.

Discover more on these topics at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on January 18, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In this episode of the Arete Coach Podcast, host Severin Sorensen sits down with Talmage Boston, a distinguished attorney, author, speaker, and presidential historian. With over four decades of experience in commercial litigation and a deep passion for history, Talmage shares invaluable insights from his latest book, How the Best Did It: Leadership Lessons from Our Top Presidents.

This episode, recorded on November 27, 2024, via Zoom, explores the leadership principles of America’s most impactful presidents and how their lessons can be applied to modern leadership and executive coaching.

Talmage Boston is a partner at Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley, and Norton, LLP, and has been honored as a Texas Super Lawyer since 2003. Beyond his legal career, he is an esteemed historian and author endorsed by Pulitzer Prize-winning historians like David McCullough and Jon Meacham. His previous books, including Cross-Examining History and Raising the Bar, provide thought-provoking analyses of leadership and historical narratives.

In How the Best Did It, Talmage identifies 24 leadership traits exhibited by eight U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald Reagan. Each chapter includes interactive questions to help readers apply these insights to their leadership journey.

Boston identifies three overarching traits that all eight presidents shared:

1. Persuasion – Ability to inspire and unify diverse groups.
2. Self-Awareness – Recognizing strengths and delegating weaknesses.
3. Big-Picture Focus – Aligning leadership efforts with the needs of the broad middle rather than extremes.

Boston stresses that history should be remembered accurately and used to inspire positive change. He encourages leaders to apply historical lessons to modern challenges and maintain a commitment to integrity and unity.

This episode offers a powerful blend of history and leadership, making it an essential listen for executive coaches, business leaders, and history enthusiasts alike.

The Arete Coach Podcast explores the art and science of executive coaching. You can find more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on November 27, 2024.

Copyright © 2025 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1015 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Katherine Crewe, ICD.D, P.Eng, FCAE, TEC-Canada Chair, and executive coach who operates from greater Montreal, Canada. Importantly, Katherine is our first Arete Coach podcast guest coach from Canada!

Today, Katherine is an executive coach and TEC-Canada Chair (for 7+ years) working with small to medium-size businesses. Katherine is a professional engineer (P.Eng.) who came to coaching from her business experience formed first as an executive in a biomedical device manufacturing career. Katherine is also a board member of several companies and has experienced business issues from many viewpoints and positions. We explore how she has adapted her coaching practice to meet coaching client needs in a Covid operating environment.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 2/11/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is Arete Coach Podcast Episode 1141, with host Severin Sorensen bringing you an exciting episode with Dr. Philippe Bouissou. Philippe, is a man whose multifaceted journey through Silicon Valley is filled with invaluable insights. From being a best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and growth expert to an entrepreneur, CEO, venture capitalist, and board member, Philippe has donned many hats. His book "Aligning the Dots" presents a revolutionary approach to optimizing resource allocation for sustainable, profitable growth. As a managing partner and co-founder of Blue Dots Partners LLC, he focuses on accelerating top-line growth.

In his years as a venture capitalist, Philippe evaluated over 2300 startups and witnessed firsthand the common pitfalls that led to their demise. A key realization he shares is the critical importance of focus and self-awareness for a startup's survival and success. This episode dives deep into Philippe's entrepreneurial journey, the eye-opening lessons he gleaned from Steve Jobs at Apple, and the profound understanding that, ultimately, every business is in the business of 'manufacturing and delivering delight' to its customers.

We'll also discuss the lessons learned from failures, the humbling experience of studying physics, the crucial role of alignment within teams, the significance of having CEO experience before serving as a board member, and much more.

Philippe's career began as the founder and CEO of G2I Incorporated, a UNIX software company later acquired by Matra. He then joined Apple as the director of the Worldwide Internet Commerce Group, where he founded and managed the online Apple Store, catapulting its revenue from zero to 350 million. Post-Apple, Philippe transitioned into venture capitalism and co-managed the Milestone Group, a management consulting firm serving over 220 clients. Throughout his career, he has led 120 management consulting projects with giants like Cisco, Microsoft, SAP, and VeriSign, and served on the board of directors of 20 companies, including the Association for Corporate Growth (ACG).

Armed with degrees from Ecole Normale Supérieure in mathematics, a master's in physics, and a Ph.D. in nonlinear physics and chaos theory, Philippe brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

Join us for a stimulating 60-minute cognitive stroll with two new friends, as we traverse through a multitude of topics, each more enlightening than the last.

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on June 22, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1018 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, where for this episode we focus on "managing family-owned leadership transitions." In this special edition, we explore the unique nature of family-owned businesses, and how family-owned businesses in the past have successfully transferred leadership and ownership from one generation to the next. We also cross-walk through a successful executive search for a hired-gun, professional manager, who will act as the new interim CEO for a family-owned business, where the new CEO must navigate the business operations while managing the hopes, dreams, and realities of the family-owned business, with an aim of preparing the next generation family members for leadership.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on March 4, 2021.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In episode 1165 of the Arete Coach Podcast, titled "Mentoring as a Positive Iago: Transformative Executive Coaching," host Severin Sorensen engages in a profound conversation with Ed Robinson, an executive coach and Vistage Chair with a rich background in leadership development and executive consulting. His lifelong passion for leadership, dating back to his early fascination with historical leaders, has been a guiding force throughout his career. Robinson's extensive expertise was further honed through his training as a management consultant at Ernst & Young, where he learned the intricacies of aiding organizations in solving complex problems. Additionally, his time at the Gallup Leadership Institute played a significant role in shaping his strength-based approach to leadership and coaching. This combination of experiences, along with his innate curiosity and commitment to continuous learning, has equipped Robinson to excel as a masterful coach, impacting the lives and careers of many leaders and executives.

In episode 1165 of the Arete Coach Podcast, titled "Mentoring as a Positive Iago: Transformative Executive Coaching," host Severin Sorensen delves into a profound discussion with Ed Robinson, a seasoned executive coach and Vistage Chair. Robinson shares his comprehensive experience in leadership development and executive coaching, emphasizing his role as a "Positive Iago" in guiding and mentoring leaders. He reflects on his journey, highlighting the blend of personal and professional growth in coaching. Robinson’s approach is underlined by his belief in the transformative power of positive influence, akin to a constructive whisper in the ears of leaders, shaping them for the better.

Topics Covered include: Executive Coaching Techniques; Leadership Development; Problem-Solving in Management; Business Growth Strategies; Financial Success in Coaching; Vistage Chair Experience; Education and Training Methods; Book Writing and Publishing; Personal Journey in Coaching. Client Success Stories.

Thoughts expressed by Ed in our conversation included: "Effective coaching involves understanding both the people and the math of business." "The best coaching outcome is when clients achieve more than they initially believed possible." "Personal life should not become a casualty of business success." "You have to be the positive influence in the lives of those you coach."

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on January 5th 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1047 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Jill Douka, MCC.

In this episode, I speak with Jill Douka, MBA, MCC, from Athens, Greece, who is an executive coach, best-selling author, and Director of the Global Academy of Coaching. We explore topics of personal development, coaching specialization, entrepreneurship, and coaching coaches. Jill's career started out as a dancer, moved to event management, Olympics HR management, and later into executive and life coaching. She is the author of three best-selling life coaching books on topics of love, life, and following your passion. She has a new book in publication called, Women Now. Her favorite quote will be familiar to Star Wars fans... "do or do not, there is no try."

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on November 2, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1,110 of the Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen and his guest Bill Clark, who is an Executive Coach, Master Coach, and CEO of Clark Leadership Group. The theme of this episode is “learning from life’s curriculum.’

This interview was recorded on October 16, 2020 via Zoom Video

In this podcast we explore what Bill Clark describes as ‘learning lessons from life’s curriculum.’ Bill is a disruptor, innovator, and executive coaching peer who I esteem highly. The podcast begins with Bill talking about his experience sailing around the world and what he learned in the silence. What's also unusual about Bill is that he is not the typical scholar or industrial psychologist you often see in executive coaching positions. Rather Bill struggled in school, worked his way up from an employee of a laundromat to later buying that company with the mentoring of his uncle. Bill's coaching journey was made possible by his entrepreneurship spirit, building, buying, and selling eight companies. He shares his ups and his downs in an authentic conversation that was most memorable and touching. As a coach, he has helped companies and their leaders grow their businesses from the low millions to over $400 million. Bill is a lifetime learner that has been through his own school of hard knocks and now he helps others learn, grow, and achieve their potential. This was a special interview and certainly one of my favorites. I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did as Bill relays is pure wisdom about life, learning, and leaning into life’s curriculum to become your best self.

More on the topics of life time learning, learning from experience, and executive coaching is available at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 30 January 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1099 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest Dr. Vikki Brock, PhD, MCC. Vikki is an executive coach, an ICF Master Certified Coach, consultant, mentor, and author of The Sourcebook of Coaching History.

In 1995 Vikki left her 21-year career at The Boeing Company to start VB Coaching and Consulting. Today she is an ICF Master Certified Coach, consultant, and mentor. She earned her Executive MBA and a Ph.D. in Coaching and Human Development. When she was coaching, she brought wisdom, experience, and research-based processes to move leaders and individuals to higher stages of personal awareness and effectiveness. Vikki encouraged her clients to take “their leadership and their life to the next level” in a challenging yet non-judgemental way. Vikki is the author of The Sourcebook of Coaching History, “a comprehensive review of the historical roots of coaching and the influence of pioneers from related fields.”

Vikki was closely involved with the early founders of modern coaching: Thomas Leonard and Laura Whitworth. Vikki was an early member of ICF (member #60) and since its creation in 1996 , she was one of the first coaches to receive an MCC from the ICF in 1998. She also was on faculty for the University of Texas at Dallas Coaching Certificate program, and taught for several coach training schools internationally.

In this episode, we explore Vikki's journey into the coach field, her experiences in the growth of the coaching industry, and her passion for interviewing 170 coaching practitioners and scholars as the basis for her Sourcebook on Coaching History.

More on the topic is available at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 17 October 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1057 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Kevin McKeown who lives in Seattle, Washington. Kevin McKeown is a Vistage Master Chair, Vistage Star Award Winner, Vistage Chair Excellence Winner, CEO, Executive Mentor, and Leadership Coach. Kevin has a Law Degree from Villanova and was a former CEO of several small and medium-size businesses. Prior to running his own businesses, Kevin was a former trade representative with Mitsubishi International and another Japanese large-cap corporation.

In the episode, Kevin talks about what it means to him to be a 'ripple maker' striving to help his coaching clients become tsunamis of change. He discusses his passion for actionable daily measures to bring about success. We explore his early years and how they set up a life pattern of entrepreneurship, grit, resilence, and passion for excellence. Kevin shares his favorite coaching questions and more.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on December 17, 2021.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In this special episode of The Arete Coach Podcast, host Severin Sorensen explores the timeless power of referrals in business development, particularly in the world of executive coaching. Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, Severin discusses why referrals are more than just a marketing strategy—they are a testament to trust and the value created in professional relationships. Throughout the episode, he shares key insights on how to cultivate a thriving referral network by focusing on client satisfaction, delivering exceptional value, and fostering trust.

Severin also breaks down the most effective strategies to grow a referral-driven coaching practice, from understanding the psychological motivations behind referrals to implementing cutting-edge technologies and ethical practices. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this episode offers actionable advice on how to make referrals the cornerstone of your practice’s growth.

Join us for an engaging discussion packed with real-world case studies, practical tips, and forward-thinking strategies that can transform your approach to client acquisition.

Key takeaways:

• Why referrals outperform traditional marketing efforts in coaching.
• How to nurture strong client relationships to drive word-of-mouth recommendations.
• Proven methods for leveraging AI, content marketing, and partnerships to boost referrals.
• Ethical considerations and best practices for building a referral ecosystem.
• Practical tools to measure and optimize your referral program.

Tune in to discover how mastering the art of referrals can lead to sustained business growth and deeper professional bonds.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on September 4, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the Arete Coach Podcast where we explore the art and science of executive coaching with host Severin Sorensen. Our guest is Divya Jegasundaram, PCC, MSCL, CLC. Divya's path to executive coaching came the banking sector. She transitioned to life coaching, organizational development coaching, and executive coaching. She is the co-author of the best selling series, "Coach Wisdom."

This interview was recorded on November 24, 2020.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1032 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Jim Canfield.

In this episode, Jim Canfield talks about his journey as an executive coach and President of CEO Tools. Jim began his career as an account executive, providing investment advisory with Calibre Financial Group. From here Jim began his career in the coaching industry in 1994 with TEC Worldwide (where he was a Chair for 9 years) and several more years as an executive. Jim fulfilled many roles years with TEC including Chief Learning Officer, and Vice President of West Coast Operations. In 2006 Jim became CEO of Renaissance Executive Forums, “one of the world’s leading membership organizations for business owners”; where he worked for 10 years. In 2017 Jim became President of CEO tools where he is an author, speaker, and coach for CEOs of small-to-medium-sized organizations. Jim is an impactful speaker and was awarded the 2018, Speaker of the Year, from TEC Canada, and International Speaker of the Year for Vistage UK in 2019, and in 2020 Vistage Worldwide Speaker of the Year. 

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 1 June 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1026 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen exploring Covid19 "Return To Work" issues impacting businesses, employees, and the workplace. Have you ever wondered, “what will the workplace look like when we return to work” after Covid-19, or “who will return” to work after being sent home to “Work From Home”? This is a key issue being discussed now in private homes and corporate board rooms, and it is certainly being actively discussed in executive coaching sessions in recent weeks. In this episode, we explore the research and surveys conducted on employee attitudes on Return To Work themes. We look at productivity studies on remote workers. We listen to employees who now remote, literally "digital nomads' that do not want to return to the workplace who have found freedom in their work. We also peer into a special Clubhouse room held Monday, 3 May 2021, that explores the Return to Work issues impacting businesses, employees, and their coaches.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

Special thanks to executive coaches Ozzie Gontang, Bridget Wenman, and Pete Michaels who joined Severin Sorensen on Clubhouse to convene this conversation.

This episode was recorded on 3 May 2021.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded via Zoom on April 27, 2020, we are honored to have Richard Bosworth, founder and CEO of What If Forums, an executive coaching practice established in 1967 in London. Richard was a former TEC Vistage UK chair known for his candid and insightful coaching style, earning him the affectionate title of "Chief Tormentor" among his clients.

In an engaging conversation titled "The Chief Tormentor as CEO Coach," Richard Bosworth shares his inspiring journey from agricultural scientist to renowned business turnaround marketer and global executive coach. His career began in marketing and corporate life, where he led transformative programs before discovering a passion for coaching. Over the past several decades, Richard dedicated himself to challenging the status quo and helping leaders see things through fresh eyes. Recognized globally, Richard pioneered telecoaching and was an early adopter of digital coaching methods. This episode delves into Richard's profound commitment to creating awesomely successful leaders and his unique approach to ideation facilitation, perfectly aligning with the Arete Coach Podcast's exploration of excellence in executive coaching.

Richard's coaching approach: He describes himself as an "unconventional coach" who challenges the status quo. He focuses on helping leaders look at things through fresh eyes and try new approaches. His coaching style earned him the nickname "Chief Tormentor" among clients.

Evolution of his career: Richard shares his journey from agricultural scientist to marketing expert, then to business turnaround specialist, and finally to executive coach. He was an early adopter of telecoaching in the 1990s, working with clients across Africa.

Coaching tools and techniques: Richard discusses his key coaching tools, including the "aspiration guide" (be, do, have chart), listening to one's gut, and the power of silence. He emphasizes the importance of asking thought-provoking questions.

Most powerful question: Richard reveals that his most impactful question is "What does your family think?" This often leads to deep insights about work-life balance and personal priorities.

Leadership in changing times: Richard observes that the pandemic has accelerated changes in how people work and how leaders need to adapt. He emphasizes that leaders now need to engage and consult their teams rather than just lead in the traditional sense.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on April 27, 2020, via Zoom Video. Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the Arete Coach Podcast where we explore the art and science of executive coaching. This week we introduce the third installment of the "Coach Wisdom from Wise Women" series, wherein host Severin Sorensen explores the insights and experiences of three exceptional female executive coaches and Vistage Chairs: Michelle Barry, Bridget Wendman, and Kathy Fitzhenry. These accomplished Vistage chairs share their unique journeys into coaching, their approaches to heart-centered leadership, and how they balance intuition with structure in their practices.

The episode delves into ten key themes, including heart-centered leadership, lifelong learning, diverse backgrounds leading to coaching, innovative techniques, and the power of questioning. Each coach offers valuable perspectives on creating safe spaces for clients, empowering other women, adapting to change, and measuring success.

Highlights include Michelle Barry's hockey metaphor for anticipating change in business, Bridget Wendman's "grace, not grief" philosophy, and Kathy Fitzhenry's innovative use of characters to explain different aspects of leadership. The episode also features powerful questions these coaches use to provoke thought and growth in their clients.

Sorensen concludes by reflecting on the common threads of authenticity and compassion running through these coaches' work, emphasizing that effective coaching is ultimately about human connection, growth, and courage. This episode offers inspiration and practical wisdom for coaches, business leaders, and anyone interested in personal growth and leadership.

If you've been inspired by these snippets of wisdom and would like to dive deeper into each coach's story and methodology, I encourage you to listen to their full individual episodes. You can hear more from Michele Barry in Episode 1094, Bridget Wenman in Episode 1120, and Kathy Fitzhenry in Episode 1058. Each of these episodes offers a wealth of additional insights and practical advice from these wise women.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on August 25, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1036 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Janet Fogarty.

In this episode, Janet Fogarty talks about her journey as an executive coach and Vistage Master Chair, and what she has learned from the term, "WAIT = Why Am I Talking?" Janet is an Executive Coach, CEO Coach, Leadership Strategist, and Master Chair, and Vistage Chair for over 24 years. Janet is the former CEO of a $65 million per year, 200+ employee, multi-state travel industry business. After selling her company, she took a keen interest in helping others through executive coaching. She has coached business leaders, CEOs, key executives, and coaches who coach executives. She has logged more than 10,000 hours of paid coaching and facilitation of CEO and executive peer groups and one-to-one coaching sessions. Along her path, she earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Regis University and numerous advanced training in the coaching arts including DISC, Emergenetics, Positive Psychology, Crucial Conversations, to name a few.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on May, 31, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1051 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Cindy Hesterman.

In this episode, I speak with Cindy Hesterman, who is an executive coach, Vistage Chair, and recipient of the 2004 Vistage Robert Nourse Chair of the Year Award, and the 2013 Red Scott Award. Cindy has been an executive coach for 19 years with Vistage Florida and currently works with CEOs and other top executives in the Tampa, Florida area. She facilitates her three Vistage group meetings and stays busy with almost 50 one-to-one executive coaching sessions each month. 

In this episode, we explore Cindy's background as a coach, powerful questions that she asks, and several tools she uses such as the "Find Seven Solutions Tool," the "Phone Call Test." We discuss the current economy and the importance of the 13-week forward-looking cash-flow projection. We also discuss managing and preventing conflicts of interest in peer groups. Before Cindy's role as an executive coach, she was a CPA and finance and accounting executive, holding positions such as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Finance and Accounting. In those roles, Cindy was involved in over 35 M&A transactions and an IPO. Today, along with her coaching through Vistage and her position as a Vistage Chair, Cindy is also a certified Predictive Index Practitioner. For several years, she also trained new Vistage Chairs in Florida, Michigan and New Mexico. 

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on November 29, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1,136 of the Arete Coach Podcast. Today, our host Severin Sorensen is conversing with Nida Leard, MCC - a dynamic entrepreneur, business consultant, executive coach, and author from Bangkok, Thailand.

Nida's experience as a serial entrepreneur and former Fortune 500 executive spans over 20 years, blending business acumen, psychology, and personal development. As an accomplished author, her book "One to Millions Entrepreneur" is a unique blend of marketing, branding, and mindset guide.

This episode explores active listening, powerful questioning, and other core ICF coaching competencies, such as dancing in the moment and being present with the coachee. We dive into the value-driven approach of coaching, discussing pricing strategies and service delivery. Nida, who specializes in coaching outliers in the top 2%, shares her insights on inner work, a crucial aspect of personal growth.

Join us in a thought-provoking discussion about active listening, powerful questions, coaching tools, pricing coaching, and delivering high value. We explore what is meant by 'doing the work,' that inner work that is so important. We also talk about making a difference. Nida is empowered by Ghandi's saying, 'be the change you want to see in the world.'

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on 19 May 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1061 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Nathan Biddulph.

Nathan Biddulph is an executive coach, occupational therapist, and "Sports Peak Performance Coach." Nathan teaches neuro skills for competitive athlete clients that include star plays from Major League Baseball Players, National Hockey League Players, and other sports. In recent years, Nathan's Neuro Skills Coach training has been expanded from for Athletes, to Actors, and Business Owners. Nathan shares his career journey and lessons learned from his neuro-skills coaching practice.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on January 4, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the Arete Coach Podcast Episode 1150, with host Severin Sorensen bringing you an engaging conversation with Professor David Clutterbuck, titled, "Beyond Greatness: Embracing Curiosity in Coaching." Professor Clutterbuck is an executive coach, professor of coaching and mentoring, consultant, co founder of the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC), and author of 75 books on coaching, mentoring, leadership, and management, including Coaching and Mentoring that explores coaching models, theories, frameworks, and narratives.

Dive into a thought-provoking conversation with the global authority on coaching, Professor David Clutterbuck. In this 150th episode of the Arete Coach Podcast, Clutterbuck shares his wisdom from decades as an executive coach, author, and researcher. Instead of the crown of "greatness," he dons the hat of "curiosity," emphasizing the lifelong journey of learning in the coaching realm.

From the historical convergence of coaching and mentoring practices to the potential and limitations of AI in coaching, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights. Discover Clutterbuck's unique PRAIRIE framework for powerful questioning, understand the criticality of grounding coaching in scientific research, and embrace the power of humor, fun, and questioning one's own assumptions in the coaching dialogue.

Among the gems, Clutterbuck offers unforgettable quotes like "A coach is what comes immediately behind the horse's ass," highlighting his wit and profound understanding of the field. Whether you're a seasoned coach, an aspiring one, or just a curious mind, this episode promises a riveting ride into the depths of coaching wisdom.

Join us on this enlightening journey and unravel the art of curiosity in coaching.

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on October 24, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1008 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Adam Harris, Executive Coach and Co-Author of the "Check-In Strategy Journal,” a daily tracker for business and personal development. Adam is an entrepreneur, academic, and executive coach. Of note, Adam was the youngest appointed Vistage Chair (UK) where he coached and facilitated executive peer groups for 8 years. Adam now lives in New Zealand and has an entirely remote hosted business practice. In the episode, we explore Adam's remote coaching business and the lessons he has learned. The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 10/13/20 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode, recorded on September 10th, 2024, we are joined by Rupal Patel—best-selling author, speaker, and expert in leadership and talent development. Titled "Owning Your Weird: Unconventional Paths to Success," the episode highlights Rupal's inspiring journey and the lessons she's gathered along the way, offering wisdom for anyone forging their own path in today's unpredictable world.

Rupal Patel's career is as diverse as it is remarkable. She served as a CIA analyst and field agent, earning war zone service medals and recognition from the CIA director for her "superior support to the president of the United States." She later transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding Entrepreneura, and has become a guest lecturer at the University of Edinburgh Business School and external faculty at Henley Business School.

In this insightful conversation, Rupal shares her path from the CIA to becoming a successful author, speaker, and leadership expert. Her career includes earning an MBA from the London School of Business, leading Blue Infinity Property Group as CEO, and launching an international speaking career. Her best-selling book, From CIA to CEO: Unconventional Life Lessons for Thinking Bigger, Leading Better, and Being Bolder, captures her wealth of knowledge and experiences. Throughout the episode, she speaks passionately about leadership, her desire to create a positive, large-scale impact, and how her diverse experiences inform her approach to developing leaders.

A standout quote from the episode comes when Rupal offers advice to young girls: "Choose your peers very carefully. The people we surround ourselves with either help us raise our bar or lower ourselves to our basest instincts." This encapsulates her emphasis on intentionality in personal growth and leadership development.

Rupal's journey provides invaluable insights for executive coaches and leaders. Her focus on creating positive impact beyond individual success speaks to the power of influence at a broader societal level—particularly relevant for executive coaches guiding high-level clients who can shape entire organizations or industries.

Lastly, Patel's message of "owning your weird," which she also discusses in her TED talk, encourages leaders to embrace their unique qualities as assets. Executive coaches can leverage this concept to help clients transform perceived weaknesses into strengths, fostering more authentic, confident, and effective leadership. This not only enhances individual success but also drives organizational growth.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded via Zoom on September 10, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to Episode 1137 of the Arete Coach Podcast: "From 'To-Do' to 'To-Be': A Paradigm Shift in Leadership". Join your host, Severin Sorensen, for a powerful dialogue with David Savage, a master of transformation. As a renowned speaker, author, executive coach, and president of Savage Management Limited, David is an expert in transforming conflict into collaboration and turning communication breakdowns into breakthroughs.

In this compelling episode, we dive into David's world of 'to-be' leadership, contrasting it with traditional 'to-do' lists, and unraveling a whole new way to view success and achievement. Together, we explore topics such as the art of active listening, the power of mindfulness, and the crucial role of being present in coaching and leadership.

David enlightens us on how to turn 'the great resignation' from a potential disaster into a thriving opportunity. He walks us through his unique methods of handling employee terminations with empathy and respect, while revealing the distinct line between customer service and customer delight.

Drawing from his wide range of life experiences and insights from his nine published books, including "Better by Design, Your Best Collaboration Guide", David shares his philosophy on leveraging even negative experiences, like a truly bad job, into invaluable lessons for personal and professional growth.

Immerse yourself in this journey with us as we delve into the fascinating shift from 'to-do' to 'to-be', offering you the tools to become the best version of yourself in leadership and life.

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on June 29, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen, with an episode that explores "Movement as Medicine: Exploring Movement and Meaning With Athletic Psychology."

In this episode, recorded via Zoom on October 1st, 2024, we are joined by Sam Spear, founder and CEO of Coaching Instinct. Sam brings a unique blend of expertise as an executive leadership coach, licensed marriage and family therapist, former advertising and marketing executive, and lifelong competitive athlete. With an impressive client roster including Disney, Netflix, Target, EA, and SpaceX, Sam combines psychological insights with physical activity to unlock deeper organizational insights and model effective leadership.

Sam Spear's journey reflects a fascinating evolution from competitive tennis player to journalism graduate, then to psychotherapist and successful advertising executive. His path led him through roles as a copywriter, creative director, and eventually global creative director before founding and later selling his own agency. Throughout his 20-year business career, Sam maintained a small clinical practice, which unexpectedly merged with his business experience when a Fortune 100 CEO client suggested he consider executive team coaching. This pivotal moment led to the creation of Coaching Instinct, where Sam developed his distinctive approach combining athletic activities with psychological insights to help leaders break through mental obstacles and resistance. His methodology, grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and solution-focused psychotherapy, helps clients achieve greater efficiency, connection, and impact while fostering environments of authenticity and growth.

Sam Spear's approach to executive coaching demonstrates the power of combining physical movement with psychological insight. His methodology shows that engaging clients in athletic activities can create breakthrough moments that translate directly to leadership capabilities. By observing how clients respond to physical challenges, coaches can identify patterns that manifest in their professional lives and help address them more effectively.

The episode highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced approach between future-focused coaching (85-90% of the work) and past-oriented counseling (10-15% of the work). This distinction allows coaches to help clients move forward while occasionally addressing historical patterns that may be hindering their progress. Spear's framework of "wins, losses, and notables" provides a structured way to track progress and leverage successes while learning from setbacks.

Perhaps most significantly, Spear emphasizes the value of slowing down and maintaining perspective in leadership development. His mantra of "STFD" (Slow The F*** Down) encapsulates the importance of being present and making thoughtful decisions rather than rushing through challenges. This approach, combined with his focus on building trust through consistent actions over time, offers a powerful framework for sustainable leadership development and organizational growth.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on October 1, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1025 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Steve Brody, an executive coach and former Vistage Master Chair, who earned his MBA from the UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.

Steve started out his career working for the Coca-Cola Company in marketing and sales, and then moved into executive positions with private companies in the beverage and packaging industries that included Utopia Spring Water, Yellowstone Capital, and PackageNet (a reseller of UPS package shipping services for the supermarket industry). In 1999 he moved from working in businesses to coaching business owners and he was a Vistage Chair for 20 years. About eight years ago he started working with Naviond to help business owners with navigating their lives after business, and most recently he has expanded this work with his affiliation with Navix Consultants helping business owners navigate successful exits from their businesses. In this podcast, Steve shares a brilliant story about his experience as CEO of Utopia Water and how an unanswered question lingers, causes one to think and remember and led to brand recognition and success.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 4/16/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Arete Coach Podcast - Episode 1210 - with Severin Sorensen, "Building Bridges in Coaching, Leadership, and AI"

Featuring Guest Host: Larry Cassidy as he interviews Severin Sorensen

Recorded: December 12, 2024

Join us for a special milestone episode as guest host Larry Cassidy, a Vistage Master Chair, takes over the mic to interview Severin Sorensen, the usual host of the Arete Coach Podcast. Severin Sorensen is an executive coach, entrepreneur, and AI thought leader with a rich background in leadership and innovation. As the host of the Arete Coach Podcast, he delves into best practices and emerging trends in executive coaching. Severin has authored multiple books on artificial intelligence, including The AI Whisperer, providing practical frameworks for integrating AI into business strategies. His career reflects a commitment to lifelong learning, adaptability, and a passion for mentoring others. In this candid conversation, Severin shares his journey from aspiring baseball player to executive coach, entrepreneur, and AI thought leader. He opens up about pivotal career shifts, the importance of adaptability, and how AI is transforming coaching and leadership.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Severin’s early life and mentors shaped his approach to coaching and leadership
• Why marketing and AI are crucial to modern business success
• The importance of protecting company data in an AI-driven world
• How to stay resilient and agile during economic disruptions
• Why mentorship and service are at the core of a meaningful career
• What the future of AI and work means for business leaders and professionals

Memorable Quotes:

• “Money is only as good as the good that money can do.” – A guiding principle from Severin’s grandmother.
• “Humility is the cornerstone of great coaching—it’s not about you, it’s about them.”
• “Know yourself, set a North Star, and remain nimble—rigidity kills progress.”
• “AI will be the greatest disruptor in modern history, but those who embrace it will lead the way.”
• “Be a bridge builder—create pathways for others, not just yourself.”

Listen Now:

Whether you're a coach, leader, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable insights on personal growth, AI’s role in business, and the lasting impact of mentorship. Don’t miss this engaging and thought-provoking discussion!

The Arete Coach Podcast explores the art and science of executive coaching. You can find more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on December 12, 2024.

Copyright © 2025 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the Arete Coach Podcast, Episode, 1132 with host Severin Sorensen, with an episode titled, Beyond Excellence – The Art of Being, Becoming, and Serving as a Chair, Executive Coach, Mentor, and Facilitator. Honoring the life and legacy of Bob Nourse.

This episode pays tribute to the life and contributions of Bob Nourse. We will delve into the 'power of peers and professionally facilitated peer executive groups' as well as the TEC-Vistage model, enriched with insights from numerous past and present TEC and Vistage Chairs and stakeholders.

Vistage is the trailblazer of the professionally moderated executive peer group known as "The Executive Committee", and was established in October 1957. Last October marked Vistage's 65th anniversary, providing a perfect opportunity to reflect on TEC's early stages, growth, and evolution into Vistage. Central to this historical exploration is the extraordinary work of Bob Nourse - his identity, leadership journey, thought processes shaped by his personal experiences and era, and the synthesis of these elements into a purposeful framework for CEOs and peer executive groups, which he named TEC.

In this episode, we explore how Bob Nourse's vision for a Chair's role still permeates the work of TEC and Vistage Chairs worldwide. We will also hear sage advice from many of these Chairs.

This podcast was recorded following the the annual retreat of Keepers Of The Flame in Boulder, Colorado. This event also saw the launch of a new book by Severin Sorensen, 'Beyond Excellence' – The Art of Being, Becoming, and Serving as a Chair, Executive Coach, Mentor, and Facilitator, which celebrates the life and legacy of Bob Nourse.

Sources for this book (and podcast) encompass historical records from Bob Nourse's family, testimonials from contemporary TEC and Vistage stakeholders who knew Bob, and material sourced from over 130 Arete Coach Podcast interviews recorded between April 2020 and June 2023.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on June 26, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1068 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Karl Van Hoey, MCC who lives in Belgium. Karl is an executive coach, MCC, Leader and Strategic Facilitator of Otolith Consulting, co-founder of Team Coaching Global Alliance, an ICF senior subject matter expert, executive professor, author, and founder of www.coachingjounreys.org (a community of 10,000 coaches seeking to cultivate and improve their skills through ICF certification.

In the episode, we talk about Karl's journey and insights in coaching such as 'active listening requires more than ears', about being not doing, radical human organization, moving from conviction to curiosity, a personal lesson on empathy, and Karl's and other coaches' ICF accreditation journies to PCC and MCC, and much more. Discover more on these topics are at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on December 15, 2021.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1,108 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest Julie Noonan, who is an executive coach and CEO of Julie Noonan Consulting, LLC, transformational change leader, speaker, consultant, and futurist. Julie's career in business started in Banking, working her way up to VP of Training for First Union National Bank, and Senior VP and Training Director at Key Bank. She started her career as a learning consultant at Ernst and Young's Center for Business Knowledge.

Today Julie is mixing it up, encouraging what she calls 'switch mentoring' getting young and old cohorts of workers to knowledge and wisdom share. In the conversation we explore Julie's comment 'people are emotional beings that occasionally think.' We explore the messy business of human relations and corporate layoffs wherein Julie has coached business leaders through hard times. We explore 'how to deal with the messiness of people, and the emotional baggage of people as business coaches and leaders. We go at length in a discussion about the business layoff process and getting leaders to feel and think ahead during this time.

Julie has worked with some of the US largest companies in creating centers for excellence, and most recently a center for the adoption of AI in the workplace. We explore how 'boomers' need to continue to learn, and particularly learn from younger generations, to stay employable, creative, and marketable at the sunset years of their careers. In the interview, we explore Julie's mantras, favorite questions, and outlook on life and coaching.

More on the topic is available at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 21 December 2022.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the first edition of Arete Coach Podcast where we explore the art and science of executive coaching with host Severin Sorensen. Our guest is Richard Bosworth, Master Coach and CEO, WhatIfForums.com. The interview was recorded April 27, 2020. Sadly, Richard passed away on August 26, 2020. This video is made in memoriam to Richard, and listeners will want to especially listen to the last 5 minutes where Richard responds to the question.... how will you measure your life?.

Copyright © 2020 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1034 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Don Myers.

In this episode, Don Myers talks about his journey as an executive coach and Vistage Master Chair, and what he has learned as the "Power of Referrals" and building a referral culture. Don is an Executive Coach, CEO Coach, Leadership Strategist, and Master Chair, and Vistage Chair for over 19 years. He has 9 Chair Performance Awards for Chair Excellence. Don has a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Indiana University Bloomington and an MBA in Finance from the Keller Graduate School of Management. Prior to Vistage Chairing, Don was a Sr VP with a REIT called CWS Communities Trust that developed and managed home communities throughout the US. Prior to this experience, Don was VP of Security Capital Group that helped other real estate companies raise capital and form other real estate-related REITS (like Carr America and Prologis). Don’s earliest business role was in Marketing for IBM where he served for 8 years in their business development arena selling hardware and software solutions for hospitals and medical centers. The part of Don’s formative years that I find so interesting is his 3 years in the US Navy as a Lieutenant JG and a “Main Engines Officer” on the USS Newport News (a heavy cruiser) and USS America (Aircraft Carrier). He also completed two tours in Vietnam. So there is much wisdom and experience to explore here in terms of Don’s background.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on May, 24, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this episode titled "Mastery in Motion — Journey to Coaching Excellence and Leadership Impact," Severin speaks with Dr. Wai K Leong, an accomplished ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC), ICF Global Board Director, and Founder of JMC Coach Mastery Academy.

Recorded on December 20, 2024, this conversation explores Wai K’s journey from corporate leadership to coaching mastery, and his influential role in building coaching cultures across Asia and beyond. Recognized as the first Malaysian to receive the MCC credential and a member of the ICF Circle of Distinction (2019), Wai K shares powerful lessons for leaders and executive coaches seeking excellence.

Wai K Leong’s career began in education and corporate leadership, including significant roles at Intel and the Hong Leong Group, before he transitioned fully into coaching. His early leadership challenges sparked a deep interest in coaching methodologies, greatly influenced by the teachings of Thomas Leonard.

In 1999, Wai K founded the JMC Coach Mastery Academy, establishing one of ASEAN’s first ICF-accredited institutions with all four accredited coaching programs. His authored works — including Empowering Asian Mindsets Through Coaching — blend coaching mastery with cultural intelligence, empowering leaders to drive transformational change.

Key Insights

1. Mastery Beyond Tools: Transforming the Self

Wai K emphasizes that true coaching excellence requires a personal transformation — not just mastering techniques, but deep inner work, developing self-awareness, and practicing courageous presence.

2. The Power of Staying Curious

He illustrates the importance of "remaining in a state of not knowing," allowing deeper client truths to emerge without rushing to conclusions, a hallmark of masterful coaching.

3. Narratives Shape Leadership

Wai K teaches that problems are symptoms of deeper assumptions and beliefs, and coaches must guide clients to reframe unhelpful narratives for true progress.

4. Cultural Bridges in Coaching

Addressing the differences between Eastern and Western mindsets, Wai K shares strategies for adapting coaching approaches across cultures, fostering reflection even where expressiveness may not be culturally natural.

5. Lifelong Development and Reflection

From mastering presence to reinforcing healthy boundaries, Wai K champions continuous personal development as the foundation of lasting coaching impact.

Closing & Copyright Information

This episode of the Arete Coach Podcast featuring Wai K Leong, MCC was recorded on December 20, 2024, via Zoom video.

The Arete Coach Podcast explores the art and science of executive coaching. You can find more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

© 2024 Arete Coach. All rights reserved.

To learn more about Wai K’s work, visit JMC Coach Mastery Academy or connect with him via LinkedIn.

This is Arete Coach Podcast Episode 1143, with host Severin Sorensen bringing you an engaging episode titled Arete Coach Podcast Episode 1143 Uta Birkmayer "Rocketing Authenticity, Curiosity, and Purpose for Greater Happiness and Health."

In Episode 1143 of the Arete Coach Podcast, host Severin Sorensen engages in an enlightening discourse with the multifaceted Uta Birkmayer. Uta, a distinguished alumna of Cornell University with a Masters in Hospitality and a BS in Hotel Management, further accentuates her academic pedigree with an executive charette in design from the Harvard University School of Design.

Beyond her educational accolades, Uta wears many hats: she's an executive coach, founder of Xsense, leadership coach, mastermind group leader, nutritional therapist, dynamic business executive, entrepreneur, advocate for life, health, and happiness, and a former Vistage Chair. Central to her coaching philosophy is a commitment to guiding her CEO clients towards discovering and nurturing their authentic selves.

Embark on a journey that traces Uta's relentless spirit, summed up in her mantra: "don't tell me I can't do it." From her upbringing in Germany to her pivotal decision to pursue academics at Cornell, we navigate through the serendipitous encounters and unwavering tenacity that have marked her path. Experience the expanse of Uta's career in the hospitality realm, where her prowess as a Hotelier shines, primarily through her influential roles in Japan, China, and Germany.

Delving deeper into the concept of authenticity, Uta believes in its holistic embrace, stating, "Authenticity is not just the good stuff. It's also the stuff that many developers want to hide." This belief remains foundational to her work, where she lends spaces a deeper context, enriching them with meaning, and realigning their purpose. Her current venture, the Rocket Mastermind groups, is a testament to her innovative approach, where she seamlessly melds her diverse expertise.

Join us as we unpack the essence of her mastermind groups, explore the metaphor of voyaging on a rocket ship, and get a glimpse of the groundbreaking tools she employs to design unparalleled experiential learning journeys for her CEO clientele. This episode beckons those eager to weave authenticity with purpose, all in the pursuit of attaining unparalleled happiness and health.

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on July 13, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In this engaging episode of the Arete Coach Podcast, titled "From Engineering Expertise to Master Chair Leadership," host Severin Sorensen interviews Susan Motkaluk, a visionary leader, Master Chair, CEO, and Board Advisor with TEC Canada. With over 25 years of experience spanning civil engineering, project management, infrastructure innovation, and executive coaching, Susan brings a rich interdisciplinary perspective to leadership excellence. Recognized for her work in sustainable development and awarded for her contributions by the United Nations, Susan shares her insights on coaching, leadership, and building communities of excellence.

Susan’s journey into executive coaching is a testament to curiosity, resilience, and lifelong learning. An early achiever in engineering and leadership roles, Susan led large groups in the oil sands and public sector positions, including as a Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Recognizing gaps in leadership tools early in her career, she sought mentors who became instrumental in her growth.

Her engineering background, particularly first principles thinking developed at the University of Waterloo, became the cornerstone of her coaching philosophy—encouraging structured problem-solving, curiosity, and assembling diverse teams.

Today, Susan channels her passion into leading TEC Canada peer groups, running her company SDM Inc (Sustainable Development and Monitoring), facilitating leadership alignment workshops, and serving on private company boards, helping leaders and communities grow sustainably.

Key Insights

1. Coaching Rooted in First Principles and Curiosity. Susan blends engineering problem-solving techniques with deep curiosity, helping clients move beyond surface-level issues to uncover root causes and achieve sustainable success.

2. The Power of Mentorship and Community Building. Susan credits much of her success to mentors she actively sought out. She stresses that leaders must not only create but recognize opportunity—and that belonging and connection are crucial antidotes to the epidemic of loneliness in leadership roles.

3. Alignment as the Heart of Effective Leadership. Building and aligning leadership teams around shared values and purpose is central to Susan’s work. She champions “carefrontational” conversations—honest yet compassionate dialogues that drive deeper connections and actionable insights.

4. Courageous Leadership and Authenticity. Susan emphasizes the need for courage in leadership: telling the truth with care, remaining authentic, and making bold decisions even when misunderstood.

5. AI and Decision-Making in Leadership. While recognizing AI’s ability to optimize decision-making processes, Susan insists that human intuition, gut instincts, and the spark of original ideas remain irreplaceable. She promotes a balance between data-driven tools and human ingenuity.

Memorable Quotes

1. "If you don't know, somebody might know—so keep asking and surround yourself with great people."
2. "You have to see the invisible to do the impossible."
3. "Opportunity is a blessing, but recognizing it is a skill."
4. "Alignment happens when everything clicks—and that’s when the real magic starts."

The Arete Coach Podcast explores the art and science of executive coaching. You can find more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on March 10, 2025.

Copyright © 2025 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1049 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Zachary Green, author of Warrior Entrepreneur.

This past week in America we celebrated Veterans Day, a day set aside each year to give thanks and honor to our veterans for their bravery, sacrifice, and love for their country. The pathway for veterans to move from active duty military service into the private sector is challenging for some, and I wanted to highlight today examples of how veterans provide high-value culture, courage, curiosity, and integrity needed in our businesses today. And I invite you to explore how to create opportunities in the companies you work with to provide open windows of opportunities for our Vets. 

In this episode, I speak with Zachary Green who is a former US Marine, serial Entrepreneur, and author of the Warrior Entrepreneur. Zachary is a graduate of Bowling Green State University. He is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and was a lieutenant with his local fire department. Zachary is the founder and former CEO of MN8 LumAware/Foxfire. Zachary grew the company from the trunk of his car to over $30MM in organic sales and $5MM in venture funding. The product line is now distributed by The Home Depot and counts the US Government, Walmart, Kroger, General Electric Aircraft Engines, and Procter and Gamble as customers. Zachary has testified in front of the US House of Representative Small Business committee and was named Entrepreneur of the year by Governor, John Kasich. Zachary was also selected by the Obama White House as one of 10 entrepreneurs to represent the United States at the Global Entrepreneur Summit. Zachary’s new book, Warrior Entrepreneur was released in September of 2021, and in the first few weeks, it launched to bestseller status on Amazon in several categories and countries. 

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on November 15, 2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1059 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Paul Martin who lives in Saskatchewan, Canada. Paul is an executive coach, TEC-Canada Chair (part of Vistage International), a Journalist and Business News Commentator, host of MyNewsRoom.CA, and Chairman of Martin Charlton Communications. Paul's business commentary is heard on 15 Saskatchewan radio stations. In addition to reporting the news on business, Paul is also an executive coach. Paul has been coaching CEOs and key executives for 20 years in Canada. Paul is also Chairman of the board for the economic holdings of the English River First Nation.

In this podcast interview, Paul talks about how his journalism background helps him 'go deeper' in asking questions. He shares his journey into executive coaching and his formative years as a journalist. He talks about how the news media has changed. He explores the relation of Canada, with the USA, China, and the economy. In thinking about his life he has this advice to others, "don't chase decaffeinated: go for high octane."

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on December 9, 2021.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1079 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Doug Bouey who lives in Calgary, Canada. Doug is a business consultant, executive coach, Vistage/TEC Canada Chair Emeritus, and author of Fixing Fractures: Restoring Shattered Relationships in Business and in Life. Doug has been the president and principal consultant of Catalyst Strategic Consultants Ltd. since 1986. Prior to coaching, he worked as an attorney. Doug uses a wide range of tools and approaches to help his clients overcome their challenges and “amplify their arcs of success.” Doug has over 30+ years of service as a TEC-Canada / Vistage Chair. In 2010, Doug received the Don Cope Award for his service in TEC/Vistage. He is also a co-founder of Keepers of the Flame, a gathering of senior Vistage Chairs and Chair Alumni.

In the interview, we explore the roots of Doug's life journey into coaching, the foundations for his book on Fixing Fractures, his experience as a Gazelles Coach, and we explore many other nuances of business coaching and life lessons on the art and science of executive coaching.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on April 27, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1071 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Jason Thompson who lives in Salt Lake City, Utah. Jason is co-founder and managing partner of Axíes Group, and an executive coach, Vistage Chair, CEO, mentor, author, and speaker. Jason has advised numerous companies in the areas of strategy and execution from Fortune 500, mid-market, and start-ups across many industries throughout the US. Jason helps leaders transform the way they see themselves, their organizations, and those they serve. In 2021, Jason and his business partner Bill Leider became best-selling authors with their book, “Mastering Your Balance.”

Topics explored in this podcast episode include Jason's early background, his coaching journey, the difference between consulting and coaching, his experience co-authoring his book, his Balanced Organization Assessment, discussion on Emotional Fortitude,, working with silence, and Silence prioritizing time. He shared that sometimes he worked for cash pay, and other times for the value of a tomato when the experience itself was pay enough.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on February 28, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1155 of the Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen, MPhil, the curator and host of the Arete Coach Podcast that seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. In this special episode, we identify and celebrate the "Top 60 Executive Coaching Podcasts of 2023."

As of this release, there are over 3,232,976 unique podcast programs and 182,565,866 episodes worldwide. That's an 8 percent increase in programs and 177% increase in episodes.

Navigating the sea of podcast offerings to determine the best ones takes time and energy that many don't have to spend. Part of our mission at AreteCoach.io is to research, assess, and curate actionable data for the executive coaching community. In the podcast, we describe the source and method of executive coach podcast identification, selection, screening, and ranking of the podcasts.

This episode explores what data analysis, content analysis, Google search, ListenNotes, Apple Podcasts, RSS feed monitors, podcast backlinks, citation indexes, and ChatGPT research and other data can tell us about the 60 Best Executive Coaching Podcasts of 2023. Showcased in this episode are well-known, new, and niche podcasts for the executive coaching community.

The Arete Coach Podcast episode AC 1155, recorded on December 3rd, 2023, presents a special year-end episode focusing on the 60 best Executive Coaching Industry podcasts of 2023. The episode, hosted by Severin Sorensen, an executive coach and curator of the Arete Coach Podcast, is not a review of the podcast's own content but an extensive examination of the entire coaching industry's podcast content from 2023. This exploration is aimed at identifying learning opportunities from the past year that might serve listeners in the future, encompassing various books, research, and training made available in 2023.

At the conclusion of the episode the host shares five insightful quotes reflecting the essence and impact of podcasts. These quotes highlight how podcasts transform wisdom into accessible insights, bridge the gap from curiosity to clarity, weave a tapestry of diverse experiences, motivate listeners to learn, grow, and lead with purpose, and unravel complex ideas, making wisdom deeply felt and understood

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on 3 December 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1082 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach David Mead, who is a speaker, management consultant, and co-author of Find Your Why: A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team. This book co-authored with Simon Sinek and Peter Docker has 400,000 copies in print, and is published in over 24 languages.

In this episode, we explore David's own "why", and his passion for helping companies overcome cultural dissonance. He talks about his formula for trust, and how company leaders should spend more time living and being, and less time materially doing their company culture. David shares his journey into management consulting and coaching, and his experiences working for and co-authoring with Simon Sinek. In our conversation, we wander through David's life experiences and learn more about him, his purpose, passion, and desire to do good to help others. In the interview, when David was asked, if he were to write a title for the name of his autobiography, he replied, "the much taller hobbit" and we explored this figurative musing about his life and journies and people he has met along the way.

Discover more on these topics at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on March 17, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen with an episode titled, "The Art of Breakthrough Leadership." In this episode, recorded via phone, we are joined by Brian Biro, widely known as America's Breakthrough Speaker. With nearly 2,000 presentations delivered globally, Brian has inspired audiences from Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, Starbucks, and Lockheed Martin to leadership teams in the U.S. Army. A graduate of Stanford and UCLA, Brian's remarkable career spans roles as an award-winning swimming coach, former VP of a major transportation company, and transformational speaker. He is the author of 16 books, including the bestseller "Beyond Success," and was honored as one of UCLA's 100 Most Inspirational Graduates.

In this engaging conversation, Brian shares his journey from coaching swimming at the highest levels to becoming America's Breakthrough Speaker. His career transformation began when he pursued an MBA to "get a life" – a decision that led him to meet his wife and eventually transition into corporate leadership. As a vice president of a transportation company, Brian discovered his talent for breaking down silos and building teams through inspirational speaking. This experience launched his speaking career, where he has touched over a million lives in 35 years through his unique approach to breakthrough experiences, including his signature board-breaking exercises that serve as powerful metaphors for personal transformation. Brian's philosophy centers on three key areas: vision (focusing on what we want to create), energy (understanding that our energy is a choice), and relationship building (fostering trust through full presence and authentic connection). His commitment to helping others break through barriers and achieve their highest potential perfectly aligns with the Arete Coach Podcast's mission of exploring excellence in leadership and coaching.

Brian's comments on The Power of Presence in Coaching were an important component of this conversation. Brian emphasizes that the foundation of effective coaching lies in being fully present. He argues that presence is not just about physical attendance but about bringing 100% of your mind, body, and spirit to each interaction. This level of presence communicates value and significance to clients, building the trust necessary for transformational coaching relationships.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on November 12, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1045 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, where this special episode focuses on 'golf and business."

There have been 301 research-based studies of golf exploring the health impacts of golf on the human body. Thankfully golf is healthy like a walk in the park, and in this episode, we examine briefly the beneficial health impact of golf on the executives and players generally, then we dive into golf as a metaphor for business and the lessons we can learn as executive coaches. Lastly, we review 10 sage and coachable business golf etiquette reminders to make your business golf outings more valuable, pleasant, and rewarding. Memorably, portions of this episode were recorded on location at the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club on Oahu, Hawaii shortly after finishing a challenging and rewarding round of golf.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on October 21, 2021.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1017 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Jim Lindell, who is a CPA, CSP, CGMA, MBA. Jim is an executive coach, Vistage/TEC Chair (of 19 years), Best Selling Author, and most recently the author of a Wiley and the AICPA published book, the “Controller as Business Manager." In addition to exploring Jim's life journey in coaching, in this episode, we discuss the important business and financial metrics that executive coaches and business leaders should be mindful of to run their companies paying attention to the metrics that matter most.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 2/15/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1091 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Ben Griffin from Baltimore, MD, who now lives in Florida. Ben is an executive coach, board advisor, and Founder and President of CEOIQ.  Prior to entering the coaching business, Ben was an entrepreneur and an executive in multiple commercial insurance industry and IT service businesses. He started coaching first as a TEC Chair and later went on to found his current coaching business: CEOIQ. Ben earned his MBA from the Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College.

In the interview, we explore Ben's life journey into coaching, his hard lessons learned in business, and the lifelong learnings that have brought him to be one of the great coaches of our day. We explored topics of managing the business during inflationary times, the risk of unbridled corporate growth, KPIs to manage your business, the unintended consequence of words, and many other issues relevant to business owners and coaches. When not coaching, Ben is an avid photographer and has traveled the world seeking that 'perfect' shot, and he describes the work of his new book (in writing) looking through the 'leadership lens.' This and much more awaits the listener inside the episode.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on August 12, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In the Arete Coach Podcast episode 1154 "Formula One and the Art of Leadership: Lessons from the Track," host Severin Sorensen explores the dynamic world of Formula One (F1) racing and its parallels to business leadership and management. Drawing upon his experience as an executive coach and his personal experience from attending the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Sorensen delves into how the high-stakes, fast-paced nature of F1 racing mirrors the challenges faced in the corporate world. He emphasizes the importance of precision, strategy, and innovation, demonstrating how these key aspects of F1 are integral to successful business leadership. The discussion highlights how the meticulous preparation, team dynamics, and relentless pursuit of excellence in F1 provide valuable insights for executives and leaders in various industries.

Throughout the episode, Sorensen touches on a range of topics that align the worlds of F1 racing and business leadership, from the critical role of teamwork and communication within F1 teams to the impact of technology and research and development in the sport. He discusses the significance of data-driven decision-making, risk management, and adaptability, underscoring their relevance in both the racing and business environments. The podcast also sheds light on the importance of brand building, customer engagement, and creating memorable experiences, drawing lessons from the F1 teams' approach. Sorensen's reflections offer a unique perspective on leadership, emphasizing the parallels between the high-octane world of Formula One racing and the strategic, operational, and managerial facets of running a successful business.

Topics explored include:

1. Parallels between F1 racing and business leadership.
2. The role of innovation and continuous improvement in F1.
3. Teamwork, communication, and collaboration in F1 teams.
4. The importance of data-driven decision-making and strategy in F1.
5. Lessons in brand building and marketing from F1 teams.
6. Risk management and adaptability in the F1 environment.
7. The impact of technology and R&D in F1.
8. The significance of customer engagement and fan experience in F1.
9. Insights into F1 teams' structure, conduct, and performance.
10. Personal narratives and experiences of F1 drivers and teams.

"Success in F1 is about clarity of roles, trust among team members and flawless execution."

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on November 24, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast, hosted by Severin Sorensen. In this special episode, titled '"Eclipse Serenade: Solar Eclipses Through the Lens of History, Science, and Song"' recorded on April 8, 2024, Severin takes us on an enlightening journey into the world of solar eclipses. Severin explores the phenomenon from multiple perspectives – scientific, historical, and metaphorical. The episode is a unique blend of personal reflection, scientific information, and philosophical insights, culminating in a series of original songs inspired by the solar eclipse. Unlike traditional episodes, 'Eclipse Serenade' stands out for its creative approach to dissecting and understanding this captivating celestial event.

Severin Sorensen shares his experience of witnessing the solar eclipse while flying, igniting a thought-provoking discussion about eclipses. He presents fascinating facts about solar eclipses, like their types, frequency, and historical significance, including their role in scientific advancements such as Einstein's theory of general relativity. Severin reflects on historical events coinciding with eclipses, like the Battle of Halys and Columbus using an eclipse in 1504. He also explores the metaphysical aspects, drawing parallels between the sun and religious symbols, and delves into the realms of positive psychology. The episode culminates in a creative exploration, where Severin, using AI assistance, composes songs that capture the essence of the eclipse, blending scientific observations with spiritual insights.

The sun not only sustains our physical world but also illuminates our spiritual path, guiding us through cycles of life and enlightenment.

Four new songs were created and introduced in this episode, listed by order of appearance.

Eclipse of Wonder

Eclipse Serenade

The similarity of the Sun and the Son

The Sun and the Son

The first two songs were prompted by Severin Sorensen, using Suno AI as the musical collaborator and artistic director.

The last two songs were written by Severin Sorensen, after exploring the nuance, history, and importance attributed to solar eclipses. The lyrics structure was improved by ChatGPT4 and thereafter edited by Sorensen.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on April 8, 2024.

Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1020 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Theresa Merrill, an executive career development coach and Linkedin Job Search Strategist. Theresa helps C-level executives, executive coaches, and job seekers build their professional brand on LinkedIn; increase their online visibility and network to generate leads. In the episode, we explore candidate resumes, LinkedIn profile strategy, career development, career branding, job interviewing, and salary negotiations. A consistent theme in the episode is: Why LinkedIn is a necessity for your career.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 3/11/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1050 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, and we explore 'The Great Resignation or The Turning Away From, and Turning To… Trend."

Popular news sources report that employees are leaving the workplace in mass and looking for new jobs. They call it the great resignation. What is going on, why are employees leaving? Are all employees leaving? And what can employers do to stop the unwanted regrettable resignations of employees? The episode explores the facts related to the great resignation, and offers executive coaches and employers some suggestions on how to attract, retain, and care for your talent. We review what top employers (e.g., Google, Apple, Netflix, Facebook) and others are doing, and what small businesses can do to make their work places more attractive to employees.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on November 28, 2021.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1086 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Jim Alampi who lives in Clarkston, Michigan. Jim Alampi is the founder and chairman of Strategic Execution Accelerator, Execution Maximizer, an award-winning Vistage speaker, executive coach, and founder and owner of Alampi and Associates LLC.. Before investing his time in the executive coaching industry, Jim was the CEO of three public companies ranging from $325 million to $1.5 billion. Today Jim works with CEOs, executives, and boards of directors, teaching them how to get from their vision to execution and results. Jim has received TEC and Vistage speaker of the year awards in Canada, the United Kingdom, and globally. Jim focuses on his expertise in strategic leadership, organizational development, and executive management.

In the interview, we explore Jim's journey from the CEO suite to executive coaching. We also explore his recent book writing project, and we explore his business models and acumen. He speaks of "Distilling Complexity Into Simplicity" and the need for execution. He shares a few of his 21 business tools for CEO and company success.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on June 28, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1077 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach David McKnight, who is an executive coach, image consultant, personal brand strategist, speaker, author, and change management specialist. In this episode we explore "Leveraging Executive Brand, Image, and Presence" and David's journey in executive coaching and his 'executive make-over' business.

David McKnight is a Certified Professional Coach and Energy Leadership Master Practitioner with iPEC Coaching. He is also the CEO and President of McKnight Image Lab, where he provides a unique combination of image consulting and executive coaching. Through McKnight Image Lab, David helps professionals transform their professional presence, personal brand, performance, effectiveness, and productivity. Before starting McKnight Image Lab, David was a management consultant with companies such as Ernst & Young, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and eLoyalty. He has also held several positions such as Head of Change Management, Global Head of Business Architecture and Solution, Sr. Enterprise Integration Manager. David has also worked as an image consultant within the fashion industry. From these experiences, David has combined his love for style with his corporate knowledge and started helping business leaders through executive coaching and image consulting. He has been featured in The New York Times, New York Post, The Huffington Post, and INC. Magazine. He has helped leaders from Verizon, Goldman Sachs, American Express, Spotify, and many other leading brands. He is also the author of, “The Zen of Executive Presence. Learn more about executive presence and other coaching topics at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on March 9, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1058 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Cathy Fitzhenry who lives in Omaha, Nebraska. Cathy Fitzhenry is an executive coach, Vistage Chair, Author of the book "Heartbeat: Why Heart-Based Leadership and Courage Matter," and Active board member of the H.E.R Circles Weekend. She is also President of CSF Marketing Services and a former author and co-editor of a popular business summary books-on-tape business.

In the episode, Cathy shares her journey into coaching and her serendipitous life journey from 'clowning around' as an entertainer in her youth, to reading people, situations, and emotions in her coaching practice. Cathy is a giver and a high-intuitive with a keen sense of discernment and she shares her all in this interview from her best questions, powerful coaching moments, and what drives her today.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on November 22, 2021.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to episode 1134 of the Arete Coach Podcast! Join your host, Severin Sorensen, for a captivating dialogue with our esteemed guest, Dr. Benjamin Ritter, a renowned executive leadership and career coach. Dr. Ritter is the driving force behind Live For Yourself Consulting, and the head of talent development and organizational culture at Teknova. With over a decade of experience guiding clients from companies like Amazon, Coursera, DoorDash, Google, Fiserve, Northwestern, Pinterest, and Yelp, he is adept at assisting senior executives who grapple with uncertainties about their career path, executive presence, and self-perception of success.

Live (defined as Life Intentions, Values, and Expectations) For Yourself Consulting, under Dr. Ritter's leadership, empowers these individuals to fine-tune their professional brand, bolster their leadership skills, enhance their executive presence, and design a career trajectory that resonates with their purpose. Dr. Ritter is also known for his educational offerings, such as "Be the Leader of Your Own Career," "Create a Career You Love," "The Three Cs of Self Leadership," and "The Team Model." He also hosts the Live for Yourself podcast and is a globally recognized speaker and facilitator of talent and leadership development workshops.

Dr. Ritter holds a doctorate in education focusing on organizational leadership, value alignment, and job satisfaction, complemented by his MBA in entrepreneurial management and an MPH in health policy administration. His research has been published in prestigious journals like the International Journal of Healthcare Management and the Journal of Global Leadership. He has also gained valuable insights from his tenures at Torch, Better Up, and YPO. His considerable experience in fostering healthy organizational cultures and steering executives towards their future goals make him an invaluable guest on the Arete Coach Podcast, where we delve into the art and science of executive coaching.

In this episode, we delve into various aspects of coaching, including one-on-one sessions, refining client's thoughts through powerful questioning, and emphasizing delivering excellent work rather than merely task completion. We also discuss the role of AI in coaching and much more. Tune in to this illuminating conversation filled with actionable insights!

The Arete Coach Podcast aims to uncover the art and science of executive coaching. Learn more about the podcast at aretecoach.io.

This Podcast interview was recorded on February 27th, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1066 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and guest coach Rodica Obancea, MCC who lives in Romania. Rodica is an ICF Master Certified Coach, Mentor Coach, Executive Coach, Team Coach, Leadership Coach, and Serial Entrepreneur. Before entering the executive coaching industry, Rodica was a Professor of Management at CEFORA Business School and an HR Manager for a retail company. In 2008, Rodica was VP for the EMCC in Romania. In 2016 Rodica founded Lideerolgia where she serves as a senior executive coach. She is also a co-founder of Great HR Community, a platform to transform the Romanian labor markets.

In the episode, we talk about Rodica's journey and insights in coaching such as 'dance with me' in the coaching setting, the Great Resignation, Digital Nomads, her ICF accreditation journey to MCC, and much more. Discover more on these topics are at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on December 21, 2021.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

In the Arete Coach Podcast episode 1157 the "Heart and Soul of Chairing" host Severin Sorensen interviews senior executive coach Ozzie Gontang. Ozzie is a masterful executive coach, a Vistage COPE Award winner, counselor, and psychotherapist. Based in San Diego, California, he has significantly contributed to the fields of leadership and executive coaching, both nationally and internationally. Gontang, who has practiced psychotherapy since 1976, is also an experienced lecturer on intensive cardiac rehabilitation with UC San Diego Health, a role he has held since 2018. His extensive background includes being a prominent Vistage chair from 1986 to 2002, earning notable recognition like the COPE Award in 2001. Additionally, Gontang holds a Ph.D. in psychology and is an avid marathon runner, having completed an impressive 81 marathons.

In this engaging episode of the Arete Coach Podcast, host Severin Sorensen converses with Ozzie Gontang, a distinguished executive coach and Vistage COPE Award winner. The discussion, titled "Heart and Soul of Chairing," delves into the intricate aspects of executive coaching, exploring themes such as mentorship, resilience, and the transformative journey of self-discovery, akin to Odysseus' odyssey. Gontang, with his profound experience in psychotherapy, imparts valuable insights on active listening, empathy, and the significance of humor in coaching. The episode also touches upon the art of improvisation and the importance of maintaining integrity and values in the coaching profession. Through vivid metaphors and personal anecdotes, Gontang vividly illustrates the multifaceted role of a coach in guiding and nurturing business leaders. This episode offers a treasure trove of wisdom for both seasoned and aspiring coaches.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on December 19, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1095 of the Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen and his executive coach guests Michele Barry, Ben Griffin, Barry Goldberg, Phil Holberton, and Conor Neill. In this episode, we present a special panel discussion of senior executive coaches that explores how to prepare for a Recession, and specifically, 10 things to take with you into a hard recession. The purpose of putting this episode together was to provide sage counsel for CEOs, business owners and coaches who are coaching other business owners on how to prepare for a probable recession, and one that may indeed be a hard recession.

In the episode, we explore, What is a recession? [1:13]; What Does A Recession Feel Like? [10:38]; What 10 Things Would You Take Into A Hard Recession? [29:07]; Final reflections from panelists [1:13:23]; and lastly, Severin summarizes the session [1:17:50] and ends with a few inspiring quotes to consider. Share this episode with executive coaches, business coaches, leadership coaches, business owners, entrepreneurs, CEOs, Key Executive teams, and anyone wanting to have a headstart in preparing for what looks like more than a portent of stormy weather ahead.

[A disclaimer and warning; in this episode, panelists on the podcast share their deepest insights and past actions they have taken during hard recessions. Several offer their 'to-do' list for preparing for a recession such as securing cash for operations. Listeners are advised to seek their own financial and legal counsel before implementing any suggestions offered in this program.]

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on October 7, 2022 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is the Arete Coach Podcast with Severin Sorensen, with an episode reviewing his groundbreaking book for executive coaches, entrepreneurs, business owners, CEOs, Key Executives, and their employees titled, “The AI Whisperer: Handbook for Leveraging Conversational Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT for Business.” A book available today at Amazon in Paperback and Kindle:

https://tinyurl.com/The-AI-Whisperer

The terms "AI whisperer” or “ChatGPT whisperer" are informal, colloquial expressions used to describe people who have an exceptional ability to interact with and understand ChatGPT, and other generative conversational AI language models.

The information here in the book will help individuals, entrepreneurs, CEOs, executives, and their employees take the waiting out of wanting to implement AI. 

The person with such ability, can tap into the advanced knowledge of the model's inner workings, strengths, and weaknesses, effectively communicating with artificial intelligence to obtain relevant and accurate information or insights. The terms are derived from the concept of a "horse whisperer" or "dog whisperer," people known to have a unique talent for communicating with and understanding animals.

 With this podcast I invite you to listen in to business coach, and AI Whisperer Severin Sorensen as he gives you the tools for taking advantage of AI platforms like ChatGPT, all with an eye toward business applications for the non-technical reader.

"The AI Whisperer: Handbook for Leveraging Conversational Artificial Intelligence & ChatGPT for Business" by Severin Sorensen is a game-changing guide for non-technical business leaders looking to harness the power of conversational AI.

In this book, Sorensen draws on his extensive coaching expertise to provide a unique perspective on questioning, enabling readers to access the creative content and power of conversational AI. With over 50 business use cases for AI, each described with a synopsis and 10-20 keyword prompts for specific work-related tasks or queries, readers will learn where AI excels and where they need to watch out for errors.

Containing over 1,000 useful chat prompts and instructions for executing specific business objectives, "The AI Whisperer" is a must-read for anyone looking to take advantage of AI platforms like ChatGPT. From drafting and editing marketing copy to launching a new business, Sorensen's book provides practical and actionable advice for leveraging AI to improve operations, increase creativity, and achieve business success.

Sorensen's focus on ethical considerations and the potential of AI to create numerous new opportunities is a refreshing perspective that showcases AI as a blessing to mankind, increasing human potential. His reminder that AI will not take your job, but rather, someone who knows how to use AI will, inspires readers to be proactive and take control of their own destiny.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on April 17, 2023.

Copyright © 2023 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1011 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Barry Goldberg, PCC. Barry is an Executive Coach, Vistage Chair, and former faculty member of the Leadership Coaching Program at Georgetown University. Barry is insightful, sage, and perceptive and came to executive coaching after a career in Management Consulting including work for the Naisbitt Group – authors of Megatrends and Reinventing the Corporation. He also served early in his career as an executive coach with Marshall Goldsmith Partners (2006-2009). Barry is a former Vice-Chair of the ICF Global Ethics and Standards Committee. 

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on 1/08/2021 via Zoom Video.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

Welcome to the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen and his guest Gail Schaper-Gordon, Ph.D. In this episode, Severin speaks with Gail, a Vistage Executive Coach, business psychologist, organizational consultant, and experienced CEO. Gail has 22 years of experience as a successful CEO and business leader, having founded and run several small to mid-market professional service companies, including Aegis Psychological Corporation and Behavioral Health Information Management Systems, which were cornerstones of a behavioral health care delivery system of more than 500 mental health care providers serving a quarter of a million individuals. She received her Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of California and her Ph.D. in Psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.

In this engaging conversation, Severin and Gail explore her pathway into executive coaching, her Vistage Chair practice, and her passion for business psychology. Gail shares her approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability in both personal and professional life. She discusses the power of leaning into one's uniqueness and embracing different perspectives to drive change and create value. Gail also highlights the significance of deep listening and empathy in coaching, describing her method as being fully present and listening from a deep feeling place. Throughout the discussion, Gail's commitment to continuous learning and growth shines through as she shares her passions, heartaches, and the many ways she contributes her mindshare, wisdom, and energy to others. This episode aligns perfectly with the Arete Coach Podcast's mission to explore the art and science of executive coaching.

Gail Schaper-Gordon's memorable quotes r capture key insights from the conversation.

"The best questions and the most powerful questions are the ones that I don't even remember asking and that people come back and tell me about them."

"You learn that you take your time, you find your right space to grieve, and then you go back. It's not about being consumed by grief. It's about continuing with life and managing all that."

"My why is to make sense so that people with us why observe about elements of every situation and make sense out of them. They take complicated or what may appear to be complicated factors, problems, concepts, and organize them to create solutions that are sensible and easy to implement." -

"I think that I've learned that the less my opinion is expressed in a group, the less that they hear what my idea of a solution would be in a group meeting. And the more that I listen and give them the space, the better."

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This interview was conducted on November 23, 2021, via Zoom Video. Copyright © 2024 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1055 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen on 'Hiring Talent in an Age of Talent Scarcity" or alternatively Navigating the Silver Tsunami and the Automation Imperative..

There is an extreme shortage of skilled knowledge worker talent, and many buyers of talent, where labor bargaining power is surging, and prices for talent are increasing rapidly. What are businesses leaders to do, and how can executive coaches reframe the problem from – hiring talent – to addressing a larger systemic issue and need: how to adapt to the silver tsunami of the aging worker population and the demographic cliff. The data clearly show there are more open jobs now than there are people to fill them. The episode closes with twenty (20) timely hiring strategies for business owners, executives, and the coaches that coach them. More on the topic is available at AreteCoach.io.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was produced on January 1, 2022.

Copyright © 2022 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.

This is episode 1024 of the Arete Coach Podcast with host Severin Sorensen, and guest Lane Monson. founder of Platinum Circle Coaching. Lane is an executive impact coach and personal strategist, who provides coaching and mastermind peer groups for corporate executives and for entrepreneurs. Lane’s pathway to coaching was through his career as a corporate executive and leader in the technology and healthcare sectors.. Some of his high profile roles were Group Vice President at Oracle, , Global SVP at Infor Global solutions, and CEO of Aviacode, a cloud delivered medical coding company. During his tenure in these leadership positions, Lane took a keen interest in the work of the Leadership Circle and the Habit Finder Group and decided to pivot his career to coaching and consulting. In this episode, Lane talks about his experience with the 'call' of coaching and his passion for excellence and making a difference.

The Arete Coach Podcast seeks to explore the art and science of executive coaching. You can find out more about this podcast at aretecoach.io.

This episode was recorded on 12 April 2021.

Copyright © 2021 by Arete Coach™ LLC. All rights reserved.