Coaches Corner with Sam Isaacson

Who or what inspired you to do what you do?

I see coaching as a catalyst for systemic kindness, when it's done right. Everything is systemic, and when we slow down to make decisions we take more profound ethical principles into account, as well as the various human and more-than-human systems into account. I find myself drawn towards talking about technology, because it's a foundational aspect of the present and the future; to engage with it with systemic kindness is of critical importance. To play a part in supporting other coaches who carry the work of coaching is a great honour in multiplying that message. 

What do you find the most challenging about your work?

Keeping on top of every new development out there is impossible! I spend a good deal of time staring down the barrel of the most cutting edge of technology, so it's easy to feel overwhelmed with the pace of change. It's also a challenge bringing that information to coaches, many of whom have a preference away from technology for various reasons. There's a very real and meaningful tension in a lot of what I think about.

What's the biggest lesson you have learnt in recent years?

People are more magical than I realise. I'm constantly surprised by people's generosity and kindness. Never underestimate the power of making friends! 

If you could wave a magic wand and have one wish for you or your coaching practice, what would it be and why?

More discipline! I was going to say "more hours in the day", but I know I'd just fill them with more conversations and more writing, when I suffer the most procrastination around administration and record-keeping. 

Tell us a fact that not many people know about you...

I think some people already know this...I write interactive fiction books (under the much more literary name "Samuel Isaacson"), one of which was an Amazon #1 bestseller!