In this inspiring kickoff episode, Kirsten Dierolf introduces us to the philosophy of social constructivism and how it transforms coaching from a tool-heavy method into a light, respectful, and client-centered conversation. She shares insights from her own coaching journey, explains the distinctions between solution-focused, narrative, and collaborative coaching, and demonstrates a powerful live coaching session exploring flexibility, self-validation, and leadership presence.

Key Learning Points

Social constructivism views reality as co-created, making coaching a collaborative space for growth rather than expert-driven intervention.

Solution-Focused Coaching focuses not on fixing problems but on envisioning and moving toward a client’s preferred future.

Letting go of coaching “tools” allows deeper connection, presence, and trust in the client’s own resourcefulness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to a Lighter Coaching Philosophy

00:57 Guest Introduction: Kirsten and Her Coaching Philosophy

02:31 Kirsten's Coaching Journey and Early Influences

04:48 Intercultural Experiences and Social Constructivism

07:21 Exploring Social Constructivism in Coaching

11:39 Practical Applications of Social Constructivism

19:18 Different Coaching Approaches: Solution-Focused, Narrative, and Collaborative

24:03 Demo: Addressing Flexibility in Coaching

30:26 Balancing Leadership and Openness

31:56 The Miracle Question Technique

35:09 Embracing Playfulness and Learning

41:47 Applying Solution-Focused Coaching

46:09 The Philosophy Behind Coaching

53:31 Closing Thoughts and Future Insights

References & Resources Books Mentioned

Coaching Plain and Simple – Peter Szabo & Daniel Meier

Solution Focused Team Coaching (New Edition) – Kirsten Dierolf et al.

Meditations – René Descartes

Works by Judith Butler, Heinz von Foerster, Paul Watzlawick, Ernst von Glasersfeld

Links

Learn more about Solutions Academy - https://www.solutionsacademy.com/

Get your coaching tools: https://www.metafox.eu

Connect with Kirsten Dierolf - https://de.linkedin.com/in/kirstendierolf

Story of the Chinese Farmer by Alan Watts - https://www.craftdeology.com/the-story-of-the-chinese-farmer-by-alan-watts/