This week's episode takes on toxic positivity, not to bash optimism, but to untangle when “staying positive” actually blocks honesty, safety, and real change in coaching relationships. Erin and Elana explore how coaches can hold nuance, complexity, and emotion without rushing clients toward silver linings.

What “toxic positivity” really is—and why it often comes from self-protection, not bad intent

How positivity can quietly disconnect clients from what they’re actually experiencing

Why emotional grit is often easier to coach than polished optimism

How coaches may unintentionally signal which emotions are “allowed” in the room

The subtle difference between respecting a client’s readiness and pushing for depth

What it actually takes to create a space where clients don’t have to edit themselves

This conversation is especially relevant for coaches working with leaders, founders, and high-functioning clients who’ve learned to keep it together at all costs. For full show notes visit: https://besuperabound.com/coachingmixer/ep-16-the-hidden-cost-of-staying-positive