In this episode, we drop in with Joel Monk and Ellen Waenink, who hosted us in their lovely community-oriented neighborhood in Amsterdam.

Joel is the CEO and co-Founder of Coaches Rising, a company that creates deep, transformative training programs and insightful podcasts for coaches. They are deeply committed to help evolve the field and practice of coaching.

Ellen’s work is about creating spaces where people can truly meet: themselves, others, the unfolding moment and life. Here, transformation happens not through force, but through the beauty of connection and trust in what arises. She calls it a natural unfolding.

In this conversation, we’ll explore the extraordinary aspects of their relationship, emphasizing radical acceptance and evolutionary growth. They discuss the ways in which they support each other’s individual and collective journeys, balancing autonomy and togetherness.

The couple shares insights on how they keep their connection vibrant through intentional practices and maintaining an open heart. The dialogue also explores the challenges and rewards of navigating vulnerability, the importance of curiosity, and the role of love and freedom in their relationship.

The conversation concludes with reflections on the broader implications of relationship dynamics for personal growth and coaching.

Guest Links & Resources:

Coaches Rising

Ellen Waenink

Circling

Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson

Nonlinear Movement Method by Michaela Boehm

Reflections Episode & Worksheet soon to come:

In the coming weeks, we will release our Reflections episode where we reflect on the key moments, insights, and practices that stood out in our conversation with Joel and Ellen. In our reflections episode, we share:

* Observations and highlights from the original conversation & experience.

* Personal insights from Andrew and Danielle on applying these principles in daily life.

* Practical ideas and exercises you can try to deepen the connection in your own relationships.

The Reflections episode & Worksheet are an intimate companion to the main interview—designed to help you process, integrate, and embody what was discussed. These are only available on Substack via paid subscriptions.

Get full access to Extraordinary Relationships Podcast at extraordinaryrelationships.substack.com/subscribe