What if the biggest thing holding you back isn’t what you don’t know—but what you’re avoiding?

In this episode, Michael Pottern sits down with executive coach Robert McNaughton to explore the hidden cost of inaction. From difficult conversations to leadership under pressure, Robert shares why the time between decision and action is the most expensive gap in business—and in life.

They unpack the tension between “being” and “becoming,” how avoidance shows up in CEOs and teenagers alike, and why presence isn’t passive—it’s the foundation for real change.

This conversation weaves together personal story, leadership insight, and a deeper look at how we confront (or avoid) what matters most.

If there’s something you’ve been putting off… this episode might be your invitation.

7 Key Takeaways

• The awareness–action gap is where most people get stuck Knowing what to do isn’t the problem—doing it is.

• The most expensive mistake is delay Time between decision and action directly impacts outcomes.

• Difficult conversations are unavoidable—and essential Avoidance compounds problems across relationships and systems.

• Presence is not passive—it’s transformative Being fully present creates clarity, connection, and better decisions.

• Leadership requires emotional courage Growth often means confronting discomfort, not bypassing it.

• Attachment is foundational to healing Whether in CEOs or teenagers, connection drives change.

• Integration matters more than insight Insight without action doesn’t create transformation.

This conversation is an invitation. Not to do more, but to notice more. To recognize where you already know the next step, and gently move toward it. Presence isn’t an escape from action, it’s what makes action possible.