Few things sharpen a coach's skills more than listening in on a real coaching session guided by MCC-level insight. In this episode, you'll hear an actual recording from Bryan Brown, MCC, a session that was part of the portfolio he submitted for his Master Certified Coach credential. His calm presence, precise questions, and steady partnership offer a rare look at coaching mastery in real time.

Along the way, Cindy Schmelzenbach, MCC, provides thoughtful commentary that highlights what's happening beneath the surface. She draws attention to the subtle skills Bryan uses to evoke awareness, empower choice, and hold space for deep transformation. Whether you're an experienced coach or still growing your confidence, this combination of live coaching and expert reflection will equip, inspire, and expand your understanding of what truly excellent coaching can sound like.

About Cindy Schmelzenbach, MCC Cindy has a passion for supporting coaches in personal and professional development journeys. Having lived internationally in leadership roles for 27 years, she's energized by diverse cultures and human experiences. These experiences enhance her coaching interactions significantly.

Cindy holds her ICF MCC credential and is a certified Mentor Coach and Coach Supervisor. Additionally, she's a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach with an MA in Counseling. She serves as Director of Education at Professional Christian Coaching Institute, an ICF accredited level 1 and level 2 provider.

In her private practice, she offers life coaching, CliftonStrengths coaching, ICF mentor coaching and coach supervision. Learn more at: https://coachingwithcindy.com

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About Bryan Brown Bryan Brown, MDiv, PCCis the President and Founder of Coaching To Lead, LLC. With 25 years experience in developing leaders, Bryan enjoys increasing the capacity and confidence of emerging leaders as well as coaching established leaders to maximize their influence. Bryan also enjoys using his experience to work with teams on strategic planning and team development. Bryan studied Human Resource Management at Samford University then received his M.Div. from Birmingham Theological Seminary. As a missionary, pastor, entrepreneur, husband and father, he has learned to apply the principles of Biblical leadership and team development in multiple contexts.

Bryan currently serves as the International Leadership Director at Perimeter Church in Atlanta, working with pastors and church leaders who seek to ignite movements of Life on Life Missional Discipleship around the world. In this role, he has the privilege to regularly train and coach leaders in Australia, South Africa, and Brazil among others. Bryan also engages leaders through his private coaching practice, www.coachingtolead.com, to clarify and intentionally pursue their callings. His passion and experience is coming alongside leaders to accelerate their growth and influence, while at the same time maintaining their personal health and enjoying the opportunities before them.

Bryan is also the developer of Trusted Leader 360 °a Christ-centered 360° tool designed to help leaders grow in emotional intelligence, relational trust, and lasting impact

The Coaching Process diagram: www.professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

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Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ultimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

What if the best parts of the year were not the biggest ones, but the quiet gifts of God hidden right in plain sight?

In this fourth "Favorite Things" conversation, we pause to look back before we look ahead. Not to count achievements or tally wins, but to name the ordinary graces that formed us. The tables that gathered people. The roads that reopened after seasons of waiting. The work that surprised us with joy. The callings that deepened instead of diminished.

Threaded through it all is the goodness of God. The steady gift of family and friendship. And the quiet force of coaching as it shapes leaders, ministries, and everyday lives from the inside out. This episode is an invitation to slow down long enough to remember. To notice what God has done. To give thanks for what did not have to happen but did.

Before the year turns, let gratitude open your eyes to the grace that has been carrying you all along.

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Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ultimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

When you walk into a doctor's office, you expect medical expertise, but what if you also experienced deep listening, hope, and the dignity of being truly heard? That's the kind of care Dr. Mary Jones offers.

As a pediatrician and coach, she weaves together her medical background and coaching skills to help families navigating neurodiversity, especially ADHD and autism, rediscover direction, peace, and renewed faith in what's possible.

In this episode, Dr. Jones shares how coaching has transformed both her practice and her perspective. From listening with curiosity instead of rushing to diagnose, to creating space for the Holy Spirit to work in every encounter, her story reminds us that presence can be the most powerful prescription of all.

Key Takeaways:

• Listening with curiosity restores dignity, clarity, and hope

• Healing often begins when someone feels seen and heard

• A coach approach helps professionals serve the whole person-body, mind, and spirit

• Even a few moments of intentional presence can make a lasting impact

About Dr. Mary Jones As a pediatrician, my mission is to ensure every child on the autism spectrum is recognized, supported, and celebrated as early as possible. I am committed to fostering early and accurate diagnosis, empowering families through education and resources, and advocating for a world where every child's unique potential is embraced and nurtured.

Learn more about Dr. Mary Jones at www.brighstartshealth.com

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Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ultimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

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What if the noise of modern life is not just making us tired but actually keeping us from the God we long for?

We live in a world where the average person checks their phone 96 times a day and our attention span has dropped nearly 25 percent in the last twenty years. No wonder so many feel disconnected, distracted, and spiritually dry. Yet beneath the hurry and distraction lies a deep ache for God, a longing to know His peace, His wisdom, His presence.

In this conversation, we explore: * Why listening to God and others is more urgent than ever in a noisy, fast-paced world * The hidden expectations and rhythms that can sabotage our spiritual practices * What neuroscience and research reveal about our circadian rhythms and how they shape creativity, focus, and connection * The difference between grace-filled adjustments and simple convenience * Small, doable shifts that create space for God in ordinary days

You will come away with practical ways to align your spiritual practices with your God-given wiring, questions to use in coaching, and a hopeful reminder that stillness and presence with God are not only possible but are what He designed you for.

And if you would like to take the next step, download Grace Breaks. This set of 50 simple, beautifully designed cards includes Scripture, neuroscience tips, and quick practices to help you pause and reconnect with God in as little as five minutes.

www.paceofgrace.com/free

Complimentary Resources:

Align Your Life Inventory www.professionalchristiancoaching.com/inventory Grace Breaks: 50 Ways to Connect with God During Your Busy Day www.paceofgrace.com/free

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Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ultimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

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What does it look like to grow a thriving coaching firm?

In this episode, you'll hear the inspiring story of a mother and daughter who followed God's lead, honored their unique gifts, and built something larger than themselves. What began as separate career paths eventually came together into a firm that serves both individuals and organizations with clarity, creativity, and purpose.

At the heart of their work is the belief that when people flourish, organizations flourish. Whether they are equipping executives with fresh strategies or helping new employees grow in confidence, their approach is deeply relational and intentionally grounded in listening-to God, to life, and to the people they serve.

In this episode, you'll discover: * How to know when it might be time to grow beyond a solo coaching practice * Why relationships are essential to building a sustainable business * What it takes to invite other coaches into your vision with clarity and trust * Encouragement to pay attention to your gifts and listen to the life you are actually living

This conversation offers both practical insight and spiritual encouragement for coaches who are building something meaningful, one faithful step at a time.

Ready to make a greater impact in the corporate world? Explore the Corporate Impact Association (CIA) at www.45degrees.org/cia and discover how to grow your influence and effectiveness. Use coupon code "Insider" to save $100.

About Brooke Terrell, CEO 45 Degrees Coaching, LLC As CEO and Certified Professional Coach at 45 Degrees Coaching, Brooke empowers clients and coaches to unlock full potential and drive sustainable impact within organizations. With 15 years of senior leadership experience in a fast-paced industry, she deeply understands the unique challenges and rewards of leaders at all levels, from C-Suite executives to emerging professionals. Brooke brings a unique blend of creativity, empathy and focus to coaching, guiding others on a journey of self-discovery and growth. Whether coaching a seasoned executive, onboarding new coaches to the 45 Degrees team, or leading a creative management group, Brooke brings clarity, direction and self-awareness empowering others to create a plan and take action. About Diane Overgard, Founder 45 Degrees Coaching LLC Diane is the Founder of 45 Degrees Coaching, providing individual and business team coaching to local, national, and international clients since 2004. She knows how adults learn and quickly establishes an energizing environment of trust and respect, with enough light-heartedness to encourage clients and other coaches to open up, have fun, and try new behaviors. As a seasoned executive coach with a background in Adult Education, Diane understands that success in a professional life is enhanced by making a personal life incredible. To be truly successful at work, your "other" life has to work as well, and Diane knows what motivates people to make decisions and change behaviors. She empowers others to add more energy and satisfaction both at work and at home.

45 Degrees Coaching Website: https://www.45degrees.org/

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Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ultimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

What does it really take to become a professional coach? In this episode, you'll hear the story of one coach who transitioned from a high-level corporate and nonprofit career into a thriving part-time coaching practice designed to fit her life and values. If you're wondering how to get started, how to build gradually without overwhelm, or how to align your coaching with your faith, this conversation offers clarity and practical guidance. In this episode, you'll discover:

• A real-life example of how to transition into coaching from another profession
• Why starting slow can be a smart strategy for long-term success
• How to market your coaching services without pressure or expensive campaigns
• What makes professional training worth the investment
• How to build a sustainable business that supports your life, not the other way around

You'll walk away with encouragement, practical ideas, and renewed confidence for taking your next step in the coaching journey. About Jenn Nickel, PCC Jenn Nickel is a PCC level life and leadership coach who began her training at PCCI in 2018 and joined the faculty this year. She's had her own coaching practice for 6 years where she partners with for-profit andnon-profit leaders to help them live and lead with intentionality. Before she began coaching, she spent 13 years with a multi-national insurance company in roles ranging from product development to sales and marketing, working with Wall Street and institutional investors. During some of that time, she and her husband Mark lived in Dublin, Ireland for her job. Once her children were born, Jenn moved into a decade of non-profit work in her city where she held various board and staff roles and was chairperson of the board of a non-profit she helped start. Now she gets to utilize her experience in for-profit and non-profit as she coaches leaders in both of those worlds. Jenn did her undergraduate in Public Relations and Marketing at Western Kentucky University and obtained her MBA at Indiana University Southeast. Connect with Jenn Nickel: jlnconsultants.com

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Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ultimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

What if the very skills that make you a great counselor, pastor, or people-helper aren't the same ones needed to help someone grow? Many professionals feel a stirring toward coaching but aren't sure how it differs from what they already do. The overlap with counseling can feel confusing, especially when your heart is wired to support others.

In this episode, we unpack the five core differences between coaching and counseling. You'll gain clarity on what coaching is, how it works, and why it matters. If you've ever wondered how to begin, whether additional training is necessary, or how to navigate dual roles with integrity, this conversation will guide you with insight, practical help, and encouragement. In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why coaching and counseling serve different purposes and how that affects your approach • How to tell which role you're in and why that distinction matters • What motivates coaching clients and how it shifts the conversation • Key ethical and legal considerations for offering both services • What to look for in solid, professional-grade coach training

Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ulimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

As coaches, we know that awareness is the first step toward transformation.

Yet for many leaders, the awareness they most need—the way others actually experience their leadership—remains hidden just beyond their view.

That's why today's conversation with Bryan Brown is so essential.

In this insightful and practical discussion, we'll explore:

• Why feedback is one of the rarest and most valuable gifts a leader can receive

• The critical role coaches play in helping leaders interpret and apply 360° feedback

• Common pitfalls to avoid when using a 360° assessment

• How leadership blind spots can quietly derail influence—and how to uncover them

• Why trust is the true currency of leadership today, and how 360°s can strengthen it

• How often leaders should engage in a 360° feedback process for sustained growth

Bryan also shares a glimpse into a newly developed, Christ-centered 360° tool designed to help leaders grow in emotional intelligence, relational trust, and lasting impact.

If you coach leaders at any level—or desire to—you'll find practical insights, powerful reminders, and tangible tools you can begin applying right away.

About Bryan Brown:

Bryan Brown, MDiv, MCC is the President and Founder of Coaching To Lead, LLC. With 35 years experience in developing leaders, Bryan enjoys increasing the capacity and confidence of emerging leaders as well as coaching established leaders to maximize their influence. Bryan also enjoys using his experience to work with teams on strategic planning and team development.

Bryan currently serves as the International Director for Life on Life at Perimeter Church in Atlanta, working with pastors and church leaders who seek to ignite movements of Life on Life Discipleship around the world.

Bryan also engages leaders through his private coaching practice, www.coachingtolead.com, to clarify and intentionally pursue their callings. He has also developed the Trusted Leader 360° Assessment to help leaders grow in their understanding and effectiveness.

He has been happily married to Jackie for 33 years. Together they have three children – Abbie, Lindsey and Barker – and live in Johns Creek, Georgia, a northern suburb of Atlanta.

Bryan Brown: www.coachingtolead.com Trusted Leader 360: www.trustedleader360.com Coupon Code: PCCI2025

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Start your journey to become a Professional Christian Life Coach!

Connect with an Academic Advisor: https://calendly.com/d/cqkt-5nf-5pw/connect-with-an-academic-advisor?utm_source=podcast

Join the Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/professionalchristiancoaching/

Our gift to you! 15+ Hours of FREE Training "The Ulimate Christian Coaching Bundle": https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/bundle

PCCI Website: https://professionalchristiancoaching.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristianCoaching/videos

As coaches, we know that awareness is the first step toward transformation.

Yet for many leaders, the awareness they most need—the way others actually experience their leadership—remains hidden just beyond their view.

That’s why today’s conversation with Bryan Brown is so essential.

 

In this insightful and practical discussion, we’ll explore:

• Why feedback is one of the rarest and most valuable gifts a leader can receive

• The critical role coaches play in helping leaders interpret and apply 360° feedback

• Common pitfalls to avoid when using a 360° assessment

• How leadership blind spots can quietly derail influence—and how to uncover them

• Why trust is the true currency of leadership today, and how 360°s can strengthen it

• How often leaders should engage in a 360° feedback process for sustained growth

 

Bryan also shares a glimpse into a newly developed, Christ-centered 360° tool designed to help leaders grow in emotional intelligence, relational trust, and lasting impact.

If you coach leaders at any level—or desire to—you’ll find practical insights, powerful reminders, and tangible tools you can begin applying right away.

 

About Bryan Brown:

Bryan Brown, MDiv, MCC is the President and Founder of Coaching To Lead, LLC. With 35 years experience in developing leaders, Bryan enjoys increasing the capacity and confidence of emerging leaders as well as coaching established leaders to maximize their influence. Bryan also enjoys using his experience to work with teams on strategic planning and team development.

Bryan currently serves as the International Director for Life on Life at Perimeter Church in Atlanta, working with pastors and church leaders who seek to ignite movements of Life on Life Discipleship around the world.

Bryan also engages leaders through his private coaching practice, www.coachingtolead.com, to clarify and intentionally pursue their callings. He has also developed the Trusted Leader 360° Assessment to help leaders grow in their understanding and effectiveness.

He has been happily married to Jackie for 33 years. Together they have three children – Abbie, Lindsey and Barker – and live in Johns Creek, Georgia, a northern suburb of Atlanta.

Bryan Brown: www.coachingtolead.com Trusted Leader 360: www.trustedleader360.com Coupon Code: PCCI2025

As coaches, we know that awareness is the first step toward transformation.

Yet for many leaders, the awareness they most need—the way others actually experience their leadership—remains hidden just beyond their view.

That’s why today’s conversation with Bryan Brown is so essential.

 

In this insightful and practical discussion, we’ll explore:

• Why feedback is one of the rarest and most valuable gifts a leader can receive

• The critical role coaches play in helping leaders interpret and apply 360° feedback

• Common pitfalls to avoid when using a 360° assessment

• How leadership blind spots can quietly derail influence—and how to uncover them

• Why trust is the true currency of leadership today, and how 360°s can strengthen it

• How often leaders should engage in a 360° feedback process for sustained growth

 

Bryan also shares a glimpse into a newly developed, Christ-centered 360° tool designed to help leaders grow in emotional intelligence, relational trust, and lasting impact.

If you coach leaders at any level—or desire to—you’ll find practical insights, powerful reminders, and tangible tools you can begin applying right away.

 

About Bryan Brown:

Bryan Brown, MDiv, MCC is the President and Founder of Coaching To Lead, LLC. With 35 years experience in developing leaders, Bryan enjoys increasing the capacity and confidence of emerging leaders as well as coaching established leaders to maximize their influence. Bryan also enjoys using his experience to work with teams on strategic planning and team development.

Bryan currently serves as the International Director for Life on Life at Perimeter Church in Atlanta, working with pastors and church leaders who seek to ignite movements of Life on Life Discipleship around the world.

Bryan also engages leaders through his private coaching practice, www.coachingtolead.com, to clarify and intentionally pursue their callings. He has also developed the Trusted Leader 360° Assessment to help leaders grow in their understanding and effectiveness.

He has been happily married to Jackie for 33 years. Together they have three children – Abbie, Lindsey and Barker – and live in Johns Creek, Georgia, a northern suburb of Atlanta.

Bryan Brown: www.coachingtolead.com Trusted Leader 360: www.trustedleader360.com Coupon Code: PCCI2025