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In this fourth episode in our Apply SPF (Self-Preservation Focus) we explore practical ways to reset our confidence and self-belief. Taking a moment to refresh and enhance our sense of self in and out of the workplace. 

• What3Words exercise helps pinpoint where you are mentally and emotionally right now; follow with Start/Stop/Continue reflection to make empowered changes
• Adopt a growth mindset like a fox rather than a fixed mindset like a panda; reframe "being bad" at something as simply "not practiced yet"
• Understand the learning journey from unconscious incompetence to unconscious competence; practice makes permanent - most skills become comfortable after doing them three times

We also share our daily GAIL practice which is a great way to take a 2 min end of day reflection as you brush your teeth at night. 

A useful listen for those wanting content ideas for themselves or others - as a reminder to look after yourself (as you're the only you!).

This episode is dedicated to all the self-doubters out there x

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In this fourth episode in our Apply SPF (Self-Preservation Focus) we explore 3  powerful mental frameworks to help you rehearse for success rather than ruminate on problems. Always fascinating to learn from different professions, we focus on techniques derived from fighter pilots and air traffic controllers.

• The OODA loop framework (Observe, Orientate, Decide, Act) helps maintain purposeful thinking rather than panic
• Using the BRAIN tool (Benefits, Risks, Alternatives, Intuition, Nothing) to overcome analysis paralysis
• Taking small steps forward like air traffic controllers do when facing large challenges
• The importance of remembering we always have a choice in our perspective

An ideal listen for those wanting to maintain mental clarity during summer downtime. 

This episode is dedicated to all us worriers out there x

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Summer often brings a different timetable and so this latest episode in our 5-part mini-series Apply SPF (Self-Preservation Focus) is about relishing those moments of downtime. Even on a standard day we are said to have 70,000 thoughts whirling around our head and sometimes its tough to just our click our fingers and relax. 

Our 3 practical tips include the 3 Questions to Handle Big Thoughts, Covey's Circle of Influence and the 2000 old Stoic concept of Savouring: instant feelgood moment when we recall past successes and a positive antidote to dwelling. 

Our call to action this week is to work out your Towards/Away From motivators: list 3 things you want more of this summer and plan them in, and 3 things you want less of this summer and plan them out.  

We dedicate this episode to all the over-thinkers out there x

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Our 5-part mini-series Apply SPF (Self-Preservation Focus) is full of practical tips to have the best summer possible in a way that works for you. Even if our body is on a sun lounger on a faraway gorgeous deserted island, our head might still be worrying about the inbox. This second episode is a reminder that it is ok to focus on our own needs and self-care. In fact, it makes us more able to to look after others when we are feeling well ourselves.

3 practical tips include the Six Box Exercise, 21 Packets of Time concept and our very own 'Desire, Capacity, Option' 3-step conversation tool: a guilt-free way to say no to someone else so you can say yes to yourself. 

Our call to action this week is simple but often not easy: list your feelgood activities - do more of these; list your feelbad activities - do less of these. 

We dedicate this episode to all the Carers out there x

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Welcome to our 5-part Apply SPF (Self-Preservation Focus) series where we start with three simple ways to stay fired up instead of burnt out this summer and beyond.

• Plan your day backwards instead of forwards to stay energetic and honour your time boundaries
• Reframe your language from "have to do" to "get to do" for a quick shift from victim to agent mode
• Catch pessimistic thinking using Seligman's method by shifting PPP to TIE

The placebo and nocebo effects demonstrate how our thinking impacts our physical wellbeing; Summer's natural daylight and opportunity can remind us to lighten our mental approach

Our call to action this week is to write a list of all your amazing attributes, what makes you Hot Stuff and to remember that: you matter! 

We dedicate this episode to all the Doers out there x

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In this final episode of our Friendships at Work mini-series, we’re joined by the brilliant Tash Costa-Thomas. Diversity consultant, LGBTQIA+ activist, and former performer, we explore how authentic relationships can transform the way we work, lead, and belong.

Tash shares how her early days on cruise ships (yes, sharing a cabin for nine months!) taught her the power of vulnerability and instant connection,  something that’s often missing in buttoned-up corporate spaces. Together we explore how trust is built through shared challenges, not just shared job titles, and why the strongest workplace friendships often outlive job roles and restructures.

We dive into the evolution of Pride at work, the realities of queer parenting in policy-light workplaces, and why middle managers carry a heavy burden when it comes to inclusion. Tash’s powerful message? Your differences are your superpower, and it’s often the smallest gestures of human connection that create the biggest shifts in culture.

Whether you’re building a team, navigating change, or just feeling a little out of place, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that pulling together, not powering through, is what really creates collaboration.

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In the third episode of our Friendships at Work series, we’re joined by the brilliant Abigail Wilmore — founder of People Flow and former HR leader in the luxury fashion world (think Stella mccartney and Tom Ford). We explore how friendship, connection, and human-first design are reshaping the future of work — not just for employees, but for the HR professionals supporting them.

Abi shares her journey from corporate burnout to creating the People Flow Community — a beautiful, nourishing space for HR professionals to reflect, recharge, and speak openly without masks. It’s a timely reminder that friendships at work don’t always look like pub trips and whatsapp chats;  sometimes, they’re built on safety, shared purpose, and the quiet relief of not having to perform.

We unpack how meaningful connection fuels culture, wellbeing, and resilience — especially in high-pressure roles. Its about putting people before policy; how friendship, flow & self-care is redefining HR.

Abi also offers practical ways for leaders and HR teams to reimagine the future of people strategy, from monthly self-audits to embedding belonging into everyday business.

Whether you're in HR, leading a team, or reflecting on your own friendships at work — this episode will inspire you to prioritise connection and rethink what people-first leadership really means.

As Abi says: "You can’t pour from an empty cup — especially when you're the one holding space for everyone else. HR needs friendship too."

You can connect with Abigail Wilmore via her LinkedIn profile

Find out more about People Flow here

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In the second episode of our Friendships at Work series, we’re joined by Karl Allcoat, a senior leader in construction and architecture, to explore what it really takes to create belonging — especially for those who may not see themselves represented in the majority.

Whether it’s being LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or simply feeling like an outsider in a workplace culture, Karl shares his lived experience and practical insights on building inclusive environments that honour difference, encourage curiosity, and nurture connection. We dive into the idea of “finding your people” at work — and what leaders and colleagues can do to help make that possible.

We unpack tools like Spoon Theory to explore how energy, sensory load, and different processing needs affect how people show up, engage, and interact. It’s a rich conversation about learning to meet others where they are, challenging assumptions (including our own), and choosing to lead with openness rather than certainty.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to foster real belonging — not through token gestures, but through everyday choices that invite people to be seen, heard, and valued.

Expect fresh perspectives, personal truths, and a coaching lens on how to build workplaces where everyone has a place.

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Do you have a work BFF? In this first episode of our 4-part Friendships at Work series, we dig into the surprisingly powerful impact of having friends on the job — and why it’s about more than just sharing a coffee or a lunchtime laugh. Think about any big life event — a wedding, a milestone birthday — and chances are, a current or former colleague is on the guest list. Rather than a nice to have, we explore why friendships are a need to have for sustaining engagement, well-being, and long-term success at work — recognising that friendships come in all shapes, sizes, and strengths.

Backed by Gallup’s landmark research, we unpack how having a best friend at work (Q10 on their famous Q12 survey) correlates directly with higher engagement, lower turnover, safer workplaces, and greater profitability. From fewer accidents to stronger morale and better customer service, it turns out that being friendly pays off — both in short-term outcomes and those career-long magic moments we treasure, especially when we collect lifelong friends among our ex-colleagues.

We share real-world stories where workplace friendships have helped teams thrive — and explore the cultural barriers that can get in the way. It’s not about forcing connection, but about fostering an environment where genuine, trusting relationships can naturally flourish.

Full of practical insights, coaching takeaways, and our signature reflections on the secret to being more human at work; this is a useful listen for anyone looking to lift team morale, build a stronger culture, or lead with a more connected mindset.

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In our special bonus episode, we reflect on the powerful conversations shared throughout our Taking Pride series—bringing together the key themes, insights, and practical takeaways from our four incredible guests.

From understanding the evolving language of gender identity to the importance of authentic allyship, cultural sensitivity, and courageous leadership, we revisit the moments that truly moved us—and the lessons we hope to carry forward in our work and lives.

Whether it was Steph’s reminder to lead with curiosity, Olly’s story of self-definition, Sophie’s call to show up for others, or Bhavna’s wisdom around mindset and multicultural identity—each episode added depth to our understanding of what everyday Pride really looks like.

This wrap-up episode is all about celebrating progress, acknowledging the work still to do, and encouraging you to stay open, ask questions, and keep the conversation going—365 days a year. Its not just about the badge or the lanyard - its about showing up as a human being and for many, our workplaces are our second homes and our colleagues our families. 

Join us on Instagram @secretsfromacoach to share your biggest ‘aha’ moments and the little compassionate moments you’re inspired to make.