When most people think about persuasion, they go straight to education (“if they just understood, they’d agree”), inspiration (“let me tell you an inspiring story”), or force (“do this now”). 

But there’s a big difference between persuasion, influence, power, and warmth — and understanding that difference can change how you get things done. 

This episode, inspired by a fable I read to my son, breaks down why subtlety often beats force, how warmth can shift behavior faster than pressure, and what that means in real-world situations. 

Whether you’re a manager trying to get buy-in, a coach pushing for compliance, or anyone who needs to move people from point A to point B, you’ll get practical takeaways you can use immediately.

Don’t forget:

You’re never going to get better at dealing with challenging personalities—or improving your own communication—unless you actually come practice it in a hands-on setting.

Check out one of our live, immersive workshops at:

www.artofcoaching.com/events

Upcoming Workshops:

And to stay sharp, subscribe to our newsletter at:

www.artofcoaching.com/begin

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

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These days, it feels like everyone is calling someone a narcissist.

Ex-partner? Narcissist. Difficult boss? Narcissist. Confident stranger on Instagram? Must be a narcissist.

The term has been thrown around so loosely that it’s lost its meaning—and worse, it’s become a lazy way to avoid reflection or real understanding.

In this episode, we cut through the noise and get to the core of what narcissism really is—and what it isn’t.

You’ll learn:

If you’ve ever struggled to deal with someone manipulative, overly self-focused, or exhausting to be around…

Or if you’ve ever wondered “wait… am I the problem?”—this one’s for you.

Don’t forget:

You’re never going to get better at dealing with challenging personalities—or improving your own communication—unless you actually come practice it in a hands-on setting.

Check out one of our live, immersive workshops at:

www.artofcoaching.com/events

And to stay sharp, subscribe to our newsletter at:

www.artofcoaching.com/begin

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

Have you ever gotten a negative review on something you've made or your business?

Received a one-star rating?

Dared to venture into the comment section—or worse—overheard someone trashing your work?

It’s a law of the universe: haters are inevitable the moment you take a stance, make yourself visible, or grow in ways that challenge others' comfort or self image.

In reality, most hate isn’t really about you. It’s what you represent.

You’re the one who took the risk.

You’re being seen. 

You’re being recognized.

And that shakes the stands they’re still sitting in—watching, critiquing, but never stepping foot in the arena themselves.

This episode will help you separate noise from feedback, ugliness from something worth reflecting on, and how to tell when criticism should be used as locker room motivation—or ignored entirely.

In today’s show, Brett will address this long overdue and fascinating case study in human nature, and cover:

If you’ve ever found yourself doubting what you’re doing because of someone’s throwaway comment...

Or if you’ve ever wondered whether to clap back, make adjustments, or just put your head down and move forward—this one’s for you.

Whether you love the episode or hate it (see what we did there), we love hearing from you. If you have any questions you’d like answered or want to hear more about a certain topic, shoot us an email at [email protected].   

Let’s be honest—most workshops leave you with a notebook full of tips and no real plan for change. Ours are built different.

At Art of Coaching, you won’t just sit and take notes. You’ll engage in real scenarios—role-plays, peer feedback, video breakdowns, and live evaluations—designed to help you sharpen your communication, think on your feet, and handle tough conversations with more clarity and control.

Whether you’re dealing with a passive-aggressive coworker, trying to be more assertive without burning bridges, stuck in tension at home, or just tired of second-guessing yourself socially or professionally—we can help.

This is potent personal and professional development that actually sticks. No fluff. No filler.

We offer multiple pricing tiers and discounts—reach out at [email protected] and we’ll help make it work for you.

Upcoming Workshops:

🔗 artofcoaching.com/events

Real Coaching for Real Life

Let’s be honest—everyone says they want growth, but putting in the work? That’s where most people just stick to what’s comfortable..

That’s why we created a mentoring service built for the real world. Whether you’re stuck on a professional decision, starting a business, writing a book, dealing with pressure at home, or just trying to get out of your own way—we can help.

This isn’t therapy. And it’s not a rah-rah, feel-good session either. It’s direct, tailored coaching from people who’ve been in the trenches—leaders, operators, educators, business owners. Our team of 15 comes from a wide range of backgrounds, so you’re matched with someone who understands your world and knows how to push you forward.

Everyone needs a coach.

🔗 artofcoaching.com/mentoring

Related Episodes:

E387 | How to Deal With Defensive People Who Project

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

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Wait... when did this become my fault?

Why do I feel like I’m being indicted? 

That’s not at all what I meant when I said that. 

I have no idea how we got to the point where I’m the one feeling guilty.

We’ve all been in this situation before. You thought you were having an honest conversation—but somehow, things flipped. Now it’s uncomfortable.

You must have said something that offended them… right? 

But did you? 

How did what you said get twisted into that? And now, out of nowhere, you’re the bad guy.

People can be simple, complex, complicated, and convoluted—all at the same time. Sometimes we send a clear input through someone, and because of ego, insecurity, or other unresolved stuff, it comes out the other side as something completely different, leaving them defensive. Now they’re projecting. And now you’re stuck dealing with the fallout.

It’s more common than ever in the world we live in today—so let’s break it down. What kinds of tactics can we use to lower the temperature and get back on solid ground? How can we preemptively shield ourselves and make sure the signal doesn’t get lost in the noise?

In this episode Brett covers:

Let’s be honest—most workshops leave you with a notebook full of tips and no real plan for change. Ours are built different.

At Art of Coaching, you won’t just sit and take notes. You’ll engage in real scenarios—role-plays, peer feedback, video breakdowns, and live evaluations—designed to help you sharpen your communication, think on your feet, and handle tough conversations with more clarity and control.

Whether you’re dealing with a passive-aggressive coworker, trying to be more assertive without burning bridges, stuck in tension at home, or just tired of second-guessing yourself socially or professionally—we can help.

This is potent personal and professional development that actually sticks. No fluff. No filler.

We offer multiple pricing tiers and discounts—reach out at [email protected] and we’ll help make it work for you.

Upcoming Workshops:

🔗 artofcoaching.com/events

Real Coaching for Real Life

Let’s be honest—everyone says they want growth, but putting in the work? That’s where most people just stick to what’s comfortable..

That’s why we created a mentoring service built for the real world. Whether you’re stuck on a professional decision, starting a business, writing a book, dealing with pressure at home, or just trying to get out of your own way—we can help.

This isn’t therapy. And it’s not a rah-rah, feel-good session either. It’s direct, tailored coaching from people who’ve been in the trenches—leaders, operators, educators, business owners. Our team of 15 comes from a wide range of backgrounds, so you’re matched with someone who understands your world and knows how to push you forward.

Everyone needs a coach.

🔗 artofcoaching.com/mentoring

Related Episodes:

E313 | How To Communicate With Someone Who Shuts Down or Stonewalls

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

It can be one of the most frustrating things in the world.

That discontent and confusion about your professional life and where it’s headed.

The feeling that keeps you up at night, scrolling job postings, revisiting all the “what if’s” from your past, and daydreaming about a complete 180 you’ve always thought about, but never acted on.

Staying in this mental space doesn’t just drain your energy, it leaves you lost, confused about your future and what a step forward even looks like.

Whether you’re burnt out, fed up with the bureaucracy, or simply craving a new challenge—

This episode will cut through the worry and wishful thinking as Brett lays out:

🔥 SUMMER SALE IS ENDING SOON! 🔥

Don’t wait. The Art of Coaching Summer Sale is almost over! No matter your learning style, setting, or any other constraints—take the next step and join our AOC family. Visit artofcoaching.com/summersale to lock in:

💻 30% OFF all Online Courses

🤝 10% OFF all Live Events

📱 Art of Coaching Membership

🎯 Whether you’re a coach, leader, mentor, or someone in transition—there’s never been a better time to invest in your development. Stop waiting, take action!

Related Episodes:

E376 | Tips If You Feel Stuck at Your Job and Need a Way Forward

E242 | Annie Duke: Quit! - The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away

Related Resources:

VAU(ED) and Blindspot - If you loved this episode and want to dive deeper, both of these courses were designed specifically for this topic.  And they’re still ON SALE (ACT FAST!)

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

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Nothing will haunt you like the things you leave unsaid.

It’s a bold statement, and a chilling one—but unfortunately, most of us know exactly how true it is.

You owe it to them and to yourself to speak the truth about what they mean to you. No matter the regrettable things you’ve said or done to each other... the failures, the absences, the apologies never given, or the love you didn’t express—it needs to get out.

We’ve covered a wide range of topics since launching this podcast, but this one stands out as an evergreen.

It’s a conversation that will withstand the test of time and deeply resonate with YOU.

In this episode, Brett shoots straight from the heart and will explain:

🔥 SUMMER SALE EXTENDED 🔥

Don’t wait. The Art of Coaching Summer Sale is officially extended, but not for long. No matter your learning style, setting, or any other constraints—now is the time to take the next step and join our AOC family. Visit artofcoaching.com/summersale to lock in:

💻 30% OFF all Online Courses

🤝 10% OFF all Live Events

📱 Art of Coaching Membership

🎯 Whether you’re a coach, leader, mentor, or someone in transition—there’s never been a better time to invest in your development. Stop waiting, take action!

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

“Is there anything I can do to help?”

It’s interesting and unique how we’ve all been asked this question by a spouse, friend, co-worker, or boss—but it never feels like that question leads to you getting actual help. It often feels like answering that question will cause you even more issues. 

But, people are asking it with good intentions, so how can we actually seize this moment and get some relief from the overload?

We’re always told as leaders that we need to delegate, delegate, delegate—so how can we respond to this request without adding to our overwhelm?

In today’s episode, Brett is going to give us all the answers—and much more—to this age-old question we all somewhat cringe when we hear.

Lean in as he covers:

Iron Sharpens Iron

You say you want to be the best—then stop avoiding the conversations that actually test you.

The Apprenticeship is fully interactive. We throw you into live, role-play scenarios and teach you how to navigate real conflict, difficult personalities, and power dynamics with clarity and control. No fluff. No theory overload. Just gritty, practical reps that expose your blind spots and sharpen your communication under pressure.

Everyone could use some help—and if you're part of the audience we focused on in last week's episode, you'll even earn 1.6 CEUs!  Come see us in:

One of our most popular offerings, for the married, divorced, dating, or anyone who wants to show up better in the relationships that matter most.

We cover real stuff: communication strategies, attraction styles, love languages, parenting, money—and yes, even the topics usually left behind closed doors. Nothing’s off-limits.

🗓️ November 3 – December 2

*Bonus: It’s also our most affordable course—so if you’ve been looking for a low-pressure, high-value way to go deeper with our material (whether you’re partnered up or preparing for “the one”), this is your chance.

Join the waitlist now!

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

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This isn’t personal, but it’s been a long time coming.

This episode is aimed directly at the legacy industries of Art of Coaching, Strength and Conditioning, and let’s throw overall fitness in there too. If you work in high performance, physical therapy included, you’re included. 

We know everyone deals with some version of this, but we’re speaking to the world we know best. The message?

Most of you say you want to be the best.

Most of you say you’re “in it for the right reasons.”

But you’re not.

You’re full of shit.

You’ve built a self-serving feedback loop—one that props up your ego and avoids any real discomfort. You’ll do anything but face your actual weaknesses. You whistle past the graveyard, pretending it’s all about the best exercises, protocols, or the next certification. 

You could have the greatest program in the history of the world, but if you can’t work with the humans executing, it means nothing. 

Today’s episode will hit each listener differently. Some will take it as a wake-up call. Others will feel like they’re getting roasted. And a few of you might even hear it as a love letter—meant for a group of talented people who are in desperate need of a gut check.

Turn it up, as Brett pulls no punches covering:

The Apprenticeship

You say you want to be the best—then stop avoiding the conversations that actually test you.

At The Apprenticeship, we throw you into live, high-stress role-play scenarios and teach you how to navigate real conflict, difficult personalities, and power dynamics with clarity and control. No fluff. No theory overload. Just gritty, practical reps that expose your blind spots and sharpen your communication under pressure.

Because if you can't lead a conversation, you’re not leading anything.

Follow Us:

Website: ArtofCoaching.com

Instagram: @coach_brettb

X: @coach_brettb