Welcome to Professional Christian Coaching Today with Chris McCluskey and Kim Avery, a weekly podcast dedicated to informing, inspiring, and equipping Christians in the art and science of professional-grade Christian coaching. Along with cutting-edge content, you'll hear great interviews with guests such as Dan Miller, Michael Hyatt, Dr. Gary Collins, Kary Oberbrunner, Dr. Marilee Adams, Dr. Richard Swenson, C.J. Hayden and more. Our goal is to raise the standard in coaching and change the world.
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June 9, 202631 min
From Calling to Clients - #455
Marketing your coaching can feel overwhelming, especially when every platform, expert, and algorithm seems to be shouting a different set of instructions. Should you post more? Network more? Launch something? Create a download? Start a podcast? Before long, the calling that once felt clear can get buried under pressure, comparison, and a very loud list of "shoulds." This conversation brings a welcome sense of clarity and calm. You'll hear a grounded, practical approach to building a coaching business without hype, gimmicks, or frantic self-promotion. Instead of chasing every strategy, you'll be invited back to a few timeless principles that help you build trust, serve generously, and take the next faithful step toward the clients you're called to serve. Connect with Kris Kelso and get your free inventory: Hats Exercise: A Guide to Mastering Your Many Roles as a Solopreneur KrisKelso.com/hats --- 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
May 12, 202637 min
Growing Your Coaching Practice with Associates with Sylvia Laurence - #454
What does it really look like to grow a coaching practice beyond "company of one"? In this episode, we talk with Sylvia Laurence, founder of Trevero, about scaling with associates, navigating rapid post-Covid growth, and the hard lessons that shaped her leadership along the way. From overstaffing and pruning to narrowing her niche within the Chick-fil-A ecosystem, Sylvia shares how clarity, focus, and decisive action created traction that broad marketing never could. If you've ever considered expanding your practice, this conversation offers grounded wisdom. You'll hear why growth often comes through pruning, how to market with precision instead of noise, and what leaders must learn internally before bringing on associates. Connect with Sylvia Laurence: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvialaurence/ --- 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
April 14, 202634 min
Ai and the Future of Coaching: Should Coaches Be Worried? - #453
The future of coaching is changing fast. But not in the way you might think. In this episode, we slow down the conversation around AI and take a thoughtful look at what's actually ahead. You'll walk away with clarity, a steadier sense of your place in it all, and a deeper confidence in what truly matters in coaching. * Understand four possible futures shaping coaching by 2036 * See how AI may expand coaching without replacing it * Identify the skills that will become more valuable over time * Feel grounded in your role as a coach in a changing world 2026 ICF Coaching Futures Report: icfcoachingfuturesreport.com/ International Christian Coaching Day Resources: professionalchristiancoaching.com/day --- 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
March 10, 202637 min
Coaching Through Suffering #452
Suffering eventually walks into every coaching conversation. The question is not whether it will appear, but how we will respond when it does. In this thoughtful and grounded conversation, we explore what it means to stay present with clients in seasons of pain without rushing to fix, rescue, or theologize too quickly. You'll hear practical wisdom for normalizing hardship, honoring the limits of the coaching lane, and holding fast to the redemptive hope of our faith while remaining deeply attuned to the human experience in front of us. In this episode, you'll gain: * A clearer framework for coaching clients who are walking through deep suffering * Confidence in staying present without trying to "solve" the pain * Insight into when to refer to counseling and how to recognize those indicators * Encouragement to anchor your coaching in Scripture without becoming directive * A renewed vision for how suffering, held in faith, can lead to transformation --- 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
February 10, 202632 min
Coaching From a Place of Presence #451
Presence lies at the center of both professional coaching and Christian formation. This episode explores presence not as a technique or coaching skill alone, but as a disciplined way of being. For Christian coaches, presence is where ICF-aligned professionalism and faith come together rather than compete. In coaching, presence means being fully engaged, comfortable with not knowing, able to work with silence, and responsive rather than reactive. Spiritually, Scripture reveals God as a present God. From the burning bush to the ministry of Jesus, transformation flows from attentive presence, not hurried action. The conversation addresses a key truth: we cannot be present with clients beyond the level we are present with ourselves. Stillness, surrender, and self-awareness shape our ability to hold space for others. Practical reflections highlight what Christ-centered, client-centered presence looks like in real sessions, including honoring boundaries, resisting advice-giving, trusting the process, and allowing insight to emerge in its own time. --- 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
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 -- 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 --- 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
December 9, 202529 min
A Few of Our Favorite Things: Episode 4 #449
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. --- 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
November 11, 202531 min
Coaching Neurodiversity: A Physician's Journey with Mary Jones, M.D. #448
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 --- 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
October 14, 202530 min
Align Your Life with God's Design #447
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 --- 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 --- 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 ---
September 9, 202529 min
Growing a Successful Leadership Coaching Practice #446
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/ --- 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
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