Leaps of Faith: Embracing Change and Empowering Leadership

Special Guest:  Natasha Speets

 

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In this episode of "Live Into Your Best Life," I had the pleasure of welcoming Natasha Speets, a remarkable leader and founder of a global training organization. Our connection dates back to 2020, when Natasha served as my teacher, inspiring me with her ability to cultivate a community of positive, like-minded individuals.

Natasha's journey began as a teacher for children with special needs, eventually evolving into a coach and trainer specializing in leadership and agile methodologies. We explored her unique experience using dolphins as therapy animals, highlighting how interactions can significantly influence personal development. Natasha advocates for self-awareness and empathy in leadership, emphasizing the importance of recognizing rather than eliminating biases.

We dived into the crucial distinctions between management and leadership, discussing the delicate balance leaders must maintain between control and empowerment. Natasha illustrated how starting with a clear vision and taking small steps fosters confidence and collaboration within teams. In the current leadership crisis, where meaningful change often conflicts with organizational pressures, empathy and understanding of the broader ecosystem are vital.

The conversation also touched on my own journey into Agile coaching. Recognizing a gap between my coaching skills and Agile methodologies, I immersed myself in Agile literature and sought to create an online community for discussion and growth. The pandemic accelerated this initiative, allowing me to reach a wider audience. However, I soon realized the necessity of building a dedicated team to tailor our programs effectively.

A memorable anecdote involved coaching someone navigating a challenging relationship with their cat. Instead of focusing solely on the cat's behavior, we explored deeper emotional issues, reinforcing that true coaching is about personal growth.

As we wrapped up, we emphasized the importance of open communication in parenting, building a foundation of knowledge for our children, and encouraging them to make informed decisions. I encouraged listeners to follow their passions and make smart decisions, always keeping an open heart and mind. Join us as we continue this journey of growth and exploration together.

Check out all the great work Natascha is doing at https://theagilecompany.org/ and connect with her on LinkedIn.