Alongsider returns with the change of seasons and some may say turbulent times. If this resonates with where you are, then this conversation may be for you. We meet Dr John Blakey again (see episode 15 2024) and his colleague Glen Duncan - both antidotes to uncertainty who bring hope. Hope and encouragement especially for those of us who are challenged with identifying the next hill to climb and an effective mounting strategy. John shares his vision which builds on his work with 'The Trusted Executive' in his latest book 'Force for good' which was awarded 2025 best book by Relocate. A natural Enthusiastic Visionary (7 on the Enneagram), he says his work is fundamentally about hope and believes that Business is a force multiplier. A Force to create value and good growth locally, regionally and (inter)nationally. It recognises the interdependence and influence of good decision-making - flowing from sound thinking and collaboration. His new venture, 'the Coaching Circle' is a strategic and mature passing on of the baton to ensure that the force multiplier effect is sustained. Join us for a great conversation as we enter this new season - you will not be disappointed.

https://johnblakey.co.uk/the-coaching-circle-by-dr-john-blakey

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/glen-duncan

Welcome to Alongsider. In this episode we explore the art of connection and the science of possibility to redesign the world of work. We meet again guests Emily Hinks and Carola Verschoor, who both describe themselves as "high energy Enneagram 7's" and enthusiastic possibilitarians who see potential everywhere they look. We delve into how our professional landscape has been interrupted, redesigned, and continues to transform. We examine what it truly takes to be effective in today's workplace while maintaining authenticity and joy. As Emily wisely notes, "you don't have to be serious to get serious things done." We celebrate the power of genuine connection and conductivity between professionals who refuse to be confined by traditional boundaries. We explore mentorship, expertise, and professionalism not as restrictive frameworks, but as expansive possibilities for growth and innovation.Chaos is reframed as creative potential waiting to be harnessed. We discover how allowing our individual quirks to become the foundation of our connections and creates pathways for extraordinary energy and achievement. From their initial Amsterdam meeting to 'slinky' metaphors, every story reveals new ways to redesign how we work, connect with clients, and extend our hearts to colleagues. This is about reimagining the world of work through the lens of possibility, connection, and authentic human energy. Join us as we explore what it means to find your place and confidently take your place in a world that's constantly in redesign.

https://nl.linkedin.com/in/carolaverschoor

https://www.emilyhinks.com/

#Alongisider meets Dr. Iain McCormick, a New Zealand-based coach and therapist, who transitioned from hard sciences to a lifelong exploration of human psychology and its workplace applications. His research highlights a compelling insight: successful psychotherapy outcomes correlate primarily with relationship quality rather than professional expertise. This finding raises a profound question: Does this principle extend beyond therapy to all professional—or even personal—relationships?

As an accomplished author of coaching books that integrate therapeutic approaches, Dr. McCormick specializes in working with "angry bosses." His guiding principle is striking: "Don't say anything until the client is ready to listen." This deceptively simple approach prioritizes presence over intervention.

When asked which clients he finds most challenging, Dr. McCormick candidly admits it's angry individuals. His solution? "Deliberate practice"—a methodical approach to developing comfort with discomfort.

For anyone seeking to transform challenging conversations from dreaded encounters into welcome opportunities for growth, Dr. McCormick's insights offer a practical pathway forward.

https://iainmccormick.net/

https://philipcrocker.com/the-alongsider