The Health And Wellness Coach Journal

  • Mind-Body Medicine with Dr. James Gordon: From Individual Transformation to Healing Trauma Across the World

    2026/04/14 · 47 分
    In this episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh is joined by Dr. James Gordon, a Harvard-educated psychiatrist and pioneer of mind-body and integrative medicine. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM). He is a clinical professor at Georgetown Medical School and was chair of the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy (under Presidents Clinton and G.W. Bush). He is the author of several books, including most recently, of Transforming Trauma: The Path to Hope and Healing. In this episode, Dr. Gordon reflects on the early experiences that led him toward mind-body medicine long before it was widely accepted, and shares how his personal healing journey shaped a lifelong commitment to helping others navigate trauma, illness, and change. His curiosity about human beings, both individually and collectively, became the foundation for the mind-body skills group model that bridges science, psychology, and ancient and indigenous healing traditions. Dr. Gordon speaks about the founding vision behind CMBM, the evolution of its work in communities across the world, and the power of creating healing spaces grounded in self-awareness, self-care, and human connection. He shares how CMBM was created not only to support individuals, but to shift systems. From its early beginnings with no funding and minimal staff, the organization has grown into a global movement, training thousands of clinicians, educators, and community leaders who have gone on to help heal millions of people worldwide. A central focus of the episode is CMBM’s work in some of the most difficult settings across the world, including war zones, conflict-affected regions, disaster areas, and communities living with profound trauma. Dr. Gordon reflects on how CMBM grew from an effort to influence healthcare and education into a global model for healing population-wide trauma, and how its work across cultures helped confirm that healing is not limited by geography or background, but grounded in universal human capacities for connection, safety, expression, and self-awareness. At the heart of CMBM’s approach are practical, evidence-based mind-body techniques taught in small groups, including breathwork, guided imagery, movement, meditation, expressive practices, and group support. In the conversation, Dr. Gordon explains that these tools are introduced in a way that allows people to experience change for themselves, helping restore a sense of agency in the face of stress, trauma, and illness. He also describes why the Mind-Body Skills Group model is so powerful: healing is often strengthened in community, where people can share, be witnessed, reduce isolation, and rediscover trust and connection. The episode also explores the impact of this work on healthcare professionals, coaches, educators, and other helpers who undergo the training themselves. Dr. Gordon describes how many participants leave with greater hope, clarity, and self-awareness, along with new ways to integrate these practices into their work and communities. That ripple effect is part of what makes CMBM’s model so distinctive. What makes this approach especially powerful is that it does not stop with the individual. CMBM’s model is designed to build healing capacity within communities by training clinicians, educators, and community leaders in self-care, self-awareness, and group support, and by supporting them in bringing those skills into workplaces, schools, homes, and local communities. This episode offers an insightful lens into mind-body medicine for coaches, clinicians, and all who feel called to healing work. Dr. Gordon’s reflections invite listeners to consider healing not simply as symptom relief, but as a process of restoring balance, rediscovering inner capacity, and creating the conditions for individuals and communities to heal across the globe. For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Dr Gordon, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/mind-body-medicine-with-dr-james-gordon-from-individual-transformation-to-healing-trauma-across-the-world To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected Resources Mentioned The Center for Mind-Body Medicine: www.cmbm.orgProfessional Training Program in Mind-Body Medicine: https://cmbm.org/training-certification/training/ Gordon, James S. Manifesto for a New Medicine: Your Guide to Healing Partnerships and the Wise Use of Alternative Therapies. New York: Hachette Books, 1997. Gordon, James S. Transforming Trauma: The Path to Hope and Healing. New York: HarperOne, 2021. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 3:36 - How Curiosity Led Dr. Gordon to Mind-Body Medicine Before It Was Mainstream 9:28 - How the Center for Mind-Body Medicine Evolved to Heal Trauma Around the World: Healers Healing Healers ...
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  • Rebecca Rutschmann on AI in Coaching—From Learning to Practice

    2026/03/10 · 36 分

    In this episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh speaks with Rebecca Rutschmann, a leading voice at the intersection of Human Intelligence and AI, dedicated to bridging the "GenAI Divide" in professional development. As the co-founder of Viva la Coaching Academy, she has moved beyond simple tool-training to champion AI fluency teaching coaches and leaders how to think with machines, not just through them. A recognized speaker and researcher, Rebecca partners with global organizations to design conversational AI experiences that prioritize ethical grounding, transparency, and the irreplaceable power of human presence.

    Rebecca shares how her path began with a lifelong fascination with technology. From being the only girl in tech class as a child, to working in website development, CRM systems, and corporate communications, she found herself repeatedly drawn to spaces where technology and communication met. Her journey into coaching began when she noticed that many young technical leaders in the workplace were struggling not with systems, but with people. Coaching gave her a language and a framework for supporting the human side of leadership, and over time it became clear that this was where her passions could converge.

    In this episode, Rebecca also explores the growing knowledge gap around AI in the coaching profession. Rebecca reflects on how many coaches are still overwhelmed by technology, unsure where to start, and deeply concerned about ethics, confidentiality, and responsible use. Through her work at Viva la Coaching Academy, she is helping fill that gap by creating learning spaces where coaches can explore AI safely, playfully, and in community.

    Rebecca speaks about one of the most important tensions in the field right now: how to embrace AI without sacrificing the heart of coaching. She explains that technology should not replace human connection, but it can enhance reflection, accountability, access, and professional growth. In many cases, AI is most useful between sessions through nudges, prompts, summaries, follow-up support, and reflective exercises that help clients sustain momentum.

    The conversation also explores the future of coach education. Rebecca makes the case that AI should not be treated as an optional extra or an advanced topic for later. Instead, it should be integrated into coach training from the beginning in ways that are practical, experiential, and grounded in ethical awareness. Dr. Singh and Rebecca also discuss what responsible AI use actually looks like.

    This episode serves as an encouraging reminder that AI in the future of coaching is not something happening to us. Rather, it is something we are actively shaping.

    For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Rebecca, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/rebecca-rutschmann-on-ai-in-coaching-from-learning-to-practice

    To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected

    Timestamps:

    0:00 - Introduction

    1:21 - Rebecca Rutschmann’s Journey into Coaching and AI: Curiosity to Leadership

    5:01 - AI Training for Coaches: Rebecca Rutschmann on Closing the Knowledge Gap

    8:24 - Rebecca Rutschmann on Using AI in Coaching Without Losing Human Connection

    12:19 - Evolving Coach Education for AI: Rebecca Rutschmann on Practical AI Integration

    17:00 - Vetting AI Responsibly: Rebecca Rutschmann’s Guidance for Coaches

    20:16 - Rebecca Rutschmann on the Ethical Use of AI in Coaching

    30:33 - Takeaways
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  • Navigating Subtle Acts of Exclusion: Dr. Baran on Culture Change and Inclusion

    2026/02/10 · 39 分
    In this episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh is joined by Dr. Michael Baran, social scientist and CEO of Iris Inclusion. Through his speaking engagements, writings, consulting, leadership development, workshop facilitation, and digital products, he and his diverse team help organizations build cultures of inclusion, psychological safety, innovation, and performance. Before making the shift to full-time consulting work, he taught courses at Harvard University and the University of Michigan, and he worked as an applied researcher at the FrameWorks Institute and the American Institutes of Research. His book, Subtle Acts of Exclusion: How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions was coauthored with Dr. Tiffany Jana. The book has won several awards, has been a Hudson News and Amazon bestseller, and has been named by Forbes as one of “11 Books to Read to Be a More Inclusive Leader.” In this episode, Dr. Baran shares how his journey into inclusion work began with curiosity about inequity, exclusion, and belonging. This curiosity led him to doctoral research in cultural anthropology, extensive fieldwork in Brazil, and eventually to applied research, teaching, and consulting with organizations seeking meaningful culture change. A central focus of the episode is the concept of subtle acts of exclusion, a framework Dr. Baran co-developed with Dr. Jana as a more accessible and actionable alternative to the term microaggressions. He explains how subtle acts of exclusion often emerge from a disconnect between intent and impact—moments where someone may be trying to connect, help, or compliment, yet the interaction lands as hurtful, stressful, or exclusionary. Over time, these repeated experiences can have significant mental, physical, and organizational consequences. Dr. Baran shares why reframing the language has helped reduce defensiveness, increase buy-in, and create more productive conversations about culture and inclusion. The episode also explores how cultural insight becomes practical action. Dr. Baran describes how anthropological research methods—such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups—help organizations better understand what is actually happening within their systems and day-to-day practices. Rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions, this approach allows organizations to design culture change strategies that are responsive, effective, and grounded in lived experience. Drawing from his work in healthcare, Dr. Baran shares a case study from Tufts Medical Center, highlighting what large-scale culture change can look like in complex, high-pressure environments. He discusses the importance of leadership buy-in, thoughtful framing, and scalable strategies that respect the realities of frontline work. Dr. Baran also addresses the broader political and cultural uncertainty surrounding inclusion work today. He reflects on how polarizing language and shifting external pressures have affected organizations’ willingness to engage in this work, and why focusing on clear values—such as inclusion, fairness, and belonging—remains essential. The episode closes with a message of empowerment for coaches and healthcare professionals. Dr. Baran emphasizes that culture is shaped not only by those in formal leadership roles, but through everyday interactions. Coaches, regardless of niche or title, play a vital role as culture shapers by helping individuals develop awareness, empathy, and the capacity to respond thoughtfully to subtle acts of exclusion. For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Dr. Baran, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/navigating-subtle-acts-of-exclusion-dr-baran-on-culture-change-and-inclusion To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected Timestamps: 0 - 2:01 Introduction 2:02 - Learning Inclusion by Living It: Dr. Baran on Fieldwork, Culture, and Understanding 6:35 - From Research to Practice: Dr. Baran on Workplace Culture Change and Inclusion 9:38 - Subtle Acts of Exclusion: Dr. Baran on Reframing Microaggressions 14:09 - When Culture Shifts: Dr. Baran on Buy-In and Impact 18:43 - Dr. Baran on Navigating Inclusion in Uncertain Political Times 22:25 - Dr. Baran on Approaching Subtle Acts of Exclusion as Human Learning Moments 24:56 - Building Inclusion in Healthcare: Dr. Baran’s Culture Change Work at Tufts Medical Center 30:13 - Coaches as Culture Shapers: Dr. Baran on Inclusion in Practice 35:54 - Takeaways
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  • A Hidden Cause Behind Chronic Disease: Dr. William Davis on Microbiome Disruption & Rebuilding Gut Health

    2026/01/13 · 53 分

    In this eye-opening episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh speaks with Dr. William Davis, a cardiologist and New York Times bestselling author of Wheat Belly, Wheat Belly Cookbook, Wheat Belly 30-Minutes (or Less!) Cookbook, and Wheat Belly Total Health, as well as Wheat Belly 10-Day Grain Detox, Undoctored, and Super Gut. His newest book, Super Body: A 3-Week Program to Harness the New Science of Body Composition and Restore Your Youthful Contours, explores emerging science on body composition, the microbiome, and long-term metabolic health.

    Dr. Davis shares how his work as a cardiologist—and a personal turning point—led him to reexamine conventional approaches to heart disease risk. He discusses why wheat and sugar contribute to metabolic changes that negatively affect whole-body health.

    The discussion moves beyond diet to explore why removing harmful foods may only be the beginning. Dr. Davis explains how antibiotics, numerous medications, modern food, environmental exposures, chronic stress, and disrupted sleep deplete protective microbes, impacting various aspects of health.

    This episode also explores microbiome implications for women’s and maternal health, infant development, SIBO, and the relationship between stress, sleep, circadian rhythm, and the gut–brain axis. Dr. Davis offers practical guidance for coaches and healthcare providers seeking credible, evidence-informed microbiome resources.

    Together, Dr. Singh and Dr. Davis discuss the education gap in medicine—particularly around nutrition and the microbiome—and why clinicians often need to expand beyond traditional training to support prevention and long-term healing.

    This conversation is a call to rethink prevention and recognize that rebuilding the microbiome is a powerful way to reclaim agency and improve health.

    For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Dr. Davis, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/A-Hidden-Cause-Behind-Chronic-Disease-Dr-William-Davis-on-Microbiome-Disruption-&-Rebuilding-Gut-Health

    To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Introduction

    1:29 - Challenging the Health Narrative: Insights on Wheat and Heart Disease from Dr. William Davis

    10:49 - Why Diet Alone Isn’t Enough: Microbiome Health and Restoring Key Microbes from Dr. William Davis

    17:21 - Super Gut Takeaways: Insights on Lost Microbes and Their Role in Health and Disease by Dr. William Davis

    19:48 - The Critical Education Gap in Medicine: Nutrition and the Microbiome—Why Clinicians Must Learn What Training Missed from Dr. William Davis

    27:27 - Insights on the Microbiome in Maternal and Women’s Health from Dr. William Davis

    32:41 - SIBO Is More Common Than You Think: Insights on Hidden Microbial Overgrowth, Health Effects, and Rebalancing the Microbiome from Dr. William Davis

    43:09 - The Impact of Stress and Sleep on the Gut: Insights on Circadian Rhythm and Microbiome Health from Dr. William Davis

    47:37 - Finding Credible Microbiome Resources: Guidance for Coaches and Healthcare Providers from Dr. William Davis

    51:12 - Takeaways
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  • From Heart Attack to Awakening: Dr. J. Paul Luftman on Redefining Healing

    2025/12/09 · 36 分

    In this episode, Dr. Jessica Singh is joined by Dr. J. Paul Luftman, a family and sports medicine physician with over 25 years of experience in academic medicine, clinical practice, and healthcare leadership. After surviving a near-fatal widowmaker heart attack, Dr. Luftman entered a new chapter of healing, characterized by quiet reflection, emotional honesty, and a new understanding of health and wellbeing.

    Drawing from his new book The Widowmaker’s Gift: Balancing Science and Well-Being in Healthcare, Dr. Luftman shares how he uncovered the deeper layers of stress and emotional strain that had gone unrecognized for years. His story highlights a powerful truth many healthcare workers and coaches relate to: how caring for people is especially difficult when we are disconnected from ourselves.

    Together, Dr. Singh and Dr. Luftman discuss the importance of self-awareness in healing and the need to redefine what it means to succeed in medicine and helping professions. They also examine the importance of healing partnerships and emphasize that responsibility and agency are essential for sustainability.

    The conversation also gently touches on spirituality and meaning-making. Dr. Luftman explains how stillness and reflection create space for clarity and connection. His approach is grounded, open, and accessible, offering an invitation rather than a command.

    This episode encourages coaches and clinicians to slow down, notice their inner experience and honor their own humanity.

    For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Lewin Keller, visit:https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/from-heart-attack-to-awakening-dr-joseph-luftman-on-redefining-healing

    To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected

    Timestamps:

    0 - Introduction

    2:49 - Dr. Luftman’s Story - Healing, Transformation, and The Widowmaker’s Gift

    6:20 - The Widowmaker’s Gift: Book Overview & Highlights

    10:05 - Heart Attack as a Journey: From Victimhood to Self-Awareness and Empowerment

    13:25 - The Importance of Partnerships in Healing and Transformation

    15:39 - The Power of Self-Awareness in Healing and Transformation

    22:05 - Holistically Redefining Success

    26:21 - Spirituality in Healing, Health, and Well-Being

    32:31 - Takeaways
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  • Lewin Keller On AI in Coaching And Ethical Considerations

    2025/11/11 · 52 分

    In this thought-provoking episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh is joined by Lewin Keller, founder of CoachBot.ai, an AI platform on a mission to make coaching accessible to one billion people.

    After undergoing his own profound transformation — from couch potato to Ironman, from consumer to yoga teacher, and from party animal to father of three — Lewin trained as a professional coach himself. His personal journey from corporate burnout to balance and alignment has shaped his mission to build ethical technology that amplifies human connection rather than replaces it. With tech experience ranging from startups to Google, he combines AI tools, no-code technology, and the vision of a coach-centered marketplace to empower coaches to create their own AI products — for easier client acquisition, delivery, and scalable impact.

    Together, Dr. Singh and Lewin explore the evolving intersection of coaching, AI, and ethical considerations. Lewin gives an overview of the use of LLMs (large language models) in a coaching context, and shares how thoughtfully designed tools can support coaches with onboarding, session summaries, and accountability. allowing coaches to focus on curiosity, empathy, and deep listening.

    Lewin also delves into ethics in AI, including topics such as privacy, consent, “ethical memory,” and the essential role of human oversight in maintaining client safety and trust. Lewin emphasizes that technology should serve as a partner to coaches, not a substitute, and that ethical design must remain at the core of innovation.

    The episode concludes with Lewin’s advice for coaches seeking to bridge the gap between technology and practice—encouraging curiosity over fear, discernment over dismissal, and innovation grounded in compassion.

    This episode is both practical and deeply reflective, reminding listeners that the future of coaching lies not in choosing between humanity and technology, but in thoughtfully integrating the two.

    For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Lewin Keller, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/lewin-keller-on-ai-in-coaching-and-ethical-considerations

    To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected

    Timestamps:

    0 - Introduction

    1:29 - Levin Keller’s Life and Career Story

    8:27 - The Awakening Within: When Crisis Sparks Transformation

    14:19 - Cultivating Purpose and Fulfillment Through Presence

    18:10 - Re-envisioning Coaching: Lewin’s Vision for CoachBot.ai

    24:32 - Practical Uses of LLMs and AI in Coaching

    33:57 - Ethical Use of AI and Technology in Coaching

    44:48 - Lewin’s Advice for Coaches: Bridging AI and Tech Gaps

    49:01 - Takeaways
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  • Doc Jana on Subtle Acts of Exclusion: Key Insights for Coaches and Leaders

    2025/10/14 · 39 分

    In this compelling episode of The Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh is joined by Tiffany Jana—widely known as Doc Jana (they/them)—to unpack Subtle Acts of Exclusion (SAEs) and why understanding them is essential for every coach and leader seeking to foster belonging and psychological safety.

    Doc Jana brings a holistic and transformative lens to this work as a best-selling social justice author, international keynote speaker, and founder of the world’s first diversity-focused Certified B Corporation. They are a certified Sound Healing Practitioner, yoga, reiki, and meditation teacher, International Coaching Community (ICC) Certified Professional Coach, death doula, artist, and energy worker. Doc Jana has been featured in numerous publications and media including Fast Company, NY Times, and Forbes for their work on diversity, equity, empowerment, and inclusion.

    Together, Dr. Singh and Doc explore insights from Doc Jana's book, Subtle Acts of Exclusion: How to Understand, Identify, and Stop Microaggressions, co-authored with Dr. Michael Baran. The book offers a comprehensive framework for recognizing, reframing, and addressing microaggressions—often unconscious behaviors that can marginalize individuals and undermine psychological safety.

    Doc also discusses attributional ambiguity and internalized marginalization, offering strategies to turn negative self-talk and societal messages into affirmations of worthiness. They share how cultivating self-awareness and cultural humility enables coaches and leaders to create safer, more inclusive environments.

    This conversation is both deeply human and profoundly actionable. Doc Jana reminds us that inclusion begins within and that every coach and leader can foster belonging through presence, accountability, and compassion—one conversation at a time.

    For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Doc Jana, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/doc-jana-on-subtle-acts-of-exclusion-key-insights-for-coaches-and-leaders

    To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected

    Timestamps:

    0:00 - Introduction

    3:26 - From Awareness to Action: Doc Jana’s Journey Into the Field of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

    6:30 - Subtle Acts of Exclusion: Book Insights and Summary by Doc Jana

    11:52 - Leading With Awareness: The Transformative Impact of Subtle Acts of Exclusion

    17:14 - Understanding Attributional Ambiguity

    20:26 - The Power of Self-Talk: Rewriting the Messages of Internalized Marginalization

    25:22 - Exploring Gaps In Coaching Education

    34:05 - Takeaways
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  • Health Coaching in Startups: Insights With Neal Sundberg

    2025/09/09 · 27 分

    In this insightful episode of the Health and Wellness Coach Journal Podcast, Dr. Jessica Singh interviews Neal Sundberg, NBC-HWC, CRC, a recognized leader in health and wellness coaching with over a decade of experience in mental health counseling, coaching, and healthcare innovation. Neal has played key roles at Ginger and Headspace, where he helped scale a 24/7 coaching platform from 500 to more than 8,000 weekly sessions—while enhancing outcomes and the overall member experience. Currently, he serves as Director of Coaching at Brightline, overseeing training and quality for Bright Life Kids, a program that offers free coaching to children aged 0 to 12 living in California.

    Neal’s journey into coaching began with his own search for meaning during a period of mental health challenges in college. Initially pursuing a career in therapy, he earned his master’s in counseling but ultimately discovered coaching as a way to support people without the barriers of diagnoses or insurance requirements. At Ginger, he found a space where coaching could meet subclinical needs and empower people to move from surviving to thriving.

    Together, Dr. Singh and Neal discuss the similarities and differences between therapy and coaching, the opportunities and challenges of working in a startup environment, and the lessons he learned when stepping into leadership roles in the tech-enabled coaching space. Neal also shares his groundbreaking work with children and parents at Bright Life Kids. The conversation also highlights how technology—from scaling platforms to AI-powered tools—can expand access, reduce administrative burdens, and ultimately help coaches do what they love most: coach.

    Neal’s story is a powerful reminder of how curiosity, courage, and compassion can shape not only a career but also the future of health and wellness coaching. His insights offer inspiration for coaches, healthcare professionals, and anyone eager to explore how coaching can transform both individual lives and entire systems of care.

    For detailed show notes, resources, and information to connect with Neal Sundberg, visit: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/blog/health-coaching-in-startups-insights-with-neal-sundberg

    To be notified of new episodes, subscribe here: https://www.centerforhealthandwellnesscoaches.com/stay-connected

    Timestamps:

    0:00 - Introduction

    1:36 - Neal’s Journey To Becoming A Coach

    4:15 - Exploring Common Ground Between Coaching And Therapy And Understanding Their Differences

    7:24 - Neal’s Insights On Coaching Leadership In A Start-Up Environment

    12:14 - Neal’s Experience Coaching Kids

    17:51 - Enhancing Coaching Impact Through Technology

    22:18 - Takeaways
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