Speakers’ passion inspiring

Thirty-five people joined the online session held on 12 December by the South West of England Branch in collaboration with the Division of Coaching Psychology.

Facilitated by Dr Lizana Oberholzer, chair of the Division of Coaching Psychology, and Anne-Marie Rowson, co-chair of the South West Branch, the event centered on two book reviews that highlighted different approaches to integrating climate consciousness into coaching practice. It led to vibrant discussion and reflection on how coaching can drive meaningful climate action.

Dr Oberholzer kicked off the session with a review of Ecological and Climate Conscious Coaching: A Companion Guide to Evolving Practices, edited by Alison Whybrow, Eve Turner, Josie McLean, Peter Hawkins, a thought-provoking and creative work authored by a diverse range of contributors. 

Each chapter offers a unique perspective, supporting coaches interested in climate-related coaching to advance on their own developmental journey as a climate conscious coach. Dr Oberholzer described the book as "inspiring," emphasising how it empowers coaches to explore new ways of engaging with ecological themes in their practice.

For added inspiration, Josie Maclean, a prominent climate coaching advocate and one of the contributors to the Climate Coaching Alliance, made a guest appearance via video from Australia. Her heartfelt and passionate call to action left the audience highly motivated to embrace climate-conscious practices and to challenge the status quo in all aspects of our life and work.

Climate change: An inherently human issue

Anne-Marie then offered a review of Climate Change Coaching: The Power of Connection to Create Climate Action by Charlie Cox and Sarah Flynn.  This book takes a more structured and linear approach, encouraging readers to first make the vital connection between climate change and coaching. The authors present climate change as an inherently human issue – one where coaches are uniquely positioned to make an impact. It provides actionable insights, including strategies to shift communication styles, promote meaningful dialogue, and address broader systemic aspects of climate change.

Anne-Marie highlighted that the book also tackles the emotional intensity of working in the climate change space, offering thoughtful self-care practices for coaches navigating this challenging yet essential area of work.

The two book reviews ignited lively conversations among participants, who were encouraged to reflect on how the planet, environment, and climate change appear in their coaching practices. The session provided a safe and inspiring space to discuss both the challenges and opportunities of engaging clients in this emotionally-charged and critical field.

The South West Branch extends its heartfelt thanks to Dr Lizana Oberholzer and Josie Maclean for their invaluable contributions to this thought-provoking event. Their passion and expertise left attendees inspired and equipped to consider new ways of integrating climate awareness into their coaching practice.

We look forward to hosting more joint events with the Division of Coaching Psychology, continuing to explore the intersection of coaching and climate change, and supporting coaches to make a meaningful impact.