Episode 12 - Can one coaching session make a difference to leaders?

Can one coaching session make a difference to leaders? - What if just one coaching session could change how someone sees themselves as a leader—or even change the direction of their career? - In this episode of *1AM Talks*, we flip the script: Rachael Palmer, usually a co-host, steps into the interviewee’s seat to share her experience with a single coaching session—and how it helped her recognise her own leadership potential. - She’s joined by Gerald Vanderpuye, CEO of Impact Brixton, who reveals how coaching gave him the clarity to make a life-changing decision: turning down a high-paying job to build Europe’s only Black-owned co-working space from the ground up. - Rachael opens up about her coaching  hesitations—*"What if this is just 90 minutes I’ll never get back?"*—and how her curiosity and openness led to a breakthrough. She also reflects on how her identity as a Woman of Colour,  shaped her approach to risk and growth. Gerald, meanwhile, shares the raw, emotional moment when coaching helped him see through the noise and make a decision aligned with his values—even when it felt terrifying. Together, we discuss: - The power of a single coaching session: How even a short coaching conversation can spark real change. - Leading without realising it: Rachael’s journey from *"I’m not a leader"* to owning her role as leader and later General Manager. - Courage in decision-making: Gerald’s story of choosing uncertainty over security, and why it paid off for him and his community. - Creating a culture where people thrive: How Impact Brixton’s values-driven approach—trusting teams, embracing vulnerability, and focusing on strengths—turns a  co-working space into a place people bring their families to. <!--THE END--> - Build a workplace culture: Simple ways to create a great workplace  coaching into your workplace. - Encourage openness: Tips for helping employees (and yourself!) approach coaching with curiosity, not scepticism. Reflection Questions for Your Team: - Who in your organisation might be a ‘hidden leader’ like Rachael was—someone contributing more than they realise? - How could you use short, focused coaching sessions to support key decision-makers during transitions? - What would it look like to create a workplace where people feel safe to take risks and grow? 🎧Find more episodes  for free on Spotify   Podbean   and  Apple podcasts Find Out More about your hosts: Connect with host Andry MacFarlane: https://linktr.ee/andryam Explore The Learning Moment’s L&D and OD services in the UK: https://thelearningmoment.org Guest Details: Gerald Vanderpuye – CEO, Impact Brixton Gerald turned down a six-figure salary to build Impact Brixton, a thriving co-working space rooted in community and freedom.  Rachael Palmer – General Manager, Impact Brixton Rachael went from volunteer to General Manager—without ever planning to be a leader. Find out more about Impact Brixton: https://www.impactbrixton.com ⭐ If this episode inspired you, share it with your team, rate the podcast, or subscribe for more real stories about learning, leadership, and growth. Podcast production by: https://www.artifactfilms.co.uk #Coworkingleadership #entrepreneurs #1AMTalks #CoachingThatWorks #LeadershipDevelopment #HR #L&D #WorkplaceCulture #ImpactBrixton #OneSessionWonders