This book presents the idea that the real magic of coaching happens when YOU transform first. Authors Claire and Lucia ditch the technical jargon and show you how to be a more human, heart-centered coach. It's like they're giving you the secret handshake to deeper connections and powerful conversations with your clients. If you're a coach who wants to go beyond "textbook perfect" and truly impact people's lives, this book is your guide to becoming a coaching leader.

In general, I found "The Human Behind the Coach" quite useful, even though I'm not a coach but a human who works in a helping profession. I enjoyed how the authors breakdown certain dynamics and events that may occur in the counselling/coaching room that leave the professional a bit frazzled or unsatisfied. The analysis of possible clients' possible attitudes and tips on how to show up for them left me with several "aha-moments".

"The Human Behind the Coach" by Claire Pedrick and Lucia Baldelli is a profound exploration of coaching that transcends technique. Prepare yourself to dive in to the essence of what makes a great coach.

In a world saturated with methodologies and strategies, this book serves as a flare, illuminating the often-overlooked facets of coaching -- the humanity, vulnerability, and depth that transform conversations from ordinary to extraordinary. Pedrick and Baldelli draw from a reservoir of real coaching sessions, infusing their insights with stories, reflections, and practical examples.

"The Human Behind the Coach" isn't just a guidebook -- it's an invitation to embark on a personal journey of growth. The authors unveil the essential human qualities -- humility, courage, and more -- that form the bedrock of exceptional coaching. Through their meticulous research and experiential wisdom, they present a roadmap for coaches eager to transcend boundaries and foster transformational dialogues.

This book provides instructions; it compels coaches to introspect, urging them to develop themselves before attempting to transform others. It's a call to embrace vulnerability and authenticity, recognizing that the magic of coaching lies not just in the words spoken but in the depth of the human connection promoted.

"The Human Behind the Coach" elevates the coaching experience, offering an inventory of wisdom for those ready to dive deeper, evolve personally, and cultivate more impactful, meaningful conversations. This book is an experiential journey toward becoming a more profound, empathetic, and effective coach.

"A transformative exploration unveiling the humanity at the heart of coaching, inspiring coaches to evolve personally for more impactful conversations."

"Pedrick and Baldelli's work offers a profound shift, emphasizing the importance of human qualities in coaching for deeper and more meaningful transformations."

"An insightful and reflective journey into the soul of coaching, emphasizing humility, vulnerability, and courage as the cornerstones of transformational conversations."

"A guidebook for the evolution of self -- coaches encouraged to embrace vulnerability and authenticity for truly impactful coaching experiences."

When working with others to improve their performance or any other aspect of their personal and professional lives, coaches are often called upon to identify processes and practices, to find solutions, to take action on strategies. The most effective coaches take the time to do the work themselves, the work of improving oneself to serve others. As an organizational coach, I appreciated the reminders to create space for reflexive practices of inquiry and contemplation. The very human aspect of coaching lies in humble, vulnerable, and honest conversations that yield great insights into the whys and hows of our thoughts and action, The authors offer practical strategies for improving the art of inquiry and conversation, to develop applicable solutions in partnership with the client.

I'm so glad to be reading The Human Behind the Coach by Claire Pedrick and Lucia Baldelli before I pivot my career from therapist to coach. There is a quote from this book that underpins the entire premise of the authors, that is, "The coach is in the wings. It's the thinker who is on the stage". Coaching is not about being an expert and having all the answers or asking the perfect question, but about having the courage to let the thinker shine as the expert of their own life.

The book's easy-to-read style, feels like a mentor, offering guidance, insights and reassurance to those wanting to make a meaningful impact with their coaching practice. And the accompanying reflective questions and exercises make the learning process engaging and thought-provoking.

Thanks to NetGalley and Practical Inspiration Publishing for the ARC for the purpose of this review. All opinions are my own.