Lynette Sprowls On The Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Coaching

An Interview With Chad Silverstein

Chad Silverstein
Authority Magazine
10 min readJul 14, 2024

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The power of leaders having a trusted coach cannot be overstated. Having a neutral party to discuss challenges, explore ideas, and receive guidance can be immensely beneficial. It provides a safe space for leaders to reflect, gain clarity, and make informed decisions that positively impact their teams and organizations.

The world of coaching is undergoing a seismic shift, with emerging trends set to redefine its boundaries and possibilities. From digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence to the growing emphasis on mental health and the global rise of coaching cultures within organizations, these developments are reshaping the landscape of personal and professional growth. As we navigate through these changes, understanding the forces that drive the future of coaching becomes paramount. I had the pleasure of Lynette Sprowls.

Lynette Sprowls is an ICF-PCC and NBC-HWC board-certified executive coach with 8+ years of coaching experience and 12+ years of experience in workshop facilitation and corporate training. She is a forward-thinking coach and speaker specializing in creating dynamic partnerships that empower individuals, teams, and organizations to align with their purpose, elicit clear, achievable, and well-defined goals, and be inspired to take strategic action to move from intention to positive impact.

Thank you for joining us. To start, could you share your “origin story” with our readers? How did you begin your coaching journey, and what challenges did you face in the early days? You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

Once upon a time I found myself in a world filled with exhaustion and stress. From this place I embarked on a thrilling journey of self-discovery. I delved deep into the depths of my being, seeking answers to life’s biggest questions: Who am I? Why am I here? What does my true purpose look like?

Through this extraordinary exploration, I acquired a myriad of certifications, unlocking the secrets of self-awareness and personal growth. As the veil of stress lifted, a newfound desire emerged within me: the burning passion to help others overcome their own struggles and break free from the chains of stress and overwhelm. In that pivotal moment, I realized that I possessed the power to guide and inspire as a coach.

Throughout my journey, I have discovered three remarkable character traits that have shaped the very course of my life. These traits embody the essence of my being: an insatiable curiosity that fuels my thirst for knowledge, the unwavering ability to let go of ego and embrace humility, and an indomitable spirit of perseverance that propels me forward.

Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Why does that resonate with you so much?

Set your life on fire and seek those who fan your flames. — Rumi

I find it incredibly important to surround yourself with people who ignite and fuel your passions. These are the individuals who believe in you, support your dreams, and inspire you to reach for the stars. They are the ones who fan your flames, encouraging you to embrace your true potential and live a life filled with passion and purpose.

In a world that can sometimes be challenging and discouraging, having a tribe of flame-fanners is crucial. These are the people who see your potential even when you doubt yourself, who lift you up when you stumble, and who celebrate every milestone along your journey. They provide unwavering support, encouragement, and motivation, propelling you forward in the pursuit of your dreams.

So, seek out those who fan your flames. Surround yourself with individuals who believe in your vision, who inspire you to keep pushing forward, and who remind you of the incredible fire that burns within you. Together, you can create a powerful synergy that propels you towards success, fulfillment, and a life that sets your soul on fire.

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?

Well, I must say that the most interesting project I’m always working on is myself. I believe in the power of personal growth and constant self-improvement. It’s a journey that I embark on every single day, driven by the desire to become the best version of myself.

In this fast-paced world, I’ve come to realize that if I want to walk beside someone, I need to be on a similar path of self-discovery and self-improvement. I believe in the importance of personal alignment and growth, both for myself and the people I surround myself with.

When I invest time and effort in improving myself, it not only benefits me but also enhances my ability to connect with others and build meaningful relationships. I strive to be a supportive and empathetic companion on their own journey of self-discovery, understanding that we are all constantly evolving and growing.

So, I prioritize self-improvement as an ongoing project. I seek new knowledge, challenge my beliefs, and explore different perspectives. By continuously learning and evolving, I can better understand myself and others, fostering deeper connections and meaningful collaborations.

Without saying any names could you share a particularly memorable success story from your coaching career?

One of my most successful stories of someone I’ve coached is a client who was stuck in a limiting belief based on things her mother had told her.

Together, we embarked on a transformative journey, exploring the ways in which these limiting beliefs were manifesting in her life and holding her back from the life she truly desired.

During our sessions, she gained a newfound awareness of how these beliefs were impacting her relationship with her child. She realized that she was not fully present and enjoying precious moments with her child because she was constantly preoccupied with the past.

With this awareness, she was able to take proactive steps to break free from these limiting beliefs. She developed strategies to be fully present and loving towards her child, while also nurturing self-love and self-compassion during these experiences.

Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview about coaching. How has your approach to coaching evolved over the years, and what personal learnings have you applied to your own development?

When I first began my journey as a coach, I focused primarily on helping people with their nutrition and physical health. However, I soon discovered that what I enjoyed most was understanding the mental and emotional aspects that drive people’s behavior.

This realization sparked a transformation in my coaching practice, and I began to explore the field of neuroleadership. I was fascinated by the intersection of neuroscience and leadership, and how understanding the inner workings of the brain can help individuals and teams achieve their goals.

As I continued down this path, I found myself increasingly drawn to the world of executive coaching and team development. I love working with teams to explore their dynamics and help them develop the skills and strategies they need to succeed.

Now, as I look to the future, I am excited to continue exploring the field of neuroleadership and expanding my coaching practice. I believe that by helping individuals and teams understand the underlying drivers of their behavior, we can unlock their full potential and achieve incredible results.

How do you incorporate feedback into your coaching practice to continuously improve?

Feedback is an integral part of the coaching process, as it allows me to understand how clients are experiencing the coaching sessions and the impact it is having on their lives. By actively seeking and valuing feedback, I can continuously improve my coaching skills and tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.

When clients share their perspectives, it provides valuable insights into their progress, challenges, and areas of growth. It helps me gauge the effectiveness of the coaching process and make any necessary adjustments to ensure their success.

In addition to client feedback, I also encourage open communication and collaboration throughout the coaching journey. By fostering a safe and supportive environment, I create space for clients to share their thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. This collaborative approach allows us to work together as partners, unlocking their full potential and achieving meaningful transformations.

Can you discuss an innovation in coaching that you believe is currently underappreciated but has the potential to significantly impact the field?

I don’t have a valuable response for this question

In what ways can coaching address the evolving mental health needs of diverse populations in a digitally connected world?

I am a global coach, working with diverse populations around the world. This allows me to address the evolving mental health needs of individuals from different backgrounds and cultures. By embracing this global perspective, I can provide support and guidance that is sensitive to the unique challenges and experiences of each person I work with.

As I navigate the coaching landscape, I am constantly inspired by the power of human connection. Through my work, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that coaching can have on individuals’ lives. It is a privilege to be able to guide and support my clients on their personal growth journeys, helping them overcome obstacles, unlock their potential, and achieve their goals.

How do you foresee artificial intelligence and machine learning transforming the coaching industry in the next decade?

I don’t have a valuable response for this question

What role do you believe ethical considerations and privacy concerns will play in the future of coaching, especially with the increased use of digital platforms?

Could you list and briefly explain “Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Coaching” based on your experiences and insights? If you can, please share a story or example for each.

Top five trends in coaching:

1- As the coaching industry continues to evolve, it is becoming increasingly important for companies to value and prioritize coaching certifications for their managers. This trend reflects a recognition of the value that coaching brings to leadership development and organizational success.

2- The power of leaders having a trusted coach cannot be overstated. Having a neutral party to discuss challenges, explore ideas, and receive guidance can be immensely beneficial. It provides a safe space for leaders to reflect, gain clarity, and make informed decisions that positively impact their teams and organizations.

3- In today’s interconnected world, coaching has a global reach. It transcends geographical boundaries and cultural differences, allowing individuals from all corners of the globe to benefit from the transformative power of coaching. This global perspective brings a richness and diversity of insights that can enhance the coaching experience for both coaches and clients.

4- It is becoming increasingly common for individuals in various professions and walks of life to seek the support of a coach. Whether it’s for personal growth, career development, or navigating life transitions, having a coach has become a recognized and valuable resource for forward momentum. This growing acceptance of coaching as a tool for success further solidifies its importance in today’s world.

5- The coaching industry is experiencing rapid growth and expansion. As more and more individuals recognize the benefits of coaching, the demand for qualified coaches continues to rise. This growth not only presents opportunities for aspiring coaches but also signifies the increasing impact and value that coaching brings to individuals and organizations alike.

How do you envision the integration of coaching within organizational cultures changing the landscape of leadership and employee development?

Leaders are often expected to excel in their work, but what sets the truly exceptional leaders apart is their ability to coach and empower their teams to achieve great things. When leaders embrace coaching as a core competency, they can unlock the full potential of their teams and create a culture of continuous learning and growth.

However, coaching isn’t just about having the right skills. It’s also about having the right mindset, one that focuses on the development and success of others. When leaders approach coaching with humility and a genuine desire to help their team members reach their full potential, the impact can be transformational.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the coaching industry today, and how might we overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges facing the coaching industry today is the need to demonstrate its impact on organizational outcomes. While there is a growing body of research that supports the effectiveness of coaching, many organizations struggle to measure the impact of coaching on specific business metrics.

Another challenge facing the coaching industry is the need to develop and maintain high standards of quality and professionalism. As the industry grows, there is a risk of dilution and fragmentation, with a wide range of providers offering coaching services of varying quality and effectiveness. To ensure that coaching remains a valuable and respected profession, it is important for coaches to adhere to established standards of ethics and professionalism, and to constantly strive for excellence in their work.

What is one long-term goal you have for your coaching practice, and how are you working towards it?

I am an ICF-PCC coach and I am passionate about helping individuals and teams unlock their full potential. Currently, I am on a journey towards achieving ICF-MCC certification, which is the highest level of certification offered by the International Coaching Federation (ICF). This certification will not only enhance my coaching skills, but also validate my expertise and commitment to the coaching profession.

How can our readers continue to follow your work?

https://bookme.name/Lynettesprowls

Thank you for offering such valuable insights into the future of coaching. We look forward to seeing your work continue to reach new heights, and we wish you continued success.

About the interviewer: Chad Silverstein is a seasoned entrepreneur and thought-leader. With over 25 years of business experience, Chad’s entire career has been dedicated to creating a positive social impact in all of his enterprises. His entrepreneurial journey began while in college at The Ohio State University, where he founded Choice Recovery, Inc., which earned national recognition and was twice ranked as the #1 company to work for in Central Ohio. Chad is now a strategic advisor for Authority Magazine’s thought-leader incubator and an Executive Leadership Coach with Built to Lead, where he recently launched an online community for leadership development.

To learn more and connect with Chad, visit www.chadsilverstein.io

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Chad Silverstein
Authority Magazine

Chad Silverstein: 25-years experience as a CEO & Founder, sharing entrepreneurial insights & empowering the next generation of leaders.