EP 223 Hug the Cactus: Leadership, Conflict & Fierce Clarity in Retreats with Adrian Koehler

In this powerful episode of the Retreat Leaders Podcast, Shannon Jamail welcomes executive coach and consultant Adrian Koehler, a leadership expert with a bold approach rooted in emotional intelligence and unapologetic honesty. From "hugging the cactus" to "riding the elephant," Adrian shares what it really takes to lead high-impact retreats and teams—spoiler: it’s not all good vibes and holding space.

Episode Highlights:

• Leadership Beyond the Feel-Good: Adrian and Shannon break down why retreat leaders need more than intuition and good intentions—they need structure, clarity, and accountability.
• The Real Work of Alignment: Learn how to get your support team fully aligned with your retreat's vision, values, and promises so every attendee gets what they came for.
• Handling Conflict Like a Pro: Adrian shares his frameworks for navigating difficult conversations with empathy and precision—so you can be “hard on the problem, soft on the person.”
• Preventing the Parade of Horribles: Discover how addressing small issues early keeps your business relationships strong and your standards high.
• Empathy Meets Accountability: From venue problems to team tension, Adrian shows you how to approach challenges collaboratively while staying fiercely committed to your mission.

Whether you’re a seasoned retreat leader or building your first event, this episode will give you real-world tools to step into your role as a true leader—not just a space holder.

About Adrian

Adrian Koehler, the no-nonsense leadership engagement expert and Senior Partner at Take New  Ground, is the go-to guide for fast-moving leaders. Dedicated to breaking through barriers, he spends his time helping entrepreneurs and enterprise leaders cut through the noise and create transformative outcomes. Adrian coaches executives globally, encouraging authentic leadership and fostering courage for meaningful change. His passion for human performance has led him to diverse contexts, from Fortune 500 organizations to startups and healthcare, making Adrian a catalyst for real talk and impactful results. Adrian Koehler extends his influence beyond the boardroom as the co-host of "Raising The Bar" and "The Naked Leadership Podcast." Drawing on his background in philanthropy, ministry, activism, and medicine, he thrives in difficult conversations and engaging complexity, challenging listeners to live authentically. Currently residing in the heart of Hollywood, with his children Scout and Charli, Adrian is on a mission to inspire authentic leadership, urging individuals to raise the bar in both personal and professional realms.

 

Connect with Adrian

https://takenewground.com/ 

 

 

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