E380 | What to Do When Clients Get Too Dependent

Ever feel like you're coaching on repeat? 

You've handed a client every tool they need, yet they keep circling back with the same issue. 

Or maybe you're working with an athlete who hears everything you say, but nothing seems to land. It’s as if they’re outsourcing ownership of the entire process.

It can start to feel like a rehearsed dance. You say your part, they nod along, and both of you move forward on autopilot. But this doesn’t have to be just frustrating—it can be an inflection point for us. 

In today’s episode, Brett breaks down how to navigate this all-too-common dynamic and use it as a way to better understand what we bring to the table. Because when we hone in on and embrace our unique intangibles—those strong qualities that might even turn some people off—we create opportunities to lead more effectively, grow our business, and stand out in a noisy, boring world where everyone just wants to fit in.

In this episode, we cover:

• No matter what they say, clients come back for more than just results
• Questions to ask a non-responsive client to encourage ownership—without assigning blame
• How to get feedback and gain insight into what sets you apart (hint: it’s not your experience or certifications)
• Determine if there’s a “psychological nutrient” you’re providing—or withholding
• Bonus: An excerpt from Brett’s Observed Absurdity file about department stores, including some hilarious, can’t-miss euphemisms and analogies

The Apprenticeship

If you're tired of struggling through hard conversations or avoiding them altogether, this is your chance to train for them. We’ll put you in realistic role-play scenarios and teach you the frameworks that help you navigate conflict, power dynamics, and tough personalities.

No fluff. No gurus. Just pressure-tested strategies you can actually use—because the best coaching skills don’t perish. Everyone has a coach in their life, and the ability to communicate clearly under pressure pays off in every area—not just work.

📍Phoenix, AZ – June 7-8 📍Oakland, CA – July 12-13 📍Murfreesboro, TN – October 25-26

Retreat. Reset. Recalibrate. RELOAD!

This September, we’re hosting a retreat in Phoenix, AZ—built for those who carry it all. Ten years in the making, this event is designed to give you tools to slow down, recalibrate, and breathe again.

We're teaming up with professionals like Taylor Somerville and Lauren Vestal to introduce breathwork, recovery strategies, and techniques to help you downregulate and bring some peace back into your day-to-day life. You’ll also get space to move, connect, and troubleshoot how to have the tough conversations you've been avoiding—so you can show up for yourself as much as you do for everyone else.

Stay tuned at artofcoaching.com/events and email us at [e-mail] for more details.

Executive Mentoring That Fits Your Life

Struggling with anxiety before a big presentation? Leading difficult meetings? Trying to figure out how to handle a staff issue, or even a challenge at home? One of our 15 coaches has been there and dealt with that.

This is real-world guidance, tailored to your needs, on your schedule. Nothing cookie-cutter about it.

Every leader needs a coach. The best ones know when to ask for help.

Learn more at artofcoaching.com/mentoring. We’d love to help!

Referenced Resources:

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