At Global IOC, our mission has always been clear: to develop the most effective, impactful, and masterful coaches in the world. It’s a mission that demands we not only stay current with the principles of great coaching but also with the science of great learning.
In a world that demands more flexibility, personalization, and real-world application than ever before, we believe the way we train exceptional coaches must also evolve.
So, when clients and others proposed a fundamental shift away from our traditional classroom model—a model I personally enjoy and value—I’ll admit, I was skeptical. My bias was clear: I love the energy of a live cohort. But my responsibility as a leader is to challenge my own biases and follow the evidence. The question was stark: could a more flexible, personalized model produce demonstrably better coaches?
Anyone who has worked with me knows that I am relentlessly driven by a simple question: "What does the evidence say?" I've built my career and this company on the principle that knowledge can be found and examined. High Theoretic here….
Our current virtual training model is strong. Our live, 90-minute sessions are interactive, filled with case studies and breakout groups that have served our students well for years. By most standards, it’s a success. And personally, I love the dynamic energy of those sessions.
But my job is to challenge our own success and ask a tougher question: "Is this the most effective way for professionals to achieve true coaching mastery?" My responsibility is to follow the evidence, even if it leads away from a model I know and like.
First, we examined the power of individual reflection. The research shows that true, lasting insight often doesn’t happen in the rush of a group discussion. It happens when an individual has the time and space to quietly wrestle with a new concept on their own. We saw an opportunity to build this critical reflective space directly into our process.
Second, we analyzed how to maximize precious "live" time. Our 90-minute sessions were good, but we were using valuable synchronous time for initial knowledge transfer. The evidence showed that if students engaged with the core concepts before the group session, our live time together could be 100% dedicated to application, synthesis, and high-level feedback. It makes our time together exponentially more valuable.
Finally, this led to a new definition of group work. The goal of a breakout room isn't just to discuss an idea; it's to deepen it. When each student arrives at the LeaderCoach Lab having already done their individual reflection, the quality of the group synthesis is transformed. They aren’t just learning; they are co-creating a deeper understanding. The conclusion was inescapable: we could evolve from a good model to a truly exceptional one.
And then, a funny thing happened. My heart was won over, too. I realized that this new model allows me and my senior faculty to engage with our students in a more meaningful way than ever before. We're no longer presenters of information; we are true mentors in the practice arena, guiding, challenging, and celebrating growth up close.
That’s why we are thrilled to announce a fundamental and exciting transformation of two of our cornerstone programs: Coaching Essentials and the Registered Professional Coach (RPC) program. We are moving from a traditional cohort model to a more dynamic, integrated, and evidence-based learning system designed for deep, lasting mastery.
Introducing a Three-Part Model for Applied Mastery
Our newly redesigned programs are built on a powerful, integrated learning framework:
- Self-Directed Learning Modules: Access a rich library of our core curriculum—the theory, models, and Global IOC competencies—on your own schedule. Learn at your pace, when you are most receptive, and revisit complex topics as needed.
- Dedicated Oversight Coaching: This is far more than just mentorship. You will be paired with a Global IOC Master Coach who provides personalized guidance, discusses your coaching sessions, and helps you translate theory into practice with precision and confidence.
- Virtual LeaderCoach Labs: This is where the learning comes to life. Join interactive online labs with a small group of peers. These sessions are not lectures; they are dynamic practice arenas dedicated to peer coaching, receiving expert feedback, and workshopping real-world coaching challenges.
What This Looks Like in Practice
Imagine a week in the new RPC program. On Monday morning, you might dive into the self-directed module on "Connecting and PEA/NEA." On Wednesday, you'll submit a short reflection on the coaching content and get direct, written feedback from your Oversight Coach. Then on Friday, you'll join your LeaderCoach Lab to workshop that very competency with your peers, practicing in real-time and gaining new insights. Every component builds on the last, turning theory into skill.
Answering Your Questions
Q: Will I lose the sense of community I'd get from a traditional cohort? A: Not at all. We've designed the LeaderCoach Labs to be the heart of our community. Because these small-group sessions are focused entirely on active practice and feedback, you'll build deep, professional relationships with peers who are just as committed to the craft as you are. It’s a community built on shared practice, not just shared lectures.
Q: Is this new model as rigorous as the old one? A: It’s even more so. The rigor has been shifted from passive listening to active application. The combination of personalized feedback from your Oversight Coach on your actual coaching, plus the live practice in the Labs, demands a higher level of engagement and leads to a deeper, more integrated level of skill.
What This Means for You
This new model is designed to deliver a more profound and practical learning experience. For you, this means:
- Ultimate Flexibility: Learn the core content on your schedule, from anywhere in the world.
- Deeper Integration: Apply what you learn immediately and receive feedback, locking in the skills.
- Unmatched Confidence: Enter the profession knowing your skills have been honed in live, rigorous practice labs and certified by a master coach.
- A More Personal Journey: Receive the focused, one-on-one attention you need to unlock your unique potential as a coach.
Join the Conversation and Take the Next Step
At Global IOC, we are relentlessly committed to excellence. This new learning model represents the next stage of that commitment, and we invite you to be part of this exciting new chapter. The Coaching Essentials program begins September 15 with The Registered Professional Coach program starting the week of October 26. The LeaderCoach labs for each program will be on Fridays from 11am -12 EST.
For more information contact Dr. Peggy Marshall here.
Or if you have already decided this is for you register here.
