In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey return to the foundational principles behind Michael Bungay Stanier’s bestselling book The Coaching Habit. Building on their previous conversation about The Advice Trap, they unpack why most people jump too quickly into giving answers and how learning to “stay curious longer” transforms leadership, mentoring, and everyday conversations.

Stephen walks through the seven core coaching questions that form the backbone of Michael’s work, explaining how these simple prompts help leaders shift from advice givers to effective guides. Britain brings a unique perspective from the world of professional sports, reflecting on what great coaching looks like in high-pressure environments and why the best coaches help players discover insights for themselves.

Together, they explore how these seven questions create clarity, empower others, and strengthen relationships, whether in the workplace, on the field, or at home. This episode is a practical, wisdom-packed guide for anyone who wants to influence others in a more meaningful and effective way.

What We Discuss

[00:00] Introduction
[00:46] Overview of Michael Bungay Stanier’s books
[01:51] The seven coaching questions
[03:13] Brit’s perspective: Athlete’s perspective on coaching
[05:27] Guiding others to their own solutions
[07:20] Applying coaching in leadership
[08:13] When direct advice is needed

Notable Quotes

[01:22] " The main principle is this, which is to stay curious longer and to rush to advice a little more slowly." – Stephen
[02:49] " Literally, if you just ask these questions, then you automatically are, in a way, like a pretty effective coach." – Stephen
[05:12] I've always loved that concept of like, in order for you to influence someone, you almost have to help them come up with this idea or their own version of it organically.” – Britain
[05:27] “ All these questions, they’re a guide to help other people come up with their own solutions. Because those solutions will always stick more.”– Britain

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

Book

The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier
The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier

Britain Covey

Stephen H. Covey