Newsletter #1

The Experiment Is Underway

A few months ago, I decided to try something new: have real coaching conversations in public and see what we could learn together.

The podcast is called Deep Work, Out Loud, and here's the premise: I sit with another coach, we bring a single concept or challenge we're working through, and we think out loud. Sometimes we coach each other. Sometimes we just explore. It's messy, it's real, and it's exactly the kind of work I believe makes the most difference.

Six episodes in, some patterns are already emerging.

What's Coming Through

Episode 1 with Dr. Mike Shea taught me (again) that when your reaction feels disproportionate to what's happening in the room, you're probably responding to something historical. Mike told a story about racing to see his dying father that reminded me why self-regulation matters—not just for our own wellbeing, but for everyone around us.

Episode 2 with Erin Winkler-McCue reinforced something I see constantly with clients: we all know more than we do. The gap between knowing and doing closes through experimentation—small, bite-sized tests that build muscle memory over time. Erin reminded me that an experiment never fails if you actually run it.

Episode 3 with Abbie Young explored when to coach versus when to direct as a leader. Her answer: it depends on whether you're trying to give an answer or develop a person. And here's what stuck with me—young professionals don't want to just be told what to do. They want to learn. They want coaches, not just managers.

The through-line across all three conversations? Real change happens through practice, not perfection. Self-awareness and self-regulation are foundational. And creating psychological safety—the kind where people can fail, learn, and try again—is what makes growth possible.

You can listen to all six episodes so far (plus the trailer) at julieharrisoliver.com/podcast or whever you get your podcasts. New episodes drop every Tuesday

Speaking of Practice: Group Coaching Is Open

If you've been thinking about coaching but haven't taken the leap, this might be your moment.

I'm opening three group coaching cohorts in April 2026, each designed for leaders navigating pivotal moments:

New Directors & VPs: Stepping Into People Leadership You've earned the title. Now comes the part no one trained you for—leading humans. This group focuses on building trust, giving and receiving feedback, and leading with clarity without defaulting to overwork or self-doubt.

Women Executives: Leading with Authority, Your Way Executive leadership offers a powerful opportunity to shape not only outcomes, but how leadership is experienced. This group supports senior women in defining and embodying their leadership style while honoring their lives beyond work.

Leaders in Transition: Navigating What's Next Between chapters is where the real work begins. This group is for leaders navigating career pivots, role changes, reentry, burnout recovery, or redefining success. We'll slow things down enough to help you listen, reflect, and move forward with clarity instead of urgency.

Each cohort offers structured coaching, peer learning, and practical tools grounded in real-world challenges and honest conversation.

I’m offering this first round of group coaching with pilot-pricing. Rates will go up on the next round. Grab a friend and join this round!

Learn more about group coaching

One More Thing

If any of this resonates, I'd love to hear from you. Reply to this email. Tell me what you're working through. Or just let me know you're out there doing the work too.

And if you know someone who might benefit from the podcast or one of these groups, please forward this along.

Leadership grows in conversation.

Julie

P.S. — The podcast is still an experiment. If you listen and something lands (or doesn't), I want to know. Leave a review, send me a message, or just keep listening. It all helps.

Julie Harris Oliver Executive & Leadership Coach julieharrisoliver.com