Episode #54: Toku McCree – Zen and the Art of Coaching

When Toku McCree first learned his purpose, he wondered where it had come from and who had said it—even though he was alone with his thoughts when it came to him. He describes in this episode of The Coach’s Journey Podcast how that particular thought, when it arrived, felt “untouchable” and instilled in him the purpose that now guides him through his life and work. Toku spent more than two-and-a-half years living in a monastery, and insights from his former life as a Zen monk permeate his writing, his creativity and his work as a renowned executive coach. In this episode we dive into Toku’s forthcoming book (you can read three chapters for free here) and he reads aloud sections that offer valuable wisdom on how to allow your coaching style to evolve, how to avoid getting stuck in a rut, and how to invite clients to take the first step when they arrive at coaching with trepidation. If you are struggling with your work or with finding your purpose, this episode explores ways to make that struggle meaningful and guide you forwards towards satisfaction.  In this episode, we also talk about: Finding your creative voice and how to think about the body of work you’re creating Bringing reverence to your work and finding satisfaction beyond the hustle Knowing when to challenge and when to encourage our clients The six areas of mastery Toku focuses on in his writing and his coach training How to view your coaching as art and how that can guide you to do your best work We also zoom in on how to accept the times when our work is not our best, and even explore the value in being willing to do bad work! To learn more about me, visit https://www.robbieswale.com/, and to learn more about Toku, visit http://unexecutive.com/. Read three chapters of Toku’s forthcoming book here: https://coachingmba.co/journey-zenandcoaching For information about my wider work, my writing or to buy my books, visit www.robbieswale.com. Music by My Good Man William: listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4KmeQUcTbeE31uFynHQLQg To support the Coach's Journey, visit www.patreon.com/thecoachsjourney and to join the Coach's Journey Community visit www.thecoachsjourney.com/community. Things and people we mentioned (that you might be interested in): - Toku’s first appearance on The Coach’s Journey Podcast https://www.thecoachsjourney.com/podcast/episode-15-toku-mccree-sales-with-honour-and-love-on-the-end-of-a-sword - Toku’s blog https://unexecutive.com/theblog/ - The Prosperous Coach by Rich Litvin https://richlitvin.com/prosperous-coach-2-0/ - Robbie’s 12 Minute Method https://www.robbieswale.com/the12minutemethod - Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zen_Mind,_Beginner%27s_Mind - When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron https://pemachodronfoundation.org/product/when-things-fall-apart-book-grouped/ - Everyday Zen by Charlotte Joko Beck https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/everyday-zen-love-and-work-charlotte-joko-beck?variant=32755860766798 - Zen and the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zen_in_the_Art_of_Archery - Toku’s coaching MBA https://coachingmba.co/about/ BIOGRAPHY FROM TOKU Toku McCree is a distinguished executive coach, speaker, and writer, celebrated for his one-of-a-kind combination of ancient wisdom and modern psychology. His life journey weaves an extraordinary tapestry of diverse experiences, contributing to a profound understanding of human nature and personal growth. From a degree in philosophy from George Washington University, to eight years working in the entertainment business alongside record labels and award-winning artists, to over two years dedicated to training as a Zen monk, Toku's multifaceted expertise fuels his approach to coaching. Today, he leverages this unique blend of academic, spiritual, and professional experiences to empower others on their paths of self-discovery and personal growth, making him a leading figure in the field.