Built to Last
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Built to Last
What Coaching Actually Is And Why Leaders Need It | Pete Stoddart
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Pete Stoddart joins Levi and Colby to talk about what coaching actually looks like when it is done well and how it can change the way entrepreneurs lead, listen, delegate and make difficult decisions. Drawing from 25 years in hospitality and his own transition into executive coaching, Pete shares how coaching helped him navigate succession, build courage and eventually step into a new chapter with Vision Coaching.
The conversation also explores the difference between coaching and mentoring, the importance of curiosity and vulnerability in leadership, how AI may shape the future of coaching, and what it takes to build a business that can grow beyond the founder.
Connect with Pete: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petestoddart
Connect with Levi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/levilawrence
Connect with Colby: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colby-jardine
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
Levi and Colby welcome Pete Stoddart from Vision Coaching.
01:22 – Meet Pete Stoddart
Pete shares the values, relationships and experiences that have shaped his life and career.
05:42 – From Hospitality to Executive Coaching
How 25 years in hospitality eventually led Pete toward coaching and a partnership with Vision Coaching.
10:11 – Finding His First Coach
Pete shares how coaching helped him navigate succession, uncertainty and leaving the business he had built.
16:33 – Is Coaching Worth the Investment?
Levi and Pete discuss professional development, formal coaching education and investing in yourself.
20:32 – What Coaching Education Changed
Pete reflects on Royal Roads, vulnerability, self-awareness and becoming a better listener, parent and leader.
25:27 – Listening, Curiosity & Better Conversations
Why asking one more question can deepen relationships, uncover real problems and improve change leadership.
30:40 – AI and the Future of Coaching
Pete shares where he believes AI can strengthen coaching — and where human connection still matters.
37:42 – Coaching vs. Mentoring
Pete breaks down the difference between transferring your knowledge and helping someone uncover their own path forward.
43:00 – Coaching as a Leadership Skill
Why coaching is underused by leaders, and why the person being coached has to be ready for the work.
46:36 – Building a Business Beyond Yourself
Pete discusses delegation, EOS, building a strong team and moving beyond being the most important technician in the business.
55:08 – Where to Find Pete & Vision Coaching
Pete shares how to connect with Vision Coaching and learn more about its coaching skills programs.