Podcast Summary: Turning Questions Around - Being the Mirror

Welcome to Help Best, the weekly quickcast where I share skills and tactics to help our mentor team guide gym owner clients to success. In today’s episode, I’m talking about an incredibly powerful coaching tactic: turning the question around or being the mirror.

I start with a personal story about a pivotal moment in my life. Ten years ago, I was considering a big move but felt unsure. A friend asked me a simple but profound question: "What could they say that would make you stay?" That question made me realize there was nothing that would keep me where I was. It gave me the clarity I needed to make a difficult decision. Fast forward to today, when I faced a similar question about staying on as CEO of my company. The same question rocked me again, prompting deep reflection.

At a recent Strategic Coach meeting, I noticed that the coach never answered questions directly but instead turned questions around on the person asking. This technique—acting as a mirror—helps clients discover their own answers and make stronger, more confident decisions.

In this episode, I explain how you can use this strategy in your mentorship calls. Often, the best mentors aren’t there to provide answers; they’re there to help clients uncover the truth they already know deep down. I share seven powerful questions you can use, each tied to specific challenges gym owners frequently face:

"What would happen if you didn't make this change?"

Example: Hesitating to increase prices despite low profitability.

"What would success look like if you solved this problem?"

Example: Retaining clients after a short-term challenge ends.

"What is stopping you from taking action right now?"

Example: Avoiding hiring because of fear of finding the right person.

"If you could wave a magic wand, what would be different in your business?"

Example: Wanting more time to focus on strategy instead of operations.

"How would your future self thank you for making this decision today?"

Example: Debating whether to introduce semi-private training.

"What do you know deep down that you're afraid to admit?"

Example: Knowing a tough conversation with an underperforming staff member is needed.

"What is the smallest first step you can take right now?"

Example: Overwhelmed by marketing but starting with scheduling one post.

I close with a challenge for you: on your next mentorship call, test this mirroring strategy. Come prepared with a few of these questions and see how your client’s mindset shifts as they find their own answers.

Being the mirror can change lives, and it can change businesses. Let's keep helping gym owners succeed, one powerful question at a time.