Episode 364 – Alex Stylianou & Darren Murray | Objectivity, Mentorship & the Complexity of Modern Coaching

The Coaches Network Podcast

🎙 Episode 364 – Alex Stylianou & Darren Murray | Objectivity, Mentorship & the Complexity of Modern Coaching

In this episode, Coach Yas sits down with Alex Stylianou (UEFA A Licence Holder) and Darren Murray (UEFA A Licence Holder) to explore what it really means to develop as a coach in today’s complex, content-heavy world.

Alex and Darren bring unique perspectives from working across national teams, academy football, and international development settings. This conversation unpacks the subtle tensions between objectivity and subjectivity in coaching, the real value of mentorship, and the importance of grounding your learning in frameworks rather than trends.

💡 Key Talking Points

• Why “objective” coaching isn’t about being cold and clinical—but clear and consistent.
• How Alex’s and Darren’s diverse pathways shaped their views on coach learning and reflection.
• The danger of mentorship becoming “guru-led” instead of dialogue-driven.
• Why complexity in coaching demands more humility, not more hacks.
• How to build a learning environment that challenges assumptions and encourages critical thinking.
• What coaches can do to filter noise and focus on what actually matters in their own practice.

🧠 “It’s not about who you follow—it’s about what you’re asking, what you're reflecting on, and what you're applying.” – Darren Murray

📣 Whether you're early in your coaching journey or leading development in your club or organisation, this episode will push your thinking around mentorship, learning, and what it takes to coach with clarity in complex times.

👉 Like, share, and follow if this conversation sparked new reflections for you!

💬 Join the conversation on LinkedIn—share your takeaways and tag us to let us know how you’re navigating the complexity of modern coaching in your own setting.

Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-coaches-network-podcast/exclusive-content
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy