The Secret To Intercultural Connection – Cross-Cultural Coaching with John Edward McGraw
Things worth taking away
- True cultural adaptation means letting go of surface assumptions
- The LEAP framework: Let go, Engage, Assess, Perform
- Psychological safety is the foundation of intercultural connection
- Coaching tools can bridge cultural divides
About this episode
On this episode of Coach Academy’s Connection Experiment, founder Nathalie Blais reconnects with John Edward McGraw — human connection speaker, intercultural coach, and founder of Hiyaku Coaching — to explore how coaching can bridge cultural divides.
John recounts his journey from teaching English in Japan to becoming a leader in intercultural coaching and explains why true cultural adaptation requires moving beyond surface assumptions toward curiosity and psychological safety.
John introduces his LEAP framework (Let go of assumptions, Engage with curiosity, Assess possibilities, Perform with insight) as a practical tool for navigating unfamiliar social dynamics.
Whether you work across cultures, lead teams, or want clearer interpersonal connection, this episode offers actionable coaching tools and fresh perspectives to strengthen communication and belonging.
Connect with John Edward McGraw: LinkedIn
We believe coaching is a connection skill — practiced on purpose, it changes everything.