In this first episode of The Agile Skills Library, Geoff Watts and Paul Goddard unpack SPEED coaching — a simple way to choose how to help, not just what to do.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering “Should I give advice here… ask better questions… step back… or change the system instead?” — this episode is for you.

SPEED is a simple but surprisingly powerful way to consciously choose how you help, based on the situation, the relationship, and the kind of impact you’re aiming for. It’s not about “doing coaching properly” or sticking rigidly to one style. It’s about judgment.

In this episode, we walk through the full SPEED model using a very real Scrum Master scenario, exploring when each approach makes sense, the trade-offs involved, and why faster help often creates dependency — while slower help tends to stick.

This episode is primarily aimed at Scrum Masters, Agile Coaches, and team coaches, but the ideas apply just as well if you’re a leader, a manager, or even thinking through your own decisions.

You’ll also find a free downloadable SPEED coaching template from the link below to help you use the model with a team, a colleague, or yourself.

https://www.inspectandadapt.com/podcasts/ep1-speed-coaching

Timestamps

Introduction to the Podcast and Series (00:00:03)

Geoff and Paul introduce themselves, the podcast, and the Agile Skills Library series.

Purpose and Audience of SPEED Coaching (00:00:46)

Explanation of the SPEED Coaching technique, its intended audience, and why it’s important.

Coaching Myths and Directive vs. Non-Directive Styles (00:03:04)

Discussion of common coaching myths, especially about Socratic questioning and directive vs. non-directive coaching.

Overview of the SPEED Model (00:04:30)

Introduction to the SPEED acronym, its temporal aspect, and the impact of different coaching stances.

Scenario Setup: Retrospectives Not Leading to Action (00:07:03)

A practical scenario is introduced: a team not implementing retrospective improvements.

S: Suggestions (00:08:14)

Explaining the “Suggestions” stance—giving direct ideas or advice to the team.

P: Proof (00:12:19)

Explaining the “Proof” stance—providing data, evidence, or encouraging experiments to inform decisions.

E: Enablers (00:16:38)

Explaining the “Enablers” stance—helping the team by removing impediments or providing tools/templates.

E: Environment (00:20:28)

Explaining the “Environment” stance—changing systemic or environmental factors to influence team behavior.

D: Drivers (00:23:53)

Explaining the “Drivers” stance—exploring core values, motivations, and personal/team drivers for deeper change.

Recap and Application Tips (00:26:15)

Summary of the SPEED model, emphasising conscious choice and that no stance is inherently good or bad.

Template and Listener Engagement (00:28:10)

Announcement of a downloadable SPEED Coaching template and invitation for listener feedback.

Series Continuation and Call for Input (00:28:44)

Encouragement for listeners to suggest future topics and help shape the podcast’s direction.

Closing Remarks (00:29:49)

Thanking listeners, encouraging use of the technique, and signing off.