S3 Bonus - Toku McCree on Building Genuine Client Relationships

Zen Habits Podcast

In our work, there’s often pressure to focus on getting results, closing deals, or following scripts that can feel transactional or impersonal. But for those of us who value genuine connection, this approach often feels misaligned, leaving us questioning how we can serve others in a way that’s true to our values and leads to more meaningful impact.

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome Toku McCree, a close friend, coach, and someone who has redefined the way we think about client relationships. Toku’s background as a Zen practitioner and coach led him to develop a unique approach to building connections with clients—one that centers around authenticity, respect, and integrity. His upcoming book, Coaching Beyond Yes and No, dives into the power of a values-driven approach in fostering lasting client relationships.

In this episode, Toku shares his philosophy on creating client relationships that go beyond “yes” or “no.” Instead of relying on tactics or pressure, he shows us how to use openness and sincerity to build trust and deepen connections. Toku’s insights reveal how shifting our perspective can transform the way we interact with clients, leading to more fulfilling and enduring relationships.

Tune in as we explore how to bring our true selves into our work and create client relationships that reflect our deepest values.

Topics Covered

• The concept of values-driven client relationships
• Moving beyond transactional sales to create genuine connections
• Toku’s journey from Zen student to transformative coach
• Building trust and authenticity in client interactions
• How to approach client relationships with integrity and respect
• Shifting from sales tactics to values-based conversations
• Overcoming the fear of selling by focusing on service
• Techniques for fostering deeper, lasting client relationships
• Toku’s philosophy on collaborative, life-changing conversations
• Creating meaningful impact through authenticity in coaching

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Toku's Bio & Resources

Toku McCree is a distinguished executive coach, speaker, and writer, celebrated for his one-of-a-kind combination of ancient wisdom and modern psychology. His life journey weaves an extraordinary tapestry of diverse experiences, contributing to a profound understanding of human nature and personal growth.

With a degree in philosophy from George Washington University, to eight years working in the entertainment business alongside record labels and award-winning artists, to over two years dedicated to training as a Zen monk, Toku's multifaceted expertise fuels his approach to coaching. Today, he leverages this unique blend of academic, spiritual, and professional experiences to empower others on their paths of self-discovery and personal growth, making him a leading figure in the field.

• Coaching: ceo.unexecutive.com
• Coaching MBA: coachingmba.co/mastermind

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Credits

Music: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro