A Lunch That Reminded Me Why I Love What I Do

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of sharing lunch with two people who have become far more than corporate clients to me: John Wilgar, Chief Procurement Officer at NSG Pilkington, and Marie Gresko, Procurement Process Improvements Manager.

Working with NSG Pilkington has been one of the great privileges of my professional life. NSG Pilkington ranks among the global leaders in glass manufacturing, supplying major industries across more than 100 countries and employing over 25,000 people worldwide.

They don’t simply talk about wellbeing and performance; they invest in it, champion it, and create the environment for it to thrive. And because of that, the progress their teams are making through my coaching programme has been wonderful to see.

The Impact of the Coaching Programme

Over the past year, I’ve been coaching a number of their staff across multiple departments. What has stood out is their willingness to embrace new ideas, reflect deeply, and apply practical strategies immediately.

I’ve seen individuals reshape their working patterns, manage pressure more effectively, strengthen relationships, sharpen strategic focus, and, most importantly, rediscover a sense of balance and control.

When leaders genuinely care about their people, the ripple effect is powerful. John and Marie have created that culture, and it’s why the coaching has been so effective.

Why the Coaching Works So Well

People often ask me what makes my coaching different. The answer lies in three areas:

1. A structured, proven system

Every staff member on the programme moves through a process designed to create behavioural change, not just temporary motivation. Tools like the Ivy Lee Method, Deep Work, emotional regulation strategies, confidence techniques and RAS visualisation give people something they can apply immediately.

2. Accountability combined with empathy

I challenge people, but I also walk beside them. My background as a former professional basketball player, a business owner who has known both success and struggle, and someone who rebuilt his life through mindset work gives me a unique empathy. I know what pressure feels like. I know what self-doubt feels like. And I know how to transform both.

3. Real-world experience

Because I’ve spent decades in high-performance environments, sport, business, and leadership, I understand the realities my clients face. This helps me tailor every session to their world, not to a theoretical model.

This blend of structure, empathy and lived experience is why individuals across NSG Pilkington are making such substantial progress.

Three Key Learnings

1. Stress doesn’t disappear on its own, but it can be managed with the right tools.

Most people are never taught how to reset, refocus, or regulate their emotions, when they learn how, the change is immediate.

2. Productivity is not about working harder; it’s about working intentionally.

Simple strategies like the Ivy Lee Method, time blocking, or reactive vs. proactive planning can transform performance.

3. Confidence grows through small wins, not big leaps.

When people feel supported, understood, and guided, their belief naturally and sustainably expands.

This year with NSG Pilkington has reminded me why coaching is so powerful and why I am so passionate about it. When individuals feel heard, supported, and challenged in the right way, they don’t just improve, they transform.

Thoughts for the week

1. If nothing changed in your life except your ability to handle pressure better, how different would your days feel?

• What is one habit you know would improve your wellbeing or productivity… but you haven’t started yet? Why?

• What part of your life would transform the most if you had consistent support, encouragement, and accountability?

A Final Word of Appreciation

John and Marie, thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your belief in developing your people. It is a privilege to work with you, and I look forward to supporting even more of your staff in the months ahead.

Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful week ahead, and keep believing.

Warm regards

John

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