In this playful and precise episode of the Towards Solutions podcast, we sit down with Paul Z. Jackson — author, improviser, and co-creator of The Solutions Focus — to explore what it means to build on what’s working and invite change through conversation.

From his roots in journalism and theatre to decades of coaching and consulting, Paul brings a rare blend of performance, clarity, and practical insight. Together, we dive into:

• The power of saying “yes, and…” — and why improvisation matters in leadership and coaching
• How lightness, precision, and curiosity can turn any moment into a chance for movement
• The discipline of noticing — and how to work with what’s already present
• What Solution Focused practice offers when we resist the urge to solve and instead choose to build

Paul reminds us that transformative conversations don’t need to be dramatic — they just need to start from where you are, with what you have.

Whether you’re coaching a team, leading through uncertainty, or simply wanting better conversations, this episode offers clarity, humour, and plenty of moments that will stay with you.

In this vibrant and energising episode of Toward Solutions, we sit down with Ayse Adil — co-founder of Family Based Solutions — to explore what it means to stay truly client-led.

Ayse shares her journey from early scepticism (“I thought Solution Focus was wishy-washy!”) to becoming a passionate and creative advocates. Drawing on her experience with families, young people, survivors, and those who have used violence, she shows how Solution Focus can flex to meet the moment — even in silence.

Together, we explore how a light touch, a strong intuition, and deep respect can unlock new possibilities, even in complex or high-risk situations. Ayse introduces her metaphor of the “brain librarian,” the surprising power of silent sessions, and how humour, humility, and courage to improvise can shift everything.

We explore:

• Moving from scepticism to living Solution Focus as a way of being
• Preparing families to move from problem-focus to possibility-focus
• Adapting Solution Focus to work with survivors, perpetrators, and children
• Letting go of being “strictly Solution Focus” to stay truly client-led
• Why silence, humour, and mistakes can lead to real change

Ayse’s warmth, honesty, and creativity shine in this conversation.

Find out more about Ayse's work at https://familybasedsolutions.org.uk/

"It’s not about being an expert. It’s about being interested.”

In this energising episode of the Towards Solutions podcast, we sit down with Dutch Solution Focused practitioner and organisational consultant Paut Struik, whose wisdom, warmth, and practicality make this a must-listen.

Here’s what we explore:

• What makes a truly surprising conversation—and how to invite one
• How to shift an entire organisation’s culture, starting with leadership
• Why SF doesn’t stop at the frontline—and how it grows by osmosis
• How to use “Intervision” to sustain team learning and energy
• And a small question that can quietly transform any meeting:

Paut reminds us that powerful change doesn’t require grand plans—just small moments of real interest, repeated with intention.

Whether you’re in coaching, leadership, education, health, or just love great conversations—this one’s for you.

Check out one of Paut's projects here; https://www.sfio.org/interaction/2023-1/sf-supporting-system-change/