Mind Maps for Coaching

In this insightful conversation, Liz Oseland shares her journey into mind mapping and how it has evolved into a cornerstone of her coaching and leadership development work. From her early exposure to Tony Buzan’s “pure” mind mapping style to her current digital and analog practices, Liz explores how mind mapping supports clarity, creativity, reflection, and coaching impact. She offers a deep dive into practical applications—from project planning to emotional grounding—and introduces her frameworks like 5W1H and Ikigai as coaching tools enhanced through visual mapping. Timestamped Themes & Topics [00:00:00] Introduction & Background Liam introduces Liz as a long-time Biggerplate contributor. Liz discusses her journey into mind mapping, starting with visual techniques pre-dating her formal training with Tony Buzan and Chris Griffiths. [00:02:19] Learning the “Pure” Mind Mapping Approach Liz reflects on her exposure to Buzan’s structured method—emphasizing one-word-per-branch clarity—and the listening skills this enhances. [00:06:55] Pre-Mind Mapping Career Context Liz outlines her earlier roles in programme management, leadership training, and coaching in both UK and Australia before embracing mind mapping in her professional toolkit. [00:08:44] Visual and Kinesthetic Learning She explains how being a visual and kinesthetic learner shaped her affinity for mind mapping, connecting it to the “Make to Know” creative philosophy. [00:12:29] Software Use and Cognitive Impact Discussion around how digital mind mapping supports thinking, planning, and task management—particularly via tools like Ayoa. [00:15:38] Liz’s Current Coaching Focus Liz explains her focus areas: Leadership, Innovation, and “Zen”—offering everything from ILM qualifications to executive coaching and creative thinking workshops. [00:18:05] Everyday Mind Mapping Uses Examples from personal and professional life, including shopping lists, birthday planning, and project prep, showing mapping as an embedded habit. [00:20:05] 5W1H Question Mapping Technique Liz demonstrates how asking “Who, What, Where, When, Why, How” helps surface hidden assumptions, reduce anxiety, and guide client reflection. [00:24:56] Capture ? Categorise ? Prioritise A coaching sequence Liz uses to help clients navigate overwhelm and focus on key questions, including the reflective question: “What’s keeping you up at night?” [00:29:04] Coaching Contexts and Client Profiles Liz supports both aspiring and established leaders, returners from parental leave, and individuals facing career transitions—each using mapping in tailored ways. [00:31:58] Mindfulness & Hand-Drawn Maps Liz discusses how hand-drawn mapping slows thinking, supports mindfulness, and provides therapeutic release, even if not everyone embraces it. [00:36:09] Coaching Process Map Example She shares a digital coaching map structure used collaboratively with clients to track goals, learning styles, session notes, and resources. [00:45:56] Ikigai Mind Map Example Liz presents her mind mapping adaptation of the Japanese concept of Ikigai (purpose)—a powerful tool for coaching deeper reflection around passion, strengths, livelihood, and meaning. [00:51:13] Map Types: Process vs Compass Differentiation between coaching maps that manage process/logistics and maps like Ikigai used for periodic re-orientation or self-awareness. [00:52:19] Mapping for Neurodiversity & Accessibility Discusses Ayoa and features like color backgrounds for dyslexia, plus AI tools that support efficiency and personalization. [00:55:59] AI in Mind Mapping — Support, Not Substitute Liz shares how she uses AI to check—not create—maps, and emphasizes the importance of starting with her own thinking. [00:56:42] “Mindful Mapping” and Its Emerging Value Liz and Liam reflect on the idea of “mindful mapping” as a unique method for slowing down, thinking differently, and finding calm in chaos.