In this episode of The Coaching Mixer, Erin Aquin and Elana McKernan open up about the cringe-worthy, humbling, and ultimately transformative mistakes they’ve made in their coaching and businesses. Over cocktails, they dig into what happens when you drop the ball with a client, how to repair trust without spiraling into self-blame, and why true integrity in business is rarely about being perfect.
Together they unpack the myth that “you never apologize” in business, and make a case for honesty, humility, and handling things like a pro without losing your humanity.
Themes explored:
What to do when you mess up with a client
The difference between genuine repair and self-punishment
Turning business blunders into “$10,000 learnings”
Why apologizing can be the most confident move you make
Balancing integrity, leadership, and grace in your coaching practice
It’s a raw, funny, and surprisingly reassuring conversation for any coach who’s ever thought, “Did I just ruin everything?”
Drinks Featured in This Episode:
Elana's Canadian Sake Gimlet
2 oz sake
1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
¾ oz maple syrup (instead of simple syrup)
Shake with ice, strain into a chilled coupe, and garnish with a sprig of rosemary. Smooth, bright, and just a touch Canadian.
Erin's Steve’s Sake Surprise
2 oz sake
½ oz Cointreau
1 oz tonic water
Garnish with an orange peel twist and a maraschino cherry
Light, citrusy, and slightly effervescent—a creative mix inspired by a non-drinker’s experimental genius.
Erin Aquin is a Master Certified Life Coach and co-author of the #1 bestseller "Superabound: Live the Life the Universe is Dreaming For You." She provides whole life coaching for business owners, integrating success and personal fulfillment through her unique all-in-one approach.
Learn more at besuperabound.com
Elana McKernan is a Master Certified Life and Creativity Coach who specializes in helping perfectionists create more by treating themselves better. You can check out her free content here and learn more about coaching with her here.
Watch here:
Listen here: