Introduction

The purpose of this evaluation is to explore the experiences and impact of the third cohort of the Public Narrative Coach Training Program (PNCTP), an eight-week program offered by the Leading Change Network (LCN). In addition to assessing this specific cohort, the evaluation aims to lay the groundwork for a future, comprehensive evaluation of the three completed PNCTP cohorts.

Public Narrative Coach Training Program

Over the course of eight weeks, the program engaged participants in focused learning on various aspects of Public Narrative. Each week tackled a distinct topic, including: Introduction to Public Narrative, Story of Self, Story of Us, Story of Now, Linked Narrative, coaching for agency, and strategies for sustaining the work. A key aspect of the program’s delivery system was the involvement of six meta-coaches, each of whom facilitated small group sessions. These experienced coaches guided participants by breaking down concepts, demonstrating coaching methods, and providing detailed feedback both in real time and via video. Thirty-six participants started and completed the eight week program. They represent a wide geographical diversity, with a notable concentration of participants from North America, particularly the United States and Canada, and one participant from Mexico. In addition, there are participants from several countries in Europe, including Austria, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom, as well as participants from the Middle East (Jordan and Lebanon) and Asia (Indonesia, Japan, and
Thailand).

Evaluation Highlights

• Participants engaged deeply with the eight week program, increased their skills in public narrative storytelling and reported major advances in their ability to coach others in the practice.
• The Public Narrative Coach Training Program received high marks overall from participants, in particular the depth of the curriculum and the supportive pedagogical delivery.

Evaluation Findings

1. PNCTP graduates emerged as confident change agents.
2. PNCTP graduates are confident in their ability to coach Public Narrative.
3. PNCTP graduates reported increases in leadership skills.
4. Participants were satisfied with the opportunity to apply skills at the Harvard Workshop.
5. Overall Program Assessment was quite high.
6. Public Narrative Framework was considered thorough and accessible.
7. Program delivery (facilitation and coaching) reported very high.
8. PNCTP graduates are prepared to use their new coaching and leadership skills, contributing to an evolving Leading Change Network.
9. Meta-coaches validate and reinforce the growth and development participants reported.
10. The PNCTP was an overwhelmingly positive experience that graduates would recommend to a friend or colleague.