Coaching From the Desert Podcast
Episode 7
My First 30 Days as an Expat and
Executive Coach in Saudi Arabia
Guest: Michael Tucker, PCC
Wednesday, July 16, 2025
11:00 am - 12:00 pm (Arizona Time)
|
In this Coaching in the Desert episode, Dr. Dave welcomes Michael Tucker, an executive coach who exchanged the familiar sands of Tucson, Arizona, for a new life in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Michael has just completed his first 90 days abroad, and he shares what it truly takes to step outside your comfort zone and start fresh in a completely different culture. Dr. Dave and Michael will keep it warm and candid, mixing heartfelt insights with a touch of humor as they explore the ups and downs of this life-changing transition.
About
Michael Tucker has over 20 years of experience leading teams as a former Air Force officer, building successful businesses as an entrepreneur, and supporting leaders as an International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) executive coach. His work has generated $1.7 billion in revenue for Fortune 500 and mid-sized companies and supported countless small businesses, leaders, and their families. Michael’s efforts have also significantly enhanced leadership effectiveness and organizational performance outcomes for several federal government agencies and nonprofits.
Currently, Michael serves as an Executive Coach in Saudi Arabia, leading the Leadership Amplifier Program (LAMP), designed to coach, train, and develop high-performing senior managers into executives within the Saudi Electricity Company. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Carolina, a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma, and a postgraduate certificate in Executive and Professional Coaching from the University of Texas-Dallas. He enjoys pickleball, hiking, herbalism, and traveling with Ellen, his wife of 17 years.