Podcast appearances and mentions of alison wood brooks

In this episode of Spill the Tea, host Jason Blitman is joined by Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist, Harvard Business School professor, and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Curious. They talk about her TALK maxims, what it means to be curious, tapping the adjacent possible, and Alison shares what makes a perfect conversation.Dr. Alison Wood Brooks is the O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School. She studies the behavioral science of conversation, teaches an award-winning course in the MBA curriculum called TALK, and chairs a program for executives called Communicating for Impact. She was named a Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor by Poets & Quants.SUBSTACK!https://gaysreading.substack.com/ MERCH!http://gaysreading.printful.me BOOK CLUB!Use code GAYSREADING at checkout to get first book for only $4 + free shipping! Restrictions apply.http://aardvarkbookclub.com WATCH!https://youtube.com/@gaysreading FOLLOW!Instagram: @gaysreading | @jasonblitmanBluesky: @gaysreading | @jasonblitmanCONTACT!hello@gaysreading.com

Talk isn't cheap, it's powerful. The right conversation can build trust, foster belonging, and show people they matter. But as Harvard's Dr. Alison Wood Brooks has found, sometimes we're just not that great at it. Her new book offers practical advice on how to prep and master small talk, and how to really listen. It's called Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves.

Struggling with small talk? Dreading awkward silences? According to Harvard professor and author Alison Wood Brooks, there's a 10-second trick that can instantly make you a better conversationalist—and it's backed by science. In this episode, host Lauren McGoodwin sits down with Alison to explore why meaningful conversations matter more than ever, and how we can all get better at them with just a few intentional changes.You'll learn:The “10-second trick” that boosts connection and flow in any conversationThe biggest mistakes people make when trying to be engaging—and how to fix themHow stronger conversation skills can accelerate your career and build confidenceWhether you're prepping for a performance review, networking event, or just want to connect more deeply with the people in your life, this episode will give you practical tools to speak up and stand out.Show NotesWeekly Newsletter Sign-Up: http://bit.ly/37hqtQW Sponsor:Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/contessa to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today.Guest Resources:Buy the book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/708473/talk-by-alison-wood-brooks/Follow the TALK book tour: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/events/ Practice using call-backs: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/conversation-book/ Download the TALK workbook: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/conversation-book/ Follow Alison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-wood-brooks-7b98b826/ And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profalisonbrooks/ Career Contessa ResourcesBook 1:1 career coaching session: https://www.careercontessa.com/hire-a-mentor/ Take an online course: https://www.careercontessa.com/education/ Get your personalized salary report: https://www.careercontessa.com/the-salary-project/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

[32:16] A top Harvard professor shares how asking better questions boosts connection, deepens dialogue, & transforms conversations—backed by research- Part 1/2

Award-winning behavioral scientist and leading expert on the psychology of conversation Dr. Alison Wood Brooks joins Google to discuss her book, “Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves.” The book reveals the hidden architecture of our conversations, and how even small improvements can have a profound impact on all types of relationships. Dr. Brooks is a professor at Harvard Business School, where she created and teaches a course called “Talk.” Her award-winning research has been published in top academic journals and is regularly cited in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, NPR, and more. Her research was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED talks of all time and depicted in Pixar's Inside Out 2.  Watch this episode at youtube.com/TalksAtGoogle.

Alison Wood Brooks is a celebrated Harvard Business School Professor who studies the hidden architecture of conversations. Her groundbreaking work shows that while all of us can struggle with difficult conversations, We're often not very good at the easy ones either (even though we have them all the time). Alison argues that part of the reason for this is because conversation is one of the most complex, demanding, and delicate of all human tasks. Every time we converse with one another, a wide range of possibilities for misinterpretation and misunderstanding arise. It's just part of it. And yet, at the same time, conversations can also be a source of great joy. Each one offering an opportunity to express who we are,to learn who others are—and to feel connected, loved, and alive.In Alison's words, there's a "magic" that happens when we get conversation right.Today we are going to have a deep and wide ranging conversation about how to have better conversations. Alison and I will dive into themes from her wonderful new book:TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being OurselvesThroughout our time together Alison will offer powerful insights, moving stories, and practical tweaks to not only make our everyday conversations better,but that also might just have a profound positive impact on our relationships at work and in life.For more on Alison, her book, and the wonderful work she is doing please visit alisonwoodbrooks.com.Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are other conversations we think you'll love:On Mastering Our Emotional Life | Ethan KrossOvercoming Self-doubt and Imposterism | Dr. Jill StoddardEnjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Today, you're going to learn exactly how to earn more, get promoted, network more effectively, and finally land your dream job. This is the most important career advice you'll ever hear. In this episode, Mel sits down with Harvard Business School Professor Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, who's pulling back the curtain on everything your boss won't tell you: from mastering negotiation and communication to building real influence at work. Dr. Brooks teaches Harvard's #1 course on negotiation and communication. Today, she's giving you information that could change everything. Whether you've just been laid off and need a roadmap, you're stuck at a job and craving recognition, or you're doing well but ready to level up – this episode is your next step forward. Here's what you'll learn: -How to ask for a raise, and actually get it. -What it really takes to earn a promotion. -How to nail any interview with confidence. -The path to discovering and landing your dream job. -The science behind negotiation, and how to do it better. -How to handle high-stakes conversations with ease. -Strategies to conquer anxiety and show up like a leader.  If you're ready to make more money, step into your power, and move your career forward with clarity and confidence this episode is your playbook. For more resources, click here for the podcast episode page. If you liked this episode, and want more incredible communication tools, listen to this next: Research From Princeton: 13 Proven Hacks That Boost Your Influence & Make You More ConfidentConnect with Mel:  Get Mel's #1 bestselling book, The Let Them TheoryWatch the episodes on YouTubeFollow Mel on Instagram The Mel Robbins Podcast InstagramMel's TikTok Sign up for Mel's personal letter Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes ad-freeDisclaimer

How the letters in the acronym TALK can have a profound effect on the next conversation you have.

Whether we're interacting with colleagues, clients, friends, family members or strangers, conversations are the way most of us build — or break — relationships. And yet we don't often think deeply about how to approach this type of casual communication.  Alison Wood Brooks, associate professor at Harvard Business School, has studied what it takes to create a great conversation and offers research-backed tips for improving your skills. Brooks is the author of the book Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves.

Purposeful questions do more than clarify details—they reveal how you think and demonstrate leadership potential. Amy Gallo talks with a program manager looking to strengthen her executive presence and question-asking skills. Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks joins them to offer research-backed guidance on eliciting useful responses, building credibility through questions, and adapting to different conversational settings.

Alison Wood Brooks, a celebrated Harvard Business School professor and leading expert on the psychology of conversation, shares easy tips that will make you a better conversationalist.

Ditch the awkwardness and start owning every conversation. Talking to people shouldn't feel like a struggle—but let's be honest, it often does. Maybe you're stuck in small talk hell, getting ignored in meetings, or watching conversations die mid-sentence. Why is this so hard? Amy sits down with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, to expose the hidden science behind great conversations—and why most of us are getting it wrong. They break down the TALK framework (Topics, Asking, Levity, and Kindness) and unpack the subtle mistakes that make people tune out, disengage, or just not like talking to you. Whether you want to command the room, sound sharper in meetings or just stop replaying every interaction in your head, Alison delivers straight-shooting, science-backed strategies to help you talk better, connect faster, and stress less. Get all of the show notes at RadicalCandor.com/podcast. Episode Links: Transcript Alison Wood Brooks Talk: The Science Of Conversation and the Art Of Being Ourselves Alison Wood Brooks | LinkedIn Connect: Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn Facebook YouTube Chapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionAmy Sandler welcomes Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation.(00:01:44) The Power of Connection in ConversationHow small, personal connections can create deeper conversations.(00:02:53) What Inspired Talk?Dr. Wood Brooks shares how she became fascinated with conversation science.(00:07:25) Giving Conversation FeedbackWhy most people receive little feedback on their conversational skills.(00:13:17) The Hidden Coordination GameHow small, unconscious decisions shape every conversation.(00:18:54) The TALK FrameworkTopics, Asking, Levity, and Kindness—the four keys to better conversations.(00:20:24) Practicing ListeningGuided exercises and listening techniques from the Talk course.(00:21:39) The Science Behind Mind-WanderingWhy we tune out during conversations and how to stay present.(00:29:06) The Challenges of Group ConversationsWhy group conversations are harder to manage than one-on-one talks.(00:34:05) Digital vs. In-Person TalkHow virtual communication changes conversations.(00:36:51) Designing Better MeetingsStrategies for leaders to create inclusive and effective meetings.(00:39:37) Boomer AskingThe conversational habit that makes people disengage.(00:44:28) Where to Find Dr. Wood BrooksDr. Wood Brooks shares where to find her work and book tour details.(00:45:32) Conclusion Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alison Wood Brooks is a renowned behavioral scientist, professor at Harvard Business School,and the author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and The Art of Being Ourselves.Her work focuses on the psychology of conversation, emotion, and behavioral decision-making. In this podcast, she dives into the intricacies of good conversation and negotiation. What makes someone a good conversationalist? Why do so many people hate “small talk.” What factors should we consider when beginning a conversation? Plus, find out what 4 actions you can take to have better conversations today. https://alisonwoodbrooks.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG1_DIh33LfXaiEiOscEyGQInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/10secondstoair/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alitaguillen/Web: https://www.alitaguillen.com/Web: https://www.10secondstoair.com/

We spend a lot of time each day in conversation. What if you could get better at it? Alison Wood Brooks, author of the new book, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, shares her research and tips on how to master conversation, become a better listener, navigate difficult discussions - and what makes an effective apology. Alison Wood Brooks joins us from Massachusetts. ________________________ Bio Dr. Alison Wood Brooks is the O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School, where she created and teaches a course called TALK. As a behavioral scientist, she is a leading expert on the science of conversation. Her award-winning research has been published in top academic journals and is regularly cited in media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and NPR. Her research was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED talks of all time and depicted in Pixar's Inside Out 2. In 2021, she was named a Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor by Poets & Quants. "TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves" is her first book. _________________________ For More on Alison Woods Brooks Read Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves Website __________________________ Podcast Episodes You May Like Our New Social Life – Natalie Kerr & Jaime Kurtz Retiring: Creating a Life That Works for You – Teresa Amabile Big Goals – Caroline Adams Miller The Ritual Effect – Michael Norton _________________________ What Will Your Next Story Be? Stay in the Loop with once a month updates on featured conversations and noteworthy articles. Wisdom Notes keeps ideas coming your way once a month to help you create it. _________________________ Best Books for Retirement _________________________ Wise Quotes On Boomerasking "Asking questions is magical. It's why there's a whole part of the acronym is about asking. But Boomerasking, which is named after the outgoing and incoming returning arc of a boomerang, is sort of a boundary condition on the power of question asking, because it's like this. It would be like, I say to you, Joe, have you ever been to Nepal? And you say no, and I'm like, let me tell you about the time I went to Nepal. It's almost like you're thinly veiling your egocentrism and sort of self-centeredness, your desire to disclose about yourself. You're kind of masking it with this insincere question. And you hear it all the time. And what we find in our research is that when I say, have you ever been to Nepal, first of all, that question is so specific, you're already on high alert. You're like, oh, God, here comes a story about Nepal. But even if I were to ask you, like, how was your weekend, and then I let you answer, and even if you were excited to answer that, and then I bring it right back to myself immediately without following up on your answer, it makes you feel like I wasn't interested to begin with. And that's a really bad feeling. In the end, conversation needs to be sort of ping pongy back and forth, where both people are sharing about themselves, but also feeling affirmed and validated and listened to as we're playing this ping pong game. And so if you bring it right back to yourself in boomerask, it undermines the healthy ping ponginess of a conversation. Thank you. Follow ups and callbacks do exactly the opposite. So whereas Boomer asks are a villain and you're doing, you're bringing it too much back to yourself, which people do all the time. Follow up questions, keep the focus on the other person. So anytime someone gives you this great gift of a disclosure, you share anything about your weekend. Or if I say, have you been to Nepal and you say, no, but I've been to Tibet or whatever.If they're giving you any sort of sharing, some disclosure,

Today's conversation is all about…conversation! We are happy to have Dr. Alison Wood Brooks joining us on the podcast. Alison is a behavioral scientist as well as a professor and Faculty Fellow at Harvard Business School. She created and teaches a course called “TALK” and has now taken her research and published it in her new book also titled TALK! Many of us as parents want our kids to grow and learn in the area of communication - communicating with us, with their friends, with teachers or coaches, etc. Whether you have extroverted or introverted kids - this episode is for you. We touch on things like how to help your extroverted child find balance in discussions by letting others participate, and teaching introverted children how to feel comfortable in conversations to create strong friendships and excel at school. We also discuss how to approach difficult topics, especially with our significant others. And we end the episode elaborating on the importance of apologies and why this comes easily to some, not so easily to others, and some techniques to help bridge that gap. Links & Resources:20% off your first order of Cymbiotika PLUS free shipping Use code ‘HERSELF' for 10% off your Team SuperCrew purchase, PLUS free gift!Free sample pack with purchase of LMNTFollow Dr. Alison Wood Brooks on InstagramAlison's WebsitePurchase Alison's Book; “Talk: The science of conversation and the art of being ourselves”Let's connect!HERSELF PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/herselfpodcastHERSELF INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/herselfpodcastMEET AMY: http://instagram.com/ameskieferMEET ABBY: http://instagram.com/abbyrosegreenThis episode was brought to you by the Pivot Ball Change Network.

Welcome to episode #973 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Alison Wood Brooks is one of the leading voices in understanding the science of human conversation, and her latest book, Talk - The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, explores just how complex, delicate, and transformative our daily interactions can be. As a professor at Harvard Business School, Alison has spent years studying the psychology behind dialogue - why some conversations feel effortless while others fall flat, how we navigate social dynamics, and why even the simplest exchanges can shape our relationships and success. In our conversation, we explore the difference between Q&A and true dialogue, the often-overlooked art of reading the room, and the skills that can make or break an interaction. Alison shares insights on the role of AI in companionship, the way egocentrism naturally seeps into our conversations, and why teaching conversational skills is more critical than ever in a digital-first world. We also discuss the post-Covid social shift, the importance of face-to-face interactions, and how conversational missteps - something we all experience - can actually strengthen relationships if handled the right way. Her TALK Maxims (Topics, Asking, Levity, Kindness) offer a simple yet powerful framework for improving everyday communication, whether in personal relationships, business, or even in navigating difficult discussions. If you've ever struggled with what to say, when to say it, or how to be a better conversationalist, this episode will help you rethink the way you talk... and listen. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:06:51. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Listen and subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Listen and subscribe over at Spotify. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Alison Wood Brooks. Talk - The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. Check out her band: The Lights Follow Alison on Instagram. Follow Alison on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Conversation Science. (02:49) - The Dynamics of Q&A vs. Conversation. (05:58) - The Art of Eavesdropping and Voyeurism in Conversations. (08:53) - Emerging Science of Conversation. (11:59) - AI and Human Conversations. (15:06) - The Role of AI in Companionship. (18:01) - Egocentrism in Conversations. (20:46) - Alpha and Beta Dynamics in Conversations. (23:51) - Teaching Conversation Skills. (27:07) - Conversational Toggling in a Digital Age. (32:00) - The Fleeting Nature of In-Person Connections. (35:06) - The Impact of AI on Human Interaction. (38:58) - Navigating Post-Covid Social Dynamics. (43:03) - The Importance of Reading the Room. (48:03) - Breaking the Pace in Conversations. (52:01) - The Value of Topic Preparation. (57:02) - Foot-in-Mouth Moments and Repair Strategies.

You probably think raw vegetables are healthier than cooked vegetables. Sometimes they are. But some common veggies get a nutrient boost from the right kind of heat. This episode begins with several of those vegetables and an explanation of how cooking makes them better for you. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/raw-veggies-are-healthier/ Humans are wired to imitate others like no other creature on earth. In fact, almost everything you do today is the result of imitating someone else at some point in your life. But wait! Aren't we independent thinkers with intelligence and ability to think for ourselves? Yes, but according to my guest the primary way you learn everything is by copying others – from driving a car, writing a letter, eating a meal, everything you've learned how to do came from imitating others. Here to explain why this is important to understand is R. Alexander Bentley, Professor and Chair of the Department of Anthropology at the University of Tennessee and coauthor of the book, I'll Have What She's Having: Mapping Social Behavior (https://amzn.to/4kbT4NK). Your conversational skills are key to your success in every aspect of your life. People like people who speak well. Yet, I suspect no one ever really taught you how to converse. You just do it. Conversation is both an art and a science. And someone who studies it is my guest Alison Wood Brooks, Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School. She is author of the book TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves (https://amzn.to/4bgzWtF). Listen as she reveals the anatomy of good conversation and what can often go wrong. One of the cool things about a snowfall is how quiet it is afterwards. And it's not just quiet – it's a different kind of quiet. Why is that? Listen as I reveal the science of the quiet after a new fallen snow. Source: Kathy Wollard author of How Come (https://amzn.to/3XfrMvN). PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! FACTOR: Eat smart with Factor! Get 50% off at https://FactorMeals.com/something50off DELL: Anniversary savings await you for a limited time only at https://Dell.com/deals SHOPIFY:  Nobody does selling better than Shopify! Sign up for a $1 per-month trial period at https://Shopify.com/sysk and upgrade your selling today! HERS: Hers is changing women's healthcare by providing access to GLP-1 weekly injections with the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy, as well as oral medication kits. Start your free online visit today at https://forhers.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alison Wood Brooks (Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves) is a behavioral research scientist. Alison joins the Armchair Expert to discuss why growing up as a twin is like watching an alternate version of your own life, how we underestimate the complexity of chin wagging, and the reality that human connection is not just about transactional information exchange. Alison and Dax talk about Kant's sparkling smart people dinner party rules, how hungry we can be to extract vulnerability from others while being hesitant to share it ourselves, and how asking more questions creates magic in one's personal life. Alison explains research she's done into the relationship between humor and power, how asking more questions creates magic in one's personal life, and why saying “I'm sorry” is more powerful than “I love you.”Follow Armchair Expert on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch new content on YouTube or listen to Armchair Expert early and ad-free by joining Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/armchair-expert-with-dax-shepard/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Last week on the show, we looked at the science of conversation, and how even ordinary chats can involve a delicate dance of coordination. This week, we explore the discussions we all dread: the tough ones. Telling someone they treated us poorly. Demanding a raise. Taking away an elderly relative's car keys. We talk with Alison Wood Brooks about what makes difficult conversations difficult, and a series of psychological techniques to help you navigate them.If you missed part one of our conversation with Alison, be sure to check it out! It's titled "We Need to Talk."  Shankar also mentioned our episode with Julia Minson, in which we discuss how to keep conflicts from spiraling. You can find that conversation here. 

This week, Anthony talks with Alison Wood Brooks, a professor at Harvard Business School, about her brand-new book TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. They explore human interaction, self-disclosure, and the importance of authenticity. Alison highlights listening, charisma, and apologies in relationships, while also discussing nature vs. nurture in conversation and the role of humor and kindness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Help us improve the show by filling out our audience survey: bit.ly/4j01Gq0 In this episode of Get Hired, LinkedIn Editor Andrew Seaman sits down with Alison Wood Brooks, who is a Harvard Business School professor and the author of "Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves," about the science of conversation. From navigating networking events to acing your next job interview, great conversations can transform your career. Alison shares her research and top tips on how anyone can improve their communication skills and make their next conversation more enjoyable and productive. Key Topics: Alison's research on conversations How to choose conversation topics effectively How to avoid the “small talk trap” at networking events The art of asking good questions Navigating difficult conversations and overcoming anxiety Links and Resources: Follow Alison Wood Brooks on LinkedIn here. Check out Alison's book, "Talk: The Science of Conversation and The Art of Being Ourselves" here. Follow Andrew Seaman on LinkedIn here. Listen to more episodes of Get Hired with Andrew Seaman here.

Just because we've been doing something for a long time doesn't mean we're doing it right. One part of our lives where this may be particularly true is when we're talking with others. This week, we bring you the first of a two-part look at what makes someone skilled at socializing. Behavioral scientist Alison Wood Brooks explains why conversations are much more complex than most of us realize — and how to engage in a more meaningful back-and-forth with another person.For more of our work on the art of conversation, check out these classic Hidden Brain episodes: Why Conversations Go WrongRelationships 2.0: How to Keep Conflict from Spiraling  

Ever felt lost in a conversation, unsure of what to say or how to keep things interesting? In this episode of FOMO Sapiens, we delve into the secrets of captivating conversations with HBS professor and author of "TALK," Dr. Alison Wood Brooks. Her research reveals that conversation is a "coordination game," where we constantly make choices, often without fully understanding the other person's goals. She offers practical advice and actionable strategies to improve your communication skills in any setting and tells us that, by understanding the science behind conversation and the art of being ourselves, we can unlock deeper connections and ditch the awkward silences for more meaningful interactions. Learn how to become a conversational superstar by mastering the art of asking questions, injecting levity, and embracing vulnerability. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Guy Kawasaki for a fascinating conversation with Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk. As the creator of the innovative "How to Talk Gooder" course, Brooks reveals the science behind great conversations, sharing insights on everything from the power of asking sensitive questions to navigating difficult discussions. Learn her TALK framework and discover why small talk isn't a waste of time after all.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This edWeb podcast is co-sponsored by Penguin Random House Education and Alliant International University. You can access the webinar recording here.Regardless of your role as an educator, how you communicate can directly impact your relationship with students, colleagues, and parents. This edWeb podcast focuses on approaches and strategies to help educators build rapport, establish trust, and navigate not just the difficult conversations but the little ones in between. Whether through face-to-face interactions or communication via phone, email, text, or even social media, learning how to have better conversations can empower you and members of your communities of practice to contribute, collaborate, and build a positive school culture.This session features Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School and the author of TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, in conversation with Dr. Ruth Best, Assistant Dean, and Dr. Jenny Tellez, Assistant Professor and Program Director, both from the California School of Education at Alliant International University.Listeners hear about Dr. Wood Brooks' personal experiences and motivations behind her work as she reveals insights from the research and practical wisdom shared in her book. The conversation includes strategies that can make a significant difference in your professional success, in the quality of relationships, and in preventing misunderstandings. Listen to this edWeb podcast to learn about the science of conversation, the art of being ourselves, and how, as an educator, effective communication skills impact your relationship with your students, colleagues, parents, and communities.This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 teachers, school leaders, district leaders, pre-service teachers, and higher education professionals.Penguin Random House EducationWe foster a universal passion for reading to inform, educate and inspire.Alliant International UniversityWhere purpose-driven students pursue advanced degrees under recognized leaders in their fields.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

Think you're either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you're closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family. This isn't your standard “how-to” guide. Alison's research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate Why humor isn't about being funny—but about finding the fun Alison's favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities   Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you'll want to try out immediately.   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check out Alison's website Alison's Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves

Join Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, as she unpacks the secrets of effective communication. Through her innovative TALK framework—Topic selection, Asking questions, Levity, and Kindness—Alison offers practical strategies to elevate your conversation skills in both personal and professional settings. In this episode, you'll discover: Groundbreaking scientific methods for studying conversation. How biomarkers reveal the emotional dynamics of communication. The concept of entrainment and its role in connecting with others. Insights into the acoustic properties that shape effective dialogue. How Alison's experience as an identical twin informs her research on interpersonal communication. Ready to refine your conversation skills with insights from a behavioral research expert? Pick up your copy of TALK today here, and follow Alison's journey on her website. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Think you're either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you're closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family. This isn't your standard “how-to” guide. Alison's research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate Why humor isn't about being funny—but about finding the fun Alison's favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities   Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you'll want to try out immediately.   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check out Alison's website Alison's Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves  

In this episode, meet Mother Untitled founder Neha Ruch, Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks, and therapist and founder of Black and Embodied Counseling and Consulting Alishia McCullough. Listen to Neha Ruch on opening more choices for women in their careers, Alison Wood Brooks on obsessing about the art of conversation, and Alishia McCullough on the power of representation in building a sense of legacy and in embodying the self. The Power Pause by Neha Ruch: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/739585/the-power-pause-by-neha-ruch/audio/ Talk by Alison Wood Brooks: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/708473/talk-by-alison-wood-brooks/audio Reclaiming the Black Body by Alishia McCullough: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/713617/reclaiming-the-black-body-by-alishia-mccullough-lcmhc/audio

Think you're either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you're closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family. This isn't your standard “how-to” guide. Alison's research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.   Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate Why humor isn't about being funny—but about finding the fun Alison's favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities   Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you'll want to try out immediately.   Resources Mentioned: Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today! Check out Alison's website Alison's Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves

Alison Wood Brooks: Talk Alison Wood Brooks is the O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School, where she created and teaches a course called TALK. As a behavioral scientist, she is a leading expert on the science of conversation and her research was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED talks and depicted in Pixar's Inside Out 2. She is the author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves*. Conversations are the venues where leaders do so much of their work. We all know someone who always can keep a conversation interesting and relevant. In this episode, Alison and I discuss how a key tactic can help you towards more meaningful conversations. Key Points Healthy relationships are critical for success, and relationships are about talking. Good conversation is both instinct and deliberate effort. Preparing topics in advance improves conversation immensely. Topics for conversation can be sourced from almost anywhere and help even if we don't use those topics. Good topic management is more important than the right topic. The best conversationalists know when to shift. Small talk in an essential exploration ground for getting to bigger, more meaningful conversation. Resources Mentioned Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves* by Alison Wood Brooks Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes The Way Into Difficult Conversations, with Kwame Christian (episode 497) How to Help Difficult Conversations Go Better, with Sheila Heen (episode 655) How to Connect with People Better, with Charles Duhigg (episode 670) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.

Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, a distinguished behavioral scientist and Harvard Business School professor, joined Motivational Mondays to discuss her groundbreaking research on the science of conversation. With her course Talk and award-winning studies on human interaction, Dr. Brooks has become a leading voice on improving communication in a complex world. Her work, featured in major media outlets and TED Talks, emphasizes the profound impact of reframing our mindset and embracing better conversational habits.Dr. Brooks began her career studying emotions, particularly anxiety, and how reframing performance anxiety as excitement can transform outcomes. Her findings influenced notable works, including the Pixar movie Inside Out. However, her focus shifted toward conversations after realizing how vital it is to connect through meaningful dialogue. On a personal level, growing up as an identical twin provided her with unique insights into human interaction, enabling her to observe and learn from social dynamics through her sister's experiences.According to Dr. Brooks, entering conversations with clear intent can significantly improve outcomes. She describes the “conversational compass,” a framework that balances informational and relational goals. High-informational goals prioritize clarity and accuracy, while relational goals focus on strengthening bonds. Understanding both aspects helps individuals navigate interactions more effectively, fostering meaningful exchanges that can improve lives both personally and professionally.This week, you'll learn how anxiety negatively impacts communication, the power of referencing something in a conversation, and accepting that you can't control other people's words and actions.LEARN MORE:> > Read her new book, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves (https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/708473/talk-by-alison-wood-brooks)> > Follow Alison on LinkedIn and Instagram (https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-wood-brooks-ph-d-7b98b826)(https://www.instagram.com/profalisonbrooks)> > Learn more on her website (https://alisonwoodbrooks.com)NSLS MEMBERS ONLY:> > Listen to the bonus episode to learn how empathy and apologies help to strengthen relationships, and more details about Dr. Brooks' Harvard course, “Talk” (http://members.nsls.org/audio/alison-wood-brooks)Mentioned in this episode:Get 20% Off at the NSLS ShopUse code MONDAYS for 20% your entire purchase at shop.nsls.orgNSLS ShopNSLS members!

Conversations play a big role in our personal and professional lives. It'd be hard to build or maintain a relationship without them.   That's why Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School Professor and conversation expert, has written the book, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. She's found that if we improve our conversations, even a little, the results can be game changing. In this interview, we talk about the framework she's developed to help us do that. We also discuss how to improve our one-on-one and group conversations. Finally, we learn effective ways to manage difficult conversations, including apologies. Related Links How to Have the Perfect Conversation – and Why It's Good for You Desperate for Better Dialogue? Interview with Jeff Wetzler on Deepening Connections The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

When you use sarcasm in an email or text message, you are skating on thin ice. This episode begins by revealing the dangers of sarcasm in electronic communication and why it can get you in trouble. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/perceptual-asymmetries/201501/do-you-use-sarcasm-in-e-mails Universally, people love cute things. When you see a baby or a puppy or kitten, you react in a unique way. So, what is it about cuteness that we are attracted to? What happens to us internally when we see something cute? And why is it important? Here to explain this is Joshua Paul Dale, a professor at Chuo University in Tokyo and who has been featured as an expert on cuteness in The New York Times, CNN, National Geographic and The Guardian. He is also author of the book, Irresistible: How Cuteness Wired Our Brains and Conquered the World (https://amzn.to/4hkNMgw). You engage in conversations every day with people without thinking a lot about it. But there is an art and science to good conversation and the more you understand it, the better your conversation skills become. Here to dive into the anatomy of good conversation is Alison Wood Brooks. She is a professor at Harvard Business School where she created and teaches a course called TALK. As a behavioral scientist, she is a leading expert on the science of conversation. Alison is author of the book TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves (https://amzn.to/4gVF88z). When you see a car with a flat tire you might figure they hit a nail or the tire was punctured by something. But the most common reason for a tire to blow out is not puncture. Listen as I reveal the most common reason tires fail and how to prevent it. https://blog.openbay.com/post/104697132412/5-facts-you-didnt-know-about-your-tires PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY:  "Established in 2025". Has a nice ring to it, doesn't it? Sign up for a $1 per-month trial period at https://Shopify.com/sysk . Go to SHOPIFY.com/sysk to grow your business! HERS: Hers is changing women's healthcare by providing access to GLP-1 weekly injections with the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy, as well as oral medication kits. Start your free online visit today at https://forhers.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! CURIOSITY WEEKLY: We love Curiosity Weekly, so be sure and listen wherever you get your podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You build your life and career one conversation at a time. But how can we be authentic and impactful while connecting with others? To find out, Oliver sits down with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, celebrated behavioral scientist, Harvard professor, and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves.  Together, they unpack the science behind effective communication and how understanding your "conversational compass" can transform how you connect with others. Dr. Brooks gives invaluable insights into managing emotions during challenging interactions, leveraging humor to combat boredom, and navigating cultural and personal differences with grace.  Plus: Alison shares how her research ended up in a Pixar movie.  Our lives are built one conversation at a time. Expect to learn how you can be authentic and impactful at the same time.  Find out more about Alison Wood Brooks: https://alisonwoodbrooks.com/ Make sure you're subscribed to the Speak Like a CEO newsletter to become a top 1% communicator: https://eoipsocommunications.com/newsletter/ Do you want to speak with confidence, inspire your team, and accelerate your career? You can now join the Speak Like a CEO Academy and work with Oliver over the next 90 days to become a top 1% communicator and transform your career. https://speaklikeaceoacademy.com/

Welcome to Strategy Skills episode 520, an interview with the author of TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves, Alison Wood Brooks.   In this episode, Alison shares how her experiences at Harvard shaped her understanding of one of the most critical skills for anyone in any industry: conversation. She introduces the concept of the “topic pyramid”, which includes small talk, tailored talk, and deep talk, and shares strategies for handling difficult conversations, such as using acknowledgment, affirmation, and hedging language. Alison shows why conversing more effectively can make a big difference in the quality of our close personal relationships and our professional success.   Alison Wood Brooks is an Associate Professor at the Harvard Business School. She created and teaches a cutting-edge course to MBA students and executives.    Get Alison's new book here: https://shorturl.at/WS7i1 Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves   Here are some free gifts for you: Overall Approach Used in Well-Managed Strategy Studies free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/OverallApproach   McKinsey & BCG winning resume free download: www.firmsconsulting.com/resumepdf   Enjoying this episode? Get access to sample advanced training episodes here: www.firmsconsulting.com/promo

In this episode, you'll discover: The hidden psychological patterns that are sabotaging your conversations before they even begin How your attachment style is secretly running the show in every interaction (and what to do about it) The counterintuitive science behind why being more vulnerable actually makes you more powerful   The average person will have 50,000 conversations in their lifetime. Most of them are completely worthless. Not because people are shallow – but because we're terrified of being seen. After years of studying consciousness, diving into plant medicine ceremonies, and exploring quantum physics, doing all the cool spiritual methods, I keep coming back to the simplest truth. The most powerful tool for change is conversation. Real, raw, vulnerable conversation.   I see this every day in my coaching practice. What's therapy? What's transformational coaching? At its core, it's two people talking. But not just any kind of talking. Because we don't change when someone tells us what to do. We change when we come to our own realizations through dialogue. When we hear ourselves say something we've never admitted before. When someone asks us that one question that cracks everything wide open.   The good news? Once you understand the psychology behind what makes conversations work or fail, you can transform every interaction from surface-level small talk into a portal for genuine connection. And I'm not talking about some manipulative "how to win friends and influence people" nonsense. I'm talking about real, raw, soul-level communication that can heal trauma, bridge divides, and maybe even save us from ourselves.   Today's guest is Alison Brooks, a Harvard professor who's cracked the code on conversation. She's not your typical academic – she's done the research on why some people can turn any interaction into gold while others stay stuck in small talk hell. Her new book "Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves" blends cutting-edge research with practical wisdom about how we can all become better at this fundamental human skill. Links from the episode: Show Notes: mindlove.com/384 Join the Mind Love Collective Sign up for The Morning Mind Love for short daily notes to wake up inspired Support Mind Love Sponsors Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Kelly connects with Harvard professor Alison Wood Brooks, who studies the science of conversation. Her new book is called “TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves.”  “Conversation is an ongoing act of co-creation.”  “We're all making it up as we go along.”  “People who ask more questions are better liked.”

Meet Alison Wood Brooks, a professor at the Harvard Business School, mother of three, basketball enthusiast, and author of the new book TALK: The science of conversation and the art of being ourselves. Alison is passionate about helping students hone their conversation skills using an innovative MBA elective curriculum called "How to talk gooder in business and life." Drawing from her expert background in the psychology of conversation, she developed an easy-to-remember acronym – TALK – that outlines the four pillars of communication: Topic selection, Asking questions, Levity, and Kindness. Alison argues that conversation is one of the most complex, demanding, and delicate of all human tasks – and she's on a mission to show others how to refine these skills to enhance both close personal relationships and professional success.  Are you ready to learn the fundamentals of communication from a leading behavioral research scientist? Hit play now! Join the discussion to find out: New methods that scientists are using to study conversation. How Alison's experience as an identical twin shaped her current research interests.  How biomarkers can track the emotional and psychological experience of conversation.  What entrainment is, and what it can tell us about the connection between two talkers. The role that acoustic properties play in conversations. Go pick up your copy of TALK here! And be sure to follow along with Alison and her work by visiting her website.  Boost Your Brainpower with 15% OFF!  Fuel your mind with BrainSupreme Supplements and unlock your full potential. Get 15% OFF your order now using this exclusive link: brainsupreme.co/discount/findinggenius Hurry—your brain deserves the best! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: http://apple.co/30PvU9C

Send us a textThe FTGN Merch Store is Live!! Help Support the site with official FTGN Gear!In this episode, Joe welcomes Harvard professor and author Alison Wood Brooks to discuss her groundbreaking book, Talk: The Science and Art of Being Ourselves. Together, they explore the science behind conversations and how they shape our personal and professional lives.Alison introduces her TALK framework—Topics, Asking, Levity, Kindness—providing actionable strategies to improve communication. She shares why talking can feel so cognitively demanding, the myth of natural charisma, and how intentional choices can lead to deeper, more meaningful connections.Joe and Alison discuss practical tools like navigating the "topic pyramid," creating psychological safety in group settings, and the surprising power of levity. They also highlight the art of mastering conversations in both everyday life and professional environments.Whether you're a leader, a friend, or simply someone wanting to communicate better, this episode offers invaluable insights for connecting with others and being authentically yourself.Dr. Alison Wood Brooks is the O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at the Harvard Business School, where she created and teaches a course called TALK. As a behavioral scientist, she is a leading expert on the science of conversation. Her award-winning research has been published in top academic journals and is regularly cited in media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and NPR. Her research was referenced in two of the top ten most-viewed TED talks of all time and depicted in Pixar's Inside Out 2. In 2021, she was named a Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professor by Poets & Quants. "TALK: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves" is her first book.A special thanks to this week's sponsors!Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Exray a veteran-owned apparel brand elevating the custom gear experience. Exray provides free design services and creates dedicated web stores for units.Onebrief, the transformative software platform redefining operational planning and military staff workflows

What can we learn about the way we speak by analysing thousands of everyday conversations? That's a question that fascinates Alison Wood Brooks. Alison, an associate professor at Harvard Business School, and author of the forthcoming book, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves joins Isabel Berwick to discuss her research. She explains how to plan a conversation even when you don't know who you'll be speaking to, how we misunderstand apologies, and why there's no such thing as too many questions.Want more? Free links:What we talk about when we talk about the officeThe difficult work conversation AI helped me withPresented by Isabel Berwick, produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, mixed by Simon Panayi. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Cheryl Brumley is the FT's head of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We learn the skill of talking as toddlers and by the time we're adults, most of us don't think twice about the inner workings of a conversation. But the reality is, there's a science and an art to conversing. And understanding that science could unlock so much potential in your professional and personal life. Alison Wood Brooks is a professor at Harvard Business School and the author of the book, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. She also teaches a cutting-edge course at Harvard called Talk where she helps students hone their conversational skills. Alison and Greg talk about talking, including why this critical skill should be incorporated into more school curriculums, the complexities of effective communication, and the importance of small talk. Alison also offers tips for enhancing your conversation skills, whether in personal relationships or professional settings. *unSILOed Podcast is produced by University FM.*Show Links:Recommended Resources:Alex PentlandJeffrey Pfeffer | Pfeffer on Power podcast“Risky business: When humor increases and decreases status” by Alison Wood Brooks, T. Bradford Bitterly, and Maurice SchweitzerNicholas Epley | unSILOed GongGuest Profile:Faculty Profile at Harvard Business SchoolProfessional WebsiteProfessional Profile on InstagramHer Work:Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being OurselvesEpisode Quotes:Why aren't people experts at communication?01:59: Language acquisition starts very early in our lives, and we spend almost all day long, every day of our lives, practicing it. And so we get to adulthood, and we feel like we should be experts at it, that we should be really great at it. And yet, as we all know, based on our own ruminations about our own lives, and from our observations of others, we are far from perfect at communication. And the reason that we're not experts at it is because, when you look under the hood, conversation is a lot more complicated and tricky than it first appears, and it takes some rummaging under the hood to understand what's really going on here and why aren't we—why aren't we perfect at it?What makes a successful conversation12:12: A successful conversation is about the combination of prep—what you do ahead of time—and then how well you improvise once you're there. It's the combination of preparation and flexibility.Small talk is the start not the destination in every conversation18:01: Small talk is a very important social ritual. You have to do it. You have to start somewhere, especially with strangers and people you haven't seen in a long time. You gotta start with, like, how are you? Like, what's going on? How are you? It'd be weird not to. The mistake that people make is staying there too long, not finding those off-ramps to move up the pyramid to something more meaningful and interesting.The challenge of explicit goals in conversations10:49: Often, we don't know what we want, and it might emerge as the conversation goes on or as a relationship proceeds. So that's a big problem, right? Like, we just can't possibly anticipate all of the many things that we might want. The second challenge is by making our goals explicit. Like, if we were to say all the things out loud, it would undermine much of the magic that we're actually looking for. We want a conversation to feel almost magical. [11:27]  We want to get there and do the thing without having to say out loud what our goals are. And the things that go unsaid in a conversation really matter. If we were to make everything explicit, a lot of that delight would disappear.

Asking questions is a powerful way to build trust, exchange ideas, and unlock value in organizations. And it is a skill that can be honed to make work conversations more productive, say Leslie K. John and Alison Wood Brooks, professors at Harvard Business School. In this classic episode, they join former host Sarah Green Carmichael to talk through insights from behavioral science research. They share techniques to adjust the frame, tone, and type of questions to improve results—whether you're looking to get information, find solutions, or just get someone to like you. Brooks and John wrote the article “The Surprising Power of Questions” in the May–June 2018 issue of Harvard Business Review.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School professor and author of Talk: The Science of Social Connection. We explore how parents can help their kids—whether they're naturally chatty or more reserved—develop essential communication skills to thrive socially and emotionally. Alison shares practical tools for reframing anxiety, fostering meaningful connections, and using humor and warmth to navigate even the toughest conversations. Whether you're raising an anxious kid, a quiet observer, or a social butterfly, this episode is packed with insights to help your child—and maybe even yourself—feel more confident and connected.I WROTE MY FIRST BOOK! Order your copy of The Five Principles of Parenting: Your Essential Guide to Raising Good Humans Here: https://bit.ly/3rMLMsLSubscribe to my free newsletter for parenting tips delivered straight to your inbox: https://dralizapressman.substack.com/Follow me on Instagram for more:@raisinggoodhumanspodcast Sponsors:Saks.com: Find gifts guaranteed to bring joy to every hard-to-shop-for person this season at saks.com.Instagram: Check our Instagram teen accounts!Kiwico: Get up to 50% off your first crate at kiwico.com, promo code RGHBetterHelp: Visit BetterHelp.com/HUMANS today to get 10% off your first monthBobbie: Shop any of Bobbie's Starter Bundles to see why 500,000 families choose Bobbie! Right now, you can get 10% off your first subscription order of Bobbie's Organic Infant Formula PLUS free shipping on all subscription orders for the duration of your feeding journey by using code RAISINGGOODHUMANS10 at Hibobbie.com code RAISINGGOODHUMANS10 for 10% off your first subscription order. Offer valid for first-time customers only through 12/31/24.Dime: Go to DIMEBeautyCO.com for 25% off with code HOLIDAY25Good Ranchers: Subscribe to any Good Ranchers box and use my special code humans to get a free gift of chicken breasts, ground beef, bacon, or salmon for a year plus free express shipping goodranchers.comPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

​​ What makes a great conversation?“Many of us dread small talk,” says Harvard Business School professor and author Alison Wood Brooks. Yet she believes these everyday exchanges are the gateway to deeper connection and opportunity. An expert in the science of conversation, Wood Brooks, teaches a popular course titled Talk and has spent years researching what makes a great conversation. "Big things often start with small talk," she notes. "It's not about avoiding it; it's about knowing how to use it to uncover something meaningful."In this LinkedIn Live episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wood Brooks joins host Matt Abrahams to share a practical framework for mastering small talk and making it enjoyable, even for those who loathe it. Drawing from her "topic pyramid" approach, Wood Brooks breaks down how to elevate a conversation from mundane chitchat to something memorable. “Think of it as a treasure hunt,” she suggests. “Small talk is where you start looking for golden nuggets that can lead to deeper engagement.”Episode Reference Links:Alison Wood Brooks Alison's Book: TalkEp.73 Listen Up: Why It's Better to Be Interested than Interesting Ep.89 Listen, Listen, Listen: How to Build Deep Connections Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:05) - What Makes a Good Conversation? (04:24) - The Topic Pyramid (07:05) - Preparation for Small Talk (09:21) - Remembering Conversation Details (10:59) - Asking Too Many Questions (12:52) - Conversation Goals and Contexts (16:46) - Virtual vs In-Person Conversations (18:35) - The Importance of Listening (22:29) - Think Fast Talk Smart Premium (23:47) - Conclusion

In this captivating episode of the New Rules for Work Labs podcast, we delve deep into the art of conversation, the impact of AI on workplace dynamics, and strategies for effective group collaboration. Featuring insights from Harvard Business School's Alison Wood Brooks, listeners will explore the layers of conflict in the workplace, navigate the complexities of everyday conversations, understand the significance of silence and structure in communication, and address airtime dominance in group settings. Join us as we explore how to foster inclusive conversations, bridge knowledge gaps, and adapt to the changing landscape of work through practical advice and engaging discussions.To learn more about Alison and her work on the science of communication, check out:• Her website• Her upcoming book, Talk: The science of conversation and the art of being ourselvesTo watch this episode on YouTubeProducer: Podrick Sonicson To learn more about New Rules for Work:WebsiteLabs Newsletter

What should you do when you become the boss? Many of us are promoted into people manager roles without any preparation for the complexities involved in that work. But Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks says there are some basics that will help you get started as a first-time boss. Brooks is an expert in organizational behavior and the psychology of communication. She takes questions from listeners who are struggling as first-time bosses, and talks through what to do when your direct reports are older than you, how to be a likable leader, and what to say if you're not ready to be in charge.Key episode topics include: leadership, leading teams, managing people. HBR On Leadership curates the best case studies and conversations with the world's top business and management experts, to help you unlock the best in those around you. New episodes every week. · Listen to the original Dear HBR episode: First-time Bosses (2018)· Find more episodes of Dear HBR.· Discover 100 years of Harvard Business Review articles, case studies, podcasts, and more at HBR.org.]]>

The ways supercommunicators operate and how to emulate their techniques.Across more than 130 episodes, Think Fast, Talk Smart has touched a lot on what it takes to be a good communicator. But what about reaching that next level? What about being a “supercommunicator”? Supercommunicator is a term used by Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and author Charles Duhigg in his latest book, Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. In this podcast episode, Abrahams and Duhigg explore the precise techniques that distinguish a good communicator from a “supercommunicator:” traits such as active listening; looping for understanding to demonstrate genuine engagement; and identifying what someone is truly feeling, underneath what they actually say.Episode Reference Links:Charles Duhigg: WebsiteCharles Duhigg: BooksDuhigg's New Yorker articleThalia Wheatley's research study: The Repurposed Social Brain Nicholas Epley's research paper: Overly Shallow?: Miscalibrated Expectations Create a Barrier to Deeper ConversationAlison Wood Brooks' research paper: The Conversational Circumplex: Identifying, Prioritizing, and Pursuing Informational and Relational Motives in ConversationMichael Yeomans' research paper: It Helps to Ask: The Cumulative Benefits of Asking Follow-Up QuestionsSheila Heen's research project: Harvard Negotiation ProjectEp.92 - No Regrets: How to Take Risks: YouTube / Website Ep.82 - It's Not About You: Why Effective Communicators Put Others First: YouTube / Website Ep.103 - Simple is a Superpower: How to Communicate Any Idea to an Audience: YouTube / WebsiteConnect:Email Questions & Feedback >>> thinkfast@stanford.eduEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn Page, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInStanford GSB >>> LinkedIn & TwitterChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionHost Matt Abrahams introduces guest Charles Duhigg and his new book Super Communicators.(00:01:26) Transition from Habits to CommunicationDuhigg shares how personal experiences and a desire to understand human interactions motivated him to explore communication.(00:02:51) The Neuroscience of Connection The neuroscience behind successful communication and the role of neural entrainment in establishing connection and understanding.(00:04:21) Storytelling as a Powerful Communication ToolThe importance of storytelling in communication and how stories foster empathy and engagement.(00:06:16) Identifying and Aligning Conversation Types Three types of conversations (practical, emotional, social) and the necessity of aligning conversation types for effective communication.(00:08:07) Practices of Super Communicators Insights into the habits of super communicators, including their approach to recognizing conversation types and the importance of deep listening.(00:15:02) Navigating Conflict Through Effective Communication Managing conflictual conversations with a focus on listening, understanding, and managing control dynamics.(00:20:50) Challenges of Online Communication Challenges and strategies for communicating in online and virtual settings.(00:25:04) The Craft and Impact of StorytellingApproaches to storytelling and its significance in making complex ideas memorable and engaging.(00:29:06) Developing New Communication Habits New communication habits developed from Duhigg's research and their impact on personal and professional interactions.(00:31:02) The Final Three QuestionsCharles Duhigg discusses the importance of deep questions, the communicator he most admires, and his recipe for successful communication.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Você é daqueles que pede desculpa o tempo todo? Livros especializados em comportamento humano consideram que esta atitude é um erro. Será? Há livros e artigos que tratam do tema com os mais diferentes títulos. Considerando que pedir desculpas é uma humilhação ou uma forma desnecessária e prejudicial a imagem pessoal. Os que associam o pedido de desculpa ao fracasso, afirmam que pedir desculpas demonstram submissão. Os fortes e poderosos raramente pedem desculpa. Porém um estudo da Havard Business School vai contra esta lógica e demonstra que o pedido de desculpas gera empatia. Pessoas são capazes de ceder a um pedido ou serem mais empáticas e influenciadas por quem pede desculpas. Feita por Alison Wood Brooks, o experimento foi feito com pessoas que estavam em uma estação do metrô e foram abordadas por uma pessoa que pediu o celular emprestado. 91% dos que foram abordados se negaram a emprestar. Porém, quando o pedido de emprestar foi antecedido por um pedido de desculpas, as coisas mudaram, metade cedeu e emprestou o aparelho. Claro que o levantamento vai além disso. Mas é uma demonstração de que pedir desculpas gera empatia. O levantamento também mostra que as pessoas que pedem desculpas são consideradas menos arrogantes e preocupadas com os semelhantes. Aqueles que assumem seus erros demonstram potencial de mudança, resiliência e respeito pelo próximo. Se for uma prática automática, quase um tique-nervoso, um hábito corriqueiro e associado as mais diferentes situações, tende a ser banalizado. E o que é banalizado não é valorizado. A velha história de que se dá valor a escassez possivelmente funcione aqui. Ninguém deve pedir desculpas porque cuida de sim, porque fala a verdade ou porque tem sucesso na vida. Não somos obrigados a pedir desculpa pela existência. Somos sim, responsáveis pelos nossos atos, e quando ele fere alguém, prejudica outra pessoa, colabora com algo que fere os outros, o pedido de desculpa vale. Porém, sinceramente, prefiro o defeito de quem sempre pede desculpas do que a arrogância daquele que considera que não deve nada a ninguém e de que os outros que suportem a sua presença. Mas tem momentos em que o pedido de desculpas excede? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gilson-aguiar/message

If you read nothing else on public speaking and presenting, read these 10 articles. We've combed through hundreds of Harvard Business Review articles and selected the most important ones to help you find your voice, persuade your listeners, and connect with audiences of any size. This book will inspire you to: Win hearts and minds--and approval for your ideas Conquer your nerves and speak with confidence Focus your message so that people really listen Establish trust with your audience by being your authentic self Use data and visuals to persuade more effectively Master the art of storytellingThis collection of articles includes "How to Give a Killer Presentation," by Chris Anderson; "How to Become an Authentic Speaker," by Nick Morgan; "Storytelling That Moves People: A Conversation with Screenwriting Coach Robert McKee," by Bronwyn Fryer; "Connect, Then Lead," by Amy J.C. Cuddy, Matthew Kohut, and John Neffinger; "The Necessary Art of Persuasion," by Jay A. Conger; "The Science of Pep Talks," by Daniel McGinn; "Get the Boss to Buy In," by Susan J. Ashford and James R. Detert; "The Organizational Apology," by Maurice E. Schweitzer, Alison Wood Brooks, and Adam D. Galinsky; "What's Your Story?” by Herminia Ibarra and Kent Lineback; "Visualizations That Really Work," by Scott Berinato; and "Structure Your Presentation Like a Story," by Nancy Duarte.HBR's 10 Must Reads paperback series is the definitive collection of books for new and experienced leaders alike. Leaders looking for the inspiration that big ideas provide, both to accelerate their own growth and that of their companies, should look no further. HBR's 10 Must Reads series focuses on the core topics that every ambitious manager needs to know: leadership, strategy, change, managing people, and managing yourself. Harvard Business Review has sorted through hundreds of articles and selected only the most essential reading on each topic. Each title includes timeless advice that will be relevant regardless of an ever‐changing business environment.

As a communication expert, Alison Wood Brooks spends a lot of time talking about talking. But, as she says, listening is just as important.“My course is called TALK,” says Wood Brooks, who is the O'Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration and Hellman Faculty Fellow at Harvard Business School. “The great irony is that it should really be called LISTEN. It's hard to be a good listener yet so very important.”In the latest episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wood Brooks covers conversation strategies for active listening, turning anxiety into excitement, and knowing when it's time to change the subject.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Nadat Jeanne een aantal keer hoorde “doe alsof je enthousiast bent” terwijl ze zenuwachtig was, dook ze in de vakliteratuur. In deze podcast hoor je alles over het verkeerde advies dat we massaal geven als iemand zenuwachtig is en wat wel slim is om te doen. Wetenschappelijk onderbouwd met onderzoek van Alison Wood Brooks.Wil je meepraten, laat een voice berichtje achter: https://www.speakpipe.com/brainbakery

Learning is the most important skill. Great learners are agile, resilient, and adaptable. Great learners can acquire new skills when new demands arise. In times of change, learners will thrive.The best news: learning is a skill – one that anyone can get better at.This book will provide the tools and science to help you do just that.Learner Lab WebsiteTrevor RaganLearner the AudiobookEpisode Overview:- How fear impacts learning- How our default approach to dealing with fear and discomfort usually makes it worse- How to overcome fear & discomfortTopics: stress reappraisal, stress mindsetGuests: Jeremy Jamieson, Susan David, Marc Brackett, Seth GodinAlso mentioned: Alison Wood-Brooks, Alia Crum, Liz GilbertChapters & Release Schedule:Episode 1 – Oct 19Chapter 1 – RudyChapter 2 – Why LearningChapter 3 – TigersChapter 4 – Why We Zoo TigerEpisode 2 – Oct 26Chapter 5 - Mindsets & LearningChapter 6  - Mindsets & ActionChapter 7 - MisconceptionsChapter 8 - How to Build a Growth MindsetEpisode 3 – Nov 1Chapter 9 - Fear, Emotions & LearningChapter 10 - How to Overcome FearChapter 11  - Flaws of FearlessChapter 12 - Putting Emotions in the Backseat Episode 4 – Nov 16Chapter 13Chapter 14Chapter 15Episode 5 – Nov 23Chapter 16 Chapter 17Chapter 18 

Fotini Iconomopoulos shares the unconventional negotiation approaches to help you get what you want out of work and life. — YOU'LL LEARN — 1) The four magic words of negotiation 2) The surprising power of the pause in a negotiation 3) The script to use when you hear “no” Subscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep659 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT FOTINI — Fotini is a speaker, trainer, advisor, and author. Fotini helps people get what they want, by channeling her energy into her passion for the power of forward thinking. Today business executives partner with her to achieve their business goals, increase profitability and create a competitive advantage. She empowers their teams through her expertise in negotiation, communication and persuasion. To share her strengths with more business leaders, Fotini occasionally returns to the classroom as an instructor of MBA Negotiations at the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto. For the last 5 years, she's been invited to share her messages with audiences from all industries in keynote addresses across the globe. Fotini's first book from Harper Collins is Say Less, Get More: Unconventional Negotiation Techniques to Get What You Want.• Book: Say Less, Get More: Unconventional Negotiation Techniques to Get What You Want • Instagram: @fotiniicon • LinkedIn: Fotini Iconomopoulos • Website: FotiniIcon.com — RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Book: Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey • Book: Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini • Book: Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Dr. Amy Cuddy • Past episode: 311: Communication Secrets from FBI Kidnapping Negotiator Chris Voss • Study: “Get Excited: Reappraising Pre-Performance Anxiety as Excitement” by Alison Wood Brooks, Harvard Business School • Website: HomeAdvisor.com — THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Canva. Look more professional with Canva Pro. Free 45-day extended trial at canva.me/awesomeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

When trying to make your co-workers better, and to realize their areas, where they can grow and improve, we need to provide a constructive feedback. These tough conversations are even harder to have as multiple crises and their side effects wear on. To top it all off, a change in venue from in-person to remote removes the nuance that can help soften the blow of bad news. Taking a few steps to be more strategic about how you deliver constructive feedback, can help prevent negativity bias and a digital venue from distorting how your employees receive your feedback. Here are the five steps: 1. Start by asking questions.Begin your constructive feedback conversation by asking the other person about their perspective. You might ask, “What did you think of that report?” or even simpler, “How did that go?” You want to learn about their experience and what they think of their work. 2. Offer appreciation before you offer criticism. In their ongoing research, Leslie John, Alison Wood Brooks, and Jaewon Yoon at Harvard Business School have found through manipulating the order in which participants receive feedback that individuals are more receptive to constructive criticism if they're first told what specifically they did well. 3. State your good intentions. John has also found that explicitly stating your good intentions goes a long way toward improving how the other person hears bad news. Try, “I'm in your corner,” or “I know you're trying to improve your writing and I want to help you get there,” 4. Clarify and contrast. Helene Lollis, the CEO of Pathbuilders, a firm that develops woman leaders, finds that contrasting statements can bring clarity. After you've raised your concern or suggestion, follow it with, “What I mean is X. What I don't mean is Y.” 5. Have the other person state their key takeaways. Save time at the end of the conversation to ask, “What are your top three takeaways?” It may feel redundant, but you'll learn if they're taking a negative nosedive, and if so, you can reframe the message. What is your recipe for giving feedback? How do you cope when you receive feedback? Huston, T. (2021, January). Giving Critical Feedback Is Even Harder Remotely. Harvard Business Review.

President and Founder of YouSchool Scott Schimmel has spent his entire career in either ministry work, non-profits, or education, despite a relatively secular upbringing and an undergraduate degree in finance. Scott recalls graduating from college and planning to do something meaningful in the short term, only to find himself deeply immersed in ministry work ten years later. Around that ten year mark, Scott began to wonder how much of an impact he was truly making. After 400 interviews with former program participants, 397 of whom felt less happy and spiritually connected than in college, Scott realized he needed to change his approach.Mentioned ResourcesBooks and AuthorsThe Surprising Power of Questions by Alison Wood Brooks and Leslie K. JohnThe Old Man and The Sea by Ernest HemingwayA Farewell to Arms by Ernest HemingwayVarious Titles by Daniel Siegel Various Titles by Richard RoarDeath by Meeting by Patrick Lencioni The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick LencioniThe Ideal Team Player by Patrick LencioniVarious Other Titles by Patrick LinchioneOrganizationsThe YouSchool

The rapid heartbeat. The shaking hands. The flushed face. The symptoms of pre-performance jitters are common. For some people, nervousness before a big test or important presentation is normal and temporary. For others, it can be debilitating. Typical suggestions for managing nerves tend to involve deep breaths and calming thoughts. But what if there were a better way?In this episode of Choiceology with Katy Milkman, we look at the science behind the state of arousal commonly referred to as stage fright, including new research into better ways to manage unpleasant emotions.You’ll hear world-renowned concert pianist Steven Osborne describe the agonizing moment during an important performance when he began to experience memory lapses due to anxiety. As the fear of making mistakes increased, Steven began to worry that stage fright could cost him the career he loved. But through therapy and reflection, he managed to flip the script on his anxiety—and came to see it as a gift to be explored. All of the piano music in this segment comes from Steven Osborne’s recordings. You can hear his complete performances on Beethoven Piano Sonatas Opp 109, 110 & 111 and Prokofiev Piano Sonatas Nos 6, 7 & 8, available on Hyperion Records.Next, Alison Wood Brooks joins Katy to talk about her fascinating research into stage fright using video game karaoke to discover the most effective techniques for managing and even leveraging pre-performance nerves.Alison Wood Brooks is the O’Brien Associate Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School. For more on her research, you can read her paper Get Excited: Reappraising Pre-performance Anxiety as Excitement.Finally, Katy explores other ways to regulate unpleasant emotions. These techniques can help improve outcomes for negotiations, job interviews, and schoolwork.For more on behavioral science—including additional content from the expert interviews featured on Choiceology—you can sign up for Katy’s newsletter at katymilkman.com/newsletter. Choiceology is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/podcast.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important Disclosures:All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab.Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.(0820-0BTM)

Clint concludes his conversation with Alison Wood Brooks, the award-winning professor at Harvard Business School that created an experiential course designed to help students hone conversational skills. In Part Two, Alison talks about how having a good sense of humor can elevate your status.

This week on The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett, Clint talks to Alison Wood Brooks, the award-winning professor at Harvard Business School. In Part One, Alison shares why the psychology of conversation became a focal point in her career and how she developed a cutting-edge MBA course called "How to talk gooder in business and life.”

Summary Being a great leader isn’t about having all the answers - it’s often about asking the right questions. This week we look at ten great questions leaders ask.   Transcript Hello and welcome to episode 84 of the Leadership Today podcast where each week we tackle one of today’s biggest leadership challenges. This week we look at ten great questions leaders ask. One of the most significant societal and workplace shifts over the past two decades has been from answers to questions. Like many of you, I grew up before the internet. If I had a question about something, there was only a few options of where I could turn for answers. There was the school library which had, amongst other books, a complete set of Encyclopaedia Britannica. At home we had the more budget version - the World Book Encyclopaedia. In order to keep the encyclopaedias up to date, the publishers would send out a 'Year Book' update each year. That included little tabs that you could put in the relevant spots in the original encyclopaedia to point out that the information was now out of date, and which year book to refer to instead.  Answers were difficult to find and expensive to access. Even simple things like finding out movie session times involved buying the newspaper or a phone call to the cinema. The relative cost of answers meant that you were very careful in the questions you asked, and relatively trusting in the material presented. The internet changed everything. Firing up Netscape Navigator allowed information and answers from all over the world to suddenly be at our finger tips...if only we could find them.  Services like Google helped to categorise content and make it searchable. Over the next few years answers suddenly became cheap. Now you don’t need to go to the library or buy the book, because chances are someone else has written the same content up online.  If you want to know the history of France, how birds fly or how to fix your washing machine, the internet is your one stop shop for information. Answers have become prevalent and cheap. It’s now the trustworthiness and quality of answers that varies. Questions are the valuable commodity now. Perhaps they always have been, but even more so in this landslide of opinion and content. As leaders our role is less about providing answers, and more about helping people to ask the right questions. Great questions help people to discern between competing opinions in order to craft a way forward. As research has highlighted, questions build both liking and learning - they help to build connections and trust. Yet many of our educational institutions and workplaces still focus on rote learning and parroting back facts.  So what are some great questions to ask? A quick search on Google revealed “350 Good Questions to Ask - The only list you'll need” followed by the next entry “253 Good Questions to Ask - The only list you'll need.” As tempting as it is to just copy and paste those posts in, instead here are 10 questions I have fond helpful that provoke, challenge and extend our thinking: What are our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats? There’s a reason why a SWOT analysis is still beneficial. It forces us to look outside at the upside and downside possibilities, while also considering our own capabilities.  What does success look like? People work together more effectively when they’re clear about the end state they’re working towards. What’s the problem we’re trying to solve? Sometimes we can be busy trying to solve something when we’re actually not clear about the problem. As a result we can end up working towards solving the wrong problem. Work with people to define a problem statement - episode 33 has more information on how to structure that. Who else is involved or impacted? It’s easy for us to overlook the human element of situations, so always make an effort to consider who else should be involved. What else could we try? We often stop at the first proposed solution but that’s rarely the best way forward. Instead, make sure you bring out as many options as possible. How do you feel about this? We can underestimate the emotional element. Feelings matter and they impact our ability to make decisions.  What’s getting in our way? Or What is likely to get in the way? It’s important to anticipate obstacles so we can plan options to push through or avoid them. What progress have we made? Often we don’t spend enough time reflecting on the progress we have made. Taking time to reflect can help encourage us to keep going. What support is available? We often underestimate the amount of support available to us. It’s important to consider the people and resources around that can be of assistance. What will we do next? Help your people to move beyond conversation to action. I often encourage people to think about what they can do in the next 24 to 48 hours. There will always be places on leadership teams for those who can ask the right questions. It turns out that a great question is as much about innovation as it is about information - it takes the conversation forward in a new direction. As leaders we need to focus less energy trying to have all the answers, and spend more time getting the questions right. Well I hope that was helpful. I’ve brought together a range of our on demand resources into one place. This includes recordings of webinars on a range of leadership topics, and our Boost Your Assertiveness course. Each month I’ll add another webinar, and there will be an additional video course added each quarter. Just go to the leadership.today website and click on the on demand link to take a free 7 day trial. Have a great week.   Reference The Surprising Power of Questions by Alison Wood Brooks and Leslie K. John Harvard Business Review, May–June 2018 Issue https://hbr.org/2018/05/the-surprising-power-of-questions  

Hacer negocios implica comunicarse constantemente. Para poder hacerlo exitosamente necesitamos no solamente saber hacer preguntas y responderlas. También hay que saber responder las respuestas que nos dan. A veces eso no es tan fácil como parece.Libro “How to win friends & influence people”, por Dale Carnegie(https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034)Artículo “The surprising power of questions”, por Alison Wood Brooks y Leslie K. John(https://hbr.org/2018/05/the-surprising-power-of-questions)

Want to come across as more likeable? Social science has an answer for you, and it's simpler than you might think: ask more questions. This week, Dan and Akin discuss a study that finds we humans underestimate the value of asking questions. - Research Paper: 'It doesn’t hurt to ask: Question-asking increases liking.' by Huang, Karen, Michael Yeomans, Alison Wood Brooks, Julia Minson, and Francesca Gino

Leslie K. John and Alison Wood Brooks, professors at Harvard Business School, say people in business can be more successful by asking more and better questions. They talk through what makes for a great question, whether you’re looking to get information or get someone to like you. They’re the coauthors of the article, “The Surprising Power of Questions,” in the May–June 2018 issue of Harvard Business Review.

What should you do when you become the boss? HBR's new advice podcast Dear HBR: has the answers. In this bonus episode, Dear HBR: co-hosts Alison Beard and Dan McGinn answer your questions with the help of Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks, an expert on behavioral insights. They talk through what to do when your direct reports are older than you, how to be a likeable leader, and what to say if you're not ready to be in charge.

What should you do when you become the boss? Co-hosts Alison Beard and Dan McGinn answer your questions with the help of Harvard Business School professor Alison Wood Brooks, an expert on behavioral insights. They talk through what to do when your direct reports are older than you, how to be a likeable leader, and what to say if you’re not ready to be in charge.

It all begins slowly. Heart beating faster, mouth drying up. Sweat starting to pour. Then next thing you know, you got stress bringing you down. It's a part of life and it's actually something we can control. Rather, people view it as something to bring people down. That Cheesy ‘Keep Calm and Carry On' design everywhere says how to deal with stress, but is it applicable? Might as well be shutting down and stop doing everything. Stress is complex because it affects so many areas and at different times. Yet so common situations that we've experienced since elementary school. Talking to your boss, performing something live, taking an exam all leads to stress that is called pre-performance stress. That's what stops us from being productive. Is it possible to look at stress as an actual advantage for your life? Taking those negative thoughts of anxiety and insecurity into excitement and focused motivation? Sounds too good to be true, but I'm going to show it's actually more attainable than you might think. Now scientifically, when we are stressed, our brains release a chemical called noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is both a good and a bad chemical to have. It increases arousal and alertness, but also increases anxiety and feeling tired. We actually need a healthy amount of that chemical or we're not working at our best. Ian Roberston, a cognitive neuroscientist at Trinity College Dublin said: There's a sweet spot of stress where you are right in the middle of what you need. Think of it has a Goldilocks zone of noradrenaline that it like a brain tuner. Noradrenaline essentially allows us to communicate with all our neural connections more smoothly. So that means if we can control and deal with our stress it actually be a boost in brain power. By increasing creativity and happiness, so we feel less of anxiety and depression. *So question is how do I deal with stressful situations to make this happen?* It all begins by rethinking the situation. Most of the symptoms I said previously, the heart racing, dry mouth, etc. are we get when we feel excitement. I said in previous episode about how self assurance talk can actually backfire. It's the same way. We feel anxiety before an important event or talking to someone of importance. This causes draining memory capacity, lower confidence, and overall harm in performance. Knowing this actually makes it worse. Anticipation of anxiety is used from the phrase ‘Calm down' as in Keep Calm and Carry On. Alison Wood Brooks, an assistant professor at Harvard Business School actually found out through studies that people who is able to not think ‘calm down' but rather viewed as a part of excitement. Stress and excitement both have arousal and a low sense of control. *Stress should be a challenge, not a burden.* Personal development is key focus in this mindset. As said by Stanford psychologist Carol Dweck which essentially means those who believe they can improve actually do. Feeling like you can't change is what's stopping negative thoughts and actions that prevent you from doing your best. Granted a possibility in failure can be seen as a negative, but also a chance to learn. This is how you turn stress into excitement and where the middle ground in actually improving performance. Comedians and other performers actually worry if they don't feel some level of anxiety before performance. Tiger Woods has spoken outwardly that he know's he's going to have a bad play if he doesn't feel it before he swings. This is how it ultimately becomes a performance enhancer. *Your mind is like a track – build it right* We've all know that negative thoughts of stress and anxiety go with us throughout our lives. It'll never fully be gone. Every single one of these thoughts are connections of neutral and chemical flows through our brain. The more the thought, the stronger the feeling. This is like a ski track in snow as said by Neuroscientist Alex Korb. Like swing, the more you go down the path, the easier it gets. Just like a mindset, the more you experience fear, anxiety, and self-doubt, the easier it gets going down that path. Now this can be resolved by what psychologists call ‘cognitive reappraisal'. This cognitive reappraisal is not ignoring negative thoughts, because let's face, is too difficult to completely remove. It's also not about turning these negatives into false positives such ‘People will love me'. It's all about looking at the bigger picture and using only realistic thoughts. Hooria Jazaieri, a licensed family therapist said The Wall Street Journal “I tell clients to think like a scientist. You are using your observations and descriptions about yourself non-judgmentally, observing and describing facts.” So instead of allowing a deep rabbit hole of negative thought. Take a moment to know what *is* happening and immediately stop. My suggestion is to write these thoughts down and then identify what triggers them. Did your boss sent you an email saying he needs to speak with me and instantly thought something terrible was going to happen? Write these things down and then toss them in a recycling bin. Be a scientist and challenge these thoughts like a hypothesis. Did you do not perform? Will you get fired because of it? Now when you think about these things, you're no longer thinking rationally. Always look for the evidence. What have you done well? Did you get a raise recently? Write those self doubting thoughts down. I've always said writing down increases memory and helps keep confidence in yourself. Keep on that ski course. What happens if it doesn't work? Then go as hard as you can. Do you think your work is the worst? Then tell yourself that. Tell yourself that there's never been a worse worker than you. There's no reason why anyone should hire you. Why? Because laughter said by Steve Orma, a clinical psychologist and author of Stop Worrying and Go To Sleep. Will always make you feel better. Which removes any negative thoughts. So you want to gain muscle? As it turns out it's not going to happen in one gym session. Your brain is just like that. It's a continuation of understanding and being proactive in your anxiety that can be used productivity. These aren't scary as they really are, we just make them worse than they really are. It's practice – just like all skills and it all begins with you and your thoughts.

The research shows we shouldn't be afraid to ask for help. Francesca Gino and Alison Wood Brooks, both of Harvard Business School, explain.

Alison Wood Brooks, assistant professor at Harvard Business School, explains how feelings influence deal making.