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Social anxiety can make you want to cancel plans, avoid difficult conversations, stay quiet in meetings, or say no to opportunities you actually want. In this episode of the Decide Your Legacy Podcast, Adam shares a simple three step strategy for facing social anxiety instead of letting it control your decisions.It starts with your mindset. What are you focusing on when you walk into a situation? Everything that could go wrong, or the opportunities that could come from showing up? Next, create a plan. Preparation can dramatically change how you approach an uncomfortable conversation, meeting, event, presentation, date, or new experience. Finally, get in the arena and engage. Real change happens when you stop avoiding the situation and give yourself the opportunity to gather new evidence about what you're actually capable of.Adam shares his own experiences with anxiety, practical ways to prepare for social situations, the importance of curiosity, breathing, flexibility, and why even rejection can become an opportunity to build resilience.If social anxiety has been keeping you from relationships, opportunities, conversations, or experiences you know you should pursue, start with these three steps.Mindset. Plan. Engage.Pick one situation you've been avoiding and give the process a try. You decide your legacy. Nobody else.RSVP to the Upcoming Self Confidence Workshop HERE_____________________________TAKE THE NEXT STEP!Conversation starters are helpful, but the deeper issue is often courage. If you want to become more confident, less anxious, and more willing to take action in the conversations that matter most, go through Shatterproof Yourself Lite. In 7 small steps, you'll learn how to face fear, build confidence, and move toward the kind of relationships and legacy you actually want._____________________________Subscribe for weekly personal growth breakdowns, and comment below on which life challenge you want us to cover next.
“We are now competing in conversation with someone's feed.”Connecting with others requires more than knowing what to say. The signals we send through our body language, the questions we ask, and even where we position ourselves can shape how others experience a conversation. In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, behavioral researcher and author of Cues and Captivate, Vanessa Van Edwards joins Matt Abrahams to explore the subtle cues that make communication more engaging. She shares strategies for navigating networking events, sparking more meaningful conversations, and signaling the warmth and competence that shape charisma and connection.Takeaways:Connection starts before you speak. Visible palms, eye contact, positioning, and other nonverbal cues can signal warmth and openness, shaping how others experience an interaction from the start.Better conversations spark curiosity. Moving beyond routine small talk with engaging questions, surprising stories, and genuine enthusiasm can make interactions more memorable and meaningful.Activity:Create a conversational feed. Start a note on your phone and collect three things from your week—a surprising moment, an interesting observation, or a small win. Bring one into your next networking event or meeting as “conversational confetti” instead of defaulting to routine small talk.Printable Expanded Takeaways & ActivitiesEpisode Reference Links:Vanessa Van EdwardsVanessa's Books: Cues / CaptivateEp.301 Trust at First Sight: Create More Meaningful 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:37) - Why Your Hands Matter (02:20) - Networking With Confidence (05:34) - Make Small Talk More Engaging (09:03) - The Science of Charisma (13:11) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
How much does misalignment really cost? Most people think about missed goals or lost revenue. Anthony "AJ" Vaughan challenges you to look deeper and consider the human cost when leaders fail to communicate, listen, and create environments where people feel safe speaking up. Through stories from his own successes and painful failures, AJ explains why alignment begins long before strategy meetings. You'll discover how honest communication, thoughtful onboarding, rewarding courage, and putting employees first can transform the way people work together. By the end of this episode, you'll likely find yourself looking differently at your own team—and asking where better communication could prevent tomorrow's biggest problems. AJ is a partnerships and growth leader, an HR tech strategist, and founder of The E1B2 Collective, built on the belief that when organizations put employees first, stronger business outcomes follow. He works across three areas—leadership behavior, employee experience, and business performance— to help companies close the gap between what they say matters and how their teams actually operate. AJ is also the host of The Business of Alignment podcast, where he has led more than 1,000 conversations with HR and business leaders around trust, clarity, alignment, and what it really takes to build healthy organizations. You'll discoverWhy misalignment hurts people before profits How one ignored conversation changed AJ's career What great onboarding really accomplishes Why rewarding courage changes culture How honest communication prevents costly mistakesConnect with Anthony (AJ) Vaughan on Social MediaLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-vaughan-8ba8a8172/ Website The E1B2 Collective https://thee1b2collective.com/ Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
“We're all salespeople at the end of the day.”Whether you're pitching a movie, an idea, or yourself, persuasion is about more than the story you're telling—it's also about the story your audience sees for themselves. For Deadpool and Zombieland screenwriter Rhett Reese, that means keeping communication concise, compelling, and centered on what your audience needs. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Reese joins Matt Abrahams to share lessons from screenwriting that apply far beyond Hollywood. From cutting unnecessary words to crafting pitches that make your audience the protagonist, he explores how storytelling, collaboration, and clarity can make any message more persuasive.Takeaways:Every pitch tells two stories. You're selling the idea itself, but you're also showing your audience how saying yes can solve their problem, reduce their risk, and lead to their success.Brevity makes your message stronger. Cutting unnecessary words and choosing them carefully helps your ideas land with greater clarity, impact, and memorability.Activity:Tell the second story. Take a pitch you're currently working on and write one sentence describing the idea you're selling. Then write a second sentence from your audience's perspective: “If I say yes, what becomes possible for me?” Use that second story to reshape your pitch around their success, not just your idea.Printable Expanded Takeaways & ActivitiesEpisode Reference Links:Rhett ReeseEp.167 Hollywood Lessons For Successful Communication 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:18) - Make Every Word Count (03:09) - How to Pitch an Idea (07:38) - Creatively Collaborating (10:35) - Creating Space for Feedback (12:49) - AI & the Future of Hollywood (16:44) - The Final Three Questions (23:15) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
What kind of experience do other people have when they work with you? It's a simple question—and one that can transform the way you lead. In this conversation, executive coach and bestselling author Brenda Bence shares lessons from coaching CEOs around the world, along with pivotal moments from her own leadership journey. Through unforgettable stories and practical examples, she explains why great leaders build people before they build businesses, why curiosity and listening matter more than having all the answers, and why the best leaders continually examine the impact they have on others. Whether you lead an organization, a team, or simply want to become a better colleague, Brenda offers wisdom that will challenge you to think differently about the kind of leader you're becoming. Brenda Bence is recognized by Thinkers50 as a Coaching Legend and is ranked by Global Gurus as one of the world's top three executive coaches. She is a Hall of Fame professional speaker and the award-winning author of 12 books, including her latest, Would YOU Want to Work for YOU™? Known as the "Billion Dollar Coach," Brenda has coached dozens of C-Suite executives from many of the world's largest and most recognized corporations. Her passion lies at the intersection of leadership and branding, helping leaders build both the organizations they lead and the individual leadership brands they leave behind. Through Brenda's coaching, global keynote speeches, and award-winning books, she has inspired and developed hundreds of thousands of leaders around the world. You'll DiscoverWhy growing people must be part of every business strategy. The mindset shift every leader must make to move from expert to leader. How understanding what motivates each employee dramatically improves engagement and retention. Why middle managers determine whether organizational change succeeds or fails. How listening and curiosity create stronger leaders than certainty and control.Connect with Brenda Bence LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendabenceWebsite Brenda Bence https://www.BrendaBence.com BooksWould YOU Want to Work for YOU? https://www.amazon.com/Would-YOU-Want-Work-Performance/dp/B0H5RDP3N1Leading YOU https://www.amazon.com/Leading-YOU-self-leadership-executive-success/dp/1942718012 Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
Join in the conversation!Enjoy the clip of this episode. Welcome back to another episode of the Hella Chisme Podcast! The show where culture, community, and real conversation live.This is a space where we celebrate and uplift the voices and stories that don't get told enough, and have honest conversations about the things that actually matter.Also… maybe sometimes the things that don't. And depending on the day? I might be getting into some foolishness. And in those moments, you are more than welcome to come check me on it in the comments.Respectfully!Whatever it is we're doing over here, we show up real. And I love that y'all continue to come back each time to listen, laugh, chime in, and be part of this community.This week, we are reaching into the Hella Chisme vault.Why do some friendships last decades while others fade without explanation?Dr. Marcus C. Shepard, tenured professor of communication and host of Off the Data Provided, breaks down his Friendship Formula: investment, emotional closeness, trust, and support. If any one of those is missing, the relationship starts to crumble.We also get into dating apps and why people stay stuck on them, whether texting and DMs count as real communication (spoiler: they do), and why great communicators actually fight MORE they just know how to resolve it.
"The first negotiation is actually a negotiation I have with myself about my own story."Before you can have hard conversations with others, you need to have an honest conversation with yourself. That's the counterintuitive advice from Sheila Heen, a Harvard Law School lecturer and co-author of Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most, who says our own internal narratives often derail our attempts at negotiation and conflict resolution. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Heen joins Matt Abrahams to explore effective communication in high-stakes situations. From giving and receiving feedback with her “ACE” framework (Appreciation, Coaching, and Evaluation) to recognizing the "degrees of difficulty" in disagreements, she offers practical strategies for having productive conversations even when emotions run high.Key Takeaways:Difficult conversations start with understanding yourself. Before trying to change someone else's mind, examine your own assumptions, emotions, and goals to create space for a more productive dialogue.Curiosity turns conflict into collaboration. Replacing blame with genuine questions and focusing on understanding rather than convincing helps build trust, reduce defensiveness, and move conversations forward.Activity:Decode feedback. The next time someone asks for feedback, don't answer immediately. Implement the ACE framework. First ask: "Are you looking for appreciation, coaching, or evaluation?" Then tailor your response to match what they actually needEpisode Reference Links:Sheila HeenSheila's Book: Difficult ConversationsEp. 204 Tough Talks: Turn Tension Into Trust 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:40) - Facing Difficult Conversations (03:53) - The Feelings Beneath Conflict (07:02) - The Stories We Tell Ourselves (08:19) - Start with the Third Story (09:59) - The Power of Questions (12:36) - Breaking an Impasse (16:15) - The Language of Curiosity (17:12) - Feedback That Lands (20:18) - Asking for Better Feedback (22:38) - Looking Beneath the Surface (24:15) - The Final Three Questions (31:30) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
To learn more about the Let's Grow Leaders Performance Management training, click here.Are you wasting time trying to address the wrong performance problem?When someone on your team misses deadlines, makes mistakes, or stops following through, it's easy to assume they don't care or to jump straight into feedback, training, or closer oversight. But if you treat the wrong cause, you waste time, add to everyone's overwhelm, and leave the real issue unresolved. In this episode, you'll learn a practical, human-centered leadership framework for diagnosing poor performance accurately, strengthening your communication skills, and helping your team regain sustainable productivity without avoiding accountability.After listening, you'll be equipped to:• Use four diagnostic questions centered on connection, clarity, curiosity, and commitment to uncover what is really affecting an employee's performance.• Match your response to the actual problem, whether the person needs clearer expectations, stronger skills or confidence, better priorities and resources, a repaired process, or direct accountability.• Lead fairer, more effective performance conversations that build trust, support problem solving, and get people back on track faster.Play the episode now to learn the four-question performance loop that can save you from solving the wrong problem and help your team deliver stronger, more sustainable results.Be sure to pay attention to:03:38 – Separate what you observe from what you assume.Turn vague judgments such as “bad attitude” into specific, observable behaviors you can address fairly. You'll make feedback clearer and open the door to a productive conversation.06:59 – Make expectations unmistakably clear.Discover why many performance problems begin with expectations that seemed obvious to you but were never clear to the employee. You'll see how shared clarity creates a stronger foundation for accountability.09:59 – Find what is really blocking performance.Explore how capability, confidence, capacity, and workplace systems can affect follow-through. Asking the right questions helps you solve the actual problem instead of defaulting to training or closer oversight.15:42 – Know when direct accountability is necessary.Learn how to respond when someone has the clarity, skills, resources, and support to succeed but still does not follow through. You'll hear how to establish a specific commitment and a clear follow-up plan.Leadership Without Using Your Soul podcast offers insightful discussions on leadership and management, focusing on essential communication skills, productivity, teamwork, delegation, and feedback to help leaders navigate various leadership styles, management styles, conflict resolution, time management, and active listening while addressing challenges like overwhelm, burnout, work-life balance, and problem-solving in both online and in-person teams, all aimed at cultivating human-centered leadership qualities that promote growth and success.
Why do the same arguments keep happening? Why do certain people trigger us so deeply? And what if the biggest obstacle in our relationships isn't the other person... but the unconscious patterns we've carried for years? In this episode of The Breaking Free Podcast, I sit down with Matt Castle, neurotransformational therapy practitioner and NLP life coach, for a powerful conversation on relationships, emotional healing, and personal transformation. Matt explains how emotional triggers are often unresolved patterns rather than problems created by other people. Together, we explore how changing the meaning we assign to our emotions can completely transform the way we experience conflict, connection, and love. The conversation also dives into fear, judgement, nervous system regulation, personal values, and the importance of becoming someone who responds rather than reacts. Matt also shares his own personal journey, including navigating ongoing court proceedings, parenting challenges, and how those experiences shaped his mission to support men going through separation and major life transitions. Whether you're single, dating, married, separated, or simply wanting healthier relationships, this episode offers practical insights to help you understand yourself and others on a much deeper level. In this episode: Why emotional triggers aren't your enemy The hidden patterns sabotaging relationships Responding instead of reacting How NLP can reshape emotional responses Fear, judgement and unconscious programming Aligning your values for stronger relationships Men's mental health after separation Parenting, resilience and personal growth Building emotional intelligence Creating healthier, more conscious relationships If you've ever wondered why the same relationship challenges keep showing up, this conversation may help you see them through a completely different lens. Thank you for listening and watching wherever in the world you are. Jump on BonCharge and grab yourself some protection from wifi, 5G, blue/red light and so much more… At the Checkout Use Code “Nath22” to receive 15% off. RESOURCES: Part I: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izgJniAABDY Part I Audio: https://open.spotify.com/episode/60Hmu3Wwy4HbLCzCUUh49p?si=f5b90eeaa0984719 Connect With Matt Castle: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.castle.397 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matt.castle.397/ Website: https://emotionalrestorationproject.com Skool: https://www.skool.com/emotional-restoration-project-1981/about Retreat: https://emotionalrestorationproject.com/retreats Connect With Me (Nathan Francis Coach/Mentor) Substack: https://substack.com/@nathanfrancis Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OSS.Health.Mind Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nath.francis69 Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nathanfrancis222?_t=8iKxXw8R2ee&_r=1 Telegram: https://t.me/nathf94  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanfrancis__/ Email me anytime: nathanselfsabotage@gmail.com The Breaking Free Podcast Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1fHxmfbFZwyZPIcOrjw3Hf?si=q42PtUR4Qeu8SvUuWDMrpw Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/breaking-free-podcast/id1657951151 Youtube: https://youtube.com/@nathanfrancis__?si=df69YA7zK-CUeG8-
How To SERIOUSLY Improve Your Communication Skills
Send us Fan MailWhat was it like to build a career in radio when every conversation had the power to bring people together?This week on Here's What We Know, we welcome veteran broadcaster George Lindsey, whose remarkable career began at just 15 years old behind a radio microphone. George shares unforgettable stories from decades in broadcasting, remembers the legendary entertainers he met, and reflects on how radio created friendships that lasted a lifetime. He also opens up about his passion for charity auctions, explaining why helping communities has become one of the most rewarding chapters of his career. Join us as we explore the lasting value of curiosity, meaningful conversations, and the simple joy of connecting with people. Listen now.In This Episode:How George Lindsey got his start in radio as a teenagerWhat made the golden age of radio so memorableStories about legendary musicians, entertainers, and life behind the microphoneWhy building genuine relationships mattered more than ratingsHow charity auctions became an unexpected callingLessons about service, gratitude, and staying curious throughout lifeWhy authentic conversations continue to matter in every generationThis episode is sponsored by: Dignity Memorial Reed Animal Hospital Bio:George Lindsey spent decades behind the microphone as an award-winning radio personality, delivering ratings, results, and memorable moments. Four years ago, after graduating from auction school and earning his auctioneer's license, he traded the studio for the stage, where he now energizes audiences as a professional emcee and benefit auctioneer.Alongside his wife, George also leads unforgettable small-group journeys across Europe's most iconic destinations, helping empty nesters, solo travelers, and reluctant adventurers experience the trip of a lifetime.Whether he's driving excitement at a fundraising auction, guiding travelers through Europe, or sharing stories that connect people, George's passion is creating experiences that matter.Website: https://www.lindsey-adventures.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-lindsey-auctioneer/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgelindseyofficial/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/george.lindsey/Tags: Golden Age of Radio, Radio History, Classic Radio, Broadcasting, Radio Personality, George Lindsey, Gary Scott Thomas, Here's What We Know Podcast, Storytelling, Great Storytelling, Human Connection, Meaningful Conversations, Life Lessons, Career in Radio, Behind the Microphone, Radio Industry, Radio Memories, Communication Skills, Media Careers, Podcast Interview, Broadcast Journalism, Entertainment Industry, Charity Auctions, Community Service, Building Relationships, Personal Growth, Inspiring Stories, Nostalgic Stories, Legendary Entertainers, Music Industry Stories, Radio Legends, Authentic Conversations, Podcast About Radio, History of Radio Broadcasting, Lessons from Broadcasting, Storytelling Podcast, Interview with George Lindsey, Best Radio StoriesConnect with Gary:Gary's WebsiteFollow Gary on InstagramGary's TiktokGary's FacebookWatch the episodes on YouTubeAdvertise on the PodcastThank you for listening. Let us know what you think about this episode. Leave us a review!
Today I'm joined by Scott McInnes, founder of Inspiring Change, a Dublin-based culture and internal communication consultancy. Scott helps senior leadership teams close the gap between the culture they have and the one they actually need to deliver their strategy. In this episode, we explore why communication is far more than simply sharing information. Scott explains how great leaders connect people to purpose, why clarity without emotion rarely inspires action, and how frontline managers play a critical role in translating organizational strategy into meaningful conversations. We also discuss hybrid work, employee engagement, storytelling, communication confidence, and why self-awareness may be one of the most important communication skills any leader can develop. Whether you lead a team, communicate change, or simply want your messages to create more impact, this conversation is full of practical insights you can apply immediately. Let's dive in. Additional Resources: ► Follow Communispond on LinkedIn for more communication skills tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/communispond ► Connect with Scott D'Amico on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdamico/ ► Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwmcinnes/ ► Learn more about Inspiring Change: https://www.inspiringchange.ie/comms ► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/ ► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com
This episode is about helping dads realize that how they communicate with their partner teaches their kids how love works.In this conversation, Jey Young and Raffi Bilek explore the complexities of communication in marriage, emphasizing the importance of understanding and validating each other's feelings. They discuss common conflicts couples face, the significance of listening, and the need to address deeper issues rather than just surface-level problems. The dialogue highlights strategies for effective communication, including the importance of empathy, picking battles wisely, and reconnecting after disagreements. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a guide for couples to improve their communication skills and strengthen their relationships.Most couples aren't fighting about the dishes, the money, or the sex.You can't fix a problem you don't understand.It's important to go in there and try to figure out the why behind reactions.You can wait until later to address conflicts.Everybody has a reason why they do things, and it's good to explore that.People just want to be validated in their feelings.You cannot convince your partner to see things your way.The end goal of communication is not necessarily the solution, but staying connected.Marriage is supposed to be work, and that's okay.Expect to make mistakes in fatherhood and keep trying.Chapters00:00 Understanding Conflict in Relationships02:42 The Importance of Communication04:55 Slowing Down to Understand09:16 The Deeper Issues Behind Arguments11:04 The Art of Listening and Validation18:04 Navigating Difficult Conversations23:30 Working Together as a Team30:07 Reconnecting After Conflict
"The dumbest thing you can be is a know-it-all."Curiosity isn't about having all the answers—it's about asking better questions. Journalist and podcast host Nayeema Raza believes the strongest communicators balance confidence with openness, using curiosity to better understand people, ideas, and the world around them. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Raza joins Matt Abrahams to explore how to make complex ideas accessible, ask questions that spark meaningful conversations, and communicate with both confidence and humility. From writing punchier questions to embracing uncertainty, she shares practical strategies for becoming a more thoughtful and engaging communicator.Key Takeaways:Confidence grows through curiosity. The strongest communicators stay open to new ideas, ask thoughtful questions, and leave room to learn rather than assuming they have all the answers.Simple questions create meaningful conversations. Clear, concise questions—and a focus on what matters most—help make complex ideas more accessible and engaging.Activity:Write better questions. Take an upcoming meeting, interview, or one-on-one and rewrite three of your questions so each is nine words or fewer. Focus on making them clear, direct, and curiosity-driven.Episode Reference Links:Nayeema RazaNayeema's Ted TalkSmart Girl, Dumb QuestionsConnect: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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:57) - Simplifying Complexity (02:11) - Better Questions (06:03) - Confidence vs. Certainty (07:24) - Interview Nerves (10:14) - Prepare to Improvise (11:02) - Going Independent (13:59) - Curiosity in the Digital Age (16:59) - Staying Relevant (21:01) - The Final Three Questions (25:57) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.
The Communicate & Connect Podcast for Military Relationships
So many couples come into my counseling office equipped with scripts, books, and communication tools they've learned over the years . They intellectually know what they should say when a disagreement arises . Yet, in the heat of the moment, those skills seem to completely vanish, leaving them trapped in the same painful argument once again . If you've ever wondered why you can't seem to use your communication skills when you need them most, please know that you are not broken and you are definitely not alone . The issue isn't a lack of skill—it's a lack of emotional safety . In this episode of the Communicate & Connect Podcast, Dr. Elizabeth Polinsky breaks down why our brain's internal threat detector shuts down high-level communication tools during conflict . She explores what true emotional safety looks like in a relationship, how military transitions can amplify conflict spirals, and why focusing on emotional safety first is the true gateway to lasting repair. >>> Read the show notes for this episode here. Are you having the same conversation over and over? Many couples assume they have a communication problem when they're actually stuck in a relationship pattern that keeps creating the same conflict. >>> Take the free Relationship Pattern Assessment to identify the pattern that may be keeping you disconnected and learn what to focus on next.
What if one of the most important leadership skills isn't speaking more clearly, making faster decisions, or solving problems more quickly—but simply being fully present?In this thoughtful conversation, psychologist and coach Dr. Pam Garcy shares practical ways to quiet the mental stories that pull us away from the people and moments that matter most. Drawing from her book The Present Coach, Pam explains why returning to the present is a practice, not a destination, and how slowing down allows us to respond with greater wisdom, calmness, and compassion. Together we explore what happens in our minds and bodies when we're under pressure, why our presence influences everyone around us, and how simple daily practices can help us become steadier leaders, partners, parents, and friends. Along the way, Pam shares moving personal stories and practical techniques you can begin using immediately—including one surprisingly simple exercise that may forever change the way you drink your morning coffee. Dr. Pam Garcy, PhD, is a licensed psychologist, coach, author, and teacher with over two decades of experience supporting individuals and professionals in meaningful personal change. Her work integrates psychological depth, presence-based practices, and practical tools for emotional regulation, self-leadership, and sustainable growth—an integration that forms the foundation of The Present Coach. You'll discoverWhy returning matters more than perfection Practical ways to regain calm under pressure How stories quietly shape your reactions Why your presence influences everyone around you Simple daily practices that build lasting awarenessConnect with Pam Garcy, PhD on Social MediaLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamela-d-garcy-ph-d-5507439/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DrPamGarcy/Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/drpamgarcyprosperityWebsite My Inner Guide https://www.myinnerguide.com/BooksThe Present Coach: Your Companion Guide to Traversing Life with Clientshttps://www.amazon.com/Present-Coach-Companion-Traversing-Clients/dp/1600252303 Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
Join in the conversation!Welcome back to another episode of the Hella Chisme Podcast! The show where culture, community, and real conversation live.This is a space where we celebrate and uplift the voices and stories that don't get told enough, and have honest conversations about the things that actually matter.Also… maybe sometimes the things that don't. And depending on the day? I might be getting into some foolishness. And in those moments, you are more than welcome to come check me on it in the comments.Respectfully!Whatever it is we're doing over here, we show up real. And I love that y'all continue to come back each time to listen, laugh, chime in, and be part of this community.This week, we are reaching into the Hella Chisme vault.Why do some friendships last decades while others fade without explanation?Dr. Marcus C. Shepard, tenured professor of communication and host of Off the Data Provided, breaks down his Friendship Formula: investment, emotional closeness, trust, and support. If any one of those is missing, the relationship starts to crumble.We also get into dating apps and why people stay stuck on them, whether texting and DMs count as real communication (spoiler: they do), and why great communicators actually fight MORE they just know how to resolve it.
"You want to make sure you have the energy at the end of your communication as well as at the beginning." Why do some people command a room without raising their voice? Being heard isn't about speaking louder—it's about using your voice with intention. Breath, posture, and preparation all play a role in helping your message reach the people who need to hear it. In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Matt Abrahams shares practical techniques for projecting your voice with confidence, building vocal stamina, and using microphones effectively. From breathing with more control to making the most of your physical presence, you'll learn simple strategies to ensure your message is heard when it matters mostKey Takeaways:Strong voices start with strong breathing. Your breath is the foundation of vocal projection, helping you speak with greater volume, clarity, and confidence without straining your voice.Preparation helps your voice go the distance. Building vocal stamina, improving your posture, and using microphones effectively ensures your message stays strong from your first word to your last.Activity:Build a vocal warm-up. Before your next presentation or important meeting, spend five minutes reading aloud while focusing on slow, deep breathing. Then identify one physical reminder—such as standing taller or relaxing your shoulders—to help support your voice before you begin.Episode Reference Links:Ep.262 Own the Room: How Voice, Breath, and Body Work Together 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:58) - Breathing for Better Projection (02:29) - Place Your Voice (04:05) - Building Vocal Stamina (05:41) - Using a Lavalier Mic (07:07) - Using a Handheld Mic (08:29) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.With LinkedIn Hiring Pro, you can hire with confidence, knowing you're getting the best talent for your needs. Get started by posting your job for free at linkedin.com/fast
What if the recruiting advice you've always followed is costing you placements instead of creating them? Host Kortney Harmon shares a standout session from the FDE+ Virtual Conference featuring Tricia Tamkin and Jason Thibeault of Moore eSSentials, who challenge conventional recruiting wisdom with practical, psychology-driven strategies that strengthen client and candidate relationships.From business development conversations to candidate negotiations, Tricia and Jason reveal why the most effective recruiters often do the opposite of what everyone else is taught. They explore how to build trust through honesty, rethink exclusivity and guarantees, navigate HR partnerships more effectively, and handle objections, counteroffers, and difficult conversations with confidence. Every strategy is designed to move beyond scripted recruiting and create authentic conversations that lead to stronger long-term results.Key Takeaways• Use pattern-interrupts to earn attention and build credibility • Build trust by leading with transparency instead of outdated recruiting tactics • Turn difficult business development conversations into opportunities for deeper engagement • Reframe guarantees, exclusivity, and counteroffers as competitive advantages • Apply psychology and authenticity to create stronger client and candidate relationshipsLearn how the best recruiters replace outdated scripts with conversations that build trust, strengthen relationships, and drive consistent revenue.________________Follow Tricia and Jason on LinkedIn: LinkedIn | Tricia, LinkedIn | JasonFollow Crelate on LinkedIn: CrelateWant to learn more about Crelate? Book a demo hereSubscribe to our newsletter: The Full Desk Experience
To learn more about the Let's Grow Leaders Performance Management training, click here.What if three leadership communication skills could eliminate 90% of your performance management conversations?When your team doesn't remember a critical message, leaves a meeting with different expectations, or agrees to deadlines without discussing competing priorities, productivity suffers. In this episode, you'll learn three practical ways to keep everyone focused, confirm that communication has actually happened, and uncover barriers that could prevent success.You'll learn how to:Use five-by-five communication to reinforce critical messages at least five times in five different ways.Check for understanding so you know the message received is the message you intended to send.Schedule the finish by discussing feasibility, resources, and competing priorities before making a calendar commitment.For more creative ways to reinforce important messages, explore these 101 remote team communication approaches.Press play now to learn three communication skills that can help your team stay focused, work more productively, and avoid unnecessary performance management conversations.Key Moments for Stronger Leadership Communication02:50 – Make your most important messages stick.Discover why one-time communication isn't enough when you need your team to internalize a critical message.08:35 – Stop mistaking silence for understanding.Learn how a quick check for understanding can reveal confusion and confirm that everyone knows what happens next.14:26 – Replace vague deadlines with clear commitments.Explore how scheduling the finish creates a conversation about feasibility, competing priorities, and available resources.19:09 – Eliminate performance problems before they begin.See how these three communication skills improve focus, increase efficiency, and reveal structural issues that could prevent successLeadership Without Using Your Soul podcast offers insightful discussions on leadership and management, focusing on essential communication skills, productivity, teamwork, delegation, and feedback to help leaders navigate various leadership styles, management styles, conflict resolution, time management, and active listening while addressing challenges like overwhelm, burnout, work-life balance, and problem-solving in both online and in-person teams, all aimed at cultivating human-centered leadership qualities that promote growth and success.
Send us Fan MailYou negotiated at least three times last week. You may not have called it negotiating. You called it asking.And in every one of those moments, your case was strong. But whether it sounded strong helped determine the answer you received.Here is the pattern that costs high-performing women more than almost anything else: the case is usually solid, but the delivery comes apart in two specific, predictable, and fixable ways—softening and overexplaining.In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton explains why a strong ask can still receive a soft no and what to do about it in the moment. Following one leader's story from soft no's to a clean, confident ask, Kele lays out a simple three-part structure for making requests well. She also draws an important distinction between being clear and being blunt—the difference that allows you to communicate directly without creating a reputation you did not want.What You Will LearnWhy the strength of your case is not the only factor that determines whether you get a yes.The two delivery habits that quietly weaken even a well-prepared request: softening and overexplaining.A three-part structure for making a request that lands as a clear position rather than a hope.Why the silence after your ask is one of the most powerful—and difficult—parts of the conversation.The difference between softening your position and keeping warmth in your delivery.How to stay in the conversation after an initial no without retreating into overexplaining.The reframe that can change how you approach compensation conversations.Who This Is ForThis episode is for high-performing women in middle and senior management who prepare thoroughly, make a strong case, and still leave conversations with less than they asked for. If you have ever softened an ask until it disappeared or buried a good point under five extra reasons, this episode is for you.Your Action StepTake one ask you have been carrying; the one you keep meaning to make but have not yet made. Write it as three sentences:The ask, stated in one line with a number in it.The reason, framed around business impact or consequence.The word “silence,” to remind you to stop talking after you make the ask.Read it out loud, remove every softener, and schedule the conversation this week.Mentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 188 - The Mid-Year Audit: 4 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Q4Common Questions About Negotiating at WorkWhy do I get a soft no even when my case is strong?Usually, the case is not the problem. Softening the ask and overexplaining can signal that the request is optional or uncertain before the other person has even responded. The fix is in how the ask is delivered, not in building an even longer case.Will being more direct make me seem aggressive?Not necessarily. There is a difference between softening your position, which weakens your ask, and keeping warmth in your delivery, which helps the message land. Clear and warm are not opposites.What should I do when the answer is no?Treat the first no as a position, not a verdict. Instead of retreating, ask, “What would need to be true for the answer to change?” That question shifts the conversation from whether to when and can surface conditions that had not been named.How is negotiating compensation different?The structure is similar, with one important rule: frame your reason around market value and contribution, not personal need. When the conversation shifts from what your work is worth to what you need to live, your leverage can weaken.Ready to Go Deeper?Knowing the structure is one thing. Building the actual ask for your situation—the evidence you bring, the number you name, and the way you open the conversation—is easier with someone in your corner who has done this work before.A Leadership Strategy Call is a complimentary 30-minute conversation where you can bring the real ask you are sitting on and build a plan together. Let's talk about where you are, where you want to go, and what it will take to get there.Book your Leadership Strategy CallAbout Your HostKele Belton is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and consultant who helps high-performing women in middle and senior management move from essential but invisible to seen, sponsored, and promoted through strategic communication. She is the founder of The Tailored Approach and host of Communicate to Lead.Connect with KeleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.comBook a Leadership Strategy Call: https://calendly.com/kele-thetailoredapproach/leadership-strategy-call
Send Wilk a text with your feedback! (incoming msgs only - I can't reply) Kelsey Blahnik has spent her career as a social worker sitting across from people who don't see eye to eye—politically, personally, every which way—and she's found that peace was never about avoiding the hard conversation. It's about learning how to have it.In this episode, Kelsey and Wilk dig into her book, The And Way: Assertive Peacemaking in a Divided World, and the real difference between being assertive and being aggressive. Kelsey uses an Instant Pot analogy that sticks: if you never let the steam out, you're eventually going to explode. Her work is about finding a better way to vent.They also get into what Kelsey calls competing impulses—the idea that you're not just "a people pleaser" or "the difficult one," you're a whole human being capable of both, depending on the moment. That shift in self-perception, she says, is what makes it possible to extend the same grace to people you disagree with.If you've ever avoided a conversation because you weren't sure how to have it without it blowing up, this one's for you. Learn more about and connect with Kelsey Blahnik in the full show notes for this episode at www.DerateTheHate.com. The world is a better place if we are better people. Be grateful for all you've got. Make every day the day that you want it to be!Please follow the DTH podcast on:Facebook, Instagram, Twitter(X) , YouTube, Substack Subscribe to us wherever you enjoy your audio or from our site. Please leave us a rating and feedback on Apple podcasts or other platforms. You can share your thoughts or request Wilk for a speaking engagement on our contact page: DerateTheHate.com/ContactThe Derate The Hate podcast is proudly produced in collaboration with Braver Angels — America's largest grassroots, cross-partisan organization working toward civic renewal and bridging partisan divides. Learn more: BraverAngels.orgWelcome to the Derate The Hate Podcast!*The views expressed by Wilk, his guest hosts &/or guests on the Derate The Hate podcast are their own and should not be attributed to any organization they may otherwise be affiliated with.
Most organizations can describe their values. The real challenge is helping people live them when pressure, habits, and competing priorities get in the way. In this thought-provoking conversation, Stephen Paskoff explains why changing behavior—not simply communicating expectations—is the true work of leadership. Drawing on four decades of experience helping organizations create respectful, accountable workplaces, Steve shares unforgettable stories that reveal how managers shape culture, why habits matter more than policies, and what it really takes to influence behavior over time. You'll hear the remarkable healthcare stories that transformed Steve's thinking, the leadership lesson he learned as a teenager selling shoes, and a simple exercise that will forever change how you think about leading people. Whether you're responsible for one employee or thousands, this episode will challenge you to move beyond values statements and begin creating the daily behaviors that define exceptional cultures. Stephen is the founder and Chair of Employment Learning Innovations, Inc. (ELI), a learning and human capital consulting company. ELI works with public and private organizations to build lawful, productive workplaces that maximize results and reduce compliance and other risks. He is a nationally recognized speaker and author on workplace legal issues. Before founding ELI in 1986, Stephen was an EEOC trial attorney and partner in a management law firm. He is the author of two books, Teaching Big Shots to Behave and Other Human Resource Challenges and Civility Rules! A New Business Approach for Boosting Results and Cutting Risks. You'll discoverWhy values alone don't change behavior How leaders build lasting workplace habits What managers communicate without realizing it Why respect drives better business results How everyday actions shape organizational culture Connect with Stephen Paskoff on Social MediaLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/eliinc Website Employment Learning Innovations https://eliinc.com/ BooksCivility Rules! A New Business Approach for Boosting Results and Cutting Risks https://www.amazon.com/CIVILITY-Business-Approach-Boosting-Results/dp/0692601570 Teaching Big Shots to Behave and Other Human Resource Challenges https://www.amazon.com/Teaching-Shots-Behave-Resources-Challenges/dp/0975895001 Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
In this episode, Rebecca Harrington interviews Jason Snart. Jason Snart is a Professor of English at the College of DuPage and chair within the English department, specializing in areas such as creative writing, film, and literature. In the interview, they discuss the wide range of career paths an English degree can support, the transferable skills students develop—such as communication, critical thinking, storytelling, and research—and how these align with employer expectations and the NACE competencies. They also explore the different areas within English studies, the importance of audience awareness, and ways students can gain experience and stand out through involvement and curiosity. After listening to this episode, we hope you have a better understanding of the value and versatility of an English degree in preparing for a variety of careers. Full episode transcript can be found on the episode page. Below is a general timestamp summary. 00:00–02:30 | Introduction & Overview of English Degrees Rebecca Harrington introduces the episode and welcomes Professor Jason Snart, who shares his background and explains the broad scope of English studies. They begin by framing English as a versatile degree that supports many career paths rather than a single, direct profession. 02:30–06:30 | Transferable Skills & Career Readiness The conversation focuses on key skills developed through English programs, including communication, critical thinking, research, and collaboration. These competencies are connected to employer expectations and NACE career readiness standards, emphasizing their relevance across industries. 06:30–11:30 | Areas Within English & Storytelling Skills Snart highlights different disciplines within English—creative writing, literature, film, and professional writing—and how each builds analytical and creative abilities. The importance of storytelling, audience awareness, and adapting communication for different contexts is emphasized. 11:30–15:30 | Experiential Learning & Co-Curricular Opportunities They discuss ways students can build experience outside the classroom, including clubs, events, and campus involvement. Both stress the value of engagement, curiosity, and applying classroom learning to real-world environments. 15:30–19:30 | Career Preparation, Positioning Skills & English as a Complement Advice is shared on how students can market their skills, develop an “elevator pitch,” and use English courses or a minor to enhance other fields of study. The discussion reinforces English as a strong complement to technical degrees. 19:30–23:30 | Long-Term Value, AI, & Final Advice The episode concludes with reflections on the lasting value of communication and critical thinking skills, even as technology evolves. Snart underscores the importance of authentic voice and adaptability, encouraging students to leverage English skills throughout their careers. Resources Discussed: College of DuPage English Programs webpage Listeners in the College of DuPage community can visit our website. All other listeners are encouraged to view the resources of their local community college, WIOA training programs, or other local support centers.Send us YOUR Listener Questions at careerpodcast@cod.edu Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn @codcareercenter
"Know your stuff, practice, and then just do it and be there."How do you explain complex ideas without losing your audience? The challenge isn't knowing more—it's helping others understand. For Marketplace host Kai Ryssdal, great communication comes from making difficult topics accessible while holding people's attention. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Ryssdal joins Matt Abrahams to discuss how to simplify complex information without oversimplifying it, conduct interviews that feel like genuine conversations, and communicate with confidence under pressure. From asking better questions to earning your audience's trust, Ryssdal shares practical techniques for staying present when the stakes are high.Key Takeaways:Complex ideas become powerful when they're easy to understand. Great communicators don't just share information—they translate it into clear, engaging messages that help others learn without sacrificing nuance.Preparation gives you the freedom to be present. The more thoroughly you prepare, the easier it becomes to listen, adapt, and communicate with confidence when the conversation takes an unexpected turn.Activity:Rewrite for clarity. Take an email, presentation, or document you've already written and revise it for someone with no background in the topic. Remove jargon, simplify explanations, and make sure every sentence helps your audience understand your message.Episode Reference Links:Kai RyssdalEp.220 Prep Like a Pro: Communication Confidence, Clarity, and Comedy 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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:59) - Making Complex Ideas Clear (02:24) - Find Your Communication Rhythm (03:30) - Keeping People Listening (04:38) - Better Introductions (05:50) - More Conversational Interviews (08:49) - Getting Conversations Back on Track (10:23) - Communicating Through Uncertainty (12:23) - Managing Speaking Anxiety (14:22) - Recovering from Mistakes (15:39) - Staying Curious (16:42) - When Your Mind Goes Blank (18:05) - The Final Three Questions (21:35) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.With LinkedIn Hiring Pro, you can hire with confidence, knowing you're getting the best talent for your needs. Get started by posting your job for free at linkedin.com/fast
Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy! Check out the full episode: https://greatness.lnk.to/1477DM Leadership coach Michael Bungay Stanier shares communication insights to increase magnetism and results. He stresses determining desired outcomes before conversations. Stanier details navigating both personal goals and other's temperaments, distinguishing objective facts from subjective interpretations. He advocates identifying then voicing the most constructive feelings and views. Stanier explains hand gestures establishing audience rapport at events, lowering them to seem vulnerable or lifting to celebrate. He describes prep techniques like prompting participation, risk-taking and camaraderie. Stanier underscores seeding goodwill, then spotlighting attendees' greatness. He models priming groups for open-hearted receptivity before imparting any content. Sign up for the Greatness newsletter! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
July was Voice Month on Dancing in the Discomfort Zone, and what started as four completely different conversations turned out to have one beautiful common thread: Your voice is how people experience you, and especially today...that matters! As Anne (https://YourChangeSpeaker.com) celebrates another trip around the sun (Happy Birthday Anne!), she reflects on the lessons shared by John Di Domenico, Joshua Seth, Hilary Blair, and Beth Z and explores why our voices matter now more than ever. In a world filled with AI, deepfakes, curated social media personas, and constant noise, authenticity has become one of our greatest superpowers. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why your voice is far more than just the sound coming out of your mouth How authenticity and human connection are becoming more valuable in the age of AI The ways your voice builds trust, relationships, and influence Why intentional communication matters more than being louder How to think about the "flowers" you're leaving in your footsteps Questions to ConsiderHow do people experience you?Are you using your voice intentionally? What stories are you telling? What truths are you willing to speak? What kind of ripples are you creating?As Anne enters her 52nd year, she offers a powerful reminder:Maybe the goal isn't to be louder or more impressive. Maybe it's simply to use the voice we've been given to leave people feeling seen, heard, and a little bit better for having crossed our path. Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.
Does your team only perform at its best when something goes wrong?Strong crisis leadership is valuable when a real emergency occurs, but relying on urgency to motivate your team can become a trap. When everything feels critical, people become overwhelmed, trust begins to erode, and there is little time to build the routines that support sustainable performance. In this episode, you'll learn how to help your team succeed without depending on pressure, adrenaline, or last-minute heroics.You'll learn how to:• Define what strong performance looks like during an ordinary workday when nothing is on fire.• Build clear systems, routines, and communication habits that keep work moving without manufactured urgency.• Recognize steady progress and quiet excellence so your team develops healthier, more sustainable ways to succeed.Play the episode to strengthen your crisis leadership skills while building a team that can deliver consistent results without burnout, unnecessary drama, or constant emergencies.Check out: 02:05 | When Crisis Leadership Becomes a TrapDiscover why some leaders and teams perform best under pressure, but struggle to maintain clarity, urgency, and follow-through when the crisis ends.05:12 | Define What Winning Looks Like Without the FireLearn how to describe strong everyday performance and build systems, routines, and communication habits that do not depend on urgency.08:49 | Celebrate the Unglamorous WinsExplore how recognizing steady progress and quiet excellence can help your team build sustainable success without relying on last-minute heroics.Leadership Without Using Your Soul podcast offers insightful discussions on leadership and management, focusing on essential communication skills, productivity, teamwork, delegation, and feedback to help leaders navigate various leadership styles, management styles, conflict resolution, time management, and active listening while addressing challenges like overwhelm, burnout, work-life balance, and problem-solving in both online and in-person teams, all aimed at cultivating human-centered leadership qualities that promote growth and success.
Today's episode is part two of a BONUS series on couples work AKA the things couples can do to be successful in the relationships. Talon and I are working through various workbooks (all free and not copyrighted) and activities to help explore our own relationship skills and teach about relationship skills. Today we continue the focus on communication skills. Today's free worksheet we reference can be found HERE Workbooks you might like to purchase to work through: Love More Fight Less 8 Week Couple's Therapy Workbook 7 Principles For Making Marriage Work Hold Me Tight The Gottman Method HERESend us a text message to be anonymously read and responded to! Support the showYou can find Sara on Instagram @borderlinefromhell. You can also find the podcast on IG @boldbeautifulborderlineCorey Evans is the artist for the music featured. He can be found HERE Talon Abbott created the cover art. He. can be found HERE Leave us a voicemail about your thoughts or questions on the show at boldbeautifulborderline.comIf you like the show we would love if you could rate, subscribe and support us on Patreon. Patreon info here: https://www.patreon.com/boldbeautifulborderline?fan_landing=true Purchase Sara's Exploring Your Borderline Strengths Journal at https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Your-Borderline-Strengths-Amundson/dp/B0C522Y7QT/ref=sr_1_1?crid=IGQBWJRE3CFX&keywords=exploring+your+borderline+strengths&qid=1685383771&sprefix=exploring+your+bor%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-1 For mental health supports:National Suicide Preve...
What happens when values collide with results and a difficult decision has to be made?Earl Rattray spent more than three decades helping organizations answer that question in real time. Drawing on his experience leading global ethics and compliance efforts at Colgate-Palmolive, Earl shares why values only become meaningful when they're tested, how managers shape culture more than policies ever can, and why trust is the foundation of every healthy workplace. You'll hear stories from Earl's visits to teams around the world, lessons learned from employees who challenged his assumptions, and the experience early in his career that revealed his own courage. Whether you're leading a team or influencing culture from any position, you'll come away thinking differently about speaking up, earning trust, and what it really means to do the right thing when the stakes are high. Earl spent more than two decades as a senior ethics and compliance executive at Colgate-Palmolive, most recently serving as Senior Vice President of Global Ethics and Compliance. In that role, he built and led a compliance program operating across more than 200 countries and territories. He also advised C-Suite leaders and Board committees on institutional integrity, governance strategy, and emerging risk. Under Earl's leadership, the company was recognized by Ethisphere as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies for 16 consecutive years — one of the most rigorous ethics distinctions in the corporate world. His mission is to help organizations build compliance programs and ethical cultures that hold up under real-world pressure. He believes that principled leadership is not a policy or a program. It is a daily practice, most visible in the moments when doing the right thing comes at a cost. You'll discoverWhy values matter most under pressure How managers shape everyday workplace culture What creates genuine psychological safety Why trust is leadership's most valuable currency How courage grows when you speak up Connect with Earl RattraySocial MediaLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/earl-rattray-32535189/ Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
Today, I'm joined by Grant "Upbeat" Bosnick, leadership expert, executive coach, keynote speaker, former professional musician, and founder of YES! (Your Empowering Solutions). For more than 25 years, Grant has helped leaders and organizations across 45 countries develop stronger leaders, build high-performing teams, and navigate change. In this episode, Grant and I explore what truly separates great communicators from everyone else. We discuss why communication is ultimately about creating connection, why the best leaders know when to speak and when to stay silent, and how trust, responsiveness, and genuine curiosity shape every meaningful conversation. We also talk about leading in the age of AI, influencing others without manipulation, and why listening with your heart may be one of the most important communication habits you can develop. Whether you're leading a team, coaching employees, managing change, or simply looking to become a stronger communicator, you'll walk away with practical ideas you can put to work immediately. Let's dive in. Additional Resources: ► Follow Communispond on LinkedIn for more communication skills tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/communispond ► Connect with Scott D'Amico on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdamico/ ► Connect with Grant on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantbosnick/ ► Learn more about Grant: https://grantbosnick.com/ ► Learn more about YES : https://yes-sol.com/ ► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/ ► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com
Most people think great storytellers are born with natural talent. They're wrong. In this conversation, storytelling expert Philipp Humm explains why storytelling is actually a learnable skill—and why it may be the most valuable communication skill for entrepreneurs, leaders, investors, parents, and anyone who wants to influence others. You'll discover: ✔️ The 3 elements every unforgettable story needs ✔️ Why most public speaking advice actually makes you worse ✔️ How to become a confident speaker without memorizing speeches ✔️ The storytelling framework entrepreneurs should use to sell ideas naturally ✔️ Why emotion beats information every time ✔️ How impromptu speaking builds confidence faster than rehearsing scripts ✔️ The psychology behind stories that people remember for years ✔️ Why authenticity isn't about perfection—it's about connection Whether you're raising capital, leading a team, pitching clients, creating content, or simply trying to become a better communicator, these storytelling principles will transform how people listen to you. One of the biggest takeaways? People don't remember information. They remember stories. And the best part is—you don't need extraordinary life experiences to become a great storyteller. You simply need to learn how to tell everyday moments in a way that creates surprise, emotion, and vivid imagery. If you want to become a better speaker, leader, entrepreneur, salesperson, or content creator, this conversation is packed with practical techniques you can start using today. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro 00:49 Meet Storytelling Expert Philipp Humm 01:50 Why Philipp Became a Storytelling Coach 03:38 The 3 Ingredients of Every Great Story 06:53 Jake Critiques His Own Story 07:38 The Biggest Storytelling Mistake People Make 09:44 Why TED Talks Often Feel Fake 11:37 The Surprising Power of Stories in Business 14:17 The Two Stories Every Entrepreneur Must Master 15:33 Gino's Origin Story (A Story Done Right) 18:18 How Long Should a Story Be? 21:14 Customer Stories vs. Boring Case Studies 23:24 Public Speaking Tips That Actually Work 25:20 Live Impromptu Speaking Challenge 30:13 Storytelling vs. Public Speaking 35:00 How to Make Stories More Memorable 37:30 The Confidence Exercise That Changed Everything 41:02 Why Memorizing Speeches Hurts You 42:20 How to Practice Speaking Every Day 44:00 Turn "How Are You?" Into a Great Story 45:20 The Fastest Way to Become a Better Speaker 47:07 Final Takeaways on Storytelling & Leadership 49:04 Outro
"When there's a gap between our intention and our impact, we diminish others and our communication."The best leaders don't succeed because they have all the answers—they succeed because they bring out the best thinking in others. Liz Wiseman, executive advisor, CEO of the Wiseman Group, and author of the million-copy bestseller Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter, has spent years studying why some leaders amplify the intelligence around them while others unintentionally hold people back. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wiseman joins Matt Abrahams to explore the habits of multiplier leaders, the subtle ways well-intentioned managers accidentally diminish their teams, and how curiosity, trust, and thoughtful communication create environments where people can do their best work. Together, they share practical strategies for leading with greater impact by aligning your intentions with the experience you create for others.Key Takeaways:Great leaders multiply, not diminish. Create trust, ask more than you tell, and challenge people to do their best thinking instead of stepping in with the answers.Good intentions aren't enough. The most effective communicators pay attention to the impact of their actions, ensuring their support empowers others rather than unintentionally holding them back.Activity:Ask the multiplier question. At the end of your next one-on-one or team meeting, ask: "What do you need from me to do your best work?" Listen without jumping in to solve the problem. Focus on understanding what will help others think, contribute, and perform at their highest level.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Liz WisemanLiz's Book: Multipliers147. Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be212. Break It to Make It: Disrupt Your Way to the Perfect Job FitConnect: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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:55) - Multipliers vs. Diminishers (02:26) - The Habits That Hold Teams Back (03:54) - Safety, Stretch, & Trust (05:12) - Curiosity Over Control (06:56) - The Most Important Leadership Question (09:14) - Becoming an Impact Player (12:20) - When Good Intentions Backfire (15:54) - Accidental Diminishing (19:47) - The Final Three Questions (25:07) - Conclusion
The Liberated Life - Set Yourself Free in Business and Pleasure
We're taught that staying calm, letting it go, and being the bigger person is the mature, high-road move. But sometimes "keeping the peace" is just another way of abandoning yourself — and every time you swallow it, smooth it over, or let it slide, you're quietly teaching people what you'll tolerate. In this episode, Robin Quinn Keehn unpacks the difference between real calm — the kind rooted in self-trust and clear boundaries — and the performance of calm that slowly erodes your self-respect. You'll learn why the calmest person in the room actually holds the most authority, how to tell when "being gracious" has tipped into self-betrayal, and what it sounds like to say the last calm word in a way that keeps you honest instead of just keeping everyone else comfortable. If you've ever walked away from a conversation calm on the outside and hollow on the inside, this one's for you. In this episode: • Why "being the bigger person" can be self-betrayal in disguise • The difference between keeping the peace and keeping your integrity • How staying silent teaches people what you'll tolerate • What the calmest, most grounded response actually sounds like
Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this dynamic episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we sit down with Chris Hallberg, affectionately known as the Business Sergeant. Chris is a renowned leadership expert and business strategist who has transformed organizations through his practical, no-nonsense approach to leadership and culture. With a wealth of experience guiding over 100 leadership teams, he shares his insights on building high-performing cultures and the unique strengths veterans bring to the business world.Chris recounts his journey from a military career as a National Guard military police sergeant to becoming a successful entrepreneur who built an award-winning energy-efficient remodeling company during the Great Recession. He emphasizes the importance of accountability, clear communication, and the necessity of having the right people in the right roles to foster organizational success.Listeners will learn about:- The common blind spots that hold leaders back from greatness- Strategies for creating a culture that employees genuinely want to be a part of- How to increase employee engagement without a budget increase- The hidden value of hiring veterans and the leadership skills they possess- Insights into Chris's upcoming projects, including the innovative Go Expand software and his veteran-powered recruiting initiativeJoin us for an insightful conversation that challenges conventional leadership wisdom and inspires you to elevate your organizational practices. For more information on Chris Hallberg and his work, visit businesssargent.com and connect with him on LinkedIn for ongoing updates and resources.Support the show
Title of Podcast: Summer Advantage: Building Confidence and Communication Skills Before September New Podcast Episode: Summer Confidence Boost: Sharpen Your Communication Skills Welcome to this episode hosted by Susan, where she explores how you can use the summer months as a strategic opportunity to develop your professional and communication skills. Drawing on her experience working with thousands of professionals, Susan unpacks the neuroscience behind behavioral change, the pitfalls of traditional training, and why summer is the ideal time to prepare for the busy season ahead. She also introduces her 5-week program, "Be Seen, Be Heard, Make an Impact," designed to foster authentic confidence and communication through practice and reflection.
In this episode of Zone 7, Sheryl McCollum is joined by retired Secret Service agent and polygraph examiner Brad Beeler to discuss what 25 years of talking with suspects, witnesses, victims, and some of the worst offenders taught him about getting people to open up and tell the truth. Brad covers why trust has to come before truth, the damage one accusatory word can do to a conversation, and how respect gets people to open up faster than pressure ever will. He also shares practical signs that may indicate deception, why sometimes the best thing you can do is stop talking and listen, and how the same principles he relied on in high-stakes investigations can help anyone become a better communicator. Highlights: (0:00) Sheryl McCollum introduces retired Secret Service agent Brad Beeler and the moment she saw his commitment to a cold case firsthand (5:30) Why making people feel heard, respected, and genuinely listened to can change a conversation (8:00) The worst thing you can call someone when you are trying to get the truth (10:00) Why Brad aims to listen 80% of the time and what investigators can learn when they stop talking (15:45) “Create a space where truth feels safe enough to emerge” (17:45) Why even the worst offenders have to be treated with respect if investigators want answers (21:30) How Brad evaluates possible deception without relying on a single supposed ‘tell’ (23:15) Turning a story into a yes-or-no question to test whether someone will stand behind what they said (24:30) Delayed answers, vocal inflection, overly specific responses, and qualifying words that may signal deception (27:15) Why respect matters more than rapport when you have little in common with someone (28:30) What protecting foreign dignitaries taught Brad about professional respect across cultural and political divides Enjoying Zone 7? Leave a rating and review where you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps others find the show and supports the mission to educate, engage, and inspire. --- Brad Beeler is a retired U.S. Secret Service agent and polygraph examiner with 25 years of experience conducting high-stakes interviews and investigations. Named Secret Service Special Agent of the Year, he is also a recipient of the Director’s Service Award and Forensic Hero Award and a former instructor at the National Center for Credibility Assessment. He is the author of Tell me Everything: A Secret Service Agent’s Proven Strategies for Earning Trust, Revealing Truth, and Communicating with Anyone.| Sheryl “Mac” McCollum is an active crime scene investigator for a metro Atlanta police department and the director of the Cold Case Investigative Research Institute, which partners with colleges and universities nationwide. With more than four decades of experience, she has worked on thousands of cold cases using her investigative system, The Last 24/361, which integrates evidence, media, and advanced forensic testing. Her work on high-profile cases, including The Boston Strangler, Natalie Holloway, Tupac Shakur and the Moore’s Ford Bridge lynching, led to her Emmy Award for CSI: Atlanta and induction into the National Law Enforcement Hall of Fame in 2023. Social Links: Email: coldcase2004@gmail.com X: @ColdCaseTips Facebook: @sheryl.mccollum Instagram: @officialzone7podcast TikTok: @Sheryl.McCollum Sheryl’s new book, Swans Don’t Swim in a Sewer: Solving the Cold Case of the Flint River Killer’s Daughter, is available now wherever books are sold. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Send us Fan MailEpisode Summary: In this engaging interview, retired FBI agent Jerri Williams shares insights from her career, debunks common misconceptions about the FBI, and discusses the art of storytelling in law enforcement. Discover how honesty, relationship-building, and effective communication build public trust and how her journey into crime fiction complements her mission to educate the public.BIO: Jerri Williams, a retired FBI agent, author, and podcaster, served 26 years in the FBI, specializing in economic fraud and corruption investigations. She's now on a mission to show the public who the FBI is and what the FBI does. January 2026 marks her 10th anniversary hosting and producing FBI Case File Review, a true-crime podcast. Jerri has authored four books: two FBI policeprocedurals and two nonfiction books that debunk misconceptions about the FBI found in books, TV, and movies. Her work helps true crime enthusiasts and aspiring FBI agents learn how the FBI investigates crime. Visit jerriwilliams.com.Support the showOur premiere sponsor, Social News Desk, has an exclusive offer for PIO Podcast listeners. Head over to socialnewsdesk.com/pio to get three months free when a qualifying agency signs up.
Today's we're starting a new BONUS series on couple's work AKA the things couples can do to be successful in the relationships. Talon and I are working through various workbooks (all free and not copyrighted) and activities to help explore our own relationship skills and teach about relationship skills. Today we focus on communication skills. Today's free worksheet we reference can be found HERE Workbooks you might like to purchase to work through: Love More Fight Less 8 Week Couple's Therapy Workbook 7 Principles For Making Marriage Work Hold Me Tight Send us a text message to be anonymously read and responded to! Support the showYou can find Sara on Instagram @borderlinefromhell. You can also find the podcast on IG @boldbeautifulborderlineCorey Evans is the artist for the music featured. He can be found HERE Talon Abbott created the cover art. He. can be found HERE Leave us a voicemail about your thoughts or questions on the show at boldbeautifulborderline.comIf you like the show we would love if you could rate, subscribe and support us on Patreon. Patreon info here: https://www.patreon.com/boldbeautifulborderline?fan_landing=true Purchase Sara's Exploring Your Borderline Strengths Journal at https://www.amazon.com/Exploring-Your-Borderline-Strengths-Amundson/dp/B0C522Y7QT/ref=sr_1_1?crid=IGQBWJRE3CFX&keywords=exploring+your+borderline+strengths&qid=1685383771&sprefix=exploring+your+bor%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-1 For mental health supports:National Suicide Preve...
Most people don't have a short attention span. They have a low threshold for boredom.Netflix asks "are you still watching?" and you always say yes when the story's good. The same thing happens in a boardroom, on a stage, in a pitch meeting. People don't tune out because they can't focus. They tune out because you gave them a reason to.So what makes some speakers impossible to look away from, while others lose the room in the first thirty seconds?It's not charisma. It's not luck. It's a handful of specific, learnable habits: how fast you get to the point, how often you deliver something worth hearing, and whether you're brave enough to say something only you could say.In this episode, I break down exactly how I coach CEOs, TEDx speakers, and total beginners to hold a room's attention from the first second to the last. You'll learn why you have one tenth of a second to make a first impression, why "rate of revelation" matters more than most people realize, and why stories beat spreadsheets every single time.I also share the exact opening formula I use before every talk, the reason AI generated content falls flat no matter how polished it looks, and a personal story about my son that shows why none of this works without honesty.If you've ever watched someone speak and thought "why can't I do that," this episode is the answer.Apply to work with me: https://www.michaelxcampion.com/Connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelxcampion/(00:00) Why Public Speaking Fear Is Universal(01:20) It's Not About You: Serve the Idea, Not the Ego(02:36) Nervous or Excited? The Story You Tell Yourself(03:22) Practice Is the Enemy of Doubt(04:39) Record Yourself: The Fastest Way to Improve(05:52) Is Persuasion Manipulation?(08:33) The H.I.U. Formula for Opening Any Talk(09:49) First Impressions and the Rate of Revelation(12:33) Attention Span Myth: Why Stories Beat Spreadsheets(15:26) Why AI Can't Replace Your Voice(17:58) The SHUSH Storytelling Formula(22:21) Structure, Frameworks, and Why Talent Is Practice in Disguise
What if the most important leadership moment of your career lasts only five minutes? Angela Burgess believes that meaningful change often begins with a single conversation. In this episode, she shares the story of a manager who saw potential in her when she was struggling, offered a different perspective, and changed the trajectory of her career. That experience shaped Angela's belief that leaders have an extraordinary opportunity to help people see possibilities in themselves that they cannot yet see on their own. As Founder and CEO of Broad Oaks Consulting, Angela works with nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and advisors who need to navigate conversations that many people avoid. Along the way, she has become a passionate advocate for curiosity, active listening, and encouragement. You'll hear why asking better questions matters, why listening is more than hearing words, and how small acts of genuine caring can leave a lasting impact long after we forget we ever made them. You'll discoverWhy one conversation can alter a career How curiosity creates deeper connections What great listeners do differently Why encouragement matters more than you realize How to serve others through conversation Connect with Angela Burgess on Social MediaLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelaburgesshtxFacebook https://www.facebook.com/broadoaksconsulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlHvCYUSmc0ResourcesWebsite Angela Burgess https://angelaburgesshtx.comBroad Oaks Consulting https://broadoaksconsulting.com/ BookAre You On the Right Bus?: Navigating Change on the Road to Success https://www.amazon.com/Are-You-Right-Bus-Navigating/dp/B0D2JG5D5K Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
The truth is, some of the most powerful career moves happen when you don't ask for anything at all. This Friday, July 24th, my client Sarah-Neel Smith and I are going to teach you exactly how to have those career conversations where you don't ask for anything at all and generate power for your negotiation outcomes. All the details here: https://antinetworking.jamieleecoach.com/If you're going, "Wait, what? How does that happen?" I explain it in detail in this episode. What you'll learn: How not asking for anything in preliminary conversations can grow your negotiation leverage for job offer or promotion negotiation Key questions I ask about my client's organization's promotion cycle, decision-makers, and influencers and why answering those questions matter How curious, no-ask conversations across functions and levels help you better understand the system and negotiate better outcomesHow can you use informational interviews to cut through information asymmetry when you're negotiating a job offer or raise?Case Study 1: How a client used informational interview to secure a $250K base salary as director of finance at an AI startup Case Study 2: How another client used informational interviews to compel her boss to secure the highest pay increase possible as director of marketing What you'll learn and gain from joining Anti-Networking workshop with Sarah-Neel and me on Friday, July 24th Mentioned: Interview with client Grace Anniskett: https://podcast.jamieleecoach.com/2033808/episodes/12125488-from-minimum-wage-to-ceo-with-grace-anniskett-of-anniskett-consulting-groupInterview with client Sarah-Neel Smith: https://podcast.jamieleecoach.com/2033808/episodes/19111448-50-raise-self-advocacy-informational-interviews-sarah-neel-smith-phd-with-coach-jamie-leeText me your thoughts on this episode!Enjoy the show? Don't miss an episode, listen and subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Leave me a review in Apple Podcasts. Connect with meBook a free hour-long consultation with me. You'll leave with your custom blueprint to confidence, and we'll ensure it's a slam-dunk fit for you before you commit to working with me 1:1. Connect with me on LinkedIn Email me at jamie@jamieleecoach.com
"It's not an accent, it's an identity."The way we speak shapes more than how we're understood—it shapes how we're perceived. Peter Novak believes the goal of communication isn't to eliminate an accent, but to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and authenticity. As a linguist, communication coach, and expert in accent bias, Novak helps multilingual professionals communicate more effectively while embracing the identity their voice represents. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, he joins Matt Abrahams to explore how accent bias influences the workplace, why clarity matters more than sounding "native," and the practical techniques anyone can use to communicate with greater confidence and impact.Key Takeaways:Clarity matters more than sounding native. Effective communication comes from making your message easy to understand, not eliminating your accent.Your accent is part of your identity. Multilingual communicators bring unique perspectives and strengths that should be embraced, not hidden.Activity:Focus on clarity. Record yourself explaining a familiar topic for one minute. Listen back and identify three words or phrases to emphasize and two places to pause. Record it again, focusing on clarity rather than sounding perfect, and compare the difference.Episode Reference Links:Peter Novak82. It's Not About You: Why Effective Communicators Put Others F… 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 (00:52) - Accent Bias (03:55) - Accent and Identity (05:55) - Processing Fluency (08:25) - Clarity Over Perfection (10:26) - The Power of Prosody (15:33) - Speaking with Confidence (17:56) - The Final Three Questions (22:13) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.To see what Scribe could look like for your organization, head to scribe.how/thinkfast and mention Think Fast for your first month of Scribe Capture free.
With AI proliferating at a rapid pace - it has professionals wondering: will AI take my job? Today I want to help quell the fear of AI job displacement by highlighting the leadership communication skills that AI can never replace. When you know how to speak effectively and persuasively - it becomes hard for AI to take your job, because AI is incredibly limited in this area. In this episode you'll learn: -The 3 types of communication that companies value-Why AI can only do 1 out of 3 well-The 2 communication skills that'll help you become AI proof If you are ready for peace of mind amidst the stress of the AI boom, my hope is that this episode will reassure you. Because the truth is - AI can never quite be as powerful as you are.Links: Bias to Action free worksheet: https://jessguzikcoaching.com/biastoaction/ 1:1 Coaching: https://jessguzikcoaching.com/coaching/ Group Program:https://jessguzikcoaching.com/academy/ An episode to help you dive deeper: Listen to 402 in Apple | Listen to 402 in Spotify I would love to hear what you thought of this episode! DM me on Instagram or email me at jessica@theartofspeakingup.com
What if the biggest thing affecting your relationships, leadership, and communication isn't what you're saying...but how you're breathing?In this episode, Anne sits down with speaker, facilitator, and communication expert Hilary Blair (hilaryblairspeaks.com), creator of the Fruitful Friction® framework, to explore the surprising connection between breath, voice, trust, and human connection. Drawing from decades in theater and corporate leadership development, Hilary reveals why your voice is a giant "poker tell" and how small shifts in breath and awareness can dramatically change the way people experience you. If you've ever struggled with difficult conversations, workplace conflict, executive presence, or feeling truly heard, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.In This Episode, We Talk About: Why your voice communicates trust before you even speak the words How breath affects confidence, connection, and emotional regulation The difference between being vulnerable and being available Why "take a deep breath" may be terrible advice...and what to do instead How tone, vowels, consonants, and vocal habits influence relationships Want more from Hilary?HilaryBlairSpeaks.comArticulateRC.comHilary Blair is a dynamic speaker, facilitator and CEO of ARTiculate: Real&Clear. She's the creator of Fruitful Friction®, a framework redefining tension as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and trust. Blending her background as a professional actor with deep expertise in communication and executive presence, Hilary helps leaders stay in conversation when it matters most. Her work equips teams to engage authentically, communicate clearly, and use friction to gain traction for growth.Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.
Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga Pull up a chair and let's talk about something I've been exploring lately. It's the “depth of inquiry” that steers a nice essay into a memorable story. That sounds a bit academic, right? But here on Front Porch Friday© what it really means is the difference between just surviving your life, and actually understanding the truth of what you've lived through. Too often, as women, we get into the habit of just reporting the facts. We tell our stories like a laundry list of events. "I raised the kids, I worked the job, I did what was expected, and now I'm here." There's no story magic because you are missing. We do the same thing when we speak out loud to the world—we say what's polite, or what keeps the peace, instead of saying what we actually mean. Think about a moment where you had to say a hard "no" to someone, or maybe you finally picked up a hobby you abandoned years ago. The surface story is simple: "I was too busy for another commitment," or "I just wanted a new creative project." But looking deeper we feel the memorable story. The truth is more than protecting your calendar or buying art supplies; you realized that your time and your passions don't belong to everyone else anymore. You decided that you are finally ready to be seen and heard exactly as you are, without adapting yourself so others feel comfortable. That shift right there? That is “depth of inquiry.” It's stopping the report and starting the investigation, the exciting archeological dig on your life. Story Prompt: As you go about your day, take a deep look past the surface of your own daily routine as if gazing into a wishing well. Don't just report the facts of your life to yourself. Find the glimmering coins of a deeper truth under the surface; write that story and share it out loud! You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, please subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. AND! Stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website during reconstruction, email me [info@quartermoonstoryarts.net] to arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as Quarter Moon Story Arts on Substack. Stories From Women Who Walk Production Team Podcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story Arts Music: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron Music ALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved. If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.
What if the hardest part of parenting… isn't raising children—but learning how to relate to them as adults?In this powerful and eye-opening episode, I sit down with Catherine Hickem—licensed clinical social worker, psychotherapist, executive coach, and founder of Parenting Adult Children Today—to explore one of the most overlooked and emotionally complex stages of family life: parenting adult children.With over 40 years of experience helping families navigate conflict, change, and growth, Catherine brings both professional expertise and personal insight to a topic that affects nearly every family—yet is rarely talked about openly.We dive into why so many parent-child relationships become strained over time, and what it really takes to rebuild trust, connection, and mutual respect.One statistic is especially striking: 1 in 4 adults is estranged from at least one parent. This isn't random—it's often the result of unspoken expectations, unresolved conflict, and missed opportunities for repair.Catherine challenges parents to take a courageous and honest look inward—shifting from reaction to reflection, from control to curiosity, and from authority to partnership.We also talk about the grief many parents carry—the loss of the child they imagined—and how processing that grief is essential to truly loving and accepting the adult child in front of them.This conversation is filled with compassion, clarity, and practical wisdom for anyone who wants a healthier, more meaningful relationship with their adult children.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why so many adult children become estranged from their parentsHow unspoken expectations quietly damage relationshipsThe critical shift from authority figure to trusted allyWhy parents must do their own inner work to rebuild connectionHow grief plays a hidden role in family relationshipsPractical ways to create safety, trust, and open communicationHow to move from control to curiosity in your parentingAbout Catherine Hickem:Catherine Hickem is a licensed clinical social worker, seasoned psychotherapist, executive coach, and founder of Parenting Adult Children Today. With over four decades of experience, she has helped thousands of families and leaders navigate emotional complexity with clarity and purpose.She is also the former leader of The Dash Group, a consultancy focused on building strong leaders, healthy cultures, and sustainable success.Her upcoming book, It's Never Too Late to Be a Great Parent (2026), offers a compassionate roadmap for healing, reconnection, and legacy-building within families.Key Takeaway:Your relationship with your child doesn't end when they become an adult—it evolves. And the quality of that relationship often depends on your willingness to grow, reflect, and meet them where they are.When parents create a safe, non-judgmental space, adult children don't pull away—they lean in.Listen and Share:If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a parent or someone navigating family challenges. These conversations have the power to heal relationships and strengthen families.Free Resource:For more support on emotional healing and personal growth, visit Hope for Healing for free resources and a guided Healing Breathwork Detox session.Listen, Share, and SupportIf this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may need hope today.Be sure to subscribe, leave a rating and review, and help us spread more healing and inspiration to the world.Free Resource for HealingIf you're ready to release stress, calm your mind, and begin healing from within, visit:
What if your culture isn't defined by your values, but by the behavior you're willing to tolerate? Steve Harris has spent decades helping organizations create environments where employees feel safe speaking up, leaders model the right behaviors, and ethics become part of everyday decision-making. As Chief Ethics and Compliance Officer at Lincoln Financial, Steve shares practical examples of how organizations can build trust, strengthen accountability, and help managers create psychological safety within their teams. You'll hear how Lincoln reframed speaking up from a compliance obligation to a business imperative, why frontline managers have such a powerful influence on culture, and how one difficult experience early in Steve's career shaped his view of the difference between what is legal and what is ethical. His stories offer valuable lessons for any leader who wants values to guide behavior when decisions become difficult. In his role as Senior Vice President and Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer at Lincoln Financial, Steve leads the company's enterprise compliance and sustainability programs and helps shape a culture of ethical decision-making across more than 11,000 employees. Under Steve's leadership, Lincoln Financial has been recognized five times as one of Ethisphere's World's Most Ethical Companies. Before joining Lincoln, Steve spent more than a decade at The Hartford, another long-time Ethisphere honoree, and he's built a reputation for helping organizations integrate ethics into business strategy, leadership, and culture. He's also a frequent speaker on ethics and compliance and serves on several industry and academic advisory boards. You'll discover:Why speaking up drives business success How managers create psychological safety What trust looks like in practice Why listening builds stronger cultures The difference between law and ethicsConnect with Steve Harris on Social MediaLinkedIn Website Lincoln Financial Check out all the episodesLeave a review on Apple PodcastsConnect with Meredith on LinkedIn
Today, I'm joined by Andrew Sykes, founder of Habits at Work, professor of executive education at the Kellogg School of Management, author, leadership expert, and global speaker who has spent his career helping leaders build trust, communicate with influence, and create lasting impact. In this episode, Andrew and I explore what truly separates great communicators from everyone else. We discuss why trust is the foundation of effective communication, why listening goes far beyond simply hearing words, and how storytelling helps leaders inspire action rather than simply share information. Whether you're leading a team, presenting ideas, managing relationships, or simply trying to become a better communicator, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can apply immediately. Let's dive in. Additional Resources: ► Follow Communispond on LinkedIn for more communication skills tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/communispond ► Connect with Scott D'Amico on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdamico/ ► Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewsykes1/ ► Learn more about Habits at Work: https://www.habitsatwork.com/ ► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/ ► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com
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