Podcasts about leadership communication

In this episode, Camden and I cover: Starting early: Camden's “self-starter” drive—and the mentors who helped him learn fast (including Kathleen Walsh, President/CEO of the Metro North YMCA). Beyond the Crisis: how watching families in the Boston area wait in long lines for food during COVID sparked an “Uber Eats-style” nonprofit distribution model—and how they partnered with Catholic Charities of Boston. Momentum and credibility: how the charity's visibility led to major exposure and new relationships (including appearances on CBS, Bloomberg, PBS, the Drew Barrymore Show, and even White House conferences). NomadAI: why Camden believes travel is a perfect industry for AI disruption—and how NomadAI aims to build itineraries and handle planning like a “24/7 assistant in your back pocket.” Meridian Capital Partners: a founder-focused “hub” that invests very early stage in college founders—especially people who don't have the usual resume or network. The hard parts: being misunderstood in a high-pressure prep school environment, dealing with racism, isolation, and having to finish part of high school online. The turning point: Universe taking three years to get funded, losing an early investor, and Camden's “dark night of the soul” moment—where he had to stop chasing comparison and decide what he's actually committed to. The mission behind Universe: Camden's focus on helping Gen Z navigate a brutal job/internship market—and building something that serves them in a way he feels LinkedIn doesn't.   A few lines worth remembering Camden on mission: “I'm really committed to making a difference and solving problems and connecting people.” Camden on perseverance: after setbacks and many calls, they found an accredited investor who put six figures in because he saw the MVP—and the dream. Camden to Gen Z builders: if you're in a tough season, keep going—try new things—persevere.   Links / Resources Mentioned NomadAI: NomadAI.io Universe (waitlist): UniverseApp.com   About Camden Francis (from this episode) Camden Francis is a Gen Z founder based in the Boston area. He co-founded: Beyond the Crisis, a COVID-era food distribution charity that moved ~$100,000 in food/resources with partners like Catholic Charities of Boston NomadAI, an AI-assisted travel planning and itinerary platform He's also building Universe, a career/network platform aimed at helping Gen Z navigate internships and jobs.   -----   Camden Francis, a dynamic 21-year-old currently pursuing a degree in Finance and Business Management, seamlessly blends academic prowess with an entrepreneurial spirit. Beyond the confines of his desk, Camden revels in the exhilaration of sports, cherishes quality moments with family and friends, and takes leisurely strolls with his beloved Goldendoodle, Brooks. His summers are often punctuated with escapes to Cape Cod, where he finds solace and inspiration. At the core of Camden's ethos is his commitment to making a positive impact. In 2020, he founded Beyond the Crisis, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the community. Under his leadership, the organization diligently distributes food and resources to housing communities and homeless shelters. Camden's visionary approach extends to the research team at Beyond the Crisis, which collaborates with major organizations to strategically combat food insecurity and enhance nutritional health at a national level. Not content with just one venture, Camden is also the visionary force behind "Univerze," a tech company that has birthed a professional networking mobile application. His multifaceted abilities extend beyond the boardroom; Camden is a captivating public speaker, having appeared on renowned platforms such as the Drew Barrymore Show, CBS, PBS, Bloomberg, and NPR. His insights on entrepreneurship have been shared with a broader audience through various podcasts, while his recently published book further underscores his commitment to knowledge dissemination. Looking ahead, Camden is set to expand his horizons. He envisions penning another influential book, venturing into real estate, and strategically growing his investment portfolio. For interviews or business inquiries, Camden Francis invites you to connect with him at info@camdenfrancis.com. Embrace the opportunity to engage with a young luminary whose charisma, innovation, and commitment to positive change define his journey.   --------John Bates provides 1:1 Executive Communications Coaching, both in-person and online. He also gets 92+ Net Promoter Scores for his large and small group leadership development trainings at organizations like Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Google, Intuit, Boston Scientific, and many more. Find more at https://executivespeakingsuccess.com.Sign up for his weekly micro-trainings for free at https://johnbates.com/mini-trainings and create a great leadership communications habit that makes you the kind of leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and connection.

What if the most powerful clinical tool in healthcare wasn't a drug, a device, or a data platform — but a word? In this episode of Experiencing Healthcare, Jamie and Matt have a conversation that starts with Disney World germs and ends with something that will change the way you lead your team tomorrow. They unpack the idea of Intentional Positive Reinforcement — not the hollow "great job" you throw over your shoulder in the hallway, but the kind of deliberate, meaningful recognition that creates a ripple effect all the way to the patient's bedside. Matt shares what a dental hygienist taught him about doing things right, why a pair of clicking heels in a nursing home hallway was actually a leadership strategy, and what happens to a healthcare team that only ever hears what they're doing wrong. This is a conversation for the bedside nurse and the C-suite executive. For the credentialing specialist who never sees a patient and the clinical coordinator who sees dozens. Because in healthcare, everyone plays a role in the patient experience — and the way we lead people determines the care those people deliver. If you've ever wondered whether your words are adding to your team or subtracting from them, this episode is your answer.

Recorded live at SocialPacific 2025 in North Vancouver, Ben Wise and Darren Chiu, co-founders of Captivate, join guest host Rachel Thexton to explore the art and science of human behavior.Captivate translates academic psychology into practical tools for marketers, sales teams, and leaders, helping them communicate in ways that actually move people.They unpack why most marketing falls flat by being overly rational, how emotional decision-making really works, and why storytelling, including friction, consequences, and vulnerability, remains one of the most powerful tools in business. Because whether you're selling to consumers or corporations, you're always selling to a human.Produced by TAKT.

Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN   Here are the podcast notes: Churchfront Podcast — Erwin McManus Lead Pastor, Mosaic Church (Los Angeles) | Author, The Seven Frequencies of Communication Guest background: Erwin McManus has led Mosaic in LA for 35 years, building a congregation averaging in its twenties across 40+ nationalities. He's also an author, speaker, and has been a longtime participant in the Global Leadership Summit at Willow Creek. Key Topics What holds church leaders back The most common internal limitation isn't skill or resources — it's the lack of felt permission. Pastors are often communal and loyal by nature, which also makes them dependent on someone saying "it's okay to go for it." The church culture tends to withhold permission rather than grant it. This is a big reason conferences are so magnetic — they're not primarily about information, they're about permission receiving. People go to be in a room where they feel free to dream, risk, and believe. Erwin said a large part of his life's work has been giving people permission: to dream big, to risk, to try low-percentage ideas, and to fail without that defining their worth. Giving permission downward in the org chart Leaders often receive permission at a conference and then come back and tell their team what to do — which is not the same as giving permission. True permission-giving means creating space for people to grow, develop, dream, and execute in their own way. Key principle: hold tight to where you're going, hold loosely to how you get there. Someone can execute at a high level and still do it differently than you would — and that's okay. "It's All About People" vs. "You Can't Take Everyone With You" (from Mind Shift)McManus intentionally places these as Chapter 1 and Chapter 3 as a juxtaposition. Most leaders lean hard toward one and neglect the other. His advice: read both, figure out which one resonates more, then go apply the other one. That tension is where relational elegance lives. When people leave, they attack your character At Mosaic, after major style and culture shifts, the people who left rarely said "I don't like the music." They attacked Erwin's character because it made them the hero of their story. He found the exceptions refreshing — the people who were honest ("the church is too young," "too diverse," "too evangelistic") made it easy to respond. His approach: when you bring clarity as a leader, you're giving people the gift of choice. If they hate who you are now, they're going to really hate who you're becoming — so this is actually a good time to part ways. "If you're everything, you're nothing." The white interior at Mosaic Hollywood During the 18-month pandemic shutdown, Aaron McManus pitched painting everything white — stage, speakers, walls. No precedent existed for it. The idea was: when people come back, we don't want them having a nostalgicexperience — we want them going forward. The white space became a blank canvas for projection and lighting in every direction. It's now been widely imitated. (They did the same thing at their current Pasadena theater space, which was the longtime home of the Rocky Horror Picture Show.) The Seven Frequencies of Communication The seven frequencies are a framework for understanding how people communicate and how they're heard — not just outwardly but internally, since your inner voice shapes the health of your soul. The frequencies: Commander, Challenger, Healer, Motivator, Professor, Seer, Maven. This isn't a static identity — it's a dynamic range you can access. The goal is mastery over your frequencies, not just defaulting to your primary one. Every frequency also has a shadow — the dark version of the same trait. Commander → Dictator. Seer → Perfectionist. Challenger → Manipulator. Motivator → Performer. We tend to access our shadows with zero effort and have to work to access the authentic frequency. That's true of all positive human characteristics: courage, forgiveness, integrity all require work. Their negative counterparts (fear, bitterness, dishonesty) require nothing. Practical example: Erwin's wife Kim is a Commander. 42 years of "turn off the lights and lock the doors" instead of "I love you." He learned to translate that as I love you, keep me safe. His daughter Mariah is a Challenger — she's always trying to elevate him, but it reads as reprimand. Understanding the frequency means getting offended less. Hire for character, not for frequency When Jake asked whether leaders need Commander or Challenger to run a department, Erwin's answer was simple: if the character is right, the frequency will work itself out. A high-Motivator leader who doesn't have Commander will still make people want to achieve for them — and the team will learn to push for clarity on execution. Environmental health matters more than frequency profile. Commanders and competency Commanders have competency as a core value. If you move a Commander into a new role without giving them enough context, resources, and framing, they won't feel like they're being trusted — they'll feel like they're being set up to fail. The key: make sure they feel equipped, not just trusted. "He just wants to make sure he has enough swords." Seers in leadership Many megachurch pastors are Commander-Seer combinations. The risk for Seers is confusing movement with momentum — pivoting sideways to get around an obstacle, while the team thinks the direction has changed entirely. The Seer knows they're still heading north; they forgot to communicate why they went east first. Solution from their team's side: instead of assuming the vision changed, ask "this feels like a direction change — is this a strategic move to get there faster? Help me communicate it well." Churchfront "Captive Consultant" segment Erwin's advice for Churchfront: since they're committed to serving churches exclusively, look for where churches are growing fastest — new residential development, emerging demographics — and think about what a scalable package looks like for smaller churches. The message is too important not to be heard clearly, which makes sound and AV integration genuinely mission-critical work. He also noted that once a building is built, the acoustic future is largely set — making early architectural involvement from integrators essential. Book/Resource mentioned: The Seven Frequencies of Communication — includes an assessment on their website.  Also mentioned: Mind Shift by Erwin McManus.

Are you being micromanaged—or is there something else really going on behind your boss's constant check-ins? If you've ever felt frustrated, second-guessed, or slowed down by a boss who keeps hovering over your work, you're not alone. But here's the twist: sometimes what feels like micromanaging is actually stress, pressure, or performance concerns you may not see. In this episode, you'll learn how to step back, assess what's really happening, and use specific phrases to shift the dynamic—so you can reduce overwhelm, build trust, and create a more collaborative relationship with your manager. By listening, you'll learn how to: Diagnose whether you're truly being micromanaged or if performance gaps or external pressures are driving the behavior Start a calm, productive conversation using practical phrases that lower defensiveness and increase influence Propose clear solutions that give your boss confidence while giving you the autonomy you need to do your best work Press play now to get the exact words you can use this week to stop feeling micromanaged and start building the trust and freedom you've been wanting at work. Check out: 02:44 – The three powerful self-reflection questions to ask before confronting a micromanaging boss (this changes the entire tone of the conversation). 07:12 – The first conversation-starting phrase: how to open the discussion in a way that builds trust instead of triggering defensiveness. 10:10 – The “I'm hearing… Can I commit to…” framework that helps you propose a solution meeting both your needs and your manager's. 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send a textYou were handed a decision you did not make. You have the title and the responsibility, but you did not have a seat at the table when the final call was made. Now, you are expected to be the face of a change you did not choose. The pressure is quiet but heavy: if this goes well, leadership notices. If it goes sideways, your team loses trust.In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton shows you how to lead change with clarity and confidence, even when you were not the architect of the plan. You will get a five-part framework to communicate any change clearly, specific language for handling resistance, and a strategic approach to advocating upward that positions you as a solution-oriented leader.WHAT THIS EPISODE IS ABOUTIf you are a woman in leadership, you are not stuck: you are positioned. Kele breaks down the critical mindset shift from being a super multitasker (the person who just delivers the news) to being a strategic leader (the meaning maker).Your team is asking three questions during any change: What is happening? What does it mean for me? Can I trust the person telling me this? You may not control the first answer, but you have enormous influence over the second and third.This episode introduces the Clarity Bridge Framework. This structure builds a bridge between the decision at the top and the reality on the ground. You will also find specific scripts for handling three types of resistance and learning how to advocate upward without sounding negative or resistant.WHAT YOU WILL LEARNThe Clarity Bridge Framework: Five parts to communicate any reorg, process shift, or strategic pivot in a way that builds trust.Managing Resistance: How to handle The Skeptic, The Worrier, and The Quiet Disengager with language that acknowledges emotion without the venting spirals.Advocating Upward: A three-part structure to signal alignment, share impact in concrete terms, and offer options to senior leadership.The Power of Predictability: Why "What stays the same / What is changing" is the most important anchor you can give your team during a transition.The 10% Rule: One question that moves a team member from overthinking to problem-solving immediately.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEYour Action Step: Choose one change your team is navigating right now. Use the Clarity Bridge structure in your next email or check-in.Ignite Your Leadership Power Accelerator: If you are ready to stop being at the mercy of everyone else's to-do list and start designing your move to senior leadership, join the March Waitlist Here.ABOUT YOUR HOSTKele Belton is a leadership communication coach and executive presence strategist who specializes in helping women leaders stop waiting for permission to lead at the level they are already operating at. Through the Communicate to Lead podcast and her high-level coaching programs, Kele provides the actionable frameworks needed to navigate the "impossible middle" and design a move to senior leadership.CONNECT WITH KELE FOR MORE LEADERSHIP INSIGHTS:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com

Leadership today can feel like a constant contradiction. Be strong but soft. Move fast but do not burn people out. In this conversation, Stephanie sits down with leadership speaker and author Selena Rezvani to unpack what modern leadership really requires and why so much of the old advice no longer works. They talk about how to move from being the “answer holder” to a true resourcer, how to lower stress instead of amplifying it, and how to create psychological safety without sacrificing results. This is a practical, grounded conversation for women leading teams while also leading full lives. This episode covers: Why the old “never let them see you sweat” leadership model is outdated How to shift from oracle to resourcer and build your team's confidence What psychological safety actually looks like in practice How to push back on fake urgency and protect your team's focus Meeting habits that build engagement instead of draining energy How to respond to quiet quitting with curiosity instead of judgment Why modeling boundaries as a leader changes workplace culture Books Mentioned Quick Leadership — Selena Rezvani Quick Confidence — Selena Rezvani Rest Is Resistance — Tricia Hersey If you are leading a team, building a business, or trying to create a healthier culture where performance and humanity can coexist, this episode will give you practical shifts you can use immediately.https://www.patreon.com/womendontdothat Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/womendontdothat/ TikTok- http://www.tiktok.com/@womendontdothat Blog- https://www.womendontdothat.com/blog Podcast- https://www.womendontdothat.com/podcast Newsletter- https://www.beaconnorthstrategies.com/contactwww.womendontdothat.com YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@WOMENdontDOthat How to find Stephanie Mitton: Twitter/X- https://twitter.com/StephanieMitton LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemitton/ beaconnorthstrategies.com TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@stephmitton Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemitton/ Interested in sponsorship? Contact us at hello@womendontdothat.com Produced by Duke & Castle Our Latest Blog: https://www.womendontdothat.com/post/i-don-t-do-resolutions-i-do-this-perfect-for-busy-women Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if your calendar isn't a badge of honor but a map of wasted potential? We sit down with Rebecca Hinds, PhD and author of Your Best Meeting Ever, to challenge the idea that more meetings mean more value—and to rebuild meeting culture from the ground up. Rebecca unpacks the visibility bias that equates busyness with status, explains why meetings multiply when clarity disappears, and shows leaders how to design time together like a product with purpose, users, and measurable outcomes.We dive into the 4D rule—only meet to decide, debate, discuss, or develop—and how that single filter slashes status updates and nudges real work back to async. You'll learn why eight is a magic ceiling for decision meetings, how to include voices without overinviting through pre-reads and transparent notes, and the art of closing the loop so people feel heard even when their idea isn't acted on yet. Rebecca shares counterintuitive time design: odd-start meetings to beat Parkinson's Law, strategic buffers to prevent “meeting hangovers,” and the cultural signal sent when you end early because the purpose is done. Ready for a reset? This episode explores “meeting doomsday,” a 48-hour calendar cleanse where every meeting must earn its place. The biggest gains come from small redesigns like shorter meetings and fewer attendees. You'll also learn how to use ROTI feedback, clearer agendas, and technology the right way to improve focus and decision-making. If you're tired of back-to-back Zooms and wondering when real work happens, this conversation gives you a practical blueprint. You'll gain clear norms, language to protect your team's time, and leadership moves that turn meetings into a competitive advantage. Subscribe, sSend a textMake your podcast work for your business - Listen to Podcasting AmplifiedPractical strategies to turn your podcast into a business growth engine.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Summary:Political speechwriter and author Simon Lancaster breaks down how leaders and speakers win minds using rhetoric, metaphor and emotional language. We explore why corporate jargon kills trust, how metaphors shape beliefs, and simple persuasion tools speakers can use without sounding manipulative.In this episode, you'll learn:What rhetoric is and why it matters for modern speakersWhy emotion often persuades more than logicHow metaphor shapes perception, behaviour and beliefWhy corporate language dehumanises and disengages audiencesPractical ways to become “metaphor aware” and communicate more humanlyThe responsibility leaders have when using persuasive languageMemorable ideas and quotes:“Leadership is an emotional contract.”“Metaphor speaks to the subconscious.”The “company as car” metaphor and why it backfires“Rhetoric is morally neutral. Like a pen, it can be used for good or bad.”Resources mentioned:Simon Lancaster, Winning MindsSimon Lancaster, The Expert's Guide to SpeechwritingSimon Lancaster, You Are Not HumanBook recommendation: The Queen of Bloody Everything by Joanna NadinConnect with Simon:Website: BespokeSpeeches.comWatch Simon's TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/bGBamfWasNQCHAPTERS: 00:00 Welcome Back: Why This Classic Episode Still Matters01:14 Meet Simon Lancaster: 20 Years in Political Speechwriting02:31 From Songwriting to Speeches: Emotion, Metaphor & Simplicity04:34 What Is Rhetoric? Ancient Persuasion Tools (Rule of Three & More)07:43 Why Rhetoric Isn't Taught (and Why That's Dangerous)09:15 Rhetoric in Modern Politics: Boris Johnson, Virtues & Moral Neutrality11:17 What Makes a Bad Speaker? A Critique of Keir Starmer's Delivery13:04 Leadership Is a Feeling: Creating Tribe, Trust & Momentum15:42 Inside a Speechwriter's World: Process, Voice-Decoding & Client Sessions19:04 Winning the Instinctive Mind: Making People Feel Safe (Obama vs Trump)22:01 Different Styles, Same Impact: Barack vs Michelle + Biden & Harris24:52 Metaphor as the Ultimate Persuasion Tool25:42 Why Companies Talk Like Cars (and Why It Dehumanises Staff)27:04 Switching to Human Metaphors: Family, Journeys & Belonging at Work27:31 Politics as Metaphor: Brexit ‘Family' vs...

Speaking honestly at work can create pressure and relational strain, especially when your nervous system prepares for impact. This episode explores why over-explaining isn't failure, but a signal of identity-level misalignment, and how steadiness begins to return.Many high-performing professionals know the experience of telling the truth while their body tightens first.The words are clear, but the chest constricts.The thought is steady, but the urge to explain takes over.Not because the truth is uncertain, but because the nervous system is preparing for how it might land.In this episode of The Recalibration, we explore what it means to speak honestly at work without bracing or over-explaining.This conversation is not about better communication techniques or saying less for the sake of efficiency. It's about understanding why capable, responsible people learned to manage impact in the first place, and how that strategy can quietly drain energy over time.Throughout the episode, we gently explore:Why over-explaining is often a nervous system response, not a communication problemHow the body tightens in anticipation of misunderstanding or relational disruptionThe difference between clarity and protection, and how the body senses it firstWhy reinforcement is not about mastery, but about helping the nervous system feel safe enough to stay presentHow internal authority begins to stabilize when truth is allowed to be simpleWe also name something many people feel but rarely say out loud: when you stop bracing and over-explaining, connection can feel awkward at first. There may be less immediate feedback, fewer cues that tell you how you're being received. That doesn't mean you're losing connection. It means the way connection is forming is changing.This is not mindset work.It's not productivity advice.And it's not about pushing yourself to be more confident.Identity-Level Recalibration works at the root, helping the nervous system and identity come back into alignment so honesty no longer requires protection.Today's Micro Recalibration:The next time you notice the urge to over-explain, pause and ask quietly:“Am I adding clarity, or am I bracing?”No fixing.No forcing.Just noticing the moment you usually rush past.Explore Identity-Level Recalibration→ Join the next Friday Recalibration Live experience → Take your listening deeper! Subscribe to The Weekly Recalibration Companion to receive reflections and extensions to each week's podcast episodes. → Follow Julie Holly on LinkedIn for more recalibration insights → Schedule a conversation with Julie to see if The Recalibration is a fit for you → Download the Misalignment Audit → Subscribe to the weekly newsletter → Books to read (Tidy categories on Amazon- I've read/listened to each recommended title.) → One link to all things

What happens when an engineer, executive leader, and yoga instructor come together in one person?Transformation.In this powerful episode, Nicole Greer sits down with seasoned operations leader and business coach Luca Romano to explore what it truly means to build a vibrant culture — especially in high-pressure manufacturing environments. After experiencing burnout and a life-changing spinal cord injury, Luca redefined leadership for himself. Blending his engineering mindset with mindfulness and emotional intelligence, he now leads with clarity, courage, and purpose.Vibrant Highlights:00:02:33 — Vibrant culture is positive energy directed toward progress. Energy spent on fear, politics, or self-protection drains results. Culture puts people at the center and aligns behavior around shared values.00:14:00 — Courage is required to move beyond people-pleasing. It is better to fail on your own conviction than succeed while betraying your values. Fear-based leadership wastes energy and undermines performance.00:22:00 — Culture drives measurable business results. After implementing shared core values, structured communication, and EOS, on-time delivery improved from 51% to 91%.00:24:20 — Training is an investment, not a cost. Skipping development to “save time” only postpones problems. Investing in people strengthens retention and long-term performance.00:35:30 — Coaching in and coaching out requires clarity. When behavioral expectations are clearly defined, difficult conversations become structured and productive — sometimes separation becomes a gift.Connect with Luca:Website: manufacturing-coach.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luca-romano-mba-041b531/FB: https://www.facebook.com/luca.romano.505512IG: https://www.instagram.com/floaterone74/#Ready to build a culture where people feel valued, energized, and committed?Bring Nicole Greer, The Vibrant Coach, to your leadership team, organization, or conference to ignite clarity, accountability, energy, and results.Visit: vibrantculture.comEmail: nicole@vibrantculture.comWatch Nicole's TEDx Talk: vibrantculture.com/videos

Anna has spent her entire career building brands. Her passion, insight, and desire to understand every nuance of each business she works on have resulted in close relationships and brand-defining work. Before founding FEARLESS Strategic Marketing, she was a Client Leader at Leo Burnett for nine years and at Energy BBDO and BBDO Worldwide for nineteen years, leading North American and Global Brands.She has worked across multiple categories and with brands at every size and stage of growth, partnering with PepsiCo Food & Beverages, Starbucks, SodaStream, KIND Snacks, Frito Lay, Procter & Gamble, MARS, Nintendo, Kohl's, Ulta Beauty, The Chicago Cubs, and more.She has a particular passion for challenger brands, which she defines as brands with ambitions bigger than their budgets. Anna has won every creative and effectiveness award multiple times, including Cannes Lions, Effie's, D&AD's, Emmy's, Clio's, WARC's, and The Jay Chiat Awards.Throughout her career, Anna has been known for being a trusted, valued, strategic advisor to the CMO and CEO, for building powerful, distinctive brands that drive long-term growth, and for creating genuine, authentic partnerships and friendships with those she works with while also having some fun along the way.  Anna lives outside of Chicago in the northwest suburbs with her husband Tom of 20 years and their three sons, Roman, 18, Leo, 17, Dominic, 14, and her dog Bandit (yes, she is outnumbered!). Thank you for listening to "Can You Hear Me?". If you enjoyed our show, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform.Stay connected with us:Follow us on LinkedIn!Follow our co-host Eileen Rochford on Linkedin!Follow our co-host Rob Johnson on Linkedin!

Why curiosity is the best way to start a conversation.No matter how wide political, cultural, and generational divides seem to grow, Fareed Zakaria is convinced: communication has the power to connect.Zakaria is the host of CNN's Fareed Zakaria GPS, a Washington Post columnist, and author of Age of Revolutions, a book about the seismic societal shifts that define modern history. In his decades of translating complex geopolitical issues for broad audiences, he's found the key to navigating change and conflict. “The most important thing is being genuinely curious,” he says, “genuinely believing that everybody has a story to tell. Everybody has something to teach you. Everybody has a lesson you can learn.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Zakaria and host Matt Abrahams explore how curiosity opens the door to conversation. Whether we're communicating across ideological divides or bridging gaps between our past, present, and future, Zakaria shows why maintaining connection starts with a willingness to learn.Episode Reference Links:Fareed ZakariaFareed's Book: Age of Revolutions Ep.161 Do Your Homework: Know What to Say by Knowing Who You're Talking To Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:27) - The “Age of Revolutions” (04:33) - Do Facts Still Matter? (06:04) - How To Persuade (08:08) - On-Camera Communication (10:36) - Making Radical Ideas Mainstream (12:05) - When To Change Your Mind (13:32) - Helping Adolescents Communicate (19:15) - The Final Three Questions (23:02) - 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. 

Now it's time for "Did You See”. Where we take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Gina London, Leadership Communications expert and Sunday Independent Columnist.

Now it's time for "Did You See”. Where we take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Gina London, Leadership Communications expert and Sunday Independent Columnist.

In this special edition of the Darden Admissions podcast, we share a recent installment in our ongoing ‘Office Hours' faculty spotlight series, a conversation with Professors June West and Steve Soltis. West and Soltis teach classes across Darden's MBA formats, including Leadership Communication, and they are also co-founders of the Darden Leadership Communication Council. Their podcast series, CEO Voices: Leading with Communication, examines the communication that enables transformational leadership. We talk with them about their backgrounds, what led them to Darden, the importance of Leadership Communications in an MBA curriculum, recent cases they've developed for their elective courses and more. For more insights, tips, and stories about the Darden experience, be sure to check out the Discover Darden Admissions blog and follow us on Instagram @dardenmba.

In this special edition of the Darden Admissions podcast, we share a recent installment in our ongoing ‘Office Hours' faculty spotlight series, a conversation with Professors June West and Steve Soltis. West and Soltis teach classes across Darden's MBA formats, including Leadership Communication, and they are also co-founders of the Darden Leadership Communication Council. Their podcast series, CEO Voices: Leading with Communication, examines the communication that enables transformational leadership. We talk with them about their backgrounds, what led them to Darden, the importance of Leadership Communications in an MBA curriculum, recent cases they've developed for their elective courses and more. For more insights, tips, and stories about the Darden experience, be sure to check out the Discover Darden Admissions blog and follow us on Instagram @dardenmba.  

Why clarity and authenticity matter more than ever in modern communication.Clear communication in the age of likes, LLMs, and constant noise isn't about talking more. For Nick Thompson, it's about being unmistakably clear and unmistakably yourself.Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic and former editor-in-chief of Wired, has spent his career shaping stories that hold attention. “Clear beats clever,” he says, stressing that authenticity and specificity are what make messages land. “If you can get across what you're really trying to say— if you can say it honestly, specifically, and ideally briefly—that's good. And if you can say it in a way that feels like you, that's great.”Beyond journalism, Thompson is an elite marathon runner, ranking among the top competitive runners in the world, an identity that, for him, isn't separate from writing or leadership but deeply connected to it. “[Running] has taught me all kinds of habits of mind and discipline and pacing,” he says, “There are all kinds of lessons from the sport that apply to my business life.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Thompson joins host Matt Abrahams to share how great communicators craft “sticky” ideas without chasing soundbites. From practical editorial tests to the importance of editing, structure, and authenticity, Thompson offers a roadmap for communication that doesn't just get noticed but lasts.Episode Reference Links:Nick ThompsonNick's Book: The Running GroundEp.183 Rethinks: How Anxiety Can Fuel Better 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 >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (04:10) - Good Communication in the Modern Day (04:52) - Finding Your Authentic Voice (05:59) - The Power of Editing (07:43) - Reading Your Writing Out Loud (09:36) - How to Create “Sticky” Content (10:58) - AI's Role in Journalism & Communication (13:01) - Using AI in Daily Life (13:45) - Running As Meditation (17:22) - What Running Teaches About Simplicity (18:57) - 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.This episode is sponsored by Grammarly. Let Grammarly take the busywork off your plate so you can focus on high-impact work. Download Grammarly for free today Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

When organizations face crises, change, or uncertainty, many leaders feel pressure to withdraw, control the narrative, or pretend they have all the answers.Unfortunately, those behaviors often become the very trust breakers that damage teams and fuel fear.In this episode of Leading Through Crisis, Céline Williams sits down with leadership development expert and bestselling author Amy Riley to explore how leaders can build trust during uncertain times—even when they don't know what comes next. They discuss why transparency matters, how silence creates stories, and what it truly means to lead with connection instead of control.This conversation is essential for leaders, managers, and business owners navigating disruption, change, or high-pressure environments.

What if the real thing killing productivity on your team isn't laziness, workload, or attitude—but unspoken expectations no one ever clarified? You know the frustration. A meeting goes sideways. A teammate feels disrespected. You're stuck in a circular debate about something that “should be obvious.” Meanwhile, resentment builds and momentum stalls. Whether it's camera-on norms, unclear directives from your boss, or two people interpreting the same instruction differently, the lack of clarity quietly drains morale and performance. If you've ever felt like you missed the company-issued “secret decoder ring,” this episode shows you how to decode expectations, reduce conflict, and lead with confidence instead of walking on eggshells. In this episode, you'll learn how to: Spot when unclear norms—not bad intentions—are killing productivity and causing unnecessary conflict Use practical, powerful phrases to turn tension into alignment and shared agreement Lead clarity conversations with confidence so you build influence, trust, and stronger team performance Press play now and walk away with specific words you can use this week to eliminate confusion and reclaim the productivity your team deserves. Check out: (04:33) – The first powerful phrase: “It seems to me we see this differently.” Learn how simply naming the difference can immediately de-escalate conflict and surface hidden expectations. (06:34) – “Let's decide how to decide.” A practical framework for preventing circular arguments and creating clear, shared agreements—especially when no formal authority is defined. (08:24) – How to handle conflicting interpretations with a colleague without “going around” them—plus the respectful phrase that protects trust while getting the clarity you need. 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three Operating Principles from This Conversation 1. White space is now dynamic, not staticWhite space used to be analyzed every 18 months. Today, Ryan is seeing strategy cycles compress to quarterly—or even monthly—reviews. Not because leaders love churn, but because technology and culture are moving too fast for set-and-forget thinking.White space isn't always a massive blue ocean. More often, it's a small, highly specific intersection of your value proposition, your customer's real needs, and what you can actually execute well, right now. 2. AI works best when it supports judgment — not when it replaces itRyan offers one of the clearest, most useful frames I've heard for AI and small business:Don't ask AI for big, sweeping answers.Ask it a series of small questions you can common-sense check, and let those answers ladder up.This takes longer. It requires thinking. And it keeps humans in the loop.That matters because for a small business, one AI mistake isn't annoying; it's expensive. One missed email, one misrouted opportunity, one wrong automation can cost real money.Interestingly, Ryan is also seeing large corporations pull back from “AI everywhere” toward controlled automation and fixed workflows. The lesson? We're not at the point where we can responsibly turn everything over, and pretending we are is risky. 3. Community is now a strategic advantageRyan makes a compelling case that small business owners should be in their local business community at least once every two weeks, not to network performatively, but to gut-check reality, compare notes, and stay human.Some of the most valuable insights right now are coming from people with just a few years of experience, because they're in it, learning fast, and willing to share what's actually working.You never stop learning. And you don't need decades of experience to contribute. You just need a clear point of view and an open mind. The Bigger PictureDespite uncertainty, Ryan is seeing more optimism in business than he has in years. Not blind optimism, earned optimism.As he puts it, we have more control than we realized last year. But control only matters if we use it.This is a conversation about:Staying human in an increasingly automated worldUsing powerful tools wisely instead of stupidlyShowing up—locally, imperfectly, consistently—for the world we want to createWe're the ones we've been waiting for. Connect with Ryan EdwardsCamino Five: camino5.comRyan Edwards on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ryanedwardsConnect with John Batesjohnbates.comexecutivespeakingsuccess.comlivelikealeader.show This episode makes no difference without you. If you enjoyed the show, please leave a five-star rating and share it with someone who's navigating leadership, strategy, or AI right now. That's how we learn from — and support — each other on the journey. Thank you! ----- Ryan Edwards is the co-founder of Camino5, a strategy consultancy built on a simple belief: insights create strategy and strategy creates growth.With more than 15 years of experience across digital, brand, and customer experience, Ryan's career began in web design and programming before evolving into creative and CX leadership roles. Over the last decade, his work has focused on understanding how people actually engage with brands across platforms, moments, and decisions, turning that understanding into strategies that move businesses forward.At Camino5, Ryan leads work through Paired Perspective™, the firm's approach to connecting customer behavior across a fragmented landscape. The goal isn't channel optimization in isolation, but strategic clarity that enables speed, alignment, and action.Ryan has partnered with global brands including Disney, P&G, NBCUniversal, Unilever, Chase, Nike, and Kaiser Permanente, as well as high-growth startups and emerging category leaders. His work has supported multiple unicorns, driven category-defining launches, and contributed to research that led to $20M-per-month business turnarounds.Ryan works with companies that believe strategy should create momentum and that growth starts with seeing the customer clearly. --------John Bates provides 1:1 Executive Communications Coaching, both in-person and online. He also gets 92+ Net Promoter Scores for his large and small group leadership development trainings at organizations like Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Google, Intuit, Boston Scientific, and many more. Find more at https://executivespeakingsuccess.com.Sign up for his weekly micro-trainings for free at https://johnbates.com/mini-trainings and create a great leadership communications habit that makes you the kind of leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and connection.

Grab my book Discernment here Before you ever try to “sell” anything… before you try to impress someone… before you try to win a room — what state are you in? In this segment with Michael Bernoff, we talk about what really happens in the first three minutes of meeting someone. It's not about scripts. It's not about charisma. It's about awareness, outcome, and control. If you want to communicate at a higher level in business, relationships, or leadership — this one is for you. Watch the full episode here:

Grab my book Discernment here Before you ever try to “sell” anything… before you try to impress someone… before you try to win a room — what state are you in? In this segment with Michael Bernoff, we talk about what really happens in the first three minutes of meeting someone. It's not about scripts. It's not about charisma. It's about awareness, outcome, and control. If you want to communicate at a higher level in business, relationships, or leadership — this one is for you. Watch the full episode here:

Most leaders don't struggle with motivation—they struggle with clarity. In this episode, we break down why teams miss expectations even when goals seem “clear,” and how leaders unintentionally create confusion, overwhelm, and misalignment.This conversation dives deep into the four root causes behind execution failure: unclear goals, vague expectations, unconfirmed commitment, and delayed accountability. You'll learn practical leadership frameworks to replace assumption with alignment—without micromanaging or becoming reactive.What You'll Learn: • Why silence and nodding are not signs of agreement • How to set goals that actually drive results • The four elements every clear expectation must include • How to confirm understanding and commitment—before execution fails • Why accountability should feel fair, predictable, and supportiveKey Takeaway: Great leadership isn't about saying things better—it's about confirming they were understood.FREE Resource Mentioned: • Leadership Clarity Toolkit - DOWNLOADCall to Action: Download the Leadership Clarity Toolkit and start leading with precision, confidence, and consistency. Subscribe, follow, and share this episode with leaders who want fewer surprises and stronger execution.Podcast Links:

How to tap the full power of your voice.Being present in communication isn't just mental. It's about the physical energy you bring into a space — particularly, says Patsy Rodenburg, the presence of your voice.“The physical presence of the human being is the most important thing we have,” says Rodenburg. As a world-renowned expert in voice, speech, and presentation, she has helped everyone from stage actors to prime ministers hone their speaking and awaken the power and presence of their voice. “The vast majority of people are born with amazing voices, and somewhere along the line, they lose them. My job is to return people to their full power in their body, in their breath, in their voice, in their ability to speak in an exciting way.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Rodenburg joins host Matt Abrahams to discuss embodied communication. From breathing techniques and managing tension to intentionally inhabiting space, Rodenburg's insights reveal how to communicate with greater power, presence, and the potency of your voice.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Patsy RodenburgPatsy's Books: Presence / Power PresentationEp.137 When Words Aren't Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal 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 >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:56) - Foundational Voice Principles (05:58) - Activating Breath Through The Body (08:19) - Why Most Voices Just Need Use (11:49) - Defining Presence (16:02) - Using Space To Communicate (19:24) - The Final Three Questions (23:50) - 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.This episode is sponsored by Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/tftsJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

What if saying no at work could actually increase your business worth—even when the request comes straight from your boss? If your plate is already overflowing, you know the tension: you want to be seen as collaborative and capable, but every “yes” pulls you further from what really matters. This episode speaks directly to that daily struggle, giving you practical language to protect your priorities, reduce stress, and still strengthen your influence at work. By listening, you'll walk away with: Clear, respectful phrases to say no without damaging relationships or credibility A simple framework that helps you balance priorities while staying human-centered Confidence to handle high-stakes conversations—including how to say no to your boss—without second-guessing yourself Hit play now and steal the exact words you can use today to say no in a way that builds trust, focus, and long-term impact. Check out: 00:50 – Why learning to say no is a leadership skill that boosts focus, influence, and results 02:28 – The mindset shift that reframes every “yes” as a hidden “no” (and why this changes everything) 08:54 – Exactly how to say no to your boss using connection, clarity, curiosity, and commitment 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we covered: 1) Pete's 4-part framework for modern leadershipPete lays out what he sees as “endemic” to great leadership today:Master cash flow (because nothing survives without it)Know whether you're a visionary or an integrator (and don't pretend you're both)Be the master motivator (the era of fear-based leadership is over)Own the culture (and use story as one of your most powerful tools to shape it) 2) Storytelling as culture-engineeringWe dig into why stories are more than “nice to have.” Stories become the myths that create the mythology of a company—how values become behavior at scale. And if you want to influence culture, yesterday was easier than today. 3) The next AI infrastructure shift: from training to inferencingPete breaks down the difference between:Training LLMs (building the model)Inferencing (asking the model questions in real time—what most people experience as “prompting”)Then he takes it further: the next wave isn't human inferencing—it's machine inferencing. Robots, cars, devices, sensors… constantly asking “what do I do next?” at massive scale. 4) Why “edge” data centers are coming backPete predicts we'll move away from only massive, centralized “mega” campuses toward distributed, high-performance data centers near the edge—“in every town,” similar to telecom “points of presence” in the 1990s. That's the strategic thesis behind Gray Wolf Data Centers.   5) The modern mystic: mind, body, and the inner gamePete shares a candid chapter of his own life—anxiety, therapy, CBT, and a pivotal lesson: don't make the events you can't control your “problems.” He connects this to resilience through sleep, health practices, and the belief that we can reshape the mind through neuroplasticity—and even how he sees us as “quantum beings,” responsible for how we observe and choose our reality. 6) A hopeful thesis: “good AI” vs “bad AI” + post-scarcityWe touch the fear many people carry (yes, I mention growing up in the Terminator era), but Pete offers a provocative counter: the way we beat bad AI is with good AI—models designed around human flourishing and shared broadly as a public service. He believes we're headed through disruption toward post-scarcity, and that our descendants will wonder why we didn't support each other sooner. 7) The closing leadership message: “we are all one”Pete's final note is the one that matters most to me: we're all connected—and we're here for each other. In my book, that's not just a spiritual idea; it's a leadership standard. ----- Resources Mentioned:Pete's company: Gray Wolf Data CentersPete's book: Living in Bliss: Achieve a Balanced Existence of Body, Mind and SpiritPete's site: PeteSacco.com (signed copies + meditation materials)Dr. David Burns: The Feel Good HandbookDan Sullivan: Who Not How (and other referenced works)Peter Diamandis: longevity reference ----- If you want to apply this immediately:Ask yourself: Am I the visionary or the integrator here? (And who do I need as my counterbalance?)  Choose one cultural value you care about—and tell a story that proves it.  If AI is making you anxious, zoom out: are you preparing for the training era, or the inferencing era?  ----- https://petesacco.comPete Sacco is a visionary entrepreneur, technologist, and modern-day mystic who blends conscious leadership with breakthrough innovation. As the founder of multiple ventures—including PTS Data Center Solutions, INTUVA, GRID7, InstaGuardIP, and Gray Wolf Data Centers—Pete has led transformative initiatives across AI, energy, blockchain, and digital infrastructure. His journey from electrical engineer to spiritual author and advisor reflects a rare fusion of high performance and inner awakening. Pete is the author of Living in Bliss: Achieve a Balanced Existence of Body, Mind, and Spirit, a guide for high achievers seeking fulfillment beyond success. A finalist for Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year, Pete holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and serves on the advisory board of its School of Computer Sciences and Engineering. Based in New Jersey, he helps purpose-driven professionals unlock clarity, vitality, and purpose—one system, one person, and one moment at a time.  --------John Bates provides 1:1 Executive Communications Coaching, both in-person and online. He also gets 92+ Net Promoter Scores for his large and small group leadership development trainings at organizations like Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Google, Intuit, Boston Scientific, and many more. Find more at https://executivespeakingsuccess.com.Sign up for his weekly micro-trainings for free at https://johnbates.com/mini-trainings and create a great leadership communications habit that makes you the kind of leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and connection.

Marci Pelzer is Director of Corporate Affairs at Worley, where she brings more than 20 years of expertise in strategic communications.Marci has held key leadership positions at Rockwell Automation, SC Johnson, Time Warner Cable and ManpowerGroup. She is a proud graduate of Marquette University and the Kellogg School of Management.Outside of work, she enjoys reading, traveling, volunteering and pursuing her passion project, What Dan Read.Marci resides in Milwaukee. Thank you for listening to "Can You Hear Me?". If you enjoyed our show, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform.Stay connected with us:Follow us on LinkedIn!Follow our co-host Eileen Rochford on Linkedin!Follow our co-host Rob Johnson on Linkedin!

The communications landscape is changing fast—and so are the expectations placed on communications leaders. In this episode of Can You Hear Me?, co-hosts Eileen Rochford and Rob Johnson sit down with Marci Pelzer, Corporate Affairs Director at Worley, to explore The Future of Comms and how professionals can adapt, expand their influence, and lead in an evolving business environment. Thank you for listening to "Can You Hear Me?". If you enjoyed our show, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Stay connected with us: - Follow us on LinkedIn! - Follow our co-host Eileen Rochford on Linkedin! - Follow our co-host Rob Johnson on Linkedin!  

How “spaciousness” helps teams move beyond busywork — and build the conditions for honest conversation.“We're just so busy right now” is one of the most common reasons cultures don't change — and it's exactly what Megan Reitz set out to understand. In her research, she describes two modes of attention at work: doing mode, where focus narrows to tasks, control, and quick progress, and spacious mode, where attention expands, insight emerges, and real connection becomes possible.Reitz is a leadership researcher whose work explores how people speak up, listen well, and create environments where others can be heard — because, as she puts it, “how you show up affects the voices of the people around you.” When teams are anxious or rushed, attention tightens and listening gets shallow; when there's more safety and space, people can pause, widen their perspective, and make better choices together.In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Reitz and host Matt Abrahams discuss why organizations get stuck in doing mode and what it takes to build spacious agility. They share practical ways to name spaciousness, strengthen psychological safety, introduce healthy dissonance (even through assigned roles like devil's advocate), and respond in ways that keep people speaking up — not shutting down.Episode Reference Links:Megan ReitzMegan's Book: Speak Out, Listen UpEp.132 Lean Into Failure: How to Make Mistakes That WorkEp.148 Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard Conversations Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:10) - Doing Mode vs. Spacious Mode (02:13) - Building Agility Between Modes (12:56) - Creating Psychological Safety (19:14) - 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.This episode is brought to you by Babbel. Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can get started on your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription.Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

The ability to articulate your thoughts clearly is not just a leadership skill, it's a life skill. In this solo episode, Janet explores why so many intelligent and capable people struggle to be heard, even when they have powerful ideas and deep experience. If you've ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “That's not what I meant,” this episode will resonate deeply.Janet unpacks how clarity is shaped not only by language, but by presence, emotional regulation, and self-trust. In a world of constant noise, rushed meetings, and fragmented attention, learning to communicate with intention can radically change how you're perceived and how you move through life with confidence, credibility, and impact.In this episode:✅ Why clear articulation is a critical but underestimated leadership skill✅ How rambling and overexplaining quietly dilute credibility✅ What neuroscience reveals about clarity and attention✅ The inner roots of effective communication and presence✅ Why knowing your point matters more than knowing your topic✅ Practical strategies to speak with greater impact and confidence✅ How emotional regulation directly affects communication clarity✅ A simple clarity practice to prepare for high-stakes conversationsAbout Janet Ioli:Janet Ioli is a globally recognized executive advisor, coach, and leadership expert with over 25 years of experience developing leaders in Fortune 100 companies and global organizations.She created The Inner Edge—a framework, a movement, and a message that flips leadership from mere success performance to presence; from ego to soul. Through her keynotes, podcast, and programs, Janet helps high-achievers find the one thing that changes everything: the mastery within.Her approach redefines leadership presence—not as polish or tactics, but as the inner steadiness people feel from you and the positive imprint you leave on individuals and organizations.Chapters00:00:00 The Cost of Unclear Articulation00:05:10 Why Rambling Weakens Authority00:09:04 Clarity as Inner LeadershipConnect with Janet Ioli:Website: janetioli.comLinkedin: Janet IoliInstagram: @leadershipcoachjanetIf you want to become more grounded, confident, and aligned with your deeper values in just 21 days, check out Janet Ioli's book Less Ego, More Soul: A Modern Reinvention Guide for Women. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Select “Listen in Apple Podcasts,” then choose the “Ratings & Reviews” tab to share what you think. Produced by Ideablossoms

Key Takeaways from this EpisodeYour digital presence is portable. You may not stay at one company for 30 years, but your platform goes with you — and it compounds over time.Social is a “rented” platform (this is a brilliant point!). Think owned, earned, paid — and rented. Algorithms change, and you don't control the land you're building on.Brands are losing lift; leaders are gaining it. At Qualcomm, Jess saw corporate campaigns decline while executive voices gained traction — because people want a human point of view.LinkedIn is no longer just a resume. Jess shares why it's become a writing platform and an editorial home for experts — not just job seekers.Pick 3–4 narrative themes and repeat them. The strongest executive brands aren't random — they're built on an editorial strategy that consistently returns to a few clear territories.Your voice matters (especially now). Many leaders think they have “nothing to say,” but your experience and point of view are valuable — and the world needs more constructive voices. Addressing Relevant IssuesAlgorithmic amplification and polarization: We discuss how feeds shifted away from chronological and toward “what keeps you engaged,” fueling echo chambers and intensity.The ethical wake-up call of social media: Jess describes the internal pivot moment — realizing the space had become toxic in corners, and questioning how to use her skills more constructively.Mental health and unintended consequences: I reference a stark data point Jess brings up — a 65% increase in the suicide rate for high school girls from 2010 to 2019 — and we talk about responsibility and systems.AI and the rising importance of trust: In an AI-dominated age, credibility, warmth, and real human presence become competitive advantages, not “nice-to-haves.” Next StepsGet Jess's free LinkedIn Audit: Jess offered to review both your profile and your editorial strategy and give actionable next steps. Mention you heard her on Live Like a Leader.Define your 3–4 “narrative pillars.” Decide what you want to be known for — and build content around those themes consistently.Publish what you already say internally. Turn your best internal leadership messages into public leadership content — and let it travel. Learn more about Copilot Communications: https://copilotcommunications.com/Connect with Jess Jensen on LinkedIn: https://us.linkedin.com/in/jessicakjensen ----- Jess Jensen is the founder of Co-pilot Communications, a Portland-based advisory helping bold executives sound like themselves online—clear, confident, and human.After 20 years inside Fortune 100 companies like Microsoft, Qualcomm, Nestlé, and Adidas, Jess left corporate life to help leaders stop playing small and start showing up online as their full selves—story-rich, imperfect, and unapologetically human.  Through sharp messaging, editorial strategy, and smart use of platforms like LinkedIn and podcasting, she helps clients build a digital presence that earns trust, inspires action, and sounds like them. --------John Bates provides 1:1 Executive Communications Coaching, both in-person and online. He also gets 92+ Net Promoter Scores for his large and small group leadership development trainings at organizations like Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Google, Intuit, Boston Scientific, and many more. Find more at https://executivespeakingsuccess.com.Sign up for his weekly micro-trainings for free at https://johnbates.com/mini-trainings and create a great leadership communications habit that makes you the kind of leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and connection.

Send us a textWhen people at work describe you as "the reliable one" or "the person who gets things done," those labels sound like compliments. But if those same descriptions are keeping you from getting promoted, you've been typecast. In this episode, Kele Belton reveals the R.E.F.R.A.M.E. Method, a strategic seven-step process for resetting your professional reputation and repositioning yourself when decision-makers have put you in a box that's too small for where you're headed. You'll learn how to break out of the mental category people have created for you and start being recognized for your full leadership potential.What This Episode Is AboutYou've been exceeding expectations for years, but when leadership roles open up, your name isn't on the list. When strategic projects are assigned, you get the execution work instead of the visioning work. And somehow, you're never part of the "high potential" conversation. In this powerful episode, Kele breaks down why this happens (you've been typecast based on what you do repeatedly) and walks you through the exact strategic process for dismantling the old perception while building a new one. You'll hear the story of a client who transformed from "detail-oriented implementer" to "strategic problem solver" in just one month, and how that shift opened doors to leadership roles she'd been overlooked for.What You'll LearnHow to identify the specific label or box people have unconsciously assigned you at work (and why recognizing this pattern is the first step to breaking free).The R.E.F.R.A.M.E. Method: A complete seven-step framework for strategically repositioning your professional brand when you've been typecast.How to establish your new professional vision by defining the 3-5 specific qualities and capabilities that position you for the role you want next.Strategic opportunity selection: How to say yes to different work (not more work) that showcases your new identity in visible ways.How to amplify your new professional identity through consistent, visible actions that create an undeniable pattern.Why enlisting strategic allies is the most powerful (and most overlooked) step in repositioning yourself, and exactly how to approach these conversations.Mentioned In This EpisodeIgnite Your Leadership Power Accelerator: A 12-week group coaching program for women in middle management ready to step into senior leadership. Launching March 2026. JOIN THE WAITLIST HEREMonday Momentum episodes: Starting February 2nd, 5-minute unfiltered leadership strategies every Monday, plus deep-dive episodes every Thursday.About Your HostKele Belton is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and speaker who specializes in helping women leaders transition from execution-focused roles to recognized leadership positions. Through her podcast "Communicate to Lead" and her coaching programs, Kele provides practical frameworks and actionable strategies that help high-performing women step into senior leadership without sacrificing their well-being.Connect with Kele for more leadership insightsWebsite: www.thetailoredapproach.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach.com

In this Your Health University episode, Jamie sits down with Colin Stevens, Director of Engagement at Your Health, for a practical and honest conversation about communication—what it is, why it breaks down, and how leaders can immediately improve it. Colin reframes communication as understanding, not just delivery, explains why tone is the packaging that determines whether a message gets opened, and explores how ego blocks empathy in moments of conflict. The episode ends with a simple, powerful challenge: if you want to elevate your career and relationships, start by becoming a better listener. www.YourHealth.Org

Why it's critical to say what needs to be said — and listen when others do the same.Speak out, listen up — these are Megan Reitz's core pillars of workplace communication. According to her, healthy organizations are only possible when everyone can say what they think, and they know they'll be heard.Reitz is an academic and author whose work focuses on creating workplaces where all voices are heard and valued. Her latest book, Speak Out, Listen Up, explores the power dynamics that shape our communication at work and beyond. “Conversational habits define organizational success and our capacity to flourish,” she says. “Ethical conduct depends on what we're able to say and what we aren't, and whether we're heard or not. Innovation depends on our capacity to speak up, challenge, and disrupt, and whether that is heard or not. And of course, our engagement and our ability to perform depends on a feeling that our opinion is valued and that we're respected.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Reitz and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to create workplaces where every voice is heard. From her T.R.U.T.H. framework (trust, risk, understanding, titles, and how-to) to the pitfalls of communicational power dynamics, Reitz's insights reveal why healthy organizations are only possible when we all speak out and listen up.Episode Reference Links:Megan ReitzMegan's Book: Speak Out, Listen UpEp.132 Lean Into Failure: How to Make Mistakes That Work Ep.148 Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard Conversations Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:21) - The TRUTH Framework (05:32) - Status, Titles, and Voice (09:21) - Power Traps For Leaders (14:06) - Mindful Leadership = Habit Change (18:35) - The Final Three Questions (25:46) - 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. 

In this episode of Live Like a Leader, I sit down with organizational development expert Gil Crosby (https://www.crosbyod.com/) to explore timeless principles for change, leadership, and frontline empowerment. Learn why most “programs” fail, how to balance authority with freedom, and how leaders can unlock performance by listening to the people closest to the work.Gil Crosby has been an Organization Development Professional since 1984. He applies the Social Science of Kurt Lewin to help organizations navigate change and improve performance, as the same principles apply in both business and society. He is also a Professor at the Leadership Institute of Seattle, and he has just published his 7th book, Leadership and the Front-Line Workforce, for anyone in an organization. Here's what we get into: Kurt Lewin's social science—and why it still worksGil explains Lewin's core insight: when people who live with the problem talk it through together, design solutions that make sense to them, and test them, change actually sticks. Whether it's improving productivity in a plant or reducing violence in a community, people implement what they help shape. Why “forcing best practices” often failsWe talk about how organizations take something like Lean or the Toyota Production System and try to copy-paste it—usually by forcing compliance. Gil highlights what gets left out: at Toyota, when a worker stops the line, the supervisor's first response is “Thank you.” That level of respect and engagement is the point—and when it's missing, the system becomes just another top-down “program of the month.” A perfect frontline story: the Channel Locks lessonGil tells an incredible example from a manufacturing plant: management tried to reduce theft by making workers check out channel locks (basic tools used constantly), which slowed production every time someone needed one. When we asked the obvious question—what does downtime cost compared to a $15 tool?—The plant manager immediately changed course: “Tomorrow, we're putting channel locks everywhere.”And the best part? Once workers saw leadership was actually listening, they didn't steal them. Trust went up, friction went down, and productivity improved. Empowerment isn't “nice”—it's operationalI share why bad customer service drives me crazy (including what I've seen in Slovakia), and the pattern underneath it: people on the front line aren't empowered to make decisions. If the people closest to the work can't act, everything bottlenecks—and leadership often doesn't even know what's broken. Battlefield leadership and “commander's intent.”We connect this to military lessons: when leaders hoard information and control, people suffer. When teams understand the goal and the intent, they can make smarter decisions in real time. That's true in combat, and it's true in business. Democracy vs. autocracy—at work and in societyGil shares Lewin's conclusion that hit me hard: every generation has to learn how to be effective democratic citizens, because democracy isn't self-sustaining. The same is true inside organizations: if people aren't taught how to think, participate, and take ownership, you'll get passivity… or rebellion. The leadership sweet spot: structure + freedomOne of my favorite parts: Gil breaks leadership down as a balance of structure and freedom.People need clarity, information, accountability, and guidance.They also need autonomy and space to think.Too much control creates compliance-without-commitment. Too little structure turns into leaderless chaos. Meetings, fear, and why delegation is so hardWe talk about why leaders struggle to delegate well: endless meetings, unclear authority structures, and fear—fear of upsetting someone, fear of saying no, fear of authority (often rooted way earlier than work). I share a line I coach leaders to use when they're overloaded: “I'd be happy to do that. I'm maxed out—what would you like me to deprioritize so I can take this on?” Gil's low moment, and a leadership lessonGil opens up about the Great Recession: no safety net, consulting work dried up, and he drove a taxi to survive. His takeaway is powerful: do your best, no matter the role. And don't get cocky when money is flowing, because it can stop.MY BIGGEST TAKEAWAYIf you want performance, stop trying to “roll out” solutions to people. Build solutions with them. The front line sees what leadership can't—and when you treat them like owners instead of obstacles, everything improves: morale, execution, and results. --------John Bates provides 1:1 Executive Communications Coaching, both in-person and online. He also gets 92+ Net Promoter Scores for his large and small group leadership development trainings at organizations like Johnson & Johnson, NASA, Google, Intuit, Boston Scientific, and many more. Find more at https://executivespeakingsuccess.com.Sign up for his weekly micro-trainings for free at https://johnbates.com/mini-trainings and create a great leadership communications habit that makes you the kind of leader who inspires trust, loyalty, and connection.

Are you staying silent in tough workplace moments—and quietly diminishing your business worth because you haven't adopted the essential mindset for healthy conflict? If workplace conflict drains your energy, keeps you up at night, or makes collaboration feel harder than it should be, this episode speaks directly to you. You'll learn how shifting your essential mindset—and approaching disagreement with more intention—can turn tension into trust, reduce stress, and help you lead with confidence instead of second-guessing yourself. After listening, you'll walk away with: A practical mindset shift that helps you stop avoiding conflict and start seeing it as an opportunity for growth A simple, four-part framework to turn toxic disagreements into productive, collaborative conversations Clear ways to build trust, clarity, and follow-through so conflicts actually lead to better outcomes Press play now to learn how one essential mindset shift can transform the way you handle conflict—and make your workdays lighter, calmer, and far more effective. Check out: 00:43–03:48 – The powerful conversation with yourself and the essential mindset shift that turns silence into constructive leadership 06:53–07:57 – The introduction of the four dimensions of constructive conflict that transform disagreement into collaboration 15:55–18:15 – Why commitment is the missing link in most conflict conversations—and how to move from good intentions to real follow-through 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cassandra (Cass) M. Bailey is the CEO of Slice Communications, the founder and current Chairwoman of Social Media Day, Inc., and the creator of the “My Mom Is…” children's book series.  She has been working in marketing communications for more than 20 years and has authored two books on the subject: Pay Attention! and Social Media is About People. She believes that integrated public relations, social media, and email marketing efforts are critical for growing businesses and non-profits looking to accomplish their goals.With a background in international politics, economics, and philosophy, communications has become her passion and she has been tapped by various industry associations and the media to share her insights and experiences.  She has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS This Morning, and The Today Show and has written for, or been quoted in, Forbes, Philadelphia Magazine, Black Enterprise Magazine, TheNextWeb, and a number of other publications.  Cass has also been named as a Rising Star by the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and received the Brava award from Philadelphia Smart CEO.Cass is deeply involved with her community and has served on boards for the Entrepreneurs' Organization of Philadelphia; Business Leadership Forum at The Union League of Philadelphia; Small Business Board at the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce; Tree House Books; Pennsylvania 30 Day Fund; and Hopeworks.  Cass graduated from The Catholic University of America with a degree in international politics, economics and philosophy.  Additionally, she has completed programs in business education from the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program and WBENC Executive Program at the Tuck School of Business. Thank you for listening to "Can You Hear Me?". If you enjoyed our show, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform.Stay connected with us:Follow us on LinkedIn!Follow our co-host Eileen Rochford on Linkedin!Follow our co-host Rob Johnson on Linkedin!

In this episode of the Your Health University Podcast, Jamie sits down with Matt Whitehead, Chief Ancillary Officer at Your Health, to unpack one of leadership's hardest realities: you rarely have all the information you want when decisions matter most.Drawing from decades of healthcare leadership experience, Matt explains how early decisions were driven almost entirely by gut, ethics, and urgency—long before real-time data existed. Together, they explore the balance between data and instinct, confidence and humility, decisiveness and recklessness.This conversation tackles real leadership tension: when waiting causes harm, when momentum matters more than perfection, and why doing nothing is often the most dangerous choice. Matt also shares a candid leadership failure, what it taught him, and how Your Health built a culture where mistakes are learning tools—not career-ending moments.If you lead people, teams, or systems—especially in healthcare—this episode reframes uncertainty not as a weakness, but as the proving ground of great leadership. www.YourHealth.Org

Thank you for listening to "Can You Hear Me?". If you enjoyed our show, please consider subscribing and leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform.Stay connected with us:Follow us on LinkedIn!Follow our co-host Eileen Rochford on Linkedin!Follow our co-host Rob Johnson on Linkedin!

Why it's not about being born a great communicator, but becoming one.The greatest communicators aren't always great from the start. As Lerone Martin knows, even the great Martin Luther King Jr. had to practice before he could persuade.Martin is the Martin Luther King Jr. Centennial Professor at Stanford, and as director of the King Research and Education Institute, he has spent years studying how King developed his brilliant communication that continues to captivate audiences to this day. “This is a skill that Martin developed over years,” Martin says. “There are stories of him practicing in the mirror... And I think it speaks to us about how we can develop this skill over time.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Martin and host Matt Abrahams unpack the techniques behind King's legendary speeches, from the musicality of his voice to his use of repetition and narrative structure. Whether you're preparing a speech or building conversation skills, Martin highlights King's example to show that great communication isn't always born — it's built.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Lerone MartinEp.192 Quick Thinks: How to Supersize Your Stories Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:50) - Why MLK Was So Compelling (04:17) - MLK's Early Speaking Struggles (05:49) - How MLK Practiced and Improved (06:44) - Favorite MLK Speech (07:58) - “I Have A Dream” and Prepared Spontaneity (10:03) - MLK's Core Techniques (13:01) - Repetition, Rhythm, and Momentum (15:30) - Conviction vs. Performative Messaging (19:00) - The Final Three Questions (23:35) - Conclusion ********This episode is sponsored by Grammarly. Let Grammarly take the busywork off your plate so you can focus on high-impact work. Download Grammarly for free today Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.

Margie Newman Tsay is the Founder & CEO of Intesa Communications Group, a strategic communications firm specializing in reputation management, executive coaching, and crisis response. A seasoned communicator and entrepreneur, Margie draws on her background in media relations, advocacy, and leadership to help high‑profile professionals and organizations build trust, align their message, and navigate change.Her work is guided by a deep belief in authenticity, clarity, and purpose‑driven communication. Based in San Diego but rooted in Nashville, Margie serves as a champion for leaders who want to elevate their impact and build cultures anchored in connection, integrity, and clarity.SHOW SUMMARYIn this episode of Selling from the Heart Podcast. Larry Levine and Darrell Amy are joined by Margie Newman Tsay, founder of Intesa Communications Group, who shares her expertise in strategic communications, reputation management, executive coaching, and crisis response. Margie emphasizes the need for clarity, brevity, and effective communication during crises and how these skills are essential for building trust and credibility. She also highlights the role of continuous learning and vulnerability in becoming a successful communicator, regardless of age or gender. The episode underscores the overlooked necessity of crisis communication training in the sales profession and offers actionable insights for sales leaders and professionals.KEY TAKEAWAYSCommunication requires repetition - Say things 10-11 times before people truly retain them; don't assume once is enough Make the customer the hero - Focus on their goals and needs, not your product or yourself Reputation is built daily - Trust and authenticity come from how you show up every single day, not just when making a sale Surprises are for birthdays - Over-communicate to avoid catching people off guard in business relationships Crisis communication essentials - Focus on brevity, roles, and goals; reduce oxygen to the flame rather than escalating Diversify your network - Learn from people across different ages, genders, and industries to expand your communication toolkit Humans first in crisis - Remember everyone defaults to fear and ego under pressure; sometimes people just need to be heardQUOTES"Selling from the heart means remembering that it's not about you. Make the customer the hero." "Surprises are for birthdays. You gotta communicate, communicate, communicate in four different ways to make sure people get it." "Leadership is context. When we stop communicating and giving that context, trust erodes." "No one is born a great communicator. This is a learned skill. You can start today being a great communicator." "In a crisis, our brains are ego and overwhelm. We immediately need to know what is going on, how do we solve for it, and what's my job." "What's the closest gator to your boat? You take 'em one gator at a time." (on prioritizing in crisis) "Everyone is a human first. Ego and fear don't bring out the best in any person, and that is what you're dealing with in a crisis."Learn more about Margie Newman Tsay.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margienewmantsay/Learn more about Darrell and Larry.Darrell's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrellamy/Larry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrylevine1992/Website: https://www.sellingfromtheheart.net/ADDITIONAL RESOURCESDiscover Heart-Centered Leadership:Explore the Culture from the Heart Podcast and uncover the secrets to thriving workplace cultures. Know a visionary CEO? Nominate them today at

It's not about you—it's about them. In this week's episode, John Maxwell shares the powerful shift that transforms everyday leaders into extraordinary influencers and makes it possible for your leadership to truly impact others! After his lesson, Mark Cole and Chris Goede share real-world examples of how making it about others unlocks trust, connection, and next-level leadership. Key takeaways: The more you focus on adding value to others, the more you'll receive value in return. To communicate in a way that truly resonates, make your message all about your audience, not yourself. The three questions every follower is asking about their leader: Do you care about me? Can you help me? Can I trust you? Our BONUS resource for this episode is the It's Not About You: Leadership, Communication, and Putting Others First Worksheet, which includes fill-in-the-blank notes from John's teaching. You can download the worksheet by visiting MaxwellPodcast.com/OthersFirst and clicking "Download the Bonus Resource." Take the next step in your growth journey and become a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member. Click here to speak with a Program Advisor today! References:  Watch this episode on YouTube! Accelerate your growth with the Maxwell Leadership App (start your 7-day free trial today with code PODCAST7!) Get John Maxwell's Every Day with Purpose online course for 75% off What Serving Others Has Taught Me Podcast Episode Join the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team

When Renee Goode was killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, two completely different stories emerged from the same event. One side called her a domestic terrorist who weaponized her Honda Pilot, while the other saw a mother trying to escape. As a crisis manager from the Twin Cities, I break down the competing narratives from President Trump, JD Vance, Kristi Noem, Governor Tim Walz, and Mayor Jacob Frey to reveal the five hidden cues in any crisis communication: who gets humanized first, how they treat uncertainty, what the process looks like, what they ask you to do with your anger, and what happens to people who disagree. This isn't just political analysis, it's a framework you can apply to workplace drama, family conflict, or any situation where someone's trying to control the narrative. You'll learn why Walz's calm messaging worked after he learned from past mistakes, how Frey's profanity-laced response was strategically brilliant, and why the administration's gaslighting playbook falls apart under scrutiny. Once you learn to spot these patterns, you can't unsee them—in politics or in your personal life.Trigger Warning: This episode discusses a fatal police shooting and contains strong language.Want More Behind the Breakdown? Follow The PR Breakdown with Molly McPherson on Substack for early access to podcast episodes, private member chats, weekly live sessions, and monthly workshops that go deeper than the mic. It is the inside hub for communicators who want real strategy, clear judgment, and a little side-eye where it counts.Follow Molly on Substack Subscribe to Molly's Weekly Newsletter Subscribe to Molly's Live Events Calendar. Need a Keynote Speaker? Drawing from real-world PR battles, Molly delivers the same engaging stories and hard-won crisis insights from the podcast to your live audience. Click here to book Molly for your next meeting. Follow & Connect with Molly: https://www.youtube.com/mollymcpherson https://mollymcpherson.substack.com/ https://www.tiktok.com/@mollybmcpherson https://www.instagram.com/molly.mcpherson/ ...

The keys to communicating clarity, not confusion.What separates communicators who clarify from those who confuse? The ability to “Simplify complexity,” says Adam Bryant. “I don't think you can be an effective leader if you can't do that.”Bryant is a senior managing director at the ExCo Group and former New York Times journalist who interviewed over 500 CEOs for his renowned Corner Office column. Through those conversations, he identified a pattern: the best communicators turn complexity into clarity. For Bryant, that means checking your own expertise, considering not whether something makes sense to you, but whether it makes sense to someone else. “Empathy [is] a component of communication,” he says, “to be an effective communicator, you have to be able to get in the head of the audience.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Bryant and host Matt Abrahams explore the keys to clear communication, from simplifying (without oversimplifying) to repeating messages until people can recite them back. Whether you're leading a whole company or just one conversation, Bryant's insights reveal how to communicate complex ideas in ways anyone can understand.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Adam BryantAdam's Books: Quick and Nimble / The CEO TestEp.98 Give It to Me Straight: How to Give Honest, Constructive Feedback 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 (01:10) - Traits of Successful Leaders (03:25) - Communication Mistakes to Avoid (07:22) - Listening as a Leadership Skill (10:42) - Simplifying Complex Ideas (14:18) - How to Capture Attention (16:58) - Leading Life with Curiosity (18:22) - The Final Three Question (22:47) - Conclusion

Today, I'm joined by Jacob Morgan—a futurist, 5x bestselling author, and one of the world's leading authorities on leadership and the future of work. Jacob is also the host of the Great Leadership podcast and a highly sought-after keynote speaker.In this episode, Jacob shares his candid thoughts on how leadership is evolving in 2026, why accountability is the most overlooked skill in today's workplace, and what it really takes to create future-ready organizations. We explore the myth of consensus, the limits of empathy, and how strong communication builds trust even when teams disagree.Jacob also discusses how the pandemic reshaped leadership expectations, why perks can't replace purpose, and how great leaders communicate with clarity and conviction—especially when it's hard.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 Jacob: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobmorgan8/► Learn more about Jacob's work: www.thefutureorganization.com► Order Jacob's book: https://thefutureorganization.com/books/► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com

How to have more open conversations about money.Talking about money is taboo for many people. But according to Wendy De La Rosa, financial well-being only starts when we break the silence around finance.De La Rosa is a professor at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and a co-founder of the Common Cents Lab, an initiative aiming to increase financial well-being for low- to moderate-income people. For many, she says, shame keeps us silent about money. “Shame is paralyzing, and more than any other negative emotion, [it] leads us to ignore,” she says. But when it comes to financial well-being, ignoring our finances is the last thing we should do. Instead, De La Rosa advocates for open discussion. “Talk about finances,” she says. “How did you ask for a raise? What are you getting paid right now? These are important conversations that help everybody.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, De La Rosa and host Matt Abrahams explore how to have more open, productive conversations about finances. Whether you're a manager thinking about employee financial wellness or trying to broach a difficult topic with a partner or friend, De La Rosa offers practical strategies for breaking through the taboo around money.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Wendy De La RosaEp.104 How to Change: Building Better Habits and Behaviors (And Getting Out of Your Own Way)Ep.59 From Dreaming to Doing: How We Set and Achieve Goals  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: ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost. This episode is brought to you by Babbel. Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can get started on your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription.Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.