Podcasts about strategic communications

What it takes to lead as a communicator and communicate as a leader.Leadership isn't just about making decisions — it's about how you communicate them. As Matt Abrahams puts it, “Communication is operationalized leadership.”At a recent Me2We event, in connection with Stanford GSB's Executive Education LEAD program, Abrahams held a live discussion with four of the podcast's most popular guests: Celine Teoh, facilitator of the GSB's famous Interpersonal Dynamics course; Huggy Rao, organizational behavior professor and co-author of The Friction Project; legendary Stanford basketball coach Tara VanDerveer; and Dave Dodson, lecturer and author of The Manager's Handbook.In this special live episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, the panel shares frameworks and lessons for leading and communicating more effectively. From Teoh's five A's for inviting dissent to Rao's warning against “jargon monoxide,” from VanDerveer's relationship-first approach to Dodson's case for leading like a teacher, this conversation explores what it takes to communicate as a leader — and lead as a communicator.Episode Reference Links:Celine TeohTara VanDerveerHuggy RaoHuggy's Book: The Friction ProjectDavid DodsonDavid's Book: The Manager's HandbookEp.194 Live Lessons in Levity and Leadership: Me2We 2025 Part 1 Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (04:18) - Encouraging Dissent (06:40) - The Addition Bias (09:57) - Coaching Through Encouragement (12:12) - Leadership in the AI Era (16:24) - Teaching vs. Managing (17:46) - Making People Feel Appreciated (19:06) - Slowing Down Decisions (21:24) - Listening More (24:24) - Avoiding Jargon (26:31) - Giving Better Feedback (28:53) - Preparing for Communication (29:44) - Using Communication Frameworks (31:15) - Skills for Future Leaders (37:47) - Conclusion

What happens when a deepfake video becomes probable cause? Law enforcement agencies are already grappling with AI-generated evidence, doxing attacks on officers, and a training gap that's growing wider every six weeks. If the justice system can't keep up with the AI threat curve, the consequences won't just be policy problems — they'll be people's lives. In this episode of The Audit, former firefighter-paramedic turned strategic communications consultant Braden Frame — founder of Modern Cartographers and Modern Fortis — joins co-hosts Joshua Schmidt, Eric Brown, and Nick Mellum to break down the rapidly evolving AI threat landscape facing law enforcement and public safety. Braden draws a sharp parallel between law enforcement's slow adoption of social media a decade ago and the AI reckoning happening right now — and why that delay could be catastrophic this time around. 

Send us Fan MailShe had spent three nights preparing her counter-argument. Data, stakeholder feedback, a slide deck she wasn't even sure she would get to use. By the time she sat down for the meeting she was dreading, the knot in her stomach was already there.She was preparing to disagree with her VP. But that wasn't the real conversation.In this Monday Momentum episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton kicks off a five-part June series on the difficult conversations women leaders walk into braced for a fight. This episode shows why the conversation you name before you walk in shapes everything that happens inside it, and how reframing disagreement as alignment changes your tone, your language, and the response you get back.What You Will LearnWhy high-performing women leaders often over-prepare for disagreement, and what that costs them over time.The difference between debating to win and aligning to make a better decision.A simple opening phrase and follow-up question you can use to stay grounded, surface your perspective, and keep the conversation productive.Your Action StepIdentify one conversation this week where you've been preparing to disagree with someone. Before you walk in, ask yourself: what do I actually want to walk out of this room having accomplished?If the answer is, “I want us to make the best decision,” then this is not a disagreement. It is an alignment. Walk in with that frame, use the phrase and question from this episode, and notice what changes.AI PromptUse this prompt to prepare for your next alignment conversation. Paste it into your preferred AI assistant and answer the questions as they come.I'm a [role] in [industry]. I have an upcoming conversation with my [manager, peer, stakeholder] in which I see the situation differently from them. Help me reframe this conversation from a disagreement to an alignment.Ask me 3 questions:What decision is being discussed, and where do I see it differently?What outcome do I actually want to walk out of this conversation having accomplished?What might my counterpart be seeing that I am not?Then write:One opening phrase I can use to surface my perspective without sounding defensive.One follow-up question I can use to invite their thinking and find the real gap.Constraints:Forward-facing toneNo language that signals confrontation or asks permission to speakMust carry the same weight as “surface it” or “flag it”Must sound natural when spoken aloudAvoid softening language like “just,” “a little,” “maybe,” “I was thinking,” or “I wanted to mention”Example output:Opening phrase: “I'm tracking something different on this, and I want to surface it before we decide.”Follow-up question: “Can you walk me through how you got there?”Ready to Go Deeper?Book a complimentary Leadership Strategy Call with Kele to talk through where you are, where you want to go, and what it will take to get there.About Your HostKele Belton is a communication and leadership trainer who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.Connect with KeleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com

The hidden habits behind calm, confident communicators.What does it really take to become a more confident communicator? In this special collaboration between Think Fast, Talk Smart and Headspace, host Matt Abrahams shares practical, mindful strategies for speaking with clarity, managing anxiety, listening more deeply, and connecting more authentically with others.Across five short lessons, Matt outlines how to calm speaking nerves, become a better listener, structure your ideas clearly, engage any audience, and strengthen your presence — whether you're leading a meeting, giving a presentation, or navigating everyday conversations.Whether you're speaking to a crowd or having a one-on-one conversation, these tools can help you communicate with more confidence, calm, and connection.Episode Reference Links:Headspace 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 (03:36) - Speaking Anxiety (08:42) - Mindful Communication (13:51) - Clarity & Structure (17:28) - Creating Engagement (24:53) - Building Presence (29:55) - 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.Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

“When I started on the project of Necesse, we had maybe thirty sound effects. I've made around 400, 350 sound effects, so it's become much more immersive. You can hear animals when you wander around in the different environments. And just the feedback you get by playing the game, it's quite nice compared to before, which were much more… maybe empty is the right word.” – Rune EskildsenThis week's guest is a media composer, sound designer, and drummer based in Denmark. He writes music and builds sonic identities across formats, from commercials and podcast jingles to film scores, game music, and in-game sound design. He holds a Master of Science in Strategic Communication, which he applies to creative direction, collaboration, and clear, audience-first storytelling.More recently, he's become the Composer and Sound Designer of the indie game Necesse, selling more than 2,000,000 copies. His name is Rune R. B. Eskildsen, and he bridges classical training and cutting-edge technology to tell stories through sound. This episode will give you a fresh, behind-the-scenes perspective on how sound can shape emotion, imagination, and even player behavior.As always, if you have questions for my guest, you're welcome to reach out through the links in the show notes. If you have questions for me, visit audiobrandingpodcast.com, where you'll find a lot of ways to get in touch. Plus, subscribing to the newsletter will let you know when the new podcasts are available, along with other interesting bits of audio-related news. And if you're getting some value from listening, the best ways to show your support are to share this podcast with a friend and leave an honest review. Both those things really help, and I'd love to feature your review on future podcasts. You can leave one either in written or in voice format from the podcast's main page. I would so appreciate that.(00:00) – Growing Up in a Musical HomeOur conversation starts with the movies and music that inspire Rune's career in sound. “I clearly remember watching Star Wars,” he recalls, “and all of the soundscapes that are in, you know, just that huge universe, [with] TIE-fighters flying by and Darth Vader, that scary sound.” He shares his memories of growing up in a home that doubled as a music studio, and of studying classical music from a young age. “When I went to this special school in Denmark that is only for classical music,” he says, “and being there, being part of that, I played the French horn. At this time, I started to have ear training and music theory and all of that, which kind of led me on a path to try to make my own.”(15:00) – From Classical Music to Video GamesThe discussion turns to his work in the video game industry and how he got his start in composing video-game soundtracks. “I showed up at this incubator with game companies,” he tells us, “and I was, like, ‘This is me, I do music, I want to do music for games.' And then some of the guys there, they said, ‘Hey, we want to work with you.'" Rune gives us a behind-the-scenes look at game development and recalls his sound work on MineRalph, a game where the soundtrack had to keep pace with the action. “So, because you gain speed if you're, like, going down a hill or something like that, or down a hole,” he explains, “if you have high speed, the music will change into different adaptive layers.”(21:40) – Creating Immersive Gaming SoundscapesAs the first half of our talk comes to a close, Rune tells us more about his work with video games and shares another memorable project that took some outside-the-box thinking. “That was like a dystopian world sci-fi thing,” he recalls, “and that was actually mainly symphonic music. But again, it was sci-fi, so I was able to design a lot of, you know, sounds that people did not hear before.” He shares his thoughts on where indie games are heading next and how organic creativity is becoming an increasingly valuable asset in the industry. “I think in terms of trends,” he explains, “people are trying to make immersive worlds that are standing out more than just being, you know, if you use Unity... making it more creative, making your own world, making it hand-drawn instead.”Episode SummaryRune shares his early memories of sound, particularly from sci-fi films.Rune explains his journey from classical music to video game soundtracks.Discussion on current trends in game audio and the role of AI.Tune in for next week's episode as we talk more about the influence of AI in video games and cinema, Rune's advice to musicians for juggling the rapid-fire demands of modern freelancing, and how countries around the world are managing the environmental impact of the AI boom.Connect with the Audio Branding Podcast:Book your project with Voice Overs and Vocals by visiting https://voiceoversandvocals.comConnect with me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jodikrangle/Watch the Audio Branding Podcast on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/JodiKrangleVOConnect with me on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodikrangle/Leave the Audio Branding Podcast a review at https://lovethepodcast.com/audiobranding (Thank you!)Share your passion effectively with these Tips for Sounding Your Best as a Podcast Guest!https://voiceoversandvocals.com/tips-for-sounding-your-best-as-a-podcast-guest/Get my Top Five Tips for Implementing an Intentional Audio Strategyhttps://voiceoversandvocals.com/audio-branding-strategy/Editing/Production by Humberto Franco - https://humbertofranco.com/This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: OP3 - https://op3.dev/privacy

My Conversation with Andrew starts at 17 mins  Subscribe and Watch Interviews LIVE : On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Stand Up is a daily podcast. I book,host,edit, post and promote new episodes with brilliant guests every day. This show is Ad free and fully supported by listeners like you! Please subscribe now for as little as 5$ and gain access to a community of over 750 awesome, curious, kind, funny, brilliant, generous souls Subscribe to Andrew Substack Andrew L. Seidel is Vice President of Strategic Communications for AU, an author, and an attorney who's defended the First Amendment for more than a decade. Andrew is the author of two books: The Founding Myth: Why Christian Nationalism Is Un-American (2019) and American Crusade: How the Supreme Court is Weaponizing Religious Freedom (2022). He's also co-editor of an academic text, Law and Religion: Cases and Materials (Foundation Press, 2022) 5th Edition, with Prof. Leslie Griffin of UNLV law school. A Senior Correspondent at Religion Dispatches, Andrew is a prolific author of opeds, has written several scholarly articles, has debated the utility of the Johnson Amendment, and organized and contributed to the groundbreaking report, "Christian Nationalism at the January 6, 2021, Insurrection," which was published by the Baptist Joint Committee and the Freedom From Religion Foundation and aroused congressional interest. Andrew is a recognized expert on Christian Nationalism, which he's spent the last decade fighting in and out of court. He's appeared on Fox News to debate Bill O'Reilly, MSNBC, and hundreds of other media outlets. Andrew graduated cum laude from Tulane University ('04) with a B.S. in neuroscience and environmental science and magna cum laude from Tulane University Law School ('09), where he was awarded the Haber J. McCarthy Award for excellence in environmental law. He studied human rights and international law at the University of Amsterdam and traveled the world on Semester at Sea. Andrew completed his Master of Laws at Denver University Sturm College of Law ('11) with a perfect GPA and was awarded the Outstanding L.L.M. Award for his work as the Erik Bluemel International Environmental Law Fellow. After a short stint in private practice Andrew joined the Freedom From Religion Foundation as a constitutional attorney and later Director of Strategic Response, running a nimble unit known as the Strategic Response Team and helping elevate that organization's profile. He joined AU in March of 2022. Before dedicating his life and law degree to keeping state and church separate, Andrew was a Grand Canyon tour guide and an accomplished nature photographer. Follow Andrew on Twitter: @AndrewLSeidel On YOUTUBE.com/StandUpWithPete ON SubstackStandUpWithPete Listen rate and review on Apple Podcasts Listen rate and review on Spotify Pete On Instagram Pete on Blue Sky Pete on Threads Pete on Tik Tok Pete on Twitter Pete Personal FB page Stand Up with Pete FB page Gift a Subscription https://www.patreon.com/PeteDominick/gift Send Pete $ Directly on Venmo All things Jon Carroll  Buy Ava's Art  Subscribe to Piano Tuner Paul Paul Wesley on Substack Listen to Barry and Abigail Hummel Podcast Listen to Matty C Podcast and Substack Follow and Support Pete Coe Hire DJ Monzyk to build your website or help you with Marketing  

Olga Sunden, curator and publisher of the groundbreaking project Through Her Eyes, joins us to discuss a powerful new photography exhibition and album created by Ukrainian women who are both soldiers and photographers—capturing the war from inside it. The exhibition is currently on view in New York (May 13 – June 6), making this an especially timely conversation. Olga shares the stories behind these intimate, unflinching images, the courage of the women who continue to fight and document simultaneously, and the vital role of art as both advocacy and historical record. A Ukrainian-born American communications strategist and Director of Strategic Communications and Outreach at the American Ukraine Committee, Olga founded Through Her Eyes after training in tactical medicine in Kyiv and meeting one of the photographer-soldiers. She speaks with depth and passion about:Women documenting conflict from within war zonesResilience, identity, and purpose during wartimeThe challenge of keeping global attention on a war that continues every dayUsing lived experience to build cultural projects that preserve Ukrainian stories for international audiencesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio--2671113/support.Subscribe now at YouTube.com/@RefocusedNetworkThank you for your time. 

John talks about Colorado Gov. Jared Polis commuting the sentence of 2020 Election Denier Tina Peters, making her eligible to be freed next month. He also discusses the Trump Administration considering settling a $10 Billion lawsuit brought by Trump himself, creating instead a $1.7Billion slush fund for himself and other MAGA supplicants who feel triggered and attacked by laws and morals – (like J6 rioters for example). Plus, he talks about Trump claiming the Southern Poverty Law Center was the source funding the deadly 2017 Unite the Right gathering of neo-Nazis and other white supremacists in Virginia. Then, John interviews the president of the Florida Education Association - Andrew Spar. During his 15 years leading the Volusia union, Andrew negotiated 14 contracts, handled numerous grievances and arbitrations, and spent many long hours advocating for members and working families. At FEA, he spent eight years on the Executive Cabinet. Next, Public Relations Society of America award-winning Democratic Strategist and political columnist Max Burns returns to discuss his new piece in The Hill called "How Republicans are going to blow it and put Democrats back in charge". And then finally, John chats with the Vice President of Strategic Communications for Americans United for Separation of Church and State. Andrew L. Seidel. Andrew is a recognized expert on Christian Nationalism, which he's spent the last decade fighting in and out of court.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Petrendologist Charlotte Reed discusses dog liability insurance with Janet Ruiz, the Director of Strategic Communications at the Insurance Information Institute and detailing pet owners automobiles with professional Joseph Lim of Elixir Auto Detailing.

The Tiger Sisters share the keys to collaborative communication.Good marketing communication doesn't just go one way. As the Tiger Sisters know, building a brand is about bringing your audience into the conversation.Cherie and Jean Luo are sisters, tech and finance experts, and co-hosts of the Tiger Sisters Podcast, a show about money, power, and love. Their approach to content creation mirrors how they think about communication: know your audience, stay curious, and embrace feedback. “We often think about our community as the co-producers of our episodes,” Cherie says. “Each episode we put out is like a mini product. Once we put it out, we can get feedback on whether or not people are resonating.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, the Tiger Sisters join host Matt Abrahams, sharing how they've built a thriving brand through collaboration — with each other and with their audience. From simplifying complex topics to crafting messages that resonate, the Luo's insights show why the best communication is about healthy back and forth.Episode Reference Links:Jean LuoCherie Brooke LuoTiger Sisters PodcastConnect: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 (02:34) - The Tiger Sisters Mission (04:10) - Going Viral on TikTok (06:00) - Explaining Complex Topics (07:56) - Learning from the Audience (10:05) - Working as Sisters & Co-Founders (13:05) - Reinventing Careers (14:31) - Family Expectations (16:20) - Personal Branding (18:57) - Teaching Through Storytelling (21:02) - The Final Three Questions (26:23) - 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. 

UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting spent just 16 minutes inside 10 Downing Street this morning with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for what was dubbed as “crunch” talks. Reports are now saying Wes Streeting may be in talks to take Starmer's leadership role…For more on this, Ciara is joined by James Lyons, Keir Starmer's former Director of Strategic Communication.

AI can help you outline your thoughts. But when you skip the step of making it yours, you're watering down your uniqueness, losing your voice and the signal that tells people who you are as a leader. In this episode, Jill Griffin unpacks:Why polished communication is back, and why it might be quietly eroding your credibilityThe MIT research on AI and your brain that every leader needs to know aboutHow to use AI without disappearing from your own communications, and what it costs when you doMentioned on the show: MIT Study: Your Brain on ChatgptSupport the showJill Griffin, is a leadership strategist, executive coach, and host of The Career Refresh. She works with senior leaders to navigate complexity, strengthen teams, and lead with greater clarity and intention.With 20+ years of experience at companies like Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Hilton, and Martha Stewart, Jill brings a practical, real-world lens to leadership, decision-making, and career strategy. Visit GriffinMethod.com to learn more about working together:The Next Era Leader An 8-week cohort for women leaders ready to expand their capacity and lead through complexity with clarity and intentionExecutive Coaching & Leadership Advisory 1:1 strategic partnership for leaders navigating growth, transition, and what's nextConnect with Jill for Leadership Development for Organizations and Speaking & WorkshopsInstagram: @JillGriffinOffical

James Lyons, former Director of Strategic Communications at 10 Downing Street, on challenges to Keir Starmer's leadership.

Conor Brophy, Managing Director of Strategic Communications at Teneo

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will hold a crucial cabinet meeting this morning after members of his government told him he should set a timetable for his departure. We get the latest on this with James Lyons former Director of Strategic Communications for Keir Starmer.

Send us Fan MailShe showed up to the coaching session with her laptop open and her defense document ready. Two weeks of work. ROI figures, headcount justifications, three years of performance data — all of it organized into slides, all of it prepared to answer one question: “Why should I keep my job?”There was just one problem. Nobody in her organization was asking that question.In this Monday Momentum episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton shares what this director at a financial services firm discovered in that coaching session — and the shift that changed how she walked into every high-stakes conversation after it. Not with a defense. With a position.What You Will LearnWhy the instinct to defend your past makes high-performing women less visible at the exact moment visibility matters most.The difference between defending your value and positioning it — and why it changes how decision-makers see you.A three-part framework you can build today that shifts the entire tone of any high-stakes conversation with leadership.Your Action StepListen to the full episode and build your own version of the framework Kele walks through. Then say it out loud before your next conversation with leadership. Not as a rehearsed speech. As a reminder of something you already know.AI Prompt: Build Your Positioning StatementUse this prompt to put the framework into your own words:“I am a [job title] in [industry]. I want to build a three-sentence positioning statement that communicates my value clearly and confidently without sounding defensive. The Result: [describe a specific outcome you have delivered recently and its impact]. The Strategic Focus: [describe the business problem you are currently solving]. The Direction: [describe where you are taking your work next and why it connects to what your organization needs most]. Requirements: Write three clear, confident sentences. No jargon. No defensive language. Forward-facing tone. Each sentence should feel natural to say out loud in a professional conversation.”Ready to Go Deeper?Book a complimentary Leadership Strategy Call with Kele to identify exactly what is standing between you and the recognition you have earned.About Your HostKele Belton is a communication and leadership trainer who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.Connect with KeleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com

For the latest on the dramatic developments in British politics, our London Correspondent, Sean Whelan and James Lyons, Director of Strategic Communications in Downing Street during Keir Starmer's first year as Prime Minister.

This week, Petrendologist Charlotte Reed discusses Spring Cleaning with American Cleaning Institute's Jessica EK, Associate Vice President, Strategic Communication; and with 5 Strands Inc President and Co-Founder, Lisa Blaurock about Blue-Green Algae Testing

As the UK heads to the polls today, negative results have been predicted for the Labour Party, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's political future hanging in the balance.From winds of independence to the crumbling of Labour strongholds – uncertainty seems to be the word of election day.Joining Ciara to discuss what Britain could look like in the next few days is James Lyons former Director of Strategic Communications for Keir Starmer.

0:30 - DOJ investigation of 36 IL school districts 14:42 - Libertyville HS 128 school board meeting 33:53 - Swalwell (Gallego?) 55:16 - Liel Leibovitz, editor at large for Tablet and host of the “Rootless” podcast: Everything Is Reality TV. And Spencer Pratt Knows It. Follow Liel on X @liel 01:12:26 - In-depth History with Frank from Arlington Heights 01:15:40 - BENEFITS FRAUD 01:39:07 -Ted Dabrowski says Walgreens’s South Shore closure shows why law and order matters, warning companies won’t invest without it. 01:54:58 - Director of Strategic Communications & Content at the Federation for American Immigration Reform, Brian Lonergan: Workplace Raids Are Coming—and They’re Essential. Brian is also co-host of the “No Border, No Country” podcast 02:12:51 - Jakub Grygiel, professor of politics at the Catholic University of America and a visiting fellow at the Hoover Institution: The Iran War and the Coming Global StruggleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Derek De Vette, Co-Founder and Head of Strategic Communications at Halo Communications, joins John Golden to explain how AI search has rewritten the PR playbook and why niche earned media now outperforms marquee placements for sales pipeline growth. Derek shares fresh data on ChatGPT and Claude citation patterns and a practical playbook for becoming the cited source inside AI answers. Learn more at https://halocomms.agency/.

Send us Fan MailLayoffs. Restructuring. Industry-wide uncertainty. And your instinct as a high-performing woman leader is the same one you have always trusted: do more, say yes to more, work longer hours.That instinct is the one thing guaranteed to make you less visible at the exact moment visibility matters most.In this Monday Momentum episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton shares the one strategy women leaders can use this week to step out of survival mode and back into the strategic seat. It is called the 90-Day Achievement Inventory. It takes ten minutes. Because working harder in silence is not a strategy. It is a hiding place.What You Will Learn:Why the instinct to do more in uncertain seasons makes high-performing women less visible, not more.The 90-Day Achievement Inventory: a ten-minute exercise that turns invisible work into visible leadership.Three questions to answer this week to claim your impact in language decision-makers can hear.Your Action Step:Set a ten-minute timer today. Answer these three questions in writing. Do not edit. Do not minimize.1.     What results have I delivered in the last 90 days?2.     Who benefited from that work?3.     If my team described my impact over the last 90 days, what would they say?Then take one of those achievements and share it in your next one-on-one or team meeting. Not as a brag, but as a status update from a leader who is clear about where she is adding value.Ready to Go Deeper?Book a complimentary Leadership Strategy Call with Kele to identify exactly what is standing between you and the recognition you have earned.About Your Host:Kele Belton is a communication and leadership trainer who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.Connect with Kele:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/• Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com

Send us Fan MailYou walked into the meeting prepared. More prepared than anyone else in the room. You knew the analysis cold. And when the moment came to advocate for your work, you said something like, “I think the team covered it well. I can share more later if it would be helpful.”Later never came. The decision was made without you.In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton breaks down why waiting until you feel ready keeps high-performing women leaders invisible, and gives you a specific, repeatable method for communicating your value with clarity, authority, and impact, even when conditions are not perfect.As Part 3 of the three-part April visibility series (following How Perfectionism Keeps Women Leaders Invisible and What Unsupportive Work Environments Do to Your Leadership), this Thursday's deep dive is the bridge between everything covered in this series and the kind of recognition you have already earned.What You Will Learn:The Readiness Myth: Why waiting until you feel fully ready keeps your leadership invisible, especially in environments that keep shifting the definition.The Communication Double Bind: Why women leaders are often judged more harshly than men for identical self-advocacy, and how to communicate in a way that lands as leadership.The S.P.E.A.K. Method: State, Position, Express, Anchor, and Keep the conversation going with a specific ask.Execution vs. Strategic Language: The single sentence formula that shifts how decision-makers perceive your work.Apologetic vs. Confident Expression: How to identify the hedging patterns that undercut your message before you make it.The Five Moments That Matter Most: Where to apply the S.P.E.A.K. Method first for the highest visibility return.Your Action Step:Identify one moment in the next seven days where you would normally stay quiet, undersell your work, or wait to be asked. Apply the first two steps of the S.P.E.A.K. Method to that moment:State: Name your specific contribution clearly. Use “I” when you mean “I,” and name the outcome, not the process.Position: Translate it into strategic language using this formula: “I did this so that the business could achieve that.”You are not trying to master the entire method in one week. You are testing what happens when you stop waiting and start speaking.Mentioned in This Episode:Episode 160: How Perfectionism Keeps Women Leaders Invisible (Part 1 of 3)Episode 162: What Unsupportive Work Environments Do to Your Leadership (Part 2 of 3)Book a complimentary Leadership Strategy Call HEREAbout Your Host:Kele Belton is the CEO and founder of The Tailored Approach LLC. She is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and consultant who helps high-performing women in middle management build the communication and leadership strategies that get them recognized, sponsored, and promoted. Her podcast, Communicate to Lead, is ranked in the top 10 percent of podcasts globally.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.co

Send us Fan MailYou're prepared. You're contributing. You're taking thorough notes. And you're still being passed over for the stretch projects and promotions going to peers who seem less qualified. The problem isn't your work. It's that no one gets promoted for being the most thorough note-taker in the room. In this Monday Momentum episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton shares the one strategy women leaders can use this week to be seen as executive-ready in every meeting, and it takes 90 seconds.If you've ever left a meeting wondering why your insights didn't land or why the room responded to someone else's idea instead of yours, this 5-minute episode breaks down why visibility isn't about talking more, and how to claim strategic space early with a single comment that shifts the room.What you'll learnWhy speaking early in meetings positions you as more confident and leadership-ready, even if you speak less overallThe difference between contributing in meetings and leading them, and why the timing of your comments matters more than the volumeThree types of executive anchor comments you can use, depending on the meeting dynamicYour action stepIn your next meeting, wait three minutes, then drop one 90-second executive anchor. Use this simple script: "This impacts [business result] by [specific number]. Can we consider [strategic alternative or question]?" Write it down before the meeting so you don't have to improvise.AI PromptI'm a [role] in [industry]. I'm entering a meeting on [topic] and need to establish strategic leadership early.Generate 3 executive anchor statements I can use within the first 5 minutes.Each statement must:Reference a clear business impact (metrics, revenue, cost, or risk)Introduce a strategic trade-off or decision pointBridge technical execution to business outcomesBe deliverable in 20–30 secondsConstraints:No generic facilitation languageMust redirect conversation toward priorities and decisionsTone: calm, authoritative, and outcome-focusedExample (output style)"If we optimize for speed here, we can reduce deployment time by 30%, but we'll trade off standardization, are we prioritizing short-term velocity or long-term scalability?""This decision impacts roughly $5M in operational cost, so I want to anchor us on which outcome we're optimizing for.""From a business lens, the question isn't just feasibility, it's whether this drives adoption or adds friction to the user workflow."About your hostKele Belton is a communication and leadership trainer who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.Connect with KeleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.com

Simple strategies to think faster, stay authentic, and communicate with confidence. How do you stay genuine without sounding rehearsed? What helps when your thoughts are moving faster than your words? And how can you handle high-pressure moments with more ease?Strong communication isn't about having the right lines ready—it's about being present enough to respond with clarity. In the moment, it's easy to rush, overthink, or lose your structure. But with the right tools, you can slow down, connect, and communicate with intention.In this Ask Matt Anything episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Matt Abrahams shares insights from a live session with the Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community. Through real audience questions, he outlines practical ways to manage nerves, adapt to different situations, and build communication habits that last.Episode Reference Links:Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community  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 (02:22) - Email Small Talk (04:59) - Slowing Down Your Thinking (07:09) - Controlling Speaking Pace (09:16) - Authenticity vs. Adapting (13:42) - Scripted Talks (16:34) - Handling No Questions (20:09) - 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. 

Send us Fan MailYou are dependable. You are the one who keeps projects moving, smooths things over, and makes sure the work gets done. But when the promotion still does not come, it may be time to ask a different question: is the problem really you, or is the environment blocking your growth?In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton breaks down what an unsupportive work environment actually looks like for women leaders and how it quietly erodes confidence, visibility, and advancement over time. She introduces the A.N.C.H.O.R. Method, a six-step framework for assessing the pattern, naming what is happening, and responding strategically instead of absorbing it as personal failure.This is Part 2 of the three-part April visibility series, following Episode 160 on perfectionism. If perfectionism is the internal block, this episode explores the external one: the patterns in your workplace that can keep strong women leaders invisible.What You Will Learn:The six most common patterns of an unsupportive environment.How to tell the difference between a confidence issue and an environmental pattern.Why credit imbalance, biased feedback, and unequal access slow down advancement.How the A.N.C.H.O.R. Method helps you assess and respond with intention.What to do when you need clearer expectations, more visibility, or a more strategic response.Your Action Step:Use the first two steps of the A.N.C.H.O.R. Method this week:Assess the pattern over the last 60 to 90 days.Name it in one specific sentence.Mentioned in This Episode:Episode 160: How Perfectionism Keeps Women Leaders Invisible | Part 1 of 3Episode 158: The Sponsorship Gap: Why Women Get Mentored, Not SponsoredAbout Your Host:Kele Belton is a communication and leadership facilitator, coach, and consultant who helps high-performing women in middle management build the communication and leadership strategies that get them recognized, sponsored, and promoted.Connect with Kele:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kele-ruth-belton/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetailoredapproach/Website: https://thetailoredapproach.comBook a Leadership Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/kele-thetailoredapproach/leadership-strategy-call

James Schneider returns to the podcast to talk about Britains relationship to the United States of America, how this relationship is shaping the terrain of struggle in in the face of escalating imperialist aggression and the resulting economic turbulence this is causing. We also discuss his recent trip to Cuba as part of the Nuestra América Convoy.   James Schneider is a writer and political organizer. He serves as the Communications Director for the Progressive International and was Director of Strategic Communications for the Labour Party under the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn. He is the author of Our Bloc: How We Win (Verso books, 2022.) SUPPORT: www.buymeacoffee.com/redmedicineSoundtrack by Mark PilkingtonTwitter: @red_medicine__www.redmedicine.substack.com/

Keir Starmer has ordered an investigation into any security concerns relating to Peter Mandelson's tenure as UK ambassador to the US as he gave his side of events in a politically crucial statement in parliament. Joining Anton to assess the damage is James Lyons former Director of Strategic Communications for Keir Starmer.

Great communication isn't about saying more—it's about making what you say matter.If we want to communicate more effectively, we need to treat communication less like a habit—and more like a series of intentional choices. In this special feed drop, we're featuring a conversation from the ⁠Masters of Scale⁠ podcast, where host ⁠Jeff Berman⁠ sits down with Stanford lecturer and ⁠Think Fast, Talk Smart ⁠host Matt Abrahams to explore what it really takes to communicate with intention.Most of us default to what feels natural—long-winded openings, generic pitches, or focusing on what we want to say. But as Matt explains, effective communication starts with the audience. Get to the point quickly. Focus on what's relevant. “Tell the time, don't build the clock.”From high-stakes presentations to job interviews and everyday interactions, Matt shares practical, science-backed strategies for showing up with clarity and confidence. Communication is something we all do every day—but doing it well, especially when it counts, takes intention. As this conversation makes clear, small shifts in how we prepare, structure, and deliver our message can make all the difference.Episode Reference Links:Jeff BermanMasters of ScaleConnect: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 (04:02) - Communication as a Skill (04:32) - The Impact of Communication (05:10) - Prevalence of Speaking Anxiety (07:11) - Techniques for Reducing Anxiety (09:46) - Core Principles: Repetition, Reflection, Feedback (10:53) - Communication in Education (12:03) - Opportunities to Improve Communication (14:26) - Presenting & Pitching Ideas (16:41) - Setting Clear Expectations (19:58) - Characteristics of Productive Meetings (24:13) - The Role of Repetition in Leadership (25:03) - Structured Preparation for Interviews (26:29) - The ADD Framework for Responses (27:57) - Asking Insightful Questions (29:17) - Defining Communication Objectives (32:23) - Adapting Messages to Different Formats (33:38) - Building Confidence in New Mediums (34:48) - Recovering from Cognitive Lapses (36:14) - The Pace, Space, Grace Framework (38:09) - Navigating Differing Perspectives (40:01) - 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. 

Send us Fan MailAre you over-preparing for meetings, delaying stretch projects, or holding back ideas until they are "perfect"? You may be wondering why your leadership remains invisible.In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton breaks down 7 perfectionism patterns that keep high-performing women overlooked, even when they are delivering exceptional results.As Part 1 of a 3-part April series on closing the visibility gap (following The Visibility Gap and The Sponsorship Gap), this Thursday's deep dive reveals why perfectionism is not about high standards. It is the fear of being seen getting it wrong. This episode shares the P.A.C.E. Method to help you shift from perfecting to contributing. Kele uses real client stories, research from Dr. Rachelle Martin's study, and actionable steps to help you claim space without overworking.What You Will Learn:The Visibility Penalty: Why perfectionism creates a penalty for women leaders.The Double Bind: The pressure forcing women to be both assertive and flawless.7 Specific Patterns: Over-preparing, delaying opportunities, "one more win" requirements, self-silencing, under-communicating impact, fear of feedback, and micromanaging.Execution vs. Strategy: How perfectionism rewards execution but punishes strategic visibility.The P.A.C.E. Method: Pause, Assess, Communicate, and Evaluate to interrupt these patterns.The 70% Rule: Contribute at 70% confidence. It lands better than 100% hesitation.Your Action Step:Pick one pattern from the seven (e.g., over-preparing). Find one opportunity this week to interrupt it using the P.A.C.E. framework:Pause: Name the pattern.Assess: Determine the real standard (is 70% enough?).Communicate: Share your thinking early.Evaluate: Measure the actual impact delivered.Mentioned In This Episode:Episode 156: The Visibility Gap: Why Women Leaders Get OverlookedEpisode 158: The Sponsorship Gap: Why Women Get Mentored, Not SponsoredResearch: Martin, Rachelle L. (2024). Under The Surface of Perfectionism: A Qualitative Examination of Perfectionism in Women Leaders. UMSL Dissertations. 1488.About Your Host:Kele Belton is the CEO and founder of The Tailored Approach LLC. She is a leadership communication coach and consultant who specializes in helping women develop impact through practical leadership frameworks. Her podcast, Communicate to Lead, is ranked in the Top 10% of podcasts globally.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

Send us Fan MailAre you being told you're doing great work, getting feedback, and still not being considered for the big roles and high‑visibility opportunities that matter?In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton unpacks the sponsorship gap—why high‑performing women are often over‑mentored but under‑sponsored—and how you can start building the relationships that actually move you into the next level of leadership.If you've ever asked, “Why am I getting all this advice but still not getting promoted?” this episode will help you see the difference between mentorship and sponsorship, and how to close the gap. Kele shares a real client story, walks through the research on why women are over‑mentored and under‑sponsored, and gives you a practical, four‑step framework (the V.I.S.A. Method) to intentionally activate sponsorship in your own career.What you'll learn:Why many women leaders accumulate mentors but never get sponsors, and how this holds advancement backThree signs that you have a mentor when you need a sponsorWhy imitation bias and “who looks like us” patterns keep sponsorship unevenly distributedThe V.I.S.A. Method for turning mentor relationships into sponsorship relationshipsWhy the sponsorship gap is both a skills gap and a systems problem, and how to use this framework without blaming yourselfHow to tell when sponsorship is missing because of you versus when it's a sign of your environment—and how to use that as a data pointYour action step:Choose one senior leader in your orbit who already speaks positively about you and run the V.I.S.A. Method with them over the next 2–3 weeks.Start with a Visibility conversation, then follow up with a Strategic Alignment conversation naming your specific next goal, and close with a clear Ask for advocacy the next time a relevant opportunity comes up.Mentioned in this episode:Episode 131: Mentor vs. Sponsor: Why Women Leaders Need Strategic Advocates (Not Just Career Advice)The V.I.S.A. Method – your sponsorship activation framework (Visibility, Impact, Strategic Alignment, Ask) used in this episode Ignite Your Leadership Power Accelerator: Step out of the mentorship loop and into sponsorship conversations with structured support and advocacy‑focused communication training. Join the Waitlist HEREAbout your host:Kele Belton is a communication and leadership trainer, coach, and speaker who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.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

Real change isn't about knowing what to do — it's about actually doing it, one small choice at a time.Change doesn't come from one big breakthrough. It comes from the small choices we make over and over — often in moments we barely notice.Eric Zimmer, behavior coach, host of The One You Feed podcast, and author of How A Little Becomes A Lot, says the real challenge isn't figuring out what to do — it's closing the gap between knowing and doing. “We all have areas where we know exactly what would help,” he says. “But somehow, we still don't follow through.” His approach focuses on something simpler and more effective: small, low-resistance actions done consistently over time. “It's not about doing everything,” Zimmer explains. “It's about doing something — again and again — in the same direction.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Zimmer joins host Matt Abrahams to unpack how lasting change actually happens. From building awareness in the middle of everyday life to designing habits that are easier to stick with, he shares practical strategies for turning intention into action. “You don't need to wait until you feel ready,” he says. “You can act even when it's uncomfortable.”Episode Reference Links:Eric ZimmerEric's Book: How a Little Becomes a LotEric's Podcast: The One You FeedEp.86 Building Habits: The Key to Lasting Behavior Change 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 (02:24) - From Addiction to Transformation (03:34) - The “Two Wolves” Parable (05:19) - Awareness in Communication (06:53) - Building Awareness Through Small Habits (08:47) - The Knowing–Doing Gap (10:11) - The SPAR Framework (13:46) - Motivation vs. Action (18:31) - The Final Three Questions (23:58) - 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. 

Send us Fan MailAre you doing excellent work, hitting your numbers, and still getting passed over for bigger opportunities? In this episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton breaks down the visibility gap, why capable women leaders are often overlooked, and how to start being seen for the strategic value you already bring.If you have ever been told you are “not quite ready” or found yourself asking, “What more do I need to do?”, this episode will help you understand why good work alone is not always enough. Kele shares a powerful client story, explains why women are often overlooked even when they are performing well, and gives you three practical strategies to increase your leadership visibility without feeling like you are bragging.What you'll learn:Why the visibility gap happens in the first placeHow to shift from being seen as reliable to being seen as strategicThe Strategic Share: a simple way to talk about your impact more clearlyHow to create a Signature Project that makes your leadership visibleHow to make a Sponsorship Ask that opens the door to advocacyWhy visibility is built through intentional communication, not just hard workYour action step:Choose one person who could influence your next opportunity and have one Strategic Share conversation this week. Share one result you are proud of and one strategic direction you are moving toward.Mentioned in this episode:Episode 135: Stop Being Overlooked: 4 Steps to Increase Leadership Visibility in 2026Ignite Your Leadership Power Accelerator: Stop executing and start architecting your move to senior leadership. JOIN THE WAITLIST HEREAbout your host:Kele Belton is a communication and leadership trainer, coach, and speaker who specializes in helping women leaders develop confidence and impact through strategic communication and practical leadership frameworks.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

In May 2025 Ella Baron, a political cartoonist at The Guardian, travelled to Ukraine to record and reflect on the human impact of war. In collaboration with NGO Médecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), Ella met patients in a rehabilitation centre for war veterans in Cherkasy and a mental health clinic for internally displaced families in Vinnytsia. The Art & Conflict Hub is currently hosting an exhibition of the artwork Ella produced at the Arcade in Bush House until the end of April 2026, exploring the complex marks war leaves on the human body and mind. In this episode of the War Studies Podcast, Ella discusses her work as a political cartoonist and the exhibition "Battles of the Mind" with Dr Henry Redwood, co-convener for the MA in Political and Strategic Communications, and co-lead of the Art and Conflict Hub at the Department for War Studies. Experience "Battles of the Mind" at King's: https://bit.ly/4m33AIe You can find below the full Guardian article, and links to Ella's socials: https://bit.ly/4m6GQHv X: @ebaroncartoons IG: @ella_baron

Marc Cox speaks with Mary Vought, Vice President of Strategic Communications at Heritage, dissecting allegations that Ilhan Omar committed immigration fraud, highlighting past underenforcement under the Biden administration. The conversation pivots to broader concerns about DHS funding shortfalls affecting ICE, TSA, and cybersecurity amid heightened terror alerts. Vought and Cox also criticize California Governor Gavin Newsom's energy policies, linking them to sky-high gas prices and mismanagement, while questioning the state's presidential ambitions amid ongoing fiscal and social crises. Hashtags: #MaryVought #IlhanOmar #ImmigrationFraud #DHSFunding #TSA #ICE #CaliforniaGasCrisis #GavinNewsom #HeritageFoundation #DailySignal

0:30 - 'No Kings' protests draw large crowds in cities, towns across US 17:38 - I'm a Democrat. 'No Kings Day' is an embarrassment 37:20 - The murder of Sheridan Gorman and the stifling of Chicago 01:00:10 - Meet the ‘Puffer Fish’: The Worst Kind of Person to Date 01:15:14 - Steven Bucci served America for three decades as an Army Special Forces officer and top Pentagon official, is a visiting fellow in The Heritage Foundation’s Allison Center for Foreign Policy Studies. He joined Dan with reaction to the latest in Iran. 01:42:01 - Brian Lonergan Director of Strategic Communications & Content at the Federation for American Imigration Reform (FAIR) and Co-host of the “No Border, No Country” podcast: In Sanctuary Cities, American Lives Don’t Matter 01:56:58 - Ken Cuccinelli, National Chairman of the Election Transparency Initiative, former Virginia Attorney General, and former deputy secretary of DHS. Column: The Senate is walking a tightrope on the SAVE Act 02:15:16 - Father of Illinois ‘super mayor’ shot in Chicago as she calls for Trump to bring troops into Windy CitySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Roundtable Panel: a daily open discussion of issues in the news and beyond. Today's panelists are Professor of History and International Relations at Vassar College Robert Brigham, Preceptor in Public Speaking, Strategic Communications, and Public Relations for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University Terry Gipson, Professor in the History Department at John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) Allison Kavey.

Why mastering unspoken workplace communication is essential to long-term career success.Succeeding at work doesn't just depend on how hard you work or how smart you are. According to Erin McGoff, it often comes down to whether you understand the “secret language” everyone else seems to be speaking.McGoff is a career creator, Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, and author of The Secret Language of Work: Hyper Helpful Scripts for Every Situation. Known for her wildly popular AdviceWithErin platform, she helps millions of professionals phrase things more effectively — without sounding stiff or robotic. “It's this hidden curriculum to the workforce,” she explains, describing the unwritten rules of interviews, negotiations, and professional etiquette. “It's not written down anywhere. It's not equally distributed.” Her mission is to make those invisible rules visible — and usable.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, McGoff and host Matt Abrahams explore how to communicate with confidence, advocate for yourself strategically, and build a professional brand with intention. Confidence, she says, isn't fixed: “Confidence isn't binary. Confidence is a spectrum.” It starts internally, with how we speak to ourselves, and strengthens when we “get really good at what you do.”Episode Reference Links:Erin McGoffErin's Book: The Secret Language of Work202. Own Your Brand: How to Communicate with Presence and Impact 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 (04:56) - The Secret Language of Work (06:32) - Building Confidence (08:39) - Creating Your Professional Brand (10:00) - Setting Expectations at Work (12:31) - Advocate Strategically (14:34) - Mastering First Impressions (15:50) - Professional vs. Personal (18:19) - Interview Before, During, After (22:55) - Nonverbal Presence (23:19) - The Final Three Questions (27:18) - 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. 

In this episode of The Crossman Conversation, host John Crossman speaks with strategic communications expert and social impact leader Wendy J. Roundtree, APR, founder of Jarel Communications, about how purpose-driven storytelling helps organizations engage audiences and create lasting community impact. Drawing on her experience supporting public agencies, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations across sectors including education, health equity, philanthropy, and homelessness, Wendy shares practical insight on leadership and communications strategy. Named Trailblazer Professional of the Year by the Public Relations Society of America Sunshine District, an Orlando Magazine Woman of the Year, and a Woman Who Means Business by the Orlando Business Journal, Wendy offers valuable insight for professionals working in strategic communications, nonprofit leadership, public sector engagement, and purpose-driven organizations. “Wendy represents the very best in purpose-driven leadership—someone who understands strategic communications at the highest level and uses storytelling to create real impact in communities,” says Crossman. This episode is ideal for professionals interested in strategic communications, nonprofit communications, public sector leadership, and mission-driven storytelling.

How to communicate for deeper connection—and greater happiness.Happiness isn't just a feeling—it's something you can actively shape through how you think, connect, and communicate.Sonja Lyubomirsky, a distinguished professor of psychology at the University of California, Riverside and co-author of How to Feel Loved: The Five Mindsets That Get You More of What Matters Most, defines happiness as two key components: “being happy in your life and being happy with your life.” And while many people separate happiness from meaning or purpose, she explains that “they almost always go together.” Her research shows how the small habits we practice—like gratitude—can have a powerful effect, helping to “neutralize negative emotions” and shift how we see our lives. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Lyubomirsky and host Matt Abrahams explore the science of wellbeing and the habits that help us feel more fulfilled. From gratitude practices to breaking free from the comparison trap, they share practical strategies for boosting happiness and explain why connection isn't just about being loved, but truly “feeling loved.”Episode Reference Links:Sonja LyubomirskySonja's Book: How To Feel Loved179. Finding Positive in Negative Emotions: Communication, Happiness & Wellbeing180. Unlocking Your Future Self: Communication, Happiness & Well…181. Why Happiness is a Direction, Not a Destination: Communicat…182. Stop Chasing Time and Start Owning It: Communication, Happiness & Wellbeing  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 (04:50) - Defining Happiness (07:02) - Gratitude in Practice (07:45) - Acting Extroverted (09:42) - The Comparison Trap (11:40) - Reflection vs. Rumination (12:27) - Best Self Exercise (13:51) - Building Positive Psychology (15:16) - Happiness Drives Success (16:44) - Relationships as a Seesaw (19:04) - Being Known vs. Impressive (21:45) - The Final Three Questions (26:18) - 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. 

Russell Gold has spent years explaining the energy transition from the outside. First as one of The Wall Street Journal's leading energy reporters, and now from inside one of clean energy's fastest-growing new entrants, T1 Energy.At The Wall Street Journal, his award-winning work covered the fracking boom, Deepwater Horizon, and the investigation into the Camp Fire in California. He also wrote The Boom and Superpower, digging into the people, decisions, and forces shaping modern energy.Now, he's on the other side of the table.As EVP of Strategic Communications at T1 Energy, Russell is helping shape how a new U.S. solar manufacturer shows up to the market—and how that story connects to capital.In this conversation, we explore what that shift in perspective reveals. Where the industry is actually making progress. Where the bottlenecks persist. And why clean energy still struggles to tell a clear reliability story, even as deployment continues at record pace.We also dig into something most people underestimate: how much narrative influences where capital flows—and what leaders in this industry should be doing about it.Expect to learn:

With so much carnage in the news cycle, it's easy to overlook the wellbeing of the world's rainforests like the Amazon, the “lungs of the planet.” On today's show, host Esty Dinur is in conversation with Laurel Sutherlin of the Rainforest Action Network about the importance of protecting this precious resource from deforestation caused by industrial agriculture.  Sutherlin says that the world's rainforests are integral to global climate and the products that are being consumed in the US are destroying them. He wants more people to understand that deforestation is the second leading cause of the climate crisis and that's being driven by industrial agriculture like palm oil plantations. This is also a human rights story, says Sutherlin, as rainforests around the world are home to Indigenous peoples. The Rainforest Action Network works to hold the companies extracting resources and violating the human rights of Indigenous peoples accountable. Sutherlin says that the countries driving deforestation will often set up shell companies to shield themselves from accountability.  From March 21-18, the Palestinian-led Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement is calling for a boycott of Chevron. Sutherlin says that Chevron is a “poster corporation” for the destruction of the rainforests. In Ecuador they left hundreds of open pit oil pools throughout the rainforest, polluting drinking water and food sources. They also talk about the link between war and climate change, the shining examples of Indigenous leadership and climate activism, National Oreo Day in opposition to the Mondelēz International corporation, and the health of rainforests from Sumatra, to Borneo and the Congo.  Laurel Sutherlin is the Director of Strategic Communications at Rainforest Action Network, where he has worked on international conservation and human rights campaigns for over 15 years. Laurel also sits on the board of Directors of a bioregional, forest protection group in Oregon called the Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center (KSWild). He is a lifelong birder, naturalist and outdoor educator. He currently lives in Kingston, in the Hudson Valley of New York State, where he hosts a weekly live radio talk show program called Nature Nuggets. Featured image of a palm oil plantation in Indonesia. Did you enjoy this story? Your funding makes great, local journalism like this possible. Donate hereThe post Deforestation Won't End Because of Good Corporate Hearts appeared first on WORT-FM 89.9.

Memorable communication isn't about saying more—it's making the right idea stick. No matter how compelling a presentation feels in the moment, most of what you say won't last in your audience's memory. The key isn't trying to make people remember everything — it's ensuring they remember what matters most.Carmen Simon is a cognitive neuroscientist, author, and expert on how the brain pays attention and forms memories. Her research explores how communication can move beyond passive listening and become an experience the brain actually holds onto. “The way we come to know the world is through the interaction of brain, body, and environment,” she explains. “The more you invite your audiences to interact with anything, especially physically, the more you impact cognition.”In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast Talk Smart, Simon and host Matt Abrahams explore practical, research-backed ways to make communication more memorable. They discuss why handwriting notes can deepen understanding, how curiosity and tension capture attention, and why communicators should avoid overwhelming audiences with too much information. Instead, Simon encourages speakers to structure ideas so audiences can recognize patterns and return to a clear core message.Episode Reference Links:Carmen SimonCarmen's Book: Impossible to IgnoreEp.39 Brains Love Stories: How Leveraging Neuroscience Can Capture People's Emotions 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 (02:31) - Embodied Cognition Explained (04:44) - The Impact of Environment on Attention (06:08) - Sparking Curiosity in Your Audience (10:24) - Avoiding Cognitive Overload (14:48) - Using Visuals to Improve Recall (18:43) - 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. 

Strong communication isn't about saying things clearly. It's about being understood the way you intend.In this episode of The Executive Appeal, Alex D. Tremble sits down with Darrin Kayser, Executive Vice President at Edelman, the world's largest communications firm. With over 30 years of experience across government, military, and global organizations, Darrin shares what most executives misunderstand about communication at the highest levels.Together, they unpack why communication failures, not capability, are often the root cause of misalignment, resistance, and slow execution inside executive teams.In this episode, you'll learn:Why communication must be two way, not just top downHow empathy and listening build trust across stakeholdersWhy misalignment often comes from how messages are receivedHow to structure communication that actually drives actionWhy avoiding hard conversations creates bigger execution problemsThis episode is for you if:Your executive team is capable but not fully alignedConversations feel harder than they shouldYou're still clarifying decisions after meetingsMiscommunication is slowing execution across your organizationIf you want to better understand where trust, proactivity, and productivity may be breaking down on your team, take the free executive leadership diagnostic at gpsleadership.org/diagnostic.Listen now to learn how strategic communication builds trust, reduces friction, and helps your executive team move faster without everything rolling up to you.Follow and share this episode with another senior leader working to align their team.

People are forgetful. Here's how to make your messages more memorable.After any presentation, your audience will forget about 90% of what you said. That's okay, says Carmen Simon — just make sure they remember the right 10%.Simon is a cognitive neuroscientist, speaker, author, and expert on how the brain processes and retains information. Her research reveals a humbling truth: “We forget our lives almost as quickly as we live them,” she says. But instead of fighting our forgetfulness, Simon believes we can work with it — by getting intentional about what we want people to remember. “So many people aspire at attention and memory, but very few really know what they want to be memorable for,” she says. “Ask the question: what is my 10% message?”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Simon and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to distill your communication for maximum memorability. Whether you're pitching an idea or presenting to a team, Simon's practical techniques will help you ensure your 10% message is the one your audience takes away.Episode Reference Links:Carmen SimonCarmen's Book: Impossible to IgnoreEp.39 Brains Love Stories: How Leveraging Neuroscience Can Capture People's Emotions 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 (02:39) - Attention vs. Memory (05:15) - Novelty & Surprise (06:36) - Why Attention Isn't Enough (08:04) - The Power of Priming (09:37) - Priming in Business Communication (10:21) - Why Audiences Forget (13:32) - Smart Repetition (15:08) - The Final Three Questions (22:00) - 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. 

The secret to building habits that stick.Whether you want to read more books or exercise more regularly, BJ Fogg has good news. “Habits are easier to form than most people think,” he says, “If you do it in the right way.”As the founder and director of Stanford's Behavior Design Lab, Fogg has devoted much of his career to researching human psychology, motivation, and behavior. According to him, habit formation isn't a product of simply doing something over and over again. “It's not a function of repetition,” he says, “it's a function of emotion.”As Fogg discusses with host Matt Abrahams in this Rethinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, bringing our behavior in line with our goals is easier than we think — we just have to know the emotional levers to pull.Episode Reference Links:BJ Fogg Fogg's Book: Tiny HabitsConnect: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 (03:04) - The Information-Action Fallacy (04:47) - The Behavior Model: Motivation, Ability, Prompt (06:27) - Designing a Reading Habit (08:05) - What Is a Habit? (11:14) - Making Paraphrasing a Habit (13:51) - Specificity vs. Repetition (16:10) - Choosing Habits You Enjoy (17:08) - The Final Three Questions (22:25) - 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. 

Joe Piscopo's guest host this morning is Col. Kurt Schlichter, Attorney, Retired Army Infantry Colonel with a Master's in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College, Senior Columnist at Town Hall, and the author of the new book "Panama Red" Dr. Darrin Porcher, Retired NYPD Lieutenant, Criminal Justice Professor at Pace University and a former Army OfficerTopic: IED thrown at Gracie Mansion and security in NYC Liz Sheld, Editor of American GreatnessTopic: News of the day John Konrad, founder and CEO of gCaptain, one of the world’s most-read maritime news websites, and a member of the Pentagon Press CorpsTopic: Iran War Danny Coulson, Former Deputy Assistant Director of the FBI and Founding Commander of the FBI Hostage Rescue TeamTopic: Attack on Gracie Mansion Cristo Foufas, Broadcaster and royal commentator based in LondonTopic: Keir Starmer and his approach to Iran Ned Ryun, grassroots and conservative activism expert and founder & CEO of American MajorityTopic: News of the day Jim Hanson, President of World Strat and Former Green BeretTopic: Iran War Tim Young, Media Fellow for Strategic Communications at The Heritage FoundationTopic: President Trump's messaging on IranSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why beliefs can either cap our potential or push us toward possibility.What you believe about yourself could be holding you back. Fortunately, Nir Eyal says beliefs aren't truths — and you can choose new ones.Eyal is a former lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Stanford d.school, a celebrated author, and a renowned expert on human behavior and potential. His latest book, Beyond Belief, reveals how limiting beliefs — like “I'm a bad communicator” — quietly shape what we see, feel, and do. “A belief doesn't have to be true” to limit our potential, he says. But the same holds in reverse: a belief doesn't have to be true to expand who and what we can become. “Beliefs are tools, not truths. It just has to be useful.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Eyal and host Matt Abrahams explore how to identify the beliefs that hold us back — and how to replace them with ones that propel us forward. From keeping a belief journal to practicing perspective-shifting “turnarounds,” Eyal offers practical tips for rewriting the stories we tell ourselves and becoming the people we want to be.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Nir EyalNir's Book: Beyond Belief104. How to Change: Building Better Habits and Behaviors (And Getting Out of Your Own Way)115. Rethinks: 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:(00:00) - Introduction (02:45) - The Power of Attention (04:30) - The Hook Model & Surprise (06:55) - Structure vs. Novelty (08:50) - Identity & Limiting Beliefs (11:52) - Beliefs Vs. Facts (15:17) - The Four-Question Test (21:20) - The Final Three Questions (24:31) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

How to turn complexity into connection through clear communication.Communication in high-stakes moments isn't about saying more — it's about connecting better. For Jonathan Berek and Phil Polakoff, the most effective communicators don't rely on jargon or performance. They rely on empathy, listening, and stories that resonate.Both longtime Stanford Medicine leaders, Berek and Polakoff have spent their careers translating complex, emotional, and often urgent health issues for patients, colleagues, and the public. And they've learned that the message only lands when it's delivered at the right level, with the right intention. “Know your audience,” Berek says, describing the importance of “leveling” — communicating in language that meets people where they are, without talking down or over their heads.For both Berek and Polakoff, listening is the foundation. “The two most important skills in communication are empathy and listening,” Berek explains — not as soft skills, but as the core mechanics of trust. Polakoff agrees, pushing for directness and clarity: “I like a yes or a no. I don't like ambivalence or ambiguity.” And when it comes to being memorable, he's relentless about simplicity: “Think bold, start small.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Berek and Polakoff join host Matt Abrahams to examine what great communicators actually do: prepare deeply, speak concisely, listen with intention, and use storytelling to bring others along. Because as Berek puts it, “People feel the emotion when they see a story,” and emotion — paired with clarity — is what turns information into impact.Episode Reference Links:Phil PolakoffJonathan BerekConnect: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 (02:49) - Raising Awareness For Women's Cancer (03:46) - Redefining Health Beyond Disease (05:08) - Why Storytelling is Essential (07:08) - What Makes a Story Memorable (08:45) - Advice for Better Communication (09:46) - Making Complex Ideas Accessible (10:34) - Speaking at Your Audience's Level (11:57) - Listening & Empathy (12:39) - Improving Communication with Improv (14:08) - Communication for Collective Change (16:47) - Mentorship & The Big Picture (17:58) - The Final Three Questions (21:48) - 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. 

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.