Podcasts about Workplace communication

Get the 200+ Page Optimal Living Daily Workbook (PDF) - Free. Want to turn today's episode into an actionable plan? Join the Optimal Living Weekly newsletter and I'll send you our 200-page digital workbook immediately. It's packed with the best takeaways from the show, formatted for easy reading and implementation at home. Get your free PDF workbook here: https://oldpodcast.eo.page/join Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 2132: Christopher Dollard shares how a simple assertive communication formula, starting with "I feel" and "I need," transformed his relationship with a difficult manager. He explains how giving feedback this way keeps the other person from getting defensive and builds healthier working relationships, a piece of career advice that pays off far beyond the workplace. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gottman.com/blog/effective-feedback-workplace/ Quotes to ponder: "Because I used this assertive style, my manager listened and didn't get defensive." "In the months that followed, my manager not only treated me with more respect and offered more constructive feedback and direction, but our conversation also caused that manager to treat other employees the same way." "When we did fight, we fought in a healthy way." Optimal Work Daily is a daily career advice podcast where we narrate the best articles on productivity, entrepreneurship, and work-life balance, read to you by a professional narrator so you can grow your career a little more every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When there's a gap between our intention and our impact, we diminish others and our communication."The best leaders don't succeed because they have all the answers—they succeed because they bring out the best thinking in others. Liz Wiseman, executive advisor, CEO of the Wiseman Group, and author of the million-copy bestseller Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter, has spent years studying why some leaders amplify the intelligence around them while others unintentionally hold people back. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wiseman joins Matt Abrahams to explore the habits of multiplier leaders, the subtle ways well-intentioned managers accidentally diminish their teams, and how curiosity, trust, and thoughtful communication create environments where people can do their best work. Together, they share practical strategies for leading with greater impact by aligning your intentions with the experience you create for others.Key Takeaways:Great leaders multiply, not diminish. Create trust, ask more than you tell, and challenge people to do their best thinking instead of stepping in with the answers.Good intentions aren't enough. The most effective communicators pay attention to the impact of their actions, ensuring their support empowers others rather than unintentionally holding them back.Activity:Ask the multiplier question. At the end of your next one-on-one or team meeting, ask: "What do you need from me to do your best work?" Listen without jumping in to solve the problem. Focus on understanding what will help others think, contribute, and perform at their highest level.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Liz WisemanLiz's Book: Multipliers147. Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be212. Break It to Make It: Disrupt Your Way to the Perfect Job FitConnect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:55) - Multipliers vs. Diminishers (02:26) - The Habits That Hold Teams Back (03:54) - Safety, Stretch, & Trust (05:12) - Curiosity Over Control (06:56) - The Most Important Leadership Question (09:14) - Becoming an Impact Player (12:20) - When Good Intentions Backfire (15:54) - Accidental Diminishing (19:47) - The Final Three Questions (25:07) - Conclusion

“Managing emotions—yours and your audience's—is hard enough, but it's even harder when you're under pressure to respond."High-pressure communication doesn't have to derail your message. In this Think Fast, Talk Smart Ask Matt Anything episode, Matt Abrahams answers real-world questions from members of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Learning Community, sharing practical advice for communicating with confidence when the stakes are high. From managing cognitive load and regulating anxiety to leading uncertain conversations and running more engaging meetings, Matt offers actionable strategies for staying focused, connecting with your audience, and communicating with clarity under pressureKey Takeaways:Manage your emotions to manage your message. Reducing cognitive load through preparation and emotional regulation helps you think and communicate more clearly under pressure.Lead with your audience in mind. Whether navigating uncertainty or running meetings, acknowledging emotions, setting clear expectations, and tailoring your message helps people stay engaged and take action.Activity:Stress-test your message. Before your next high-stakes conversation or presentation, rehearse it once under mild pressure—set a timer, record yourself, or practice with a colleague. Notice where you lose clarity, then refine those moments before the real conversation.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 (01:07) - Speaking Under Pressure (04:01) - Calming an Anxious Audience (07:45) - More Engaging Meetings (12:33) - Communicating Change Without Fear (16:30) - Conclusion

Cindy Esliger explores why accountability has earned such a negative reputation and reframes it as one of the most empowering tools we can develop in our careers. Rather than treating accountability as punishment or as another way to criticize ourselves, she explains how it shifts our focus away from waiting for recognition and toward building confidence and control. In workplaces where expectations are often unclear and recognition is inconsistent, accountability becomes a way to reclaim personal power rather than relying on external validation. Cindy explains that many of us associate accountability with being harder on ourselves, admitting failure, or trying to earn recognition in systems that may never reward our efforts fairly. She distinguishes accountability from punishment by showing that accountability is forward-looking and rooted in growth, while punishment keeps us trapped in shame and self-criticism. She also explores how accountability applies not only to ourselves but also to creating clarity with others by setting expectations, documenting agreements, and encouraging follow-through. Cindy highlights how developing internal standards strengthens self-worth, improves decision-making, and helps us identify when to advocate for ourselves or move on from environments that no longer serve us. Cindy identifies five workplace warning signs that make healthy accountability difficult: 1. Vague expectations without clear deliverables, 2. Lack of consequences when others don't deliver, 3. Credit stealing goes unnoticed, 4. Shifting goalposts, and 5. Isolation when we are the only woman or one of very few. She also shares five practical strategies for building accountability in an empowering way: 1. Control the controllables, 2. Take care of our foundation, 3. Make small controllable changes, 4. Create rituals and routines, and 5. Encourage accountability in others. Accountability is not about working harder for someone else's approval. It is about building the confidence, evidence, and self-trust to create the career you truly want. Resources discussed in this episode: Guide to Reclaiming Your Power Through Accountability Astronomic Audio Confidence Collective — Contact Cindy Esliger  Career Confidence Coaching: website | instagram | facebook | linkedin | email Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

07-21-2026 Joan Hibdon Learn more about the interview and get additional links here: https://www.thetimesusa.com/how-decades-of-change-have-reshaped-workplace-communication/ Subscribe to the best of our content here: https://priceofbusiness.substack.com/ Subscribe to our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCywgbHv7dpiBG2Qswr_ceEQ

"It's not an accent, it's an identity."The way we speak shapes more than how we're understood—it shapes how we're perceived. Peter Novak believes the goal of communication isn't to eliminate an accent, but to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and authenticity. As a linguist, communication coach, and expert in accent bias, Novak helps multilingual professionals communicate more effectively while embracing the identity their voice represents. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, he joins Matt Abrahams to explore how accent bias influences the workplace, why clarity matters more than sounding "native," and the practical techniques anyone can use to communicate with greater confidence and impact.Key Takeaways:Clarity matters more than sounding native. Effective communication comes from making your message easy to understand, not eliminating your accent.Your accent is part of your identity. Multilingual communicators bring unique perspectives and strengths that should be embraced, not hidden.Activity:Focus on clarity. Record yourself explaining a familiar topic for one minute. Listen back and identify three words or phrases to emphasize and two places to pause. Record it again, focusing on clarity rather than sounding perfect, and compare the difference.Episode Reference Links:Peter Novak82. It's Not About You: Why Effective Communicators Put Others F… Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:52) - Accent Bias (03:55) - Accent and Identity (05:55) - Processing Fluency (08:25) - Clarity Over Perfection (10:26) - The Power of Prosody (15:33) - Speaking with Confidence (17:56) - The Final Three Questions (22:13) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.To see what Scribe could look like for your organization, head to scribe.how/thinkfast and mention Think Fast for your first month of Scribe Capture free. 

"The assumption of swift trust is really useful."Teams don't always need years to build trust—they need the right conditions to build it quickly. As a Stanford professor and expert in organizational design, Melissa Valentine studies how communication, team structure, and emerging technologies help people collaborate more effectively. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Valentine joins Matt Abrahams to explore how leaders can foster swift trust, adapt communication as teams move from brainstorming to execution, and use storytelling to drive meaningful change. Together, they share practical strategies for building stronger teams and navigating collaboration in an AI-enabled workplace.Key Takeaways:Build trust from the start. High-performing teams assume competence, communicate openly, and address miscommunication quickly.Adapt your communication to the task. Encourage diverse thinking during brainstorming, then align your language as the team moves toward execution.Activity:Practice swift trust. In your next project with a new colleague or team, begin by assuming competence and shared intent. Delegate one meaningful responsibility early, communicate clear expectations, and reflect afterward on how starting from trust influenced the team's collaboration and results.Episode Reference Links:Melissa ValentineMelissa's Book: Flash TeamsEp.241 Team Spirit: How to Make Group Work WorkEp.268 Going Viral: How To Balance Authenticity and Spectacle Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:57) - What Makes a Flash Team? (03:01) - Building Swift Trust (04:54) - When Teams Need to Converge (07:17) - Repairing Miscommunication (09:18) - Stories That Drive Change (12:01) - Lessons for Every Team (13:47) - The Final Three Questions (16:41) - 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.Most Work Platforms Help People Communicate.  Some help you organize, but Zoom turns conversations into outcomes. Try Zoom Mate today

Starting a new job, stepping into a new role, or joining a new organization? Your first few weeks can shape how people see you and how much influence you are able to build. In this episode, Pastor Q explains why the best way to make an impact is not to walk in trying to prove yourself. It is to learn, listen, build relationships, and consistently help the team move forward. In this episode: Why first impressions happen faster than you think The fastest way to build influence in a new organization Why relationships should come before recommendations How to contribute in meetings without overstepping The importance of learning the culture and its unwritten rules Why broken systems still require relational leadership How to create small wins early Why your job description is the baseline, not the limit The value of keeping a “yes” on your lips How to build a track record that leads to greater opportunity Key takeaway: Crush what you are responsible for, build strong relationships, and look for opportunities to help beyond your job description. That is how trust grows and influence is earned. Subscribe to the Just Lead podcast, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with someone stepping into a new role.

Send us Fan MailYou took the time off. It was yours to take. A vacation, a holiday weekend, a few days you genuinely needed. But it is your first morning back, and before you have even read a single message, you feel your shoulders tighten. The unread count is sitting there. And already, before you know anything about what is actually waiting for you, the apology is forming in your head.“So sorry for the delay.” “Apologies for being out.” “Sorry, just catching up now.”You have not done anything wrong. So why does returning to work after time off so often start with an apology for having taken it?Here is what most women leaders miss: the way you come back sets the tone for how your entire absence gets read. And you have far more control over that than you think.In this Monday Momentum episode of Communicate to Lead, Kele Belton unpacks the quiet habit that undermines women leaders the moment they return to work after time off: leading the re-entry with an apology instead of authority. She reveals what that apology is really buying you, why the habit of over-apologizing at work is so hard to break, and the small language shift that changes how your absence gets read.What You Will LearnWhy opening your first day back with an apology quietly frames your time off as a cost others had to absorb, and what that signals to leadership.The hidden reason the over-apologizing habit is so hard to break, and the permission you need to finally let it go.A specific language shift you can use the next time you return to work after time off, moving from apology to orientation so you come back sounding like a leader in command of what happens next.Your Action StepThe next time you return to work after time away, even a single day, notice the urge to apologize before you act on it. Catch one message you were about to open with “sorry” and rewrite it to open with your focus instead. One message. One shift. Then notice how differently you feel hitting send.AI Prompt (Copy-Paste Ready)Use this prompt to prepare for your first day back from time away. Paste it into your preferred AI assistant and answer the questions as they come.I'm a [role] in [industry]. I am returning to work after [time away, for example a holiday weekend or a vacation], and I have messages and conversations waiting for me. Help me come back sounding like a leader, not someone apologizing for having been gone.Ask me 3 questions:What am I actually walking back into, and what is waiting that needs my attention first?What am I tempted to apologize for, and is an apology genuinely warranted or just a habit?What do I want the people I work with to understand about my focus now that I am back?Then write:Two or three opening lines I can use on my first day back that communicate from a place of ownership and direction rather than apology.Constraints:Use a forward-facing toneNo apologetic language, no “sorry,” no framing my time away as an inconvenience to othersEach line should orient the reader to what I am prioritizing now that I am backMust sound like a leader managing a transition, not someone making up for lost timeAvoid softening language like “just,” “a little,” “finally,” or “I know I have been gone”The lines should feel grounded and self-assured when read out loudExample (output style)“I'm back and getting oriented. Here is what I am prioritizing first, and I will follow up on everything else by the end of the week.”Ready to Go Deeper?If you are ready to stop navigating your leadership growth alone, or you want help thinking through your specific situation, book a complimentary Leadership Strategy Call with Kele. We will talk through where you are, where you want to go, and what it will take to get there.Book your Leadership Strategy Call HEREAbout 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

In this episode of Stop Sabotaging Your Success, Cindy Esliger dives into why building professional relationships can feel uncomfortable, especially for women working in engineering, STEM, and other male-dominated environments. While technical competence matters, Cindy explains that career growth is also shaped by the informal networks we build through interaction. She discusses keeping everyone at arm's length to protect professional credibility and becoming the person everyone relies on emotionally, showing how both extremes can limit career opportunities, making a case for true connection. Cindy shares six common pitfalls that quietly undermine our success: 1. confusing boundaries with walls, 2. becoming everyone's person without receiving support in return, 3. dismissing connection as frivolous or unproductive, 4. showing up as all business and wondering why people think we're cold, 5. Letting fear of seeming weak prevent us from being human, and 6. assuming others will not reciprocate our first offer of connection. She also reframes three limiting beliefs that keep many professionals isolated. Strength is not handling everything alone. Workplaces are not always unsafe for authentic connection. Enduring is not the same as thriving. Cindy then shares practical strategies for building stronger relationships. Cindy emphasizes that engaging with colleagues is not a distraction from the work. It's part of the work. Strong professional relationships improve team dynamics, encourage innovation, create opportunities, and provide the reciprocal support needed to prevent burnout. She challenges listeners to begin with one simple action by asking a colleague a genuine question before their next meeting and listening with curiosity. Building meaningful professional relationships is a skill that grows with practice, and taking the first step can transform both career success and everyday work life. Resources discussed in this episode: Guide to Building Professional Connections Astronomic Audio Confidence Collective — Contact Cindy Esliger  Career Confidence Coaching: website | instagram | facebook | linkedin | email Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your boss asks what you need. You blank and say "nothing." You just turned down free money.Product Manager Brian Orlando and Enterprise Business Agility Leader Om Patel discuss and debate why that reflex costs you promotions, sponsorship, and credibility, and how to rewire it before your boss stops asking entirely. By the end, you'll have a five-line cheat sheet to pull from so you're never caught flat-footed again!Listen or Watch to learn:• Why saying "I'm good" trains your boss to stop offering help• The Benjamin Franklin Effect: how small asks build the relationship• Sponsorship vs. Mentorship: which gets you promoted• Why your impediment backlog is your best source• The difference between advocacy/visibility and credit-grabbingThis episode is for you if you're an individual contributor, team leads, or just someone who's ever felt frozen when offered help.#CareerDevelopment #WorkplaceCommunication #SponsorshipTransformed by Marty Cagan, Influence by Robert Cialdini, Benjamin Franklin autobiography, Sylvia Ann Hewlett (sponsorship research), L. David MarquetLINKSYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arguingagileSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/362QvYORmtZRKAeTAE57v3Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/agile-podcast/id1568557596INTRO MUSICToronto Is My BeatBy Whitewolf (Source: https://ccmixter.org/files/whitewolf225/60181)CC BY 4.0 DEED (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en)

Why Your Team Stops Telling You the Truth As companies grow, leaders often face an invisible challenge: they hear less of what's really happening. This isn't because employees are dishonest. It's because people naturally filter information when speaking to someone who holds authority over their career, compensation, and future opportunities. In this episode, Allison explores: How growth changes a leader's information environment Why teams begin filtering information The role power plays in workplace communication How leadership blind spots are created Why people stop raising concerns The hidden cost of operating on incomplete information Why asking for honesty isn't enough How to create psychological safety inside organizations The importance of trusted peers outside your business Key Question: When your team gives you an update, do you believe you're getting the full picture? If not, what have you done to make honesty truly safe? Resources: Think First: Stop Being the Bottleneck, Start Building Thinkers Deliberate Directions Leadership Development & Executive Coaching Think First

Today, I'm joined by Lee Caraher, CEO of Double Forte, entrepreneur, speaker, author, and PR leader with more than 40 years of experience helping organizations connect with the people who matter most. In this episode, Lee and I explore how communication has changed over the past several decades, why the role of professional communicators has become more important, and what it takes to communicate effectively across today's many channels. We talk about why great communicators listen first, how to prioritize communication when everything feels urgent, and why clarity is essential when working across generations, teams, and time zones. Whether you're leading a team, managing clients, navigating a busy inbox, or simply trying to communicate with more clarity and respect, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways. 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 Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leecaraher/ ► Learn more about Double Forte: https://www.double-forte.com/ ► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/ ► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com

“Communication is the number one way to remove friction.”If communication is the key to connection, then removing friction is what makes every interaction work. According to Vanessa Van Edwards, the most effective communicators aren't just skilled with words—they know how to align their gestures, body language, and presence to make others feel at ease. A behavioral researcher and bestselling author of Captivate and Cues, Van Edwards studies the subtle signals that shape how we are perceived. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, she joins Matt Abrahams to explore the hidden factors that influence communication, from purposeful gestures and expressive body language to the words, images, and visual cues that build trust and credibility.Takeaways:Great communication goes beyond words. Gestures, facial expressions, visual cues, and even the language we use in emails and meetings can either create friction or build trust, clarity, and connection.Focus on the other person, not yourself. By applying the Platinum Rule—treating others as they want to be treated—and intentionally putting people at ease, communicators can foster stronger relationships, deeper conversations, and greater influence.Activity:Practice the Platinum Rule. Before your next important conversation, meeting, or email, take one minute to answer: “What does this person need from me right now?” Then tailor your communication to their priorities, concerns, and preferred style—not your own. Afterward, reflect on how that shift changed the quality of the interaction.Printable PDF of Takeaways & ActivityEpisode Reference Links:Vanessa Van EdwardsVanessa's Books: Cues / CaptivateEp.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 (01:01) - The Importance of Strategic Communication (01:45) - The Power of Gestures (04:10) - A Readiness Check for Speakers (05:56) - Over-Signaling vs. Under-Signaling (08:18) - Dangerous Words in Communication (12:27) - Imagery Cues & First Impressions (15:03) - Virtual Backgrounds Matter (17:33) - The Platinum Rule (19:01) - The Final Three Questions (23:59) - Conclusion

Have you ever sent an email so polished it could double as a mirror—only for no one to act on it? Or delivered a change initiative so inspiring it left your team staring blankly at their screens? This week, Amanda Gilbert joins Jimmy and James to discuss the 4MAT model, a framework that might save your next communication from the recycling bin of irrelevance.This isn't about prettier PowerPoints or fancier fonts. It's about why your message should matter to anyone but you, what you're actually trying to say, how people might—might—do something differently, and what if they actually applied it. James, who is midway through writing his second book (a collection of corporate disasters, because nothing bonds a team like shared schadenfreude), serves as the live guinea pig. It turns out that even a book about epic failures needs a structure that doesn't just describe the wreckage but tells readers how to avoid driving off the same cliff.The episode is all about cutting through the noise. Whether you're rolling out a new policy, training a team, or just trying to stop your colleagues' eyes from glazing over, the 4MAT model forces you to ask: Have I made this about them, or just about me? (If your answer involves “cascading information” or “aligning stakeholders,” you've already lost.)Four key points:Corporate communication often fails because it's designed for the sender, not the receiver.The 4MAT model's four stages—why, what, how, what if—ensure your message lands, sticks, and (miraculously) prompts action.Without a clear “how,” even the most urgent “why” leaves your audience stranded.The best communication doesn't just inform—it provokes a behaviour change. If it doesn't, you've just wasted everyone's time.The 4MAT model isn't just for training—it's a universal tool for any communication, from emails to meetings, ensuring your message isn't just heard but acted upon.Got a question - get in touch. Click here.

The nonverbal habits that make you look confident, composed, and authentic before you even speak.How you carry yourself can shape how others perceive your confidence, credibility, and authenticity—often before you say a word. In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Matt Abrahams shares practical, research-backed techniques for strengthening your presence through body language, posture, gestures, and eye contact. Learn how to stand and sit with confidence, move with purpose, use your hands effectively, and avoid common nonverbal habits that can distract from your message. Whether you're presenting to an audience, leading a meeting, or navigating everyday conversations, these simple strategies can help you communicate with greater composure and impact. Episode Reference Links:Ep.12 It's Not What You Say, It's How You Say It: How To Communica…Ep.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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:59) - Be Big, Balanced, and Still (02:53) - The Right Speaking Stance (03:38) - Moving with Purpose (04:29) - Presence While Seated (05:15) - What to Do with Your Hands (06:00) - Gesturing Beyond Your Shoulders (08:29) - Effective Eye Contact (09:14) - Thinking While Speaking (09:59) - Bringing It All Together (10:46) - Practice Through Recording (11:32) - 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/smart

Practical communication strategies you can use immediately at work and beyond.How do you speak up when a conversation is moving faster than you can think? What should you do when emotions threaten to derail your listening? And how can you give honest feedback to a boss who doesn't seem interested in hearing it?In this Ask Matt Anything episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams answers listener questions from the Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community on some of the most challenging workplace communication scenarios. From practical techniques for inserting your ideas into fast-paced meetings to strategies for managing emotions and delivering feedback upward, Matt shares actionable advice to help you communicate with greater confidence, clarity, and impact.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 >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:02) - Speaking Up in Meetings (04:42) - Listening Through Emotion (07:58) - Giving Feedback Upward (13:29) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

Cindy Esliger addresses the uncomfortable truth that technical competence is really only the price of admission in today's workplace, not advancement, especially for women navigating male-dominated industries. We tend to believe that keeping our heads down and producing excellent work will naturally lead to advancement, but Cindy explains why career growth depends just as much on communication, relationship building, emotional intelligence, and political savvy. She discusses the double bind women face when developing these skills and why waiting for technical excellence alone to be recognized can quietly stall a career. As organizations evolve faster than ever, technical expertise without strong people skills can leave us stuck in individual contributor roles while others move into leadership. Cindy breaks down four common problems women often face in this environment: 1. The invisibility trap, 2. The likability penalty, 3. The catch-up cycle, and 4. The promotion pitfall. She also highlights six warning signs that career growth may be blocked, including avoiding office politics, staying too long in the same role, and struggling to communicate accomplishments in business terms instead of technical details. Cindy shares six practical strategies that focus on what we can control: 1. Start future-proofing your career now, 2. Be intentional about projecting both confidence and competence, 3. Develop soft skills with the same rigor as technical skills, 4. Think globally and stay ahead of change, 5. Prepare for transition before a promotion happens, and 6. Take inventory regularly and stay proactive about development. The workplace increasingly rewards people who can combine technical expertise with interpersonal skills. Cindy reminds us that these skills can be learned and that developing them creates more options and long-term career resilience.  Resources discussed in this episode: Guide to Future-Proofing Your Career Astronomic Audio Confidence Collective — Contact Cindy Esliger  Career Confidence Coaching: website | instagram | facebook | linkedin | email Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A lot of what we've been talking about lately is durable skills — the abilities that last regardless of how our tools and tech environment change. In today's episode, I want to step back from the AI conversation and focus on one of the most durable skills of all: feedback. We've all been on both the giving and receiving side, and we can probably count on one hand the times someone gave us feedback that genuinely drove a good change — that left us wanting to do better without feeling torn down. So how do we accomplish that kind of feedback, on both sides of the table? That's what this episode is all about. Start With Your Goal, Not Your Frustration: Before you give feedback, recognize that your gut impulse often comes from a negative emotion — frustration, feeling slighted, feeling disrespected. Those feelings are valid signals that something is off, but they aren't a sufficient reason to give feedback. Effective feedback is goal-oriented: ask yourself what you actually want to change before you say a word. Premature vs. Mature Feedback: Premature feedback is really about making sure someone knows how you feel — which can quietly turn into an attack so they share your pain. Mature feedback is forward-looking and aimed at improvement. Venting may give you catharsis in the moment, but if the behavior worsens or the relationship is damaged, the net outcome is negative. Why Asking for Feedback Changes Everything: Even hearing "can we meet for ten minutes, I have some feedback" measurably raises your heart rate and pushes you into a defensive state. But when you ask for feedback, your mind and body register that you're in control — same information, completely different physiological response. Make It Behavior-Based and Specific: Good feedback is about observable behavior — what a camera would have caught — not someone's core identity. If your feedback violates a person's self-concept (painting a competent engineer as incompetent), they have to change who they believe they are to accept it, and that gap rarely gets bridged in a 30-minute call. Use a Model — But Add the Intervention: The popular SBI model (Situation, Behavior, Impact) is a strong backbone, but it stops short. Don't just describe the past — partner with the person on what comes next. Think of it as SBI + Intervention: what can you commit to trying differently so the impact changes? That's where feedback becomes coaching. The Netflix Four A's: Aim to assist, make it actionable, show appreciation, and accept or discard. Lead with the intent to help, get specific about the behavior, appreciate the person's willingness and intent, and recognize that not every piece of feedback will be useful — both sides get to keep what's valuable and let the rest go. Receiving Feedback Well: When someone hands you messy, un-modeled feedback, you can walk them through the framework — "help me understand the situation, what behavior did you see, what was the impact?" People respect that you're engaging, shift into problem-solving mode, and give you more actionable feedback as a result. Episode Homework: Pay attention to patterns over time. One piece of feedback shouldn't be attached to your identity — but three or four that point in the same direction are worth introspecting on. Career development and feedback are two sides of the same door; walk through it and you grow.

What you'll learn in this episode Why listening—not talking—is the ultimate sales skill The 3 steps of the CPI framework: connect energetically, ask adept questions, actively listen How to uncover what clients are afraid to admit Why setting emotional expectations prevents frustration and blame How to turn predictable problems into opportunities for trust The difference between fake rapport and real connection Why influence is something you're given, not something you chase How authentic listening positions you as the trusted expert Teach to Sell Preorder: Teach to Sell: Why Top Performers Never Sell – And What They Do Instead To find out more about Dan Rochon and the CPI Community, you can check these links:Website: No Broke MonthsPodcast: No Broke Months for Salespeople PodcastInstagram: @donrochonxFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/NoBrokeMonths/Facebook: Dan RochonLinkedIn: Dan RochonTeach to Sell Preorder: Teach to Sell: Why Top Performers Never Sell – And What They Do Instead

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. 

Send us Fan MailKate McKinnon is the former Head of Human Resources at Playfly Sports, a leading sports media and marketing company. There, she led the People function through a fast-paced, high-growth phase - helping the company earn recognition as both a Most Loved Workplace and one of the Best Employers in Sports. Today, she leads her own consulting practice focused on empowering organizations by prioritizing their most valuable asset: people. Her work centers on:Leadership DevelopmentHR Strategy & Culture BuildingPersonalized Career Coaching-Quick Episode Summary:Kate McKinnon shares Human Resource insights, Philly sports, and kindness stories.-

What stops you from speaking up when it matters most?This week on Think Fast Talk Smart, we're featuring a special episode from TED Business. Healthcare leader Sarah Crawford-Bohl offers a practical, compassionate framework to have difficult conversations with clarity and heart — and shows how it can lead to stronger teams and real impact.TED Business is a podcast from TED that offers you a new idea and perspective for any business conundrum — whether you want to learn how to land that promotion, set smart goals, undo injustice at work, or unlock the next big innovation. Every Monday, host Modupe Akinola of Columbia Business School presents the most powerful and surprising ideas that illuminate the business world. After the talk, you'll get a mini-lesson from Modupe on how to apply the ideas in your own life — because business evolves every day, and our ideas about it should, too. Listen wherever you get your podcasts or here.Episode Reference Links:TED Business 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 (02:46) - If Not You, Then Who? (04:01) - The Cost of Silence (05:25) - Avoiding Conflict at Work (06:20) - Why Speaking Up Matters (07:30) - Building Courage Through Practice (08:40) - A Moral Compass for Conversations (12:01) - Handling Tough Feedback (17:41) - QORC Apology Framework (19:31) - 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.Unleash your Superhuman potential with AI that meets you where you work. Learn more at superhuman.comJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

Understanding the accent you didn't know you had.Whether communicating in our mother tongue or practicing a new language, we all speak with an accent. But that's not all, says Valerie Fridland — we hear with an accent as well.Fridland is a professor of sociolinguistics at the University of Nevada, Reno, and author of Why We Talk Funny: The Real Story Behind Our Accents. According to her, we don't just sound a certain way, we hear a certain way too, affecting how we understand others. “We're hearing with an accent — a bias shaped by our own language and experience,” she says. But instead of expecting others' communication to fit our preconceptions, Fridland says to meet people halfway. “If we want to make communication successful, it's not just their job as a speaker, it's my job as a listener.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Fridland and host Matt Abrahams discuss how empathetic listening opens the door to understanding. Whether you're communicating in a context of mutual intelligibility or attempting to bridge cultural and linguistic divides, Fridland's insights show how connection is a collaboration — shaped by accents on both sides of the conversation.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Valerie FridlandValerie's Book: Why We Talk FunnyEp.91 Um, Like, So: How Filler Words Can Create More Connected, Effective 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 (02:29) - The Role of Filled Pauses (04:53) - When Fillers Become a Problem (06:15) - Why We Don't Hear Our Own Accent (07:40) - Language Rhythm & Intonation (12:30) - Listening with an Accent (17:28) - The Final Three Questions (23:34) - 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. 

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. 

In this episode, we tackle something everyone recognizes, but no one has really tested until now: corporate bullshit.Inspired by recent research and a Cornell study on the Corporate Bullshit Receptivity Scale, we break down what corporate BS actually is, why it works, and what it says about both the people delivering it and the people buying into it.We also put it to the test with a game of “Is It Corporate BS?” and discover that real executive communication is often indistinguishable from complete nonsense.Along the way, we explore a troubling paradox: the people most impressed by corporate jargon may be the least equipped to make good decisions, yet they are often the most satisfied and inspired at work.As always, we remain the most regularly irregular podcast on the planet, recording only when inspiration strikes.Key TakeawaysCorporate BS is not just annoying, it can signal poor decision-making“Semantically empty” language sounds impressive but lacks meaningPeople who are more receptive to corporate jargon may rate leaders more highlyThere may be a feedback loop where BS-friendly employees elevate BS-speaking leadersSometimes corporate BS is not accidental, it can be used intentionally to obscure realityIf you cannot understand something, it is not always because it is smartLinks ReferencedCornell article on corporate BS:https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2026/03/workers-who-love-synergizing-paradigms-might-be-bad-their-jobsOriginal research on the Corporate Bullshit Receptivity Scale:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/400597536_The_Corporate_Bullshit_Receptivity_Scale_Development_validation_and_associations_with_workplace_outcomesEpisode HighlightsThe definition of corporate BS and how it differs from real jargon“Semantically empty” as the phrase of the episodeThe Pepsi and Microsoft examples of BS gone wrongWeaponized corporate BS in layoffsThe “Is It Corporate BS?” gameThe realization that we may also be part of the problemCome visit us at busynessparadox.com to see episode transcripts,  blog posts and other content while you're there!

Bob Knauf, Senior Product Marketing Manager at HP | Poly, spoke with Doug Green, Publisher of Technology Reseller News, during the Channel Partners Conference & Expo in a conversation that combined a look back at a distinguished career with a forward-looking view of workplace communications. As Knauf prepares for retirement after decades in the industry—dating back to the original Polycom SoundStation—he reflected on the evolution of communication technologies and the enduring importance of voice. Despite the rise of mobile and digital collaboration tools, he emphasized that desk phones remain critical in many environments, particularly for frontline workers, healthcare, retail, and regulated industries. “HP is committed to creating products that help people communicate and collaborate better,” Knauf said. The discussion highlighted HP | Poly's new Edge V series of open SIP phones, designed to modernize workplace communications with improved usability, HP branding, and the high-quality audio experience that Poly is known for. The devices incorporate advanced technologies such as NoiseBlock and Acoustic Fence, along with new capabilities to reduce reverberation, ensuring clear, full-duplex conversations even in noisy or open environments. Knauf also pointed to strong channel opportunities tied to the broader HP | Poly ecosystem. MSPs and partners can pair the Edge V phones with a full portfolio of headsets and services, enabling them to deliver complete communication solutions across industries. This integrated approach allows partners to expand revenue streams while improving customer experience. As the industry continues to evolve, Knauf's perspective underscores a key takeaway: innovation in communications is not about replacing voice, but enhancing it. His career—and HP | Poly's continued investment—reflect a long-standing commitment to making human communication clearer, more reliable, and more effective. Learn more about HP | Poly: https://www.hp.com/us-en/poly.html

Whatever your message, the manner in which you deliver it is just as important.You found the right words. You picked the right time to say them. You even tailored them to your audience. Why did your message fall flat? “It's your tone,” says Jefferson Fisher.Fisher is a trial attorney, New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and one of the most-followed experts in communication today. From handling high-stakes communication in the courtroom to navigating everyday conversations, he says successful messaging isn't just about what you say, but how you say it. “It's not your words, it's your tone,” he says, “The words might be right, but the way you [say them] — that's what ends up controlling the day. Tone controls everything.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Fisher and host Matt Abrahams explore how to set the right tone in all kinds of communication. Whether you're navigating conflict, giving and receiving feedback, or just trying to connect, Fisher offers practical techniques for ensuring the manner of your communication matches what you mean.Episode Reference Links:Jefferson FisherJefferson's Book: The Next Conversation WorkbookJefferson's Podcast: The Jefferson Fisher PodcastEp.228 Negotiate Your Way to Success: Empathy, Mirroring, and Labeling 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 (02:28) - Stop Winning Arguments (04:02) - Ask, Don't Persuade (04:33) - Defuse Tension Fast (05:40) - Read the Room (07:36) - Observing vs. Absorbing (09:08) - Framing Conversations (11:21) - Fix Digital Communication (13:01) - Improve Your Tone (15:53) - Break People-Pleasing (17:18) - Setting Clear Boundaries (20:54) - The Final Three Questions (23:55) - 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.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. 

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. 

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. 

In this episode, Cindy Esliger discusses why receiving feedback can feel so emotionally overwhelming and how it can quietly derail careers if left unchecked. She describes the common experience of replaying performance reviews long after they happen, questioning our abilities, and letting a single piece of criticism overshadow everything else. Cindy focuses on how feedback often triggers imposter syndrome, especially in environments where scrutiny already feels high, and why learning to process criticism effectively is essential for building a resilient and successful career.  Cindy explains that our reactions to feedback are deeply connected to how our brains process perceived threats. Because of the brain's negativity bias, criticism can trigger a stress response that makes us defensive, emotional, or stuck replaying the conversation. She also highlights three red flags to watch for when receiving feedback, helping us recognize when criticism is useful and when it may simply be noise: 1. Distinguish between vague personal attacks and specific behavior-based feedback, 2. Pay attention to timing and setting, and 3. Notice when we start adding our own story.  To help us manage feedback more effectively, Cindy shares eight practical strategies for handling criticism without spiraling and instead turning it into useful information: 1. Pause before reacting to interrupt the emotional response, 2. Develop a feedback filter, 3. Seek clarification when feedback is vague or unclear, 4. Reframe the story we're telling ourselves about the feedback, 5. Look for patterns over time, 6. Respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively, 7. Practice gratitude for the information, and 8. Restate and paraphrase the feedback to confirm understanding. By approaching criticism with curiosity and intention, Cindy reminds us that feedback doesn't have to become a spiral of self-doubt. Instead, it can become a powerful tool for growth, self-awareness, and building the career we truly want. Resources discussed in this episode: Guide to Handling Feedback Gracefully Astronomic Audio Confidence Collective — Contact Cindy Esliger  Career Confidence Coaching: website | instagram | facebook | linkedin | email Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. 

You know the feeling.Their name pops up on your calendar and your stomach drops just a little.They are not low performers. They are actually delivering.But something about the dynamic makes leading them harder than it needs to be.In this episode of Real Talk: Leading Small Teams, we break down three common archetypes that trigger leaders and how to handle each one without avoiding hard conversations.In this episode, you'll learn:Why “Praise-Seeking Polly” may not actually feel recognized, even when you think you are praising themWhat “Mindy the Mope” might be signaling about role fit and strengths alignmentWhy “Defensive Dan” reacts to feedback and how to lower defensiveness without walking on eggshellsHow to anchor feedback in shared expectations so high performers stay coachableIf you have someone on your team who makes you want to cancel your one-on-ones but is technically doing a good job, this episode will help you shift from frustration to strategy.

Practical insights to help you communicate with more intention in everyday moments.What's the difference between reacting and responding? How do you move from memorizing your words to truly conversing in the moment? And how do you keep growing as a communicator in everyday moments?Communication isn't about having the perfect script. It's about staying present enough to respond with intention. In fast-moving conversations, emotions rise, thoughts race, and structure can disappear. Yet it's in the pause — the breath before we speak — that clarity begins.In this Ask Matt Anything episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Matt Abrahams shares highlights from a recent live AMA inside the Think Fast, Talk Smart Learning Community. Listener questions open the door to practical strategies for navigating emotional conversations, relying on structure rather than memorization, and building communication habits that actually stick. Because becoming a better communicator isn't about getting it perfect — it's about making small, intentional choices every day.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 (02:31) - From Reacting to Responding (04:25) - Memorization vs. Spontaneous Speaking (09:35) - Growing Vocabulary (13:34) - Asking for Better Feedback (17:28) - Value of the Learning Community (21:51) - 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. 

Free Speech, Cancel Culture, and the Mental Health Benefits of Speaking Up: Clinical psychologist Dr. Chloe Carmichael, author of “Can I Say That? Why Free Speech Matters and How to Use It Fearlessly,” frames free expression as a mental health and problem-solving issue amid rising polarization, self-censorship, and cancel culture. Carmichael says authentic speech deepens cognition, aids emotional regulation, and strengthens social support, while chronic suppression can lead to repression, denial, anxiety, depression, and resentment. She describes fear and professional risk after publicly opposing child masking during COVID and argues that labeling speech as “violence” distorts reality, though true threats and incitement differ from words. She distinguishes self-censorship from healthy restraint, offers the WAIT test (Want, Appropriate, Inoculate, Trust), and discusses groupthink, innovation, misinformation debates, time-place-manner limits, and examples from corporate and university settings.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with clinical psychologist Dr. Chloe Carmichael, author of “Can I Say That? Why Free Speech Matters and How to Use It Fearlessly.”

Rejection sensitivity and communication challenges at work are often misunderstood, especially for adults with ADHD. In this episode of Adulting with ADHD, Sarah talks with leadership coach and CEO of Collaborate Consulting, Trystan Reese, about how rejection sensitivity can affect workplace interactions and self advocacy. Trystan shares how understanding brain based differences can help people approach work challenges with greater clarity and confidence. Together, they explore why asking for support can feel difficult, how fear of negative feedback can influence behavior, and how small shifts in communication can improve workplace experiences for neurodivergent employees. This conversation offers a practical reframe: instead of focusing on what feels hard, we can focus on what helps communication feel clearer and more effective. In this episode, we talk about: What rejection sensitivity is and how it relates to ADHD Why feedback can feel challenging in professional settings How to think through possible outcomes before making requests The difference between emotional discomfort and real risk Why preparation and practice support better communication How to align requests with shared workplace goals Why body awareness and regulation can help before difficult conversations How self understanding supports self advocacy Trystan also shares practical tools and examples, including: A step by step approach for evaluating concerns Ways to request clearer expectations or meeting information Simple communication scripts for everyday situations Why practicing conversations can increase confidence How reframing internal narratives supports growth If workplace communication feels stressful or uncertain, this episode offers a supportive and realistic approach focused on clarity, preparation, and self trust rather than fear or perfection. Resources mentioned: Collaborate Consulting Trystan Reese coaching and training services Neurodivergent leadership and workplace inclusion programs  

How to design meetings with purpose so they actually move work forward.Meetings are a necessary part of work. But for many people, they're also a major source of frustration. According to Rebecca Hinds, meetings don't have to feel like a drain—better meetings start when we stop treating them as a default and start designing them with intention.Hinds is the author of Your Best Meeting Ever: Seven Principles for Designing Meetings That Get Things Done, and a future-of-work expert who founded the Work Innovation Lab at Asana and the Work AI Institute at Glean. She argues that the problem isn't meetings themselves, but the sheer number of poorly designed ones, and by being more thoughtful about what actually deserves synchronous time, teams can redesign how they communicate in the workplace “Meetings are the most important product in our entire organization, and yet they're also the least optimized,” she says. “The first step is recognizing we need to be much more intentional about how we're designing meetings.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Hinds and host Matt Abrahams discuss why meetings so often go wrong—and what it takes to make them work. Whether you're leading a team, trying to protect focus time, or simply hoping to spend less of your week in calendar invites, Hinds offers practical frameworks for designing meetings with purpose so they become a tool people actually value.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Rebecca HindsRebecca's Book: Your Best Meeting EverEp.124 Making Meetings Meaningful Pt. 1: How to Structure and Organize More Effective Gatherings Ep.125 Making Meetings Meaningful Pt. 2: Key Ingredients for Effective Meetings 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 (01:42) - Why Meetings Feel Broken (02:57) - The Default-To-Meeting Problem (03:50) - Treat Meetings Like A Product (05:10) - Meeting Doomsday Reset (06:40) - The 4-DCEO Test (08:43) - Designing Better Meetings (10:05) - Creating a Meeting Agenda (12:58) - Context And Meeting Fatigue (14:06) - Memo-First Meetings (16:11) - The Final Three Questions (21:02) - 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.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.

Send us a textYou are in a high-stakes meeting making a critical point, and suddenly you realize you have been talking for minutes straight. You see a peer check their phone; you see a stakeholder's eyes glaze over. Your instinct is to apologize or trail off, but in senior leadership, that is a power leak. It is time to trade the apology for a strategic reset.WHAT THIS EPISODE IS ABOUT Welcome to the inaugural Monday Momentum episode: a new weekly series designed to give you one high-impact strategy in five minutes to start your week strong.Please note: These Monday episodes are a new addition to our schedule. Our signature, deep-dive masterclasses will continue to drop every Thursday as usual. Monday Momentum is here to give you an extra boost of tactical, executive-level tools to use immediately.In this debut session, Kele Belton addresses a challenge that even the most seasoned women leaders face: the habit of over-explaining. When you add layer upon layer of context, you risk being seen as who executes tasks rather than a strategic leader. Kele teaches you The 60-Second Reset, a three-step framework to self-correct in real time, demonstrating the executive-level agility that commands a room.WHAT YOU'LL LEARNThe 60-Second Reset: A high-status framework to recover gracefully when you catch yourself over-explaining, without undermining your authority.The "No-Apology" Pivot: Four specific redirect phrases that allow you to cut the ramble and refocus the conversation instantly.The Bottom-Line Rule: The art of stating your actual point in one clear, high-stakes sentence.Strategic Engagement: How to invite others into the conversation to shift focus from your recovery to collective problem-solving.Agility as Status: Why real-time self-correction is a leadership skill that signals command and professional awareness.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

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

Send us a textWork Slop: Why AI Shortcuts Are Costing Teams More Than They SaveEver get an email, doc, or deck from someone and instantly think, “This is… not it”? In this episode, we're digging into the rise of work slop—the vague, messy, low-quality output that shows up when AI is used as a replacement for thinking instead of a tool for support.Kendra sits down with Sue Justice, founder of Emory HR, to talk about why this isn't just an AI problem—it's a performance, communication, and leadership problem that businesses can't afford to ignore. We explore:What “Work Slop” Is (and Why It's Growing)How AI-generated work becomes unclear, incorrect, or incompleteWhy “slapping something together” shifts work to the next personThe difference between using AI as an assistant vs. letting it do the job This Isn't a Tool Issue—It's a Behavior IssueHow people have always “phoned it in,” but AI makes it faster and more visibleWhy audiences and teammates can sense when work lacks human touchThe real question leaders must ask: workload problem or character problem?What Leaders Should Do About ItWhen to coach and when to treat it as a performance issueWhy a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) matters before cutting tiesHow industry risk, trust, and legal exposure shape your response Where AI Helps—and Where It Shouldn't LeadUsing AI for brainstorming or templates vs. high-stakes decisionsWhy contracts and policies need human tone, context, and accountabilityThe risk of letting AI output become “authority” without review Sue's Biggest Marketing LessonWhy business owners shouldn't try to do everything themselvesHow doing the wrong work wastes more time than it savesThe sustainability link between delegation and quality Whether you're leading a team, outsourcing work, or using AI in your own business, this episode is a clear reminder: AI can save time, but only if humans own the standard. If the quality drops, the cost doesn't disappear—it just lands on someone else. “AI is meant to be an assistant… not the end-all ‘I'll do it for you' solution.” – Sue Justice 00:00:00 Introduction to Sue Justice and why HR belongs in this conversation 00:02:06 What “work slop” is and how it shows up at work 00:03:39 Why AI misuse is really a people/performance issue 00:06:53 Skill gap vs. character flaw: how to tell the difference 00:09:57 When work slop becomes a firing-level problem 00:13:05 Transparency, AI policies, and setting clear standards 00:19:01 AI adoption is everywhere—whether companies admit it or not 00:23:04 Sue's biggest marketing lesson as a business ownerConnect with Sue Justice:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanajustice/Website: https://emeryhr.com/ Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here

Trust and empathy are critical leadership currencies in today's uncertain business landscape, especially when navigating internal communications and team dynamics.In this episode of High Octane Leadership, host Donald Thompson engages with Bianca Freedman, CEO of Edelman Canada, to explore effective leadership strategies, building trust, and creating psychological safety in the workplace. As the youngest regional CEO in Edelman's global network, Bianca shares insights from leading 300 employees across five offices and achieving strong double-digit growth.What You'll Learn:Build trust and alignment through clear, consistent communication—focusing on everyday messaging, visibility, and proximity with teams.Model psychological safety by addressing mistakes openly and prioritizing solutions over spin to maintain both internal and client trust.Lead with authenticity by grounding thought leadership in genuine curiosity and delivering real value.Accelerate career growth by excelling in current responsibilities while actively seeking learning opportunities for future roles.About the Guest(s)Bianca Freedman is the CEO of Edelman Canada, where she oversees strategy, operations, and culture across five offices and nearly 300 employees. Appointed in 2022 as the youngest regional CEO in Edelman's global network, she has led the organization to strong double-digit growth and numerous creative accolades, including top ranking at Cannes Lions 2024. Under her leadership, Edelman Canada has earned recognition as one of the best workplaces in Canada and best workplaces managed by women in 2025. In this episode, Bianca shares valuable insights on building trust in uncertain times, effective internal communications, and creating psychological safety in the workplace, drawing from her experience leading a major professional services organization through complex business environments. Her practical approach to leadership and focus on empathy-driven decision-making offers valuable lessons for both emerging and established business leaders.Resources:Bianca Freedman LinkedInEdelman LinkedInEdelman WebsiteHigh Octane Leadership is hosted by The Diversity Movement CEO and executive coach Donald Thompson and is a production of Earfluence.Order UNDERESTIMATED: A CEO'S UNLIKELY PATH TO SUCCESS, by Donald Thompson. High Octane Leadership is hosted by The Diversity Movement CEO and executive coach Donald Thompson and is a production of Earfluence.Order UNDERESTIMATED: A CEO'S UNLIKELY PATH TO SUCCESS, by Donald Thompson.

Why good communication requires presence, not performance.Effective communication isn't about perfecting your performance. According to Dr. Kate Mason, it's about being powerfully present.Mason is a world champion debater, executive communication coach, and author of the book Powerfully Likable. In her work coaching senior executives to communicate more effectively, she emphasizes that it's not about creating a performative persona, it's about uncovering the authentic communicator you already are. “The coaching is just bringing the real parts of you to the fore,” she says, “uncovering rather than totally building from scratch. A lot of people come to me and say, I need to be more warm or more insert adjective here. And I say, I'm not gonna help you be more warm if that's not what's coming naturally to you. I am gonna help you work out the thing you're already doing, the thing you're already saying, how to make that comfortable for people around you.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Mason and host Matt Abrahams discuss strategies for more present communication. From avoiding "imposing syndrome” to reducing “the delta between your real self and that corporate persona,” Mason's insights explore how we can bring more of our true selves to the table.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Dr. Kate MasonKate's Book: Powerfully LikeableEp. 210 First Impression to Lasting Impact: Use Status Strategically 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 (02:32) - Why Confidence Is the Wrong Goal (03:55) - Bridging Your Real and Work Selves (05:27) - What Is Imposing Syndrome? (07:01) - Catching Yourself Shrinking (08:58) - Rethinking Imposter Syndrome (10:15) - Assertive vs. Agreeable (12:40) - Naming Your Communication Style (15:38) - What You Say vs. How You Show Up (17:43) - Body Language That Signals Openness (19:04) - Executive Messaging Lessons (22:01) - The Final Three Questions (26:51) - 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. Go to Quince.com/ThinkFast for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.

The Fastest Way to Earn Trust in Business with Communication Expert Rachel DeAlto #238 Want stronger relationships, better leadership, and real influence? Watch this episode. A FREE COPY OF JEFF'S Book DiscernmentIn this conversation, Jeff Dudan sits down with communication + connection expert Rachel DeAlto (author of Relatable and The Relatable Leader) to talk about why modern “networks” are often wide but shallow—and what actually builds trust in business and life. They get into instant connection cues, curiosity as a skill, why respect is the foundation of leadership, how response time signals value, and how to show up online without sounding scripted or fake. Connect with Rachel: Website: racheldealto.com Books: Relatable + The Relatable Leader LinkedIn: Rachel DeAlto Instagram: @racheldealto If you got value from this, subscribe and share it with one person you respect—then go take care of each other. #Unemployable #JeffDudan #Leadership #RelatableLeader #CommunicationSkills #EmotionalIntelligence #Trust #Respect #TeamCulture #Management #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #Networking #RelationshipBuilding #PersonalDevelopment Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Fastest Way to Earn Trust in Business with Communication Expert Rachel DeAlto #238 Want stronger relationships, better leadership, and real influence? Watch this episode. A FREE COPY OF JEFF'S Book DiscernmentIn this conversation, Jeff Dudan sits down with communication + connection expert Rachel DeAlto (author of Relatable and The Relatable Leader) to talk about why modern “networks” are often wide but shallow—and what actually builds trust in business and life. They get into instant connection cues, curiosity as a skill, why respect is the foundation of leadership, how response time signals value, and how to show up online without sounding scripted or fake. Connect with Rachel: Website: racheldealto.com Books: Relatable + The Relatable Leader LinkedIn: Rachel DeAlto Instagram: @racheldealto If you got value from this, subscribe and share it with one person you respect—then go take care of each other. #Unemployable #JeffDudan #Leadership #RelatableLeader #CommunicationSkills #EmotionalIntelligence #Trust #Respect #TeamCulture #Management #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #Networking #RelationshipBuilding #PersonalDevelopment Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The right rituals—and the right conversations—can transform how your team collaborates.Strong collaboration starts with thoughtful practices and clear communication. As Molly Sands, Head of the Teamwork Lab at Atlassian, emphasizes, the teams that thrive are the ones that regularly pause to align on what matters and how they're progressing. “You want to know if you're making progress,” she notes, “and you want ways to redirect early—before you're scrambling at the end.”Through her research with teams across Atlassian and around the world, Sands has seen how small, consistent habits—monthly goal reviews, transparent updates, shared spaces for spontaneous interaction—build alignment, psychological safety, and momentum. And in hybrid and distributed environments, she highlights how “bursty” collaboration patterns and intentional meeting design help teams move faster without burning out.In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Sands and host Matt Abrahams break down the rituals that make teamwork work, from OKR check-ins to collaboration hours to the rotating Chief Vibes Officer. No matter where your team sits, Sands shows how intentional communication unlocks connection, speed, and more satisfying ways of working together.Episode Reference Links:Molly SandsEp.241 Team Spirit: How to Make Group Work WorkConnect: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 (02:43) - Measuring Collaboration the Right Way (05:35) - Training Leaders & Goal Rituals (07:49) - Creating Space for Spontaneous Work (11:20) - Making In-Person Time Count (11:44) - Three High-Impact Team Gatherings (14:00) - Supporting Diverse Communication Styles (16:08) - 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. Go to Quince.com/ThinkFast for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Join our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be.

The secret to effective teamwork and collaboration.To collaborate, we have to communicate. As Molly Sands knows, “The more that we can get on the same page, the more effective we are.”Sands is a behavioral scientist and the head of the Teamwork Lab at Atlassian, where she researches how teams can collaborate more effectively and efficiently, especially in distributed and hybrid work environments. As she's seen in her research and within her own team, “People can accomplish a lot more together when they work well together.” The key to unlocking that potential lies in communication that aligns people not just in their activity, but in their deeper goals and vision. “The best work happens when you start by asking why,” she says, “getting people to really understand: why is this a problem, why do we wanna solve it, and how are we uniquely positioned to do that? The more that we can map this out together, the more effective our teams tend to be.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Sands and host Matt Abrahams discuss strategies for effective collaboration, from “page-led” meetings and asynchronous video messages to using AI as a collaborator. Whether your team is working face-to-face or across time zones, Sands' insights show how better communication is the key to better collaboration.Episode Reference Links:Molly SandsEp.241 Team Spirit: How to Make Group Work WorkConnect: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 (02:32) - How the Teamwork Lab Works (04:03) - Top Challenges for Teams (04:37) - Clarifying Goals & Alignment (07:19) - AI as a Collaborative Partner (09:25) - Atlassian's AI Onboarding Buddy (12:49) - Rethinking Meetings (15:58) - Three Types of Work Time (17:17) - Replacing Meetings with Asynchronous Video (20:02) - The Final Three Questions (24:11) - 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.

Why good communication is the key to good communities.Community and communication go hand-in-hand. For Sandy Pentland, the culture and cohesion of any group “has to do with the stories [people] tell each other.”Pentland is a professor at MIT, where he helped create and direct the MIT Media Lab. As a pioneer in computational social science, he's using data to map social networks and decode communication. In his latest book, Shared Wisdom: Cultural Evolution in the Age of AI, he explores the interplay between human culture, technological development, and societal change — arguing that communication is the tool that enables groups to achieve these advancements and to cohere throughout them. “Stories are the stuff of culture,” he says. “Sharing stories educates the community… defining the worldview and culture of that group.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Pentland and host Matt Abrahams explore what our communication patterns reveal about group dynamics and organizational health. From the “honest signals” in our interactions to strategies for strengthening remote work connections, Pentland shares how better communication can fuel more connected communities.Episode Reference Links:Sandy PentlandSandy's Book: Shared WisdomEp.137 When Words Aren't Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal Communication Ep.65 Ties That Bind: Why Remote and Hybrid Teams Need the Right Connection 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 (02:19) - Honest Signals & Human Behavior (04:12) - The Sociometric Badge Research (05:42) - Human Connection in Remote Work (06:59) - Organizations as Networks (09:31) - How Ideas Spread in Groups (12:42) - Bringing the Right People Together (14:10) - Stories as Cultural DNA (16:53) - The Final Three Questions (21:51) - 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. Go to Quince.com/ThinkFast for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. 

Transform how you communicate with tools that make your message stick.Meetings are where collaboration happens — but too often, scheduling them feels like the biggest barrier to meaningful connection. That's why Calendly was created: to simplify scheduling and make time for what truly matters — the conversation itself.In this episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Tech Tools miniseries, host Matt Abrahams talks with Calendly's Vice President of Growth, Darren Chait, about how intentional scheduling leads to better communication, stronger relationships, and more productive meetings. They explore how data-driven insights can improve collaboration, reduce burnout, and help teams make every meeting count.In addition to insight-packed discussions, this miniseries explores innovative tools that enhance the way we communicate and connect. Whether you want to make your presentations more memorable, craft stories that stick, or connect with your audience on a deeper level, these episodes will help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.Episode Reference Links:Darren ChaitE.227 Tech Tools: Move Your Audience By Moving Through Your Presentation Ep.230 Tech Tools: Use Visuals to Your Advantage Ep.233 Tech Tools: Write with Confidence and Impact Ep.236 Tech Tools: Zeroing in on Your Email 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 (01:12) - Calendly Elevator Pitch (02:47) - The Origin of Calendly (04:44) - The Art of Intentional Scheduling (06:33) - Making Meetings More Effective (07:30) - Favorite Communicator (09:31) - Communication Hack or Tool (11:36) - 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.Try Prezi today and get 25% off exclusively at prezi.com/thinkfast.

Transform how you communicate with tools that make your message stick.Clarity is the cornerstone of great communication—but turning your thoughts into words isn't always simple. That's why Grammarly exists: to help you express yourself with confidence and precision, no matter the context.For over a decade, Grammarly has helped millions of people improve their writing, from everyday emails to high-stakes professional communications. In this episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Tech Tools miniseries, host Matt Abrahams talks with Grammarly co-founder Max Lytvyn about the origins of the tool, how AI is shaping the future of writing, and why starting with your goal is the key to effective communication.In addition to insight-packed discussions, this miniseries explores innovative tools that enhance the way we communicate and connect. Whether you want to make your presentations more memorable, craft stories that stick, or connect with your audience on a deeper level, these episodes will help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.Episode Reference Links:Max Lytvyn Ep.227 Tech Tools: Move Your Audience By Moving Through Your Presentation Ep.230 Tech Tools: Use Visuals to Your Advantage 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 (01:14) - The Origins of Grammarly (02:50) - Grammarly Elevator Structure (04:54) - Lessons on Improving Writing (07:11) - Favorite Communicator (08:08) - Communication Hack or Tool (11:02) - 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.Try Prezi today and get 25% off exclusively at prezi.com/thinkfast.