Better Conversations at Work and Home: Jackie Stavros & Cheri Torres

Communication Challenge for Technical Leaders: Hasan Ibne Akram

The Power of Empathy in Leadership Communication Communicating Complex Ideas so Everyone Understands Episode 307 (Hasan is based in Munich, Germany) Repeat of the popular episode 146 In this conversation with Hasan Ibne Akram we explore: * why technical experts often struggle to communicate with executives and investors * the concept of the T-shaped engineer and why it is rare * how storytelling simplifies complex technical ideas * using analogies to help audiences quickly understand unfamiliar concepts * why precision matters in engineering communication * adapting communication style based on the listener’s mindset * how empathy improves leadership and communication effectiveness * the difference between sympathy and tactical empathy * learning to understand emotions without agreeing with the viewpoint * why asking precise questions produces better answers * how executives can become more approachable to employees * the role of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership * why curiosity helps people connect across differences * how perspective shapes workplace relationships * the importance of mission alignment inside organizations * the difference between assigning tasks and leading people * how meditation and alpha brain training support high performance ----- About our guest, Dr. Hasan Akram: Dr. Hasan is a serial entrepreneur. He is a computer scientist working in the domain of Autonomous Vehicle Safety. He is passionate about high performance. He is the author of The Million Dollar Monk, which examines high performance. Train your brain to overcome brain burn-out and leverage more of your brain's power with the use of science-based training programs. https://brainvincible.com/ [https://brainvincible.com/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasan-ibne-akram-phd-75332b4/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasan-ibne-akram-phd-75332b4/] ----- Key Lessons from this conversation with Hasan Akram: * technical experts often lose their audience by explaining too much detail instead of focusing on meaning and relevance * T-shaped professionals combine deep expertise with the ability to communicate at a high level * storytelling helps people understand complex ideas faster than technical jargon * analogies bridge the gap between technical language and everyday understanding * precision matters in communication, especially for engineers and scientists * empathy requires understanding another person’s perspective without necessarily agreeing with them * tactical empathy focuses on understanding emotions during difficult conversations * asking better questions leads to better answers and stronger communication * leaders need to adjust their communication level depending on the audience * authenticity increases trust and strengthens communication effectiveness * vulnerability can help leaders appear more human and approachable * employees often filter communication through fear and uncertainty about their role or security * people respond differently when they genuinely feel understood * curiosity about others helps reduce barriers and improve communication * changing your perspective can transform difficult workplace relationships * leaders should communicate mission and vision, not simply assign tasks * aligning organizational goals with personal purpose strengthens engagement * meditation and brain training can improve focus and performance by reducing mental noise ----- ----more---- Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self. In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.   Your host is George Torok George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.   Connect with George www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com [http://www.speechcoachforexecutives.com/] https://superiorpresentations.net/ [https://superiorpresentations.net/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/] https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskill [https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills1]

Build Your Network Before You Need It: Larry Kaufman

Career Success Through Networking, Connecting and Giving Why Giving First Creates Better Professional Relationships Episode 306 (Larry is based in Chicago) This is a repeat of the poplular episode 131. In this conversation with Larry Kaufman, we explore: * networking beyond exchanging business cards * how networking, connecting and giving work together * the difference between inner-circle and outer-circle relationships * why giving can include time, knowledge and expertise * how philanthropy expands both purpose and relationships * why professionals need to build relationships before they need help * recognizing the warning signs of takers * why curiosity builds stronger relationships than self-promotion * how professionals in transition can reshape networking conversations * the role of becoming an indispensable resource * setting personal NCG goals * creating stronger relationships through intentional giving ----- About our Guest, Larry Kaufman: Larry is the author of the best-selling book, The NCG Factor - a Formula for Building Life-Changing Relationships from College to Retirement. He is a connector, giver and rainmaker who lives his life to help others. Learn more about Larry at the website www.Kaufman-Larry.com [http://www.kaufman-larry.com/] Follow or connect on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrykaufmanlinkedinspeaker/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrykaufmanlinkedinspeaker/] ----- Key Lessons from this conversation with Larry Kaufman: * networking is more than exchanging business cards; it begins with authentic relationships * connecting people can create value even when you are not the expert * giving may involve time, expertise, introductions, mentoring, or philanthropy * an inner circle consists of people you trust and can depend upon * strong relationships provide support beyond career needs * build relationships before you need them * networking continues throughout a career and beyond retirement * helping others often creates unexpected opportunities * philanthropy can expand relationships while serving a larger purpose * not every connection should become part of your inner circle * takers often reveal themselves by focusing only on their own needs * people in career transition benefit from leading with curiosity instead of urgency * asking questions creates stronger conversations than presenting a resume * becoming indispensable requires helping beyond products and services * setting an NCG goal creates a habit of helping others ----- ----more---- Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self. In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.   Your host is George Torok George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.   Connect with George www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com [http://www.speechcoachforexecutives.com/] https://superiorpresentations.net/ [https://superiorpresentations.net/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/] https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskill [https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills1]

To Write is to Think: Jim Rowe

Why Poor Writing Skills Cost Companies Billions Critical Thinking & Communication are Inseparable Episode 305 (Jim is based in Long Island New York) This is a repeat of the popular episode 233. In this coversation with Jim Rowe we explore: * why writing is one of the strongest tools for improving critical thinking * how weak communication skills reduce workplace productivity * why many graduates are unprepared for executive communication demands * the relationship between writing, thinking and leadership * how structured communication improves decision making * why one-page communication creates greater clarity * the importance of defining audience and purpose before communicating * how editing sharpens ideas and improves persuasion * why reading communication aloud improves tone and delivery * how executives waste time fixing unclear communication from staff * why communication should be treated as a professional craft * the value of teaching critical thinking alongside writing skills * how communication frameworks improve meetings and presentations * why communication skills remain essential despite advances in technology * how organizations can create more disciplined communication habits ----- About our guest Jim Rowe: Jim is author of the two-book series, "Get Your Ducks in a Rowe". It's a fable that helps executives address the skills gap or their new employees. https://www.getyourducksinarowe.com/ [https://www.getyourducksinarowe.com/] ----- Key Lessons from this conversation with Jim Rowe: * writing is an active thinking process, not simply a communication task * many graduates overestimate their communication and writing abilities * corporations lose productivity when leaders must rewrite unclear communication * structured thinking improves communication clarity * executives value employees who can solve problems and communicate clearly * identifying the audience and desired action is the starting point of effective communication * concise one-page communication forces sharper thinking * editing is a critical part of strong communication * reading writing aloud helps improve tone, clarity and flow * communication and critical thinking are inseparably connected * organizations benefit when meetings and communication follow a clear structure * communication skills improve through continual practice and refinement * writing training should include critical thinking, not only grammar and syntax * clear communication saves organizations time and money * effective communication requires awareness of audience, purpose and context ----- ----more---- Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self. In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.   Your host is George Torok George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.   Connect with George www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com [http://www.speechcoachforexecutives.com/] https://superiorpresentations.net/ [https://superiorpresentations.net/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/] https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskill [https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills1]

Discover Your Core Message: Fredrik Haren

Your Inner Theme, Core Message & Brand Moniker Be Authentic When You Find Your Innner Message Episode 304 (This is a repeat of the popular episode #97. Fredrik is based in Sweden and now lives on his Ideas Island. It's no longer available for your free vacation.) In this conversation with Fredrik Haren we explore: * how speakers discover the deeper meaning behind their message * why an inner theme creates stronger resonance with an audience * the difference between a topic, a core message, and a brand moniker * why explorers often connect more powerfully than experts * how authenticity shapes audience trust * why speeches fail when speakers begin too far ahead of their audience * a four-step rhetorical framework for persuasive speaking * why people rally behind messages more than personalities * how leaders gain influence by knowing who they are * the role of presence and being fully in the moment when speaking * why clearly communicated ideas are the ideas most likely to become rea ------ About  Our Guest Fredrik Haren" Fredrik is known as The Creativity Explorer. He has interviewed thousands of people in 70 countries on six continents about their creative process.  His book, The Idea Book, was included in "The 100 Best Business Books of All Time". Fredrik helps people find their Inner Theme to help them get clarity on their purpose and true message. It's an intense one hour, on-off, session. To learn more about the Clarity session contact Fredrik at clarity@interesting.org [clarity@interesting.org] Or connect on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikharen/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikharen/] Visit his website at www.FredrikHaren.com [http://www.fredrikharen.com/] His Inner Theme: Humanity to the power of ideas His Brand Moniker: The Creativity Explorer His Core Message: Helping humanity create its potential ----- Key Lessons from this conversation with Fredrik Haren: * finding your inner theme creates a deeper connection between you and your message * your strongest message is one that many people need to hear, but only you are uniquely positioned to deliver * clarity about who you are strengthens clarity in how you speak * a brand moniker helps you stand apart in a crowded field * being an explorer creates curiosity, learning, and authenticity * audiences connect more strongly with authentic conviction than polished perfection * speakers need to begin where the audience is, not where they are * the rhetorical structure of position, problem, possibility, proposal gives speeches logical momentum * people follow messages they believe in more than personalities they admire * leadership starts with understanding who you are at your core * being fully present in the moment strengthens delivery and connection * ideas become reality when people communicate them clearly and convincingly ----- ----more---- Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self. In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.   Your host is George Torok George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.   Connect with George www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com [http://www.speechcoachforexecutives.com/] https://superiorpresentations.net/ [https://superiorpresentations.net/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/] https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskill [https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills1]

Better Conversations at Work and Home: Jackie Stavros & Cheri Torres

Better Conversations from Better Questions Be Curious to Create Positive Conversations Episode 303 (Jackie is based in Michigan. Cheri is based in North Carolina) In this conversation with Jackie Stavors & Cheri Torres we explore: * the conversations we have with ourselves before we speak to others * the difference between appreciative and depreciative thinking * how pausing and breathing can interrupt defensive reactions * why curiosity changes the direction of difficult conversations * how generative questions broaden thinking * making invisible assumptions visible * creating shared understanding through inquiry * inspiring possibilities with thoughtful questions * helping leaders engage people instead of commanding them * shifting meetings from blame to exploration * building commitment by involving people in creation * using positive framing to guide stronger outcomes * practical questions that diffuse tension and invite insight ----- About our guests: They are coauthers of the book, "Conversations Work Having: Using Appreciative Inquiry to Fuel Productive and Meaningful Engagement". Learn more about Conversations Work Having and the free resources here [https://www.conversationsworthhaving.today/]. ----- Key Lessons from this conversation with Jackie Stavros & Cheri Torres: * conversations shape outcomes, whether those conversations are with others or with ourselves * before speaking, ask: what is my intended message? * recognize whether you are above the line (appreciative) or below the line (depreciative) * pausing and breathing interrupts defensive reactions and creates room for better thinking * curiosity is stronger than criticism when facing conflict or disagreement * self-talk improves when statements are replaced with thoughtful questions * generative questions can change how people think and respond * strong questions make the invisible visible * shared understanding grows when people clarify intentions and desired outcomes * leaders build stronger commitment when they ask more questions and give fewer commands * people commit more deeply to what they help create * positive framing focuses attention on what we want to build, not only what we want to fix * any person in a meeting, regardless of role, can redirect conversation with a thoughtful question * asking “what do you know that I don’t know?” opens learning and reduces defensiveness * conversations worth having are built through awareness, inquiry, and intention ----- ----more---- Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self. In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.   Your host is George Torok George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.   Connect with George www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com [http://www.speechcoachforexecutives.com/] https://superiorpresentations.net/ [https://superiorpresentations.net/] https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/] https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskill [https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills1]