195. Q&A on Conflict, Confidence, and Connection: Me2We 2025 Part 2

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

#Careers #Influence #Leadership #Improv #Communication #Public Speaking #MBA #Business #Career Growth #Career Skills #Think Fast Talk Smart #Matt Abrahams #Podcasting Education

26:28

Squid Game is back—and this time, the knives are out. In the thrilling Season 3 premiere, Player 456 is spiraling and a brutal round of hide-and-seek forces players to kill or be killed. Hosts Phil Yu and Kiera Please break down Gi-hun’s descent into vengeance, Guard 011’s daring betrayal of the Game, and the shocking moment players are forced to choose between murdering their friends… or dying. Then, Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta from the Jumpers Jump podcast join us to unpack their wild theories for the season. Plus, Phil and Kiera face off in a high-stakes round of “Hot Sweet Potato.” SPOILER ALERT! Make sure you watch Squid Game Season 3 Episode 1 before listening on. Play one last time. IG - @SquidGameNetflix X (f.k.a. Twitter) - @SquidGame Check out more from Phil Yu @angryasianman , Kiera Please @kieraplease and the Jumpers Jump podcast Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . Squid Game: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and The Mash-Up Americans.…

about a year ago 13:45

MP3•Episode home

Stanford experts answer live questions on leadership, authenticity, and communication.

What happens when four top Stanford thinkers take live questions from a room full of leaders? In Part 2 of this special Think Fast, Talk Smart series from the Stanford LEAD Me2We Conference, Matt Abrahams and his panel of expert GSB faculty—Allison Kluger, Naomi Bagdonas, Christian Wheeler, and Nir Halevy—answer questions from a live audience. They cover real-world challenges around leadership, authenticity, psychological safety, and managing your reputation in complex environments. With honest reflections and actionable advice, their answers offer a candid look at what it takes to lead with intention while staying true to yourself.

Episode Reference Links:

Connect:

Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium
Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website
Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io
Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(02:45) - Bridging Political Divides
(05:58) - Navigating Confidence and Context
(08:03) - Rethinking Leadership and Reputation
(12:47) - Conclusion

*****
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.

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221 episodes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

195. Q&A on Conflict, Confidence, and Connection: Me2We 2025 Part 2

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

10,513 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Stanford experts answer live questions on leadership, authenticity, and communication.

Episode Reference Links:

Connect:

Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium
Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website
Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io
Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube
Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(02:45) - Bridging Political Divides
(05:58) - Navigating Confidence and Context
(08:03) - Rethinking Leadership and Reputation
(12:47) - Conclusion

Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.

221 episodes

#Careers #Influence #Leadership #Improv #Communication #Public Speaking #MBA #Business #Career Growth #Career Skills #Think Fast Talk Smart #Matt Abrahams #Podcasting Education

All episodes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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214. From Crisis to Clarity: Simplicity, Feedback, and the Art of Being Heard 24:19

13 hours ago24:19

24:19

How to communicate clearly in any context, from newsrooms to the world stage. All good communication, whether spoken or written, is built on the same foundation. In everything from police reporting for a newspaper to serving as spokesman for the Pope, Greg Burke has found the key: "Keep it as simple as possible." Burke has worked as a journalist for Time Magazine and Fox News, as Director of Communications at IESE Business School in Barcelona and Madrid, and even as a communications advisor and spokesman for the Vatican. Across his varied experiences, he’s found that the biggest communication challenges often require the simplest solutions. From expressing “curiosity and real interest” in those we’re speaking with to ensuring our messages are “clear, consistent, and timely,” he advocates for core principles that apply in all types of communication. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Burke and host Matt Abrahams discuss communication strategies that work whether you’re presenting to a team of five or millions of parishioners worldwide. As Burke shares, it’s all very simple: “Know your audience, practice, and have fun.” To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Greg Burke Ep.22 Under Pressure: How to Communicate Clearly and Timely During a Crisis Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:56) - Asking Good Questions (03:49) - Writing Clearly and Concretely (05:28) - Editing and AI’s Role in Writing (06:44) - Three Keys to Great Communication (08:33) - The Importance of Feedback (10:13) - Communication at the Vatican (12:57) - Crisis Communication: Lessons from the Vatican (15:59) - The Final Three Questions (22:40) - Conclusion ***** This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford Report Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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213. Rethinks: Building Trusting Relationships Through Communication 30:13

8 days ago30:13

30:13

How to turn doubt and suspicion into hopefulness and trust. There’s a lot in the world to make us cynical about other people and their motives and intentions. But by “trusting loudly,” Professor Jamil Zaki believes we can renew our faith in one another. Zaki is a professor of psychology at Stanford, director of the Stanford Social Neuroscience lab, and author of several books, including his most recent, Hope for Cynics: The Surprising Science of Human Goodness . While many people feel suspicious of others and are reluctant to trust them, Zaki finds that relying on other people is a necessary part of forming relationships. “Acts of trust are the bedrock on which relationships are formed,” Zaki says. “The only way that strangers become friends and friends become best friends, the only way that we can build partnerships is through a willingness to count on one another.” In this Rethinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Zaki joins host Matt Abrahams to discuss practical strategies for fostering trust and challenging our cynical assumptions, offering a hopeful perspective on human nature, backed by surprising scientific insights. Episode Reference Links: Jamil Zaki Jamil’s Lab: Stanford Social Neuroscience Lab Jamil’s Book: Hope for Cynics Ep.158 Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through Communication Ep.84 Quick Thinks: How Others Define Us Ep.129 Connect Deeply: How to Communicate So People Feel Seen and Heard Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (03:26) - Defining Trust and Its Importance (04:17) - Building Better Trust (05:48) - Understanding Cynicism (08:10) - The Cynicism Spectrum (10:30) - Fostering Hopeful Skepticism (12:44) - Challenges of Overcoming Cynicism (14:36) - Positive Gossip and Positive Noticing (17:34) - Self-Fulfilling Prophecies (20:30) - The Final Three Questions (28:38) - 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 Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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212. Break It to Make It: Disrupt Your Way to the Perfect Job Fit 26:43

13 days ago26:43

26:43

Career growth starts with stepping outside your comfort zone. Building a successful career isn’t about following a set path—it’s about knowing when to evolve and embracing change. Whitney Johnson believes that success comes from disrupting yourself—challenging routines, stepping into discomfort, and continuously evolving. “People think staying in their comfort zone is the safe choice,” she explains, “but real growth happens when we take intentional risks.” As a bestselling author and leadership expert, Johnson has spent years helping individuals and organizations navigate change. She breaks down the S-curve of learning, a framework that helps professionals recognize when it’s time to move on, pivot, or double down on their current path. From identifying signs of stagnation to developing strategies for career reinvention, she shares practical tools for making bold moves with confidence. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Johnson joins host Matt Abrahams to explore why mastery can be a sign that it’s time for a change, how to manage the discomfort that comes with growth, and why personal disruption isn’t just a challenge—it’s the key to long-term success. To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Whitney Johnson Whitney’s Books: Disrupt Yourself / Smart Growth Ep.147 Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:09) - What Is Personal Disruption? (05:14) - Signs It’s Time to Disrupt Yourself (07:36) - Getting Comfortable with Discomfort (12:33) - Finding Your Next Career Move (16:22) - Ensuring Fulfillment After Disruption (22:10) - Best Career Advice Received (23:43) - Career Regrets & Lessons (25:14) - Conclusion ***** This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford Report Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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211. Small Screens, Strong Signals: Mastering Modern Communication 26:48

15 days ago26:48

26:48

In the age of virtual communication, here’s how to ensure your messages convey what you mean. Texts. Emails. Slacks. Zooms. We’re communicating in more ways than ever, but Andrew Brodsky has a word of warning: Your virtual communication might be sending messages you’re not aware of. Brodsky is the author of PING: The Secrets of Successful Virtual Communication . And as a professor of management at the University of Texas McCombs School of Business, he researches the impact of technology on workplace communication. “In virtual communication, there's often missing information,” he says. “As recipients of it, we're searching to fill in the gaps. The problem [is] that the recipient who's making these guesses is often guessing incorrectly.” As his research reveals, variables like typos, the time you schedule a meeting, and even your choice of email signature affect how your messages are received — and how you’re perceived. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , host Matt Abrahams and Brodsky explore his PING framework (perspective-taking, initiative, nonverbal awareness, and goals) for mastering digital communication. From understanding when to choose email over a phone call to navigating cameras-on versus cameras-off meetings, he offers practical strategies for ensuring your virtual messages communicate exactly what you intend. To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Andrew Brodsky Andrew’s Book: Ping Ep.31 Quick Thinks: How to Shine Online and Excel at Virtual Communication Ep.53 Step Up and Stand Out: How to Create the Right Environment for Communication Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (03:07) - What Is Virtual Communication? (03:53) - Choosing the Right Channel for Your Goal (06:38) - The Ping Framework: Secrets to Virtual Communication (10:34) - Understanding Communication Richness (13:36) - Nonverbals in Virtual Communication (17:20) - The Final Three Question (25:10) - Conclusion ******** This Episode is brought to you by Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smart Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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210. First Impression to Lasting Impact: Use Status Strategically 29:05

22 days ago29:05

29:05

Career success takes a status boost, not a power grab. How do you chart the career course you’ve always imagined? According to Alison Fragale , it’s about gaining influence through status, power, and ultimately, being “a likeable badass.” As a research psychologist, professor, speaker, and author, Fragale is on a mission to help women take control of their careers. In her book Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve , she argues that most people have it backwards when pursuing career advancement. "We have talked for a long time [about] getting more power," she explains. However, by focusing first on achieving status (how respected we are), power will often come as a natural byproduct. "If you pursue status before, or at least alongside power, everything is going to fall into place," she says. “Status makes power a lot easier to achieve, and it makes power a lot easier to use.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , hosted by executive producer Jenny Luna , Fragale explores the communication strategies of a likeable badass, from building warmth and assertiveness to authentically connecting with colleagues. Whether you're building relationships in a new company or have been leading one for years, Fragale’s insights will help you command respect while communicating with kindness. To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Alison Fragale Alison’s Book: Likeable Badass Jenny Luna Ep.12 It's Not What You Say, It’s How You Say It: How To Communicate Power Ep.15 The Art of Negotiation: How to Get More of What You Want Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:58) - Defining Power and Status (06:03) - Why Status Comes Before Power (06:56) - Communication Techniques to Build Status (10:04) - Evaluating Your Habits: Nonverbal and Verbal Cues (11:58) - Mentorship in Developing Communication (13:50) - Adapting to a New Work Culture (19:18) - Representing Difference Without Distance (20:26) - Overcoming Bad First Impressions (23:37) - The Final Three Question (27:22) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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209. Find Your Fit, Find Your Focus - Catalyze Your Career 26:47

27 days ago26:47

26:47

How to turn curiosity, clarity, and AI into your most powerful job search tools. Job search isn’t just about landing your next role—it’s about understanding who you are and how you want to show up in the world. According to Andrew Seaman , Senior Managing Editor for Jobs and Career Development at LinkedIn, that process begins with curiosity, not certainty. “People assume they need to apply to dozens of jobs with a perfect résumé,” he explains. “But the best applications are rooted in self-awareness and strategy—not spray-and-pray.” Instead of rushing to the next opportunity, Seaman encourages job seekers to slow down, ask better questions, and prioritize conversations over checklists. From informational interviews to profile updates, clarity is key—knowing what you want and telling a story that shows why you’re the right fit. With tools like LinkedIn’s Job Match and natural-language job search, candidates can now assess how they align with a role—and where they can grow. “It’s not just about being qualified,” Seaman says. “It’s about showing the value you bring.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Seaman joins host Matt Abrahams for our Catalyze Your Career miniseries to share how to job search with intention. Using Matt’s “Four I’s” framework—identifying, investigating, initiating contact, and interviewing—they explore how strategic storytelling, thoughtful networking, and AI tools can help you stand out in a crowded market. Episode Reference Links: Andrew Seaman Ep.184 Fit or Quit? Find the Job That is Right For You—Catalyze Your Career Ep.187 Experimenting, Failing, and Finding Your Job Fit - Catalyze Your Career Ep.151 Get Hired: How the Right Communication Can Advance Your Career Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:05) - What’s Changing in Job Search (04:22) - Identifying Roles with Curiosity (07:22) - Investigating Companies & Roles (08:46) - Initiating Contact Effectively (12:02) - Crafting a Strong Narrative (13:14) - How Job Match Can Help (16:34) - Strategic vs. Shotgun Approach (21:33) - Best Career Advice Received (23:42) - Career Regrets & Lessons (25:11) - Conclusion ******** This episode is sponsored by LinkedIn. Dare to discover what’s next. Explore your job potential at LinkedIn . Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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208. Ambiguity to Action: Tensions and Trade-Offs of Leadership and Communication 26:58

29 days ago26:58

26:58

Amidst constant change, clear communication is the key to navigating uncertainty. How do you communicate with others when you’re confused yourself? For Rob Siegel , leadership isn’t about avoiding uncertainty, it’s about embracing the clarity that ambiguity can bring. "What if ambiguity is the new normal?" asks Siegel, a venture investor and lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business. From rapidly evolving AI to ratcheting geopolitical tensions, every day brings a “crisis du jour,” he says. “I may like it, I may not like it. That doesn't really matter, but I've gotta get my team through it." In his latest book, The Systems Leader: Mastering the Cross Pressures That Make or Break Today's Companies , Siegel explores how leaders today are “living in dualities,” caught between managing existing processes and adapting to emerging disruptions. “The sooner we get comfortable with [change] in the sense of ‘I don't have to like it, but I can deal with it,’ then [we can] lead our teams and give them the calm to know they can get through this.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Siegel and host Matt Abrahams explore how to communicate effectively amidst constant change. From preparation strategies for spontaneous speaking to building trust through candid conversations, Siegel offers practical tips for communicating with clarity when nothing is certain but change. To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Robert Siegel Rob’s Book: The Systems Leader Ep.35 Leading From The Hot Seat: How To Communicate Under Pressure Ep.37 Be Better: How Communication Catalyzes Business Transformation Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:49) - Adapting Leadership for Uncertainty (03:51) - Systems Leadership and Cross Pressures (05:13) - Communication and Context (05:59) - Framing Complex Ideas (06:54) - Innovation vs. Execution (08:44) - Leading Through Ambiguity (10:06) - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Focus (13:17) - Balancing Strength and Empathy (15:59) - Leadership with Humanity (17:15) - Engaging Students Effectively (20:33) - The Final Three Questions (25:27) - Conclusion ***** This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford Report Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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207. From Conflict to Connection: Having Crucial Conversations that Count 28:05

5 weeks ago28:05

28:05

How victim, villain, and helpless stories sabotage our most important conversations. The hardest conversations aren’t just about what you say to the other person. According to Joseph Grenny , critical conversations begin with the stories that you tell yourself. As a leading expert on business performance and communication, and a New York Times bestselling co-author of Crucial Conversations , Grenny explains that navigating high-stakes communication starts by examining the internal narratives we bring into these situations. “You and I use three consistent types of stories in these moments that don't serve us well,” he says: Victim stories (emphasizing our innocence), villain stories (demonizing the other person), and helpless stories (justifying our poor responses). "Those three kinds of stories are what amp up our emotions and justify us in our unhealthy responses," he says. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Grenny joins Matt Abrahams to share practical strategies for mastering difficult conversations through what he calls "TLC" — truth, love, and competence. From recognizing your motives during conflict to accepting your role in creating it, he offers tools for staying focused on what you really want rather than getting hijacked by short-term emotional impulses. To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium Episode Reference Links: Joseph Grenny Joseph’s Book: Crucial Conversations Ep.105 Radical Candor: The Communication Shift That Can Transform Your Career Ep.148 Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard Conversations Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:50) - Influence & Why It Matters (04:49) - Truth & Love: The Foundation of Accountability (07:09) - Showing You Care & Respect Others (08:53) - Recognizing Motives in High-Stakes Moment (14:47) - Managing Emotions in Crucial Conversations (20:42) - The Final Three Questions (27:11) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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206. Crafting Narratives That Motivate: What’s Your Strategy Story? 25:30

6 weeks ago25:30

25:30

Great strategy starts with a question—and a story worth believing in. A good strategy isn’t just built—it’s told. For Martin Reeves , chairman of the BCG Henderson Institute and author of The Imagination Machine and Like: The Button That Changed the World , strategy and imagination are both deeply communicative processes, rooted in storytelling, curiosity, and the courage to reframe assumptions. “A strategy is really just a special kind of story,” Reeves explains. “It begins with the present and aspires to a different future—it’s fiction made actionable.” To bring that fiction to life, leaders must involve their teams in a co-creative journey and use thoughtful questions to shape not just ideas, but belief and action. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Reeves joins Matt Abrahams to explore how communication fuels strategic thinking, innovation, and organizational reinvention. He outlines his six-step framework for imagination—from embracing anomalies to codifying and continuing ideas—and underscores the role of reframing, deep listening, and even levity in solving complex problems. Together, they unpack how a single “like” button changed our digital behaviors—and what it teaches us about influence and attention today. Episode Reference Links: Martin Reeves Martin’s Books: Like / The Imagination Machine Ep.71 Strategy Success: How to Communicate Your Gameplan Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:47) - Using Story in Strategy (05:28) - Questions as a Communication Technology (06:43) - The Six Steps to Harnessing Imagination (11:04) - The “7 Cs” of Imagination and Communication (12:36) - Reframing as a Creative Tool (14:39) - The Like Button: Origin and Evolution (16:42) - Brain Chemistry Behind Digital Liking (18:40) - The Final Three Questions (24:40) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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205. Say What Sucks: Catalyzing Organizational Change with AI 42:45

6 weeks ago42:45

42:45

A live SXSW panel on how employee complaints illuminate the path to organizational innovation. Wrong question: How can AI revolutionize productivity in my organization? Right question: What do my employees hate most about their jobs? For the Portland Trail Blazers, a winning game plan for AI implementation didn’t begin with a tech-first approach — it began with a talk-first one. “The whole concept was to talk about pain points," explains David Long, VP of Digital Innovation, describing the "Lunch and Launch" sessions where employees could openly share frustrations about their daily work. “People really enjoy talking about what they hate about their jobs,” says Christa Stout , Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer, and as they did, they illuminated opportunities for optimization. “By getting this insight across the whole company, it is already opening our eyes [to how] we can potentially transform the business more broadly,” Stout says. In this special live episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , recorded at SXSW, host Matt Abrahams leads a panel with Long, Stout, and Stanford colleague Jeremy Utley , exploring how "catharsis catalyzes change.” For any team wanting to implement new technology or rethink workflows, these experts reveal how creating space for complaints can catalyze meaningful innovation throughout an organization. Episode Reference Links: Jeremy Utley David Long Christa Stout Ep.77 Quick Thinks: AI Has Entered The Chat – A "Conversation" with ChatGPT Ep.134 How to Chat with Bots: The Secrets to Getting the Information You Need from AI Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (05:10) - The Business Behind Basketball (06:41) - Why AI and Why Now? (07:49) - Collaborating with the Team (09:07) - The Lunch & Launch Method (11:39) - Branding AI Initiatives (12:57) - David Detractor & Kelly Kindness (16:28) - Human Connection through AI (17:13) - Auditing for Brand Consistency (19:21) - AI in National Parks (22:04) - Making AI Personal (23:26) - Using AI to Learn AI (27:55) - Encouraging AI in the Workplace (30:49) - Change Management: Iteration Over Perfection (34:35) - Start with Curiosity and Empower Action (38:18) - Communication Ingredients (41:03) - Conclusion ******** This episode is sponsored by LinkedIn. Dare to discover what’s next. Explore your job potential at LinkedIn . Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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204. Tough Talks: Turn Tension Into Trust 30:05

7 weeks ago30:05

30:05

How to have the conversations that are most difficult — and most important. Before you can have hard conversations with others, you need to have an honest conversation with yourself. That's the counterintuitive advice from Sheila Heen , who says our own internal narratives often derail our attempts at negotiation and conflict resolution. "The first negotiation is actually a negotiation I have with myself about my own story," explains Heen, a Harvard Law School lecturer and co-author of Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most . When entering challenging interactions, she recommends a powerful shift where we consider that our perspective is only one side of the story. "If I can shift my purpose from convincing you of something to just understanding how you see it and why we might see it differently, that actually is more likely to generate a good conversation with less defensiveness for both of us." In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Heen joins Matt Abrahams to explore effective communication in high-stakes situations. From giving and receiving feedback with her “ACE” framework (Appreciation, Coaching, and Evaluation) to recognizing the "degrees of difficulty" in disagreements, she offers practical strategies for having productive conversations even when emotions run high. Episode Reference Links: Sheila Heen Sheila’s Books: Difficult Conversations / Thanks for the Feedback Ep.144 Communicating Through Conflict: How to Get Along with Anyone Ep.136 The Art of Disagreeing Without Conflict: Navigating the Nuance Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:36) - Managing Anxiety in Tough Conversations (04:47) - Why Emotions Matter (07:55) - Shifting the Story We Tell Ourselves (09:13) - Starting with the Real Issue (10:52) - Getting Unstuck in Conflict (13:50) - ACE: The Three Types of Feedback (16:52) - Making Feedback Actionable (19:12) - Finding Common Ground (20:49) - The Final Three Questions (29:17) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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203. No Script, No Problem: Final Secrets to Speaking Under Pressure (Bonus) 16:11

8 weeks ago16:11

16:11

Stay sharp, sound confident, and speak with impact — even when you're put on the spot. Communicating clearly is challenging enough when there’s time to prepare. But in most situations — whether in meetings, casual conversations, or high-stakes moments — we rarely have the luxury of scripting our words. We must think and speak in real time. Spontaneous communication is a daily challenge, yet few of us receive formal training in how to handle it with poise and confidence. So how can we stay composed and communicate effectively when put on the spot? Drawing on years of experience, our expert coaches — including a sports broadcaster, FBI negotiator, UN interpreter, game show host, NFL referee, and Sotheby’s auctioneer — share their final pieces of advice to help answer that question. In this special episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , the Spontaneous Speaking miniseries concludes with powerful tools, frameworks, and tips for staying calm, organizing your thoughts, and speaking with clarity under pressure. Matt Abrahams shares practical strategies and exercises designed to help you build lasting habits and sharpen your impromptu speaking skills. Whether you tend to freeze when caught off guard or simply want to express your ideas more effectively on the fly, this final installment will equip you to not only think fast — but speak smart. Episode Reference Links: Chris Voss - Former FBI Negotiator, Keynote Speaker Chris Voss's Book: Empathy and Understanding In Business Annabelle Williams - Paralympic Champion, Sports Broadcaster Giampaolo Bianchi - United Nations Interpreter Brad Rogers - NFL Referee, Professor Phyllis Kao - Sotheby's Auctioneer Peter D Sagal - Game Show Host, Author Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (02:35) - The Power of Structure (06:27) - Expert Tip: Trust Yourself (06:48) - Expert Tip: Project Confidence & Provide Value (08:27) - Expert Tip: Ask for What You Need & Visualization (10:54) - Expert Tip: Review & Reflect (12:54) - Expert Tip: Use an Encouraging Tone (13:15) - Expert Tip: Turn Observation into Storytelling (15:08) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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202. Own Your Brand: How to Communicate with Presence and Impact 24:40

8 weeks ago24:40

24:40

The power of creating the reputation you want to have. Whether you know it or not, you have a brand. What that brand is, says Lorraine Lee, doesn’t happen by accident. “You can either form and create it, or you can let people define it for you.” A teacher, content creator, speaker, and author of Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence and Catapult Your Career , Lee helps people improve their communication presence and define their personal and professional brands. “Your brand is essentially your reputation,” she says. And while she acknowledges that “it can feel intimidating” to actively steer how we’re perceived, her EPIC framework helps navigate this challenge by examining our Experiences, Personality, Identity, and Community. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , Lee and host Matt Abrahams explore strategies for showing up memorably in both virtual and in-person settings. From crafting "unique and powerful introductions" to honing your online presence, Lee’s practical advice shows how to communicate your brand in today's digital workplace. Episode Reference Links: Lorraine K. Lee Lorraine’s Book: Unforgettable Presence Ep.6 Quick Thinks: Communicating and Leading Virtually Ep.7 Quick Thinks: Use This Framework to Speak up in Virtual Meetings Ep.31 Quick Thinks: How to Shine Online and Excel at Virtual Communication Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (01:45) - Tips for Virtual Presence (04:15) - Public Speaking Insights (07:00) - The Importance of Mentors & Sponsors (08:15) - Personal Branding on Social Media (10:50) - EPIC Career Brand Framework (13:15) - Unique & Powerful Introductions (15:30) - Conversational Threading (16:39) - Avoiding Resting Business Face (19:44) - The Final Three Question (23:45) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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201. Ballpark to the Boardroom: How Alex Rodriguez Hits a Communication Home Run 28:09

9 weeks ago28:09

28:09

Alex Rodriguez shares why in sports and business, striking out is just a part of the game. From the baseball field to the boardroom, great communication is critical for success. But as Alex Rodriguez knows, we don’t always hit it out of the park. For this sports superstar turned entrepreneur, striking out is never the end of the story. “I'm fifth all-time in the history of strikeouts,” says Rodriguez. “That means there's only four people in the history of mankind that have failed more than me.” For the 14-time Major League Baseball All-Star and World Series champion, failures aren’t endings, but opportunities to learn and grow. "The key is how you get back up with the same energy and enthusiasm," explains Rodriguez, who is now chairman and CEO of A-Rod Corp, leading a team of experts in building high-growth businesses. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart , co-hosted by Matt Abrahams and Stanford GSB colleague Jeffrey Pfeffer , Rodriguez shares lessons on resilience, authenticity, and effective communication. From maintaining a "slow heartbeat" in high-pressure moments to his approach of "intentional listening," he offers insights on leadership, giving feedback, and viewing communication as "an unselfish act." Whether you're stepping up to the plate or stepping up to present, these strategies can help you turn strikeouts into home runs. Episode Reference Links: Alex Rodriguez Jeffrey Pfeffer Ep.166 Why Relying on Talent Alone Will Fail You Ep.153 Listen Up, Leaders: A Record-Setting Coach’s Guide to Communication Connect: Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart Premium Email Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.io Episode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart Website Newsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.io Think Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Matt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction (03:22) - Teaching at Stanford: Strategic Pivoting (04:57) - Preparing for Life After Baseball (07:20) - Performing Under Pressure (08:45) - Finding Balance Post-Pandemic (09:43) - Building a Media Presence (11:34) - Creating Great Teams (12:44) - The Role of Ego and Intentional Listening (14:55) - Giving and Receiving Feedback (17:35) - Setbacks, Resilience, and Redemption (20:38) - Developing Authenticity (22:08) - The Final Three Questions (27:13) - Conclusion ***** 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. Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium .…

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

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200. Four Keys for Focused Communication: Live Lessons from Our 200 Episodes 43:54

10 weeks ago43:54