We're taking a short break ... A milestone moment calls for thoughtful reflection. After producing over 50 episodes and reaching more than one million downloads, we're taking a strategic pause to reimagine The Art of Communication podcast for you. Since launching our journey exploring the nuances of communication, we've been overwhelmed by your enthusiastic response. This podcast has grown beyond our expectations, creating a community of listeners passionate about improving how they co...

The Power of Silence.Silence isn’t just the absence of sound - it’s a secret weapon in communication. Whether you’re delivering a speech, truly listening, or having a heartfelt conversation, knowing how to embrace silence can transform the way you connect with others.In this episode, Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen dive into the power of silence, exploring how mastering it can deepen your relationships, boost your confidence, and sharpen your communication skills. Tune in for another fun and in...

The Importance of Energy. How important is energy when engaging an audience? What is the right level of energy? And how can we change our energy levels?Discover how physical and mental preparation can help you channel that "sweet spot" of energy for different situations — from meeting rooms to large gatherings.Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss how different types of energy can change our communication style in another fun episode of this podcast series.

Being Natural on Video.How can you appear natural in front of a camera, whether you're a shooting social media video or filming a company message for your team? We look at why authenticity and a conversational tone are crucial, even in formal settings, and learn practical tips for sound and lighting to produce a flattering and natural feel. Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen for another fun podcast episode as they unravel the secrets to producing authentic and engaging videos.

Executive Presence - Leadership Beyond Charisma.What is executive presence? And can you learn it?It's a crucial but often misunderstood quality in effective leadership. Discover how true executive presence builds a sense of security and respect rather than fear. We discuss real life examples, from Rafael Nadal to Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk and find the core elements that make up genuine executive presence. We look at how we can all become leaders with executive presence that our teams...

The Importance of Memory in Communication.Why can you vividly remember some pitches and presentations while others fade away? We look at the role memory plays in effective communication. Is it better to memorize your speeches fully or rely on notes? And do specific memories help your storytelling to be more engaging and authentic?Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen for another fun podcast episode as they discuss some of the secrets to boosting your memory and unlocking the power of memory in y...

Asking for Money: The Art of Fundraising.Many people feel that asking for money is hard. They say it can be difficult and embarrassing. From fundraising for charitable causes to funding business ventures, we discuss some of the communication secrets to asking for money.Whether you're raising for personal causes, charities, or business investments, join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen for another episode of this fun podcast.

The Power of Saying 'Thank You'.Discover how the simple act of saying 'Thank you' can radiate through your day, influencing not just your mood but those around you. We explore how this simple act can shape relationships, professional dynamics, and even the way we interact with technology. We discuss the mindset of gratitude, from the joy of beginning each day with a grateful heart to how the unexpected impact of appreciation in leadership can rejuvenate spirits and strengthen bonds. We c...

The Top Five Frequently Asked Communication Questions: AI, Confidence, Cross-Culture Communication, Humour and Using Notes.How will AI and ChatGPT impact communication? How can we regain our confidence when we feel we've lost it? How can we speak to people in cross-cultural settings? How can we inject humour into our communication, especially if we feel we are just not funny? And should we feel bad about using notes when giving a speech or a presentation?Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hans...

The Three Spaces of Communication: The Physical Space, The Space of the Senses, and the Virtual Space.How close should you sit or stand to someone? We explore the subtle art of Proxemics and its role in building trust. We explore cross-cultural variations and The Vertical Space that shapes our classrooms and boardrooms.The Space of the Senses looks at all the personal senses, from your co-worker's strong-smelling office lunch to the volume levels required to be heard and to connect.&nbs...

The Art of Gift-Giving: Unwrapping the Emotions Behind Our Presents.Gift-giving is more than just handing over a wrapped present; it's a symbol of communication and connection. How can a simple gesture, like a bowl of homemade muffins, speak louder than the most lavish of presents? We look at the unspoken rules of giving. Can the pressure to pick out the perfect gift make us lose sight of what truly matters? And do we give out of obligation or from the heart? Join Robin Kermode...

Mastering your Tone of Voice: ChatGTP vs Humans?How important is your tone of voice in both spoken and written communication? What can happen if you get your tone wrong? AI understands that the tone of what you say really matters and it can suggest different tones for you. Let's make sure that we hit the right tone every time.Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss these and other questions about the importance of getting your tone right in another episode of this fun p...

How to become a really good Listener.We listen all the time, of course, but do we truly listen? Or do we just let things waft over us? How important is active listening? And how can we learn to become really good listeners? Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss these and other questions around the importance of listening well in another episode of this fun podcast series.

The Inner Voices in Our Head.All of us have inner voices in our heads - some of us have them louder than others. From the little demon that says we're not good enough to the imagined conversations we wish we could have instead of the ones that we have to have.Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss some interesting ways to listen to the inner voices in our heads so that they don't derail us unucessarily!

To Rehearse or Not to Rehearse? It can feel odd rehearsing a speech or a presentation. Especially if you are rehearsing on your own. To some, rehearsing makes them feel safe and comfortable. To others, it can make them feel just plain awkward. But it would be foolish not to rehearse when the outcome of your pitch or presentation is really important. So how should we rehearse? How long should we rehearse for? And is there a correct way to rehearse? Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as th...

How to Behave When You Meet One of Your Heroes. It can feel awkward meeting one of your heroes - whether they’re a movie star, an author, a public figure or an important person from your past. What do you say? How do you behave naturally? And is it OK to ask for a selfie? It’s all a bit of a minefield. Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss some interesting ways to make sure that if you do meet one of your heroes, you feel you've behaved well and done yourself proud! &n...

How to be a Great Host at Home and at Work.We've all been to great events, whether it was a party or a video conference call. It was probably great because it was hosted well. What makes a great host? Can you learn to be a better host? What are the basics?Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss some interesting ways to become a great host in another fun episode of this podcast.

Introduce Yourself in Any Situation.How can we best introduce ourselves in any situation, confidently and calmly? How can we come across as being impressive without being arrogant? Should we give our job title? Or underplay our success and be a little humble? We do it every day, but there are many factors to keep in mind when introducing ourselves.Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss some interesting ways to introduce ourselves in another fun episode of this podcast.

Final preparations.So, your big day has finally arrived. It may be a speech, a presentation, an important meeting, or a job interview. How should we prepare ourselves so we feel relaxed and confident? How do we deal with any last-minute nerves? And are there specific things we should look out for so we don't get derailed?Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss some interesting and fun ways to help us feel confident and make sure we do ourselves proud on the big day.

Communication’s Secret Weapon - Poetry.Reciting a poem can feel a little scary but it needn't be that way. How can we become more confident in using poetry in our speeches and in our everyday life? Poetry can build our connection with our audience and boost our communication power. Join Robin Kermode and Sian Hansen as they discuss some interesting ways to help us all feel confident when reciting poetry.