Ever wonder why some people just click with everyone? In this episode, I sit down with my friend Vanessa Van Edwards—behavioral investigator, author, and founder of Science of People—to break down the science behind first impressions, charisma, and connection. We dig into what people really notice in the first few seconds of meeting you (hint: it’s not your words), how to instantly build trust, and the vocal mistake most people make when they say “hello.” Whether you're walking into a boardroom or meeting someone on the street, this is the conversation that’ll change the way you show up. Check out Vanessa’s amazing website - https://www.scienceofpeople.com/  Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Momentous. Visit https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use code JEFFERSON for 35% off your first order. Our Place. Visit https://fromourplace.com/JEFFERSON and use code JEFFERSON for 10% off sitewide. https://fromourplace.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=JEFFERSON  BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk about emotional immaturity—because spotting it early can save you a whole lot of pain. In this episode, I’m breaking down three clear signs that someone’s not ready to handle their emotions like an adult. From causing scenes in public to taking everything personal, and going straight for the low-blow insults—these are major red flags. Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. LMNT. Head to drinkLMNT.com/jefferson to try risk free. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s be real—there are people you don’t like, and there are people who don’t like you. That’s just life. But what do you do when you have to deal with them—at work, at home, or anywhere you can’t avoid them? In this episode, I’m sharing three simple strategies to keep your cool, protect your integrity, and handle these conversations like a pro. Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Momentous. Visit https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use code JEFFERSON for 35% off your first order. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When tragedy strikes, most of us go silent—not because we don’t care, but because we don’t know what to say. In this episode, I walk you through exactly what to do (and what not to do) when someone you care about is going through grief. From the well-meaning phrases that actually cause harm to the simple actions that show real support, this is a practical, heartfelt guide for one of the hardest moments in life. Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. LMNT. Head to drinkLMNT.com/jefferson to try risk free. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gretchen Rubin—bestselling author of The Happiness Project and host of the Happier podcast—joins me to talk about how small, everyday choices in the way we communicate can lead to a happier life. We get into the power of language, environment, relationships, and even those little one-liner “isms” that stick with you. If you want to feel better, connect better, and live with more intention—this one’s for you. Buy her book, take her amazing quizzes and subscribe to her newsletter at https://gretchenrubin.com/  Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Momentous. Visit https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use code JEFFERSON for 35% off your first order. Our Place. Visit fromourplace.com/JEFFERSON and use code JEFFERSON for 10% off sitewide. https://fromourplace.com/?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=JEFFERSON  BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’ve never regretted saying the kind thing—even when it’s the last thing I wanted to do. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to respond with clarity and strength when you’re triggered, frustrated, or just done. You’ll learn one powerful phrase that instantly defuses tension, how to speak in a way you won’t regret, and a mindset shift that’ll change the way you show up in every conversation. Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Pique. Head to PiqueLife.com/jefferson for 20% off. https://www.piquelife.com/pages/nandaka?rfsn=8750900.e68def&utm_source=affiliate&utm_campaign=nandakalp&utm_medium=Pod&utm_content=jefferson_fisher  BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like you’re not being taken seriously at work? In this episode, I’m sharing three tools that will instantly level up how you’re perceived in meetings and conversations. From how you speak to how you set boundaries, these simple shifts will help you show up with more confidence—and earn the respect you deserve without changing who you are. Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Momentous. Visit https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use code JEFFERSON for 35% off your first order. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever had someone start talking over you while you were still mid-sentence? In this episode, I break down exactly what to do when that happens. You’ll learn the common mistakes people make, how to respond without escalating things, and why using someone’s name can shift the entire tone. It’s all about staying grounded, speaking up, and keeping control of the conversation. Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. LMNT. Head to drinkLMNT.com/jefferson to try risk free. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is one of the wildest, most powerful comeback stories you’ll ever hear. Damon West was sentenced to 65 years in a Texas prison. Let that sink in. And yet—through mindset, service, and intentional communication—he not only turned his life around but went on to inspire thousands with his message of being a “coffee bean.” We talk about the power of how you speak to yourself (not just listen), how to lead with service, and how one conversation can truly change the direction of your entire life. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Thank you to our sponsors: Momentous - https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use code JEFFERSON for 35% off your first subscription. Our Place - https://fromourplace.com/JEFFERSON and use code JEFFERSON for 10% off sitewide. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk about the silent treatment—because it’s not just silence, it’s control. In this episode, I’ll show you how to spot it, how to stop chasing it, and exactly what to say to take back your power without matching the bad behavior. If someone goes quiet to punish you, this episode is your playbook for handling it with confidence and emotional maturity. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You ever been in a conversation that wasn’t really a conversation—more like words flying at your face at full volume? Yeah, I’ve been there too. In today’s episode, I’m giving you three super practical ways to hold your ground and keep your cool when someone else is losing theirs. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like you’re talking to a wall when dealing with someone who just won’t take accountability? You might be dealing with a narcissist—or at least someone showing strong narcissistic behaviors. In this episode, I break down exactly how to talk to those people without losing your cool, your confidence, or your sanity. Whether this person is your boss, your sibling, or your partner—you’ll walk away from this episode knowing exactly how to protect your peace when things get heated. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Ask Me Anything episode, I’m answering your real questions—from how to handle a partner who shuts down after work, to what it actually takes to be a better listener, to what to do when someone lies to your face even after you show proof. These are everyday moments that trip a lot of us up, and I’m sharing the exact tools I use in my own life to stay calm, clear, and in control. Want your question answered next time? Join the newsletter! Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ending a relationship — whether it’s romantic, professional, or personal — is never easy. But dragging it out or softening the blow too much? That’s not kindness, that’s confusion. In this episode, I break down exactly how to cut ties with clarity and compassion, so you can move on without burning the bridge behind you. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how to answer “What’s your greatest weakness?” in a job interview—or how to ask for a raise without it getting awkward—this episode is for you. Jefferson sits down with workplace communication expert and viral career content creator Erin McGoff to break down the exact words to use in the trickiest on-the-job conversations. From handling passive-aggressive coworkers to quitting your job with grace (and keeping that door open), Erin shares practical advice and real scripts you can start using today. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Who you're around shapes how you speak. In this episode, I walk you through a personal communication audit—looking at who’s influencing your voice, what words no longer serve you, and how to raise your standard by surrounding yourself with people who lift you up. This is about breaking old patterns, speaking with purpose, and setting the tone for how you show up in the world. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTokFollow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If somebody came and wiped out my entire reputation and communication history — gone, erased — this is exactly how I’d rebuild it. In today’s episode, I’m sharing the three rules I would live by if I had to start over from scratch. We’re talking about how every word matters, why consistency is non-negotiable, and how welcoming the hard conversations can completely change the game. If you want to be known as someone who leaves a lasting, positive impact — at work, at home, everywhere — this is where it starts. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Special Offer! To celebrate Moms everywhere, this weekend only, May 2-4, Cozy Earth is giving my listeners a special promo: Buy One, Get One Free bamboo pajamas!! Use code JEFFERSONBOGO to take advantage of this! She deserves the best! Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a parent, there’s nothing more important than teaching your kids how to communicate — how to handle a "no," how to disagree without disrespect, and how to show kindness even when it’s hard. That’s what this episode is all about. I’m sharing a few key lessons from my own upbringing and how my wife and I are applying them with our two kids today If you're serious about raising kids who can communicate clearly, respectfully, and powerfully — this one's for you. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Also, come meet me on my book tour!  Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever been in a conversation where no matter what you say, it’s clear—there’s no winning? Some people are committed to misunderstanding you. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down how to protect your peace, stand your ground, and keep your integrity when someone’s trying to make you the villain in their story. Whether it’s a bully, a manipulator, or someone you just can’t reason with, this episode will help you hold your standard and respond without losing yourself. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Also, come meet me on my book tour!  Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk about nerves. I say this all the time—it is totally normal to feel nervous before a conversation. In fact, it's a good thing. It means you care. But what you do with that nervousness can completely change how the conversation goes. In this episode, I’m sharing three techniques I use myself and teach often—especially when people ask me how to stay calm, confident, and connected when it matters most. Whether you’ve got a big conversation coming up or just want to communicate with more ease, this one’s for you. This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 40% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Order my new book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Also, come meet me on my book tour!  Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show!  Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter.  Join My School of Communication Watch my podcast on YouTube  Follow me on Instagram  Follow me on TikTok Follow me on LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices