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Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart
225 episodes
1 day ago
One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication. Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges. Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships. Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.
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All content for Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques is the property of Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication. Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges. Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships. Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.
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Episodes (20/225)
Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
218. Teaching Truths & Tactics: Live Lessons From Stanford in Capetown

Real connection means understanding your audience, staying true to yourself, and creating space for others.


How do you communicate who you are, what you stand for, and leave space for others to do the same? At the Stanford Seed Summit in Cape Town, South Africa, three GSB professors explored why real connection is built through authentic communication.

For Jesper Sørensen, authentic organizational communication means talking about a business in ways customers or investors can understand, like using analogies to relate a new business model to one that people already know. For incoming GSB Dean Sarah Soule, authentic communication is about truth, not trends. Her research on "corporate confession" shows that companies build trust when they admit their shortcomings — but only if those admissions connect authentically to their core business. And for Christian Wheeler, authentic communication means suspending judgment of ourselves and others. “We have a tendency to rush to categorization, to assume that we understand things before we really do,” he says. “Get used to postponing judgment.”

In this special live episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams and his panel of guests explore communication challenges for budding entrepreneurs. From the risks of comparing yourself to competitors to how your phone might undermine genuine connection, they reveal how authentic communication — whether organizational or personal — requires understanding your audience, staying true to your values, and creating space for others to be heard.

Episode Reference Links:

  • Jesper Sørensen
  • Christian Wheeler
  • Sarah Soule
  • Ep.194 Live Lessons in Levity and Leadership: Me2We 2025 Part 1
     

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
  • (01:04) - Jesper Sørensen on Strategic Analogies
  • (04:06) - Sarah Soule on Corporate Confessions
  • (08:46) - Christian Wheeler on Spontaneity & Presence
  • (12:06) - Panel Discussion: AI’s Role in Research, Teaching, & Life
  • (17:52) - Professors Share Current Projects
  • (22:55) - Live Audience Q&A
  • (32:53) - 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.       

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5 days ago
34 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
217. Rethinks: How to Build Deep Connections

How to be a skilled conversationalist in work, love, and life.

Whether you’re trying to build a romantic or professional connection, Rachel Greenwald’s advice is exactly the same. “Focus on how you make someone feel more than you focus on the words that you're saying,” she says. 

As a professional coach, Greenwald helps people develop better communication skills, from executives in the business world to singles in the dating world. Building deep connections may at times be challenging, but as Greenwald says, it’s ultimately not complicated. “You're demonstrating that you're interested in someone and that you like them,” she says.

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Greenwald and host Matt Abrahams discuss relationship-building tactics like small talk, active listening, communication blindspots, and more.

Episode Reference Links:

  • Rachel Greenwald
     

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
  • (02:10) - Don’t Be a Data Collector
  • (06:36) - How to Start and End Small Talk
  • (11:23) - Romance vs. Work Communication
  • (14:44) - The Role of Humor and Light Banter
  • (17:30) - Conversation Pitfalls
  • (21:49) - The Final Three Question
  • (27:35) - Conclusion

  ********
Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code TFA at checkout and get 60%off an annual plan

Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.      

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1 week ago
28 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
216. Wired for Words: A Neuroscientist’s Guide to Influence

Understanding your audience's psychology is the key to crafting communication that resonates.


Persuading others isn't about magic spells or mind-reading tricks. According to Emily Falk, the real secret is simpler: know what your audience finds relevant, and you’ll be able to craft a message that resonates.

Falk is a professor of communication, psychology, and marketing at the University of Pennsylvania, Vice Dean of the Annenberg School of Communication, and director of the Communication Neuroscience Lab. In her book What We Value: The Neuroscience of Choice and Change, she reveals that our brains have what she calls a "social relevance system" — our ability to understand what other people are thinking and feeling. "I use social relevance as this kind of catchall for these thoughts about what other people are thinking and feeling, which also helps us predict what they're gonna do and how we might communicate successfully with them," she explains.

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Falk and host Matt Abrahams explore how to put this insight into practice, from the power of storytelling to leveraging "neural synchrony" to create shared understanding. Whether you’re motivating a team or influencing a customer, Falk offers science-backed strategies for tapping into your audience’s psychology and communicating with relevance.

Episode Reference Links:

  • Emily Falk
  • Emily’s Book: What We Value
  • Ep.39 Brains Love Stories: How Leveraging Neuroscience Can Capture People's Emotions
  • Ep.188 Mind Reading 101: To Know What Your Audience Thinks, Just Ask 
     

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) - Neuroscience & Behavior Prediction
  • (04:05) - Brain Systems in Persuasion
  • (05:28) - Tailoring Messages for Impact
  • (08:06) - Psychological Closeness & Relevance
  • (10:34) - Power of Storytelling
  • (13:48) - Neural Synchrony & Shared Meaning
  • (15:33) - Better Conversations Through Sync
  • (19:37) - Rapid-Fire Q&A with Emily Falk
  • (24:23) - 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.     

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2 weeks ago
26 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
215. The New Media Landscape: Trust, Transparency, and Transformation

For your communication to be credible, you can’t just say it — you have to do it.


Want people to believe what you say? According to Richard Edelman, the words you choose only get you halfway there. To build real trust, he says, you have to practice what you preach.

“Action builds trust,” says Edelman. “If you don't do something, you can't talk about it.” As the president and CEO of Edelman, a leading global communications marketing firm, Edelman is widely recognized for his thought leadership in marketing and PR, especially on issues related to corporate trust, brand reputation, and social responsibility. His annual Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a sobering reality: "Two-thirds of people believe leaders lie to them now, business leaders, government leaders, even journalists." For people and organizations that want to rebuild trust, whether in a one-on-one relationship or with a customer base of millions, Edelman’s advice is simple: "Decide, do, communicate."

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Edelman and host Matt Abrahams explore strategies for winning trust when traditional authority no longer guarantees it. In an age of skepticism, Edelman's insights show that sustainable trust comes not from perfect messaging, but from consistently aligning your actions with your words.

Episode Reference Links:

  • Richard Edelman
  • 158. Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through 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
  • (03:06) - The Evolution of Trust
  • (04:17) - Rebuilding Trust After a Breach
  • (05:10) - Leaders as Influencers
  • (06:22) - New Media Ecosystems
  • (08:06) - The Role of AI in Communication
  • (09:26) - Key Qualities for Future Leaders
  • (10:26) - The Final Three Questions
  • (17:57) - 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.    

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2 weeks ago
19 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
214. From Crisis to Clarity: Simplicity, Feedback, and the Art of Being Heard

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.      

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3 weeks ago
24 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
213. Rethinks: Building Trusting Relationships Through Communication

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
  • (29:16) - 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.    

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4 weeks ago
30 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
212. Break It to Make It: Disrupt Your Way to the Perfect Job Fit

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
  • (01:36) - What Is Personal Disruption?
  • (04:41) - Signs It’s Time to Disrupt Yourself
  • (07:03) - Getting Comfortable with Discomfort
  • (12:00) - Finding Your Next Career Move
  • (15:49) - Ensuring Fulfillment After Disruption
  • (21:04) - Best Career Advice Received
  • (22:37) - Career Regrets & Lessons
  • (24:08) - 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.        

Show more...
1 month ago
25 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
211. Small Screens, Strong Signals: Mastering Modern Communication

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
  • (02:34) - What Is Virtual Communication?
  • (03:20) - Choosing the Right Channel for Your Goal
  • (06:05) - The Ping Framework: Secrets to Virtual Communication
  • (10:01) - Understanding Communication Richness
  • (13:03) - Nonverbals in Virtual Communication
  • (16:47) - The Final Three Question
  • (24:37) - 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.   

Show more...
1 month ago
26 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
210. First Impression to Lasting Impact: Use Status Strategically

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
  • (02:21) - Defining Power and Status
  • (05:26) - Why Status Comes Before Power
  • (06:19) - Communication Techniques to Build Status
  • (09:27) - Evaluating Your Habits: Nonverbal and Verbal Cues
  • (11:21) - Mentorship in Developing Communication
  • (13:13) - Adapting to a New Work Culture
  • (18:41) - Representing Difference Without Distance
  • (19:49) - Overcoming Bad First Impressions
  • (21:47) - The Final Three Question
  • (25:32) - 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.       

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1 month ago
27 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
209. Find Your Fit, Find Your Focus - Catalyze Your Career

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
  • (03:49) - Identifying Roles with Curiosity
  • (06:49) - Investigating Companies & Roles
  • (08:13) - Initiating Contact Effectively
  • (11:29) - Crafting a Strong Narrative
  • (12:41) - How Job Match Can Help
  • (16:01) - Strategic vs. Shotgun Approach
  • (21:00) - Best Career Advice Received
  • (21:56) - Career Regrets & Lessons
  • (23:25) - 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.  

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1 month ago
25 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
208. Ambiguity to Action: Tensions and Trade-Offs of Leadership and Communication

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
  • (03:18) - Systems Leadership and Cross Pressures
  • (04:40) - Communication and Context
  • (05:26) - Framing Complex Ideas
  • (06:21) - Innovation vs. Execution
  • (08:11) - Leading Through Ambiguity
  • (09:33) - Short-Term vs. Long-Term Focus
  • (12:44) - Balancing Strength and Empathy
  • (15:26) - Leadership with Humanity
  • (16:42) - Engaging Students Effectively
  • (20:00) - The Final Three Questions
  • (23:41) - Conclusion

   *****
This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford Report
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1 month ago
25 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
207. From Conflict to Connection: Having Crucial Conversations that Count

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
  • (02:05) - Influence & Why It Matters
  • (04:04) - Truth & Love: The Foundation of Accountability
  • (06:24) - Showing You Care & Respect Others
  • (08:08) - Recognizing Motives in High-Stakes Moment
  • (14:02) - Managing Emotions in Crucial Conversations
  • (19:57) - The Final Three Questions
  • (25:13) - 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
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1 month ago
26 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
206. Crafting Narratives That Motivate: What’s Your Strategy Story?

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
  • (02:19) - Using Story in Strategy
  • (05:00) - Questions as a Communication Technology
  • (06:15) - The Six Steps to Harnessing Imagination
  • (10:36) - The “7 Cs” of Imagination and Communication
  • (12:08) - Reframing as a Creative Tool
  • (14:11) - The Like Button: Origin and Evolution
  • (16:14) - Brain Chemistry Behind Digital Liking
  • (18:12) - The Final Three Questions
  • (22:59) - Conclusion

   *****
This episode is sponsored by Stanford. Groundbreaking research happens everyday at Stanford, learn more here.
Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.       

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2 months ago
24 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
205. Say What Sucks: Catalyzing Organizational Change with AI

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
  • (04:42) - The Business Behind Basketball
  • (06:13) - Why AI and Why Now?
  • (07:21) - Collaborating with the Team
  • (08:39) - The Lunch & Launch Method
  • (11:11) - Branding AI Initiatives
  • (12:29) - David Detractor & Kelly Kindness
  • (16:00) - Human Connection through AI
  • (16:45) - Auditing for Brand Consistency
  • (18:53) - AI in National Parks
  • (21:36) - Making AI Personal
  • (22:58) - Using AI to Learn AI
  • (27:27) - Encouraging AI in the Workplace
  • (30:21) - Change Management: Iteration Over Perfection
  • (34:07) - Start with Curiosity and Empower Action
  • (37:50) - Communication Ingredients
  • (39:22) - 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.  

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2 months ago
41 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
204. Tough Talks: Turn Tension Into Trust

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
  • (04:15) - Why Emotions Matter
  • (07:23) - Shifting the Story We Tell Ourselves
  • (08:41) - Starting with the Real Issue
  • (10:20) - Getting Unstuck in Conflict
  • (13:18) - ACE: The Three Types of Feedback
  • (16:20) - Making Feedback Actionable
  • (18:40) - Finding Common Ground
  • (20:17) - The Final Three Questions
  • (27:32) - 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.       

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2 months ago
29 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
203. No Script, No Problem: Final Secrets to Speaking Under Pressure (Bonus)

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
  • (01:56) - The Power of Structure
  • (05:48) - Expert Tip: Trust Yourself
  • (06:09) - Expert Tip: Project Confidence & Provide Value
  • (07:48) - Expert Tip: Ask for What You Need & Visualization
  • (10:15) - Expert Tip: Review & Reflect
  • (12:15) - Expert Tip: Use an Encouraging Tone
  • (12:36) - Expert Tip: Turn Observation into Storytelling
  • (14:29) - 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.   

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2 months ago
16 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
202. Own Your Brand: How to Communicate with Presence and Impact

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
  • (01:53) - Tips for Virtual Presence
  • (03:45) - Public Speaking Insights
  • (06:30) - The Importance of Mentors & Sponsors
  • (07:45) - Personal Branding on Social Media
  • (10:20) - EPIC Career Brand Framework
  • (12:45) - Unique & Powerful Introductions
  • (15:00) - Conversational Threading
  • (16:09) - Avoiding Resting Business Face
  • (18:01) - The Final Three Question
  • (22:02) - 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.  

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2 months ago
23 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
201. Ballpark to the Boardroom: How Alex Rodriguez Hits a Communication Home Run

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
  • (02:53) - Teaching at Stanford: Strategic Pivoting
  • (04:28) - Preparing for Life After Baseball
  • (06:51) - Performing Under Pressure
  • (08:16) - Finding Balance Post-Pandemic
  • (09:14) - Building a Media Presence
  • (11:05) - Creating Great Teams
  • (12:15) - The Role of Ego and Intentional Listening
  • (14:26) - Giving and Receiving Feedback
  • (17:06) - Setbacks, Resilience, and Redemption
  • (20:09) - Developing Authenticity
  • (21:39) - The Final Three Questions
  • (25:31) - 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.       

Show more...
2 months ago
26 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
200. Four Keys for Focused Communication: Live Lessons from Our 200 Episodes

This live Q&A with host Matt Abrahams celebrates 200 episodes of Think Fast, Talk Smart.


In an age of endless content and information, how do we ensure our communication cuts through the noise? Across 200 episodes of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams has discovered four essential ingredients that help messages rise above the chatter: concision, relevance, accessibility, and precision.

“Attention is our most precious commodity in the world today, and we need to make sure that we engage our audience so we get their attention,” says Abrahams in this special 200th episode. How do we capture and keep that attention? As he’s explored with guests throughout the show, effective and engaging communication — from all kinds of people and in all kinds of places — is concise, relevant, accessible, and precise.

In this special 200th episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams shares insights gleaned from hundreds of conversations with communication experts, followed by a live Q&A with listeners from around the world. From crafting compelling elevator pitches to managing speaking anxiety, this celebration episode offers practical advice for focused communication that is sure to be the focus of your audience’s attention.

Episode Reference Links:

  • Jenny Luna 
  • Ep.78 Three Guiding Principles for Successful 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
  • (04:30) - Concision in Effective Messaging
  • (07:42) - Make Your Message Relevant
  • (13:34) - Ensuring Accessibility
  • (17:46) - The Importance of Precision
  • (24:35) - Craft an Impactful Elevator Pitch
  • (28:23) - Build a Stronger Vocabulary
  • (30:19) - Communicating Numbers and Data
  • (32:48) - Responding When Caught Off Guard
  • (34:47) - Confidence for Speaking and Presenting
  • (37:45) - Steering Conversations Back on Track
  • (40:18) - Dream Podcast Guest
  • (41:19) - What’s Coming Next
  • (42:59) - Conclusion

  *****
Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford Report
Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.      

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3 months ago
43 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
199. Blunder Pressure: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (3 of 3)

This three-part miniseries is all about keeping your cool when speaking on the spot.

Communicating effectively can be challenging enough, even with plenty of time to prepare what we want to say. But for most of our communication, there’s no time to plan, practice, or perfect — we have to respond in the moment.

Spontaneous communication is a part of our everyday lives, but few of us have been trained to handle these impromptu situations with confidence. What does it take to flow, not freeze, when put on the spot? This special three-part series turns to experts for guidance, from a sports commentator, FBI hostage negotiator, and UN translator to a game show host, NFL referee and Sotheby’s auctioneer.

Part 1: Preparation and Mindset

Discover how to prepare for the unpredictable, manage anxiety, and find the right headspace for success.

Part 2: Mastering the Moment

Learn to stay present, read the room, and use techniques like mirroring and pacing to connect with your audience.

Part 3: When Things Go Wrong

Find out how to recover from inevitable mishaps and keep moving forward with confidence, turning mistakes into gold.

In addition to insight-packed discussions, this Think Fast, Talk Smart miniseries offers practical exercises and homework assignments to help you implement what you've learned. Whether you draw blanks when put on the spot or simply want to articulate your thoughts more clearly in the moment, these episodes will transform how you think — and speak — on your feet.

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
  • (02:42) - Focus on What’s Next, Not What Went Wrong
  • (04:40) - Failure with Confidence
  • (06:45) - Flexibility Over a Fixed Plan
  • (08:28) - Staying Cool in Public Slip-Ups
  • (10:36) - Using Laughter to Reset
  • (13:05) - Gracefully Correcting Yourself
  • (14:42) - Staying Calm Under Pressure
  • (19:40) - Listener Exercises on Reflecting to Improve
  • (21:56) - Conclusion

  *****
Stay up to date on the next great discovery at Stanford by signing up for the Stanford Report
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.      

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3 months ago
22 minutes

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication. Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges. Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships. Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.