Join Matt Abrahams, a lecturer of Strategic Communication at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he sits down with experts in the field to discuss real-world challenges. How do I send my message clearly when put on the spot? How do I write emails to get my point across? How can I easily convey complex information? How do I manage my reputation? Whether you’re giving a toast or presenting in a meeting, communication is critical to success in business and in life.Think Fast, Talk Smart provides the tools, techniques, and best practices to help you communicate more effectively.
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234. Need to Know: Lead With Transparency, Character, and Silence
When it comes to leading a team, there’s no such thing as too much information.Good leadership is about good communication. And for General Stanley McChrystal, that means creating a culture of free-flowing information: “The goal is to have everyone know everything all the time,” he says.McChrystal is a retired four-star general, former commander of US and international forces in Afghanistan, and a renowned leadership expert. In his experience building cohesive teams in complex environments, he’s discovered that successful teams are built on a “shared consciousness [where] all have a common contextual understanding of what the situation is.” The key to creating that kind of culture, he says, is radical transparency — from leaders and subordinates alike. Whatever your position, “You are responsible for informing other people of things that they need to know,” he says.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, McChrystal and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to build shared consciousness within teams, how to communicate across cultural divides, and how to lead with clarity, context, and character.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:General Stanley McChrystalGeneral McChrystal’s Books: On Character / Team of Teams155. Can We Be Candid? How to Communicate Clearly and Directly161. Do Your Homework: Know What to Say by Knowing Who You’re Talking To Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:47) - Building Shared Consciousness (05:57) - Leading Across Differences (07:37) - Delivering Difficult News (10:02) - Communicating in a Virtual World (16:01) - Character as an Iterative Practice (18:11) - The Final Three Questions (23:07) - 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.
233. Tech Tools: Write with Confidence and Impact
Transform how you communicate with tools that make your message stick.Clarity is the cornerstone of great communication—but turning your thoughts into words isn’t always simple. That’s why Grammarly exists: to help you express yourself with confidence and precision, no matter the context.For over a decade, Grammarly has helped millions of people improve their writing, from everyday emails to high-stakes professional communications. In this episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Tech Tools miniseries, host Matt Abrahams talks with Grammarly co-founder Max Lytvyn about the origins of the tool, how AI is shaping the future of writing, and why starting with your goal is the key to effective communication.In addition to insight-packed discussions, this miniseries explores innovative tools that enhance the way we communicate and connect. Whether you want to make your presentations more memorable, craft stories that stick, or connect with your audience on a deeper level, these episodes will help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.Episode Reference Links:Max Lytvyn Ep.227 Tech Tools: Move Your Audience By Moving Through Your Presentation Ep.230 Tech Tools: Use Visuals to Your Advantage Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:14) - The Origins of Grammarly (02:50) - Grammarly Elevator Structure (04:54) - Lessons on Improving Writing (07:11) - Favorite Communicator (08:08) - Communication Hack or Tool (11:02) - Conclusion *******Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Try Prezi today and get 25% off exclusively at prezi.com/thinkfast.
232. Pause, Don’t Panic: Finding Calm in High-Stakes Moments
To connect with others, you have to get out of your own head.Whether presenting to millions on live television or talking to just one person, Dan Harris knows that the quality of every interaction depends on the presence you bring to it.Harris is a former national news anchor for ABC News and is now the host of the 10% Happier podcast and author of 10% Happier and Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics. As he knows from experience, there’s power in “Waking up to something fundamental, that the mind is out of control, and you don't want to be owned by it.” How do we break the pattern of being controlled by our thoughts? Mindfulness and self-awareness, he says, put “distance” between us and our “thoughts and urges and emotions,” enabling us to connect with ourselves and others with greater consciousness and clarity.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Harris and host Matt Abrahams discuss how mindfulness can transform our communication, sharing strategies for deeper listening, responding versus reacting, and reflecting what others say back to them. “Relationships are the most important aspect of your happiness,” Harris says. The quality of those connections goes up when “you’re “less stuck in your own head.”Episode Reference Links:Dan HarrisDan’s Books: 10% Happier / Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics Ep.179 Finding Positive in Negative Emotions: Communication, Happiness & Wellbeing Ep.180 Unlocking Your Future Self: Communication, Happiness & Wellbeing Ep.181 Why Happiness is a Direction, Not a Destination: Communication, Happiness & Wellbeing Ep.182 Stop Chasing Time and Start Owning It: Communication, Happiness & Wellbeing Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:51) - On-Air Panic Attack (02:59) - Managing Communication Anxiety (04:01) - Nervousness Before Live Audiences (05:48) - Meditation Misconceptions (09:36) - Responding vs. Reacting (12:07) - Mindfulness & Productivity (15:11) - Lessons from Interviewing (17:19) - The Final Three Question (25:14) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smart
231. Secret Signals: Why We Rarely Say Exactly What We Mean
Why what isn’t said can communicate more than what is spoken.We often speak in hints and half-truths, not because we can’t be direct, but because subtlety protects our relationships. “An awful lot of the time, we don’t just blurt out what we mean,” says Steven Pinker. “We hint, we wink, we beat around the bush — counting on our listener to read between the lines, connect the dots, catch our drift.”Pinker is the Johnstone Professor of Psychology at Harvard University, a celebrated linguist and cognitive scientist, and the author of twelve influential books. His latest, When Everyone Knows That Everyone Knows: Common Knowledge and the Mysteries of Money, Power, and Everyday Life, explores how our shared understanding of awareness — what Steven refers to as common knowledge — and the way we signal it, governs everything from friendships to authority to negotiations. “Common knowledge is what ratifies or annuls social relationships, and that's why blurting something out that contradicts the assumptions of the relationship can blow everything up and be deeply awkward.” In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Pinker joins host Matt Abrahams to discuss why humans lean on innuendo, euphemism, and strategic ambiguity. They examine how culture and context shape what we hear, why our social fabric depends on more than just literal meaning, and offer practical ways to refine our communication by paying attention not just to what we say, but to what others know we know.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Steven PinkerSteven’s Book: When Everyone Knows That Everyone KnowsEp.91 Um, Like, So: How Filler Words Can Create More Connected, Effective CommunicationEp.225 Speaking Fluent Internet: How Algorithms Are Changing the Way We Speak Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:23) - Why We Speak Indirectly (06:39) - The Role of Context (10:35) - Cross-Cultural Perspectives (11:51) - Hypocrisy as Social Glue (13:43) - Clarity, Conciseness, & Grace (17:07) - Metaphors We Live By (20:06) - The Final Three Questions (24:02) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Build a better website with Squarespace today. Try Squarespace free for 14 days and receive 10% off your first purchase Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
230. Tech Tools: Use Visuals to Your Advantage
Transform how you communicate with tools that make your message stick.Clear communication isn’t just about sharing information — it’s about making ideas stick. That’s why Yuhki Yamashita, Chief Product Officer at Figma, believes the key to effective collaboration lies in turning complex concepts into simple, memorable visuals.For years, Figma has been reshaping the way teams brainstorm, design, and build together — making it easier than ever to bring ideas to life in real time. In this episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Tech Tools miniseries, host Matt Abrahams talks with Yamashita about how visuals facilitate shared understanding, why frameworks enhance team communication, and how to craft insights that people naturally remember and reuse.In addition to insight-packed discussions, this miniseries explores innovative tools that enhance the way we communicate and connect. Whether you want to make your presentations more memorable, craft stories that stick, or connect with your audience on a deeper level, these episodes will help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.Episode Reference Links:Yuhki Yamashita Ep.227 Tech Tools: Move Your Audience By Moving Through Your Presentation Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:16) - Figma Elevator Structure (02:07) - Joining Figma (03:17) - The Power of Visual Storytelling (04:36) - Creating Shared Meaning with Visuals (05:37) - Favorite Communicator (08:59) - Communication Hack or Tool (10:36) - Conclusion *******Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Try Prezi today and get 25% off exclusively at prezi.com/thinkfast.
229. Rethinks: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot
To celebrate its second anniversary, we revisit our favourite tools and tips from Matt’s book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter.Original executive producer Jenny Luna turns the tables and interviews host and strategic communications lecturer Matt Abrahams about his bestselling book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot. To celebrate the book’s second anniversary, this special Rethinks episode dives into Matt’s most practical tips, powerful frameworks, and mindset shifts to help you speak with confidence in any spontaneous situation. From managing anxiety to structuring your thoughts on the fly, it’s filled with tools to help you become a more effective communicator.Episode Reference Links:Jenny LunaThink Faster Talk Smarter Ep.10 High-Stakes Communication: How to Manage Anxiety When Speaking in Front of OthersEp.112 From Mistakes to "Missed Takes"Ep.107 Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:15) - Defining Spontaneous Speaking (04:05) - Origins of Matt’s Interest (04:56) - The Six-Step Methodology (05:41) - Shifting Your Mindset (09:51) - Practical Structures for Speaking (12:06) - The “F-Word” of Spontaneous Speaking (13:39) - Communication Lessons from Martial Arts (14:59) - The Karate Pants Story (16:55) - Hosting 100 Episodes (18:10) - On-the-Spot Challenges (24:38) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Build a better website with Squarespace today. Try Squarespace free for 14 days and receive 10% off your first purchase Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
228. Negotiate Your Way to Success: Empathy, Mirroring, and Labeling
Be ready, stay grounded, and communicate clearly — no matter what’s at stake.Communicating under pressure isn’t just a useful skill — it can be the difference between escalation and resolution. For Chris Voss, former FBI hostage negotiator and CEO of The Black Swan Group, it’s a daily discipline built on empathy, self-regulation, and intentional listening. In this expanded conversation from our Spontaneous Speaking miniseries, Voss offers a rare window into the mindset and methods that helped him show up calm, focused, and adaptable when the pressure is sky-high.“Emotional intelligence is an insane accelerator to outcomes,” Voss shares, explaining how empathy, tone, and timing can shift the direction of any conversation. He breaks down techniques like labeling and mirroring, explores how to use silence and word choice strategically, and explains why overthinking can be just as risky as acting too fast. From gut-level pattern recognition to tactical use of voice, Voss shows how communication becomes more impactful when we’re not trying to control — but to connect.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Voss and host Matt Abrahams dive into how negotiation techniques developed for life-or-death situations can be applied far beyond them — offering powerful takeaways for anyone who needs to think clearly under pressure, stay agile in the moment, and communicate effectively when it matters most.Episode Reference Links:Chris Voss Chris’s Book: Never Split the Difference Ep.197 Prep or Perish: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (1 of 3)Ep.198 Pause and Effect: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (2 of 3)Ep.199 Blunder Pressure: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (3 of 3)Ep.203 No Script, No Problem: Final Secrets to Speaking Under Pressure (Bonus) Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:50) - Path to Hostage Negotiation (03:42) - Power of Emotional Intelligence (05:00) - Staying Calm Under Pressure (06:10) - Mental Prep & Mindset (07:18) - Trusting Your Gut (07:58) - Avoiding Overthinking (09:01) - Flexibility in Negotiations (10:15) - Listen More, Talk Less (10:31) - Labeling & Mirroring (12:51) - Tone Shapes Impact (14:06) - The Final Three Questions (19:37) - Conclusion *****Thank you to our sponsors:Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartSupport Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.
227. Tech Tools: Move Your Audience By Moving Through Your Presentation
Transform how you communicate with tools that make your message stick.Great communication isn’t just about what you say — it’s about what your audience remembers. That’s why Jim Szafranski, CEO of Prezi, believes that visuals and storytelling are key to making ideas stick.For more than 15 years, Prezi has been reimagining the way we share information, helping communicators move beyond static slides and into dynamic, memorable experiences. In the first episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Tech Tools miniseries, host Matt Abrahams talks with Szafranski about why visuals are so powerful for retention, how non-linear storytelling can make presentations more engaging, and the role AI now plays in shaping the stories we tell.In addition to insight-packed discussions, this miniseries explores innovative tools that enhance the way we communicate and connect. Whether you want to make your presentations more memorable, craft stories that stick, or connect with your audience on a deeper level, these episodes will help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.Episode Reference Links:Jim SzafranskiPrezi Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:18) - Prezi Elevator Structure (02:09) - The Power of Visuals in Storytelling (04:12) - Making Complex Ideas Simple (06:22) - When to Use Visuals (09:01) - Advantages of Non-Linear Storytelling (11:26) - AI’s Role in Visual Communication (14:22) - Favorite Communicator (15:37) - Communication Hack or Tool (17:28) - Conclusion *******Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Try Prezi today and get 25% off exclusively at prezi.com/thinkfast.
226. Reinvent Yourself: Turning Uncertainty Into Opportunity
Reinventing your life or career starts with reflection and conversation. Making the leap — to a new career, to the next stage of a relationship, or to a different version of yourself — requires honest communication. For Ilana Golan, being “leap-ready” requires that we answer three questions: Why me? Why this? And why now?Golan knows all about these leaps, as her career spans corporate executive roles, entrepreneurship, and even F-16 flight instruction. As the founder of Leap Academy and host of the Leap Academy Podcast, she helps equip others to navigate their own personal and professional reinventions. As she says, “It’s really about communicating from the vision,” which starts as an inside job. “Why is this the right thing for me right now? You convince yourself first, because when you're [at] peace with what you're trying to do, it's a lot easier to convince others.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Golan and host Matt Abrahams explore how honest communication shapes every stage of reinvention, whether that’s listening to the signals your mind and body are sending you — like “sleepwalking through life” and imagining something more — or articulating your pivot in ways that create understanding rather than resistance. Wherever you hope to leap, Golan’s insights show how to communicate through change with confidence and clarity.Episode Reference Links:Ilana GolanLeap Academy Podcast | Leap AcademyEp.187 Experimenting, Failing, and Finding Your Job Fit - Catalyze Your CareerEp.147 Disrupt Yourself: How to Innovate Who You Are and Become Who You Can Be Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:39) - Breaking Barriers & Career Patterns (02:18) - Waking Up to Change (03:42) - Signs It’s Time for a Pivot (06:45) - The Rise of Portfolio Careers (10:17) - Communicating Career Leaps (13:29) - Finding Clarity in Reinvention (20:01) - The Final Three Questions (22:56) - Conclusion *****Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you for free.This episode is brought to you by Babbel. Think Fast Talk Smart listeners can start your language learning journey today- visit Babbel.com/Thinkfast and get up to 55% off your Babbel subscription.
225. Speaking Fluent Internet: How Algorithms Are Changing the Way We Speak
In the digital age, it’s critical to craft communication that fits the context.Like it or not, algorithms now decide whose messages get heard. “If you want to communicate effectively,” says Adam Aleksic, “you need to be exactly aware of what that medium is doing.”Aleksic is a linguist, author, and educational content creator with millions of followers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. His latest book, Algospeak: How Social Media Is Transforming the Future of Language, explores how the platforms we use create new contexts that require new ways of communicating. “Every medium uniquely affects how we communicate, and we adapt our speech to these media,” he says. In the same way that we tailor communication for the contexts of the office, the gym, or the bar, digital platforms — and the algorithms that drive them — require the same contextualized communication. “You have to appeal to [the] algorithm,” he says.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Aleksic and host Matt Abrahams examine how words are born, change meaning, and spread in the digital age. Their conversation highlights practical ways to be more intentional with the words we choose by considering the medium, understanding the context, and adapting communication accordingly.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Adam AleksicAdam’s Book: AlgospeakEp.91 Um, Like, So: How Filler Words Can Create More Connected, Effective Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:21) - Language, Labels, & Identity (04:40) - What Is Algospeak? (05:46) - Generational Language Gaps (08:03) - Communicating for Multiple Mediums (10:45) - Mastering Virality & Engagement (12:12) - Semiotics & Going Viral (13:58) - The Evolution of “Like” (15:09) - Hedging, Ambiguity, & Power Dynamics (17:47) - Actionable Takeaways on Communication (18:58) - Grammar: Rules, Context, & Changing Norms (21:01) - The Final Three Questions (26:50) - Conclusion *****Thank you to our sponsors:Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartBuild a beautiful website with Square Space for free today today, and when you're ready to launch, use code Thinkfast & save 10% Support Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.
224. Make Your Messages Epic: The Evolution of Words and the Stories They Carry
Why modern communication still relies on ancient words and narratives.All communication and connection depend on one thing: language. That’s why Laura Spinney says understanding language — where it comes from and how it evolves over time — can help us use it more effectively.“Language is incredibly powerful,” says Spinney, an author and journalist published in the Atlantic, National Geographic, Nature, and New Scientist. As “humanity’s oldest tool,” language has evolved as we have, which Spinney explores in her latest book, Proto: How One Ancient Language Went Global. In addition to the words themselves, there are also the stories that humans have carried with them for millennia. “Some stories that we still tell today,” Spinney notes, have remained stable for tens of thousands of years — providing more than just entertainment — shaping how we understand the world, share knowledge, and build community.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Spinney and host Matt Abrahams discuss why language and storytelling are fundamental to being human, what makes a story compelling, and how our ever-evolving language continues to be our best tool for communication and connection.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Laura Spinney Laura’s Books: Proto / Pale RiderEp.168 How Story Can Change Everything in Your CareerEp.91 Um, Like, So: How Filler Words Can Create More Connected, Effective Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:24) - Power & Limits of Language (02:55) - Detecting Lies (04:46) - Origins of Storytelling (07:42) - What Makes a Great Story (10:31) - Proto-Indo-European Language (12:52) - Language Families & Connections (15:06) - Language Clues in History (17:17) - The Final Three Questions (21:56) - Conclusion *****Thank you to our sponsors: Stanford Continuing Studies. Enroll today for my course starting September 30thStrawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartSupport Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.
223. Laughing Matters: Levity, Leadership, and Lasting Connection
By lightening up your communication, you can build serious connections.Humor in communication isn’t all fun and games. According to Alison Wood Brooks and Naomi Bagdonas, levity is one of the most serious tools we have in building successful connections.Wood Brooks and Bagdonas, both teachers, authors, and experts in the field of communication, recognize how crucial levity is to our professional and personal interactions. “It’s easy to think of [humor] as this extra bonus thing,” says Wood Brooks. “What we find is it’s incredibly core to how people are relating to each other.” Bagdonas agrees: “When there's the presence of laughter in team meetings, those teams are more successful and more creative. Leaders with a sense of humor—not even a good sense of humor—are seen as more motivating, more admired, [and] their teams report being more engaged.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wood Brooks and Bagdonas join host Matt Abrahams to explore levity as a mindset, or as Bagdonas puts it, “Navigating life on the precipice of a smile.” Together, they share how lightness and humor can break barriers, bridge connections, and unlock the door to better communication.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Alison Wood Brooks Alison’s Book: TalkNaomi Bagdonas Naomi’s Book: Humor, SeriouslyEp.13 Make ’Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your CommunicationEp.73 Listen Up: Why It’s Better to Be Interested Than InterestingEp.89 Listen, Listen, Listen: How to Build Deep ConnectionsEp.169 Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:13) - Talk Tour Insights (04:33) - Top Advice on Asking Questions (06:43) - Guiding Principles for Leaders (09:17) - Importance of Levity (11:17) - Why Humor Matters (13:06) - Letting Go of Comfort (16:24) - Overthinking Levity (18:30) - Creating Space for Levity (22:02) - Conclusion *****This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford ReportSupport Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.
222. Discussing through Discomfort: Why the Conversations You Avoid Cost You the Most
Some conversations are uncomfortable, but avoiding them comes with a cost.You want a more successful career, a more fulfilling relationship, a more meaningful life? What if all that’s standing in your way — are the conversations that you’re avoiding?“Most things that we want in life are on the other side of a difficult conversation,” says Jenn Wynn, a professor at NYU Stern School of Business and previously the director of education at the Obama Foundation. For nearly 10 years, she has taught a course on difficult conversations that equips people to communicate through discomfort in pursuit of what they want. “Sometimes it's a difficult conversation with a loved one, a colleague, a boss… sometimes it's a difficult conversation with myself,” she says. “Are you going to give up on your biggest dreams because you weren't willing to step out of your comfort zone?”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wynn and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to build the “hard but worth-it skills” necessary for difficult communication. Whether it's asking for a raise, setting boundaries, or addressing conflict, Wynn’s insights show that the conversations you’re avoiding aren’t just holding you back — they’re keeping you from the life you really want.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Jenn WynnThe H.I. Note: Healing Inspirations from LifeEp.22 Under Pressure: How to Communicate Clearly and Timely During a Crisis Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:27) - Understanding Difficult Conversations (04:44) - Developing Emotional Intelligence (05:44) - Self-Awareness, Pause, Reframe (07:59) - Common Communication Barriers (09:55) - Listening for Understanding (12:32) - Using AI for Communication (14:24) - Creating Psychological Safety (17:00) - The Final Three Questions (23:45) - Conclusion ********This Episode is brought to you by Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartBecome a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
221. Don’t Get Lost in Translation: Staying Cool When Every Word Counts
How do you stay clear, calm, and precise when every word counts and there’s no room for error?Staying calm and focused while translating high-stakes conversations in real time isn’t just a language skill — it’s a masterclass in communication under pressure. And for Giampaolo Bianchi, simultaneous interpreter for the United Nations and World Health Organization, it’s a challenge he meets with presence, precision, and a whole lot of preparation. In this expanded conversation from our Spontaneous Speaking series, Bianchi offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he prepares for — and performs in — moments where being calm, in control, and adaptable are essential.“We don’t translate words — we translate ideas,” Bianchi explains, highlighting the mindset shift that allows interpreters to go beyond language and convey meaning with clarity and nuance. He shares the role of rigorous preparation, physical grounding, and mental focus in his work, and explains how tools like note systems, pre-session rituals, and active listening help manage cognitive load during live interpretation.In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Bianchi and host Matt Abrahams explore how the principles of simultaneous interpretation apply far beyond the booth — offering valuable strategies for anyone who needs to communicate effectively under pressure, adapt in the moment, and ensure their smartest communication happens without a script.Episode Reference Links:Giampaolo BianchiEp.197 Prep or Perish: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (1 of 3)Ep.198 Pause and Effect: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (2 of 3)Ep.199 Blunder Pressure: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (3 of 3)Ep.203 No Script, No Problem: Final Secrets to Speaking Under Pressure (Bonus) Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (02:42) - Becoming a UN Interpreter (03:50) - Staying Calm Under Pressure (05:03) - Translating Emotion, Not Just Words (06:10) - Memory and Focus Techniques (07:51) - The Power of Preparation (09:17) - Pre-Meeting Rituals and Readiness (10:34) - Handling Mistakes in Real Time (11:44) - Interpreter Habits in Daily Life (12:45) - The Final Three Questions (17:28) - Conclusion *****This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford ReportSupport Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.
220. Prep Like a Pro: Communication Confidence, Clarity, and Comedy
Master the art of thinking on your feet and turning unpredictability into powerful communication.Being quick on your feet isn’t just a performance skill — it’s a communication necessity. And for Peter Sagal, longtime host of NPR’s Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me, it’s a craft he’s honed over more than two decades in front of a live audience. In this expanded conversation from our Spontaneous Speaking series, Sagal shares what it really takes to communicate with presence, flexibility, and confidence when the script goes out the window.“My job was no longer to be funny — my job was to make funny possible,” Sagal explains, reflecting on the shift from performer to facilitator. He opens up about how structure and ritual prepare him to embrace chaos, why listening matters more than cleverness, and how he defines success not by what he says, but by what others are able to say because of him. “Preparation is key,” he notes, “but being willing to let go of that preparation and follow what’s happening in the moment is really important.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Sagal and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to navigate speaking on the spot—whether you're managing meetings, leading teams, or handling high-stakes conversations—and offer a powerful reminder: the best spontaneous communicators don’t control the moment—they connect through it.Episode Reference Links:Peter D Sagal Ep.197 Prep or Perish: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (1 of 3)Ep.198 Pause and Effect: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (2 of 3)Ep.199 Blunder Pressure: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (3 of 3)Ep.203 No Script, No Problem: Final Secrets to Speaking Under Pressure (Bonus) Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:02) - Making Funny Possible (04:11) - Ditching the Script (07:26) - Pre-Show Rituals (09:41) - How to Introduce People Well (12:44) - Being Funny in the Moment (14:38) - Staying Present On Stage (16:58) - Gracious Communication (21:23) - The Final Three Questions (24:59) - 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.