Muscle for Life with Mike Matthews

Ep. #1167: Charles Duhigg on How to Be a “Supercommunicator”

Sep 18, 2024

Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Super Communicators, shares insights on enhancing communication skills. He discusses the three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social, and how to transition seamlessly between them. Duhigg highlights the power of storytelling in connecting with others and adapting communication styles to different contexts. He also explores the impact of technology on personal interactions, emphasizing the importance of meaningful questions for deeper connections.

40:41

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Charles Duhigg

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Quick takeaways

Super communicators excel by mastering the three conversation layers: practical, emotional, and social, fostering clearer connections.

Adapting communication styles to different contexts and using deep questions can enhance personal interactions and understanding.

Deep dives

Understanding Super Communicators

Super communicators possess unique skills that allow them to connect with others effectively. They prioritize their intent by thinking about what they want to communicate before speaking. This approach not only enhances their message but also facilitates deeper connections with their audience. For example, when engaging with a friend, super communicators practice active listening by remembering past conversations and genuinely focusing on their interlocutor's feelings.

Ask Deeply to Connect Meaningfully

01:38

Engagement Through Depth and Reflection

01:11

Empathy in Communication: Match the Mood

01:12

Intro

4min

Mastering Communication: The Art of Deep Connection

14min

The Power of Omega-3s and Storytelling in Communication

3min

The Art of Storytelling in Communication

15min

Fostering Deeper Connections Through Meaningful Questions

2min

Unlocking Your Ideal Training Program

2min

What's the secret to becoming a super communicator? How can you navigate the three layers of conversation? And how is technology changing the way we communicate?

In this episode, I sit down with Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of the bestselling book Super Communicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Charles explains the keys to effective communication and how we can all improve our ability to connect with others, at home or in the office.

In this interview, you'll learn . . .

The three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social How to effectively transition between emotional and practical conversations The role of storytelling in super communication Strategies for adapting your communication style to different situations and people How technology is reshaping our communication habits and what it means for personal connections

And more . . .

So, if you want to enhance your communication skills and build stronger connections in both your personal and professional life, click play and join the conversation.

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Timestamps:

(04:02) Why did you choose "Super Communicators" as the title of your book?

(07:30) What skills are essential for becoming a super communicator?

(08:34) Can you explain the three layers of conversation: practical, emotional, and social?

(10:56) What is an effective way to transition from an emotional conversation to a practical one?

(14:14) What advice do you have for better managing our emotions?

(20:47) How does storytelling fit into the framework of super communication?

(25:45) How is technology shaping the way people communicate?

(31:28) Are there specific types of conversations that should be avoided over email?

(35:36) Is it important to adapt to the mood of the conversation?

(36:48) What tips do you have for communicating with new people?