Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

194. Live Lessons in Levity and Leadership: Me2We 2025 Part 1

Apr 1, 2025

Join Naomi Bagdonas, a Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer specializing in humor in leadership, as she shares invaluable insights on effective communication. She discusses how authenticity fosters trust and the importance of discomfort for personal growth. The conversation delves into the innovative role of AI in education, enhancing human interaction, and the necessity of evolving leadership dynamics that prioritize employee well-being. Naomi offers engaging tips on using humor as a powerful tool in leadership, making this a must-listen for aspiring leaders.

32:17

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Naomi Bagdonas

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Quick takeaways

Effective leadership is rooted in authentic communication that resonates with people's values and establishes trust among team members.

Embracing mental discomfort is vital for growth, as it fosters resilience and demonstrates that failures are essential stepping stones to success.

Deep dives

The Importance of Reputation Management

Effective reputation management hinges on the alignment between self-perception and how others perceive you. It is crucial to understand the audience's perspective and adjust communication accordingly to mitigate misunderstandings. Strategies include actively listening, soliciting feedback, and exceeding expectations to enhance both personal and collective reputations. By taking proactive steps in managing how you are seen by others, you can significantly influence your professional and personal opportunities.

Intro

3min

Navigating Reputation and Growth

11min

AI in Education: Enhancing Human Interaction

8min

Reforming Broken Hierarchies: A Framework for Change

2min

Evolving Leadership Dynamics

6min

Enhancing Executive Presence Through Effective Communication

3min

Effective leadership begins with the way you communicate.

Leading with impact isn’t about speaking louder—it’s about communicating in ways that resonate with what people already value. In Part 1 of this special two-part series from the Stanford LEAD Me2We Conference, Matt Abrahams brings together four expert GSB faculty—Allison Kluger, Nir Halevy, Christian Wheeler, and Naomi Bagdonas—to explore how to lead and communicate with intention. They share how authenticity builds trust, why discomfort is essential for growth, how to design space for serendipity, and the role AI can play in expanding—not replacing—human potential. From managing reputation to staying present in high-pressure moments, this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart offers insights to help leaders connect more effectively, show up with purpose, and inspire meaningful action.

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Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(03:33) - Managing Reputation and Authentic Communication
(05:35) - Leadership Pluralism and Team Culture
(07:35) - Discomfort, Growth, and Distraction
(11:59) - Guiding Principles and the Serendipity Fund
(14:34) - Using AI in Teaching and Research
(21:55) - Fixing Hierarchies with CPR
(23:50) - Authenticity, Humor Styles, and Human Flourishing
(26:39) - Executive Presence and Owning the Room
(29:28) - Writing Better Titles and Facilitating Interactions
(31:21) - Conclusion

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