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The Mark Divine Show

509. The Everyday Miracle: Communication as a Physical Discipline (W/ Michael Hoeppner)

Mar 25, 2025
01:16:47

 

Believe it or not, communication is about far more than just the words one speaks. This week’s guest on The Unbeatable Mind, communication expert Michael Hoeppner, argues that much like dance or martial arts, communication is a full-body act. 

 

As a world-recognized expert on public speaking, Michael, along with Mark, sheds light on the Navy SEALS’ powerful spirit shout “Hoo Ya”, and how it embodies the physical essence of communication. Together they explore the intricacies of vocal variety, focusing on the significance of pace, pitch, pause, power, and placement, in the delivery of dynamic speech.  Michael digs into practical exercises one can use to overcome some common pitfalls in effective communication. He details how these exercises can transform one’s communication skills to ensure that their messages will be impactful and memorable. 

 

Lastly, he and  Mark touch upon the art of storytelling and the use of poetic devices in crafting narratives that stick with those that listen. Whether speaking in front of the public, or catching up with an old friend, Michael invites listeners to join him on the journey towards becoming a compelling communicator. 

 

Key Topics Include:

  • Communication as a Physical Act: Listen to Michael explain how communication is embodied physically—-it’s more than just the words you speak, more akin to yoga or dance. 

  • Eliminating “Um’s”: Explore the various exercises Michael presents to eliminate what he calls “filler words”, and choose what you say with precision. 

  • The “Five P’s” of Vocal Variety: Discover how the voice is much like an instrument in how it implements pace, pitch, pause, placement, and power. Mastering these “Five P’s” can radically transform how your message is received. 

  • Leveraging Poetic Devices: Learn how to harness techniques from the art of storytelling in order to enhance the power of your message.

 

Michael Hoeppner, author of the National Best Selling Book "Don't Say Um," is the founder and CEO of GK Training, a boutique communications training company serving Fortune 100 companies, universities, and individuals around the world. Using unique kinesthetic learning methods, GK teaches specific, actionable, and repeatable skills in speaking, writing, selling, and leading to everyone from high school students to U.S. presidential candidates.

Michael’s Links: 

Website: https://michaelchadhoeppner.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelchadhoeppner/    

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelchadhoeppner/

Don’t Say Umm: Buy Michael’s book HERE!

 

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