Supercommunicators | 2. How to Communicate Without Words
whatshot 28 snips
Mar 1, 2025
Delve into the fascinating world of nonverbal communication, where gestures and facial expressions often speak louder than words. Explore how sitcom legends like The Big Bang Theory masterfully use these cues to enhance emotional depth. Gain insight into the impact of tone and body language on personal connections, revealing secrets that can transform everyday interactions. Hear expert opinions and personal stories that highlight the significance of subtle behaviors in fostering understanding and trust.
28:37
forum Ask episode
web_stories AI Snips
view_agenda Chapters
menu_book Books
auto_awesome Transcript
info_circle Episode notes
question_answer ANECDOTE
Doppler Effect Costume
Dave Goetsch, a TV writer, shared a story about his awkwardness.
He dressed as the Doppler effect for a costume party, which helped him land a job on The Big Bang Theory.
insights INSIGHT
Sitcom Challenge
Sitcoms rely on clear emotional expression for audience understanding.
The Big Bang Theory's humor comes from characters' conversational awkwardness, making this challenging.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Nonverbal Cues for Warmth
Use nonverbal cues to project a warm personality.
Certain cues can make you more likable and approachable.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
In this book, Charles Duhigg explores the secrets of 'supercommunicators' who excel at connecting with others. He delves into the three distinct types of conversations—practical, emotional, and social—and provides practical strategies and case studies to illustrate how to recognize and navigate these conversations effectively. The book includes examples from various contexts, such as jury deliberations, CIA recruitments, and workplace interactions, to demonstrate how communication can be improved. Duhigg emphasizes the importance of active listening, identifying complex emotions, and matching the type of conversation to enhance connection and understanding.
The Big Bang Theory
Jessica Radloff
The Big Bang Theory: The Definitive, Inside Story of the Epic Hit Series offers a comprehensive behind-the-scenes exploration of the show, from its initial failed pilot to its global success. The book includes interviews with key figures like Chuck Lorre, Bill Prady, and the entire main cast, providing insights into casting decisions, personal struggles, and the show's impact on its fans. It's a must-have for fans of the series.
Why is it that we can tell someone “I’m totally fine!” and they instantly know we’re not? Gestures, facial expressions, tone of voice, and other subtle nonverbal cues play a huge role in how we connect with one another.
In this episode, host Charles Duhigg explores how we communicate without words, including a deep dive into the visual and tonal cues embedded in one of the biggest sitcoms of all time, The Big Bang Theory.
He talks with Dr. Dustin York, a professor at Maryville University who studies nonverbal communication and worked in public relations for Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential campaign. He also sits down with Dave Goetsch, a co-executive producer and longtime writer for The Big Bang Theory, and journalist Jessica Radloff, who wrote an exhaustive book about the show.
This Slate miniseries dives into the art and science of meaningful conversations, inspired by
Supercommunicators was produced by Sophie Summergrad and Derek John, who also did the sound design. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer.
How To! 
