Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda cover image

Clear+Vivid with Alan Alda

Alison Wood Brooks: Talking About Talk

Mar 25, 2025
Alison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor and author of "Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves," dives into the complexities of communication. She introduces the powerful acronym TALK, highlighting the significance of Topic, Questions, Levity, and Kindness in fostering meaningful connections. The conversation covers practical strategies for engaging children in dialogue, reframing anxiety into excitement, and the art of concluding conversations with empathy. Brooks shares anecdotes that illuminate the intricate dance of effective communication.
42:56

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The TALK acronym—Topic, Asking questions, Levity, and Kindness—provides a structured approach to enhance effective communication in conversations.
  • Understanding emotional dynamics and practicing empathy are crucial for navigating difficult discussions, especially when addressing differing political views.

Deep dives

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