How to Become a Super Communicator With Charles Duhigg (MU Classic)

Apr 14, 2025

In this engaging discussion, Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of 'Supercommunicators,' reveals secrets to effective communication. He highlights the power of deep questions and mindful listening to create meaningful connections. Duhigg shares techniques like 'looping for understanding' to enhance dialogue, particularly in parenting. The conversation explores the importance of feedback in business and how digital mediums change our interactions, all emphasizing that strong communication is essential for personal and professional success.

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INSIGHT

Three Types of Conversations

There are three types of conversations: practical, emotional, and social.
Successful communication requires matching the type of conversation to connect effectively.

ADVICE

Ask Help, Hear, or Hug

Ask someone if they want help, to be heard, or a hug to identify the conversation type.
This clarifies what support they need and helps you match the right conversation style.

ADVICE

Looping for Understanding

Use the technique of looping for understanding: ask a deep question, repeat what was said, and confirm understanding.
This proves you are listening and makes the other person more likely to listen to you.

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The Power of Habit

Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business

Charles Duhigg

In this book, Charles Duhigg explores the science of habit formation and change. He explains the 'habit loop' consisting of a cue, a routine, and a reward, and how understanding this loop can help in changing bad habits or forming good ones. The book includes numerous examples from various fields, such as how Procter & Gamble successfully marketed Febreze, how Alcoa transformed its business by focusing on safety, and how individuals like Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps and civil-rights hero Martin Luther King, Jr. benefited from specific habits. Duhigg argues that by harnessing this science, individuals and organizations can transform their lives and businesses[2][4][5].

Supercommunicators

How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection

Charles Duhigg

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 corner office

Indispensable and Unexpected Lessons from CEOs on How to Lead and Succeed

Adam Bryant

In 'The Corner Office,' Adam Bryant compiles insights from interviews with more than seventy CEOs, including Steve Ballmer (Microsoft), Carol Bartz (Yahoo), Jeffrey Katzenberg (DreamWorks), and Alan Mulally (Ford). The book reveals the keys to success in the business world, including the five essential personality traits valued by high-performing executives. It demystifies the art of leadership and provides different perspectives on how to be a more effective leader and employee.

How to Become a Super Communicator With Charles Duhigg (MU Classic)

Three Types of Conversations

Ask Help, Hear, or Hug

Looping for Understanding

What we discuss with Charles:

Links and resources from this episode:

Thank you, Charles!