Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

242. Tech Tools: The Power of Showing, Not Telling

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Nov 13, 2025

In this engaging conversation, Joe Thomas, co-founder and CEO of Loom, shares insights on transforming communication in the workplace. He emphasizes the power of asynchronous video, advocating for the principle of 'show, don’t tell' to enhance clarity and connection. Joe outlines best practices for effective video messaging and highlights how authenticity fosters trust. He introduces the Do/Try/Consider framework to minimize misunderstandings, ultimately showcasing how video can revolutionize the way teams collaborate and communicate.

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INSIGHT

Async Video Scales Clearer Communication

Loom makes async video fast, shareable, and AI-enhanced to reduce misunderstandings.
Joe Thomas frames it as a way to save time and build stronger remote connections.

ANECDOTE

Founders Saw Consumer Video Missing At Work

The founders saw consumer video everywhere but not at work and built Loom to fill that gap.
Early workflows required recording, uploading, then sharing, which felt slow and clumsy.

ADVICE

Show Work, Be Concise, Remove Filler

Show, don't tell: include a screen component to demonstrate work rather than only talking.
Keep recordings concise and limit filler to maintain attention and clarity.

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Transform how you communicate with tools that make your message stick.

Sometimes the best way to explain an idea is to show it. That’s why Loom was built — to make communication more visual, authentic, and efficient. By combining video, screen sharing, and AI-powered editing, Loom helps teams connect and collaborate asynchronously, no matter where they are.

In this episode of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Tech Tools miniseries, host Matt Abrahams talks with Joe Thomas, co-founder and CEO of Loom, now part of Atlassian, about how asynchronous video can make communication clearer, faster, and more personal. They discuss why “show, don’t tell” is such an effective communication principle, how authenticity builds trust, and why recording yourself might be one of the best ways to improve how you communicate.

In addition to insight-packed discussions, this miniseries explores innovative tools that enhance the way we communicate and connect. Whether you want to make your presentations more memorable, craft stories that stick, or connect with your audience on a deeper level, these episodes will help you communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.

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Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(01:18) - Loom Elevator Pitch
(02:27) - Creation of Loom
(03:50) - Show, Don’t Tell: Using Video Effectively
(09:15) - Favorite Communicator
(10:19) - Communication Hack or Tool
(13:22) - Conclusion

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