Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart
One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication.
Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges.
Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships.
Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.
Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges.
Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships.
Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.
Episodes
Mentioned books
671 snips
May 15, 2025 • 16min
203. No Script, No Problem: Final Secrets to Speaking Under Pressure (Bonus)
Learn how to master spontaneous communication with expert tips from diverse professionals like an FBI negotiator and sports broadcaster. Discover a structured framework to organize your thoughts on the fly, using the three-question approach: What, So What, Now What? Enhance your confidence and storytelling skills through visualization and self-reflection. This insightful discussion emphasizes the value of unique insights and self-care to perform effectively under pressure. Equip yourself to think fast and speak smart in any situation!
547 snips
May 13, 2025 • 24min
202. Own Your Brand: How to Communicate with Presence and Impact
Lorraine Lee, a teacher, content creator, and author of 'Unforgettable Presence,' dives into the art of personal branding and communication. She emphasizes that you can shape your reputation rather than leave it to others. Using her EPIC framework, she discusses the importance of Experiences, Personality, Identity, and Community in building an impactful presence. Lorraine shares strategies for engaging virtual communication, effective introductions, and leveraging introverted strengths, making it clear that mastering your brand can significantly boost your career.
124 snips
May 6, 2025 • 28min
201. Ballpark to the Boardroom: How Alex Rodriguez Hits a Communication Home Run
In this engaging conversation, Alex Rodriguez, Chair and CEO of A-Rod Corp and former MLB All-Star, shares his insights on success and resilience. He emphasizes that striking out is a part of life, whether in sports or business. Alex discusses the importance of maintaining a 'slow heartbeat' in high-pressure situations and the value of 'intentional listening.' His transformative approach to communication focuses on authenticity and viewing it as 'an unselfish act.' Discover how these strategies can help turn failures into valuable learning experiences.
755 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 44min
200. Four Keys for Focused Communication: Live Lessons from Our 200 Episodes
In this celebratory podcast, communicative strategies take center stage, focusing on concision, relevance, accessibility, and precision. Engaging examples, like a humorous snail analogy, illustrate the value of clarity. Listeners learn how to craft impactful elevator pitches using storytelling techniques. The importance of vocabulary and presenting data effectively is discussed, along with managing speaking anxiety for increased confidence. Techniques for steering conversations back on topic are shared, providing tools for productive communication.
283 snips
Apr 22, 2025 • 25min
199. Blunder Pressure: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (3 of 3)
Explore mastering spontaneous communication and learn how to thrive under pressure. Discover strategies for embracing a 'next play' mindset, which helps in overcoming mistakes with confidence. Humor is highlighted as a powerful tool for turning errors into engaging moments. Professionals share insights on maintaining composure in high-stress situations and practical exercises enhance your skills. This informative series transforms how you think and speak on your feet, ensuring you flow, not freeze, when put on the spot.
489 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 27min
198. Pause and Effect: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (2 of 3)
Discover how to thrive in spontaneous communication with tips from experts like sports commentators and FBI negotiators. Learn to stay present, read the room, and use techniques like mirroring and active listening to connect with your audience. The importance of adaptability in high-pressure situations is explored, along with the nuances of effective pauses and body language. Practical exercises are provided to help turn challenges into growth opportunities, ensuring you speak confidently and clearly, no matter the circumstances.
737 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 27min
197. Prep or Perish: Mastering In-the-Moment Communication (1 of 3)
Dive into the world of spontaneous communication, where preparation meets performance. Discover techniques to transform nerves into energy and master the art of staying present. Insights from an NFL referee and an FBI hostage negotiator reveal how to combat anxiety and overthinking. Learn to connect with your audience seamlessly, even when put on the spot. Practical exercises await to help sharpen your in-the-moment speaking skills, turning potential mishaps into confident moments.
307 snips
Apr 8, 2025 • 24min
196. Ditch the Dictionary: Communicate Confidently Through Connection
Lindsay McMahon, CEO and founder of All Ears English, shares her insights into effective communication for non-native speakers. She emphasizes that real communication is about connection, not perfection. Practical strategies like active listening and cultural awareness are discussed, along with overcoming nervousness to build confidence. The conversation dives into the significance of concise communication and embracing feedback for self-improvement. McMahon advocates for viewing communication from diverse angles, enhancing understanding and engagement.
79 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 16min
195. Q&A on Conflict, Confidence, and Connection: Me2We 2025 Part 2
Stanford experts tackle live questions on leadership and authenticity, providing actionable insights for real-world challenges. They emphasize the importance of receptive dialogue in conflict situations, urging listeners to approach conversations with curiosity. The discussion also highlights the shift from fear-based leadership to fostering psychological safety and genuine connections within teams. Additionally, they explore the critical role of reputation and first impressions in professional interactions, showcasing strategies for balancing immediate success with meaningful relationships.
135 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 35min
194. Live Lessons in Levity and Leadership: Me2We 2025 Part 1
Join Naomi Bagdonas, a Stanford Graduate School of Business lecturer specializing in humor in leadership, as she shares invaluable insights on effective communication. She discusses how authenticity fosters trust and the importance of discomfort for personal growth. The conversation delves into the innovative role of AI in education, enhancing human interaction, and the necessity of evolving leadership dynamics that prioritize employee well-being. Naomi offers engaging tips on using humor as a powerful tool in leadership, making this a must-listen for aspiring leaders.
