

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

397 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 22min
174. Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful Moments
Priya Parker, author of The Art of Gathering and expert facilitator, shares her insights on transforming meetings and gatherings into meaningful experiences. She emphasizes that 90% of a gathering's success is determined before it begins, highlighting the need for intentionality in planning. Parker discusses strategies for fostering deeper connections, crafting engaging invitations, and leaving lasting impacts with effective closures. She also addresses navigating emotionally charged conversations and adapting to new dynamics in the post-pandemic world.

77 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 14min
173. Rethinks: Surviving the Holidays
The holiday season can be tricky for communication. Learn how to insert your voice into conversations without dominating them. Discover expert strategies for mastering small talk and turning it into a meaningful connection. Plus, get tips on navigating conflicts with clarity and empathy. These insights aim to reduce stress and enhance relationships, transforming challenges into opportunities for connection.

247 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 19min
Between the Lines: In Storytelling, Simplify to Amplify - Premium Sampler
Hilary Price, cartoonist and creator of the daily comic strip Rhymes with Orange, shares her insights on storytelling through humor and minimalism. She emphasizes starting at the action moment to engage the audience effectively. Price discusses the importance of surprise and leaving space for readers' interpretations, ensuring clarity in communication. With her unique approach to narrative crafting, she illustrates how simplicity can amplify impact, reminding us that the magic often lies in the unsaid elements of a story.

589 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 21min
172. Bring Mindfulness to Your Communication
Marshall Goldsmith, a world-renowned executive coach and author, discusses how mindfulness can revolutionize communication. He highlights the importance of reflection before responding, asking if our words enhance relationships. Goldsmith introduces his “feed forward” method for constructive feedback and shares daily reflective questions that guide us towards living an 'earned life'. He emphasizes that clarity and intentionality in communication lead to personal growth and effective leadership, ultimately fostering deeper connections.

312 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 23min
171. Advice from Nontraditional Storytellers Part 2
Dive into the art of storytelling with experts from magic, TikTok, and comedy. Discover how magicians create immersive experiences that engage the audience's emotions. Learn from a TikTok creator who emphasizes the power of authenticity in connecting with viewers. Enjoy humorous tales that illustrate the importance of positivity and relatability. Finally, explore techniques to win over skeptical audiences with personal stories, proving that true connection makes every performance memorable.

308 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 18min
170. Advice from Nontraditional Storytellers Part 1
Discover the storytelling secrets used by a tech litigator and a cartoonist. Learn how impactful stories begin with compelling hooks and clear premises. Explore the art of simplification that engages readers without over-explaining. Delve into the creative journey behind cartoon making, merging humor with meaningful narratives. Together, these experts reveal how intentional storytelling can transform complex ideas into relatable experiences.

251 snips
Nov 19, 2024 • 27min
169. Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count
In this engaging discussion, Alison Wood Brooks, a Harvard Business School professor specializing in conversation science, shares her insights on making small talk meaningful. She emphasizes that small talk isn’t just filler; it’s a vital step to deeper connections. Using her 'topic pyramid' approach, Brooks provides strategies to elevate mundane exchanges into memorable conversations, viewing them as treasure hunts for significant insights. She highlights the role of active listening and adapting conversational styles to achieve relational goals.

14 snips
Nov 14, 2024 • 3min
Launching: Think Fast Talk Smart Premium
Discover a new premium membership that aims to elevate your communication and career skills. Enjoy exclusive resources like early access to live events, AMAs, and Essential Quick Insight Playlists. Join a thriving global community to exchange insights and receive valuable feedback. A portion of your membership fee supports charities focused on improving communication worldwide. Sign up before November 21st for a sweet 25% discount and become part of the exclusive Founders Club!

1,179 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 26min
168. How Story Can Change Everything in Your Career
Matthew Dicks, a best-selling novelist and storytelling coach, shares his insights on the art of storytelling in business communication. He believes that narratives can transform ordinary messages into memorable experiences. Dicks emphasizes practical techniques for crafting compelling stories, from setting scenes to creating suspense. He also discusses the importance of reflection in uncovering everyday tales, noting that becoming a better storyteller can elevate one's career and make leaders more engaging.

154 snips
Nov 5, 2024 • 24min
167. Hollywood Lessons For Successful Communication
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Small, CEO of Amblin Partners and a guest lecturer at Stanford GSB, delves into the art of storytelling. He highlights how powerful narratives create emotional connections that are essential for effective communication in any context. Small shares insights on navigating conflicts through personal engagement and the significance of face-to-face interactions. He also emphasizes the role of storytelling during times of change, encouraging leaders to embrace vulnerability and foster connections for lasting impact.