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Better Conversations at Work and Home: Jackie Stavros & Cheri Torres

Better Conversations from Better Questions

Be Curious to Create Positive Conversations

Episode 303 (Jackie is based in Michigan. Cheri is based in North Carolina)

In this conversation with Jackie Stavors & Cheri Torres we explore:

• the conversations we have with ourselves before we speak to others
• the difference between appreciative and depreciative thinking
• how pausing and breathing can interrupt defensive reactions
• why curiosity changes the direction of difficult conversations
• how generative questions broaden thinking
• making invisible assumptions visible
• creating shared understanding through inquiry
• inspiring possibilities with thoughtful questions
• helping leaders engage people instead of commanding them
• shifting meetings from blame to exploration
• building commitment by involving people in creation
• using positive framing to guide stronger outcomes
• practical questions that diffuse tension and invite insight

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About our guests:

They are coauthers of the book, "Conversations Work Having: Using Appreciative Inquiry to Fuel Productive and Meaningful Engagement".

Learn more about Conversations Work Having and the free resources here.

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Key Lessons from this conversation with Jackie Stavros & Cheri Torres:

• conversations shape outcomes, whether those conversations are with others or with ourselves
• before speaking, ask: what is my intended message?
• recognize whether you are above the line (appreciative) or below the line (depreciative)
• pausing and breathing interrupts defensive reactions and creates room for better thinking
• curiosity is stronger than criticism when facing conflict or disagreement
• self-talk improves when statements are replaced with thoughtful questions
• generative questions can change how people think and respond
• strong questions make the invisible visible
• shared understanding grows when people clarify intentions and desired outcomes
• leaders build stronger commitment when they ask more questions and give fewer commands
• people commit more deeply to what they help create
• positive framing focuses attention on what we want to build, not only what we want to fix
• any person in a meeting, regardless of role, can redirect conversation with a thoughtful question
• asking “what do you know that I don’t know?” opens learning and reduces defensiveness
• conversations worth having are built through awareness, inquiry, and intention

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How to Reduce Stress Quickly with EFT: Brad Yates

Emotional Freedom Techniques Explained

How Tapping Helps You Overcome Fear

Episode 302 (Brad is based in California)

In this conversation with Brad Yates we explore:

• how stress shapes behavior, decisions, and success
• why people unknowingly avoid opportunities
• how emotional freedom techniques (EFT) work
• the connection between stress and self-sabotage
• how fear of judgment blocks communication
• why thinking alone cannot resolve stress
• how tapping calms the nervous system
• the role of the amygdala and stress response
• how past experiences influence present behavior
• how simple physical actions influence emotional states
• why repetition and rhythm help regulate stress
• how daily stress management improves performance

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About our guest, Brad Yates:

Brad Yates is known internationally for his creative and often humorous use of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).

There are over 1,000 videos on his YouTube, that have been viewed over 36 million times. 

Invited by Jack Canfield to speak at his Breakthrough to Success event. Featured speaker on all 14 Tapping World Summits  Graduate of Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Clown College. 

Visit his website TappWithBrad.com

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• stress influences both physical and emotional challenges and can limit behavior and success
• people are often controlled by subtle emotions without realizing it
• emotional freedom techniques (EFT) provide a way to reduce stress and regain control
• tapping stimulates points on the body linked to calming the stress response
• self-sabotage is a protective response driven by perceived threats
• fear of judgment often prevents people from sharing their intended message
• reducing stress helps restore access to rational and creative thinking
• tapping combines physical action with mindset and language techniques
• emotional blocks often stem from past experiences that remain unresolved
• regular practice of stress reduction improves long-term emotional control
• simple, repeatable patterns help calm the nervous system quickly
• daily “energy hygiene” prevents stress from building up

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Speak Like The Leader You Claim to Be: Ty Hoesgan

Leadership Speaking for Success

How to Speak Like the Leader you Claim to Be

Episode 301 (Ty is based in Toronto)

In this conversation with Ty Hosegan we explore:

• how communication skills influence hiring, promotion, and career growth
• why technical expertise alone does not lead to leadership roles
• how lack of structure weakens clarity in meetings and conversations
• how the PRP framework helps organise ideas and improve understanding
• why speaking too quickly reduces credibility
• how pausing strengthens delivery and confidence
• why people avoid silence when speaking
• how leaders can develop communication skills within their teams
• how storytelling can make messages more memorable
• why communication is a learnable skill regardless of personality

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About our guest, Ty Hoesgan:

Ty Hoesgen grew up as a shy, awkward farm kid near a town of 800 people. He's the author of "Elite Communication Skills".

You can take the free course, "Speak like a Confident Leader in 7 Days:

at https://howtospeakbetter.com/

Follow at https://www.instagram.com/tyhoesgen/

Connect at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyhoesgen/

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Key Lessons from this Conversation with Ty Hoesgan

• communication skills determine career advancement more than technical expertise
• clear, structured communication is often missing in professional settings
• many people speak without knowing their main point
• the PRP framework (point, reason, point) improves clarity and retention
• adding examples (PREP) strengthens understanding and engagement
• speaking too quickly reduces credibility and comprehension
• pausing improves clarity, confidence, and message delivery
• lack of structure leads to confusion and off-track conversations
• consistent feedback and praise improve team communication skills
• communication is a learnable skill, not a natural talent

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How to Deliver Engaging Virtual Presentations: Bernie DeSantis

Virtual Speaking Skills: Master Engagement and Timing

How to Run High-Impact Virtual Events That Aren't Boring

Episode 300

(Bernie is based in Detroit)

In this conversation with Bernie DeSantis we explore:

• the shift from in-person to virtual presentation delivery
• why engagement—not content—is the biggest challenge in virtual settings
• how small delivery details determine audience attention
• the role of a virtual producer in supporting presenters
• how pattern interrupts help maintain audience focus
• why virtual audiences behave differently than live audiences
• how to manage time effectively in virtual presentations
• the importance of preparation and contingency planning
• the limitations of technology and over-reliance on tools
• the growing role of virtual delivery in business communication

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About our guest, Bernie DeSantis:

Bernie is the owner of Insignia Training Partners, a firm that helps organizations and experts design and deliver high-impact virtual egents and learning experiences. He has produced over 6,000 virtual events.

You can book a no-charge strategy session for your next virtual event with Bernie:

Learn more about Insignia Trainining Partners.

Attend the workshop, The Human Edge: Command the Room

Bernie and George will lead you through this 90-minute workshop to give you an unbeatable advantage when you present online.

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Key Lessons from this conversation with Bernie DeSantas:

• engagement is the defining factor in virtual presentations, not content
• small details in delivery matter more than subject expertise
• speakers often fail by trying to replicate in-person presentations online
• virtual delivery requires intentional use of tools and techniques to maintain attention
• pattern interrupts are essential to regain and maintain audience focus
• presenters must adapt to unknown audience environments and technology conditions
• time discipline is critical—virtual audiences expect meetings to start and end on time
• technology supports the experience but cannot replace strong delivery skills
• preparation must include backup plans for when technology fails
• authentic human delivery remains more important than advanced tools or AI

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How to Get Booked on Podcasts & Build Your Brand: Noemi Beres

Podcast Guest Mistakes That Hurt Your Crediblity

Podcast Guesting Tips: Preparation, Presence & Promotion

Episode 299 (Noemi is based in Cyprus)

In this conversation with Noemi Beres we explore:

• why podcast guesting builds authority and long-term visibility
• how evergreen content continues to work for you over time
• how to identify and target the right podcast audience
• why podcast interviews are about the host and audience—not the guest
• how relationships formed through podcasts lead to business opportunities
• how to repurpose podcast interviews into ongoing content
• why preparation and clarity outperform improvisation
• how to craft and condense your story for podcast interviews
• how authenticity and presence influence audience perception
• why consistency and persistence are essential for results
• how smaller podcasts provide practice and niche access
• how podcast guesting differs from keynote speaking

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About our guest Noemi Beres:

Noemi is a podcast guesting expert and entrepreneur who rebuilt her business to six figures after losing it during the pandemic.

She's co-founder of sPodcast Connections, a podcast booking agency that helps thought leaders get booked on the right podcasts.

https://www.podcastconnections.co/

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Key Lessons from this Conversation with Noemi Beres:

• podcast guesting builds brand visibility and authority over time
• podcast appearances create long-term SEO and evergreen content value
• anyone can find a podcast niche with proper research
• successful guesting starts with understanding your ideal audience
• podcast interviews are about serving the host and audience, not self-promotion
• building relationships with podcast hosts leads to long-term opportunities
• repurposing podcast content multiplies marketing reach
• preparation is essential—guests should not “wing it”
• strong guest storytelling requires clarity and brevity
• authenticity and presence create stronger audience connection
• consistency and persistence drive long-term results in podcast guesting
• smaller podcasts provide valuable practice and targeted audiences

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Negotiation Strategies that Work: Fotini Iconomopoulos

How Emotions Shape Every Business Negotiation

The Power of Questions in Negotiation Conversations

Episode 298 (Fotini is based in Toronto)

In this conversation with Fotini Iconomopolous we explore:

• why the concept of “winning” in negotiation can damage outcomes
• how conflict is a natural and necessary part of negotiation
• why emotions—not information—drive most decisions
• how perception differs from intention in communication
• the importance of considering how others feel during negotiation
• the balance between advocating for yourself and serving others
• how preparation shapes confidence and effectiveness
• why adapting your approach to the individual matters
• how asking questions gives you control of the conversation
• how to respond when budget objections arise
• the role of silence and restraint in high-stakes conversations
• how to use language to create alignment and collaboration
• why value creation is more effective than price reduction
• how negotiation styles shift across contexts and relationships

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About our guest, Fotini Iconomopolous:

She is author of the book on negotiation "Say Less, Get More" which is available in most book stores.

Take the quizz for a free assessment of your natural negotiation style.

https://fotiniicon.com/quiz/

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Key Lessons from this conversation with Fotini:

• the word “win” creates a losing dynamic in negotiation
• negotiation is a form of conflict, but conflict is not inherently negative
• misalignment in negotiation is driven more by emotion than information
• removing emotion from negotiation is impossible and counterproductive
• how you make people feel determines whether they accept your proposal
• effective negotiation requires balancing three key questions
• preparation is essential and should never be replaced by “winging it”
• asking questions early gives you control of the negotiation
• open-ended questions prevent immediate rejection and invite collaboration
• objections should trigger exploration, not discounting
• negotiation requires adapting to the individual, not just the situation
• silence is a strategic advantage in negotiation
• talking too much weakens your position and reveals vulnerability
• value can be created by reframing, not just reducing price
• trading value creates better outcomes than making concessions

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Why Leaders Must Listen with Intent to Understand: Robert M. Mixon

Adaptive Leadership Starts with Communication Discipline

Three Communication Habits for Every Leader to Practice

Episode 297 (Robert is based in Florida)

In this conversation with Robert Mixon we explore:

• the shift from a culture of compliance to a culture of commitment

• why communication must become a two-way process

• how lack of clarity leads to repeated mistakes and wasted effort

• the importance of confirming understanding in leadership communication

• how fear prevents people from asking questions

• why vulnerability strengthens leadership credibility

• the role of discipline and structure in effective communication

• how adaptive leadership is built on consistent principles

• the dangers of polarization in modern communication

• simple communication habits that improve respect and understanding

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About our guest, Robert M. Mixon:

Robert served for 33 years in the United States Army and led Soldiers at every level from Platoon to Division.

He worked 7 years in executive leadership in profit and not-for-profit companies before launching his own leadership coman, Level Five Associates, 10 years ago.

He's the author of "The Power of Being All In" and "We're All In: The Journey to a Wold=Class Culture".

Visit his website at https://www.levelfiveassociates.com

Subscribe to his tips at https://robertmixon.substack.com

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Key Lessons from this conversation with Robert:

• communication must be deliberate and practiced daily

• leaders must listen with the intent to understand rather than reply

• clarity in communication requires discipline and structure

• confirmation of understanding prevents costly mistakes

• culture of commitment outperforms culture of compliance

• fear prevents people from asking questions and seeking clarity

• vulnerability strengthens leadership authenticity

• adaptive leadership is built on consistent principles and behaviors

• polarization weakens communication and collaboration

• simple habits like pausing before responding improve communication quality

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Why Executives Get Fired for Communication Failures: Michael de Lisser

The Four Communication Skills Every Leader Must Master

The Communication Skills That Separate Leaders from Managers

Episode 296 (Michael is based in Las Vegas)

In this conversation we explore:

• why many executives fail because of communication breakdowns rather than lack of expertise

• how leaders get promoted based on technical skills but must later rely on communication ability

• what happens when organizations promote high performers without leadership training

• how leaders shift from doing the work to getting results through others

• the four communication skills leaders use most often: presentations, coaching conversations, meetings, and business writing

• why presentation skills help leaders communicate vision and direction

• how one-on-one coaching conversations strengthen individual performance

• the importance of managing meetings to encourage participation and discussion

• how written communication becomes critical during change or important announcements

• why maintaining humor and perspective helps leaders navigate pressure situations

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About our guest, Michael de Lisser:

Michael's has been focussed on leadership development and executive coching. He is the author of Leadership Accelerators: High Impact Communication Skills that Strenghten Rrelationships And Drive Results.

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Key Lessons from this conversation with Michael:

• many executives lose their roles because of weaknesses in communication skills rather than technical expertise

• technical ability often leads to promotion, but leadership success requires stronger communication skills

• organizations frequently promote high performers without providing leadership communication development

• leaders succeed by learning how to get results through others rather than relying on personal expertise

• senior leaders communicate through four primary channels: presentations, one-on-one coaching, meetings, and business writing

• presentation skills allow leaders to convey vision and direction to groups

• one-on-one coaching helps leaders bring out the best in individuals during critical moments

• meeting management creates an environment where team members contribute ideas and discuss differences openly

• business writing becomes especially important during change and important organizational moments

• humor and perspective can help leaders handle pressure situations more effectively

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Niche Marketing to Grow Your Business: Wes Towers

Clear Messaging in a Noisy Marketplace

From Threat to Oppoutunity: Turn AI Disruption into Business Growth

Episode 295 (Wes is based in Australia)

In this conversation with Wes Towers, we explore:

• how the rise of AI forced a digital agency founder to rethink his business strategy

• why niching into trades and construction improved messaging and positioning

• how specialization makes marketing communication clearer and more compelling

• the role of podcasts in building industry knowledge and relationships

• why websites today help attract employees as well as customers

• how businesses can differentiate themselves instead of competing on price

• the role of case studies and real stories in building online credibility

• how AI can streamline processes while reinforcing human messaging

• how search behaviour is changing as people ask AI tools for recommendations

• why human connection and communication are becoming more valuable in an automated world

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About our guest, Wes Towers:

Wes is founder of Uplift 360, a digital marketing agency in Australia tht specilizes in the trades and construction industry.

https://uplift360.com.au/

Wes is host of the podcast, Build, Trusted, Chosen

https://builttrustedchosen.buzzsprout.com/

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Key Lessons from this Conversation with Wes Towers:

• clarity in messaging becomes even more important as AI increases the volume of online content

• niching your market makes communication clearer and helps businesses stand out

• the best future clients often resemble your best current clients

• specialization allows you to understand the language, needs, and challenges of a specific industry

• industry events and conferences become more valuable when you serve a narrow niche

• hosting a podcast can deepen industry knowledge and strengthen relationships

• websites today must communicate values and culture to attract both customers and employees

• businesses must highlight distinctions beyond price to avoid competing only on cost

• AI works best as a tool that supports human messaging rather than replacing it

• original stories and case studies help businesses appear in search results and AI recommendations

• human connection and communication become more valuable as automation increases

• the message should guide the design of a website, including text, visuals, and video

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Right Speaker, Right Audience, Right Time: Martin Perelmuter

Head & Heart: The Formula for Audience Connection

Motivation vs. Information: What Makes a Great Speaker?

Episode 294 (Martin is based in Toronto)

In this conversation with Martin Peremuter we explore:

• how evergreen topics like leadership and trust continue to anchor conferences

• why AI dominates current conference agendas

• what an audience can realistically apply from a one-hour keynote

• the balance between information and motivation

• why sleeping audiences don’t learn

• how cultural differences affect speaking styles and expectations

• the strategic value of the pre-event call

• why the gig starts before stepping on stage

• how integrity off stage affects booking success

• how to connect with both analytical and emotional audience members

• why audience interaction must be earned

• how conference organizers should define purpose and desired behavior change

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About our guest, Martin Permuter:

Martin is the president and co-founder of Speaker's Spotlight, a speaker booking agency. 

He has personally booked over 9,000 speaking engagements in the past 30 years. He served on the board of governors of the International Association of Speakers Bureaus, (IASB) for the past three years and was president last year. IASB's membership is made up of speakers' bureaus, lecture agencies, and speaker management companies from around the world. 

Learn more about Martin and Speaker's Spotlight at https://www.speakers.ca/

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Key lessons from this conversation with Martin Perelmuter:

• leadership, communication, trust, and teamwork remain evergreen topics

• AI is currently in demand, while trends like social media rise and fade

• an audience realistically applies one or two ideas from an hour keynote

• speakers must balance valuable content with engagement

• sleeping audiences don’t learn

• cultural expectations influence how speakers are received

• the pre-event call is critical to customizing the message

• the gig starts before the speaker steps on stage

• speakers are judged on integrity both on and off stage

• the best speakers connect with both head and heart

• audience trust must be earned before asking for interaction

• conference organizers must start with why and define the desired behavior change

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