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The podcast about Effective Communication in Business
Better communication skills will advance your career and business. Are you ready to enhance your understanding and results from better communication? Listen and learn how to deliver Your Intended Message.
Are you willing to cross-examine communication from various perspectives? Would you like to deliver your intended message more effectively?
Listen to Your Intended Message to gain a powerful advantage in your ability to convey your message to your audience, team, clients or marketplace.
Learn from the mistakes and success of communication experts from around the world from different scenarios.
The better communicator has the competitive advantage.
Imagine what that means to you when you improve the success of your next conversation, presentation or message.
Your Host - George Torok
https://yourintendedmessage.com/
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
The Power of Empathy in Leadership Communication
Communicating Complex Ideas so Everyone Understands
Episode 307 (Hasan is based in Munich, Germany) Repeat of the popular episode 146
In this conversation with Hasan Ibne Akram we explore:
- why technical experts often struggle to communicate with executives and investors
- the concept of the T-shaped engineer and why it is rare
- how storytelling simplifies complex technical ideas
- using analogies to help audiences quickly understand unfamiliar concepts
- why precision matters in engineering communication
- adapting communication style based on the listener’s mindset
- how empathy improves leadership and communication effectiveness
- the difference between sympathy and tactical empathy
- learning to understand emotions without agreeing with the viewpoint
- why asking precise questions produces better answers
- how executives can become more approachable to employees
- the role of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership
- why curiosity helps people connect across differences
- how perspective shapes workplace relationships
- the importance of mission alignment inside organizations
- the difference between assigning tasks and leading people
- how meditation and alpha brain training support high performance
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About our guest, Dr. Hasan Akram:
Dr. Hasan is a serial entrepreneur. He is a computer scientist working in the domain of Autonomous Vehicle Safety. He is passionate about high performance.
He is the author of The Million Dollar Monk, which examines high performance.
Train your brain to overcome brain burn-out and leverage more of your brain's power with the use of science-based training programs.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasan-ibne-akram-phd-75332b4/
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Key Lessons from this conversation with Hasan Akram:
- technical experts often lose their audience by explaining too much detail instead of focusing on meaning and relevance
- T-shaped professionals combine deep expertise with the ability to communicate at a high level
- storytelling helps people understand complex ideas faster than technical jargon
- analogies bridge the gap between technical language and everyday understanding
- precision matters in communication, especially for engineers and scientists
- empathy requires understanding another person’s perspective without necessarily agreeing with them
- tactical empathy focuses on understanding emotions during difficult conversations
- asking better questions leads to better answers and stronger communication
- leaders need to adjust their communication level depending on the audience
- authenticity increases trust and strengthens communication effectiveness
- vulnerability can help leaders appear more human and approachable
- employees often filter communication through fear and uncertainty about their role or security
- people respond differently when they genuinely feel understood
- curiosity about others helps reduce barriers and improve communication
- changing your perspective can transform difficult workplace relationships
- leaders should communicate mission and vision, not simply assign tasks
- aligning organizational goals with personal purpose strengthens engagement
- meditation and brain training can improve focus and performance by reducing mental noise
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Thursday May 21, 2026
Thursday May 21, 2026
Career Success Through Networking, Connecting and Giving
Why Giving First Creates Better Professional Relationships
Episode 306 (Larry is based in Chicago) This is a repeat of the poplular episode 131.
In this conversation with Larry Kaufman, we explore:
- networking beyond exchanging business cards
- how networking, connecting and giving work together
- the difference between inner-circle and outer-circle relationships
- why giving can include time, knowledge and expertise
- how philanthropy expands both purpose and relationships
- why professionals need to build relationships before they need help
- recognizing the warning signs of takers
- why curiosity builds stronger relationships than self-promotion
- how professionals in transition can reshape networking conversations
- the role of becoming an indispensable resource
- setting personal NCG goals
- creating stronger relationships through intentional giving
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About our Guest, Larry Kaufman:
Larry is the author of the best-selling book, The NCG Factor - a Formula for Building Life-Changing Relationships from College to Retirement.
He is a connector, giver and rainmaker who lives his life to help others.
Learn more about Larry at the website www.Kaufman-Larry.com
Follow or connect on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrykaufmanlinkedinspeaker/
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Key Lessons from this conversation with Larry Kaufman:
- networking is more than exchanging business cards; it begins with authentic relationships
- connecting people can create value even when you are not the expert
- giving may involve time, expertise, introductions, mentoring, or philanthropy
- an inner circle consists of people you trust and can depend upon
- strong relationships provide support beyond career needs
- build relationships before you need them
- networking continues throughout a career and beyond retirement
- helping others often creates unexpected opportunities
- philanthropy can expand relationships while serving a larger purpose
- not every connection should become part of your inner circle
- takers often reveal themselves by focusing only on their own needs
- people in career transition benefit from leading with curiosity instead of urgency
- asking questions creates stronger conversations than presenting a resume
- becoming indispensable requires helping beyond products and services
- setting an NCG goal creates a habit of helping others
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Thursday May 14, 2026
Thursday May 14, 2026
Why Poor Writing Skills Cost Companies Billions
Critical Thinking & Communication are Inseparable
Episode 305 (Jim is based in Long Island New York) This is a repeat of the popular episode 233.
In this coversation with Jim Rowe we explore:
- why writing is one of the strongest tools for improving critical thinking
- how weak communication skills reduce workplace productivity
- why many graduates are unprepared for executive communication demands
- the relationship between writing, thinking and leadership
- how structured communication improves decision making
- why one-page communication creates greater clarity
- the importance of defining audience and purpose before communicating
- how editing sharpens ideas and improves persuasion
- why reading communication aloud improves tone and delivery
- how executives waste time fixing unclear communication from staff
- why communication should be treated as a professional craft
- the value of teaching critical thinking alongside writing skills
- how communication frameworks improve meetings and presentations
- why communication skills remain essential despite advances in technology
- how organizations can create more disciplined communication habits
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About our guest Jim Rowe:
Jim is author of the two-book series, "Get Your Ducks in a Rowe". It's a fable that helps executives address the skills gap or their new employees.
https://www.getyourducksinarowe.com/
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Key Lessons from this conversation with Jim Rowe:
- writing is an active thinking process, not simply a communication task
- many graduates overestimate their communication and writing abilities
- corporations lose productivity when leaders must rewrite unclear communication
- structured thinking improves communication clarity
- executives value employees who can solve problems and communicate clearly
- identifying the audience and desired action is the starting point of effective communication
- concise one-page communication forces sharper thinking
- editing is a critical part of strong communication
- reading writing aloud helps improve tone, clarity and flow
- communication and critical thinking are inseparably connected
- organizations benefit when meetings and communication follow a clear structure
- communication skills improve through continual practice and refinement
- writing training should include critical thinking, not only grammar and syntax
- clear communication saves organizations time and money
- effective communication requires awareness of audience, purpose and context
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Thursday May 07, 2026
Thursday May 07, 2026
Your Inner Theme, Core Message & Brand Moniker
Be Authentic When You Find Your Innner Message
Episode 304 (This is a repeat of the popular episode #97. Fredrik is based in Sweden and now lives on his Ideas Island. It's no longer available for your free vacation.)
In this conversation with Fredrik Haren we explore:
- how speakers discover the deeper meaning behind their message
- why an inner theme creates stronger resonance with an audience
- the difference between a topic, a core message, and a brand moniker
- why explorers often connect more powerfully than experts
- how authenticity shapes audience trust
- why speeches fail when speakers begin too far ahead of their audience
- a four-step rhetorical framework for persuasive speaking
- why people rally behind messages more than personalities
- how leaders gain influence by knowing who they are
- the role of presence and being fully in the moment when speaking
- why clearly communicated ideas are the ideas most likely to become rea
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About Our Guest Fredrik Haren"
Fredrik is known as The Creativity Explorer. He has interviewed thousands of people in 70 countries on six continents about their creative process.
His book, The Idea Book, was included in "The 100 Best Business Books of All Time".
Fredrik helps people find their Inner Theme to help them get clarity on their purpose and true message. It's an intense one hour, on-off, session.
To learn more about the Clarity session contact Fredrik at clarity@interesting.org
Or connect on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikharen/
Visit his website at www.FredrikHaren.com
His Inner Theme: Humanity to the power of ideas
His Brand Moniker: The Creativity Explorer
His Core Message: Helping humanity create its potential
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Key Lessons from this conversation with Fredrik Haren:
- finding your inner theme creates a deeper connection between you and your message
- your strongest message is one that many people need to hear, but only you are uniquely positioned to deliver
- clarity about who you are strengthens clarity in how you speak
- a brand moniker helps you stand apart in a crowded field
- being an explorer creates curiosity, learning, and authenticity
- audiences connect more strongly with authentic conviction than polished perfection
- speakers need to begin where the audience is, not where they are
- the rhetorical structure of position, problem, possibility, proposal gives speeches logical momentum
- people follow messages they believe in more than personalities they admire
- leadership starts with understanding who you are at your core
- being fully present in the moment strengthens delivery and connection
- ideas become reality when people communicate them clearly and convincingly
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Thursday Apr 30, 2026
Thursday Apr 30, 2026
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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Thursday Apr 23, 2026
Thursday Apr 23, 2026
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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Thursday Apr 16, 2026
Thursday Apr 16, 2026
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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Thursday Apr 09, 2026
Thursday Apr 09, 2026
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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Friday Apr 03, 2026
Friday Apr 03, 2026
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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Thursday Mar 26, 2026
Thursday Mar 26, 2026
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.
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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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