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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.

Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Mindfulness can transform your communication and your career.

When we react, our instincts and impulses are in the driver’s seat. But when we take the time to reflect, that’s when Marshall Goldsmith says we take back control of how we respond.

“​​​​Before speaking at work, breathe,” Goldsmith says. “Is my comment going to improve this other human being's commitment? At home, breathe. Is my comment going to improve this relationship with someone I love? If the answer is no, why am I saying it?”

As a world-renowned executive coach, speaker, and best-selling author, Goldsmith teaches how a mindful approach can change how we relate to others, to ourselves, and even to our career goals and ambitions. Through reflection, we identify our values, which we can use to live what Goldsmith calls an “earned life — when the choices, risks, and effort we make in each moment align with an overarching purpose in our lives.”

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Goldsmith joins host Matt Abrahams to explore practical strategies for bettering our interactions with others and ourselves, from his “feed forward” method for giving and receiving constructive critique to his "daily questions" practice, which prompts reflective self-inquiry to keep us focused on what truly matters.

Episode Reference Links:

Marshall Goldsmith • Marshall’s Books: 
What Got Here Won't Get You There • / 
Triggers • 
Ep.138 Speak Your Truth: Why Authenticity Leads to Better Communication

Connect:

Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(01:50) - Key Communication Advice
(02:32) - An Earned Life
(04:29) - Transition to Leadership
(06:00) - Breathe Before Speaking
(07:15) - Feedforward vs. Feedback
(08:15) - Managing Triggers
(10:06) - Daily Success Checklist
(12:44) - Using AI for Coaching
(14:13) - Influencing Up Leadership
(15:48) - The Final Three Questions
(18:43) - Conclusion

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

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172. Bring Mindfulness to Your Communication

Master holiday conversations.

The holiday season is a time of joy, connection, and, occasionally, communication challenges and as we gather with family, friends, and colleagues, effective communication becomes crucial. To help make this time more enjoyable, this special Think Fast Talk Smart “Rethinks” episode revisits favorite “recipes” from past Stanford guests along with Matt’s advice for tackling three common holiday scenarios: contributing effectively to ongoing conversations, engaging in meaningful small talk, and managing conflict with clarity and empathy. Whether it's making small talk or resolving conflicts, these strategies aim to turn holiday communication hurdles into opportunities for connection and collaboration.

Episode Reference Links:

Ep.169 Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count • 

Connect:

Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(02:39) - Challenge 1: Inserting Your Voice into Conversations
(03:54) - Expert Insights on Inserting Ideas
(05:40) - Challenge 2: Mastering Small Talk
(07:16) - Expert Strategies for Small Talk
(09:18) - Challenge 3: Managing Holiday Conflicts
(11:05) - Expert Tips for Conflict Resolution
(12:42) - Conclusion

********
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173. Rethinks: Surviving the Holidays

Turn any meeting or get-together into a chance for deep connection and collaboration.

Whether you’re holding a team meeting or hosting a family get-together, the success of any gathering, says Priya Parker, isn’t about the perfect agenda or venue, but about the intentionality behind how you bring people together.

“90% of the success of any gathering happens before anyone enters the room,” says Parker. As the author of The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters, and a strategic advisor who has helped organizations worldwide reimagine their gatherings, Parker believes that thoughtful preparation can turn any meeting, whether professional or personal, into a meaningful and memorable experience for all involved. “Intentionality is the first step,” she says, “to pause and ask: why are we doing this? What is the purpose? What is the need in this community or in this classroom or in this team?”

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Parker joins Matt Abrahams to explore the art of meaningful gatherings, sharing practical strategies for everything from crafting invitations that prime engagement to designing powerful closings that leave a lasting impact. By being more thoughtful in bringing people together, we can transform ordinary meetings into extraordinary opportunities for connection and collaboration.

Episode Reference Links:

Priya Parker • 
 • Priya’s Book: 
The Art of Gathering • 
Ep.124 Making Meetings Meaningful, Pt. 1: How to Structure and Organize More Effective Gatherings • 
Ep.125 Making Meetings Meaningful, Pt. 2: Key Ingredients for Effective Meetings • 

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • ,
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

Chapters:

 • (00:00) - Introduction 

 • (01:29) - Intentionality in Everyday Conversations 

 • (03:15) - Questioning the Purpose of Gatherings 

 • (05:23) - The Power of Great Questions 

 • (08:26) - Managing Heat in Conversations 

 • (10:35) - Encouraging Participation Beforehand 

 • (13:15) - Creating Impactful Endings 

 • (15:41) - The Final Three Questions 

 • (18:35) - Conclusion

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

174. Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful Moments

Crafting impactful toasts for every occasion.

"Almost reflexively, most of us focus in the moment on how others are perceiving us, yet these situations aren't about us at all." Matt Abrahams, host of Think Fast, Talk Smart, shares an excerpt from his book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot, on the art of delivering effective toasts and tributes. With a focus on public speaking in celebratory contexts, he offers a structured approach to crafting meaningful remarks.
Matt introduces the WHAT structure—a four-part formula designed to guide speakers through the process. This method helps ensure that the focus remains on the honorees, transforming speeches into gifts for the audience. He further shares tips for refining remarks, including the importance of brevity and the need to prepare for emotional moments. Matt advises, "Be brief and to the point. Long toasts, tributes, or introductions are usually bad ones." He also highlights the significance of setting others up for success, ensuring a smooth flow for subsequent speakers.
With insights from his book and practical examples, Matt equips listeners with the tools to deliver impactful toasts and tributes, making these moments memorable for all involved.

Audio excerpt courtesy of Simon & Schuster Audio from THINK FASTER, TALK SMARTER by Matt Abrahams, read by the author. Copyright 2023 by Matthew Abrahams LLC. Used with permission of Simon & Schuster, Inc.

Episode Reference Links:

Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • ,
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

Chapters:

 • (00:00) - Introduction 

 • (01:50) - Key Insight: Toasts, Tributes, and Introductions 

 • (03:21) - Why it Matters 

 • (04:11) - Craft Your Content 

 • (05:22) - Step One: Why Are We Here? 

 • (06:06) - Step Two: How Are You Connected? 

 • (06:57) - Step Three: Anecdotes or Learnings 

 • (08:05) - Step Four: Thank 

 • (08:47) - Refine Your Remarks 

 • (09:14) - Tip One: Be Brief and to the Point 

 • (10:04) - Tip Two: Prepare to be Emotional 

 • (11:56) - Tip Three: Shine the Spotlight Away From You 

 • (12:26) - Tip Four: Make Your Anecdotes Accessible and Appropriate 

 • (12:56) - Tip Five: Strive for Unity 

 • (14:19) - Tip Six: Set Others Up for Success 

 • (15:12) - Conclusion

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

175. Mastering Toasts and Tributes: Making Your Words Count

Enjoy this preview of our first Ask Matt Anything (AMA).

We are excited to introduce this special edition of Think Fast, Talk Smart, featuring a preview of our first-ever Ask Matt Anything (AMA) episode. Typically, these sessions are exclusive to our Think Fast, Talk Smart Premium members, where Matt Abrahams answers the most pressing communication questions submitted by our premium community. 
Think Fast, Talk Smart Premium was created to deepen our connection with you and support your growth as effective communicators. Premium members enjoy exclusive benefits like regular full-length AMA episodes, eQuips, or Essential Quick Insight Playlist, early access to events, and more. Beyond this, your membership helps us continue to build a global community dedicated to improving communication skills and advancing careers.
If you find this episode helpful, we invite you to join our Think Fast, Talk Smart Premium community to unlock the full library of AMAs, submit your own questions, and gain access to even more tools and resources. Thank you for being part of our journey! You can learn more at fastersmarter.io/premium.

Episode Reference Links:

Ep.133 From Good to Super: How Supercommunicators Unlock the Language of ConnectionEp.137 When Words Aren’t Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal Communication • 

Connect:

Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction
(01:35) - Building Trust with Senior Leadership
(03:57) - Engaging Large Virtual Audiences
(07:45) - Managing Nonverbal Communication 
(09:55) - Balancing Emotions in Conversations
(11:45) - Navigating Status Differences in Meetings 
(14:50) - Conclusion

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

Ask Matt Anything (AMA) 1: Trust, Paraphrasing, and Nonverbal Cues

Age diversity and cross-generational synergy can transform an organization.

Most of us know age diversity matters in the workplace. But according to UCLA’s Bob McCann, we're thinking about it all wrong: it's not just about having different generations present — it's about creating meaningful connections between them.

As director of UCLA's Leadership Communication Program and founder of the McCann Group, McCann has spent years researching intergenerational workplace dynamics. With four to six generations now working side by side, he says there’s never been a better time to create synergies between the old and the young.

"There's a tremendous opportunity for meeting and interacting with people who are different than you, for increasing a variety of potential outcomes in business in a positive way, if we can maximize our intergenerational engagement," he says. His research reveals that while many organizations focus on gender and ethnic diversity, age diversity often gets overlooked in DEI initiatives — despite its crucial role in workplace success.

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, McCann joins Matt Abrahams to discuss how organizations can move beyond superficial age diversity to create meaningful cross-generational connections. From reverse mentoring programs to shadow boards, they explore practical ways leaders can harness the power of generational difference to drive innovation and collaboration.

Episode Reference Links:

Bob McCannEp.67 What Is Normal? How Culture Affects Communication StylesEp.21 Words Matter: How to Make Your Communication Inclusive

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • ,
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

Chapters:

 • (00:00) - Introduction 

 • (02:06) - Why Generational Interactions Matter 

 • (02:59) - What is a Generation? 

 • (04:08) - Combating Workplace Ageism 

 • (05:26) - Breaking Stereotypes 

 • (08:01) - Better Intergenerational Interactions 

 • (10:46) - Technology and Training Across Generations 

 • (12:31) - The Three Final Questions 

 • (18:19) - Conclusion

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

176. From Stereotypes to Synergy: Communicating Across Generations

Ten essential communication strategies designed to elevate your skills.

2024 has been an incredible year for learning and growth, and as we head into 2025, there’s no better time to reflect on the skills and strategies that can shape our communication and careers. In this special episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Matt Abrahams takes us through ten standout lessons from the past year. These aren’t just ideas to remember — they’re practices to evolve with. From Priya Parker’s insights on generous authority to Huggy Rao’s call to cut through jargon monoxide, each concept highlights how small shifts in mindset and behavior can lead to big transformations. With actionable advice and real-world examples, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you Think Fast, Talk Smart, and communicate better in the year ahead.

Thank you to our Sponsor Superhuman for offering the TFTS community one month free.

Episode Reference Links:

Ep.174 Fix Meetings: Transform Gatherings Into Meaningful MomentsEp.164 Using "Pre-suasion" to Influence OthersEp.158 Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through CommunicationEp.156 Creative Communication: How Our Design Choices Illustrate Our ValuesEp.148 Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard ConversationsEp.142 Power and Persuasion: Live Insights from Stanford ExpertsEp.137 When Words Aren’t Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal CommunicationEp.138 Speak Your Truth: Why Authenticity Leads to Better CommunicationEp.134 How to Chat with Bots: The Secrets to Getting the Information You Need from AIEp.131 Friction Fixing: How to Use Obstacles to Your Advantage • 
Ep.120 A Few of Matt’s Favorite Things: 10 Communication Takeaways from 2023's TFTS Episodes • 

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • ,
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

Chapters:

 • (00:00) - Introduction 

 • (02:23) - Priya Parker: Gatherings And Generous Authority 

 • (04:29) - Robert Cialdini: Pre-Suasion 

 • (06:15) - Jamil Zaki: Trust Loudly 

 • (07:28) - Scott Dorley: Design Your Environment 

 • (09:54) - Irv Grousbeck: Brevity Conveys Conviction 

 • (11:23) - Michele Gelfand: Mind Your Metaphors 

 • (12:53) - Dana Carney: Take Space With Words 

 • (14:23) - Julia Minson: Use Hear When In Conflict 

 • (16:59) - Jeremy Utley And Kian Gohar: How To Chat With Bots 

 • (18:38) - Huggy Rao: Avoid Jargon Monoxide 

 • (20:44) - Conclusion

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

177. Don’t Resolve, Evolve: Top 10 Lessons From 2024

Join Matt Abrahams, lecturer in strategic communication at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he sits down with experts from across the world to discuss public speaking anxiety, speaking off the cuff, nailing a Q&A, and more.

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • , 
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

Introducing Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast

Most professional communication is spontaneous in nature: it’s providing feedback in the moment, answering questions, introducing people. On this podcast episode, Strategic Communication lecturer Matt Abrahams speaks with Stanford lecturers Adam Tobin and Dan Klein on how to become more comfortable and confident in in-the-moment speaking situations. 

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • , 
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

1. Speaking Without a Net: How to Master Impromptu Communication

How others perceive us in person and via social media can impact our careers and social standing. But we can build the reputation we want through conscious communication. On this podcast episode, strategic communication lecturers Matt Abrahams and Allison Kluger share techniques on effectively improving and managing your reputation.

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • , 
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

********
Become a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.

Take advantage of our Sponsor offer from Superhuman

2. Communicating Our Multiple Selves: How to Effectively Manage Your Reputation

Introducing our new Premium membership, designed to enhance communication and career skills with expanded content and tools. Enjoy early access to live events, AMAs (Ask Matt Anything), eQuips—Essential Quick Insight Playlists—Extended Deep Thinks episodes, and the AI Chat Matt tool.

The focus is on building a global community where members can connect, share insights, and receive feedback. A portion of membership fees will support charities dedicated to developing communication skills worldwide. 

Connect:

Premium Signup • >>>> 
Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback • >>> hello@fastersmarter.io
Episode Transcripts • >>>
 Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning • >>>
 FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart • >>>
 LinkedIn • ,
 Instagram • , 
YouTubeMatt Abrahams • >>>
 LinkedIn

Launching: Think Fast Talk Smart Premium

Launching: Think Fast Talk Smart Premium

Lyt når som helst, hvor som helst

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