The Skill We Think We’re Good At, But Rarely Practice with Intention
Last week, I taught a workshop for an association. The audience included a wide range of experience levels, from new college graduates just getting started in their careers to seasoned professionals with decades of experience under their belts. The client wanted the content to resonate with everyone in the room, regardless of career level, and they wanted every participant to walk away with something they could actually use. At the end of every workshop, I like to ask two que
Speak From Your Truth - Why Authentic Communication Matters More Than “Performance”
Have you ever felt like you should communicate a certain way, even when it didn’t feel natural? Maybe you’ve watched other speakers and found yourself trying to copy them… only to feel drained or even, dare I say it… inauthentic afterward. You’re not alone - and it’s exactly why authentic communication is one of the most powerful skills you can cultivate as a speaker. A thoughtful piece in Toastmasters International Magazine explored this experience by highlighting real st
Why We Miscommunicate (and How to Do Better)
If you’ve ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “How did that go so sideways?,” chances are perception and perspective were at play. They’re closely related, often confused, and at the root of many everyday communication breakdowns. The good news is that once you understand the difference, small shifts can lead to big changes in how you connect with others. Let’s start with a simple breakdown of the difference between perception and perspective. Perception is what y
