Hey Reader, Want to sound more persuasive? Try this: #1. Make them first. Let the person you want to persuade be the first to hear something, be told something, or share something with. It can be as easy as “I just had a thought that I wanted to run by you first.” People love to be first. It makes them more attentive and more likely to do what you ask. #2. Anchor with positivity. Begin your sentence with “Because I know…” and tag a positive quality about them. For example: “Because I know I...
12 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, As a trial attorney, I have to disarm manipulative people often. And in this week's podcast episode, I'm sharing the exact strategy I use in the courtroom to stop manipulation every single time. In this episode, you'll learn: Why narcissists need momentum (and how to stop it) The short, neutral phrases that take away their power One sentence that shuts down manipulation without escalating Whether you're dealing with a difficult coworker, navigating a tricky family dynamic, or...
14 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, When conversations feel tense, your gut instinct is to push harder. To do more rather than do less. But the more you push, the harder they fight, and that’s not what you want. Instead of pushing, I want you to ask defusing questions. Here’s what they sound like. Begin with: #1. “Is it unreasonable…?” For example, instead of telling someone to lower their voice (which they likely will not do), ask: “Is it unreasonable to ask us to speak at a lower volume?" It’s a question that...
19 days ago • 1 min read
This episode is sponsored by LMNT.Get your free sample pack here. Hey Reader, Want to speak up without coming across as rude? In this week's podcast episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to sound assertive while staying respectful. SPONSOR*This week's episode is brought to you by LMNT. I'm proud to partner with them because they make staying hydrated simple and clean. My kids call it "salty water," and honestly, they ask for it at dinner. We feel good about it because there's no sugar, no...
21 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, You’re in the middle of a heated argument that’s spiraling out of control. Emotions are high. Voices are raised. And neither side is willing to back down. Here are 3 simple strategies to stop a heated argument: #1. Ask, “Is this something we have to agree on?” The answer is probably “no.” Just recognizing that agreement isn’t necessary can immediately reduce the tension. It shifts the focus from trying to convince the other person to simply understanding them. #2. Use the...
26 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, This week's podcast is something special. I'm answering your questions straight from my inbox, and these 3 topics keep popping up because they hit communication roadblocks we all face sooner or later. Can't wait for you to hear it. In this week's episode, I'm teaching you: How to reopen a door that feels permanently closed What to do when you feel like you don't belong The one habit that will improve your communication more than any “perfect phrase” ever will Listen to the episode...
28 days ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, Thank you for being with me this year and for trusting me in moments that mattered. This year my book went places I never imagined and into conversations I'll never get to see. You grew with me as I had my first book launch, visited morning shows, met so many wonderful faces at tour signings and speaking and podcasts, and heard stories of hope I'll never forget. And through my highs and lows, you're still here. I believe a better world begins with a better conversation. Thank you...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, Ever had someone blame you for their bad behavior? “I wouldn’t have yelled if you hadn’t upset me.”“You triggered me. What did you expect?” That’s not accountability. It’s bait. And if you’re not ready, it’s easy to take it. Here are 3 phrases to shut it down without losing your cool: #1. Respond with, “I didn’t yell at myself.” Or, “I didn’t insult myself.” “I didn’t gaslight myself.” This mirrors the moment back to them and makes it crystal clear: You are not the one who crossed...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
Hey Reader, Someone makes a comment in front of other people to put you down. Maybe it’s subtle…or not. Either way, it lands. Most people jump to defend themselves. But that only gives the comment more power. You don’t have to take the bait. Here’s a better way to handle it—calm and confident. #1. Give it five seconds of silence. Do absolutely nothing. No comeback. No explaining. Let their comment fall all the way to the ground. That silence shows you’re not playing their game. #2. Turn to...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read