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Jefferson Fisher

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

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what it means to assert a boundary

Hey Reader, We often hear that asserting a boundary means drawing a line. But it’s not a line. A boundary is a border. Think of a map—or just driving around your neighborhood. When you see somebody’s fence, it tells you what they own. What they claim to be theirs. Boundaries work the same way. They inform the outside world about where your values are. Let’s say your family is your top priority. That’s a value. We know your values because of the boundaries you set. You say no to the networking...

Hey Reader, You show up.You contribute.You’re kind. But deep down… You don’t feel respected when you speak. In this week’s podcast episode, I’m talking about exactly that—how to be more respected in your communication, without changing who you are. Here’s what you’ll learn: How to use a slower, calmer voice to instantly command more respect The go-to response that helps people know where you stand (even if you don't know the right answer) What to say when someone crosses the line—and how to...

Hey Reader, You have great ideas in meetings. But when you speak up, people don’t take you seriously. Your ideas deserve attention, but they’re falling flat. Why? Because you’re downplaying your ideas instead of asserting them.Here’s exactly how to fix that: Next time someone asks for your opinion in a meeting, don’t start with “I think” or “I feel.” Soft language undercuts your credibility. So use predicting language instead like: “I predict…”“I anticipate…”“I envision…” It signals that...

Hey Reader, You’re mid-sentence, making a point. And suddenly they jump in with, “Well, you know what I think…” Just like that, they’ve taken over the conversation. Now what? In this week’s podcast episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to respond when someone talks over you—without raising your voice or losing your ground. Here’s what you’ll learn: The common (but ineffective) responses that actually make you look desperate What to say instead—so you stay confident and in control Why your...

Hey Reader, I don't know if I'm the first to tell you this but… You don't have to attend every argument you're invited to. Someone wants to argue? They’re handing you an invite. And you get to decide if you’re going. Get in the habit of declining with no regret.Here’s how to do it: #1. Decide if it’s worth it. Ask yourself, "Is this invitation going to teach me or cheat me of my time and energy?" #2. Shut it down. Say, "I'm not going there." You don't owe them more explanation than that. #3....

Hey Reader, Some conversations stay with you forever. And this one? It’s one of them. In this week’s podcast episode, I’m talking with Damon West—a man who went from a life sentence in prison to being a speaker, author, and a really good friend. This conversation is about communication, yes. But it’s also about transformation. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why every conversation should start with service The 4 words Damon carried with him through prison—and why they still matter now How sharing...

Hey Reader, Manipulation often shows up quietly. You start second-guessing yourself. You apologize all the time, even when you didn’t do anything wrong. You feel yourself pulling back, but you can’t quite explain why. That’s not you being too sensitive. That’s a signal. Here are 3 signs someone is trying to manipulate you:#1. There’s a power dynamic. There’s something about you they want—your intelligence, your looks, your job, your reputation. They’re drawn to your strength. And they want to...

Hey Reader, Let’s talk about the silent treatment. Not taking a moment to cool off. I’m talking about the power play—the emotional shutdown that implies, “You’ll come to me.” I don’t like it. And you shouldn’t either. Because silence isn’t communication. It’s control. In this week’s podcast episode, I’m giving you a practical way to handle the silent treatment without chasing, begging, or losing your peace. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why silence isn’t a strategy How to call out the behavior...

Hey Reader, You didn’t start the fight—but now they’re yelling. Their voice is rising. And your nervous system is screaming: Yell back. Defend yourself. Get loud. But that’s not the way to win this moment. In this week’s podcast episode, I’m teaching you exactly what to do when someone is shouting at you—so you don’t spiral, shut down, or shout back. Here’s what you’ll learn: How to get them to lower their volume (without asking) A simple strategy to add space and stay calm—even when they’re...

Hey Reader, Most people freeze up when it’s time for small talk. They either say nothing… Or blurt out something awkward and wish they hadn’t. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s a quick 3-step formula you can use anywhere. It works every time: #1. Say something casual. It can be about anything—weather, clothes, coffee. Ideally, it’s interesting. But honestly? It doesn’t have to be. #2. Ask a question of preference. If you say, “Beautiful weather we’re having,” and they agree, follow...