194. Live Lessons in Levity and Leadership: Me2We 2025 Part 1

Effective leadership begins with the way you communicate.

Leading with impact isn’t about speaking louder—it’s about communicating in ways that resonate with what people already value. In Part 1 of this special two-part series from the Stanford LEAD Me2We Conference, Matt Abrahams brings together four expert GSB faculty—Allison Kluger, Nir Halevy, Christian Wheeler, and Naomi Bagdonas—to explore how to lead and communicate with intention. They share how authenticity builds trust, why discomfort is essential for growth, how to design space for serendipity, and the role AI can play in expanding—not replacing—human potential. From managing reputation to staying present in high-pressure moments, this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart offers insights to help leaders connect more effectively, show up with purpose, and inspire meaningful action.

Episode Reference Links:

Allison Kluger Book Allison Contributed to: Brand Up Naomi Bagdonas Nir Halevy Christian Wheeler Learn more about the Stanford Lead Program Ep.2 Communicating Our Multiple Selves: How to Effectively Manage Your Reputation Ep.13 Make ’Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your Communication Ep.30 Dissolve Disagreements: How Communication Impacts Conflict Ep.18 Managing in the Moment: How to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

Connect:

Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> [email protected] Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction(02:44) - Managing Reputation and Authentic Communication(04:46) - Leadership Pluralism and Team Culture(06:46) - Discomfort, Growth, and Distraction(11:10) - Guiding Principles and the Serendipity Fund(13:45) - Using AI in Teaching and Research(21:06) - Fixing Hierarchies with CPR(23:01) - Authenticity, Humor Styles, and Human Flourishing(25:50) - Executive Presence and Owning the Room(28:39) - Writing Better Titles and Facilitating Interactions(30:32) - Conclusion

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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.

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• Latest episode: 2025-05-20
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