Think you’re either born a great conversationalist or destined to struggle through awkward small talk forever? Think again. In this episode, I chat with Alison Wood Brooks, behavioral scientist and author of Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves. We dig deep into the hidden mechanics of conversation, the myths holding us back, and tools you can use to connect meaningfully with anyone—whether you’re closing a deal, leading a team, or simply sharing stories with friends and family.

This isn’t your standard “how-to” guide. Alison’s research-backed insights and unique personal anecdotes make this an episode that will shift how you approach every interaction. From the small details of word choice to the big-picture art of building trust, we uncover how the most essential life skill—talking—is also the most overlooked.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• Why even “bad” small talk can be a bridge to deep connections

• The subtle art of asking questions that captivate, not interrogate

• Why humor isn’t about being funny—but about finding the fun

• Alison’s favorite tricks to save a dying conversation without breaking a sweat

• How technology has unlocked groundbreaking ways to study human dialogue

• Tools to turn awkward moments into powerful opportunities

Get ready to rethink what it means to truly communicate. This episode is packed with ideas you’ll want to try out immediately.

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Check out Alison’s website

Alison’s Book: Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Ourselves

What does it take to truly excel under pressure, build an unbeatable team, and achieve your goals?

In this episode, I sit down with Rich Diviney, retired Navy SEAL officer and author, to uncover the secrets behind human performance and team dynamics. Rich shares his insights on the attributes that determine success, how to identify them in ourselves and others, and what separates good performers from exceptional ones. We dive into the profound difference between skills and attributes, the power of humility, and how to leverage resilience and perseverance in both life and business.

Whether you're striving to grow your business, lead a high-performing team, or simply become the best version of yourself, this episode will keep you moving forward. Tune in and find out what it really takes to thrive in uncertain and challenging environments.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• The difference between skills and attributes—and why one matters more under pressure

• The essential attribute for bouncing back after setbacks

• Why humility is the secret weapon of high-performing teams

• How to focus only on what you can control and avoid the trap of overthinking

• The surprising link between your identity and your performance

• Why perseverance without resilience can lead to burnout

• The Navy SEAL approach to breaking down overwhelming challenges

• A quick tool to master compartmentalization and stay focused under stress

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!

Jonny Miller’s Episode on Nervous System Mastery

Henning Streubel’s Episode on Quickly Processing Setbacks

Check out Rich’s Company’s Website

Special code for 15% off the assessment: REALRELATIONSHIPS15

Have you ever wished your team would come to you with solutions instead of problems? In this episode, I sit down with Dominic Ashley-Timms , co-author of The Answer is a Question, to discuss how a simple shift in how you engage with your team can save you time, build confidence in others, and transform your impact from manager to leader. Dominic shares a groundbreaking method of “operational coaching” that replaces reactive solutions with questions that unlock potential. Drawing on years of research and proven results, Dominic explains how this powerful method can free up 20-50% of your time—so you can focus on what really matters, whether it's growth targets, client relationships, or innovation.

We break down Dominic’s “STAR Model,” a proven framework to stop, think, ask, and get results. Plus, Dominic shares some of the most provocative questions you can ask to change context, challenge barriers, and unleash your team’s ability to solve their own problems. If you’re ready to transform how you lead, this episode will give you the tools to engage differently and achieve more—without working harder.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• How to save 20-50% of your time as a leader

• Why solving your team’s problems for them is holding everyone back

• How the STAR model turns everyday conversations into coaching moments

• The simple question that boosts commitment and follow-through

• Why “low-power” questions are your secret leadership blind spot

• What happens when you challenge your team’s assumptions with a question

If you want to dive deeper into Dominic’s transformative approach, check out his book, The Answer is a Question. To take it even further, explore starmanager.global here.

Don’t miss this opportunity to reshape how you lead, engage your team, and free up time for what truly matters!

Resources Mentioned:

Order your copy of Give to Grow

Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow

Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!