Most of what we say isn’t planned, and communication expert Matt Abrahams wants us to stop fearing those moments and start embracing them. Karin Reed talks with Matt, a Stanford lecturer and author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter, about how to stay grounded when you’re put on the spot. Why do we freeze when asked an unexpected question or stumble through small talk? What if the key to speaking well off the cuff isn’t perfection, but presence?
Matt shares how letting go of the pressure to sound brilliant (what he calls “maximizing mediocrity”) creates space for real connection. He also offers his “next play” mindset for moving past mistakes and explains why strong communication starts with active listening and clear focus. His mother’s advice sums it up perfectly: “Tell the time, don’t build the clock.”
By the end, you’ll see that spontaneous speaking is a skill you can practice. With a little preparation and curiosity, those unscripted moments can become chances to connect with confidence.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction to Spontaneous Speaking
02:31 Understanding Spontaneous Speaking
05:02 Overcoming Anxiety in Speaking
08:03 Maximizing Mediocrity for Better Communication
10:25 The Importance of Listening
12:57 The Role of Body Language
15:21 The F Word: Focus in Spontaneous Speaking
17:49 Mastering Small Talk
21:05 Key Takeaways and Conclusion
Connect with Matt Abrahams:
Subscribe to Think Fast, Talk Smart on YouTube
Follow Think Fast, Talk Smart on X
Follow Think Fast, Talk Smart on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed:
Explore Speaker Dynamics University
Follow Speaker Dynamics on Instagram
Connect with Karin Reed on LinkedIn
Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm
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