Ever found yourself dreading a tough conversation—with an employee, a client, or even someone you love? In this episode of The Inside BS Show, Dave Lorenzo sits down with communication expert Lynne Franklin to unpack the science and psychology behind how to handle difficult conversations effectively.
Lynne shares her shocking early-career story involving a runaway teen and a machete—an experience that forever changed her approach to connecting with people. From that day on, she dedicated her career to understanding how we can reach the “unreachable” and create meaningful dialogue even in the most tense situations.
Key Topics Discussed:
- How one terrifying encounter shaped Lynne’s lifelong mission to help people connect.
- Why every tough conversation starts with a gap in expectations—and how to bridge it.
- The neuroscience behind communication: what your brain does when tension rises.
- The “7-Second Rule” for remembering names (and why most of us fail at it).
- How to spot and speak to “lookers,” “listeners,” and “touchers.”
- Why understanding the other person’s story is the key to persuasion.
- The single most powerful breathing exercise to reset your mind before a tough talk.
- The difference between talking the walk and walking the talk—and why leaders get it wrong.
- How executives and teams can build cultures of communication that eliminate misunderstanding.
About Lynne Franklin:
Lynne Franklin is an author, executive communication coach, and former president of the National Speakers Association’s Illinois Chapter. Known as a “neuroscience nerd,” she transforms complex brain research into practical tools that help leaders connect, persuade, and influence. Her clients include C-suite executives, sales teams, and organizations that want to communicate with empathy and impact.
Connect with Lynne Franklin:
Website: www.LynneFranklin.com
Email: Lynne@LynneFranklin.com
Phone: (847) 729-5716
Connect with Dave Lorenzo:
Website: GetInsideBS.com
Call: (305) 692-5531
Buy the 60 Second Sale Book:
https://www.amazon.com/60-Second-Sale-Ultimate-Relationships/dp/1119499763
Call to Action:
Before you start your next tough conversation, take a breath—literally. Then listen to this episode and learn how to transform conflict into connection using the science of communication.
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