Making Yourself Clear

🔍 Episode Summary:

Have you ever gotten lost in the clouds of abstract language—or buried under too much detail? Welcome to the Ladder of Abstraction.

In this episode, Chris and Patrick explore how this powerful concept shapes every conversation you have. Whether you're talking about a specific cow named Bessie or referring to "assets" or "conscious beings," you're moving up or down a ladder that affects how clearly you’re underst...

🔍 Episode Summary:

You know those conversations where someone gives you an answer that’s technically correct… but still leaves you confused, misled, or frustrated?

In this episode, Chris and Patrick introduce four unwritten rules for clear communication—based on philosopher H.P. Grice’s famous “Maxims of Conversation.” These rules govern how we speak so that others understand, and how to listen for clarity or misdirection.

With real-...

🔍 Episode Summary:

Setting boundaries is essential—but for many people, it feels uncomfortable, guilt-inducing, or downright scary. In this episode, Chris and Patrick unpack the art of boundary-setting in a way that’s honest, kind, and clear (and occasionally funny).

They explore why saying “yes” too much can leave you depleted, how to shift your inner narrative around “no,” and why boundaries aren’t about pushing people away—they’r...

Some conversations change the course of your life—and you don’t always see them coming. But when you do know in advance that a conversation could be high stakes, what do you do with that knowledge?

In this episode, Chris and Patrick introduce the CPR framework: a simple, powerful method for preparing to have high-stakes conversations with greater clarity, purpose, and respect. Whether you're navigating tough feedback, negotiating a...

In a world of curated highlight reels and shallow small talk, real connection can feel like a lost art. In this episode, Chris and Patrick argue that deep, meaningful connection requires us to be a little messy, a little vulnerable, and a lot more intentional. They explore why we often feel most connected during our least polished moments — and how embracing emotional risk creates space for deeper conversations. Along the way, they...

🎙️ Episode Summary

In this episode of Making Yourself Clear, Chris and Patrick take on one of the most misunderstood and misused tools in communication: feedback. They begin by rejecting the outdated “compliment sandwich” and offer a fresh, practical perspective on what actually makes feedback land—and what makes it awkward or counterproductive.

With trademark humor and clarity, they explore why feedback often feels risky, how to ...

In this episode, Chris and Patrick dive deep into the art of genuine apologies. They explore why most apologies fail, the anatomy of a real apology, and how to avoid common pitfalls when apologizing. The hosts emphasize that effective apologies aren't about relieving your own guilt but about acknowledging harm, taking responsibility, and rebuilding trust. They discuss how proper apologies can strengthen relationships through the "r...

Chris and Patrick explore strategies for discussing heated topics with people you strongly disagree with.

They emphasize the importance of understanding why you want to have such conversations, preparing for emotional triggers, and having a game plan. They recommend being intentional about your mindset — advocating dialogue over debate, perspectives rather than positions, and assuming positive intent. They explore techniques for ef...

Chris and Patrick discuss the pitfalls of the suggestion "let's agree to disagree" in arguments, highlighting that it often leaves one or more parties feeling unheard and frustrated. They emphasize the need for mutual understanding before reaching such a conclusion.

They argue that "agree to disagree" often signals the end of a conversation without actually resolving anything. They suggest alternatives like like pausing conversatio...