What Nature Teaches About Communication: Hugh Coppen

The Power of Listening—Lessons from Elephants and Lions Elephant Wisdom: Be Still, Listen, and Lead

Episode 278: (Hugh is based in San Fransico)

In this conversation with Hugh Coppen we explore:

• how animals communicate clearly without words

• why listening is a survival skill in nature—and in business

• what elephants and lions can teach us about leadership

• how body language signals intent, trust, and respect

• the importance of belonging and team spirit

• why patience and silence build awareness

• how communication extends across species

• how natural systems model mutual respect and cooperation

• how immersion in wilderness renews perspective and purpose

• the elephant’s message for human beings: listen, think, and be content

-----

About our guest, Hugh Coppen:

Hugh grew up on his family farm in Zimbabwe where he developed his lifelong passion for wildlife and nature in the African wilderness.

He eagerly spreads his love of nature and lessons from wildlife.

He has severed as CEO of companies in the US, Canada and the UK.

He leads safaris to Zimbabwe to help connect you with nature and the lessons of African wild life. https://tasimba.com/

-----

Key lessons from this conversation:

• Listening deeply reveals more than speaking.

• Body language is the oldest and most honest form of communication.

• Smell, sound, and stillness carry powerful meaning.

• Awareness depends on observation and patience.

• Trust and belonging are essential survival messages.

• Respect sustains harmony and safety.

• Communication includes shared signals across species.

• Leadership in nature depends on clarity and calm.

• Contentment and self-awareness are signs of true wisdom.

• Happiness is created, not consumed.

------

----more----

Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self.

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

 

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

 

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills