Blog Archives
Communicate Like a Champion
Eli Champion’s Communicate Like a Champion is a straightforward, practical guide to improving professional communication. The book breaks down why communication matters, how intentions shape interactions, what factors influence the way messages are received, and how to put strategies into practice with clarity and empathy. It’s full of simple, actionable steps, like clarifying your purpose before a meeting, checking tone in emails, and following up after conversations, that aim to make anyone a more confident and respected communicator.
What stood out to me initially was the book’s emphasis on practical application rather than abstract theory. Champion illustrates this with the example of a manager calling for “a quick meeting” without providing context. As he explains, such ambiguity often leaves employees uncertain and anxious, unsure whether they have erred or whether the meeting is merely routine. I found this example particularly resonant, having experienced the situation from both perspectives as the uneasy employee and as the manager who failed to provide sufficient clarity. The recommended adjustments, such as stating the purpose of the meeting at the outset or clarifying next steps before closing, are deceptively simple yet highly effective. I could immediately envision how these practices would have alleviated unnecessary tension and improved understanding. This emphasis on directness and transparency exemplifies the book’s core message: communicate with precision to minimize confusion and foster confidence.
I found the chapter on the “7 Components of Communication” particularly instructive. While the framework, clarity, confidence, respect, listening, tone, empathy, and follow-up may appear familiar, Champion’s illustrations prompted meaningful reflection on my own communication practices. One example contrasted the response “I don’t think that will work” with the more considerate phrasing, “I see your point, but can I offer another perspective?” The distinction is subtle yet powerful, highlighting how word choice and tone can determine whether a message is received as dismissive or constructive. Confronted with this comparison, I recognized moments when I have defaulted to the blunt response, often unintentionally undermining collaboration. The example served as a useful reminder of the value of consistently striving for a more respectful approach.
Another notable feature of the book is the 28-day communication challenge. Organized around weekly themes, such as clarity, listening, empathy, and follow-up, it provides daily prompts that encourage practical application, including exercises like restating a colleague’s point to confirm understanding or sending a follow-up email after a meeting. I appreciated that this section moves beyond theory to establish a structured practice routine. When I applied one of the suggested exercises, clarifying my intention at the beginning of a meeting, I was struck by how much more effectively the conversation unfolded. The challenge, paired with the book’s approachable tone, created the sense of being guided by a mentor offering encouragement, rather than being instructed by a prescriptive voice.
I found Communicate Like a Champion to be highly practical and accessible. Rather than relying on jargon or overly complex frameworks, it presents straightforward tools and encourages consistent application. I would recommend this book to early-career professionals seeking to develop confidence, to managers aiming to strengthen their leadership presence, and to anyone who has left a conversation feeling uncertain about its outcome. With reflection and deliberate practice, the strategies outlined here have the potential to significantly improve the way one engages in meetings, correspondence, and professional interactions more broadly.
Pages: 65 | ASIN : B0FG71T9MZ
Your Road to Yes!: How to Build Trust in Yourself and with Others
Your Road to Yes! is a heartfelt and gutsy exploration of what it really takes to build trust—within yourself and with others. This book isn’t just about professional growth; it’s about personal healing too. Author Justin Patton breaks down trust into its moving parts, then rebuilds it with fierce honesty, storytelling, and practical advice. From everyday situations to life-changing revelations, he guides readers through what trust looks like in action, why it fails, and how to rebuild it. If Leadership Presence was about how to show up, Your Road to Yes! is about why showing up matters in the first place.
I liked how deeply personal this book is. Patton doesn’t just teach trust—he lays bare his own journey. In the first chapter, he shares a story about crashing his bike as a kid and how his tough Air Force dad gently carried him home and bandaged his toe. That moment, he writes, was his first real memory of trust. It got me thinking about those rare times in life when someone showed up for me with zero judgment. It’s this emotional openness that gives the book its power. Another example that resonated with me was the anecdote about his mom—how she never gave up on their relationship, even when things weren’t perfect. It made me reflect on how many times I’ve let silence kill trust in my own life because I didn’t want to rock the boat. Patton flips that idea. He says silence is our biggest threat, and that message echoed throughout the whole book like a wake-up call.
From a practical standpoint, this book is a toolbox. Patton outlines what erodes trust (like emotional exhaustion and fear-based leadership), and how to repair it with consistent action, transparency, and tact. I really appreciated how he framed trust as something both given from the heart and earned through the head. That balance stuck with me. He’s not shy about calling out performative leadership or the culture of busyness that drowns real connection. He talks about managers needing to stop hiding behind productivity metrics and actually invest in their people. I especially loved the chapter on trust being your “biggest competitive advantage.” It’s not just a nice idea—he backs it up with research and real-world coaching stories. And yet, it’s written in such a warm, down-to-earth tone.
Your Road to Yes! is equal parts pep talk and soul check. It’s a tough but loving reminder that trust doesn’t just happen—it’s built moment by moment, conversation by conversation. If you’ve ever felt like you were walking on eggshells in a relationship, or like your voice didn’t matter at work, this book will crack something open for you. I’d recommend it for leaders, parents, partners—honestly, anyone who wants deeper, healthier relationships. It’s also perfect for folks feeling stuck or burned out, looking for a more grounded way to lead and live.
Pages: 164 | ASIN : B0B4PFGPJD
Receptive and Ready – How to Thrive on Developmental Input
Receptive and Ready delivers a compelling exploration of a critical yet often overlooked skill: the art of receiving feedback. Artell Smith and Betsy Hagan present a practical guide for transforming feedback into a tool for self-improvement, equipping readers with the mindset and methods to thrive in professional environments. The book distills decades of combined experience into actionable insights, creating a resource that resonates with anyone eager to grow and succeed. Smith and Hagan empower readers to approach feedback with confidence and curiosity. They offer strategies for managing emotional responses, fostering productive dialogue, and embracing growth opportunities.
The book’s strength lies in its multidimensional approach. It blends technical guidance with thoughtful exploration of the emotional and psychological aspects of feedback reception. Interactive elements, such as discussion questions at the end of each chapter, prompt readers to engage deeply with the material and relate it to their own experiences. Real-world examples, like the case study of Rose, demonstrate how to apply feedback analysis tools in practical scenarios, bringing abstract concepts to life. The authors draw inspiration from thought leaders like Stephen Covey, Carol Dweck, and Brené Brown, integrating these foundational theories with their own insights. This synthesis results in a cohesive narrative that balances intellectual rigor with practical relevance. The book’s frameworks are versatile and adaptable, making them applicable across industries and roles, which broadens its appeal to a wide professional audience. Written in a clear, conversational style, Receptive and Ready communicates complex ideas in an accessible way. The tone is empathetic and motivational, reflecting the authors’ genuine desire to help readers unlock their potential. By blending theory with actionable advice, the book strikes a balance that is both thought-provoking and immediately applicable. Although it covers a broad range of topics, the content remains focused and digestible, avoiding the pitfall of overwhelming readers with excessive information. The depth of research and detail in the book underscores the authors’ expertise and dedication. Drawing on established theories while introducing fresh perspectives, Smith and Hagan provide a well-rounded exploration of feedback dynamics. Their guidance extends beyond workplace interactions, offering valuable insights for leaders, professionals, and lifelong learners striving for personal growth.
Receptive and Ready is a standout contribution to self-improvement and leadership literature. Its actionable strategies, relatable anecdotes, and empathetic tone make it an invaluable resource for mastering the transformative power of feedback. Smith and Hagan deliver a clear and engaging guide that inspires readers to embrace feedback as a catalyst for growth.
Pages: 117 | ASIN : B0DNNY3XQ5
I Respectfully Disagree
Justin Jones-Fosu’s I Respectfully Disagree delves into the delicate art of navigating tough conversations in an increasingly polarized world. The book introduces practical tools and principles to bridge divides without sacrificing authenticity or relationships. Using relatable anecdotes, Jones-Fosu outlines a five-pillar framework for fostering meaningful and respectful dialogue while challenging readers to see disagreements as opportunities for growth rather than barriers.
What I loved most about this book is how it feels deeply personal yet universally applicable. Jones-Fosu draws on his upbringing and professional experiences to underline the importance of empathy and perspective. The chapter introducing “Golden Respect” particularly stood out to me. It redefines respect not as something earned or transactional but as a fundamental acknowledgment of humanity. I found the comparison between societal respect norms and Golden Respect’s ideals enlightening, especially the principle that respect is more about internal conviction than external behaviors. This notion reframed how I approach disagreements in my life.
The stories Jones-Fosu uses to illustrate his points hit close to home. It’s a reminder that behind every sharp word is a tangled web of past experiences and unmet expectations. Similarly, the chapter on the power dynamics in workplace disagreements gave me pause. The tale of Jonathan, the corporate leader who mistook dissent for disrespect, highlighted how unchecked authority stifles innovation and erodes trust—a cautionary tale for anyone in a leadership role. Another standout is the Tortoise Principle, which emphasizes small, consistent efforts over grand gestures in fostering better communication habits. It’s a comforting idea in a world where instant solutions are often glorified. The book’s refusal to oversimplify the complexities of human interaction is refreshing.
I Respectfully Disagree is a timely, heartfelt, and actionable guide for anyone seeking to engage in deeper, more constructive conversations. It’s ideal for professionals, families, and anyone striving to connect across differences with empathy and respect. If you’ve ever found yourself dreading confrontations or unsure how to disagree without damaging relationships, this book will give you the tools to navigate those challenges with confidence and care. Highly recommended!
Pages: 240 | ASIN : B0CDMYLVFC
Mistakes, Misstatements, Lies and Other Miscommunication Tactics
Norm Cairns’ Mistakes, Misstatements, Lies, and Other Miscommunication Tactics is a witty exploration of the myriad ways communication goes awry, sprinkled with humor, philosophy, and a touch of absurdity. The book oscillates between fictional tales and reflective commentary, weaving a patchwork of anecdotes and insights that challenge readers to think critically about language and its impacts. It’s a cerebral yet playful work that doesn’t shy away from poking fun at the complexities of human interaction.
One thing I immediately enjoyed about this book is its dry humor. In the introduction, Cairns reflects on the evolution of the English language, describing it as both “a patchwork quilt of other languages” and “a disgusting lingua franca.” This sets the tone for the rest of the book—biting, unapologetic, and insightful. I chuckled at the author’s sardonic observation of American English’s global infiltration, not through admiration, but necessity. It’s a blend of erudition and irreverence that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The fictional chapters are where Cairns truly shines. “Two Detectives Meet the Mummy” exemplifies his knack for creating chaotic yet relatable dialogues. The interaction between Floyd and the narrator, discussing whether “Why?” or “What the f***?” was the first question humanity ever asked, is both absurd and oddly profound. It captures the bizarre beauty of human communication—messy, flawed, and full of unintended revelations. I found myself simultaneously laughing at Floyd’s crudeness and pondering the existential implications of their debate. “The Black Site” explores the grim underbelly of the internet, delving into themes of anonymity and morality. This chapter was a stark contrast to the humor of others and left me feeling uneasy—but in a way that felt intentional. Cairns doesn’t shy away from showing the consequences of miscommunication or deceit, and this tonal shift highlights his versatility as a writer.
In the final reflection, Cairns reminds us of the power and responsibility tied to language. The chapter “The Big Reveal” is particularly memorable, with its poignant commentary on how lies, even small ones, shape relationships, and the world. This chapter left me with a lingering sense of introspection about the words I choose and the impact they have.
This book’s humor leans towards intellectual, with plenty of philosophical musings that might feel dense to some readers. That said, it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a mix of satire, sharp dialogue, and thoughtful reflection. Whether you’re a linguistics enthusiast, a fan of dark humor, or someone fascinated by the quirks of human behavior, Norm Cairns’ Mistakes, Misstatements, Lies, and Other Miscommunication Tactics offers plenty to chew on—and laugh about.
Pages: 243 | ISBN : 978-1304081292
Be Novel and Surprising
Your three-book collection, Briefly Speaking, is more than just a guide to public speaking; it is an entire educational course presented in an easy-to-understand and relatable manner. Why was this an important book for you to write?
We wanted those who aspire to become better presenters and communicators to have a comprehensive guide so they can achieve their ambitions. We designed the three-book series to focus on Prepare, Present, and Communicate to make it easy to find a topic and get practical, useful skills that can be incorporated immediately. Plus, each tip takes under 30 seconds to read—whether it’s how to open, close, tell a story, structure a presentation, or engage an audience. And each book is small enough to carry with you for easy reference.
Communication techniques and approaches are highly personal, but there are some key factors that are essential for getting your message across. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, decide on your message and identify a singular intention or what you want to achieve. Then scan your life for material that will illustrate your message so that it best engages your audience. Use structure so you don’t ramble, and always speak in a genuine, authentic way to build trust and reduce stage fright. And when you communicate, speak with commitment and certainty.
What is the one most important piece of advice you think all presenters should consider when preparing to give a speech, no matter what the topic is?
Determine what you want to achieve (i.e. your Intention) and what will best serve your audience. Then speak in specifics, not generalities so the audience can visualize your content. And be novel and surprising so that you grab and hold the attention of your audience.
Do you have additional books or materials planned that will complement this collection and help readers continue on their journey to improving their communication skills?
Yes, Own the Room (published by McGraw-Hill) and Out Front: How Women Can Become Engaging, Memorable and Fearless Speakers (published by BenBella Books)
Author Links: GoodReads | Eloqui | Outfront | Briefly Speaking | Amazon
Book 1 – Prepare: Creatively Structure and Rehearse Your Content (5 x 7; 254 pages; $29.99 value)
Book 2 – Present: Techniques from the Professionals’ Playbook (5 x 7; 248 pages; $29.99 value)
Book 3 – Communicate: Make the Greatest Impact (5 x 7; 192 pages; $29.99 value)
Happy Thoughts: Going to the Aquarium
Happy Thoughts: Going to the Aquarium, by Lisa Jacovsky, presents an insightful glimpse into the life of Emma, a young girl with autism who has her own unique way of communication. Unlike her peers, Emma relies on index cards to express herself when she feels comfortable, a distinctive trait that sets her apart in social interactions. This narrative becomes especially poignant when Emma encounters new individuals, such as a boy named Alex at the aquarium, highlighting both the challenges and the triumphs of her communication method.
Jacovsky’s narrative is commendable for its sensitive and innovative portrayal of autism. By choosing index cards as Emma’s medium of expression, the author provides a tangible and relatable tool for young readers to understand and empathize with different communication styles. This technique effectively fosters awareness and acceptance among children, demonstrating that differing abilities should be embraced and respected. The aquarium setting is a masterstroke, offering a serene and engaging backdrop for this enlightening tale. It not only serves as a non-threatening environment for character interactions but also enriches the story with vibrant illustrations of marine life, including seals, dolphins, and beluga whales. John Thorn’s illustrations are noteworthy for their charm and their role in bringing the story to life.
Jacovsky‘s book stands out for its educational value, seamlessly weaving a lesson on acceptance and uniqueness into an enjoyable story. Emma’s journey, marked by her distinctive way of interacting with the world, is a testament to the beauty of diversity and the importance of understanding those who may seem different.
Happy Thoughts: Going to the Aquarium is a meaningful exploration of individuality and communication. Jacovsky’s thoughtful approach makes this book a valuable read for children, illuminating the richness that different perspectives bring to our world.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0CVHTT9W5
Great Leadership Starts With You
Iris Du targets leaders in all capacities in her book Great Leadership Starts With You: Be the Leader You Want to Be. The author writes hoping that her knowledge will benefit CEOs, managers, supervisors, youth group leaders, church leaders, and even leaders at home and in schools. The author extensively writes on what it entails to be a leader, how to make people appreciate and respect your position, and how to link with those you are governing. Iris Du uses solid illustrations to give additional details about leadership qualities and further explains how a leader should conduct themselves.
One of the most significant things you need to take note of as a leader is how to communicate. I like that the author started by explaining that great leadership begins with you. You establish yourself by leading from within before you guide others. The author continues to write about communication and how it influences excellent leadership. As an individual, you are taught how to be courteous, live by your values, and communicate what you feel in a modest way. One of the biggest lessons I learned in the book is that leaders are not born but made. You can learn how to be a leader.
In every chapter, the author focuses on one or two subjects that she writes about in detail. For example, the chapter on communication was incredible, and so were the rest of the chapters that discussed gratitude, manifestation, self-awareness, self-discipline, and self-mastery. These chapters have gems of knowledge and are written in an engaging and organized manner. Every chapter in the book starts with a quote from a famous person. She then proceeds to discuss the subject matter and includes quality questions and exercises in every chapter. I appreciate the questions and exercises, as they are vital to helping one self-reflect and change one’s leadership method.
Great Leadership Starts With You: Be The Leader You Want To Be is an eye-opening look at what it takes to become a successful leader in all areas of life, not just the corporate business world. With sound advice backed by case studies and actionable items, readers will be able to transform their leadership style into a more efficient approach that highlights not only their strength but their teams.
Pages: 202 | ASIN : B09HM2SG15
