Influence Every Day

Influence Every Day

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Influence Every Day episodes

  • 034 Waking Up Dead - The Nobel Prize for Pattern Interrupts
    Episode 034: Waking Up Dead - The Nobel Prize for Pattern Interrupts
    Welcome to The Influence Every Day Show with Dr. Ed Tori!

    In this episode, Dr. Ed Tori explores the transformative power of pattern interrupts and how they can inspire profound change in our lives. Using the compelling story of Alfred Nobel reading his own obituary—“The Merchant of Death is Dead”—Dr. Tori illustrates how a single shocking moment can pivot a life’s purpose. If you’ve ever driven somewhere and realized you don’t remember the journey or laughed at an unexpected punchline, you’ve experienced the power of patterns—and the interruptions that break them.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode
    • The story behind Alfred Nobel’s life-changing moment and how it led to the Nobel Prizes.
    • The role of pattern interrupts in commanding attention, sparking discovery, and fostering memorable learning experiences.
    • How patterns influence our biases, attention, and behavior—and why mastering them is essential for influence.
    • The connection between humor, learning, and personal growth through pattern-breaking moments.
    • Practical ways to identify which patterns in your life need a reset to create meaningful, lasting change.
    • Key Insights from This Episode
      1. Attention and Learning: Pattern interrupts command attention and act as a precursor to impactful learning and personal discovery.
      2. The Power of Emotion: Shocking or emotional moments are more likely to stick in our memory and inspire action.
      3. Influence through Patterns: Recognizing, managing, and breaking patterns is a vital skill for anyone seeking to influence for good.
      4. Thought-Provoking Questions
        • What patterns in your life are keeping you stuck?
        • How can you create a deliberate pattern interrupt to drive growth, change, or new insights?
        • What would you discover about yourself if you disrupted your routine in a meaningful way?
        • Pay It Forward

          If today’s episode inspired you, share it with someone who needs a little nudge to break out of their patterns. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show to help others discover The Influence Every Day Show!

          More Resources
          • Join the Influence Book Club: Dive deeper into influence and communication with curated books and expert-led discussions.
          • Explore additional materials and links from this episode to take your influence, impact, and relationships to the next level. Now go forth and influence for good—every day.
          • 9 min
          • 033 Remarkable

            Episode 033 - "Remarkable"

            In today’s episode of The Influence Every Day Show, Dr. Ed Tori explores the power of recognizing the remarkable actions of others. When we notice someone doing something extraordinary, we face a choice: stay silent, acknowledge it internally, or truly amplify it. Dr. Tori delves into one of his seven simple rules of influence—to remark about the remarkables (to a third party). Sharing compliments with someone important to the person being praised can have profound ripple effects, building rapport across relationships and reinforcing positive behaviors.

            Key Takeaways:

            1. Choosing to See Remarkable: Recognizing exceptional actions and taking a moment to truly appreciate them.
            2. Public vs. Private Acknowledgment: Deciding when to praise someone directly or in a group setting and why both matter.
            3. The Third-Party Compliment: Building rapport by telling someone important about a person’s good deeds. This amplifies the effect, as the message is shared without an agenda and often reaches back to the individual.
            4. Spread Good Gossip: Not only does this improve rapport, but it can inspire others to act in kind, creating a culture of positive influence.
            5. Quote of the Episode: "If somebody does something remarkable, remark about it. Seth Godin said, ‘Remarkable is a choice.’ Let’s honor that choice by sharing their actions with others.”

              Who can you recognize today? Tell someone important to them, and watch the influence unfold.

              For more insights and a community dedicated to honing influence skills, visit InfluenceBookClub.com.

              9 min
            6. 032 Credit Is Infinitely Divisible
              Episode 032: Credit Is Infinitely Divisible

              Have you ever worked with someone who never gave credit where it was due? How did it feel?

              In this episode, we dive into a powerful idea: Credit is infinitely divisible. Sharing credit doesn’t take anything away from you—it only strengthens your team, your relationships, and your reputation.

              What You’ll Learn:
              • Why Giving Credit is Essential: Discover how giving credit fosters trust, motivation, and collaboration within any group.
              • Common Pitfalls to Avoid: Learn about the biggest mistakes people make when giving credit—from insincerity to over-crediting—and how these missteps can undermine your impact.
              • Practical Tips for Effective Recognition: Get actionable strategies for giving credit that is sincere, specific, and impactful. Learn when to give credit publicly, when to offer it privately, and why the “invisible” contributions are often the most important to acknowledge.
              • Key Moments:
                • The Power of Sincere Credit: Why recognizing others for their genuine contributions can transform your leadership and inspire others.
                • Common Mistakes in Credit-Giving: We’ll discuss how being vague, giving credit too late, or over-crediting can hurt more than help.
                • Examples You Can Apply: From the workplace to everyday situations, discover simple ways to acknowledge and motivate those around you.
                • Why It Matters: Credit is more than just acknowledgment—it’s a tool for cultivating a culture of trust, gratitude, and collaboration. By the end of this episode, you’ll be inspired to share credit generously, making a lasting positive impact on those you work with and lead.
                • Take Action:

                  After listening, think about someone who deserves credit today. Take a moment to pull them aside, express your gratitude, and let them know the specific ways they’ve made a difference. Tune in, and learn why giving credit is a leadership superpower that you can use every day.

                  Links Mentioned in the Episode:
                  • Influence Every Day Podcast Episodes
                  • Join the Influence Book Club
                  • Subscribe & Leave a Review

                    If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

                    14 min
                  • 031 Sometimes Actions Think Louder Than Thoughts
                    Episode 031 - Sometimes…Actions Think Louder Than Thoughts
                    The Influence Every Day Show with Dr. Ed Tori
                    Episode Overview:

                    In this episode, Dr. Ed Tori dives into an unconventional but powerful perspective on change: that actions can shape our thoughts, sometimes more profoundly than the reverse. While many self-help messages focus on shifting our mindset to drive behavior, Dr. Tori explores the overlooked approach of using action as a catalyst for internal transformation. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Amy Cuddy, William James, and Robert Cialdini, this episode reveals why small, intentional actions may be the key to lasting growth in influence, leadership, and personal development.

                    What You’ll Learn:
                    • The Power of Action-Driven Change: Discover why shifting your actions can have a ripple effect on your thoughts, emotions, and even beliefs, challenging the traditional “thoughts-first” approach.
                    • Key Influence Insights: Learn from research and insights on how commitment and consistency influence belief formation (Leon Festinger), the role of body language in state management, and the science behind power poses.
                    • Practical Application: Get a glimpse into Dr. Tori’s Influence Book Club, a community designed to help people transform insights from top influence and communication books into real, practiced skills.  Practical Tools for State Management: Explore Dr. Tori’s resource, “101 Ways to Manage Your State,” which provides actionable strategies to help you take control of your mental and emotional state. Access it at DrTori.com/101.
                    • Action as Habit-Building: Understand Aristotle’s wisdom on habit and excellence—why repeated behaviors define us more than occasional good intentions.
                    • Memorable Quotes:
                      • “Sometimes, action thinks louder than thoughts.”
                      • “If you want to change your life, don’t wait for your mindset to shift. Start with the action, and let your thoughts catch up.”
                      • “We become what we think, yes—but also what we repeatedly do.”
                      • Key Takeaways:
                        • Embrace the Behavior-First Approach: By changing your actions, you can influence your mental and emotional state in powerful ways. Smiling, adopting power poses, and managing your body language can change how you feel, not just how others see you.
                        • Consistency Builds Commitment: As seen in Festinger’s theory of cognitive dissonance, our actions often strengthen our beliefs and commitment. Taking even small steps in a particular direction can align our mindset over time.
                        • Join a Like-Minded Community: In the Influence Book Club, Dr. Tori not only helps others grow in their influence skills but puts action at the forefront, ensuring that members implement what they learn to create lasting impact in their communication and relationships.
                        • Connect With the Influence Community:

                          If you’re ready to dive deeper into actionable influence skills, join the Influence Book Club at InfluenceBookClub.com. Be part of a community that translates knowledge into impactful behaviors, transforming influence from theory to practice.

                          Listener Challenge:

                          Think of one small action you can take today to influence your mindset. Strike a power pose, put on a smile, or take one step toward a long-term goal. Notice the shift that a single behavior can have on your thoughts and emotions.

                          Don’t Forget to Rate and Share!

                          If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs a boost in influence. Every recommendation helps grow our community of people committed to influencing for good.

                          14 min
                        • 030 Don't Work The Room - Do This Instead
                          Episode 030: Networking - Don’t Work the Room, Do This Instead

                          Welcome back to The Influence Every Day Show with Dr. Ed Tori! In this episode, Dr. Tori breaks down the common misconception of “working the room” at networking events and shares his refreshing, service-oriented approach instead. He recalls a conversation with a colleague who admired his networking skills but was surprised when Dr. Tori revealed that he doesn’t actually work the room—he serves it.

                          Instead of focusing on what he can gain, Dr. Tori looks for people who are uncomfortable and makes it his mission to help them feel at ease. This mindset of genuine service creates natural, meaningful connections and builds rapport effortlessly.

                          Dr. Tori also delves into the concept of “hypnotic gifts” from the world of conversational hypnotherapy, showing how small, intentional interactions can spark life-changing moments for others. By gamifying his approach to serving others, Dr. Tori turns every interaction—whether at a networking event, in line at the grocery store, or at the dinner table—into an opportunity to practice and improve his influence skills.

                          Key Takeaways:
                          • Serve, Don’t Network: The key difference is intent—focus on helping others without expecting anything in return.
                          •  Look for the Uncomfortable: Seek out people who feel out of place and make it your mission to make them feel comfortable.
                          •  Gamify Your Influence: Approach every interaction as an opportunity to practice and improve your influence skills.
                          •  Give Hypnotic Gifts: Leave people with something valuable—an idea, a frame, or a question that can transform their perspective or life.
                          • This episode will shift the way you think about networking and leave you with actionable strategies to create meaningful connections while elevating your influence. Next time you’re at a networking event, don’t ask yourself, “Who can benefit me?” Instead, ask, “Who can I serve?”

                            Resources Mentioned:
                            • Check out The Influence Playbook membership for leveling up your influence skills: InfluenceBookClub.com
                            • Pay It Forward

                              Enjoyed today’s episode? Share it with someone who needs to hear this! Don’t forget to rate and review The Influence Every Day Show. Your feedback helps us reach and influence more people for good.

                              Now, go out and influence for good—every day.

                              10 min
                            • 029 If You Want To Be Engaging... Bounce
                              Episode 029: If You Want To Be Engaging… Bounce
                              The Influence Every Day Show with Dr. Ed Tori

                              In this episode of The Influence Every Day Show, Dr. Ed Tori reveals a powerful technique to keep your audience engaged, whether you're giving a keynote, leading a meeting, or having a one-on-one conversation: bouncing.

                              Based on his decades of experience in influence and communication, Dr. Tori explains how varying your pace, tone, stories, and emotional energy can make time fly for your audience—leaving them captivated and wanting more.

                              Drawing insights from a recent talk at the Lesher Center for the Arts, where public speakers praised his ability to shift from calm storytelling to rapid-fire slides, Dr. Tori explains how bouncing between different emotional and intellectual spaces can create an unforgettable experience.

                              Key Takeaways:
                              • The Power of Bouncing: Engaging speakers shift between emotional, energetic, and even physical spaces, creating dynamic experiences for their audiences.
                              • Varying Your Pace: High energy isn't the only tool. Shifting between high energy and calm moments, fast speech and pauses, keeps people hooked.
                              • Storytelling Mastery: Varying the stories you tell and the emotions your audience experiences within those stories enhances engagement.
                              • Engagement vs. Predictability: When your audience knows what’s coming next, their attention drifts. Keep them engaged by breaking predictable patterns.
                              • Influence Everywhere: Whether you’re speaking on stage, leading a virtual presentation, or having a casual conversation, bouncing is a surefire way to captivate your listeners.
                              • If you’ve ever struggled to keep people engaged, this episode will help you break free from the monotony and turn every conversation or presentation into a dynamic experience. Dr. Tori also touches on professional insights for public speakers and storytellers, referencing a mini-course he created for his Capstone students (DrTori.com/capstone) and how professionals can make their presentations memorable.

                                Additional Resources:
                                • Influence Book Club: Learn the most impactful lessons from the best books on influence and communication. Join the community today!
                                • Connect with Dr. Tori: DM him on social channels or reach out through AskDrTori.com If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to share it, leave a review, and check out the additional
                                • 11 min
                                • 028 Parents Crying in the Hair Salon - Wait... What?!
                                  Episode 028: Parents Crying in the Hair Salon – Wait... What?!
                                  The Influence Every Day Show with Dr. Ed Tori

                                  In this compelling episode, Dr. Tori dives deep into an unexpected revelation shared by a hairdresser: parents are increasingly shedding tears while watching their children in the hairdresser’s chair. What’s causing these tears? The answer may surprise you: it’s not the haircut—it’s the rare moment of uninterrupted eye contact between parent and child.

                                  Dr. Tori explores the profound implications of this moment, especially in a world where digital devices dominate our attention. He shares insights on how technology has shifted not just our work but also our relationships, and how we can combat the disconnection it creates by being deliberate in our interactions.

                                  Key Takeaways:
                                  • Small talk as a powerful tool: How a simple analogy of a hallway full of doors can transform your conversations.
                                  • Hairdressers and barbers as master conversationalists: Discover how their environment lends itself to deep human connection.
                                  • The heartbreaking reason parents are crying: A shift in family dynamics caused by the omnipresence of screens and the lost art of eye contact.
                                  • Technology’s impact on relationships: Learn why it’s essential to be intentional with our communication in an age of scrolling and distractions.
                                  • The power of deliberate listening: How to recognize conversation gateways and avoid missing crucial moments with loved ones.
                                  • Memorable Quote:
                                    "In the midst of a sea of rapid change, we should get really good at what doesn’t change—how to influence others, how to build rapport, and how to cultivate deep relationships with those who matter most."
                                    Action Step:

                                    Take a moment today to put down your device and make meaningful eye contact with someone you care about. Be deliberate in your conversations and listen with intention.

                                    ---

                                    Support the Show:

                                    If you found this episode impactful, share it with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, the Influence Every Day podcast is free, and we don’t run ads. Your support in spreading the word helps us continue sharing this message and influencing for good.

                                    Learn More:

                                    Want to master influence and communication? Dr. Tori has already distilled the best lessons for you. Join the *Influence Book Club* and take your skills to the next level! Check it out at [InfluenceBookClub.com].

                                    Check out Dr. Tori's explanation of TING (the Chinese word "to listen") - just look at the symbol, it will change your interactions... maybe forever. [DrTori.com/ting]

                                    Rate & Review:

                                    Love the show? Please take a moment to rate and review it. Your feedback helps us reach more people and continue to share valuable insights.

                                    ---

                                    Go forth and influence for good. Every day.

                                    11 min
                                  • 027 How A Crime Scene Can Transform Your Relationships
                                    How a Crime Scene Can Transform Your Relationships

                                    Host: Dr. Ed Tori
                                    Podcast: Influence Every Day
                                    Episode: 027

                                    Episode Summary:

                                    In this episode, Dr. Ed Tori explores how a key forensic principle—Locard's Principle, also known as the "exchange principle"—can radically change the way we view our relationships. Locard's Principle teaches that "every contact leaves a trace," a concept used in solving crimes, but Dr. Tori applies it to our everyday interactions. Whether you're at home, at work, or in your community, every interaction leaves an emotional or psychological trace on the people around you.

                                    Dr. Tori breaks down how positive and negative traces build over time, shaping the "body of evidence" that defines your relationships. He challenges listeners to "stop winging it" and start being more intentional with their interactions, noting that even small moments can have lasting impact. From acts of kindness to handling conflicts with care, how you "clean up" the emotional debris left behind matters deeply in maintaining healthy relationships.

                                    ---

                                    Key Takeaways:
                                    • Every contact leaves a trace: Much like forensic evidence at a crime scene, every interaction—whether positive or negative—leaves an emotional and psychological imprint.
                                    • Emotional debris: Negative interactions, such as conflict, anger, or dishonesty, leave behind emotional debris that accumulates over time if not addressed. How you clean up this debris, through apologies and behavioral change, is crucial to the health of relationships.
                                    • Positive traces: Acts of kindness, active listening, and creating environments of psychological safety leave behind positive traces that build trust and connection.
                                    • Intentional interactions: Stop winging it! Be deliberate about the traces you leave behind in your relationships, at work, and in your community. Every moment is an opportunity to leave a lasting, positive impact.
                                    • Building a body of evidence: Over time, your actions contribute to a "body of evidence" that defines your character in the eyes of others. What kind of evidence are you leaving behind?
                                    • ---

                                      Memorable Quotes:
                                      • "Every contact leaves a trace. Will that change how you behave at work, at home, or in your community?"
                                      • "We're leaving emotional and psychological traces, often without even realizing it."
                                      • "Negative interactions leave behind emotional debris. Are you cleaning it up, or piling more onto the mess?"
                                      • "Your relationships are too important to wing it. Be intentional about the traces you leave behind."
                                      • ---

                                        Actionable Tips:
                                        1. Reflect on the emotional traces you're leaving in your daily interactions. Are they positive or negative
                                        2. Repair any negative traces by apologizing sincerely and changing your behavior moving forward.
                                        3. Be intentional with your next interaction—whether it’s at work, with family, or in public—what kind of trace will you leave behind?
                                        4. Build positive evidence: Create an environment of psychological safety, actively listen, and perform small acts of kindness to strengthen your relationships.
                                        5. ---

                                          Resources:
                                          • Learn more about influence and communication at Dr. Tori's Influence Book Club: InfluenceBookClub.com
                                          • Explore Dr. Tori's resources on becoming more intentional in your interactions: DrTori.com
                                          •  

                                             

                                            00:00 Introduction to Locard's Principle

                                            01:01 Applying Locard's Principle to Daily Interactions

                                            01:46 Unseen Traces in Our Interactions

                                            03:49 Negative Interactions and Emotional Debris

                                            05:33 Positive Interactions and Building Evidence

                                            07:39 The Impact of Media and Environment

                                            08:24 Conclusion: Be Intentional with Your Interactions

                                            11 min
                                          • 026 Influence Is Inert, But It's Never Neutral
                                            Influence Every Day - Episode 026: Influence is Inert, But It's Never Neutral

                                            Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Ed Tori delves into the often misunderstood concept of influence, challenging the common perception that intentional influence is inherently manipulative or deceitful. Drawing from over 20 years of studying influence across various domains, Dr. Tori argues that influence itself is a neutral tool, neither good nor bad, but it’s never neutral in its effects. He emphasizes the moral duty to influence others deliberately for the greater good, especially in roles such as parents, teachers, healthcare providers, and community leaders.

                                            Key Takeaways:

                                            • Influence as a Tool: Influence is inherently neutral, but how it’s used determines its ethical standing. It can be wielded for good or for ill, but it’s never passive—every action or inaction has an influence.
                                            • The Social Contract: Dr. Tori explains that ethical influence aligns with the social contract inherent in roles like parenting, teaching, and healthcare. Violating this contract, whether through deceit or self-serving intentions, crosses the line into manipulation.
                                            • Intentional Influence: To counteract the pervasive influence of powerful industries like fast food, tobacco, and entertainment, those who aim to do good must be equally deliberate in their influence efforts. Being intentional, rather than “winging it,” is crucial.
                                            • Call to Action: Dr. Tori urges listeners to embrace their duty to influence positively, whether in personal relationships, professional roles, or broader societal interactions. He stresses the importance of deliberate, thoughtful influence in everyday actions.
                                            • Discussion Points:

                                              • The ethical dilemmas surrounding influence and the common objections people have.
                                              • How influence has the power to improve all aspects of relationships when applied ethically.
                                              • The responsibility of influence in various roles—whether as a parent, teacher, or leader—and how it must align with the social contract.
                                              • The contrast between the deliberate, well-funded influence of industries and the often unintentional influence exerted by individuals.
                                              • Quotes from the Episode:

                                                • "Influence is inert, meaning it is neither good nor bad. It's a tool, and you can use it for good, and you can use it for bad. But here's the thing—it's never neutral."
                                                • "You have a duty to influence. And so, stop winging it. Be deliberate and serve. Influence for good."
                                                • Actionable Advice:

                                                  • Reflect on the roles you play in life and the inherent social contracts associated with them.
                                                  • Commit to being deliberate in your influence, whether in personal conversations, professional interactions, or public communications.
                                                  • Consider the broader impact of your influence—are you countering the negative influences of large industries or inadvertently allowing them to win?
                                                  • 00:00 Introduction: The Influence Problem

                                                    00:28 Personal Journey: Discovering the Power of Influence

                                                    01:41 The Dark Side of Influence

                                                    02:37 The Duty to Influence Positively

                                                    03:31 Influence is Never Neutral

                                                    04:18 The Social Contract and Ethical Boundaries

                                                    08:14 The Importance of Intentional Influence

                                                    10:11 Conclusion: Be Deliberate, Influence for Good

                                                    13 min
                                                  • 025 Your Planning is More Important Than Your Plan
                                                    Your Planning is More Important Than Your Plan

                                                    Episode Summary:

                                                    In this episode of the Influence Every Day show, Dr. Ed Tori dives into the critical difference between having a plan and the act of planning. Inspired by famous quotes from Mike Tyson and Prussian Field Marshal Helmut von Moltke, Dr. Tori explores why plans often fail when they meet reality, and why planning— the ongoing process of adapting and adjusting— is where true success lies.

                                                    Through relatable examples from first responders, difficult conversations, and dynamic environments, Dr. Tori emphasizes that the real value is in the process of preparing, not just in having a plan. Whether it’s managing an emergency, navigating a tough discussion, or dealing with complex organizations, it’s the continuous process of planning that primes us for success.

                                                    Key Takeaways:

                                                    Planning vs. Plans: Planning is an active, dynamic process that prepares you for what you’re about to face. Plans are static and need continuous assessment and adjustment.

                                                    The Power of Priming: In influence and communication, planning acts as priming. It prepares your mindset, physiology, and skillset for the dynamic and nuanced situations you will encounter.

                                                    Scenario-Based Training: Just like first responders, practicing different scenarios prepares you for unexpected outcomes, helping you to respond effectively under pressure.

                                                    Emotional and Sensory Preparation: Planning includes preparing emotionally and sensorially for various outcomes. Visualization and emotional anchoring can help you remain adaptable and maintain a healthy response.

                                                    Embrace Flexibility: Focus less on perfecting your plans and more on building the ability to adapt in real time. A flexible mindset allows you to navigate dynamic situations without being derailed by unexpected changes.

                                                    Actionable Insights:
                                                    • Engage in Scenario-Based Training: Regularly practice different scenarios to improve your adaptability in real-life situations.
                                                    • Visualize Success and Challenges: Use visualization to prime yourself for different emotional and sensory experiences you might face.
                                                    • Embrace the Planning Process: Spend more time planning and less time perfecting static plans. Be prepared to adjust and adapt on the fly.
                                                    •  

                                                      00:00 Introduction: Mike Tyson's Famous Quote

                                                      00:36 Contradictory Sayings: Planning vs. Reality

                                                      01:23 The Importance of Planning as a Verb

                                                      02:14 Dynamic Nature of Plans

                                                      03:43 First Responders and Dynamic Situations

                                                      04:27 Difficult Conversations: Plans vs. Planning

                                                      05:33 Scenario-Based Training and Emotional Preparation

                                                      07:27 Conclusion: Focus on Adaptability

                                                      10 min

                                                    About Influence Every Day

                                                    From the publisher's feed

                                                    Do you want to get to the next level in your communication? To turn everyday moments into impactful and unforgettable change agents? The Influence Every Day Show is for you if you're ready to level up…