July 10, 2025

Matthew Kohut: Why Your Open Door Policy Isn't Enough

32 minutes

What makes some leaders magnetic while others struggle to connect? On this riveting episode of Mick Unplugged, communication expert Matt Kohut reveals the surprising secret shared by presidential candidates, Fortune 500 CEOs, and influential speakers he's coached: they're exceptional listeners first, compelling speakers second.

Matt breaks down his powerful framework of "strength and warmth" that defines effective leadership communication. Strength—the capability to get things done through competence and assertiveness—must be balanced with warmth—the ability to show you understand others' needs and emotions. Every leader naturally leans toward one quality, but mastering both creates an unbeatable leadership presence. Through practical examples, Matt demonstrates how finding the right balance for your specific context can transform your leadership impact.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Matt discusses his new book "Speaking Out," exploring when and how corporate leaders should address political and social issues—a modern leadership challenge unheard of in previous generations. He provides a thoughtful framework for navigating these potentially treacherous waters, grounding decisions in organizational values while considering both internal and external stakeholders.

Matt and Mick challenge outdated leadership clichés, dismantling the "open door policy" myth (truly present leaders don't need to announce their accessibility) and warning against using complex language that creates distance rather than connection. The most powerful insight? Informal conversations—whether over coffee, meals, or breaks—create the authentic connections that drive organizational success, yet many leaders fail to prioritize these critical moments.

Whether you're leading a team of five or five thousand, this conversation delivers actionable strategies to transform how you communicate during chaos, build trust through genuine listening, and speak with the perfect balance of strength and warmth that today's leadership demands.

Connect & Discover Matthew:

Website: https://www.matthewkohut.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kohut-00b64b4/

X: https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2FMatthew_Kohut

Substack: https://matthewkohut.substack.com/

Book: Speaking Out: The New Rules of Business Leadership Communication

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