In this episode of Unleash Your Impact, Unlock Others, Rich and Dave explore five common communication mistakes that quietly derail leadership impact. Despite endless tools and channels, teams still point to communication as the number one problem that impacts productivity and efficiency.

Why is communication so hard? And why do good intentions so often get lost in translation?

Drawing on real examples from coaching, mediation, and organisational life, Rich and Dave unpack how these communication “false steps” show up in human interactions and that it is not dependent on any one personality type. From filling silence because of social anxiety to assuming shared meaning because of language shortcuts. Thery explore how leaders can become more conscious, more intentional, and ultimately more influential.

The conversation offers grounded, practical guidance on listening, context-setting, adapting to different thinking styles, and handling difficult conversations. Through stories, metaphors, and honest reflection, they outline how small shifts can dramatically improve respect, trust, and positive influence in everyday leadership.

This episode is a practical guide for leaders who want to build better relationships, reduce misunderstanding, and communicate with clarity and confidence.

Key Talking Points

• Why communication faux pas remain common despite more tools and channels
• Mistake 1: Talking too much and filling silence (social anxiety, ego, or habit)
• Mistake 2: Not really listening (distraction, “squirrels,” and lack of intentionality)
• Mistake 3: Assuming shared understanding and skipping context
• Mistake 4: Communicating through your own thinking style rather than adapting to others
• Mistake 5: Avoiding difficult conversations and why we do it!