Learn how leaders can improve listening skills, gather better intelligence, and communicate more effectively in high impact conversations.

In this episode, Michael Reddington explores a surprising challenge many leaders face. The more successful, experienced, and knowledgeable we become, the harder it can be to truly listen.

Senior leaders and technical experts often feel pressure to solve problems quickly. That pressure can push us into validation mode instead of learning mode. Instead of listening for new information, we start listening for the first opportunity to prove we are right, defend our ideas, or move the conversation forward faster.

Michael explains why our brains are naturally wired to seek comfort and confirmation, and how that tendency can prevent us from gathering valuable intelligence during important conversations.

You will learn practical techniques to improve your listening immediately, including how to elevate your outcomes, reduce internal distractions, relinquish control of conversations, and create space for others to share meaningful information. Michael also explains why excuses can actually reveal important truths and how leaders can use patience and curiosity to uncover the real issues behind problems.

These strategies help leaders gather better intelligence, strengthen relationships, and improve decision making in high impact conversations.

Chapters

1. 00:00 Why successful leaders often struggle to listen
2. 01:35 How expertise and experience create communication barriers
3. 03:32 The real reasons we listen in conversations
4. 05:38 Why the human brain is not wired for great listening
5. 07:05 Elevating outcomes and expectations to improve listening
6. 10:23 Why the person with the information controls the conversation
7. 12:02 Staying in a learning mindset and allowing yourself to be surprised
8. 13:30 Limiting internal monologue to capture the full message
9. 16:00 Recognizing emotional triggers and regaining focus
10. 18:09 Why time pressure is the enemy of empathy
11. 20:04 Leading to your expertise instead of leading with it
12. 22:19 Why patience is one of the most valuable listening skills
13. 23:35 Why excuses can reveal valuable truths in conversations
14. 27:45 Key takeaways for leaders looking to improve their listening

Resources

1. The Disciplined Listening Method by Michael Reddington
2. Connect with Michael Reddington
3. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelreddington/

Sponsors

1. InQuasive:http://www.inquasive.com/
2. Humintell: https://www.humintell.com/
3. Enter code INQUASIVE25 for 25% off online training.
4. International Association of Interviewers
5. https://www.certifiedinterviewer.com/

Podcast Production Services

https://everyword.media