Show Notes
Most people think communication is about sounding smart. But what if the real secret is learning how to make people feel heard?
In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Deborah Riegel, executive coach, leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, and author for a powerful conversation about confidence, difficult conversations, emotional intelligence, and the communication skills nobody teaches you in school.
This episode is packed with practical advice that can completely transform the way you lead, connect, and communicate.
We talk about why people struggle with feedback, how to become a better listener, why curiosity changes conversations, and the small communication habits that can strengthen relationships both personally and professionally.
If you’ve ever overthought a difficult conversation, struggled to express yourself clearly, or wanted to communicate with more confidence and authenticity this episode is for you.
Because great communication isn’t about perfection.
What You’ll Learn: • Why communication starts with listening, not speaking • How curiosity can transform difficult conversations • The biggest mistakes people make when giving feedback • Why emotional intelligence matters more than ever • How to communicate with more confidence and clarity • The difference between reacting and responding • Practical tools for stronger relationships and leadership
Who Is Deborah Riegel? Deborah Riegel is a leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, executive coach, and educator who helps individuals and organisations improve how they communicate, lead, and connect with others.
She is known for her work on feedback, communication strategy, emotional intelligence, and leadership development.
You can find Deb through her books, speaking engagements, workshops, LinkedIn, and professional coaching platforms.
In this episode: 00:00 – Welcome 02:12 – Why Communication Is More Than Words 05:30 – The Biggest Communication Mistakes People Make 09:18 – Listening vs Waiting to Speak 13:42 – How Curiosity Changes Conversations 17:50 – Why Feedback Feels So Personal 22:14 – Difficult Conversations at Work & In Life 27:08 – Emotional Intelligence & Leadership 31:45 – Confidence in Communication 36:20 – Responding Instead of Reacting 40:06 – The Power of Empathy 44:18 – Advice for Young Professionals 47:42 – Deb’s Definition of Success 50:00 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways
If this episode made you think differently about communication, leadership, or relationships, share it with someone who needs to hear it.
Subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for conversations with world-class experts, authors, and leaders.
And next time you walk into a conversation:
Listen fully. Lead with curiosity. And remember, people may forget your words, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.
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