Talk About Talk - Executive & Leadership Communication Skills - podcast cover

Talk About Talk - Executive & Leadership Communication Skills

Dr. Andrea Wojnickiwww.talkabouttalk.com
Ready to improve your communication skills? Dr. Andrea Wojnicki is a Harvard-educated executive communication coach whose research focuses on interpersonal communication and consumer psychology. Learn the communication mindsets and tactics that will help you accelerate your career trajectory. Based on her research and guest interviews, Andrea will coach you on topics including: • overcoming imposter syndrome & communicating with confidence • developing executive presence & leadership skills • using AI to help your communication • communicating with precision • personal branding • storytelling • how to Introduce yourself and more! Focusing on your COMMUNICATION SKILLS means elevating your confidence, your clarity, your credibility, and ultimately your impact. Subscribe to the Talk About Talk podcast and don’t forget to sign up for the free communication skills newsletter – it’s free communication skills coaching in your email inbox!
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Episodes

Oversharing: “Revealing” with Harvard Business School Professor Leslie John (ep.211)

How much should you share at work? How personal can you get? What’s ok and what’s off-limits? This question of what to reveal at work is exactly what Harvard Business School Professor Leslie John addresses in her book Revealing: The Underrated Power of Oversharing . Listen to learn the psychology behind why we conceal, a practical framework for deciding when to reveal, and what to do if you find yourself crying in a meeting. We also talk about emotional literacy and what it means that so many hi...

Apr 27, 202645 min

Executive Presence LIVE TRAINING: 5 Ways to Boost Your Leadership Presence” (ep. 210)

Have you ever been told you need to work on your “executive presence” and walked away thinking, what does that even mean? In this Talk About Talk episode, you’re getting a front-row seat to one of Dr. Andrea Wojnicki’s live training sessions. Andrea reframes the way we think about executive presence, calling it what it really is: leadership presence, and shares five concrete strategies to help you build it. You’ll also hear live Q&A from the audience on everything from dressing for presence,...

Apr 13, 202654 min

How to Lead ENGAGING MEETINGS Where People Actually Pay Attention (ep. 209)

Ever led a meeting where no one seemed engaged? Don’t blame your agenda or your slides. Fix your opener! In this Talk About Talk episode, Dr. Andrea Wojnicki shares three specific techniques you can use to open any meeting in a way that gets people engaged immediately and keeps their attention the whole time. No extra storytelling required. CONNECT WITH ANDREA 🌐 Website: https://talkabouttalk.com/ 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ ✉️ Andrea’s Email Newsletter: https://www...

Mar 30, 202612 min

What 40 Years at McDonald’s Taught One CEO About COMMUNICATION and LEADERSHIP – with Michèle Boudria (ep. 208)

“Do not mistake my KINDNESS for WEAKNESS.” What does it take to go from working front cash at McDonald’s to becoming its CEO? Michèle Boudria, Board Director and Former CEO of McDonald’s Canada, spent four decades figuring it out, and in this episode, she’s sharing everything. Michèle shares her insights, all in the name of creating “a virtuous cycle of high performance”: a relentless focus on feedback, next-level networking, curiosity, and an authentic, people-first leadership style. This one i...

Mar 16, 202639 min

Rethinking Executive Presence: How to Show Up with Real LEADERSHIP PRESENCE (ep. 207)

“You need to demonstrate executive presence.” What exactly does that actually mean? And why does it feel like code for “be someone you’re not”? In this Talk About Talk episode, Dr. Andrea Wojnicki shares why the term “executive presence” isn’t ideal, and how “leadership presence” should replace it. She also shares a “Leadership Presence Hierarchy” framework that highlights what specific skills you need to work on. DOWNLOAD THE FRAMEWORK NOW at: https://www.talkabouttalk.com/leadershippresence Ch...

Mar 02, 202616 min

Dealing with Difficult People at Work – Part 2 (ep.206)

You know the person: they derail meetings, push back on everything, and somehow make simple projects complicated. So how do you actually handle it without losing your mind? In this Talk About Talk episode, Dr. Andrea Wojnicki walks you through exactly what to do when you’re dealing with difficult people at work, whether that’s a customer, a direct report, a peer, or even your boss. If you’re wondering when and how to escalate the situation, Andrea’s five-step escalation sequence provides you wit...

Feb 16, 202619 min

Dealing with Difficult People at Work – Part 1 (ep.205)

If you’re dealing with a difficult person at work, this episode will help you handle it. Dr. Andrea Wojnicki shares a simple mindset shift that will help you feel empowered, plus a 5 word mantra that changes everything. Andrea shares a real client story about a newly promoted partner who was being undermined by a colleague, and how this simple mindset shift completely transformed her experience. You’ll also learn the S.C.A.R.F. Framework, a powerful diagnostic tool created by Dr. David Rock. Thi...

Feb 02, 202612 min

New Year, New You… REALLY?!? Personal Brand Training (ep.204)

New year, new you. What does that actually mean? Dr. Andrea Wojnicki makes it clear: it’s not about reinventing yourself or becoming someone you’re not. It’s about rediscovering your strengths, elevating your best self, and defining a professional identity that helps you achieve your career goals in 2026 and beyond. In this episode, Andrea shares a powerful personal brand training session that walks you through three critical questions designed to reveal what your authentic professional brand sh...

Jan 19, 202658 min

Personal Branding for WOMEN Leaders (ep.203)

Your work doesn’t speak for itself. If you’re a woman leader who works hard but feels invisible when promotions are discussed, this episode is for you. Dr. Andrea Wojnicki delivers a powerful training on personal branding specifically designed for women. You will learn the three ways that branding is different for women, why “my work speaks for itself” is holding you back, and exactly what to do about it. This isn’t about becoming a social media influencer. This is about taking strategic control...

Jan 05, 202651 min

The RIPPLE Effect: NETWORKING for Success with Baron Manett, Shelagh Paul, and David Tsubouchi (ep.202)

When it comes to networking, your strongest professional relationships are the ones you build long before you expect to need them. Learn from 3 accomplished leaders who know how the ripple effect works in real life. You will hear insights from BARON MANETT , Founder and Chief Experience Officer at PSBX, SHELAGH PAUL , Head of Global Communications at OMERS, and THE HONOURABLE DAVID TSUBOUCHI , former Ontario Cabinet Minister. They all contributed to the book “The Ripple Effect: Networking for Su...

Dec 08, 202541 min

How to Craft an Out-of-Office Message That Reinforces Your Leadership Brand (ep. 201)

Your out-of-office email response is an easy and effective way to communicate who you are as a leader. In this short episode, communication coach Dr. Andrea Wojnicki explains how to craft your OOO email response to reinforce your professional identity. You’ll also learn the four do’s and don’ts: be specific about dates and coverage, be consistent while you’re away, show personality without sarcasm, and don’t overshare. Listen for practical examples you can copy in minutes and start using today. ...

Nov 24, 20259 min

Top 3 Communication Skills of Exceptional Leaders (ep. 200)

What makes the most successful leaders stand out? The way they communicate. In this special 200th episode, communication coach Dr. Andrea Wojnicki shares the three ways that leaders communicate differently based on years of executive coaching, workshops, and research. You’ll learn how to: ✔️ Shift from “speaking up” to communicating with intent and precision ✔️ Practice next-level listening to understand, not just respond ✔️ Project confidence and credibility while staying humble and growth-orie...

Nov 10, 202513 min

5 Ways to Graciously EXIT a Networking Conversation (ep.199)

Ever been stuck in a conversation at a networking event that feels a little too long? You’re not alone. In this short, practical episode, communication coach Dr. Andrea Wojnicki shares five graceful ways to exit a conversation politely without burning bridges. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✔️ How to transition smoothly by connecting people with someone else ✔️ Why the “food and drink” excuse still works (when used well) ✔️ How to tell someone you want to meet other people and still sound profes...

Oct 27, 20259 min

How to Become a Bold, ASSERTIVE Communicator | Ivna Curi (ep. 198)

How do you speak up with confidence without sounding aggressive? Leadership coach and TEDx speaker Ivna Curi shares how to find the balance between boldness and respect so your message lands with influence. In this episode, you will learn: ✔️ The important difference between aggression and assertiveness (hint: you want to be assertive!) ✔️ How the DESO framework helps you handle hard conversations ✔️ When apologetic language undermines credibility and when it builds trust ✔️ Ivna’s personal stor...

Oct 13, 202543 min

Steve Jobs, Jeff Bezos & the Secret to Unforgettable Communication | Carmine Gallo (ep. 197)

How do top leaders captivate audiences and drive action? Carmine Gallo distills the communication habits behind Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos into practical moves you can use right away. From minimalist slides to memo-driven meetings, and from relatable stories to memorable metaphors, this episode shows how to simplify, persuade, and be heard. In this episode, you will learn: ✔️ Why simplicity signals confidence and increases retention ✔️ How to wrap data in a narrative so people care and remember ✔...

Sep 29, 202550 min

Answers to Your Burning COMMUNICATION Questions | Q&A with Dr. Andrea Wojnicki (ep.196)

What questions do ambitious professionals ask to help them improve their communication? In this special Q&A episode, Andrea answers listener questions on imposter syndrome, brain fog, elevator pitches, and executive presence. In this episode, you will learn: ✔️ Why imposter syndrome is common and how to reframe it as a strength ✔️ How frameworks like “Present, Past, Future” and the “Power of Three” can help when you are not at your best ✔️ Why rehearsed elevator pitches fail and what to say ...

Sep 15, 202527 min

7 Ways to NETWORK with Grace | The Honourable Marie-P. Charette-Poulin (ep.195)

What does it take to build a strong network? The Honourable Marie-P. Charette-Poulin shares the networking strategies that built her career across decades of leadership in broadcasting, law, public service, and politics. She also reveals her “7 Rules of Networking,” principles rooted in service and respect that apply to both career and life. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✔️Why true networking is about others, not yourself ✔️Why handwritten notes and business cards still carry weight today ✔️ Ho...

Sep 02, 202539 min

Women: Get on BOARD with Deborah Rosati (ep.194)

What does it take to earn a board seat and influence what happens once you’re in the room? Award-winning corporate director Deborah Rosati shares what she’s learned from over two decades in the boardroom. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✔️ How to show up with presence without dominating the room ✔️ How the W.A.I.T. acronym can elevate your boardroom presence ✔️ A strategic approach to finding (and exiting) the right board roles ✔️ How women can build credibility even as the only one in the room D...

Aug 19, 202544 min

AI PROMPTING Secrets You’ve Never Heard | Jonathan Mast (ep.193)

What if using AI could make you a better communicator without making you sound like a robot? In this episode, executive communication coach Dr. Andrea Wojnicki sits down with AI strategist Jonathan Mast to reveal a 4-step framework that helps leaders use AI effectively without losing their voice or their edge. From writing difficult emails to brainstorming, summarizing data, or prepping keynotes, Jonathan’s framework empowers you to collaborate with AI like a pro. You’ll learn how to prompt like...

Aug 05, 202536 min

The #1 NETWORKING Mistake Smart Professionals Make—and How to Fix It with Shelly Lombard (ep.192)

Think networking means being transactional or self-promotional? Think again. Shelly Lombard, former Wall Street analyst and founder of Schmooze, shares her playbook for building a strategic network without feeling fake. You’ll learn how to reconnect with weak ties, build visibility on LinkedIn, and follow up in a way that feels natural, not awkward. Ready to speak up, stand out, and lead with gravitas? Join my 6-week Women’s Personal Branding Masterclass, starting Oct 15. Register by Aug. 15 and...

Jul 22, 202550 min

BODY LANGUAGE, a Matter of Survival – with Expert Mark Bowden (ep.191)

What is your body saying when you’re not speaking, and how could it be holding you back? In this episode, world-renowned body language expert Mark Bowden explains how nonverbal signals impact trust, credibility, and executive presence. Discover how our brains instinctively scan for safety cues, and why understanding body language is critical for anyone who leads, presents, or communicates under pressure. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: TalkAboutTalk.com LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/i...

Jul 08, 202558 min

New Strategies to Overcome IMPOSTER SYNDROME with Kim Meninger (ep.190)

Feeling like a fraud? You’re not alone. In this episode, Dr. Andrea Wojnicki and Kim Meninger explore the roots of imposter syndrome and share actionable strategies to move through it with courage, clarity, and impact. Learn how to lead more inclusive meetings, build authentic confidence, and reframe self-promotion as a meaningful contribution. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: TalkAboutTalk.com LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn Talk About Talk: https://www.linke...

Jun 24, 2025

Gender Bias and Communication in the Workplace: 6 GLASS WALLS with Dr. Amy Diehl (ep. 189)

You’ve heard of the glass ceiling, but what about the glass walls? Dr. Andrea Wojnicki speaks with Dr. Amy Diehl, co-author of Glass Walls, about six subtle yet powerful gender bias barriers still limiting women at work. Learn how these biases show up in communication in the workplace and what individuals and leaders can do to recognize and dismantle them. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: TalkAboutTalk.com LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn Talk About Talk: https...

Jun 10, 202550 min

How to Use AI to Improve Your COMMUNICATION (ep.188)

Are you ready to go beyond the basics with AI? If you’re only using it for simple tasks, it’s time to level up. Andrea shares three powerful strategies that move past the fundamentals to elevate your communication, deepen your audience connection, and help you integrate AI seamlessly into your workflow. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: TalkAboutTalk.com LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn Talk About Talk: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talkabouttalk/ Newsletter:...

May 27, 202513 min

10 Bad Communication Habits That Undermine Your CREDIBILITY (ep. 187)

Bad habits in your communication, like apologetic language, upspeak, and jargon overload, can undermine your credibility. Dr. Andrea Wojnicki shares fixes for 10 bad habits so you can start communicating with confidence and credibility. Get the free “Bad Habits” download : https://www.talkabouttalk.com/badhabits CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: http://talkabouttalk.com/ LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn – Talk About Talk: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talkabo...

May 13, 2025

Elevate Your ELEVATOR PITCH (ep. 186)

Ready to improve your Elevator Pitch? Your elevator pitch is an asset that can optimize high-stakes conversations. Learn a dynamic 3-point framework that will help you confidently engage with critical stakeholders, ensuring you make a positive, memorable impact. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: http://talkabouttalk.com/ LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn – Talk About Talk: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talkabouttalk/ Newsletter: https://www.talkabouttalk.com/n...

Apr 29, 202514 min

How to Ace Your INTERVIEW (ep.185)

Looking for guidance on how to ace your job interview? Andrea shares an interview preparation checklist, focused on your preparation before the interview, your communication during the interview, what to do after the interview, and how to answer specific Qs. You can download the free downloadable checklist at talkabouttalk.com/interview RESOURCES The “Ace Your Interview Checklist” free download: https://talkabouttalk.com/interview Talk About Talk podcast episodes focused on boosting your confide...

Apr 15, 202524 min

#BeYourSelfOnPurpose – Be Your Self On Purpose and build a strong personal brand (ep.184)

#BeYourSelfOnPurpose: Five words packed full of meaning. Andrea shares the power of developing your strong unique personal brand by doing two things: 1) being yourself, 2) on purpose. You’ll also learn three specific contexts when you can put this mantra into action. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Website: TalkAboutTalk.com LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn Talk About Talk: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talkabouttalk/ Newsletter: https://www.talkabouttalk.com/newsle...

Apr 01, 202528 min

What’s Your ARCHETYPE? (ep.183)

What’s your archetype? Knowing your archetype can help you control your narrative, provide you with focus, and boost your confidence. Take the Archetypes Quiz at www.talkabouttalk.com/archetypesquiz . Archetypes are shared, universal patterns that help us understand characters, stories, and even ourselves. 12 PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY ARCHETYPES CAREGIVER – maternal, comforting, trusted, generous CREATOR – artist, designer, maker, vibrant CITIZEN – girl/guy next door, hardworking, friendly, down-to-...

Mar 18, 202521 min

3 Ways To Control Your NARRATIVE & Steer Your Professional Identity (ep.182)

Learn three ways to control your narrative and steer your professional identity. Andrea will teach you how to introduce yourself with purpose, reframe perceived weaknesses as strengths, and narrate your career transitions and your career journey. There are a million ways to tell the same story. Why not tell yours in a way that serves you? CONNECT WITH ANDREA LinkedIn – Andrea: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreawojnicki/ LinkedIn Talk About Talk: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talkabouttalk/ We...

Mar 04, 202522 min
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