DisrupTV Episode 347: The Art of Speaking Up – Insights from Amy Edmondson & Matt Abrahams

In DisrupTV Episode 347, hosts R “Ray” Wang and Vala Afshar engage in a compelling conversation with two distinguished experts who delve into the nuances of communication and leadership:

  • Amy Edmondson, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management at Harvard Business School and author of Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well, explores the concept of psychological safety and its pivotal role in fostering innovation and learning within organizations.
  • Matt Abrahams, Lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business and author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot, shares practical strategies for effective impromptu communication, emphasizing the importance of preparation and adaptability in high-stakes conversations.

This episode offers invaluable insights into creating environments where individuals feel safe to speak up and how to communicate effectively under pressure.

Key Takeaways

  • Psychological Safety as a Foundation: Edmondson emphasizes that psychological safety is not about being nice; it's about creating an environment where individuals feel safe to take risks, voice concerns, and make mistakes without fear of negative consequences.
  • The Power of Speaking Up: Encouraging open communication leads to better decision-making, increased innovation, and a more engaged workforce.
  • Strategies for Impromptu Speaking: Abrahams provides techniques such as the "Pause, Pivot, and Project" method to help individuals respond confidently and coherently in spontaneous situations.
  • Preparation Meets Adaptability: While preparation is key, being adaptable and present in the moment allows for more authentic and impactful communication.

Watch the Full Episode

Experience the full discussion and gain deeper insights by watching the episode below:

DisrupTV Episode 347: The Art of Speaking Up

Related Episodes

For further exploration into topics of leadership, communication, and organizational culture, consider the following episodes:

Final Thoughts

DisrupTV Episode 347 underscores the critical importance of creating environments where individuals feel psychologically safe to express themselves and the value of mastering the art of impromptu communication. As organizations continue to navigate complex challenges, fostering open dialogue and effective communication will be essential for innovation, collaboration, and sustained success. This episode serves as a valuable resource for leaders and professionals seeking to enhance their communication skills and build more inclusive and resilient organizations.