Matt Abrahams

Lecturer in Organizational Behavior
Academic Area:
Organizational Behavior
Think Fast Talk Smart
Matt Abrahams

Bio

Matt Abrahams is a lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford GSB. He has decades of experience as an educator, author, podcast host, and coach. He teaches popular classes in strategic communication and effective virtual presenting. He received Stanford GSB’s Alumni Teaching Award in recognition of his teaching students around the world. Outside of the classroom, Matt is a sought-after keynote speaker and communication consultant. He has helped countless presenters improve and hone their communication, including some who have delivered IPO road shows as well as Nobel Prize, TED, and World Economic Forum presentations. He also consults for the United Nations Secretary General’s Strategic Planning and Communication Group. His online talks garner millions of views and he hosts the popular, award-winning podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart The Podcast. His new book Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot provides tangible, actionable skills to help even the most anxious of speakers succeed when speaking spontaneously, such as navigating Q&A sessions, shining in job interviews, providing effective feedback, making small talk, fixing faux pas, persuading others. His previous book Speaking Up without Freaking Out: 50 Techniques for Confident and Compelling Presenting has helped thousands of people manage speaking anxiety and present more confidently and authentically.

Academic Degrees

  • MA, Communication, UC Davis, 1993
  • BA, Psychology, Stanford University, 1991

Academic Appointments

  • Lecturer, Stanford GSB, 2011-present
  • Communication Instructor, Stanford Continuing Studies, 2006-present
  • Professor Speech Communication, Foothill-De Anza Community College District, 2004-18
  • Business Psychology Professor, Palo Alto University, 2009-10

Awards and Honors

  • Larsen Lam Family Lecturer for 2021–22
  • Circle of Excellence Award, Council for Advancement and Support of Education, 2021
  • Robert K. Jaedicke Faculty Award, Stanford GSB, 2018

Professional Experience

  • Principal and Founder, TFTS Communication LLC, 2022-present
  • Principal and Co-Founder, Bold Echo Communication Solutions, 2010-2021
  • Vice President Worldwide Education, Openwave, 2000-01
  • Senior Director Worldwide Education, Ariba, 1996-99
  • Director Education, Vantive, 1995-98
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Other Publications

How to Shine When You’re Put on the Spot
Matt Abrahams
Harvard Business Review
 September 2023 Vol. 101 Issue 5 Pages 139–143
How to Make a Compelling Pitch
Matt Abrahams
Harvard Business Review
 August 14, 2023
3 Ways to Keep Your Audience Focused During a Presentation
Matt Abrahams
Harvard Business Review
 July 28, 2023

Books

Think Faster Talk Smarter
Matt Abrahams
Simon & Schuster/Simon Element
 September 26, 2023
Speaking Up Without Freaking Out: 50 Techniques for Confident, Calm, and Competent Presenting (3rd edition)
Matt Abrahams
Kendall Hunt Publishing
January 5, 2016

Degree Courses

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Executive Education & Other Non-Degree Programs

Black Leaders Program
Transform your leadership, build community, and explore the complexities of showing up authentically in the Black Leaders Program.
Executive Program for Growing Companies
Discover business growth strategies and build a stronger company designed to sustain progress, scale management, and facilitate market expansion.

In the Media

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Insights by Stanford Business

Want To Be Memorable? Choose Your Words Carefully
March 18, 2025
The language we use can be incredibly powerful, explains Ada Aka in this podcast episode.
11 of Our Favorite Stories About Careers and Success From 2024
December 05, 2024
Want to become a better negotiator, facilitator, networker, or leader? Read on.
9 Stories About AI for Your Holiday Reading List
December 05, 2024
You can’t spell “holidays” without AI.
Communicating the Future: Defining Where We Want AI to Take Us
August 27, 2024
In this episode, Russ Altman shares his optimism about human connection and technological progress.
Creative Communication: How Our Design Choices Illustrate Our Values
August 20, 2024
In this episode, Scott Doorley explains why design is a conversation about how we want the world to be.
Can We Be Candid? How to Communicate Clearly and Directly
August 13, 2024
In this episode, Susan Rice touts the necessity of frankness, especially when negotiating.
Listen Up, Leaders: A Record-Setting Coach’s Guide to Communication
July 30, 2024
In this episode, Tara VanDerveer shares her philosophy and strategies around leadership and communication.
Get Hired: How the Right Communication Can Advance Your Career
July 16, 2024
In this episode, Andrew Seaman shares how to communicate who you are in your resume, on your profile, and in the interview.
Communication Tips from the Classroom and Around the World
July 10, 2024
In this 150th episode, Matt Abrahams, Shawon Jackson, and podcast listeners discuss their favorite pieces of communication advice.
Class Takeaways — How to Run a Meeting Effectively
July 09, 2024
Five lessons in five minutes: Lecturer Matt Abrahams shares what it takes to be a more confident, connected, and clear facilitator.
Conviction and Compassion: How to Have Hard Conversations
June 25, 2024
In this episode, Irv Grousbeck shares how to navigate hard conversations with conviction and compassion.
Your Summer 2024 Podcast Playlist
June 05, 2024
Dive into these thought-provoking, research-driven, and leadership-inspired podcast episodes.
Communicating Through Conflict: How to Get Along with Anyone
May 29, 2024
In this episode, Amy Gallo shares how disagreements, if reframed, can lead to more productive outcomes.
The Art of Saying No: How Closing the Wrong Doors Helps You Open the Right Ones
May 21, 2024
In this episode, Ilya Strebulaev shares how a venture capitalist’s mindset can help us make better decisions.
Power, Culture, Persuasion, and the Self: Communication Insights from Stanford GSB Faculty
May 17, 2024
Marketing and organizational behavior professors share how their recent research applies to communication.
An Invitation for Innovation: Why Creativity Is Found, Not Forced
May 09, 2024
In this podcast episode, Linda Hill shares how innovative teams communicate and collaborate their way to breakthrough.
Lose Yourself: The Secret to Finding Flow and Being Fully Present
April 23, 2024
In this podcast episode, David Melnikoff shares the secret to getting into the flow.
Speak Your Truth: Why Authenticity Leads to Better Communication
April 16, 2024
In this episode, Graham Weaver shares why being true to yourself enables you to show up better for others.
When Words Aren’t Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal Communication
April 09, 2024
In this episode, Dana Carney shares the five nonverbal rules of power.
How to Chat with Bots: The Secrets to Getting the Information You Need from AI
March 19, 2024
In this episode, Jeremy Utley and Kian Gohar explain how LLMs can help teams supercharge their problem-solving.
The Function of Friction: How to Use Obstacles to Your Advantage
February 28, 2024
Professor Hayagreeva “Huggy” Rao explains why resistance isn’t always a bad thing.
Seen & Heard: How to Make Your Audience Feel Understood
February 13, 2024
In this episode, David Brooks unpacks why listening is deep, creative work.
From Good to Great: What Makes a “Supercommunicator”
January 14, 2024
In this podcast episode, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Charles Duhigg shares what it means to be a supercommunicator.
7 of Our Favorite Podcast Episodes of 2023
December 07, 2023
Communication. Power. Technology. Finance. This year’s podcast roundup has something for everyone.
Maximizing Your Brand: Communicating Who You Are to Help Get What You Want
December 05, 2023
In this episode, Dorie Clark shares strategies for building the personal brand you want and need.
Say It, See It: How We Create a Shared Reality Through Communication
November 28, 2023
In this podcast episode, Shane O’Mara explains how conversations are so much more than just words.
Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff: How to Excel at Small Talk (and Even Enjoy It)
November 21, 2023
In this podcast episode, Matt Abrahams shares tips on how to master the art of chit-chat.
Communication Means Paying Attention: The Four Pillars of Active Listening
November 07, 2023
In this podcast episode, Julian Treasure shares how listening is where human understanding begins.
Missing Something? How to Kick FOMO with Conscious Decision-Making
October 31, 2023
In this episode, Patrick McGinnis explains how to conquer one of our greatest fears: the fear of missing out.
TL;DR: Writing Better to Capture Busy Readers
October 10, 2023
In this episode, Todd Rogers tells communicators how to get to the point — before their audience checks out.
Simplify! How to Communicate Complex Ideas Simply and Effectively
October 03, 2023
In this episode, Frances Frei shares why simple communication is the key to moving others to action.
Just Show Up: Bringing the Art of Improv to Your Communication
September 26, 2023
In this podcast episode, improv experts share how good communication begins with simply taking action.
How to “Think Faster and Talk Smarter”: a Masterclass with Matt Abrahams
September 19, 2023
Stanford GSB lecturer Matt Abrahams shares practical advice for speaking spontaneously — in both your personal and professional life.
Best Of: Using Skills From Improv to Master Your In-The-Moment Communication
September 13, 2023
Matt Abrahams revisits the first-ever episode, featuring Dan Klein and Adam Tobin.
Radical Candor: The Communication Shift That Can Transform Your Career
September 05, 2023
In this episode, Kim Scott shares the power of being both caring and challenging when giving feedback.
How to Change: Building Better Habits and Behaviors (And Getting Out of Your Own Way)
August 30, 2023
In this podcast episode, Katy Milkman shares how we can make our goals more achievable by making reaching them more enjoyable.
Simple Is a Superpower: How to Communicate Any Idea to Any Audience
August 22, 2023
In this episode, Carmine Gallo shares how intentional, straightforward messaging helps you connect with others and get things done.
Create a Presence: How to Communicate in a Way Others Can Feel
August 15, 2023
In this episode, Muriel Wilkins shares how the best communicators create a strong presence.
We Belong Together: How Communication Fuels Connection and Community
August 08, 2023
In this episode, Geoffrey Cohen shares how communication can help us find the connection we crave and need.
Talk Less, Say More: How to Kick The Habit of Over-talking
August 01, 2023
In this episode, Dan Lyons says it’s time we all zipped it.
Give It to Me Straight: The Power of Honest, Constructive Feedback
July 18, 2023
In this episode, David Dodson shares how workplace feedback can be your company’s secret weapon.
No Rules, No Trust: How Accountability Shapes Communication
July 11, 2023
In this episode, Anat Admati explains why we can’t build trust without a solid foundation of rules.
Rock and Role: How Assigning Gender to Inanimate Objects Influences Us
June 27, 2023
In this episode, Ashley Martin explains how ideas about gender affect our interactions.
The Power of No: How Boundaries Help Us Live More Empowered Lives
June 20, 2023
In this episode, Vanessa Patrick shares how saying no empowers us to live the lives we want.
All the Feels: The Personal and Professional Power of Emotional Awareness
June 07, 2023
In this episode, Celine Teoh shares why deep connection with others starts by connecting more deeply with ourselves.
No Regrets: How to Take Risks in Your Communication, Relationships, and Career
May 30, 2023
In this podcast episode, Dan Pink shares why we often over-index on risk.
“Um, Like, So”: How Filler Words Can Be Effective in Communication
May 23, 2023
Valerie Fridland explains the meaning we all ascribe to these words and how to use them more effectively in your communication.
Listen, Listen, Listen: How to Build Deep Connections
May 09, 2023
Rachel Greenwald shares how to be a skilled conversationalist in work, love, and life.
Know What You’re Saying: How Communicating Tests Our Understanding
April 25, 2023
In this episode, Gregory LaBlanc says it’s not about what you know — it’s about how well you can communicate it.
Building Habits: The Key to Lasting Behavior Change
April 18, 2023
In this episode, BJ Fogg reveals the secret to building habits that stick.
Quick Thinks: How Others Define Us
April 05, 2023
In this bonus episode, Brian Lowery discusses his new book, Selfless: The Social Creation of You.
You Need a Manifesto: How to Communicate Your Convictions
March 28, 2023
In this episode, the d.school’s Charlotte Burgess-Auburn explains the power of crafting your own personal manifesto.
It’s Not About You: Why Effective Communicators Put Others First
March 21, 2023
In this episode, Nancy Duarte explains why the audience is the real hero of your presentation.
Fact or Fiction? How to Communicate When We Hold Different Beliefs
March 14, 2023
In this episode, Seema Yasmin explains what to do when we disagree about our deepest-held beliefs.
Magic Words: Change What You Say to Inspire and Influence Others
March 08, 2023
In this episode, Jonah Berger, PhD ’07, shares the secret to persuading others and getting your ideas to catch on.
Equity by Design: How Diversity Ignites Creativity
February 28, 2023
In this episode, Professor Adina Sterling discusses how we can foster more diversity for healthier social networks and stronger high-performing teams.
Three Guiding Principles for Successful Communication
February 15, 2023
In this episode, Matt Abrahams shares top takeaways from 75 episodes and answers listeners’ questions.
Quick Thinks: AI Has Entered the Chat — a “Conversation” with ChatGPT
February 08, 2023
In this podcast episode, Matt Abrahams interviews an algorithm.
Change My Mind: Using “Pre-suasion” to Influence Others
January 24, 2023
In this episode, psychology expert Bob Cialdini reveals the inner workings of social influence and persuasion.
Love & Money: How to Talk About Big Decisions Together
January 12, 2023
In this podcast episode, Myra Strober and Abby Davisson share a framework to help us communicate professional goals with those we care about most.
Class Takeaways — Essentials of Strategic Communication
December 16, 2022
Five lessons in five minutes: lecturer Matt Abrahams offers frameworks for successfully crafting your message.
9 Top Podcast Episodes from 2022
December 06, 2022
Our favorite episodes from the past year delve into business topics from workplace communication and power to technology, finance, and economics.
Listen Up: Why It’s Better to Be Interested than Interesting
December 06, 2022
In this episode, Alison Wood Brooks reveals the secret to having better conversations.
Quick Thinks: Talk It Out – How to Successfully Negotiate and Resolve Conflict
November 22, 2022
Professor Michele Gelfand shares communication strategies for getting more of what you want.
Strategic Success: How to Communicate Your Gameplan
November 08, 2022
In this episode, Jesper Sørensen explores why organizational strategy can be both top-down and bottom-up.
Keep ’Em Coming: Why Your First Ideas Aren’t Always the Best
October 25, 2022
In this episode, Jeremy Utley explains why good ideas are often preceded by not-so-good ideas.
Feeling Nervous? How Anxiety Can Fuel Better Communication
October 11, 2022
In this episode, lecturer Kelly McGonigal shares how stress and anxiety can be used to enhance our communication.
Directive Speech vs. Dialogue: Communicating Better as a Leader
September 28, 2022
In this episode, Dean Jon Levin shares his thoughts on the changing role of communication in business leadership.
What Is Normal? How Culture Affects Communication Styles
September 13, 2022
In this episode, Michele Gelfand explains why social norms are the glue that keeps cultures together.
Ties That Bind: Why Remote Teams Need the Right Connection
August 17, 2022
In this episode, Professor Glenn Carroll and his colleague Michael Arena discuss innovation in a hybrid work environment.
The Price of Cheap Talk: What Economics Teaches Us About Communication
July 19, 2022
In this episode, we explore how economic concepts show up in everyday communication.
8 Faculty Members Recommend Their Favorite Podcasts
July 11, 2022
Here’s a list of shows to add to your summer listening.
Courage, Belonging, Ambiguity and Data: How to Design Your Communication for Success
June 22, 2022
In this episode, we dive into four different themes that will help your message stand out.
Communicating Uncertainty: How to Connect With Your Audience, Even When The Answers Aren’t Clear
June 07, 2022
In this podcast episode, we discuss how being transparent is crucial to earning trust.
From Dreaming to Doing: How We Set and Achieve Goals
May 31, 2022
In this episode, we look at an essential ingredient of human behavior: motivation.
Forgiveness: How the Right Communication Repairs Relationships
May 10, 2022
In this podcast episode, we look at the role of forgiveness in healthy communication.
“Are You Listening?” How to Stay Open and Curious to Other People’s Ideas
April 28, 2022
In this episode, we discuss the importance of really hearing where others are coming from.
Lean Messaging: How Simple Messages Really Stick
April 12, 2022
In this podcast episode, a veteran marketer and entrepreneur shares his approach to communicating for startup success.
Ideas & Empathy: How to Design and Communicate with Others in Mind
March 29, 2022
In this podcast episode, we explore how design and communication both start with the same ingredient: empathy.
Leadership and Ethics: How to Communicate Your Core Values
March 14, 2022
On this podcast episode, we discuss the keys to making ethical decisions in your professional and personal life.
Leading From Home: How to Create the Right Environment for Communication
March 01, 2022
In this podcast episode, we discuss the importance of not just knowing what your audience needs to hear, but how they need to hear it.
Communicating Our Mistakes: How to Avoid Common Errors and Make Better Decisions
February 17, 2022
In this podcast episode, we discuss decision-making mistakes, and how to talk about them.
Telling Good Stories: How to Use the Elements of Narrative to Keep Listeners Engaged
February 04, 2022
In this podcast episode, we discuss how to foster a sense of empathy and connection through storytelling.
Make Numbers Count: How to Translate Data for Your Audience
January 19, 2022
In this podcast episode, we discuss the importance of communicating numbers so they pack a punch.
9 Podcast Episodes to Listen to This Holiday Season
December 13, 2021
Here are some of our top picks from the Stanford GSB community’s podcasts in 2021.
How to Use Storytelling to Be a Better Founder
December 13, 2021
In this bonus episode, we share lessons from the Stanford GSB class “Startup Garage” on hypotheses, narrative, and design thinking.
Stay Creative: How to Keep Your Ideas Fresh and Practical
December 03, 2021
In this podcast episode, we share common mistakes that can stifle ideas and why managers should stay involved in the creative process.
Recipes From the “Communication Kitchen:” How to Handle 3 Common Challenges This Holiday Season
November 18, 2021
In this podcast episode, we share strategies for surviving small talk as well as 10 of our favorite “recipes” from past guests.
Step Into Power: What Acting Can Teach Us About Power and Responsibility
November 11, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how lessons from the theater inform leadership styles and power dynamics at work.
Get Psyched: How Time and Situations Shape Our Communication
October 28, 2021
In this podcast episode, psychologist Philip Zimbardo talks about “time perspective” and the lessons of the Stanford Prison Experiment.
Masterclass: Communicating with Confidence
October 19, 2021
Confidence and mindset can alleviate anxiety and improve almost any pitch or meeting.
Communicating Your Big Idea
October 05, 2021
Stanford lecturer shares tips to improve your next business pitch.
Speak Like a Founder: How Successful Entrepreneurs Communicate to Their Teams
October 01, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how startups can build a product quickly and effectively.
Mindset Matters: How to Embrace the Benefits of Stress
September 16, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how you can channel stress to help your performance and relationships.
12 Podcasts to Listen to as Commutes and Classes Start Up Again
September 09, 2021
Members of the Stanford GSB faculty recommend some of their favorite programs.
Brains Love Stories: How Leveraging Neuroscience Can Capture People’s Emotions
September 02, 2021
In this podcast episode, we learn about ways to tap into our hardwired response to communication.
The New Normal: How Hybrid Work Actually Works
August 19, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss the effectiveness of communicating in a hybrid work environment.
Be Better: How Communication Catalyzes Business Transformation
August 05, 2021
In this podcast episode, we learn how communication is critical for every function inside of an organization.
Perfecting Teamwork: Building High-Performing Teams by Encouraging Learning
July 15, 2021
In this podcast episode, we learn how to break down professional silos and hierarchies in teams.
Leading from the Hot Seat: How to Communicate under Pressure
June 25, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how to communicate effectively during a crisis.
How We Gain — or Give Away — Authority While Speaking
June 03, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss the body language and word choices that can help you “power up” or “power down” your communication.
Hacking Your Speaking Anxiety: How Lessons from Neuroscience Can Help You Communicate Confidently
May 14, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss actions you can take to reduce speaking anxiety and achieve your communication goals.
Speech That Empowers: How to Encourage Growth and Resilience in a Younger Audience
April 23, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss best practices when inspiring young people to seize responsibility.
Quick Thinks: How to Shine Online
April 19, 2021
We’ve compiled top insights and advice from previous episodes to help you cultivate a compelling professional presence through the screen.
Dissolve Disagreements: How Communication Impacts Conflict
April 01, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how forms of “psychological distancing” can be used to build trust and encourage tolerance.
Twelve Months Later: Our 10 Top Stories About Working Through the Pandemic
March 19, 2021
An interview with Zoom’s CEO. A crisis-leadership playbook. A podcast on virtual presentations. And a word on how to close shop gracefully.
Question Everything: Why Curiosity Is Communication’s Secret Weapon
March 12, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how asking strong questions helps you build trust and connect with your audience.
Building Successful Relationships: How to Effectively Communicate in Your Professional and Personal Life
February 18, 2021
In this podcast episode, we discuss how our behavior impacts our relationships and sharing our feelings can lead to more success as a leader.
Psychology Trumps Technology: How to Express Yourself and Truly Connect With Others Online
January 28, 2021
In this podcast episode, we unpack the psychology behind our communication via social media.
Writing to Win: How to Quickly Capture Readers and Keep Them Engaged
January 11, 2021
In this episode, we discuss how to write simply, succinctly, and with relevance.
8 Podcast Episodes to Listen to Over the Holidays
December 11, 2020
Cozy up and listen up to our top episodes from 2020.
Quick Thinks: All Effective Communication Must Start With This
December 04, 2020
Hint: it’s not just about what you want to say.
Feelings First: How Emotion Shapes Our Communication, Decisions, and Experiences
November 20, 2020
In this episode, we discuss how recognizing your audience’s emotional needs can help you achieve your communication goals.
A Year in Stories: Top Ten Picks of 2020
November 19, 2020
We’ve gathered together the most memorable articles, interviews, podcasts, and videos from a year of world-changing events.
Don’t Let Politics Poison the Workplace: Some Advice from Business School Experts
November 10, 2020
Political polarization may creep into the workplace. Here are some ways managers can become peacekeepers.
Look Within: How to Lead with Self Awareness and Vulnerability
November 06, 2020
In this podcast episode, we explore how good leaders can self reflect and better communicate to advance social justice.
Under Pressure: How to Communicate During a Crisis
October 22, 2020
In this episode, we discuss how leaders can communicate effectively when their organization, brand, or reputation is under attack.
Words Matter: How to Make Your Communication Inclusive
October 09, 2020
In this episode, we discuss how subtle word choice can invite inclusion, or can reinforce harmful stereotypes.
Question Your Questions: How to Spark Creativity in Your Communication
September 25, 2020
In this episode, we discuss how curiosity and storytelling can lead to more innovative online and in-person communication.
Showing Your Smile From Behind a Mask: How Culture and Emotion Impact Communication
September 11, 2020
In this episode, we discuss how cultural values play an important role in how you communicate and how you perceive others’ communication.
Managing in the Moment: How to Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable
August 28, 2020
In this episode, we discuss how to embrace failure and incorporate play into work.
Think Fast: You Asked, We Answered
August 14, 2020
In this episode, we address audience questions that range from how to handle interrupters to how to craft an authentic, clear email.
Quick Think: How to Use Body Language When Confronting Objections
July 31, 2020
In this bonus episode, Stanford GSB lecturers share advice on how to position yourself when met with skepticism from your audience.
Be Better at Work: How to Communicate Better with Coworkers and Employees
July 06, 2020
In this podcast episode, two experts discuss where leaders should and shouldn’t focus their attention when it comes to running group communication.
Make ’Em Laugh: How Humor Can Be the Secret Weapon in Your Communication
June 22, 2020
In this podcast episode, we dissect how to use humor to build bonds in business and in life.
It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Say It: How to Communicate Power
June 08, 2020
On this podcast episode, we discuss how to harness power through non-verbal communication.
The Science of Influence: How to Persuade Others and Hold Their Attention
May 26, 2020
In this podcast episode, we discuss communication techniques that can help open people up to your ideas.
High-Stakes Communication: How to Manage Anxiety Speaking in Front of Others
May 07, 2020
In this podcast episode, Matt Abrahams shares research-supported techniques for gaining confidence in high-stakes communication situations.
Quick Thinks: How Being Present Improves Communication
April 24, 2020
In this “Quick Thinks” podcast episode, Stanford improv experts share advice on getting out of our heads and into the moment at hand.
Don’t Get Lost in Translation: How Non-Native Speakers Can Communicate with Confidence
April 10, 2020
On this podcast episode, host Matt Abrahams speaks with Kenneth Romeo on specific tactics that non-native English speakers can use to handle in-the-moment challenges.
Quick Thinks: Tips for Speaking up in Virtual Meetings
April 03, 2020
In this bonus episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams shares a framework for structuring your comments during a meeting or presentation.
Quick Thinks: Communicating and Leading Virtually
March 27, 2020
In this bonus episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams shares quick tips on communicating via screen.
From Monologue to Dialogue: How to Handle a Skeptical Audience
March 12, 2020
Use these techniques when handling challenges and objections.
The Journey to Mastery: How Self Reflection Can Improve Communication
February 27, 2020
Implement these best practices before and after both high-stakes and everyday communication to improve your effectiveness.
How to Make Complex Ideas More Accessible
February 14, 2020
In this podcast episode, we explore techniques for presenting complicated information so your audience can more easily understand.
Communicating Our Multiple Selves: How to Manage Your Reputation
January 31, 2020
Learn how to shape the way others see you through your verbal and nonverbal communication in this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart.
Speaking Without a Net: How to Master Impromptu Communication
January 17, 2020
Stanford improv experts discuss the art of in-the-moment communication in this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart.
Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast
January 17, 2020
How do I communicate clearly when put on the spot? How can I easily convey complex information? How do I manage my reputation?
8 Most-Read Stories of 2019
December 06, 2019
Communication mistakes, job-stealing robots, and career-gap explanations captured reader attention this year.
How to Handle a Question You Don’t Want to Answer
November 22, 2019
Public speaking can be extra challenging when you’re put on the spot.
Presence, Structure, Performance: 5 Tips to Improve Your Public Speaking
August 19, 2019
Our experts’ tips on small changes that can make or break your next presentation.
Five Common Communication Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
May 03, 2019
Learn how to be more effective at your next meeting or presentation.
The Master Communicator’s Toolbox
December 14, 2018
These three skills will help you grab and keep your audience’s attention.
Make the Most of Your Virtual Communications
December 06, 2018
How you present yourself on screen can make or break your credibility.
Seven Most-Read Stories of 2018
December 03, 2018
From tips for career satisfaction to an economist’s stint as an Uber driver, here are the stories that caught our readers’ attention.
What the Pros Know About Public Speaking
July 30, 2018
Confidence equals competence. Learn how great leaders handle a crowd.
Hit the Mark: Make Complex Ideas Understandable
March 29, 2018
6 ways to communicate challenging concepts to an audience.
10 Most-Read Stories of 2017
December 04, 2017
Readers keyed into humor’s workplace value, the secret to improving communication skills, and advice from Sheryl Sandberg and Marc Andreessen.
Be Better at Spontaneous Speaking
October 26, 2017
Use these tools to help you think fast and talk smart.
What Does the Word “Intelligence” Really Mean?
August 21, 2017
Stanford GSB professors suggest a reading list of articles and books related to the concept.
One Communication Tool You Should Add to Your Toolkit
January 04, 2017
Want to provide better feedback, introduce people, or master small talk? Try this technique.
Top Business Podcasts of 2016
December 12, 2016
Long commute? Spend the time listening to these 10 Stanford Business stories.
10 Tips For Giving Effective Virtual Presentations
September 26, 2016
What to know before you go live.
A Big Data Approach to Public Speaking
April 04, 2016
Key takeaways from analyzing 100,000 presentations.
How to Manage Your Anxiety When Presenting
January 29, 2016
Do you get nervous speaking in public? Learn how to mitigate your fear.
A Look Back at 2015
December 19, 2015
Explore Stanford Business stories from 2015, including pieces on technology, finance, and work-life balance.
How to Handle Audience Skepticism
September 03, 2015
Anyone with a novel idea, from an entrepreneur to a product marketer, should know how to handle a suspicious audience.
Matt Abrahams: Become a Better Virtual Communicator
May 20, 2015
An expert on public speaking explains how online technology changes the way we communicate.
Matt Abrahams: A Good Question Can Be the Key to a Successful Presentation
July 25, 2014
A Stanford GSB lecturer and expert on public speaking explains how you can become a more compelling and confident presenter by asking – not telling – in the right situations.
Matt Abrahams: How to Make Unforgettable Presentations
March 13, 2014
A Stanford lecturer and expert on public speaking explains how to ensure your audience remembers what they hear and see.
Matt Abrahams: Presentations and the Art of the Graceful Recovery
March 04, 2014
A Stanford lecturer and expert on public speaking explains what to do when memory fails.
Matt Abrahams: How Do You Make a Memorable Presentation?
February 26, 2014
A Stanford lecturer and expert on public speaking explains how to manage anxiety and deliver a smooth presentation.
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School News

Alumni and Faculty Member Recognized for Exemplary Service
October 30, 2018
Five alumni and one faculty member recognized for contributions to Stanford GSB during annual reunion weekend.
"An Intergenerational Transfer of Education"
December 13, 2012
C-suite leaders challenge MBA students to lead under pressure.

Videos and Podcasts

  • Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

    Stanford Graduate School of Business

    Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
    00:58:20

    Think Fast, Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

  • Speaking Up Without Freaking Out

    TEDx Palo Alto

    Speaking Up Without Freaking Out
    00:13:45

    Speaking Up Without Freaking Out

  • Minimally Viable Communication: When Good Enough Is Great

    Stanford Graduate School of Business

    Minimally Viable Communication: When Good Enough Is Great
    00:56:06

    Minimally Viable Communication: When Good Enough Is Great

  • How to Make Your Communication Memorable

    Stanford Graduate School of Business

    How to Make Your Communication Memorable
    00:52:45

    How to Make Your Communication Memorable

  • What the Pros Know About Public Speaking

    Stanford Graduate School of Business

    What the Pros Know About Public Speaking
    00:11:37

    What the Pros Know About Public Speaking

think fast talk smart logo

Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast

Join Matt Abrahams, lecturer in strategic communication, as he sits down with experts to discuss public speaking anxiety, speaking off the cuff, nailing a Q&A, and more.