Explore every episode of the podcast Communication Psychology and HR – with Gerhard Ohrband
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Numerology and HR — Dangerous or Useful Shortcut? | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:11:40 | |
I know this may be controversial, and some people might feel uncomfortableor even angry hearing this. But it’s worth asking: what happens when hiring,leadership, or team decisions are influenced by zodiac signs, numbers, or“energetic profiles”? In an increasingly complex world, shortcuts feeltempting. But what does science actually say — and what are the hidden costs ofputting people into neat but fictional boxes? | |||
| How to Deal With Your Own Mistakes in Communication | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:11:28 | |
Communication mistakes are far more common than we realize — and most ofthem are unintentional. When we respond with openness instead of punishment, weincrease psychological safety and strengthen teamwork. Here are some practicalideas for handling your own communication errors more effectively. #communication #leadership #psychology #personaldevelopment#workplaceculture #business #teams | |||
| The Unscripted Challenge - Why Difficult Conversations Feel Harder Than Public Speaking | 08 Sep 2025 | 00:06:06 | |
Public speaking is rehearsed, scripted, and predictable. But what about theconversations we can’t plan—the ones that take unexpected turns, stir emotions,or shift roles on the spot? In this episode of The Unscripted Challenge, we explore why real-life conversationsoften feel harder than stepping onto a stage—and how you can navigate them withmore confidence. References Afifi, W. A., & Weiner, J. L. (2004). Toward a theory of motivatedinformation management. CommunicationTheory, 14(2), 167–190. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2885.2004.tb00310.x Kaneko, A. (2024). Communication apprehension in the workplace: The role ofposition and facilitation skills. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly. Advanceonline publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/23294906241295696 Lillie, T., Venetis, M. K., &Chernichky-Karcher, S. (2023). Resilience communication mitigates thenegative relational effects of topic avoidance: Evidence from parentalcaregiving and COVID-19 pandemic contexts. Personal Relationships, 30(4), 1252–1273. https://doi.org/10.1111/pere.12508 McCroskey, J. C., Beatty, M. J., Kearney, P., & Plax, T. G. (1985). Thecontent validity of the PRCA-24 as a measure of communication apprehensionacross communication contexts. CommunicationQuarterly, 33(3), 165–173. https://doi.org/10.1080/01463378509369595 | |||
| The biggest mistakes in learning a foreign language only few people talk about | 20 Aug 2024 | 00:02:50 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| The Future of Language Learning in an Age of AI | 13 Aug 2024 | 00:04:06 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| You are not learning a foreign language to impress your teacher | 07 Aug 2024 | 00:01:32 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| Consume local media from the countries of your customers | 30 Jul 2024 | 00:01:58 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”.
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| How to become more flexible in understanding English accents | 16 Jul 2024 | 00:01:44 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| Typical mistakes in business communication in a foreign language | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:02:14 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| How to memorize new words better | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:03:30 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| What is the use of intensive language learning? | 25 Jun 2024 | 00:02:33 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| How to stop wasting time while learning a foreign language | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:04:49 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| Should I practice to speak only after I feel sure about my language skills? | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:04:44 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| How to See the Good in the Bad While Talking to a Difficult Person | 01 Sep 2025 | 00:09:56 | |
Every team has a “difficult person”—the colleague who always says no, challenges every idea, or seems impossibly negative. But what if that behavior actually reflects a hidden virtue? In this episode, we explore how recognizing the good in the bad can transform difficult conversations and bring more balance to your team. References Baege, M. (2018). Bowen family systems theory. Vermont Center forFamily Studies. Retrieved fromhttps://vermontcenterforfamilystudies.org/about/bowen-family-systems-theory/ Brown, J., & Errington, L. (2024). Bowen family systems theory andpractice: Illustration and critique revisited. ResearchGate. Retrievedfrom https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Jenny-Brown-2/publication/381014808_Bowen_family_systems_theory_and_practice_Illustration_and_critique_revisited/links/66829e8e0a25e27fbc1a1f34/Bowen-family-systems-theory-and-practice-Illustration-and-critique-revisited.pdf Schulz von Thun, F. (1989). DasWerte- und Entwicklungsquadrat. Schulz von Thun Institut. Retrievedfrom https://www.schulz-von-thun.de/die-modelle/das-werte-und-entwicklungsquadrat The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family. (n.d.). Introduction toBowen theory. Retrieved from https://www.thebowencenter.org/introduction-eight-concepts Verywell Mind. (2022, January 10). What is family systems therapy?.Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/family-systems-therapy-definition-techniques-and-efficacy-5213785 | |||
| Egotistic vs. altruistic speaking in foreign languages | 04 Jun 2024 | 00:03:20 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| How to express yourself more clearly in foreign languages? | 28 May 2024 | 00:03:10 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| To make no mistakes should not be the goal in language learning | 21 May 2024 | 00:02:56 | |
Do you want to get rid of insecurity and bad feelings regarding the foreign language(s) you have already started to learn? Want to learn a new language, without going through various levels of standard courses? You feel you are making no progress? Go to Amazon and grab a copy of my classic book ”The GO Method – breaking barriers to language learning”. Get the first two chapters for free by subscribing to Gerhard's weekly newsletter, with advice and resources on becoming better at foreign languages. Just click here.
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| The myth of leaving our comfort zone | 25 Aug 2025 | 00:10:58 | |
We often hear that growth begins only outside our comfort zone. But the truth is more nuanced: sustainable progress happens in the learning zone, not when we’re thrown into panic. In this episode, I’ll share why keeping some areas of stability is vital if we want to grow boldly in others. #ComfortZone #LearningZone #PersonalGrowth #CommunicationSkills#PsychologicalSafety #Coaching #LeadershipDevelopment #Resilience#GrowthMindset #SelfDevelopment Literature Bodie, G. D. (2010). A racing heart,rattling knees, and ruminative thoughts: Defining, explaining, and treatingpublic speaking anxiety. Communication Education, 59(1), 70–105.https://doi.org/10.1080/03634520903443849 Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow:The psychology of optimal experience. New York: Harper & Row. McKenzie, M. (2003). Beyond “theoutward bound process”: Rethinking student learning. Journal of ExperientialEducation, 26(1), 8–23. https://doi.org/10.1177/105382590302600104 White, A. (2009). From comfort zoneto performance management: Understanding development and performance. Journalof Management Development, 28(5), 414–427.https://doi.org/10.1108/02621710910955985 Yerkes, R. M., & Dodson, J. D.(1908). The relation of strength of stimulus to rapidity of habit‐formation. Journalof Comparative Neurology and Psychology, 18(5), 459–482.https://doi.org/10.1002/cne.920180503 | |||
| Can Conflicts Be Productive? | 18 Aug 2025 | 00:11:19 | |
"Conflict isn’t always destructive—in fact, when harnessed correctly, it can sharpen ideas, drive clarity, and ignite innovation. Whether through rigorous debate or structured task-related tension, the right kind of conflict—with psychological safety and respectful handling—can transform discord into discovery." #ConflictProductivity #InnovationThroughDebate #PsychologicalSafety #GrowthMindset #Leadership | |||
| When Conversations Go Wrong: What You Can Learn From Regret | 11 Aug 2025 | 00:11:36 | |
Have you ever replayed aconversation and wished you could hit “undo”? We all have moments where wordsdon’t land as we hoped — but what if those regrets could become your greatestteachers? This episode dives into five practical strategies to turncommunication misfires into powerful growth opportunities. Learn how shiftingyour mindset and analyzing your patterns can transform regret into resilience.
Books: · Carol Dweck: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success · Maxwell Maltz: Psycho-Cybernetics Scientific Articles by Carol Dweck: 1. Dweck, C. S. (2006). "Mindsets and Human Nature: PromotingChange in the Middle East, the Schoolyard, the Corporation, and theClinic." AmericanPsychologist. 2. Dweck, C. S. (1986). "Motivational processes affectinglearning." AmericanPsychologist. 3. Dweck, C. S., &Leggett, E. L. (1988). "A social-cognitive approach to motivationand personality." PsychologicalReview. | |||
| What to do about stage fright? | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:12:38 | |
What’s more terrifying than spidersor heights? For many professionals, it’s public speaking. In the latest episode of myCommunication Psychology podcast, we tackle the roots of stage frightand explore what actually works to overcome it — according to science. 🚩 Why do we feel speech anxiety, even when we’re prepared? Featuring insights fromcommunication psychology, neuroscience, and practical techniques forprofessionals, trainers, and leaders. 🎧 Listen now — and learn how to turn fear into focus. #PublicSpeaking #StageFright#CommunicationPsychology #Podcast #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence Top of Form Bottom of Form Recommended reading: Ayres, J. (1997). Explainingcommunication apprehension: A communication competence perspective. In J.A. Daly, J. C. McCroskey, J. Ayres, T. Hopf, & D. M. Ayres (Eds.), Avoidingcommunication: Shyness, reticence, and communication apprehension (2nd ed.,pp. 55–88). Hampton Press. Beatty, M. J., McCroskey, J. C.,& Heisel, A. D. (1998). Communication apprehension as atemperament-based construct. Communication Monographs, 65(2),197–219. https://doi.org/10.1080/03637759809376447 Bodie, G. D. (2010). A racingheart, rattling knees, and ruminative thoughts: Defining, explaining, andtreating public speaking anxiety. Communication Education, 59(1),70–105. https://doi.org/10.1080/03634520903443849 Dwyer, K. K., & Davidson, M. M.(2012). Is public speaking really more feared than death? CommunicationResearch Reports, 29(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.1080/08824096.2012.667772 Stein, M. B., Walker, J. R., &Forde, D. R. (1996). Public-speaking fears in a community sample:Prevalence, impact on functioning, and diagnostic classification. Archivesof General Psychiatry, 53(2), 169–174. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.1996.01830020093010 | |||
| How to become more flexible in your conversations | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:11:35 | |
In this episode of CommunicationPsychology, we explore how to becomemore flexible in your conversations — not just talking, but trulyadapting and connecting across contexts. Drawing from cutting-edge research, we examinepractical strategies like: · Building cognitiveflexibility to better tune into conversational cues (Chesebro &Martin, 2003; Richter et al., 2020) · Developing a communication flexibility mindset through self-awarenessand situational adjustment (Martin & Rubin, 1995) · Navigating cultural contexts by adapting communication styles todiverse backgrounds (Hall, 1976; Klopf, 2009) How can we systematically broaden ourconversational horizons? By engaging with content from different regions, professions, and cultures—literature,podcasts, interviews—that challenge our habitual frames. Tune in to learn: Join the conversation! How have you adaptedyour communication style in unexpected situations? Drop your insights orquestions in the comments 👇 and let’s build a moreflexible, inclusive dialogue landscape together. #communication #psychology #intercultural#flexibility #podcast #conversations #listening Recommended reading: Chesebro, J.W., & Martin, M. M. (2003). Therelationship between conversational sensitivity, cognitive flexibility, verbalaggressiveness and indirect interpersonal aggressiveness. Communication Research Reports, 20(2), 143–150. Hall, E. T. (1976). BeyondCulture. New York, NY: Doubleday. Klopf, D. W. (2009). Interculturalcommunication encounters (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon. Martin, M.,& Rubin, R. B. (1995). Thedevelopment of a communication flexibility measure. Communication Research Reports, 12(2), 145–158.r Richter, F.,Segerer, P., & Knoblich, G. (2020). Anapproach to social flexibility: Congruency effects during word-by-word turntaking. PLOS ONE, 15(5), e0235083. | |||
| What is the correct attitude towards communication mistakes | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:08:01 | |
How do you react when you make acommunication mistake — defensiveness, shame… or curiosity? In this episode of my podcast on CommunicationPsychology, I explore how we can adopt an error management attitudewhen we speak — especially when stakes are high. Drawing on the research of MichaelFrese and others, we discuss how mistakes can become stepping stones for learning,adaptability, and authentic connection. ✅ Learn how to turn errors into insights 🔗 Listen now and let me know what mistakes taught you themost. #CommunicationSkills #Psychology#ErrorManagement #Leadership #GrowthMindset #Podcast
Recommended reading: Frese, M., & Keith, N. (2015). Errormanagement theory: From training to performance: Key concepts and empiricalfindings. In S. Sonnentag, U. Frese, & C. E. M. Peeters (Eds.), Psychologicalmanagement of individual performance (pp. 111–131). Wiley. Keith, N., & Frese, M. (2005). Self-regulationin error management training: Emotion control and metacognition as mediators ofperformance effects. Journal of Applied Psychology, 90(4), 677–691.https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.90.4.677 Rybowiak, V., Garst, H., Frese, M.,& Batinic, B. (1999). Error orientation questionnaire (EOQ):Reliability, validity, and different language equivalence. Journal ofOrganizational Behavior, 20(4), 527–547.https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1099-1379(199907)20:4<527::AID-JOB886>3.0.CO;2-G Van Dyck, C., Frese, M., Baer, M.,& Sonnentag, S. (2005). Organizational error management culture and itsimpact on performance: A two-study replication. Journal of AppliedPsychology, 90(6), 1228–1240. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.90.6.1228 | |||
| Why we are afraid of working on our communication skills? | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:12:40 | |
We all say communication iskey — but when it comes to receiving feedback on our own skills, many of usfreeze or flee. Why? In this episode of the CommunicationPsychology podcast, I explore the surprising psychological reasons behindour resistance to improving our communication. From fear of being “found out”to unconscious identity threats, we dig into why even high-performingprofessionals avoid this kind of self-work. 💡Based on leading research in psychology and communicationcoaching #communication #psychology #feedback#leadership #growthmindset #podcast
Recommended reading: Dunning, D., Heath, C., & Suls,J. M. (2004). Flawed self-assessment: Implications for health, education,and the workplace. Psychological Science in the Public Interest, 5(3),69–106. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1529-1006.2004.00018.x Gregory, J. B., & Levy, P. E.(2011). It's not me, it's you: A multilevel examination of variables thatimpact employee coaching relationships. Consulting Psychology Journal:Practice and Research, 63(2), 67–88. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0024152 Kegan, R., & Lahey, L. L.(2009). Immunity to change: How to overcome it and unlock the potential inyourself and your organization. Harvard Business Press. London, M. (2003). Job feedback:Giving, seeking, and using feedback for performance improvement (2nd ed.).Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Sedikides, C., & Strube, M. J.(1997). Self-evaluation: To thine own self be good, to thine own self besure, to thine own self be true, and to thine own self be better. Advancesin Experimental Social Psychology, 29, 209–269. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0065-2601(08)60018-0 | |||
| Are you Type 1 or Type 2 self-confident? | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:12:11 | |
Most people think self-confidence means always being in control, nevershowing weakness, always looking sharp. But psychology says otherwise. In this episode, I explore two radicallydifferent forms of self-confidence: · Type 1:The polished, flawless image we project. · Type 2:The quiet strength to admit mistakes, ask questions, and show our human side. Which one builds better relationships, trust,and long-term impact—especially in leadership and communication? Let’s rethink what it really means to be confident. #leadership #selfconfidence #communication#psychology #authenticity #podcast
Recommended reading: Kernis, M. H. (2003). Toward aconceptualization of optimal self-esteem. Psychological Inquiry, 14(1),1–26. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327965PLI1401_01 Owens, B. P.,& Hekman, D. R. (2012). Modeling howto grow: An inductive examination of humble leader behaviors, contingencies,and outcomes. Academy of Management Journal, 55(4), 787–818.https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2010.0441 | |||
| The dangers of practicing communication with AI | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:08:41 | |
We’re surrounded by AI tools that make communication feel safer and easier.But what happens to our real-life relationships when we remove allinterpersonal risk? Can fluency replace the ability to truly listen, feel, andunderstand another human being? #CommunicationPsychology #InterpersonalSkills #AIandHumanity#DigitalCommunication #RealConversations #LanguageLearning #RelationshipSkills#HumanConnection | |||
| How to learn a foreign language scientifically | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:14:58 | |
Tired of random language tips thatdon’t work? In this episode, we explore what science really says abouteffective language learning. From input and interaction to noticing andmemory—learn how to tailor your approach based on proven psychological and linguistictheories. Whether you're a beginner oradvanced learner, this episode is packed with insights to help you learnsmarter. Listen now and upgrade your languagegame!
Recommended reading
Ellis, N. C. (2006). Selective attention and transfer phenomena in SLA:Contingency, cue competition, salience, interference, overshadowing, blocking,and perceptual learning. Applied Linguistics, 27(2), 164–194.https://doi.org/10.1093/applin/aml015 Krashen, S. D. (1982). Principles and practice in second language acquisition.Pergamon Press. Mackey, A., & Goo, J. (2007). Interaction research in SLA: Ameta‐analysis and research synthesis. In Z. Han (Ed.), Understanding secondlanguage process (pp. 165–180). Saito, K., & Lyster, R. (2012). Effects of form-focused instruction andcorrective feedback on L2 pronunciation development: A meta-analysis. LanguageLearning, 62(2), 909–933. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9922.2012.00695. Swain, M. (2005). The output hypothesis: Theory and research. In E. Hinkel(Ed.), Handbook of research in second language teaching and learning(pp. 471–483). Lawrence Erlbaum. | |||
| Are there communication risks in becoming dependent on AI? | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:11:00 | |
Are we thinking more freely—or justmore alike? In this episode, I explore how remotework, virtual meetings, and even AI tools may quietly shapethe way we think and who we engage with. As our communication becomes moredigital and more filtered, are we losing the casual, diverse encounters thatonce challenged our ideas and expanded our minds? Backed by research from NatureHuman Behaviour, PNAS, and the Quarterly Journal of Economics,we dive into: If you're a leader, consultant,psychologist, or simply curious about how modern work shapes modern minds—thisone's for you. Let’s talk: Have you noticeda change in how diverse your conversations have become since working moreonline? #Podcast #RemoteWork#OrganizationalPsychology #DigitalCommunication #EchoChamber#IdeologicalBubbles #Leadership #HomeOffice #CognitiveDiversity #FutureOfWork
Recommended reading: Bail, C. A., Argyle, L. P., Brown, T. W., Bumpus, J. P., Chen, H., Hunzaker,M. F., Lee, J., Mann, M., Merhout, F., & Volfovsky, A. (2018). Exposure toopposing views on social media can increase political polarization. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,115(37), 9216–9221. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1804840115 Bloom, N., Liang, J., Roberts, J., & Ying,Z. J. (2015). Does working from home work? Evidence from a Chinese experiment. The Quarterly Journal of Economics, 130(1),165–218. https://doi.org/10.1093/qje/qjw032 Gentzkow, M., & Shapiro, J. M. (2011).Ideological segregation online and offline. TheQuarterly Journal of Economics, 126(4), 1799–1839. https://doi.org/10.1093/qje/qjr044 Pariser, E. (2011). The filter bubble: What the Internet is hiding from you. Penguin Press. Yang,L., Jaffe, S., Galinsky, A., Suri, S., & Hecht, B. (2021). Theeffects of remote work on collaboration among information workers. Nature Human Behaviour, 6(1), 43–54. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-021-01196-4 | |||
| What is psychological safety and how important is it? | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:14:27 | |
Spoiler: It is not about creating “safe spaces” or about becoming more polite. | |||
| What to do with difficult coworkers? | 09 Jun 2025 | 00:13:12 | |
How well are we equipped to navigate through conflict and workwith “difficult” people? What are some first steps you can do? | |||
| Why should we measure communication skills? | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:12:46 | |
We have an excellent culture in our company; we almost never have conflicts. Or: we know who our best communicators are – by their results. So, why invest time to measure that which we already know? | |||
| Growth or fixed mindsets in communication | 26 May 2025 | 00:12:59 | |
Carol Dweck’s theory of a growth vs. a fixed mindset has already become a part of pop psychology. What are the implications (and limits) for developing your communication skills? | |||
| How to learn a foreign language scientifically? | 26 May 2025 | 00:14:58 | |
New Podcast Episode: How to Learn a Foreign Language—Scientifically Tired of random language tips thatdon’t work? In this episode, we explore what science really says abouteffective language learning. From input and interaction to noticing andmemory—learn how to tailor your approach based on proven psychological andlinguistic theories. Whether you're a beginner oradvanced learner, this episode is packed with insights to help you learnsmarter. Listen now and upgrade your languagegame!
Recommended reading
Ellis, N. C. (2006). Selective attention and transfer phenomena in SLA:Contingency, cue competition, salience, interference, overshadowing, blocking,and perceptual learning. Applied Linguistics,27(2), 164–194. https://doi.org/10.1093/applin/aml015 Krashen, S. D. (1982). Principles andpractice in second language acquisition. Pergamon Press. Mackey, A., & Goo, J. (2007). Interactionresearch in SLA: A meta‐analysis and research synthesis. In Z. Han (Ed.), Understanding second language process (pp.165–180). Saito, K., & Lyster, R. (2012). Effects ofform-focused instruction and corrective feedback on L2 pronunciationdevelopment: A meta-analysis. LanguageLearning, 62(2), 909–933. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9922.2012.00695. Swain, M. (2005). The output hypothesis: Theory and research. In E. Hinkel(Ed.), Handbook of research in secondlanguage teaching and learning (pp. 471–483). Lawrence Erlbaum. | |||
| What if you feel you are a terrible communicator? | 19 May 2025 | 00:09:56 | |
In reality, few things in life are really black and white. However, as humans, we tend to judge in terms of dichotomies: good or bad, beautiful or ugly, success or failure. It is natural therefore to see ourselves as good or bad communicators. Of course, some of us are better, some are worse communicators. Nonetheless, what we forget is how much successful communication is situation-specific. | |||
| Self-Revelation: How Much of You Is in Every Message? | 12 May 2025 | 00:11:31 | |
Every time we speak, we reveal more than we think. Behind even the most factual statement hides a glimpse of who we are—our emotions, values, and insecurities. In this short episode, discover what Friedemann Schulz von Thun calls the Self-Revelation side of every message—and how it shapes trust, misunderstandings, and connection. Are you revealing your truth or hiding behind a polished façade? | |||
| Double bind and how to avoid it | 05 May 2025 | 00:09:42 | |
A double-bind is a situation with two options, both excludingeach other and both including a significant risk of making a mistake.
A boss tells an employee: “Be more autonomous. But alwayscoordinate with me first.” What should the employee do? | |||
| What Is the Problem with Labelling Your Employees? | 27 Oct 2025 | 00:09:26 | |
Have you ever noticed how quickly weput people into boxes? In business, labelling can feel likeclarity, but it often distorts reality. #Leadership #HR #Communication#Psychology #OrganizationalCulture #Diversity #PeopleDevelopment #Mindset#WorkplaceCulture #Coaching | |||
| Impression management tactics in conversation: Securing the home game advantage | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:12:30 | |
How often do youobserve? Please share your anecdotes. | |||
| How perfect should you really communicate? | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:13:07 | |
What are the dangers of posturing as a perfect communicator? | |||
| What is the communication square? | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:10:45 | |
Are you still communicatingjust one- or two-dimensionally? | |||
| Reversibility as a sign of respect | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:05:05 | |
How “reversable” doyou communicate? | |||
| How many words do I need to learn really? | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:05:33 | |
The inconvenienttruths are: Most of us don’t learn new words systematically and on a dailybasis. And: We really need much less words than think we need. Found out why! | |||
| What resources do you need to learn a foreign language? | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:08:55 | |
Even in a digitalworld, we will need to have some physical support for learning a language. What are the essentials? | |||
| Don’t worry about language tests early on | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:08:55 | |
At the beginning,many of us are insecure. Will I ever have success? Am I learning the correctway? Taking tests to obtain answers to those questions may actually be a verybad idea. Learn why! | |||
| How to not waste time while learning a foreign language | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:06:28 | |
Almost nobody hasenough time to learn a foreign language “thoroughly”. In this episode I willshow you how to make an audit of your daily language learning practice. | |||
| Start specific, become more general later | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:08:09 | |
Many of us believewe need to accumulate many “general” words and expressions first, before we areallowed to start learning technical vocabulary and expressions. | |||
| The problem with playing the devil’s advocate | 22 Mar 2025 | 00:05:09 | |
I am guilty of thismyself. I enjoy playing the devil’s advocate. However, in group meetings it can have detrimentaleffects. | |||
| The Four Top Mistakes Made by Job Interviewers | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:13:18 | |
Discover the top mistakes made byjob interviewers and how to avoid them to ensure a fair and effective hiringprocess. Learn why structured interviews are a game-changer and how biases likethe beauty bias can affect your decisions. Tune in to find out how you canimprove your recruitment process and attract the best talent. | |||
| What is an altruistic speaker | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:04:53 | |
Being an altruisticspeaker doesn’t mean you need to give up on your positions. Find out more! | |||
| How objective am I about my language skills | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:06:25 | |
Which of thefollowing biases is relevant for you? | |||