Persuasion Gestures: Palms Up vs Palms Down

If you ever nailed your message in a meeting—but still walked away feeling overlooked or dismissed it might not be what you’re saying, but how your body is saying it.

In this episode, Dr. Stephen Furlich, author of Nonverbal Epiphany, breaks down the silent signals that make or break your executive presence. Whether you're aiming for the C-suite, pitching ideas, or navigating workplace politics, your nonverbal communication may be working against you—or unlocking your next big opportunity.

By the end of today’s episode you’ll know:

💪How to use body language to instantly project power and confidence in meetings.

🏆Scientifically-backed ways to spot deception, power plays, and hidden cues.

🧩Practical adjustments you can make today—like posture, hand gestures, and walking speed—to feel more in control and be perceived that way too.

If you’re ready to command the room and communicate leadership without saying a word, hit play on this episode now and start mastering the science of executive presence.

If you’ve been showing up to work every day delivering results but still getting passed over for senior leadership roles, it might not be your résumé—it might be your presence. And it’s painful to know you have the skills but still not be perceived as “executive enough.”

That’s why Laura created our Executive Presence Scorecard—to help leaders-in-the-making assess their body language, vocal tone, and energy with the influence they’re ready to own.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a fantastic New Year to you all!

To get access to the Executive Presence Scorecard simply email me at hello@speakupwithlaura.com and put “score” in the subject line.

To learn more visit www.speakupwithlaura.com. New Speak Up podcast episodes come out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday early in the morning.

About our guest:

Dr. Stephen Furlich is an associate professor of communication studies at Texas A&M University-Commerce, his bestselling book Nonverbal Epiphany, and his research on human behaviors—focusing on actionable insights for improving how we "speak up" through body language, while inviting personal stories to connect.

Dr. Furlich’s most recent research interest is exploring the role of biology and communication. His perspective is that only focusing on social influences limits understanding. One's biology influences their communication and their communication influences their biological reactions.

Dr. Furlich has published two books, both of which were Amazon’s #1 bestsellers in their respective categories. Additionally, he has presented his research on national television, national radio and national podcasts. In his free time, he enjoys working out, watching sports, traveling and reading to learn more about human behaviors, spirituality and Christianity.

Get your copy of Nonverbal Epiphany today.

In Speak Up communication and executive presence coaching, high performing leaders and executives learn to enhance their influence and confidence, refining their communication style to increase visibility and effectiveness in promotion opportunities.

By honing communication skills and fostering a trusted advisor mindset, aspiring executives cultivate mastery in public speaking and beat imposter syndrome. Your leadership becomes more strategic and inspiring.