#235: Think Faster, Talk Smarter in the Moment – Matt Abrahams

[33:17] Spontaneous or impromptu speaking—or Table Topics, as we practice it in Toastmasters—is something that we have to do every day. Returning to the podcast for the 5th time, we welcome Matt Abrahams, an expert whose name has been synonymous with Spontaneous Speaking from a ripe young age. Matt has dedicated his career to assisting others with their communication. In this episode, we talk with Matt about Mindset and Message—two critical elements of spontaneous speaking.

You'll hear why Matt suggests you "dare to be dull," plus receive tips on removing unnecessary filler words and understanding "what's needed." Matt also provides simple structures you can use to sharpen your message.

Our conversation stems from Matt's article Think Faster and Talk Smarter to Hone Your Spontaneous Speaking, which appears in the September 2023 issue of the Toastmaster Magazine. You can find it there on September 1st.

Matt is also presenting an educational on the topic at the 2023 Toastmasters International Convention, which you can catch in person or by registering for the virtual convention. 

If you've enjoyed this episode, you can find a continued conversation with Matt Abrahams in a special cross-over podcast at ToastCaster.com TC176: Think Faster, Talk Smarter—A Deeper Dive – Matt Abrahams where we take a further look at techniques in specific situations.

Matt Abrahams is a leading expert in communication with decades of experience as an educator, author, podcast host, and coach. As a Lecturer at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business, he teaches popular classes in strategic communication and effective virtual presenting. Matt’s online talks garner millions of views and he hosts the popular, award-winning podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast. He is the author of Speaking Up Without Freaking Out and the soon-to-be released Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You’re Put on the Spot. 

You can reach Matt and get his book at MattAbrahams.com. You can also find him on LinkedIn.

See Andrew Huberman's video on Reducing Stress & Anxiety with a Physiological Sigh (mentioned on the show).

Find additional resources from Matt Abrahams at FasterSmarter.io.