Masters of Scale How to think faster and talk smarter, with Matt Abrahams
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Apr 2, 2026 
Matt Abrahams, communication expert and Stanford lecturer who teaches techniques for managing speaking anxiety. He explores why anxiety happens and simple tools to manage nerves. He shares practice routines, pitch tips that start with the audience, strategies for meetings and facilitation, and ways to prepare for big talks and recover if you blank.
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Experienced Lawyer Still Vomited Before Court
- Matt Abrahams recalls a public defender who vomited before court every day despite decades of experience.
- The story illustrates that communication anxiety persists even in seasoned professionals and is part of being human.
Use Paraphrasing To Deepen Conversations
- Do practice active listening with paraphrasing to build connection and encourage others to share more.
- Matt Abrahams teaches students to paraphrase and ask 'tell me more' to give conversational partners confidence to expand.
Use Calendar Invites To Set Meeting Expectations
- Do use calendar invites to set expectations and title meetings with clear active goals.
- Matt Abrahams puts a starting question or challenge in every invite so attendees arrive prepared to contribute.