This month, we're exploring the 'empty boat' mindset parable and how it relates to effective communication and relationship building.

The parable basically states that if an empty boat runs into yours, you navigate around it. But if someone is in that boat, you tend to react negatively, even though the same situation occurred.

We discuss the importance of:

1. Separating intent from impact
2. Responding not reacting
3. Assuming positive (or neutral) intent
4. Focusing on understanding vs. placing blame
5. Creating safety so relationships can thrive

Approaching interactions as if they are "empty boats" allows you to have more control over your reactions and emotions.

Sometimes the hardest people to coach aren’t those who struggle with communication; it's the ones who think they’ve already mastered it. Not because they lack skill, but because their blind spots are often more ingrained.

In this episode, we'll take years of experience and explore:

• The Blind Spots of “Good Communicators” — from dominating conversations to resisting change.
• Coaching Without Clashing with Ego — using rapport, curiosity, and concrete evidence to open minds.
• Common Pitfalls — like over-talking, under-listening, or failing to adapt to different audiences.
• Shifting the Mindset — reframing communication as a lifelong practice, not something you 'complete'.

Whether you lead, manage, or mentor, you’ll learn practical ways to help even your best communicators keep getting better.

Some organizations have excellent communication cultures, while others struggle in this area.

The organizations that have it down tend to do 3 things:

1. They have access to communicate with anyone within the organization, no matter their title or role.
2. They focus on development opportunities.
3. They lead with a growth mindset, and their leaders "walk the talk".

Listen along for more details on each of these topics and what you can do, either as a leader or an individual, to identify opportunities within each space.

The sooner an organization or team can create a culture of good, open communication, the more successful they'll be.