Most people think communication is about sounding smart.

But what if the real secret is learning how to make people feel heard?

In today’s episode of The SMARTA Podcast, I sit down with Deborah Riegel, executive coach, leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, and author for a powerful conversation about confidence, difficult conversations, emotional intelligence, and the communication skills nobody teaches you in school.

This episode is packed with practical advice that can completely transform the way you lead, connect, and communicate.

We talk about why people struggle with feedback, how to become a better listener, why curiosity changes conversations, and the small communication habits that can strengthen relationships both personally and professionally.

If you’ve ever overthought a difficult conversation, struggled to express yourself clearly, or wanted to communicate with more confidence and authenticity this episode is for you.

Because great communication isn’t about perfection.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why communication starts with listening, not speaking

• How curiosity can transform difficult conversations

• The biggest mistakes people make when giving feedback

• Why emotional intelligence matters more than ever

• How to communicate with more confidence and clarity

• The difference between reacting and responding

• Practical tools for stronger relationships and leadership

Who Is Deborah Riegel?

Deborah Riegel is a leadership communication expert, keynote speaker, executive coach, and educator who helps individuals and organisations improve how they communicate, lead, and connect with others.

She is known for her work on feedback, communication strategy, emotional intelligence, and leadership development.

You can find Deb through her books, speaking engagements, workshops, LinkedIn, and professional coaching platforms.

In this episode:

00:00 – Welcome

02:12 – Why Communication Is More Than Words

05:30 – The Biggest Communication Mistakes People Make

09:18 – Listening vs Waiting to Speak

13:42 – How Curiosity Changes Conversations

17:50 – Why Feedback Feels So Personal

22:14 – Difficult Conversations at Work & In Life

27:08 – Emotional Intelligence & Leadership

31:45 – Confidence in Communication

36:20 – Responding Instead of Reacting

40:06 – The Power of Empathy

44:18 – Advice for Young Professionals

47:42 – Deb’s Definition of Success

50:00 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways

If this episode made you think differently about communication, leadership, or relationships, share it with someone who needs to hear it.

Subscribe to The SMARTA Podcast for conversations with world-class experts, authors, and leaders.

And next time you walk into a conversation:

Listen fully.

Lead with curiosity.

And remember, people may forget your words, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.