Every great speech is an energy journey. Here’s why the best speakers don’t start at 100%. [Thursday: Speak on the Shoulders of Giants]

One of the oldest principles in communication is surprisingly simple: People are more likely to follow someone who first makes them feel understood. This doesn’t mean copying people’s personalities or pretending to feel emotions you don’t genuinely have. It simply means acknowledging where they already are. Think about a good friend comforting someone who’s upset. […]