There are few things in life more fulfilling than a thought-provoking or heartfelt conversation with another human being. But, how many of us exercise our voice muscles by speaking authentically and with conviction? How many of us are truly curious about what someone else has to say? If we do not listen to different points of view, how do we know if our message is accepted or resonates with others? To discover the intimate nuances of conversation and collaboration, Positive Psychology Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with two authors who teach the art of communication. Sought-after voice coach Denise Woods talks about her book, The Power of Voice, and shares insights on how we can become better communicators. And conflict resolution expert, Jim Tamm describes the key elements of how to perfect the art of listening and the reason people use defensiveness as a communication style from his book, Radical Collaboration.

Denise Woods is a graduate and former faculty member of The Juilliard School, and a long-time faculty member of California Institute of the Arts. One of the nation’s most sought-after voice and dialect coaches, her clients include such luminaries as Halle Berry, Will Smith, Queen Latifah, Taye Diggs, Ray Liotta, Laurence Fishburne, Jessica Chastain, Taraji P. Henson, Mahershala Ali, Idris Elba, and many others. 

Book: The Power of Voice: A Guide to Making Yourself Heard

Jim Tamm is a former judge and an expert on dispute resolution and building collaborative relationships. mediated more than 1,000 employment disputes during his 25 years as a senior administrative law judge for the state of California. James is currently managing director of the international consulting firm Business Consultants Network, Inc. 

Book: Radical Collaboration: Five Essential Skills to Overcome Defensiveness and Build Successful Relationships 

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