Speak by Design

Visualize success. Imagine your victory lap 12 months from now. Here’s the premise: next year, you don’t just “get better.” You get strategic. You embrace AI instead of avoiding it. You deepen relationships instead of hoping visibility magically appears. You handle conflict, project updates, and hard conversations with more ease because you have a toolkit, not just good intentions. In this episode, we connect the dots: stronger meetings, sharper facilitation, more comfort in front of big audiences, and more confidence when the questions get tough. You’ll hear how to think like an executive communicator, how to deliver an executive summary, a business case, a recommendation that requires investment, and how to navigate board-level pushback without shrinking or spinning. And then we go where growth actually happens: not in your past, but in your next. Past awkward moments? Old feedback? Former stumbles? Not relevant. Focus on who you’re becoming and give yourself permission to imagine it as easier, more fun, and more impactful. A little “productive delusion” isn’t denial. It’s direction. There are acres of diamonds around you and tremendous opportunity in your current role, if you train yourself to see them. If you’re ready to build this year on purpose, join us inside Speak by Design University . Register now at speakbydesign.com/join and set up your 2026 to be supercharged—organized, supported, and already in motion. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

As you head into 2026, don’t “network.” Design. Decide on purpose who you want in your corner, who you want to learn from, and who you want to be useful to. Start with a simple constraint: 13 people. Not 30. Not a random scroll of LinkedIn. Thirteen is big enough to stretch you—and small enough to make real. In Day 11, I’ll walk you through a smarter mix: one-third strong ties (the people who already know your value), one-third weak ties (the people who can open surprising doors), and one-third “not yet” ties—people you don’t really know, but should. Think of it as a relationship portfolio: steady investments, high-upside bets, and a few bold new plays. Here’s why it matters: visibility doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Your reputation travels through people long before you enter the room. We’ll build a simple cadence: monthly or quarterly touch points, so this feels natural, not needy. You’ll learn the difference between mentors (great perspective) and sponsors (real leverage). And we’ll go beyond tactics to the four conversations real relationships can hold: business opportunity, business challenge, personal opportunity, personal challenge. Your 2026 challenge: protect 10% of your week for relationships. Watch what happens to your influence, your confidence, and your career momentum. Ready to turn this into momentum, not just a nice theory? Join Speak by Design University and build your 2026 relationship plan (and the communication skills to activate it) with structure, coaching, and a clear cadence. Register today at speakbydesign.com/join so you start the year supercharged, focused, visible, and already in motion. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Difficult conversations are coming for you in 2026. Not “maybe.” Not “if.” Your team member who keeps missing the mark. Your leader who wants answers, not excuses. A client who suddenly sounds disappointed. In Day 10 of the 12 Days of Readiness, we take those moments off the “dread” list and move them onto your “I’ve got this” list. Discover how to manage the conversation in your own head first, so you stop over-personalizing what is simply about mission, goals, and process. You’ll hear how to set clear expectations without rambling, control your face and body so you don’t look harsher than you feel, and swap dramatic, negative language for values-based, forward-looking phrases that people can actually act on. You’ll also learn one tiny word that instantly lowers defensiveness: curious. Used with a calm, almost playful tone, it lets you ask the hardest questions without triggering a fight. This is one of our monthly topics inside Speak by Design University, where we’ll go even deeper with role plays and improvisation on your real difficult conversations. Registration for Speak by Design University 2026 is open at speakbydesign.com/join . If you’d like a sponsorship packet to share with your company, email [email protected] and we’ll send you materials to help you get internal approval. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Project management isn’t just Gantt charts and timelines. It’s the way you talk about the work. In 2026, the leaders who rise fastest will be the ones who can communicate the clearest: what’s done, what’s stuck, and what needs to change without drama or defensiveness. That’s the heart of this episode. Turn project updates into leadership moments: using “on track/off track” as standard language, giving status updates that are crisp and actionable, and cutting the rambling that quietly erodes your credibility. You’ll hear how to ask sharper questions without putting people on edge, and how to make escalation feel safe, expected, and part of how high-performing teams operate. Strong project communication builds trust, accelerates progress, and prevents surprises. It’s one of the clearest signals that you’re ready for bigger responsibilities and a core theme inside the Speak by Design University program. How you speak is how you lead. Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Can your team repeat your 2026 strategy in one breath? That’s the real test of whether your strategy is truly clear or just trapped on a slide deck. In Day 8 of our 12 Days of Readiness for 2026 series , we dig into the hidden skill behind every great strategy: how you talk about it. In this episode, we explore: Why strategic clarity becomes essential as you rise How to turn your 2026 strategy into words people remember—and repeat The alignment test: does your message really support your CEO’s direction? How to tell the story of your strategy so people actually want to follow it Registration is NOW OPEN for our 2026 Speak by Design University program. If you’re ready to transform your skills and reach new heights, take a look: www.speakbydesign.com/join . It’s our year-long leadership communication program with: A tailored private coaching plan Cohort support meetings monthly On-demand learning at your finger tips And every month, you add a new, high-impact communication asset to your portfolio. Registration closes December 31st. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Just like professionals refresh their wardrobe, we also need to refresh our virtual studios to match our personal brand. Today is devoted to your virtual communication, how your on-screen presence either amplifies or undermines the impact you’re working so hard to make. If you want to accelerate your career in 2026, you will need to boost your on-camera technique. When your virtual meetings are as effective as your in-person meetings, you save time and money and dramatically expand your reach. Imagine how much wider your network becomes when you can connect globally with confidence. High-visibility professionals need strong on-camera technique: your background, colors, and contrast shape what people notice first, and your setup quietly sends signals about your credibility before you ever speak. In this episode, I walk you through the visual and structural choices that shape how others experience you on screen: from lighting, audio, and framing to the subtle habits that weaken or strengthen your presence. You’ll hear how to upgrade your virtual space so it feels intentional, aligned with your brand, and worthy of the opportunities you’re pursuing. Great virtual communication doesn’t happen by accident; it’s created thoughtfully, consistently, and with a clear point of view about how you want to be experienced. How you speak is how you lead. Want to join us in 2026? We start in January. Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and on-demand learning. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Welcome to Day 6 of the 12 Days of Readiness. Today we’re focusing on something every leader needs but few ever measure well: your impact as a communicator. One of the best career practices you can build is updating your manager or evaluator 2–4 times a year on how you’re growing – and to do that well, you need clear signs that your communication is actually working. In this episode, I walk you through the subtle, but powerful, indicators that your communication is landing: why influence shows up first in behavioral shifts, not dashboards; how to tell whether people understand and act on your direction; what it means when others start using your phrases and language; the surprising signals that people are truly listening; why improving your on-camera presence dramatically expands your reach; and how we help you assess your progress inside the new 2026 tracks. Measuring impact is not about perfection. It’s about noticing the evidence that you are moving people, aligning them, and inspiring them consistently, and using that data to tell a clear growth story to your leaders. Registration for Speak by Design University 2026 is now open at speakbydesign.com/join . If you’re ready to turn these daily insights into a full year of deliberate practice, this is your moment to step in. The program combines 4 pillars of learning: with private coaching, cohort support, and a portfolio of powerful communications. We built this with our coaches from what we have seen be the most transformative moments with clients. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Your relationship with your boss is one of the most powerful forces shaping your career: more than your title, your projects, or the org chart. In this Day 5 episode of the 12 Days of Readiness, we flip the script on “managing up” by starting where influence actually begins: your thoughts about the person you report to. How you see your leader quietly determines how you show up with them. Look for what’s true and positive about your boss: their experience, the complexity they manage, the invisible stress they carry and then align your behavior with that perspective. That mental reset leads to practical changes: shorter emails, clearer asks, cleaner links, proactive reminders, helpful suggestions, and well-timed recognition that lands on their hardest days. When you make it your mission to help your leader be successful, you bring more energy than you take — and the dynamic shifts for both of you. This episode helps you build that kind of relationship on purpose. Registration is now open for the 2026 Speak by Design University program at speakbydesign.com/join. www.speakbydesign.com/join . We will close registration December 31st at midnight. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

High-stakes moments define careers. In Day 4 of the 12 Days of Readiness series, Stephanie Bickel shows you how to communicate with clarity and authority when the spotlight is brightest—on stage, on panels, in media interviews, and in recorded settings where your message lives far beyond the room. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why larger audiences become easier when you center the message—not yourself How to design content that shines in high-visibility environments A simple sequence for crafting strong executive messages How data strengthens credibility and logical flow What leaders must prepare for when facing media-style questions This is your blueprint for showing up clear, composed, and compelling when it matters most. Enrollment for Speak by Design University 2026 opens December 1. Join the waitlist to get first access. www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our 2026 leadership communication experience that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Great leaders are great storytellers. In Day 3 of the 12 Days of Readiness series, Stephanie Bickel reveals why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools in leadership communication—and how the right story, told well, can shape how people think, feel, and act in 2026. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why your personal story builds trust and credibility A simple structure for telling concise, compelling stories The five stories every leader needs for a successful 2026 Why new stories influence more than old ones How to position yourself as the guide, not the hero If you want your message to stick and your leadership to resonate, start by sharpening your stories. Enrollment for Speak by Design University 2026 opens soon. Learn more and join the waitlist. www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Executive presence isn’t a title. It’s a set of behaviors. In Day 2 of the 12 Days of Readiness series, Stephanie Bickel breaks down what it truly means to show up with clarity, credibility, and calm authority in 2026’s highest-stakes rooms. We cover: The four behaviors that instantly elevate senior presence Why stillness, posture, and gesture drive trust How facial expression and eye contact project confidence What to remove from your language to sound more senior How to tell stories that influence decisions and move people forward Let 2026 be the year you communicate with more poise, power, and intention. Enrollment for Speak by Design University 2026 opens December 1st. speakbydesign.com/join Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Lead your 2026 like it matters. This Day 1 episode of the 12 Days of Readiness series is your reset: we focus on the one thing that separates exceptional leaders from everyone else—habits. In this short, powerful lesson, Stephanie walks you through how great leaders think, plan, and move so that 2026 becomes a year of clarity, confidence, and real momentum. You’ll learn: Why leadership begins with a point of view, not a job title How mission, vision, and values create clarity for your entire team The four sources of strong decision-making A simple lens for choosing the right type of solution How great leaders set goals that motivate people all year long If you want to show up in 2026 as a more decisive, intentional, and trusted leader, start with the habits that quietly shape everything else. Registration for Speak by Design University 2026 opens December 1. Want to be first in line? Join the waitlist at www.speakbydesign.com/join . This isn’t a "check the box" program. It’s a new category of development: a full leadership communication system that combines tailored private coaching, a cohort at your level, and our 12 signature trainings on demand. You won’t just “take a course.” You’ll build a living portfolio of messages, stories, and strategies that change how you lead every day in 2026. There’s nothing else like it, because we built it with our clients to replace the one-off workshops and disconnected trainings that just don’t move the needle anymore. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What happens after the conflict is often more damaging than the conflict itself. Most of us retreat, replay the moment endlessly, or vent to the wrong people—quietly eroding trust and making repair feel impossible. In this episode, you’ll learn how to bounce back stronger with simple mindset shifts, powerful self-talk, and a heart-to-heart approach that restores confidence and connection. Tune in to build real resilience for the toughest conversations at work. How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When the disagreement happens, how do you show up? Are you frowning? Raising your voice? Or cowering? The difference between leaders who crumble and those who command calm isn’t temperament. It’s a practiced mindset. Conflict doesn’t have to drain you; it can define you. The most influential leaders turn tense moments into turning points. In this lesson, we explore how to rise above the heat and handle disagreement with ease. You’ll walk away thinking differently about conflict and maybe even proud when people disagree with you. Speak by Design University begins again January 1, 2026, with registration opening December 1. Join the waitlist now at speakbydesign.com/join Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do great leaders create lasting communication habits? If you have followed all 50 lessons you are now wondering, " How do I take what I've learned and turn it into lasting change?" Start with believing the change is possible and then build your desire for change. Want to deliver clearer updates, craft more compelling stories, and exude confidence every time you speak. You’ll learn the proven steps to developing new communication habits—starting today—and hear inspiring stories of how others have elevated their skills. While this is the end of the lesson series; it’s the beginning of your practicum. Now, practice is required to create those new habits. *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. If you register by December 31st, you will receive the full Anniversary plan in its entirety and the discounts. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do you define a great coach? Is it someone who simply listens, or someone who motivates, guides, and teaches with clarity? In this lesson, we unpack the art of coaching—an essential skill for everyone, regardless of their role. Whether you're managing a team, working across departments, or guiding a peer, coaching is your chance to inspire growth and impact at every level. Join us as we explore the five pivotal coaching moments in professional relationships. From establishing rapport to setting growth expectations, providing actionable feedback, and mastering the art of listening during vulnerable moments, this episode is packed with practical strategies to elevate your coaching game. Learn how to transform your feedback into motivation, avoid common pitfalls, and design the future you want for yourself and those around you. Don’t miss this dynamic conversation—it’s time to coach with clarity and compassion. *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Did you know the best coach you'll ever have is already with you—every moment of every day? It’s you. We’ll show you how to master the art of self-coaching, turning that critical inner voice into your greatest cheerleader. Through real-world scenarios and actionable strategies, we dive into what it means to truly coach yourself. Learn how to replace self-doubt with confidence, move past mistakes with resilience, and develop the kind of nurturing inner dialogue that fuels growth. We’ll guide you through five transformative steps to quiet self-criticism, focus on progress, and unlock a stronger, more self-assured version of you. This is your moment to take control of your mindset and embrace the powerful leader within. Don’t miss this empowering episode—it’s time to become your own greatest coach. *** **This is the last month to take advantage of the Anniversary Year discounts for Speak by Design University. We've designed an amazing array of lessons and trainings to grow your leadership communication skills. Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Coaching Great Writing as a Leadership Skill Leaders, here’s a reality check: the presentation may impress in the moment, but it’s the written word that endures. Your emails, memos, and documents are what people reference, share, and rely on long after the meeting is over. That’s why great leaders don’t just write well—they coach their teams to write with clarity, impact, and precision. In this episode, we’re giving you the tools to level up your own writing and guide your team to do the same. Discover how to master the 3S model of great writing: strategy , structure , and style . From crafting an outline that sets the foundation, to using vigorous language that eliminates fluff, we’re sharing actionable tips to make every word count. Whether you’re helping a team member refine their message or shaping a critical communication for your organization, these tips and tricks will transform the way you approach the written word. Tune in and learn how to create writing that’s clear, compelling, and built to last! *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sharing communication pet peeves with co-workers strengthens relationships and elevates communication immediately. This does more than formal performance reviews! Do you know what gets under your skin when someone speaks or communicates? More importantly, do you know what gets under your audience's skin? In this lesson, we explore the fascinating—and sometimes hilarious—world of communication pet peeves. From overused buzzwords like "manifest" and "robust" to distracting filler words and emails longer than a smartphone screen, we explore how these quirks can derail connection and productivity. But here’s the twist: these pet peeves aren’t just nuisances; they’re opportunities for self-awareness and growth. Join us as we share real-life stories from leadership teams and explore how opening up about communication pet peeves can lead to stronger relationships, clearer messaging, and even a bit of team bonding. You’ll learn how to identify your own communication blind spots, give and receive constructive feedback, and turn those pesky pet peeves into a playful and productive tool for personal development. Don't miss this lighthearted yet transformative conversation—it might just change the way you communicate forever! *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Have you ever stopped to think about your own communication preferences? Do you expect email replies within hours? Do you prefer phone, video, email, or in person meetings? Or maybe you dread the ambiguous "check-in call" on your calendar? Here's the thing: unspoken preferences often lead to unnecessary friction and misunderstandings within teams. Leaders need to discuss communication styles with peers and team members openly—especially when working with new hires or cross-functional teams. You'll learn how small adjustments, like renaming meeting titles or sharing pre-reads in advance, can dramatically improve team dynamics and decision-making. Discover the questions every leader should ask to streamline communication and create a more collaborative, productive, and enjoyable workplace. Take this step to remove friction—your team will thank you. How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at our 25th Anniversary Edition of Speak by Design University. Register by December 31st to partake in Your Most Powerful Year: www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When you understand how power dynamics work, you can improve relationships around you immediately. This works at every level of the organization. Learn how to re-balance the power in one-on-one relationships. Maybe you need to give more power to your team members or take some power back. We will examine seven sources of power—from authority and expertise to charisma and knowledge of organizational goals—and learn how to assess and leverage them in your unique work relationships. We'll also explore common workplace politics and how to recognize when it’s not just a feeling but a real barrier. With practical insights on handling exclusion, feeling set up to fail, or lacking visibility, you'll learn to shift your mindset and take action. Whether it's building your own authority or helping your leader feel more empowered, this episode offers tools to reclaim control and foster stronger, more balanced connections in your professional life. ***** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leaders, make your words count. Great leaders don’t clutter their speech with unnecessary descriptors or softening phrases. Instead, they use simple, clear language that sticks, crafting messages that are easily memorizable and impactful. In this episode, we delve into the art of choosing powerful words and positioning negative language to drive change without overwhelming your audience. Discover how to use language that inspires action and shapes culture. You'll learn how to identify phrases that weaken your message and replace them with assertive, forward-moving words. From avoiding "ly" adverbs and filler phrases to embracing bold verbs and positive language, this discussion explores the subtleties of leadership language. Tune in to transform your words into tools of influence and set a higher standard for yourself and those around you. Make every word count – your team and vision deserve it. *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Do you feel like your meetings are missing the mark? You're not alone! Do you want to design meetings that improve culture and drive better business results? In this lesson, you'll discover how to transform your gatherings into memorable, impactful experiences that people will actually enjoy—and remember for years to come. Through real-life stories of leaders who mastered the art of gathering, you'll learn how to foster connection, creativity, and collaboration among your team. We'll walk you through the three essential elements of a great meeting: thoughtful planning, interactive facilitation, and surprise factors. Whether you're hosting a brainstorming session, strategy meeting, or a cultural team-building event, this lesson will give you the tools to create gatherings that inspire action, strengthen relationships, and leave everyone talking long after it's over. Get ready to make your meetings the highlight of your team's week! *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Do you have disengaged colleagues? Maybe some apathetic folks? This lesson is about the leader's ability to empower their team to create the culture. It’s not about dictating the values and hoping the team falls in line. It's about empowering each team member to actively shape the culture they want to thrive in. You’ll hear real-life examples of how we’ve helped organizations and teams take ownership of their values, using simple yet profound exercises that spark motivation and align everyone toward a common vision. Wondering how you can move apathetic team members from passive to proactive? This lesson will equip you with practical strategies to foster engagement, drive ownership, and breathe new life into your team’s shared culture. Dive in and learn how you can make your team the change they wish to see. How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Unlock Your Team's Full Potential with Better Communication In this lesson, learn how to increase team effectiveness through communication and deeper relationships. If you've ever wondered how to inspire your team to work better together, maintain momentum, and even accelerate their productivity, this lesson is for you. We’ll explore how improving the relationships between team members—and between you and your team—can dramatically impact overall performance. Strong team dynamics lead to greater collaboration, innovation, and an energized work culture. We’ll also cover strategies for overcoming common challenges, such as negative beliefs that create distance between peers. Learn how to change the way you think about your team to foster connection and trust, and how small actions, like introducing personal recognition and organizing meaningful team activities, can transform the way your team operates. Tune in to this episode to discover actionable insights for turning your team into a high-performing, cohesive unit! *** How you speak is how you lead. Want to study this with other leaders? Take a look at www.speakbydesign.com/join . That's our leadership communication program that includes private, group, and self-paced learning for every learning style. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.