243. Rethinks: How Lessons from Neuroscience Can Help You Communicate Confidently

In this Rethinks episode of the Think Fast Talk Smart podcast, Matt Abrahams interviews Andrew Huberman, a neurobiology professor at Stanford, about the neuroscience of communication confidence. Huberman shares insights on managing fear and anxiety related to public speaking, detailing how the body's physiological responses to excitement and nervousness are similar and controllable. They discuss techniques such as reframing anxiety as excitement, using eye movements to suppress the amygdala, and employing specific breathing exercises (physiological sighs) to calm the nervous system in real-time. Huberman also emphasizes preparing for stressful situations by deliberately exposing oneself to heightened alertness through practices like cold showers. The conversation touches on virtual communication, advising against constant self-viewing and recommending a balance of direct gaze and averted gaze for better connection. Huberman concludes by sharing his communication advice: speak to inform and teach, not to impress, and highlights the importance of passion, structure, and clarity in successful communication.