When I was at McKinsey Japan, we had a global training for communication specialists. We all had to "perform" at the closing party. I sang 氷雨 with a twist. I alternated each Japanese line that I sang with an English translation! My favorite was ...
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The Weak Words Undermining Your Leadership Presence
A different way to improve communication skills “I broke this in the first 48 hours.” That’s what my Japanese client said to me as she showed me her bracelet on our coaching call. We’d been working on removing from her communication several words that lowered her...
5 Leadership Lessons on Confidence, Communication, and Letting Go
A mindset shift from my recent podcast chat Did you know July 15 is National Give Something Away Day? It just happened that on that day, I was interviewed on a livestream of the Matcha with Jason Podcast, in collaboration with the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan....
How Long Does It Take To Speak Up?
A leadership story and lesson I’ll never forget Greetings from the UK! I’m in Yorkshire for a few weeks, visiting parents with my daughter and her boyfriend (husband is home with the cat). You might think I’m escaping the heat of the Japan summer, but it was 33...
What Would You Say To Your Future Self?
Last week, I had the privilege of leading a 1-day workshop for female leaders at a stunning offsite in Hokkaido—Niki Hills Winery (highly recommend a visit!).The day before, I was treated to a winery tour and tasting. But the most memorable part? Seeing...
The Truth Behind My TEDx Talk (And 3 Presentation Tips For You)
Have you ever given a presentation that didn’t go as planned? Maybe you had problems with the slides, your mind went blank, or something else threw you off? If so, you’re not alone. Even experienced speakers face challenges—and I certainly did during my...
Ice Baths Or Presentations: How To Calm Your Nerves
Have you ever had an ice bath?I took the plunge on a recent family holiday to Thailand.This is something I thought I’d never do. I thought people who did it were mad. Even though I’d heard the benefits of improved circulation and sleep, reduced inflammation and...
Declutter Your Slides And Engage Your Audience With Danshari-Inspired Presentation Design
If you use presentation slides in your work, how much time do you spend creating them? How confident are you that they convey your message clearly? How engaging and persuasive are your slides? Since my early days as a “communication specialist” with McKinsey Japan,...
The Key To Break Through Language Limitations As An Adult
Have you struggled with language learning as an adult?Or have you ever given up on something else you wanted to do because someone told you it wasn’t possible?English Pronunciation Expert and Coach Aiko Hemingway shared in her recent TEDx Talk at Huntington Beach how...
The Most Effective Way To Use A Laser Pointer
Have you been in a presentation where the speaker is using a laser pointer? This could be in person or online. You see that little red dot shakily attempting to underline a phrase, whizzing from one side of the screen to the other, and even twirling in circles. Have...
3 Ways To Save Time Practicing Presentations
If you’re like many busy business professionals, you’re rushing to finish your presentation slides at the last minute and definitely don’t have time to practice your delivery. Sound familiar? Here’s the problem… Your slides may be logical, comprehensive, and...
Do You Really Need To Say “Sorry”?
I was on a call to confirm details about an upcoming corporate speaking engagement. Since we were meeting online for the first time, everyone briefly introduced themselves. I was struck by how each of the Japanese women immediately apologized or put themselves down in...