EP 155 | Listening People Down Not Talking Them Down | Matthew Hill

How do you navigate high-stakes conversations across cultures when simply opening your mouth risks offense, and what makes the first day at work the most disappointing day for top talent?

Discover the power of intercultural intelligence and authentic communication on this episode of the Work Positive Podcast with Dr. Joey Faucette. Matthew Hill, leadership trainer, intercultural facilitator, and stand-up comedian from London, reveals how to blend wit, warmth, and wisdom to create psychologically safe cultures where people can discuss difficult topics without tribal fear. Listen as Dr. Joey and Matthew explore:

☀️ Why listening for values unlocks intercultural understanding and connection ☀️ How to recruit the whole person instead of just 10% of their abilities ☀️ Simple ways to revive the extinct form of communication called discussion ☀️ Why the Socratic method breaks through polarization and echo chambers ☀️ How British humour teaches us that listening people down works better than talking

Matthew transforms how leaders approach global teams by proving that when you listen for what drives someone rather than competing or stealing ideas, you create the warmth and safety needed for extraordinary performance.

🔑 Key Insight: "When we have a heterogeneous, a mixed audience, you might as well just be yourself and be as authentic as you can. It's not about you, it's about the audience. Listen to the people you work with and take them seriously."

💡 Your DOT (Do One Thing): Practice listening for values today. Instead of competing, ignoring, or listening to steal, actively listen to understand what's driving another person. Ask "What would convince you?" to open genuine discussion.

Connect with Matthew Hill:

• Get "Learn How to Lead: Believe, Behave and Become" book on Amazon
• Visit: Presentation-skills.uk for blogs and resources
• Connect on LinkedIn: Matthew Hill - Corporate Presentation Trainer
• Discover Socratic method techniques for difficult conversations

#InterculturalLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #CivilDiscourse #WorkPositive #GlobalTeams #AuthenticCommunication

🎙️ Love the Work Positive Podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes to help others discover how to grow people and profits with a positive work culture!

🔗 Stay connected with Dr. Joey Faucette:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@workpositive7529
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjoeyfaucette/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WorkPositiveToday/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workpositive.today/

📧 Know someone who'd make a great guest on the show? Email [e-mail] with your recommendation!