Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Championships are won through communication.

Show Notes

Tara VanDerveer has more wins than any other coach in NCAA basketball history. But as she says, motivating and leading teams isn’t about barking orders. Communication, she says, “It starts, number one, with listening.”
For VanDerveer, leadership isn’t about a power dynamic, but a collaboration between her and her team. “I can't do it by myself and they can't do it by themselves. But as a team, we can,” she says. From seeking opinions from her assistant coaches to connecting with players about life outside the gym, VanDerveer recognizes that championships are won through communication. “The relationships that you have with your players, the communication that you have with them, will determine your success as a coach,” she says.
In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, VanDerveer and host Matt Abrahams explore more communication insights from on and off the court — being clear and concise, giving praise and positive feedback, and letting go of perfectionism.

Episode Reference Links:
  • Stanford Cardinal Profile: Website 
  • Ep.102 Create Presence: How to Communicate in a Way Others Can Feel Website / YouTube 
  • Ep.35 Leading From The Hot Seat: How To Communicate Under Pressure Website / YouTube 

Connect:

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest Tara VanDerveer, former Stanford University basketball coach.
(00:00:59) Building Trust and Openness
Fostering an environment where players feel comfortable being challenged and pushing themselves.
(00:01:52) Communicating Under Pressure
Strategies for speaking clearly and concisely during crucial moments in games.
(00:05:24) Motivation and Focus
Motivating a team during challenging times and keeping them focused after successes.
(00:07:26) The Value of Routine
The value and impact of routines in practice and performance.
(00:09:01) Positive Feedback and Praise
Balancing constructive criticism with positive feedback to foster player growth.
(00:10:46) Taking Risks
Insights on taking risks in career and coaching strategies.
(00:12:56) Dual Role of Coaching
The dual role of a coach in ensuring both athletic and personal growth for players.
(00:14:11) Handling Turnover and Onboarding
Managing player turnover and integrating new team members.
(00:16:39) Managing Emotions
Techniques for staying calm and focused during high-emotion situations.
(00:17:55) Handling Mistakes and Staying Positive
Methods for helping players move past mistakes and stay focused.
(00:19:35) Equity in Sports
Addressing and advocating for equity between women's and men's sports.
(00:21:21) Final Three Questions
Tara shares how to accept praise, two communicators she admires, and her recipe for successful communication.
(00:26:30) Conclusion

Creators & Guests

Host
Matt Abrahams
Lecturer Stanford University Graduate School of Business | Think Fast Talk Smart podcast host

What is Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques?

One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication.
Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges.

Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships.

Tune in every Tuesday for new episodes. Subscribe now to unlock your potential as a thoughtful, impactful communicator. Learn more and sign up for our eNewsletter at fastersmarter.io.