The SIXCOMMS Podcast

Lisa Partridge

The Six Cs in SIXCOMMS stand for: Connection, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Customization and Consistency. I'm Lisa, your host, and I believe these are the key ingredients to effective communication. Now more than ever, we need to put human connection first when communicating across all channels and platforms. This podcast explores all things to do with communicating in a work environment now. You will be able to pick up tips and techniques that will help you improve the way you communicate with yourself and others. Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/Email me at: lisa@sixcomms.org

  1. Episode 80: The Power of the Six Cs in Podcasting

    28-10-2025

    Episode 80: The Power of the Six Cs in Podcasting

    Send us a text We’re celebrating 80 episodes of The SIXCOMMS Podcast! A huge thank-you to all my incredible guests and to you, our listeners from around the world. Your curiosity and support is very much appreciated. It’s amazing to think it all began with me, a complete novice, walking around my local reservoir, inspired by other podcasters and deciding to just hit record! From those first 10 episodes with close friends (including my dad!) to co-hosting a season with the brilliant Melanie Staunton, spotlighting inspiring voices from Singapore, and interviewing talented authors and seasoned speakers, it’s been an incredible learning journey. One thing has stayed constant: my curiosity about the Six Cs of Effective Communication and how they can help us all become better communicators. In this milestone episode, I share six key lessons from podcasting, viewed through the lens of the Six Cs, along with practical tips to help you start, grow, or strengthen your own podcast with authenticity and impact. Tune in, celebrate with me, and let me know which episode or guest has inspired you most! Timestamps: 00:00:55 - The Six C's of Effective Communication 00:01:17 - The Story Behind the Podcast 00:03:05 - Connection 00:03:47 - Tip 1: Chemistry Test Call 00:04:08 - Curiosity 00:04:31 - Tip 2: Channeled Curiosity 00:04:52 - Compassion 00:05:23 - Tip 3: Thoughtful Gestures 00:06:07 - Clarity 00:06:28 - Tip 4: Preparing Thoroughly 00:07:00 - Customization 00:07:11 - Tip 5: Audience Profile 00:07:22 - Consistency 00:07:42 - Tip 6: Realistic Scheduling 00:08:04 - Recap of Six Tips 00:08:25 - Applying the Six C's Beyond Podcasting 00:09:39 - Reflection Questions Resources:  Download your 6 Cs to a Thriving Communicator guide and subscribe to our monthly email newsletter: here! Tune into Episode 70:  How We Make Conversations Count: Learning Through Podcasting  Happy listening! Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/ Email: lisa@sixcomms.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sixcomms_podcast/ If you’d prefer to watch episodes, check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025 Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    11 min
  2. Episode 79: Top Tips to Nail Your Pitch with Kirun Goy

    19-09-2025

    Episode 79: Top Tips to Nail Your Pitch with Kirun Goy

    Send us a text If you're looking to enhance your presentation skills and make a lasting impression, this episode is a must-listen!  Kirun's curiosity sits at the intersection of brain science, leadership, and education to nudge how people feel, think and act. Having delivered over 1400 keynotes and workshops reaching over 100,000 professionals worldwide, he gives practical tools to help leaders navigate themselves, their teams, and organisations with intention. He's the host of the BrainTools Podcast, making cognitive science actionable and is a Senior Facilitator with Harvard Business Publishing; bridging leadership theory and practice with Fortune 500 companies. Here are just a couple of tips Kirun shares:  The Power of the Expectation Gap: Kiran shares the importance of breaking the audience's expectations during a pitch. By doing something unexpected, like starting with reasons not to invest, speakers can capture attention and create a memorable experience. This principle can be applied not just in pitches but in all forms of communication! The Importance of Curiosity: a powerful quote from Harvard professor Clayton Christensen: "Without a good question, an answer has no place to live." This highlights the significance of curiosity in our interactions. By asking the right questions and genuinely seeking to understand our audience, we can tailor our pitches to meet their needs and foster a deeper connection. Curiosity not only enhances our communication but also opens the door to new insights and opportunities. Post-listening reflection question: How might you apply the idea of the “expectation gap” to your own pitches, presentations, or everyday communication? Timestamps: 00:01:55 - Memorable Pitches and the Expectation Gap 00:03:21 - Structuring a Clear and Compelling Pitch 00:04:55 - The Importance of Emotional Connection 00:07:27 - Engaging with Numbers in a Pitch 00:09:43 - Using Hot Button Words Effectively 00:12:23 - Common Mistakes in Pitching 00:13:52 - The Power of Premortems 00:15:56 - Leveraging Micro-Commitments 00:16:08 - Enhancing Pitches with Body Language and Tone 00:19:36 - Balancing Authenticity and Preparation 00:22:27 - Techniques for Staying Confident and Adaptable 00:26:32 - Recap of Key Techniques Resources:  Download the 6Cs of a Thriving Communicator Guide here! Brain Tools Podcast: https://braintools.podbean.com/ Persuade Better with Brain Science  Build Confidence with Brain Science  Connect with Kirun:  Website: https://www.kirungoy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirungoy/ Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/ Email: lisa@sixcomms.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025 Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    30 min
  3. Episode 78: Decoding Executive Presence with Sharmini Suthan

    15-08-2025

    Episode 78: Decoding Executive Presence with Sharmini Suthan

    Send us a text If you’ve heard of Executive Presence and aren’t really sure what it is and how it can help you, this episode is for you! Sharmini Suthan has 30 years of experience sculpting confident communicators and is the Managing Partner at BeInClarity. She’s a Master Trainer for the globally renowned Think on Your Feet® programme and an accredited practitioner for SoundWave® Global. Here are just a couple of takeaways from our conversation:  The Framework of Executive Presence: Appearance accounts for only 5% of executive presence, communication makes up 28%, and gravitas holds 67%! This breakdown emphasizes that how we communicate and the gravitas we bring to our interactions are far more impactful than our physical appearance. We can all work on our communication skills and the way we carry ourselves to enhance our presence as leaders. The Power of Voice: Sharm shares her own insightful journey in learning about her voice, how it has been perceived by her work colleagues, and the significance of this.  By becoming more aware of our vocal strategies, whether we are advising, suggesting, or asking, we can better connect with our audience and foster a sense of trust and safety.  As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Reflect on this question: How do you think your communication style influences the trust and safety others feel when interacting with you? Timestamps: 00:02:05 - Defining Executive Presence 00:02:53 - Sharm's Journey to Understanding Executive Presence 00:03:26 - Discovering Sylvia Ann Hewlett's Framework 00:04:08 - The Venn Diagram of Executive Presence 00:06:33 - Clarifying Gravitas 00:07:03 - The Impact of Gravitas on Others 00:09:07 - The Myth of Being Born with Executive Presence 00:10:18 - Balancing Confidence, Warmth, Strength, and Approachability 00:10:57 - Sharm's Personal Experience with Voice Perception 00:12:42 - The Role of Voice in Perception and Communication 00:14:34 - Using Voice Strategies to Build Trust and Safety 00:21:01 - The ASK Framework: Awareness, Skill, Knowledge 00:25:08 - The Role of Compassion in Leadership 00:26:01 - Defining Compassion and Its Application 00:27:09 - Empathy and Trust in Gravitas 00:28:01 - Using Voice to Project Compassion 00:30:25 - Becoming Best Friends with Your Voice 00:32:32 - Practical Tips for Developing Executive Presence 00:36:26 - Planning and Influencing Your Development Resources:  Executive Presence 2.0, Sylvia Ann HewlettPresence, Amy CuddyEmotional Equations, Chip ConleySoundWave https://soundwave.global/personal-growth-and-professional-development/#search/sharmini/_blankConnect with Sharmini:  Email: sharmini@beinclarity.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharmini-suthan/Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/Email: lisa@sixcomms.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/If you’d prefer to watch episodes, check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025 Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    40 min
  4. Episode 77: Inner Billionaire Heartset: Communication As An Act of Service with Vadivu Govind

    01-08-2025

    Episode 77: Inner Billionaire Heartset: Communication As An Act of Service with Vadivu Govind

    Send us a text If you’re curious to learn how the five pathways of being, loving, serving, growing, and playing can lead to a more meaningful life and inspire those around you. This episode is for you! Vadivu Govind is a vision and space holder evolving our understanding of wealth beyond the financial.  “Inner wealth” reminds us all of the intangibles such as universal love, service and character growth that bring us true, collective wellbeing”. She is the Founding Director of Inner Wealth, a purpose-led consultancy that nurtures life-giving leadership, workplaces, education and changemaking. Here are just a couple of takeaways from our conversation:  The Ripple Effect of Kindness: Vadivu shared that communication is an act of service, and by being mindful of our words and actions, we can positively impact others. Imagine the transformation in our workplaces and communities if we all committed to this practice! Let’s be the catalysts for change by embodying kindness and compassion in our daily interactions. Creating Meaningful Connections: Vadivu highlights the importance of connection, not just with others, but with ourselves. She encourages us to check in with our own values and motivations, and to surround ourselves with individuals who embody the qualities we aspire to cultivate. By building a personal universe of "inner billionaires," we can support each other in our journeys toward growth and service. This connection is vital for fostering a fulfilling and human-centered culture in our workplaces. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! What does ‘inner wealth’ mean to you, and how are you currently nurturing it in your daily life? Timestamps: 00:02:09: Defining Inner Billionaire Heartset 00:05:03: Pathways to Inner Wealth 00:09:56: Practical Impact of Inner Billionaire Heartset 00:13:05: Cultivating Transformative Dialogue 00:13:27: Device-Free Presence 00:14:42: Power of Appreciation 00:16:06: Vulnerability and Compassionate Listening 00:17:31: Embracing Silence 00:22:31: Integrating Love, Service, and Growth at Work 00:25:50: Taxi Driver Story 00:28:04: Transforming Customer Service 00:30:10: Realistic Workplace Changes 00:32:44: Addressing Pessimism in the Workplace 00:35:18: Practical Tips for Inner Billionaire Heartset Addendum: The three questions, “Did I give and receive love? Did I become all I can be? Did I leave the planet a little better?” were what Dr Elisabeth-Kubler Ross found people asked themselves to determine whether their life had been meaningful as reported in “Whistle While You Work” by Richard J. Leider and David A. Shapiro. Resources:  Curated Resources Connect with Vadivu:  Website: http://innerwealth.global/Email: vadivu@innerwealth.globalLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vadivugovind/Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/Email: lisa@sixcomms.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    43 min
  5. Episode 76: Embodied Communication: Body Language & Presence in Practice with Kai Ying Loh

    16-07-2025

    Episode 76: Embodied Communication: Body Language & Presence in Practice with Kai Ying Loh

    Send us a text Want to be inspired and rethink how your body shapes your communication? This episode is for you! Kai Ying Loh is an Ontological and NLP coach, co-host of The Curious Co. Podcast, and former national table tennis player. With 8 years in Singapore’s public sector, she’s worked in OD, L&D, and research. She coaches a global clientele and speaks English, Mandarin, German, and Indonesian. She studied linguistics at the National University of Singapore. Here are just a couple of takeaways from our conversation:  Alignment Between Words and Body Language: One of the most powerful insights from our discussion was the idea of alignment. It's not just about what we say, but how we say it. Our body language, facial expressions, and overall presence should match our words to convey authenticity. When there's a mismatch, it can lead to misunderstandings and a breakdown in trust. Kai shared a personal story about a high-stakes conversation with a former boss, illustrating how centering herself and being aware of her body language transformed the interaction. Practical Techniques for Effective Communication: We explored several practical techniques to help us stay calm and confident during challenging conversations. One standout tip was to breathe deeply and focus on the sensations in our bodies. This simple act can ground us and bring us back to the present moment, allowing us to respond more effectively. Kai also encouraged listeners to seek feedback from trusted friends about their non-verbal communication habits, which can reveal blind spots we may not be aware of. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! After listening, ask yourself: Have you ever felt a disconnect between your words and your body? Timestamps: [00:00:29] Defining Embodied Communication and Somatics [00:01:02] The Importance of Embodied Communication [00:02:57] Body Language and Physical Presence [00:03:23] Unconscious Communication [00:06:35] Listener's Role in Communication [00:07:38] Misalignment in Communication [00:08:14] Noticing Misalignment in Others [00:10:18] Personal Story: Difficult Conversation with a Boss [00:12:28] Centering Techniques and Their Impact [00:17:03] Impact of Positioning in Virtual Communication [00:19:05] Performance vs. Authenticity [00:20:00] Techniques for Staying Calm in High-Stakes Conversations [00:25:26] Practical Tips for Embodied Communication Resources:  The Curious Co. Podcast Connect with Kai:  Website: https://lohkaiying.com/Email: coachwithkai@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaiyingloh/Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/Email: lisa@sixcomms.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/If you’d prefer to watch episodes, check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025 Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    36 min
  6. Episode 75: From Conflict to Curiosity: Transform How You Listen with Dr Jane Tuomola

    16-05-2025

    Episode 75: From Conflict to Curiosity: Transform How You Listen with Dr Jane Tuomola

    Send us a text If you are looking for ways to have more productive and fulfilling conversations at your home or workplace, then this episode is for you! Dr Jane Tuomola, originally from the UK, is a Singapore-based therapist, coach, and trainer with over 20 years’ experience. She uses Solution Focused Practice to help clients create positive, goal-oriented change. A clinical psychologist and ICF-certified coach, Jane has edited two books on culturally responsive practice in Asia and is an Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society. Here are just a couple of tips Jane shares:  Be Curious, Not Furious: One of the most impactful insights from Jane was the idea of approaching conversations with curiosity rather than frustration. When we encounter negative behaviors or complaints, it’s essential to ask ourselves, “What is their good reason for doing this?” This mindset shift not only fosters understanding but also opens the door to more constructive dialogues. By being curious, we can uncover the underlying motivations and needs of others, leading to more meaningful connections. What’s the Wish Behind the Complaint? When faced with negativity, it’s crucial to dig deeper and understand the wishes or desires that lie beneath the surface. Jane encouraged us to ask ourselves, “What does this person really want?” By reframing complaints in this way, we can transform a potentially draining conversation into a collaborative problem-solving session. This not only helps in finding solutions but also strengthens our relationships by showing that we value the other person’s perspective. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! How might your conversations at home or work change if you approached complaints with curiosity instead of frustration? Timestamps: [00:00:13] Solution-focused listening explained. [00:03:50] Strengths in difficult conversations. [00:08:11] Active listening and engagement. [00:12:22] Making yourself present. [00:14:06] Overcoming anxiety through visualization. [00:17:13] Listening with the third ear. [00:20:40] Teamwork in challenging conversations. [00:22:47] Growth mindset in children. [00:26:15] Be curious, not furious. [00:29:16] Connection and curiosity in conversations. Resources:  The Power of the Next Small Step Rayya GhulPositively Speaking: The Art of Constructive Conversations with a Solutions Focus by Paul Z Jackson and Janine WaldmanThe Solution Focused Marriage: 5 Simple Habits that will Bring out the Best in Your Relationship by Elliot ConnieThe Solution Focused Parent: How to Help Conquer Challenges by Learning Skills by Ben FurmanRelation Spaces: A Solution Focused Handbook for Parents by Vicky EssebagConnect with Jane:  Website: https://janetuomola.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janetuomola/ Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/ Email: lisa@sixcomms.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/ If you’d prefer to watch episodes, check out our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations517  Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    31 min
  7. Episode 74: Holding Space with Laura Yates

    02-05-2025

    Episode 74: Holding Space with Laura Yates

    Send us a text If you lead meetings, workshops or gatherings for your clients, team members, or community; this episode is for you! Laura Yates, founder of The Hummingbird Life, is a joy ambassador and mental health activist with 20 years' experience. She helps people feel empowered and supported as they overcome what’s holding them back. Like her spirit animal, the hummingbird, she encourages others to bloom and grow. Laura also founded Secret Sunrise Singapore, uplifting sunrise and sunset events that blend music, movement, and nature to celebrate connection. Here are just a couple of tips Laura shares:  Creating Safe and Sacred Spaces: holding space is about creating a safe container for others to express themselves. Laura shared her unique approach, which includes rituals for opening and closing gatherings, whether they are in-person or online. These rituals help establish a sense of safety and connection, allowing participants to engage more authentically. Consider how you can incorporate similar practices in your meetings or team gatherings to foster deeper connections. Nature as a Teacher: one of the most inspiring aspects of our conversation was Laura’s perspective on nature as a powerful teacher. She highlighted how our surroundings can reflect our internal states and how connecting with nature can ground us. Whether it’s taking a moment to breathe in fresh air or simply walking barefoot on the grass, these small acts can significantly enhance our well-being and help us reconnect with ourselves and others. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode!  What’s one way you create safety and connection when leading a group, and how does nature inspire you in that? Timestamps: [00:01:30] Defining Holding Space [00:02:06] Creating a Safe and Sacred Container [00:04:12] The Importance of Preparation and Reflection [00:05:17] Challenges in Balancing Holding Space and Self-Care [00:09:04] Simple Rituals for Corporate Environments [00:14:08] Signs of Neglecting Self-Care [00:18:05] Setting Healthy Boundaries [00:23:09] Top Tips for Holding Space for Yourself Resources:  YouTube: https://youtube.com/@the_hummingbird_life?si=Mt_J2tXrR-JrBEvj Meditations: https://insig.ht/Z5vH51X5rRb?utm_source=copy_link&utm_medium=content  Connect with Laura:  Website: https://the-hummingbird-life.com/ Email: laura.yates@the-hummingbird-life.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-yates-hummingbird/ Instagram: @thehummingbirdlife  Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/ Email: lisa@sixcomms.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/ YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations517  Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    31 min
  8. Episode 73: Curiosity At Work with Kenny Toh

    18-04-2025

    Episode 73: Curiosity At Work with Kenny Toh

    Send us a text If you're feeling stuck in your current role or simply want to reignite your passion for learning, this episode is a must-listen. Kenny Toh is an international leadership and organisational development consultant, facilitator, and executive coach with 30 years of experience. His career spans Accenture, founding multiple ventures, and now leading Bridge Partnership’s Asia Pacific operations. A curious lifelong learner, he partners with global clients on leadership and transformation. Outside of work, Kenny enjoys hiking, open-water swimming, photography, and writing, combining his love of travel with meaningful, purpose-driven work. Here are just a couple of tips Kenny shares:  The Power of Unlearning: One of the most memorable moments in our conversation was when Kenny shared his personal journey of learning to swim freestyle. He highlighted the necessity of unlearning old habits to make way for new skills. This concept is equally applicable in the workplace. As we navigate changes and challenges, we must be willing to let go of outdated practices and embrace new approaches. Remember, what got you here won't get you there! Look Inward, Outward, and Expand Your Circle: a simple yet powerful framework for reigniting curiosity: look inward to discover what brings you joy, look outward to explore new interests, and expand your circle by connecting with diverse people. This holistic approach not only enhances our personal growth but also enriches our professional lives. By staying open to serendipity and random stimuli, we can fuel our curiosity and creativity. As always, we’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! When was the last time you felt truly curious or energized by something new, and how might you create more space for that in your daily life? Timestamps: [00:01:35] Defining Curiosity at Work [00:01:46] Curiosity in Career Growth [00:02:07] Kenny's Career Adventures [00:04:05] Following Curiosity Through People [00:04:22] Navigating Fast-Paced Changes [00:04:54] Strategies for Continuous Learning [00:08:03] Importance of Unlearning [00:08:21] Unlearning to Learn Freestyle Swimming [00:12:28] Three-Part Strategy for Business Recovery [00:14:19] Fostering Curiosity in Organizations [00:15:21] Asking Deeper Questions [00:17:20] Appreciative Inquiry and Solution-Focused Approach [00:18:07] Meerkat Moments [00:19:19] Practical Tips for Reigniting Curiosity [00:22:30] Staying Open to Serendipity Resources:  https://www.globalcuriosityinstitute.com/ Kenny’s Blog: https://kennytoh.com/ Connect with Kenny:  Website: https://bridge-partnership.com/ Email (work): Kenny.toh@bridge-partnership.com Email (personal): Kennytoh1970@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennytoh/ Instagram: @the_miloist Connect with Lisa:  Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/ Email: lisa@sixcomms.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/ If you’d prefer to watch episodes, check out our YouTube channel: https://ww Support the show https://www.sixcomms.org/

    25 min

Info

The Six Cs in SIXCOMMS stand for: Connection, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Customization and Consistency. I'm Lisa, your host, and I believe these are the key ingredients to effective communication. Now more than ever, we need to put human connection first when communicating across all channels and platforms. This podcast explores all things to do with communicating in a work environment now. You will be able to pick up tips and techniques that will help you improve the way you communicate with yourself and others. Website: https://www.sixcomms.org/Email me at: lisa@sixcomms.org