Speaking of Meaning

Ibrahim Mohamad
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Speaking of Meaning is the podcast dedicated to helping you master communication so you can build stronger relationships and create greater impact—in your work, your life, and the world around you. Each episode gives you practical strategies and actionable takeaways to help you: • Express yourself with clarity and confidence • Strengthen relationships built on trust and meaning • Influence and inspire others • Navigate difficult conversations with ease • Achieve greater success personally and professionally Host Ibrahim Mohamad sits down with experts, leaders, and inspiring voices to explore what truly makes communication—and relationships—work. Together, they share stories, tools, and insights that help you grow, connect, and lead a more impactful life. Speaking of Meaning: Better Communication, Greater Impact ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

  1. Sep 26

    Women, Leadership & the Stories We Carry | Best of Leslie Traub

    In this Best Of Episode of Speaking of Meaning, I revisit some of the most meaningful moments from my conversation with Leslie Traub—transformational coach, facilitator, and founder of Rewiring Together. For more than 40 years, Leslie has helped leaders and organizations create healthier workplace cultures while supporting women through identity, belonging, and major life transitions. In this conversation, we explore: - Why inner authority becomes more important than external validation - Workplace age bias and the unique challenges facing women over 50 - Psychological safety, belonging, and imposter syndrome - How unconscious bias shapes hiring and promotion decisions - Why “priming” helps us interrupt gut-feeling bias - The power of vulnerability, women’s circles, and healing through connection Whether you lead people, work in HR, or are navigating your own career, this episode offers thoughtful insights into leadership, workplace culture, and becoming more fully yourself. Leslie Traub: https://rewiringtogether.org 🎙️ Follow Speaking of Meaning for more conversations on communication, leadership, trust, belonging, and workplace culture. 🌐 Website: https://www.speakingofmeaning.com 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

    Women, Leadership & the Stories We Carry | Best of Leslie Traub

  2. Aug 27

    Everyday Bias at Work: Gut Feeling, Hiring & Fairer Decisions with Howard J. Ross

    We all like to think we make fair and rational decisions at work. But how much do we actually know about what influences those decisions? In this episode of Speaking of Meaning, I’m joined again by Howard J. Ross to talk about something that affects all of us: everyday bias. We talk about how bias shows up in hiring, promotions, performance reviews, first impressions, and those moments when we say, “I just had a gut feeling about them.” Howard explains why bias isn't something that makes us bad people. It's a normal part of how our brains work. The challenge is recognizing when it leads us to make decisions that aren't fair or effective. We also talk about: • Why your “gut feeling” can be misleading• How first impressions spread through organizations• Bias in hiring and promotion decisions• Why slowing down can lead to better decisions• How psychological safety makes it easier to challenge our assumptions• Why feedback is more effective than blame and shame• How organizations can build structures that reduce bias• Why diversity numbers alone aren't enough• The connection between bias, belonging, and workplace culture• How AI and technology can amplify existing bias One of the things I really appreciated about this conversation is Howard's approach to bias. Instead of blaming or demonizing people, he focuses on understanding how bias works and creating better ways of making decisions. Because the goal isn't to become completely “unbiased.” It's to make it harder for our biases to make important decisions for us. 🎙️ Follow Speaking of Meaning Speaking of Meaning is about communication, leadership, trust, workplace culture, belonging, and the psychology behind how we work with other people. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning🌐 Website: https://www.speakingofmeaning.com I also work with organizations as a keynote speaker and trainer on communication, leadership, trust, workplace culture, psychological safety, unconscious bias, and belonging. If you'd like to have me speak or train your organization, you can find more information on my website. If this conversation resonated with you, subscribe, follow the podcast, and share it with someone who works with people. — Ibrahim This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

    Everyday Bias at Work: Gut Feeling, Hiring & Fairer Decisions with Howard J. Ross

  3. Aug 11

    The Best of Kasim Hussien: Communication, Leadership & Psychological Safety

    In this Best Of episode of Speaking of Meaning, I revisit some of my favorite moments from my conversation with Kasim Hussain about communication, leadership, psychological safety, and workplace culture. We talk about why communication is one of the most important leadership skills, why people need to feel safe enough to speak up and challenge ideas, and how active listening can change the way we lead. Kasim also shares practical ideas on giving and receiving feedback, working across cultures, creating inclusion, adapting to different situations, and communicating more clearly. Some of the themes we explore: • Why psychological safety matters at work• How great leaders listen• Building a healthier feedback culture• Diversity, inclusion, and cultural differences• Why authenticity matters in leadership• How to communicate clearly using the SCQA framework• Preparing for uncertainty and having a Plan B• Why leaders need to observe, adapt, and reflect If you work with people, lead a team, or simply want to become a better communicator, there are plenty of practical ideas in this conversation. 🎙️ Speaking of Meaning explores better communication, greater impact, leadership, workplace culture, trust, belonging, and the conversations that matter. If you enjoy the podcast, follow Speaking of Meaning on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe on YouTube so you don't miss future episodes. 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning 🌐 Website: https://www.speakingofmeaning.com I also work with organizations as a keynote speaker and trainer on communication, leadership, trust, workplace culture, psychological safety, and unconscious bias. If you'd like to bring me in to speak or train your team, you can get in touch through my website. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

    The Best of Kasim Hussien: Communication, Leadership & Psychological Safety

  4. Jul 22

    AI, Trust & Meaningful Work: How Leaders Can Build Better Workplaces | Alejandra Rojas

    Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work—but will it make work more meaningful or less meaningful? In this episode of Speaking of Meaning, I sit down with Alejandra Rojas, a PhD researcher in business development and technology, to explore how AI, robotics, and digital transformation are reshaping leadership, workplace culture, and the employee experience. We discuss why meaningful work is deeply personal, why trust and psychological safety matter more than ever, and how leaders can introduce AI in ways that empower employees instead of creating fear. Alejandra explains why meaning isn't found only in promotions or achievements—it often comes from everyday moments, supportive relationships, and feeling that your work matters. We also explore the importance of autonomy, agency, integrity, and AI literacy as organizations prepare for the future of work. In this episode: How AI is transforming the workplace Why meaningful work looks different for everyone The relationship between trust, belonging, and performance Psychological safety and innovation Why autonomy and agency increase engagement AI literacy and preparing employees for change Human-centered leadership in an AI-driven world Why meaningful work is created through everyday interactions How leaders can build cultures where people embrace change instead of fearing it About Alejandra Rojas Alejandra Rojas is a PhD researcher in business development and technology. Her research focuses on artificial intelligence, robotics, digital transformation, meaningful work, and how organizations can successfully adopt new technologies while keeping people at the center. Learn more about Alejandra Rojas: Webiste: Alejandra Rojas — Making the future of work more human. Connect with Speaking of Meaning 🌐 Website:www.speakingofmeaning.com 📺 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning 🎧 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2yW6sRvHLbwS86k4h6um9a?si=56a1f90482384b50 🍎 Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/se/podcast/speaking-of-meaning/id1845181298 📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/speakingofmeaning/ If your organization is looking for a keynote speaker, trainer, or workshop facilitator on communication, leadership, workplace culture, trust, psychological safety, or the future of work, I'd be happy to work with your team. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and share it with a colleague, leader, or friend interested in AI, leadership, and building healthier workplaces. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

  5. Jun 29

    Women, Work, and Belonging: Navigating Identity, Leadership, and Life After 50 | Leslie Traub

    Women, Work, and Belonging: Navigating Identity, Leadership, and Life After 50 | Leslie Traub What happens when the career you've built no longer feels like the whole story? For many women, turning 50 brings new questions about identity, purpose, leadership, and belonging. Career transitions, caregiving, changing relationships, and age bias can reshape how we see ourselves—both at work and in life. In this episode of Speaking of Meaning, I sit down with leadership coach and organizational development consultant Leslie Traut to explore the challenges women face after 50 and how leaders can create workplaces where experience, wisdom, and authenticity are valued. We discuss age bias, psychological safety, imposter syndrome, unconscious bias, belonging at work, and why many women find themselves redefining success beyond job titles and external achievement. In this episode: - Why many women experience an identity shift after 50 - Age bias in today's workplace - Psychological safety and belonging - Imposter syndrome and self-doubt - Unconscious bias and inclusive leadership - Why experience is one of your greatest strengths - Building healthier workplace cultures - Finding purpose beyond your career About Leslie Traub Leslie is a leadership coach, facilitator, and organizational development consultant with more than 40 years of experience in leadership development, workplace culture, and organizational change. She is the founder of Rewiring Together, where she helps women over 50 navigate life transitions, rediscover purpose, and reconnect with their authentic selves. Learn more about Leslie and her work:https://rewiringtogether.org Connect with Speaking of Meaning 🌐 Website:www.speakingofmeaning.com 📺 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning 🎧 Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2yW6sRvHLbwS86k4h6um9a 🍎 Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/se/podcast/speaking-of-meaning/id1845181298 📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/speakingofmeaning/ If your organization is looking for a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, or trainer on communication, leadership, workplace culture, psychological safety, or trust, I'd be happy to work with your team. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who might benefit from the conversation. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

  6. Jun 15

    Best Moments: Confidence, Influence, and Personal Power in the Workplace | Chris Lipp

    This episode is a collection of some of the most valuable insights from my conversation with communication expert Chris Lipp. Chris has spent years studying persuasion, leadership communication, and what he calls personal power — the internal belief that we can create impact in the world around us. One of the most important ideas from this conversation is that communication is about much more than words. Two people can say exactly the same thing, yet one inspires confidence while the other struggles to be heard. Why? Because people respond not only to what we say, but also to how we show up. We explore why so many professionals seek validation from colleagues, managers, and clients, and how that pursuit of approval can actually undermine credibility and influence. In this Best Moments episode, we discuss: • Why confidence often matters more than communication techniques• The concept of personal power and how it affects leadership• The difference between seeking approval and earning respect• Why high-performing professionals sometimes struggle to influence others• How confidence shapes workplace communication and team dynamics• The hidden connection between self-esteem, trust, and leadership presence• Why people are naturally drawn to those who communicate with conviction Whether you're a leader, manager, entrepreneur, salesperson, or professional looking to communicate more effectively, this episode offers practical insights into the psychology behind influence and trust. Listen now and discover why the most persuasive communicators often focus less on being liked and more on creating value. Chris Lipp is a communication expert, author, professor, and coach who specializes in persuasion, leadership communication, and personal power. His work has helped professionals, executives, and organizations communicate with greater confidence and impact. Website: https://www.chrislipp.com Speaking of Meaning Website: www.speakingofmeaning.com YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2yW6sRvHLbwS86k4h6um9a Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/se/podcast/speaking-of-meaning/id1845181298 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

  7. Jun 6

    The Hidden Psychology of Toxic Workplaces | 8 Types of Workplace Bullies

    Most toxic workplaces don’t look toxic at first. People smile in meetings, the office feels professional, and everyone says the “right” things. But underneath the surface, something unhealthy is often happening. Communication becomes political. People stop speaking honestly. Employees begin walking on eggshells. In this episode of Speaking of Meaning, I talk about workplace bullying, toxic organizational cultures, and the psychology behind unhealthy communication at work. I break down 8 common workplace bullying personalities that many people experience but struggle to describe clearly: - The Gatekeeper - The Constant Critic - The Screamer - The Two-Headed Snake - The Snoop - The Ringmaster - The Manipulator - The Queen Syndrome I also share personal experiences, reflections on leadership, and practical thoughts on psychological safety, trust, micromanagement, manipulation, and why toxic cultures often continue for years without changing. This episode is really about something deeper than workplace conflict. It’s about what happens when people stop feeling safe enough to communicate honestly. If you’ve ever worked in an environment where you constantly questioned yourself, overthought emails, avoided speaking up, or felt emotionally drained after meetings, you’ll probably recognize some of these patterns. And perhaps the hardest question is this: What happens to people — and organizations — when fear slowly replaces trust? Listen to the full episode here: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/2yW6sRvHLbwS86k4h6um9a?si=56a1f90482384b50 Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/se/podcast/speaking-of-meaning/id1845181298 Website:www.speakingofmeaning.com Youtube channel: Speaking of Meaning - YouTube #WorkplaceCulture #Leadership #Communication #ToxicWorkplace #WorkplaceBullying #PsychologicalSafety #EmotionalIntelligence #Management #HumanBehavior #SpeakingOfMeaning This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

  8. May 16

    Best Moments: Why Great Ideas Don’t Matter If You Can’t Communicate Them | John Zimmer

    In this special “best moments” episode of Speaking of Meaning, I revisit some of the most impactful parts of my earlier conversation with communication expert John Zimmer on persuasion, public speaking, storytelling, and influence. We talk about why great ideas alone are not enough, the difference between persuasion and manipulation, why storytelling matters in business communication, and how powerful speakers use silence, emotion, credibility, and timing to move people. John also breaks down Aristotle’s timeless principles of persuasion — logos, ethos, pathos, and kairos — and explains how communication shapes leadership, trust, and impact. This episode is packed with practical insights for leaders, speakers, entrepreneurs, creators, and anyone who wants to communicate more clearly and effectively. Topics include:• Public speaking and communication skills• Persuasion vs manipulation• Storytelling in business• The power of silence and pauses• Emotional connection and credibility• Leadership communication• How to speak so people listen About John Zimmer:John Zimmer is an international keynote speaker, communication trainer, and founder of Manner of Speaking, where he helps professionals become more clear, persuasive, and impactful communicators. John’s Website:https://mannerofspeaking.org/ Follow John Zimmer:https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnzimmer/ Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or watch on YouTube. Follow Speaking of Meaning YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@Speakingofmeaning Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/speakingofmeaning/ Website:www.speakingofmeaning.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

    Best Moments: Why Great Ideas Don’t Matter If You Can’t Communicate Them | John Zimmer
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About

Speaking of Meaning is the podcast dedicated to helping you master communication so you can build stronger relationships and create greater impact—in your work, your life, and the world around you. Each episode gives you practical strategies and actionable takeaways to help you: • Express yourself with clarity and confidence • Strengthen relationships built on trust and meaning • Influence and inspire others • Navigate difficult conversations with ease • Achieve greater success personally and professionally Host Ibrahim Mohamad sits down with experts, leaders, and inspiring voices to explore what truly makes communication—and relationships—work. Together, they share stories, tools, and insights that help you grow, connect, and lead a more impactful life. Speaking of Meaning: Better Communication, Greater Impact ibrahimmohamad.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Ibrahim Mohamad
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ibrahim Mohamad
  • Show Website
    Speaking of Meaning