I Have Some Questions...
Most people know the headline of a leader’s story. Few know the path it took to get there. This podcast goes beyond titles, book launches and business wins, to explore the lived journey behind the thought leader.
Through deep, unhurried conversations, we uncover the moments that shaped them—the doubts, pivots, convictions, and quiet breakthroughs that built their body of work.
Each episode features authors, coaches, executives, and bold thinkers who have forged their own path. Instead of rehearsed talking points, they’re invited into a space where thoughtful questions unlock something more human. The result is a layered conversation that reveals not just what they preach, but how they became the kind of person who can teach it.
Because we believe the best stories aren’t always told—they’re revealed. And when brilliant people are given the right questions and the room to answer them fully, what emerges is insight you can feel, frameworks you can apply, and a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to lead, create, and contribute at a meaningful level.
I Have Some Questions...
031: The Secret to Make Hard Conversations EASY
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In this solo episode of I Have Some Questions..., Erik goes straight into the heart of what most leaders avoid: hard conversations. If you've ever dreaded giving feedback, delayed the tough talk, or spiraled into overthinking how it'll be received — this one’s for you. Erik breaks down why we avoid these conversations and offers a simple, repeatable framework to make them easier, more human, and more effective.
❓The Big Question
How can leaders approach hard conversations in a way that actually makes them easier and more productive?
💡Key Takeaways
- The dread of a tough conversation usually stems from fear of the other person’s reaction, not the topic itself.
- You can’t control their reaction, but you can control the setting and your words.
- Preparation includes asking your people ahead of time: “How do you prefer to receive tough feedback?”
- Body language and tonality are crucial — especially in virtual settings.
- The 3-part enrollment process (what’s in it for them, your intention, ask for permission) can open the door to trust and accountability.
🧠 Concepts, Curves and Frameworks
- Rules of Engagement: Pre-agreed ways to give and receive feedback. Ask before you need them.
- The Enrollment Model:
- What I want for you – Frame the benefit from their POV.
- What I want to do – Reveal your intentions clearly.
- Ask Permission – Invite them into the conversation.
- Flipping the Frame: Your feedback isn’t just about fixing problems — it’s a gift that could unlock their next level. Not sharing it? That’s the real disservice.
🔁 Real-Life Reflections
- Ever sat on a hard conversation so long it got harder? Erik calls it out: the longer you wait, the worse it gets.
- He shares a moment when his own boss’s unclear intentions made him defensive — and why transparency matters.
- From body language on Zoom to soft tonality in voice, Erik highlights how subtle cues can shift everything.
🧰 Put This Into Practice
- This week, identify one conversation you’ve been avoiding.
- Draft an opening using the Enrollment Model:
- What’s in it for them?
- What’s your intention?
- How will you ask permission?
- Try this: Next 1:1, ask your team, “How do you want me to give you feedback when it’s hard to hear?”
🗣️ Favorite Quotes
“If you were more confident the conversation would go well, you probably wouldn’t dread it so much.”“To not tell somebody the missing secret to their next level of success — that’s pretty rude.”“Knowledge doesn’t solve problems — skill does. And skill comes from practice.”