Why leaders over-talk - and how to stop it. Don't Let the Smile Fool You EP14

Have you ever been in one of those meetings where a simple question turns into a history lesson, a TED Talk, or unnecessary drama? In this episode of Don't Let the Smile Fool You, we are diving deep into the very real problem of over talking—why we do it, how it affects our credibility, and, most importantly, how to stop.

Uche walks us through her own experience with over talking and the uncomfortable feeling of silence in a meeting. She shares the kinds of over talkers we all know: The Historian, The TED Talker, The Confessor, The Rambler, and even the Accidental Volunteer who ends up with more assignments than they bargained for. This episode is a practical workshop on leadership, the power of silence, and the discipline required to use your voice effectively.

We break down how over talking can dilute your message, expose you to unnecessary scrutiny, and accidentally create more problems for yourself at work. On the brighter side, Uche gives clear strategies for mastering meetings, from self-editing tips to her go-to framework: short, sharp, clear—SSC.

Whether you struggle with staying on message, fear dead air, or just want to present yourself as more confident and credible in any professional setting, these lessons are for you. The episode is packed with stories, real-world tactics, and a generous dose of humor about the do’s and don’ts of meetings and professional communication.

Key moments in this episode:
00:00 The problem with over talking and leadership in meetings
01:08 Why it’s hard to stop rambling, and the internal struggle to be concise
02:22 The link between over talking, insecurity, and drama
04:34 Uche’s own confession and the moment she realized she said too much
05:52 Surviving uncomfortable silence—why it triggers us and what to do
07:17 Reasons why people over talk (it’s not always ego)
08:01 Why clarity and confidence go hand-in-hand
09:00 Characters of over talking: The Historian, The TED Talker, The Confessor, The Rambler
12:31 The pain of watching a leader over talk in a review meeting
13:15 Leadership lessons from Uche’s early career
15:11 Why self-editing is strategy, not just courtesy
15:59 Uche’s best tips to manage your message and land your point
18:04 The SSC rule: Short, Sharp, and Clear
19:03 Landing gear: what to do when you’re rambling in real-time
20:11 Final thoughts—discipline, confidence, and saying less

If you’ve ever wished you could say less and be heard more, this episode is your go-to guide. Share with a friend who needs it, or use these tips at your next meeting and watch your influence grow.

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