Mastering Communication: Stories & Lessons

“Good communication is as stimulating as black coffee, and just as hard to sleep after.” – Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Mastering communication is one of the most important building blocks for reaching your full potential. We are fortunate to have many brilliant communicators in our community and we asked some of them to share their lessons and advice below.

Dan Stanton

I struggled academically in high school in most subjects, but I always loved writing — there was something about it that made sense to me both creatively and logically, whether it was writing a story or an essay. When I was 18, I found myself at Minneapolis Community and Technical College and began working as an English tutor in the Writing Center. Read more>>

Alliya Gabriel

I developed the ability to communicate effectively naturally. I have always been a people person and have always found it interesting that each person is so different but similar at the same time. I do also enjoy people watching and watching how people engage with each other from a third party perspective. When engaging with people I do try to go in with an open mind because there are people that have a harder time accepting criticism, opinions, values etc. Read more>>

Taejun “TJ” Lee

I wasn’t strong with words or English growing up. Being bilingual felt like learning two languages at once, a burden compared to others who only had one. But now I know many others shared that experience. I relied heavily on nonverbal communication, expressing myself through actions because I found verbal communication rigid and one-directional. My accident, where I lost my mobility, changed everything. Read more>>

Meyleeng Rodriguez Caro

We all have good and “bad” qualities about ourselves and I was always the misunderstood child. I didn’t always communicate effectively, I use to be abrasive, short and direct as well as quick tempered. As I grew and experienced life I began to realize I don’t like the feeling of being misunderstood and misjudged so I began paying attention to how I spoke and emphasizing the intent in what I was trying to convey.  Read more>>

Sarah Kiel

The art of public speaking will come naturally- so long as you practice regularly. As a business owner, I wear all of the “hats.” I must communicate effectively to keep growing, whether helping someone understand technology for the first time in a one-on-one meeting, or engaging an audience of 50 people.  Read more>>

Jen Fontanilla

I would have to say that it probably started back in elementary school when we had to give presentations. I was a little nerd and over achiever and it was so important for me to get the good grades and nail “A”. I joke that I am a recovering perfectionist! So, from an early age, I understood the importance of practicing and being able to explain things clearly and intentionally. Read more>>

Jermey Robinson

I have honed my ability to communicate effectively through continuous skill development. Recognizing that communication and networking are vital aspects of life, I actively engage in various situations to enhance my proficiency. This involves conversations with friends, participating in my podcast episodes, navigating the dynamics of work life, and fostering effective communication within my marriage. I am committed to refining my communication skills daily, as I understand that these skills are fundamental to success in all areas of life.  Read more>>

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