We recently connected with Regina Larko and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Regina , thanks for sitting with us today to chat about topics that are relevant to so many. One of those topics is communication skills, because we live in an age where our ability to communicate effectively can be like a superpower. Can you share how you developed your ability to communicate well?
Communication is such a fascinating and complex part of all of our lives. From the first second we are born we communicate, so you would think as humans communication would come naturally to us. Yet, communicating effectively might just be one of the most challenging parts of our existence. Just think of the last time you felt misunderstood or overheard. Is it because the other person did not listen close enough or because you did not express yourself in the most clear way? There is no one to blame here. Communication is about giving and receiving and there is so much potential for improvement on all sides. One of the things that helped me to improve my own communication skills massively is launching my own podcast. My podcast literally forced me to pay closer attention to how I communicate, the way I express myself, the way I listen, paying attention to body language, and hearing what is said between the lines. It amazes me how I went from the first podcast episodes I recorded back in 2016, nervously, clumsily, to today – growing into a skilled and comfortable communicator allowing me to go into conversations with ease and curiosity, seeing every single conversation as an opportunity to become an even better and more effective communicator yet.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I support my clients to launch and grow impactful podcasts with my 1:1 Coaching, Masterminds and Online Courses. It all started with my love for audio storytelling and my own experience building a strong personal brand through my flagship production #impact – a Podcast about stuff that matters that went live with its first episode in 2017. I’ve seen firsthand how a podcast allowed me to build a thriving and engaged network and audience that resonates with the topics I discuss on my show as I established myself as a leading voice in the space. Former podcast guests became Podcasting clients and sponsors of the podcast and it just lights me up to work with the most wonderful purpose-driven individuals and organisations. Through my NGO fellowship programme I also support marginalized voices to get the support they need when launching and growing their own podcast channel. What else do you need to know about me? I am a hopeless optimist, originally from Vienna/Austria and serving my clients virtually across the globe, proud mom of 3 young kids and I love dancing like no one’s watching – although those dance sessions would occasionally pop up over on my Instagram feed.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Oh I love reflecting on this, thanks for this question. The three qualities that got me to where I am today are curiosity, patience and flexibility. I believe the best way to develop these areas yourself is to say yes to things that scare you. That presentation you were invited to give although you are rather new to the subject, that promotion you were offered – in a different city or country even, that contract that seems a little bit too big to take on, that marathon you always wanted to run. All those opportunities that are presented to you that you feel intimidated by – raise your hand, try yourself out, learn and grow. And as you do, you will notice how this will enable you to expand your comfort zone as you get curious about developing yourself, patiently, in a pace that works for you, because you know that it takes time to grow into that person you want to become. If in the process you stay kind to yourself, not blaming yourself for the mistakes and failures along the way, you will be able to manage anything that life and business throws at you because you will be able to stay flexible and adjust your plans when needed.
What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?
Breathing. It’s as simple as that. Focusing on the breath, and taking a few deep breaths helps me to ground myself. I always feel immediate relief. Another strategy that works really well for me is letting the challenge that I feel overwhelmed by just be. Meaning to look at the problem at hand as being completely neutral. It’s easier said than done, but understanding that it is my thoughts about the challenging situation that are creating the overwhelm and not the situation itself is helping me to shift my perspective and go from fight or flight into taking meaningful action towards solving the issue. Last but not least, venting all frustrations out in a long audio message to one of my closest friends does wonders too. Noone is an island and having a strong support system made up of family, friends and coaches has been crucial on my journey. Building a support system for yourself would be my advice here. You don’t need to figure everything out on your own. You can and should ask for support, especially when you feel overwhelmed.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hashtagimpact.com/podcasting/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/regina_larko/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regina-larko/
- Other: Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/impact-podcast
