The Jefferson Fisher Podcast

The way you communicate in a relationship can tell you a lot about whether it's actually healthy. In this episode, I'm joined by dating and relationship expert Sabrina Zohar to talk about the biggest communication mistakes people make in dating, relationships, and even breakups. We discuss why texting can create a false sense of intimacy, how to recognize emotional immaturity, the difference between being direct and being hurtful, and why setting boundaries can reveal someone's true intentions. Sabrina also shares practical ways to communicate your needs, take accountability, and build relationships where you don't have to beg to be heard. Buy Sabrina’s new book, Why Am I Like This? https://sabrinazohar.com/book Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors:…

Ever get a text message that makes you wonder, “What am I even supposed to say to that?” In this episode, I’m breaking down real text messages and emails from people dealing with difficult conversations at work, with family, and in friendships. From passive-aggressive bosses and controlling coworkers to family tension and hurt feelings, I’ll show you what works, what makes things worse, and what you can say instead. Because sometimes, changing just a few words can change the entire conversation. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Athena: Go to https://athenacom/jefferson and hire a top tier EA. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my book, The Next Conversation, or listen to…

Cory Asbury joins me for an honest conversation about taking ownership, putting your ego aside, and learning to apologize without making excuses. We talk about why being right isn't always worth it, how to respond when someone tells you that you've hurt them, and why taking responsibility is one of the most powerful things you can do in any relationship. Whether it's with your spouse, your kids, or someone you've hurt, this conversation is a reminder that real growth starts when you're willing to own your mistakes and make things right. Join me this Saturday, October 10th, for a free live class where I'll have some big announcements! https://start.saidwell.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Tiny Health: Go to https://tinyhealth.com/jefferson for $50 off your first at-home test kit. Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at…

Some conversations go bad before the other person even has a chance to respond. In this episode, I’m reacting to some of the internet’s most insane texts between bosses and employees—and breaking down exactly where the communication went wrong. From guilt trips and threats to ignored boundaries and a complete lack of empathy, these exchanges are a masterclass in what not to do. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter. https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/newsletter Thank you to our Sponsors: Every Dollar. Try EveryDollar Premium free for 14 days, full access, on me. Go to https://everydollar.com/jefferson BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Order my new book, The Next Conversation, today! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/book Suggest a topic or ask a question for…

What do you do when people criticize you, misunderstand you, or challenge what you believe? Tim Tebow joins me for a conversation about what it really means to stand your ground without losing respect for the person across from you. We talk about handling criticism, knowing when to speak up and when to walk away, getting out of the comparison trap, and surrounding yourself with people who will tell you the truth. Check out Tim’s newest book, 40 Days to Look Again: https://timtebow.com/books/ Learn more about Tim’s foundation and how you can get involved: https://timtebowfoundation.org/ Additional resources Tim mentioned in this episode: https://www.missingkids.org/home Bark Phone Get help. Text "THORN" to 741741 to confidentially speak with a trained counselor. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook:…

How do you stay compassionate without getting pulled into someone else’s chaos? In this call-in episode, I answer questions about setting boundaries with people who create constant turmoil, dealing with difficult relationship dynamics, and protecting your peace without becoming cold or detached. We also talk about the communication advice every teenager needs, how to work through conflict with in-laws, what to say when someone makes your pain about them, and how to handle a parent who has chosen distance. These conversations are about staying kind, clear, and grounded when relationships get complicated. I answer your questions. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Gusto: Go to https://gusto.com/jefferson and get your first three months free when…

If you’ve ever wondered why a simple conversation can feel so overwhelming with ADHD, this episode is for you. Dr. Sasha Hamdani joins me to explain what’s really happening inside the ADHD brain—and how it impacts emotions, rejection, relationships, and communication. We talk about why everything can feel “louder,” why feedback can hit so hard, and practical ways to communicate without shutting down, spiraling, or becoming overwhelmed. Buy Dr. Hamdani’s new book: Too Sensitive – Rejection, Resilience, and the Science of Feeling Deeply – http://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250423764/toosensitive/ Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: David. Subscribe and save 10% on every order’ at https://davidprotein.com/jefferson Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day.…

The best communicators are not the ones with the fastest comeback. They are the ones who know which question to ask. In this episode, I break down how to ask better questions when someone is insulting, pushing against you, or trying to pull you into an argument. I will show you how to use clarifying questions to slow a conversation down, questions of intent to put the focus back where it belongs, and no-oriented questions to make a request without creating more resistance. You will learn how to stop giving people something to fight against and start asking questions that lead to clearer, calmer conversations. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Athena: Go to https://athenacom/jefferson and hire a top tier EA. BetterHelp. Click…

What if protecting your kids from struggle is actually making life harder for them later? Dr. Becky Kennedy joins me to talk about what it really takes to raise confident, resilient kids who can handle frustration, failure, boundaries, and hearing “no.” We get into when to help versus when to let your child struggle, the right way to set boundaries, how to avoid raising entitled kids, and why being a great parent has nothing to do with getting it right all the time. We also talk about one of the most important skills in any relationship—knowing how to repair when you mess up. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Factor. Head to https://factormeals.com/jefferson50off and use code JEFFERSON50OFF to get 50% off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1…

Some conversations test your patience. Others test your character. In this call-in episode, I answer your questions about staying calm when emotions run high, setting boundaries with the people you love, handling conflict with confidence, and responding without losing yourself. How do you get people to like you? What do you do with an estranged parent? I answer your questions. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: LMNT: Go to https://drinkLMNT.com/jefferson for a free sample pack with any order. MASA Chips: Go to ⁠https://masachips.com/jefferson⁠ and get up to 25% off your order. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star…

Money might be one of the hardest conversations we avoid having. In this episode, I sit down with money expert Vivian Tu to talk about why money feels so uncomfortable, how the way we grew up shapes our financial habits, and how to have better conversations about money with your partner, your kids, and even your boss. Vivian also shares when to bring up money while dating, who should pay on the first date, and how to ask for the raise you deserve. Check out Ask Dolly here! https://askdolly.com/JF Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Tiny Health: Go to https://tinyhealth.com/jefferson for $50 off your first at-home test kit. Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. BetterHelp.…

Manipulation works when someone convinces you that their reaction is your responsibility. In this episode, I break down how to recognize manipulative behavior, why it can be hardest to see in the people closest to you, and what to do when someone uses guilt, pressure, fear, or obligation to get their way. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter. https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/newsletter Thank you to our Sponsors: OneSkin: Go to https://oneskin.co/jefferson and use code JEFFERSON to get 15% off BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Order my new book, The Next Conversation, today! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/book Suggest a topic or ask a question for me to answer on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/topic Join my School of Communication.…

Have you ever known exactly what you wanted to say, only for your mind to go completely blank when the pressure is on? In this episode, I sit down with brain coach and memory expert Jim Kwik to talk about why that happens and how to train your brain to perform when you need it most. We get into practical ways to improve memory, focus, and thinking speed, how your inner dialogue affects the way you communicate, and why relying too heavily on AI could actually weaken some of the mental skills you need most. Jim also shares simple techniques for remembering names, thinking faster on your feet, and keeping your brain sharp for the long haul. Buy Jim’s new book, Limitless Daily: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/761666/limitless-daily-by-jim-kwik/ Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook:…

Disappointing people does not make you a bad person. But if you are always trying to manage everyone else's expectations, you will eventually lose sight of your own. In this episode, I break down how to say no without carrying the weight of someone else's reaction, why the feeling after the no is often harder than the no itself, and how to set a boundary without overexplaining, apologizing, or backing down. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter. https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/newsletter Thank you to our Sponsors: Gusto: Go to https://gusto.com/jefferson and use code JEFFERSON to get three months free when you run your first payroll. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Order my new book, The Next Conversation, today! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/book…

*Note: there are unmuted curse words in today's episode* Today, I sit down with Baylen Dupree for a conversation about Tourette syndrome, neurodivergence, and what good communication actually looks like when someone experiences the world differently than you do. Baylen opens up about the things people often misunderstand about Tourette’s, the communication challenges she’s had to navigate in relationships and everyday life, and what she wishes more people understood about interacting with someone who is neurodivergent. We also talk about conflict, overstimulation, speaking up for what you need, and how the people closest to you can learn to communicate with you better. This is a conversation about understanding people beyond what you see on the surface—and becoming a more thoughtful communicator in the process. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson…

When a conversation gets stuck, most people try to win. That only sinks both people deeper. In this episode, I break down how to recognize when a conversation has lost traction, name what happened without blaming the other person, and get back on track without shutting anyone down. We talk about the phrases that help you move from repeating the same argument to finding clarity, why bringing up the past is not always the problem, and how to refocus on what you are actually trying to solve together. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter. https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/newsletter Thank you to our Sponsors: Pendulum: Go to https://www.pendulumlife.com/jefferson and use code JEFFERSON for up to 20% off your first order.Zocdoc: Go to https://www.zocdoc.com/ to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month…

What makes someone actually ready for a healthy relationship? In this episode, I sit down with relationship expert Quinlan Walther to talk about the communication habits that create connection—and the ones that quietly destroy it. We get into vulnerability, emotional maturity, asking for what you need instead of expecting someone to read your mind, and why curiosity may be one of the most attractive qualities you can bring into a relationship. We also talk about what happens when you're the only person trying to fix the relationship, and how to recognize when you're sacrificing your self-respect just to keep someone around. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Masa Chips. Get 25% off at https://www.masachips.com/pages/jefferson Cozy Earth. Upgrade…

Defensiveness can shut down a conversation before you ever get close to resolving anything. But sometimes it’s not just what you’re saying—it’s how you’re approaching the conversation. In this episode, I’m giving you three simple ways to lower someone’s defenses without avoiding the hard conversation. We’ll talk about why words like “always” and “never” immediately put people on guard, how to use “when you, I feel” instead, why finding something you can agree on changes the tone, and how turning commands into “we” questions can keep you on the same team. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: AG1. Visit https://drinkag1.com/jefferson and get a FREE AG1 Flavor Sampler and a FREE bottle of Vitamin D3 + K2 in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1…

What if being more direct actually made people trust you more? My friend Ben Bruno has spent years training some of the most recognizable people in the world, and one of the things I appreciate most about him is that you always know where he stands. In this episode, we talk about how to give an honest opinion without being a jerk, why people respect you more when you stop telling them what you think they want to hear, and how to adjust the way you communicate depending on who’s in front of you. Get Ben Bruno's STRENGTH app here: https://benbruno.com/ Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: David. Subscribe and save 10% on every order’ at https://davidprotein.com/jefferson Our Place. Visit https://fromourplace.com/JEFFERSON and use code JEFFERSON for…

Some conversations test your patience. Others test your character. In this call-in episode, I answer your questions about staying calm when emotions run high, setting boundaries with the people you love, handling conflict with confidence, and responding without losing yourself. We talk about how to handle a spouse who won't stop talking, how to tell your friends you hate texting and want them to call you instead, what to do when a parent refuses to use your chosen name, how to navigate political disagreements with family, and whether it's wrong to expect financial help from a wealthy sibling. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter. https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/newsletter Thank you to our sponsors:…

If you've ever wondered how a family goes from talking every week to not talking at all, this conversation is for you. Matthias Barker and I unpack why estrangement rarely happens because of one big moment—it usually comes after years of small moments that were never addressed. We talk about what parents often miss, what adult children wish their parents understood, and why the fastest way to push someone further away is to defend your intentions instead of trying to understand their experience. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: LMNT. Head to https://drinkLMNT.com/jefferson to try risk free. ZocDoc. https://zocdoc.com/jefferson to find and instantly book a doctor you love today. Square. Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at…

What do you say when you start to cry in an argument? Absolutely nothing. In this episode, I break down exactly what to do when your emotions run high and the tears start falling during a tense conversation. We talk about why you should never apologize for crying, how to label your tears so you can keep the conversation moving, and why crying is just your body releasing tension. I also cover what to do when someone else starts crying in front of you—and why handing them a tissue or asking if they need a break is actually the worst thing you can do. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth: Go to ⁠https://cozyearth.com/Jefferson⁠ and use code JEFFERSON for up to 20% off. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount…

The conversations you've been avoiding rarely get easier—they just get more expensive. In this episode, I sit down with Dave Ramsey to talk about what it really takes to tell the truth with kindness, navigate disagreement without making it personal, and have the conversations most people spend years avoiding. If you want to communicate with more confidence, lead with more clarity, and stop letting fear keep you silent, this episode will give you the tools to do it. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Masa Chips. Get 25% off at https://www.masachips.com/pages/jefferson AG1: Visit https://drinkag1.com/jefferson to get a free Morning Person Hat and free AG1 Flavor Sampler in your Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription. BetterHelp. Click…

When someone you care about is grieving, the pressure to say the right thing can be paralyzing. You want to help, but you don't want to make it worse. In this episode, I break down exactly what to say—and what not to say—when someone is dealing with profound loss. We cover why "let me know if you need anything" actually creates more burden for the grieving person, how to eliminate open-ended questions that force them to manage your emotions, and why false positivity is the fastest way to push them away. I'll give you the exact words and actions that show up for people in their darkest moments without requiring them to ask for permission. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Tiny Health: Go to https://tinyhealth.com/jefferson for $50 off your first…

Have you ever talked yourself out of speaking before you even opened your mouth? I think a lot of us have. We convince ourselves that everyone else is smarter, more experienced, or has something more valuable to say. So we stay quiet. The problem is, the more you do that, the easier it becomes to believe the lie that your voice doesn't matter. In this conversation, Tori Kelly shares how she spent years believing people only wanted to hear her sing—not hear what she thought. We talk about where that belief came from, how she learned to challenge it, and what it takes to find the confidence to speak up when your mind is telling you to stay silent. Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at…

If your boss constantly talks down to you, criticizes you, or makes you feel small, you don't have to just take it. In this episode, I share the phrases I would use to set boundaries, communicate with confidence, and handle difficult bosses without losing your professionalism—or your self-respect. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Monarch Money. 50% off your first year at https://monarchmoney.com/jefferson Poncho. $10 off your first order at https://ponchooutdoors.com/jefferson BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review! Suggest a topic or…

What can one of the world's best interviewers teach you about communication? In this conversation, I sit down with Bobby Bones to break down the habits that have helped him interview thousands of people, build lasting relationships, and lead a team that's worked together for more than 20 years. We talk about asking better questions, building trust, handling difficult conversations, and the simple shifts that make every conversation stronger. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Want a FREE communication tip each week? Click here to join my newsletter. https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/newsletter Thank you to our Sponsors: Square. Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at https://square.com/go/JEFFERSON Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. https://cozyearth.com/pages/jefferson BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Like…

Some conversations test your patience. Others test your character. In this call-in episode, I answer your questions about staying calm when emotions run high, setting boundaries with the people you love, handling conflict with confidence, and responding without losing yourself. We talk about how to stop overthinking your boundaries, what to say when someone asks questions you don't want to answer, how to break the cycle of the same argument with your spouse, how to handle backhanded compliments, what to do when someone complains nonstop, when a hard conversation is worth having, how to be taken seriously in a male-dominated industry, and how to be a good man without being a pushover. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: LMNT: Go to…

Every conversation starts with the one you're having with yourself. Hunter Hayes joins me to talk about how self-trust changes the way you communicate, why feeling stuck often starts with the stories you tell yourself, and how finding your own voice makes every relationship stronger. If you've ever struggled to speak up, trust your instincts, or communicate with confidence, this conversation is for you. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Tiny Health: Go to https://tinyhealth.com/jefferson for $50 off your first at-home test kit. Our Place. Visit https://fromourplace.com/JEFFERSON and use code JEFFERSON for 10% off sitewide. BetterHelp.…

Lately I've been wrestling with one idea that keeps showing up—in my own life, in the conversations I have with people, and in the messages so many of you send me. It's the idea of ownership. In this episode, I'm sharing three simple ways ownership can change how you communicate, how you show up in your relationships, and how you move through life with more confidence and peace. If you've been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like you're constantly trying to prove yourself, I think this conversation will meet you right where you are. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/JEFFERSON, and get three months free when you run your first payroll. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on…

Most people think boundaries are about telling someone else what they can or can't do. They're not. Boundaries are about deciding what you'll do when someone crosses the line—and that changes everything. In this conversation, I'm joined by Dr. Henry Cloud, whose work on boundaries has helped millions of people navigate relationships, leadership, and life. We talk about the difference between hope and wishful thinking, the signs someone is genuinely willing to change, why so many difficult conversations fail before they even begin, and how to know when a relationship deserves another chance—or when it's time for a necessary ending. Check out all of Dr. Cloud’s books here - https://www.drcloud.com/books-index Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy…

Some conversations test your patience. Others test your character. In this call-in episode, I answer your questions about staying calm when emotions run high, setting boundaries with the people you love, handling conflict with confidence, and responding without losing yourself. We talk about shifting your mindset from "what if" to "even if," what to do when someone refuses your advice, how to prepare for difficult legal conversations, and simple responses that help you stay grounded when you're faced with criticism or unsolicited advice. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Tiny Health: Go to https://tinyhealth.com/jefferson for $50 off your first at-home test kit. BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your…

Most people think better communication is about saying the right thing. But sometimes it starts with admitting when you're wrong. In this conversation, I sit down with Danica McKellar to talk about the lessons she's learned through parenting, faith, and personal growth. We discuss why apologizing to your kids builds trust, how to stay connected to a teenager who seems distant, and the surprising realization that most of your relationship with your child will happen after they become an adult. We also talk about forgiveness, anxiety, letting go of control, and why some of the most meaningful moments in life are the ones we slow down long enough to notice. Buy Danica’s book, I Love You 100: A Counting Book Full of Love: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/258549/i-love-you-100-a-counting-book-full-of-love-by-danica-mckellar-illustrated-by-josee-masse/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and…

After 33 years of marriage, a woman called in to ask what she should do when her husband won't hug her—and becomes angry when she asks. And y'all, that question opened the door to some really honest conversations about hurt, loneliness, and what we do when the people closest to us don't show up the way we need them to. We also talk about how to deal with intentionally mean people, helping teenagers stand up to bullies, navigating estrangement with an adult child, rebuilding trust after addiction, and how to know whether something is truly wrong in a relationship or if you're simply questioning yourself. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out.…

I sat down with Claire Holt to talk about something we all face sooner or later: what happens when life changes and you don't quite recognize yourself anymore. We talked about motherhood, marriage, guilt, career changes, and the pressure we put on ourselves to have all the answers right now. Claire shared what helped her navigate resentment, uncertainty, and the fear of losing her identity—and what she's learned about giving yourself grace along the way. If you're in a season of change, trying to support a partner through one, or wrestling with some hard questions of your own, I hope this conversation helps you feel a little less alone and a little more equipped to handle the conversations that matter most. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy…

In this episode, I take your calls. We start with a mom whose daughter-in-law has pulled her son away and left her apologizing for things she never did... and the words to stop. Then I get into how to respond when someone asks "why'd you do it like that," how to handle a boss who's just mean, and what to say when someone wants to talk politics and you don't agree. The thread running through all of it: you don't have to keep saying sorry to keep the peace. If you're tired of being the one who always backs down, this episode is for you. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Poncho. $10 off your first order at…

Thomas Rhett has spent more than a decade at the top of country music, but this conversation goes far beyond music. We talk about fatherhood, marriage, faith, success, and the lessons he's learning in this season of life. Thomas opens up about raising five kids, protecting family time in the middle of a demanding career, and why some of the most important decisions he's made have been the opportunities he chose to turn down. This is a conversation about priorities, perspective, and making sure the people you love most get the best version of you. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Upwork. Visit https://Upwork.com right now to post your…

In this episode, I talk about why most arguments don’t actually start with conflict—they start with defensiveness. I share the mindset and communication shifts that have helped me reduce tension in my relationships, stop escalating disagreements, and make people feel heard instead of attacked. If you want fewer fights and better conversations, this episode is for you. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Monarch Money. 50% off your first year at https://monarchmoney.com/jefferson Timeline. Their clinically proven formula is now available at a new, lower price. Mitopure now starts at $79, when you go to https://timeline.com/jefferson…

Olympic gold medalist Shawn Johnson East and former NFL player Andrew East join me for a conversation about marriage, conflict, ambition, and what it really takes to stay committed when life gets hard. We talk about the communication habits they’ve had to unlearn, the systems and check-ins that help keep their marriage strong, and why most people quit too early when things stop feeling easy. This episode is about learning how to grow through the uncomfortable parts instead of running from them—and why commitment might be the thing that gives life the most meaning. Buy their new book, The Courage to Commit https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/787062/the-courage-to-commit-by-shawn-johnson-and-andrew-east/ Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy…

In this call-in episode, I’m answering your real questions about difficult people, passive-aggressive comments, toxic relationships, setting boundaries, and what to say when someone disrespects you. We talk about how to stay calm without staying silent, how to stop overexplaining yourself, and why the right question can completely change a conversation. If you’ve ever struggled with someone who drains your peace, pushes your boundaries, or makes communication feel impossible, this episode is for you. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. LMNT. Head to https://drinkLMNT.com/jefferson to try risk free. Dose. Save 35% on your first month of…

Most people think hospitality is just about service. Will Guidara believes it’s about making people feel seen. In this conversation, Will and I talk about what it really means to care for people well—whether you’re leading a team, managing a business, sitting across from someone you love, or just trying to become a better communicator. From turning Eleven Madison Park into the #1 restaurant in the world to helping create the hit show, The Bear, Will shares the mindset that changed everything for him: the smallest moments often leave the biggest impact. We talk about thoughtful criticism, leading with grace, creating team culture, and why the best communicators listen for what people aren’t saying. Buy Will’s book, Unreasonable Hospitality and the field guide we dug into in today’s episode - https://www.unreasonablehospitality.com/books Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs:…

Today’s episode is a little more personal than usual. I’m listening to your voicemails for the very first time and responding right there in the moment—no script, no prep, just real conversations. We talk about what it feels like when your partner can’t express emotion, how to move forward when someone won’t forgive you, and how to handle those uncomfortable conversations about money, leadership, and family. These are the kinds of situations where there isn’t a perfect line—you just want to get it right. If you’ve ever been in a moment where you didn’t know what to say, or you said the wrong thing and wished you could take it back, this episode is for you. Leave me a voicemail to be featured on the show! https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/ask-jefferson Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at…

There’s a voice in your head—and it’s shaping more of your life than you realize. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Shadé Zahrai to break down the real science behind self-doubt, where it comes from, and why it shows up strongest after your conversations—not before them. We walk through the four hidden “voices” driving your inner critic and how to separate from them so they stop running the show. If you’ve ever replayed a conversation in your head or felt like you’re not enough, this episode gives you the tools to change that. Buy her book Big Trust: Rewire Self-Doubt, Find Your Confidence, and Fuel Success: https://www.shadezahrai.com/bigtrust Take Shadé’s Doubt Profile Quiz: https://www.shadezahrai.com/doubtprofile Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code…

Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ There are three mistakes I see people make in conversations every single day—and they’re quietly destroying relationships without you realizing it. In this episode, I break down why using absolutes like “always” and “never” instantly derails communication, how overexplaining weakens your message, and why the first seven seconds of any conversation matter more than everything that follows. If you want to be heard, respected, and taken seriously, this is where you start. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Butcher Box: $20 off your first box and free shipping at https://butcherbox.com/jefferson Mill. Try risk-free for 90 days and get $75 off at https://www.mill.com/jefferson and use code JEFFERSON at checkout. BetterHelp. Click…

Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and AMAs: https://jefferson.supercast.com/ There’s a version of you that keeps waiting—for permission, for clarity, for someone to hand you the opportunity. In this conversation, I sit down with Emma Grede to challenge that thinking head-on. She breaks down what it actually takes to lead, build, and succeed at the highest level—without hiding behind politeness, fear, or overthinking. If you want more confidence, more clarity, and more control over your life and career, this is where it starts: with yourself. Buy Emma’s new book: Start with Yourself: A New Vision for Work & Life https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Start-With-Yourself/Emma-Grede/9781668085486 Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. LMNT. Head to https://drinkLMNT.com/jefferson to try risk free. Timeline. Their…

Join me on Supercast for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and monthly AMAs:⁠ https://jefferson.supercast.com/⁠ There’s a conversation you’ve been avoiding—and it’s already costing you more than you think. In this episode, I’m breaking down why not saying the hard thing is shaping your relationships in ways you don’t even realize. When you avoid the truth, you keep everyone stuck in a version of reality that isn’t real. I’ll walk you through a simple, practical way to have difficult conversations with clarity, confidence, and respect—without overexplaining or softening the message. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Monarch Money. 50% off your first year at https://monarchmoney.com/jefferson Notion. Try Custom Agents now at https://notion.com/jefferson BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your…

Join The Jefferson Fisher Podcast Premium on Supercast – ⁠https://jefferson.supercast.com/ I’m really excited to share this with you—I’ve launched a premium version of the podcast for those of you who want a more personal, uninterrupted experience and a closer connection to these conversations. You’ll get ad-free episodes, bonus content you won’t hear anywhere else, and AMAs where I answer your real-life questions directly. I read your comments. I hear you. And this is me building something better for you. For this first week, I’m offering a special founder’s promo—20% off when you join. I’m really excited about this. Thanks for being here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt like life is moving fast, you’re doing everything right, but something still feels off? In this episode, I sit down with Arthur Brooks, a behavioral scientist at Harvard University, to talk about why achievement doesn’t always bring fulfillment, how busyness can pull you away from the people you love, and why meaning usually shows up through struggle. We talk about marriage, faith, ambition, and the habits that actually lead to happiness. This conversation made me rethink what success really is—and what kind of life is actually worth building. Visit his website where you can take the tests we talked about in this episode, https://www.arthurbrooks.com/ Check out Arthur’s new book, The Meaning of Your Life: Finding Purpose in an Age of Emptiness Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Mill. Try risk-free for 90 days…

Most people say they want to be more direct, but when the moment comes, they start telling stories, overexplaining, or hoping the other person reads their mind. In this episode, I break down what being direct actually sounds like and why customer service conversations are one of the best places to practice it. I share a simple three-step method you can use anywhere—at work, at home, or in relationships—to say exactly what you mean without sounding harsh. When you learn to stick the landing with your words, people understand you faster, respect you more, and conversations get a whole lot easier. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Butcher Box: $20 off your first box and free shipping at https://butcherbox.com/jefferson Momentous. Visit https://www.livemomentous.com/ and use code JEFFERSON for 35% off your first order. BetterHelp.…

If you struggle to say no, you might not have a boundary problem—you might have an overexplaining problem. In this episode, I break down why giving too many reasons weakens your boundaries, turns your no into a negotiation, and makes it easier for people to push past your limits. I’ll show you how to set firm boundaries with fewer words, stronger statements, and simple phrases you can use right away to protect your time, energy, and peace. Order The Next Conversation Workbook: https://www.jeffersonfisher.com/workbook Thank you to our sponsors: Cozy Earth. Upgrade Your Every Day. Get 20% off at cozyearth.com/jefferson or use code JEFFERSON at check out. Notion: Try Custom Agents now at https://notion.com/jefferson Wayfair. Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ BetterHelp. Click https://betterhelp.com/jeffersonfisher for a discount on your first month of therapy. Order my book, The Next Conversation, or listen to the full audiobook today. Like what you hear? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review!…