How do leaders truly understand what’s being said—beyond the words? In this episode, Michael and Christian explore the “Iceberg of Communication,” a powerful model that reveals how most of what we communicate lies beneath the surface.

Through practical insights and stories, they unpack how assumptions, emotions, and non-verbal cues drive behavior and influence. As a leader, learning to see below the surface allows you to lead with empathy, navigate conflict better, and build deeper trust.

Some key takeaways from this episode:

• Most communication is unconscious—awareness is the starting point.
• Emotions, beliefs, and past experiences shape how people hear you.
• Leaders who listen “beneath the words” build stronger connections.
• Misunderstandings often arise from what’s not being said.
• The best communicators decode tone, body language, and context.
• Great leadership is iceberg-aware leadership.

About the Podcasters Michael on LinkedIn: ► http://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-portz Christian on LinkedIn and Instagram: ► http://linkedin.com/in/christiankohlhof ► https://www.instagram.com/christian.kohlhof.leadership/

Our Book CHIEF OF ANYTHING: Why Relaxed-Productive Leadership Improves the World Order it today on Amazon: ► https://amzn.to/2Z5IIXh Or listen on Audible: ► https://tinyurl.com/3swyv548

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