What if the fastest way to deepen every relationship—at home, at work, with friends—wasn’t talking better, but listening differently? Best-selling author and leadership coach Becky Harling joins us to reframe listening as a true superpower. With warmth, humor, and hard-won wisdom, Becky shows how focused attention, empathy (not fixing), and unhurried presence can turn everyday conversations into connection—especially in a lonely, distracted world.

You’ll hear:

• What real listening is: helping someone feel heard, valued, and understood—not just “I caught your words.”

• Why we rush to fix—and how to stop: simple scripts that validate feelings without taking over.

• Practical rituals to slow down: from “walk slowly through the room” to the three-question coffee card.

• Leader takeaways: create space so your team feels heard without over-functioning.

• Friendship in the wild: Becky’s beach-walk story and the power of “Tell me more” and “Are you complete?”

🎧 If you’ve ever wondered why your best intentions don’t land—or how to be the friend/leader people open up to—this episode is your playbook.

Becky Harling

Certified Coach with The John Maxwell Team

Host of The Connected Mom Podcast

Becky Harling is a positive and passionate key note speaker, author, and coach. She loves to inspire audiences to grow their influence by learning to listen more effectively. She’s had the opportunity to speak both nationally and internationally and has found traveling to be one great adventure. Becky is a people person, who loves to meet people and help them thrive. She coaches those looking to improve their communication skills and personal relationships. She is the author of 16 books, including topics on listening and friendship. Her newest book, Friend-Wise, will be released in February. Becky loves hanging out with her husband, kids, and grandkids. She firmly believes that a good cup of strong coffee can be life-changing!

You can connect with Becky at https://beckyharling.com or https://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-harling-31605212/.

©Friendship Institute 2025

Friendship Matters™ is intended to help improve our Friendship IQ. While this generally signals an improvement in our overall wellbeing, this podcast is not intended in any way to offer specific counseling or medical advice. Please seek help from a trained professional.