350: What is Motivational Interviewing and Why Should I Care? With Kim Bissett cover art

350: What is Motivational Interviewing and Why Should I Care? With Kim Bissett

350: What is Motivational Interviewing and Why Should I Care? With Kim Bissett

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In today's episode, Heather sits down with Kim Bissett to explore Motivational Interviewing and why it is such a powerful tool for communication, leadership, coaching, and advocacy. Rather than relying on pressure, persuasion, or fixing, Motivational Interviewing focuses on curiosity, collaboration, and helping people uncover their own reasons for change. Drawing from Kim's expertise and Heather's background in law, coaching, and healthcare communication, this conversation breaks down what Motivational Interviewing really is, what it is not, and why it works so well in high stakes conversations. Whether you are leading a team, working with clients, parenting, coaching, or advocating for yourself, this episode shows how changing the way you ask questions can change outcomes. Together, Heather and Kim unpack how Motivational Interviewing builds trust, reduces resistance, and helps people move forward without feeling pushed or judged. In this episode, you'll learn: What Motivational Interviewing Actually Is A clear explanation of the principles behind Motivational Interviewing and why it is more effective than telling people what to do. Why People Resist Change How resistance is often a signal of miscommunication, not stubbornness. The Power of Autonomy Why people are more likely to change when they feel heard, respected, and in control of their choices. Asking Better Questions How open ended questions invite insight, reflection, and ownership. Listening for Change Talk How to recognize the language that signals readiness for growth and how to respond to it. Motivational Interviewing in Real Life How these tools apply in leadership, healthcare, law, coaching, parenting, and everyday conversations. Why This Skill Matters More Than Ever How compassion based communication creates better outcomes in a world full of pressure and noise. In this episode: [00:00] Introducing Kim Bissett and the concept of Motivational Interviewing [02:15] What Motivational Interviewing is and what it is not [04:40] Why advice and fixing often backfire [07:05] Understanding resistance and ambivalence [10:20] The role of curiosity and listening [13:45] How Motivational Interviewing builds trust [16:30] Applying these tools in leadership and advocacy [19:10] Why asking matters more than telling [22:00] Final thoughts on communication that creates change Resources and Links: 📘 Motivational Interviewing Book: Helping People Change by William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick Learn the foundational framework behind Motivational Interviewing and why it works. 🧠 Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) Explore training resources, research, and best practices for Motivational Interviewing. 🌐 Connect with Kim Bissett - Website Learn more about Kim's work, training, and approach to compassionate communication. Connect with Heather: Schedule a call with Heather Follow Heather on Instagram Follow Heather on Facebook Connect with Heather on LinkedIn Website Watch Episodes on Youtube Heather's TikTok ‍ heather@elegantwarrior.com The Elegant Warrior Podcast and content posted by Heather Hansen is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
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