The Unexpected Cost of Silence

Have you ever been in a meeting you were invited to, but felt more like an uninvited guest? Many professionals adopt a "wait and see" approach, staying quiet until they feel comfortable. They believe their silence is neutral, but the truth is, it's having a tremendous impact.

In this episode, host Brett Hill reveals the powerful lesson he learned the hard way in a series of intensive group dynamics trainings: when you don't engage, people will invent a story to explain your silence. He shares the direct, surprising feedback he received—"I just thought you were another geeky guy in his head"—and how it taught him the critical importance of "dealing yourself in" early to establish an authentic presence.

Learn why your silence is so powerful, how to reclaim your agency in group settings, and the simple practice you can use this week to be seen and heard for who you truly are.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The surprising and often negative impact your silence has on how colleagues and peers perceive you.
• Why our brains are hardwired to invent stories about people who don't engage—and the kinds of stories they tell.
• The concept of "agency" and how to take control of your own narrative in professional settings.
• A simple, low-stakes practice to "deal yourself in" and ensure your presence is felt authentically.

Explore the Book:

• Discover the principles behind this episode in Brett's upcoming book. the Language Of Mindfulness

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The most important leadership skill... isn't a skill.

It's the quality of your presence.

In a world of constant disconnection, the ability to deepen your presence is what makes you memorable and believable. How you speak, listen, and connect— are all transformed, allowing you to turn ordinary conversations into extraordinary experiences.

This principle is the foundation of The Mindful Coach Podcast where we explore the practice of presence and mindful communications in life and work - in way that practical and actionable.

Hosted by Brett Hill—ICF-certified coach and coach trainer, former Microsoft technologist, public speaker, and founder of The Mindful Coach Association. This show is a space to explore how presence, somatic awareness, and authentic communication can improve the quality of your professional life and moment-to-moment experience.

Through honest personal stories, practical tools, and deep reflection, each episode is an invitation to show up with more clarity, compassion, and connection.

Connect & Go Deeper:

• THE MINDFUL COACH LETTERS - twice weekly reflections, stories, and insight
• THE BOOK: Sign up for updates on Brett's upcoming book, The Language of Mindfulness.

👉The Language of Mindfulness - Pre Release

• THE PROGRAM: For hands-on guidance, explore the 8-week experience, The Presence Process for Professionals.

The Mindful Coach Podcast: Where presence is the foundation for extraordinary leadership and a life connected to deeper meaning.