Communication

Why your communication begins long before you say a word.

We start with the science. Your brain, your hormones, your emotional wiring, they all shape how you connect. This week gives you the tools to understand those forces and take back control in real moments.

You will learn how to:

- Notice how brain chemicals like dopamine and cortisol shape your attention, tone, and timing.
- Stay calm and grounded even when you feel overwhelmed.
- Use your language to help shift emotions in yourself and others.
- Recognize when someone is reacting from fear or disconnection and respond with empathy.
- Adjust your message and energy for virtual settings, in-person moments, or anything in between.

Lesson 1

The Beautiful Brain

<h1 id="a28f32a9-b7ec-4efe-b679-795f6e06d275" data-toc-id="a28f32a9-b7ec-4efe-b679-795f6e06d275" style="font-size: 32px; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.2;">THE UNSHAKABLE COMMUNICATOR PRACTICUM</h1><h3 id="63a4eaa7-b72b-4281-bd55-e55d1c2843ce" data-toc-id="63a4eaa7-b72b-4281-bd55-e55d1c2843ce" style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.2;">An 8-week, science-backed development experience for professionals who want to communicate with clarity, stay grounded under pressure, and build stronger human connections.</h3>The Unshakable Communicator Practicum is a cohort-based emotional intelligence program that transforms how professionals lead, connect, and navigate real-world conversations. Unlike traditional workshops or “soft skills” seminars, this practicum blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and guided practice to turn EI into a measurable, repeatable skill you can use every day.Over eight weeks, participants move through a structured learning experience that combines weekly live cohort sessions, self-paced learning, and real-world application. You'll learn how to regulate emotional responses, listen with clarity, communicate intentionally, and handle complex or high-pressure conversations with confidence. Small group cohorts (6–8 participants) create accountability, support, and a safe space to practice because communication isn’t improved by information alone, but by experience.Optional biometric insights provide a deeper understanding of how your brain and body respond to stress, emotion, and interpersonal signals, helping you recognize patterns and measure your growth.This practicum is designed for professionals, managers, and emerging leaders who want to increase their influence, improve their relationships, and communicate with greater confidence both at work and in life.<hr><h2 id="3fcf8979-5969-4327-90a2-f5d6c6b33337" data-toc-id="3fcf8979-5969-4327-90a2-f5d6c6b33337" style="font-size: 24px; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.2;">WHAT TO EXPECT</h2><ul><li>Weekly Cohort SessionsPractice communication and EI skills with a small group of engaged peers ready to become unshakable.</li><li>Science-Backed Learning ModulesUnderstand the neuroscience of emotion, attention, stress, and connection - and how these systems shape communication.</li><li>Real-World Application ExercisesApply each week’s tools in actual conversations and reflect on your results.</li><li>Emotional Regulation TechniquesLearn grounding, pacing, awareness, and cognitive strategies to stay steady in challenging moments.</li><li>Communication FrameworksDevelop skills in listening, curiosity, clarity, conflict navigation, and psychological safety.</li><li>Optional Biometric FeedbackUse physiological data to observe stress triggers, activation patterns, and progress over time.</li><li>Accountability &amp; Personalized SupportYour cohort becomes a learning community that supports your growth during and beyond the practicum.</li><li>Lasting IntegrationThe program builds habits through repetition, reflection, and practice - creating durable growth, not temporary insight.</li></ul>

The Unshakable Communicator Practicum is an 8-week, science-backed program that blends emotional intelligence, neuroscience, and real-world practice to help professionals communicate confidently, connect deeply, and lead with clarity.

Course content

Unshakable Communicator Practicum

Sandra Thompson