Chris Hood of CH Digital: Lessons Learned from Google Culture

Chris Hood of CH Digital: Lessons Learned from Google Culture

Author: Dr. Laura Sicola September 5, 2023 Duration: 38:12

This week, Chris Hood of CH Digital and former Head of Digital Strategy at Google discusses the lessons he learned from the communication culture at Google, and how they can be implemented in any business.

In this episode you will learn:

  • How Google established a culture of ‘psychological safety’ and appreciation, and tips on how you can do the same for your company.
  • Why internal communication (or lack thereof!) and toxic communication culture may be the main culprit behind companies not being able to deliver on client projects
  • Insights into the Google interview process for consistently hiring candidates with the right ‘fit’ for your business

24 Hour Challenge:

Conduct a mock podcast interview! Find or have a friend or family member compose 5-10 questions, set up a recording device, and answer those questions on the fly! This will help you become more familiar with topics you WANT to be familiar with, and gives you practice in impromptu speaking.

Reference that Chris makes in the episode:

About Chris Hood :

Chris Hood, a digital strategy expert and author of 'Customer Transformation,' boasts 35+ years in online entertainment, marketing, and business development. Hosting 'The Chris Hood Digital Show,' he guides organizations on innovation and customer-centric leadership. Former roles include heading Google's Digital Business Strategy, crafting transformation programs for Fortune 500 companies, and developing storytelling technologies at Fox Broadcasting & Disney. As a co-founder of Blind Squirrel Games, his influence stretches across multiple industries. Chris also teaches at Southern New Hampshire University.

You can connect with Chris in the following ways:

You can connect with Laura in the following ways:

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola
  • LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vocal-impact-productions/
  • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/VocalImpactProductions
  • Facebook: Vocal Impact Productions
  • Twitter: @LauraSicola
  • Instagram: @VocalImpactProductions
  • Website: https://speakingtoinfluence.com/podcast/
  • Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today

 


Speaking to Influence features conversations about the tangible mechanics of leadership communication, moving beyond theory into practical application. Host Dr. Laura Sicola, an expert in linguistic influence, guides discussions that dissect how language, tone, and presence directly impact credibility and outcomes. Each episode brings a perspective from seasoned executives and industry figures who share their real-world experiences-not just their successes, but the nuanced moments where a single conversation changed a trajectory. The focus here is on the actionable: how to structure a message for a skeptical board, modulate your voice to convey authority without arrogance, and read a room to pivot your approach in real time. This isn't about generic public speaking tips; it's a deep exploration of the strategic choices behind influential speech. Listeners gain access to a toolkit for building confidence, commanding attention, and achieving specific professional results through more intentional communication. The podcast operates at the intersection of business strategy, personal development, and the often-overlooked technical art of persuasion, making it relevant for anyone whose role requires them to lead, sell, or inspire through spoken word. Dr. Sicola's background provides a unique lens, ensuring every conversation yields insights you can use immediately to refine your own impact.
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