272. Say What Sticks: The Neuroscience of Memorable Communication

272. Say What Sticks: The Neuroscience of Memorable Communication

Author: Matt Abrahams, Think Fast Talk Smart March 16, 2026 Duration: 23:35

People are forgetful. Here’s how to make your messages more memorable.


After any presentation, your audience will forget about 90% of what you said. That’s okay, says Carmen Simon — just make sure they remember the right 10%.

Simon is a cognitive neuroscientist, speaker, author, and expert on how the brain processes and retains information. Her research reveals a humbling truth: “We forget our lives almost as quickly as we live them,” she says. But instead of fighting our forgetfulness, Simon believes we can work with it — by getting intentional about what we want people to remember. “So many people aspire at attention and memory, but very few really know what they want to be memorable for,” she says. “Ask the question: what is my 10% message?”

In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Simon and host Matt Abrahams discuss how to distill your communication for maximum memorability. Whether you're pitching an idea or presenting to a team, Simon’s practical techniques will help you ensure your 10% message is the one your audience takes away.

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Chapters:

  • (00:00) - Introduction
  • (02:22) - Attention vs. Memory
  • (04:58) - Novelty & Surprise
  • (06:19) - Why Attention Isn’t Enough
  • (07:47) - The Power of Priming
  • (09:20) - Priming in Business Communication
  • (10:04) - Why Audiences Forget
  • (13:15) - Smart Repetition
  • (14:51) - The Final Three Questions
  • (22:12) - Conclusion

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Ever find yourself scrambling for the right words in a high-stakes meeting or struggling to get your point across clearly? That’s the territory Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques explores. Hosted by Matt Abrahams, a Stanford lecturer and author who understands the real-world pressure of thinking on your feet, this podcast digs into the mechanics of how we connect and convey ideas. Each episode features conversations with specialists across various fields, moving beyond theory to deliver concrete methods you can use immediately. Whether it’s navigating a difficult conversation, structuring a persuasive pitch, or simply becoming a more engaged listener, Matt focuses on the tactical skills that build confidence. The discussions are grounded in his professional experience and academic background, offering a blend of research and relatable application. You’ll hear specific techniques for organizing your thoughts under pressure, using storytelling to make data memorable, and adjusting your communication style for different audiences. This isn’t about abstract concepts; it’s a resource for anyone who needs to influence, lead, or collaborate more effectively in their career and daily interactions. Tune in to this practical podcast for a regular dose of insights that aim to make your communication more intentional and impactful, one conversation at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques
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