Dear friends,

What makes a conversation successful?

For me, one thing:

The other person surprised me—and themselves.

***

That surprise is why not to write someone about anything really important.

In the best conversations, there’s magic beyond mere exchange of information.

I tune into what others are truly saying—and what I’m feeling in response.

I gain clarity about my own thoughts and desires.

I navigate even the trickiest topics with empathy and effectiveness.

I’m connected, inspired, and transformed.

***

The opposite of surprise is certainty.

Certainty kills communication—and relationships.

If I ever know what another person is going to say, I stop.

The real living, breathing human being in front of me, or on the other end of the line, no longer exists.

I’m speaking to a made-up person in my head.

The relationship is over.

But I can bring it roaring back to life.

***

Join me in two weeks to learn and experience this transformative power.

The evening of Thursday, November 20, I’m offering a two-hour deep listening masterclass, live via Zoom and open to the public.

Just in time for the holidays and a season of gathering, you’ll walk away with practical tools you can use immediately in the conversations that matter most.

Learn more, grab your ticket, and spread the word at the event website.

Tickets are $89—but enter SURPRISE at checkout for a $10 discount.

Who knows what you’ll get from—and give to—the experience?

And that’s the best part.

Jeremy

jeremynsmith.com (👈 if this email was forwarded to you, you can sign up for my newsletter here)