March 10, 2010 - Issue 376

“Crowd-sourcing” request for input on the SpeakStrong Website

Are you familiar with the term "crowd-sourcing"? It refers to putting out an open call for input to non-employees. The New Dynamics of Communication are synocratically inclusive. Crowd-sourcing is one feature of that.

In summary, my question is: how can I serve you better?

I invite input via the blog, or email me here. Thanks.

Success story: Admin gracertively got manager to cut workload

This phrase come from a Joseph Grenny post on Crucial Conversations. The author’s assistant couldn’t keep up with her expanding responsibilities. She addressed the issue by listing what she does for him that makes the biggest contribution. He agreed with the list. Then she observed...

March 3, 2010 - Issue 375

Harvard Business Review post nails the need to consider image in choosing words and Speaking Strong

What kind of person are you?

Are you the kind of person who works cheap? Are you the kind of person who helps those in need?

Peter Bregman highlights the importance of asking for things in ways that enhance self image in an article about motivation in Harvard Business Review. Bregman reported that when AARP asked some lawyers if they would reduce their fee to $30 an hour to help needy retirees, the lawyers declined. Then they asked the lawyers if they would do it for free. The lawyers agreed.

Reader Question: Odd man (woman) out.

February 24, 2010 - Issue 374

SpeakStrong and management insights from CBS’ “The Undercover Boss”

If you ever think upper management doesn’t know what you do, or you suspect you might not know what goes on with the people you manage, you’ll find The Undercover Boss to be an interesting show. CEO's of organizations work in entry positions of their own companies to see what it’s really like out there. Whatever its flaws, The Undercover Bossshows how illuminating it can be for leaders and managers to shadow their employees. 

Reader Question: Delivering other manager's feedback to my team.

February 17, 2010 - Issue 373

Finding the Lost Generation, and the opportunity in the argument.

Have you found The Lost Generation video? It reads the exact opposite backwards as forward. Not only does it read the opposite, the meaning is the exact opposite. It's only a 1 minute, 44 second video and it is brilliant. Make sure you read as well as listen forward and backward.

Reader Question: Handling food despots

February 4, 2010 - Issue 372

This Week in the World: Dewey the Library Cat has emotional clout, more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: Passing rumors is gossip
Poison Phrase Tip: I'll have Nancy do that

Reader Question: Can suggestions wait?

January 13, 2010 - Issue 371

This Week in the World: MBTS: Management by throwing spaghetti at the wall, more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: I’m here to check in with you, not check up on you, more...
Poison Phrase Tip: Teachable moment

Reader Question: Abusing sick leave

December 16, 2009 - Issue 370

This Week in the World: Questions, Code white, Inner city youth
PowerPhrase of the Week: This is an exciting, This is not the response, more...
Poison Phrase Tip: Create a Walking Wounded Dictionary

Reader Questions: How do I tell CUSTOMERS they smell bad?

November 27, 2009 - Issue 369

This Week in the World: SpeakStrong gift ideas, upcoming Webinar, Language and Awareness...
PowerPhrase of the Week: What upside suggestions do you have?
Poison Phrase Tip: Create a Walking Wounded Dictionary

Success Story: Conversation about hygiene changes a life

November 19, 2009 - Issue 368

This Week in the World: Women in male-dominated industries, more
PowerPhrase of the Week: I like to keep my personal life separate to my work, more
Poison Phrase of the Week: You're angry, aren't you?

Reader Success Story: Feeling words dispel anger

November 12, 2009 - Issue 367

This Week in the World: Perfect wording encompasses precision and beauty
PowerPhrase of the Week: What are you not saying?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Like that's going to happen

Reader Question: How do I talk about my criminal record in job interviews?
Reader Story: No story this week

November 4, 2009 - Issue 366

This Week in the World: It's not a man's world out there anymore mp3, new Secret Last Laugh Blog
PowerPhrase of the Week: Let's meet in person to discuss this
Poison Phrase of the Week: You have a few feminine traits. That's okay. Most men do.
...., more

Reader Question: When subordinates abuse power
Reader Story: No story this week

October 29, 2009 - Issue 365

This Week in the World: I NEED YOUR HELP: What changes would you like to see in my book revisions?
PowerPhrase of the Week: May I put the ball in your court for this?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Are you afraid to drive on ice and snow?

Reader Question: How to respond when someone tells you that you don't look sick?
Reader Story: No story this week

October 23, 2009 - Issue 364

This Week in the World: Art sweetens the bitterness of life, gender communication, more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: Let's make up for lost time, more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: We will never have a good working relationship

Reader Question: Personal hygiene revisited
Reader Story: A loud radio

September 9, 2009 - Issue 363

This Week in the World: Feedback Tip: Lucy’s football, metaphors and expectations management, more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: Your employees are priority, not distraction, more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Will power

Reader Question: No reader question this week
Success Story: No success story this week

September 2, 2009 - Issue 362

This Week in the World: Feedback Tip: Take the gift, do not drink the poison, more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: the impact is...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Haven't we already had this conversation?

Reader Question: Responses for inappropriate questions
Success Story: No success story this week

August 26, 2009 - Issue 361

This Week in the World: Alligators and empowerment: Speak Strong, Smart or Sweet?
PowerPhrase of the Week: Yes and..., Is it a "don't know," "can't do," or a "won't do" situation, more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Are you nice or necessary?, more...

Reader Question: A verbal alligator pit called work
Success Story: No success story this week

August 19, 2009 - Issue 360

This Week in the World: Perfunctory performance reviews and other empty words, Crying over maudlin movies
PowerPhrase of the Week: My goal is to help you succeed, Exaggeration as a humor tool, more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Parties without pickles

Reader Question: An unresponsive bus driver, more...
Success Story: No success story this week

August 13, 2009 - Issue 359

This Week in the World: Opera of the ordinary, SpeakStrong for study groups
PowerPhrase of the Week: Hit the ground dancing, more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Reaching for simplicity

Reader Question: Getting a strong employee to dial it back
Success Story: Remember the times he made you smile

July 29, 2009 - Issue 358

This Week in the World: The fine art of working playfully, the destructive art of turning play into work, more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: And that's how the fight ended, more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Have to...

Reader Question: No Reader Question this week
Success Story: No Success Story this week

July 22, 2009 - Issue 357

This Week in the World: The power of the decision to SpeakStrong
PowerPhrase of the Week: Stop what you're doing and watch..., more...
Poison Phrase of the Week: A woman your age...

Reader Question: Phrases for counseling report, Do some people bully, no matter what you say?
Success Story: I got what I needed

July 16, 2009 - Issue 356

This Week in the World: Movie Doubt exposes SpeakStrong challenges, Romance novel, The boy who cried owww, Are you a codependent fool? more...
PowerPhrase of the Week: What's working?, Detective Mom
Poison Phrase of the Week: Stop ordering refrigerators

Reader Question: How do I talk to an angry customer?
Success Story: Humor is a Financial Professional's best tool

July 7, 2009 - Issue 355

This Week in the World: David Meerman Scott and NIA, Sign, New books, new film, Speaking to Lov...
PowerPhrase of the Week: I saw it first
Poison Phrase of the Week: Are you sure you want to...

Reader Question: No reader question this week
Success Story: If you love a good cry...

June 23, 2009 - Issue 354

This Week in the World: Is your email bugging you? New book
PowerPhrase of the Week: How to say No
Poison Phrase of the Week: The camera was cruel

Reader Question: Poison Phrases and self-esteem
Success Story: No success story this week

June 18, 2009 - Issue 353

This Week in the World: A renewed sense of aliveness, New article
PowerPhrase of the Week: Your complaint reflects a yearning
Poison Phrase of the Week: Kids and Old People

Reader Question: Control issues
Success Story: Another sobering and refreshing conversation

June 10, 2009 - Issue 352

This Week in the World: Hype-fatigue in sobering times, Icon names
PowerPhrase of the Week: I don't need to exaggerate
Poison Phrase of the Week: Communication month euphoria

Reader Question: Anger journal
Success Story: A sobering and refreshing conversation

June 3, 2009 - Issue 351

This Week in the World: Naming icons, People who like us, Overcoming gobbledygook, Toxic personalities or toxic traits?
Reader Input requests: "Dear Colleague" and other salutation pet peeves
Poison Phrase of the Week: We get complaints about her all the time

Reader Question: Managing the micromanager
Success Story: "Think, feel, and want" helps me talk to my unemployed hubby

May 19, 2009 - Issue 350

This Week in the World: What a great week, book launch
Power Phrase of the Week: For kids: Think of what questions you want to ask the doctor
Poison Phrase of the Week: You didn’t ask for pain-killer

Reader Question: Dunno
Success Story: A united communication effort among nurses

May 12, 2009 - Issue 349

This Week in the World: He didn't know he couldn't so he did, Twitter on, Bullies
Power Phrase of the Week: Feel, felt, found
Poison Phrase of the Week: That's a terrible idea

Reader Question: Not the King's English
Quick Tip: Ignite your verbs

May 7, 2009 - Issue 348

This Week in the World: Twitter, emotional awareness and skill, new article
Power Phrase of the Week: Your cancer won't wait
Poison Phrase of the Week: Under new management

Reader Question: Usurping my authority
Success Story: Award name change

April 29, 2009 - Issue 347

This Week in the World: Feedback, Psyche's 1st task, and the bully article
Power Phrase of the Week: That’s a separate issue
Poison Phrase of the Week: An undeserved one-star rating

Reader Question: Passing complaints up the ladder
Success Story: Responding to criticism with questions

April 16, 2009 - Issue 345

This Week in the World: Feedback, Toastmasters International
Power Phrase of the Week: The way I work best is...
Poison Phrase of the Week: And your point is...?

Reader Question: No bonuses this year: Performance evaluation question
Success Story: No story this week...

April 22, 2009 - Issue 346

This Week in the World: The 4th task...saying no, New article, New NIA dance workout DVDs
Power Phrase of the Week: Describe your vision
Poison Phrase of the Week: I'll bethe doctor and you be the nurse

Reader Question: Word power tool
Success Story: No story this week...

April 16, 2009 - Issue 345

This Week in the World: Feedback, Toastmasters International
Power Phrase of the Week: The way I work best is...
Poison Phrase of the Week: And your point is...?

Reader Question: No bonuses this year: Performance evaluation question
Success Story: No story this week...

April 7, 2009 - Issue 344

This Week in the World: Big stories, myths, and accumulating power
Power Phrase of the Week: Thanks for reminding me
Poison Phrase of the Week: I thought about asking that but didn't...

Reader Question: I'd like to finish my own sentences
Success Story: Negotiating workload limits

April 2, 2009 - Issue 343

This Week in the World: Martial Arts and communication, New SpeakStrong Story
Power Phrase of the Week: I picked up the phone in case the call was urgent
Poison Phrase of the Week: He’s the teacher. I shouldn't question his decision

Reader Question: From the blog: Scary dogs
Success Story: The Detective Mom gives good advice and so does the assistant coach

March 18, 2009 - Issue 341

This Week in the World: Challenges of getting conscious, New articles and a new DVD presentation for Assistants
Power Phrase of the Week: How would I know that?
Poison Phrase of the Week: No one could have seen it coming - and the court jester is the smartest one in the kingdom

Reader Question: Insincere PowerPhrases are Poison Phrases
Success Story: No story this week

March 25, 2009 - Issue 342

This Week in the World: Three speaking events announced, a new "Shareable Parable," Men and Woman...One of us must be crazy
Power Phrase of the Week: The man I love (manager I support, etc.) keeps interrupting me
Poison Phrase of the Week: Things take care of themselves

Reader Question: No question this week
Success Story: My puppies found the ball

March 18, 2009 - Issue 341

This Week in the World: Challenges of getting conscious, New articles and a new DVD presentation for Assistants
Power Phrase of the Week: How would I know that?
Poison Phrase of the Week: No one could have seen it coming - and the court jester is the smartest one in the kingdom

Reader Question: Insincere PowerPhrases are Poison Phrases
Success Story: No story this week

March 11, 2009 - Issue 340

This Week in the World: Abandoning gender-neutral language, dismissive language
Power Phrase of the Week: I never agreed to...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Blame your assistant...

Reader Question: Abusive comments
Success Story: Speaking Strong to preserve a friendship

March 4, 2009 - Issue 339

This Week in the World: Juggling, new stories, SpeakStrong Keynote, and gender neutral language
Power Phrase of the Week: Notice what's happening now
Poison Phrase of the Week: Your letter of excuses

Reader Question: Foot-in-mouth-disease
Success Story: No story this week

February 26, 2009 - Issue 338

This Week in the World: A way in, SpeakStrong changes your communication operating system
Power Phrase of the Week: Ask me privately and I will consider it. Ask me in front of others, I'll say no
Poison Phrase of the Week: Go with the flow

Reader Question: Are you making stuff up?
Success Story: Kid heroes

February 11, 2009 - Issue 336

This Week in the World: Space, stories, babies, bathwater, flow, and the feminine, SpeakStrong in Love posts, Reader discussion results
Power Phrase of the Week: Maybe the problem is with the instructions
Poison Phrase of the Week: I will fight for you

Reader Question: How do I address excessive breaks?
Success Story: Manipulative communication

February 18, 2009 - Issue 337

This Week in the World: Sometimes there are no perfect words
Power Phrase of the Week: Now you're being mean
Poison Phrase of the Week: You now have three new friends

Reader Question: Meeting scheduling?
Success Story: No story this week

February 11, 2009 - Issue 336

This Week in the World: Space, stories, babies, bathwater, flow, and the feminine, SpeakStrong in Love posts, Reader discussion results
Power Phrase of the Week: Maybe the problem is with the instructions
Poison Phrase of the Week: I will fight for you

Reader Question: How do I address excessive breaks?
Success Story: Manipulative communication

February 4, 2009 - Issue 335

This Week in the World: Women civilized the Wild West and are civilizing politics too, "MerylFan" takes me to task, New articles
Power Phrase of the Week: You’ve done everything he’s asked you to do and you’ve done it well. Why wouldn’t he keep piling work on you?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Thanks for the $50. I used it to put the dog to sleep.

Reader Question: A non-verbal Poison Phrase
Success Story: It's my body and I'm telling you, this is not normal.

January 28, 2009 - Issue 334

This Week in the World: Transforming anxiety into energy, Word Trippers, 2 new articles, Free eBook from Wendy Mack, Reader discussion submissions and contest
Power Phrase of the Week: After so many years of working here, my people deserve more than a half hour to gather their things
Poison Phrase of the Week: Julie is so scattered

Reader Question: Dominating peer
(Fictional) Success Story: Desperate Housewives scores again

January 21, 2009 - Issue 333

This Week in the World: A great day for new beginnings, Brand Aid article, an invitation for reader discussions and contests
Power Phrase of the Week: My pleasure
Poison Phrases of the Week: Money-back guarantee, high-energy hysterical presentation

Reader Question: New book?
Reader Success: We agreed

January 14, 2009 - Issue 332

This Week in the World: New article, Mixed messages, feedback, and life-saving conversations
Power Phrase of the Week: Explanations, not apologies
Poison Phrase of the Week: I guess you’ll just have to put up with me

Reader Question: Made up questions?
Reader Success: Courage, fear, and priorities

December 24, 2008 - Issue 331

This Week in the World: Great advice
Power Phrase of the Week: That's why I say...
Poison Phrase of the Week: Should I send you some samples to try?

Reader Comment: There's a point

December 18, 2008 - Issue 330

This Week in the World: Relationship challenges are true opportunities, Cut to the core
Power Phrase of the Week: I'd be delighted to do that for you
Poison Phrase of the Week: That's ridiculous

Reader Question: Holiday dilemma
Reader Success Story: Kim's title search was a remarkable success

December 11, 2008 - Issue 329

This Week in the World: Pandora's Box, closets, and parole
Power Phrase of the Week: Please take me off speakerphone
Poison Phrase of the Week: Partnership opportunity

Reader Question: Parole
Reader Success Story: No story this week

December 5, 2008 - Issue 328

This Week in the World: Speak Strong - The Book, Childrening, Junior Achievement couldn't handle him
Power Phrase of the Week: Working uninterrupted
Poison Phrase of the Week: Cross me off your list, Its as far away as it always was

Reader Question: Help Kim find her perfect job title
Reader Success Story: Let's have some fun together first

November 6, 2008 - Issue 327

This Week in the World: Communication sensitivities, Obama win
Power Phrase of the Week: Thank you for sharing your loss
Poison Phrase of the Week: You wouldn't be interested

Ask Meryl: When the boss side-talks
Reader Success Story: Negotiating with an Ex

October 7, 2008 - Issue 326

This Week in the World: Grace under fire, TeleSeminar announcement - October 8
Power Phrase of the Week: We're not here to judge you, Bonus Phrases
Poison Phrase of the Week: If you believe that, you'll believe anything

Ask Meryl: Job description tips
Reader Success Story: Zen communication

October 1, 2008 - Issue 325

This Week in the World: Clean out your verbal and emotional closets, TeleSeminar announcement - October 8
Power Phrase of the Week: Last time I checked
Poison Phrase of the Week: A great job of...

Ask Meryl: A real tear stopper
Reader Success Story: Discretionary time

September 9, 2008 - Issue 324

This Week in the World: TeleSeminar tomorrow, My three day emotional management policy, What a week in politics
Power Phrase of the Week: These are tears of anger
Poison Phrase of the Week: Don't go getting all emotional on me

Ask Meryl: No question this week
Reader Success Story: I broke the habit

September 3, 2008 - Issue 323

This Week in the World: The Say What You Mean TeleSeminar Series, Truth about love upcoming TeleSeminar, Love removes the labor of love
Power Phrase of the Week: Discretionary time
Poison Phrase of the Week: They're too cheap to attend

Ask Meryl: Gossip in the ranks
Reader Success Story: When you calm down, if you want me back, call me

August 28, 2008 - Issue 322

This Week in the World: Transcend the guilt trap, Get love inspired, The truth about love, Quote of the day subscriber comment
Power Phrase of the Week: The burden of proof is on you
Poison Phrase of the Week: That's what I said

Ask Meryl: Not my native tongue ~ keys to changing habits
Reader Success Story: The power of silence

August 21, 2008 - Issue 321

This Week in the World: The power of silence
Power Phrase of the Week: Sweet silence
Poison Phrase of the Week: Empty conversation, nervous chatter

Ask Meryl: No question this week
Reader Success Story: Transition time

August 8, 2008 - Issue 320

This Week in the World: An invitation to SpeakStrong in Love, People House
Power Phrase of the Week: Call in the Coach
Poison Phrase of the Week: I don't suppose

Ask Meryl: The problem with...
Reader Success Story: No story this week

August 4, 2008 - Issue 319

This Week in the World: The way into someone's heart, articles and blog posts
Power Phrase of the Week: A distraught man entered a church
Poison Phrase of the Week: Industry Standard

Ask Meryl: Who asked you?
Reader Story: The "Merrill Reunion"

July 28, 2008 - Issue 318

This Week in the World: Blowing your cover, Big colorful shoes to fill in Boulder and Colorado Springs
Power Phrase of the Week: Tell me what it's like to die
Poison Phrase of the Week: They're all the same

Ask Meryl: How game are you really?
Reader Success Story: Hostile environment

July 22, 2008 - Issue 317

This Week in the World: Corporations and conventions, Didgeridoo and relationships too
Power Phrase of the Week: I can tell you now it won't work for us
Poison Phrase of the Week: Most of these claims have been verified by Snopes.com

Ask Meryl: Unaccountable employees
Reader Comments: Teleseminar

July 15, 2008 - Issue 316

This Week in the World: A heart-warming letter, Relationship by agreement, Yoga and relationships
Power Phrase of the Week: I understand how you could see it that way
Poison Phrase of the Week: We have no choice

Ask Meryl: God Bless
Reader Discussion: Encouraging words

July 8, 2008 - Issue 315

This Week in the World: You are invited to a complimentary Enhanced Relationship Communication Telephone Seminar this Thursday
Power Phrase of the Week: The best that could happen
Poison Phrase of the Week: Loretta resigned

Ask Meryl: Argue?
Reader Comment: No comment this week

July 1, 2008 - Issue 314

This Week in the World: Life is personal, and the best communication is too
also...Posts on Unite and Concur and Management Skill Training
Power Phrase of the Week: You
Poison Phrase of the Week: Trust the process

Ask Meryl: The 8-5-ers don't get it
Reader Comment: Tears are the best

June 19, 2008 - Issue 313

This Week in the World: The power of tears, anger, and getting out of your head
also...A World of Truth flash movie and an upcoming teleSeminar
Power Phrase of the Week: With all the people you could be spending your life with, thanks for choosing me.
Poison Phrase of the Week: No

Ask Meryl: Telemarketer tribulations
Reader Success Story: It is possible to get managers to listen to feedback

June 10, 2008 - Issue 312

This Week in the World: New articles: The secret power of tears: How to cry your heart open and SpeakStrong in love and Sex and the City provides the role model of sisterly love...sort of: A SpeakStrong definition of friendship
also...Posts to Unite and Concur, Competing with an eleven year old, Competing at all?
Power Phrase of the Week: I'd like to see you move past this one quickly
Poison Phrase of the Week: Please remit payment to...

Ask Meryl: How to get managers to listen to feedback
Reader Success Story: It cost me my job, but I spoke up

May 28, 2008 - Issue 311

This Week in the World: A new article, Constructive Anger
• The most effective way to communicate
Power Phrase of the Week: Squeak
Poison Phrase of the Week: You can't tell this to anyone

Ask Meryl: References
Reader Comment: Here are the improvements we've seen

May 21, 2008 - Issue 310

This Week in the World: A new article, For the love of...people, work, ideas...
Power Phrase of the Week: Let me finish my sentence because I'd like your input
Poison Phrase of the Week: Feel better?

Ask Meryl: Just an excuse
Reader Success Story: Here are the improvements we've seen

May 14, 2008 - Issue 309

This Week in the World: A policy of asking
Power Phrase of the Week: Crumb management problem
Poison Phrase of the Week: Point well taken, Love is a battlefield

Ask Meryl: Computer maintenance
Reader Success Story: Love

May 6, 2008 - Issue 308

This Week in the World: Political bullying...in kindergarden?
Power Phrase of the Week: I'll let that one go because I can tell how angry you are
Poison Phrase of the Week: It's not my money

Ask Meryl: Did you send that out?
Reader Success Story: The smell of a Poison Phrase

April 30, 2008 - Issue 307

This Week in the World: Welcome new subscribers, Termination revelation, Feeding what you want
Power Phrase of the Week: I've got some interesting ideas to share at the meeting
Poison Phrase of the Week: Pain killer

Ask Meryl: Terribly busy
Reader Success Story: No story this week

April 9, 2008 - Issue 306

This Week in the World: Indefensibly defending vulgarity, The right way to ask, Wendy explains the why of "why"
Power Phrase of the Week: If I don't hear back from you by...I'll call you
Poison Phrase of the Week: I commend a lot of power around here because I intimidate people, and Termination

Ask Meryl: I don't know how to tell people I don't know
Reader Success Story: Who' s entitled to an opinion?

April 2, 2008 - Issue 305

This Week in the World: Strengths or weaknesses?
Power Phrase of the Week: I'm not in a position to give you advice on that
Poison Phrase of the Week: Raking Stephen Pierce over the coals

Ask Meryl: Unendorseable
Reader Success Story: Comfortable termination

March 27, 2008 - Issue 304

This Week in the World: Creativity for Peace, Top of the World
Power Phrase of the Week: I can understand that
Poison Phrase of the Week: You failed to include

Ask Meryl: Absent boss
Reader Comment: Speaking up more

March 18, 2008 - Issue 303

This Week in the World: Cuss addicts, Horton Speaks Strong
Power Phrase of the Week: How do you suggest I respond when you do that?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Someone walked in and disrupted my focus

Ask Meryl: Lacking Skills
Reader Comment: Horton Hears a Who

March 11, 2008 - Issue 302

This Week in the World: Pippi Power = IQ + EQ + SQ
Power Phrase of the Week: Over a quarter million sold
Poison Phrase of the Week: This is better than your last one

Ask Meryl: Promotion
Reader Comment: Privacy Statement

February 27, 2008 - Issue 301

This Week in the World: A new kind of power
Power Phrase of the Week: I think of something you said
Poison Phrase of the Week: Business P-i-m-p

Ask Meryl: One job at a time
Success Story: Making the work manageable

February 13, 2008 - Issue 300

This Week in the World: Love, boundaries, Speaking Strong, and poetry
Power Phrase of the Week: It gives me a chance to love her unconditionally
Poison Phrase of the Week: Any words that separate you from love

Ask Meryl: No question this week
Success Story: Poetry mends fences

February 5, 2008 - Issue 299

This Week in the World: An early interview
• Set your own standards
Power Phrase of the Week: Can it wait?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Fallacy is the new truth

Ask Meryl: A boss without boundaries
Success Story: Customer service clarity

January 8, 2008 - Issue 298

This Week in the World: Doing what it takes
• Caucus conversations
Power Phrase of the Week: The key of imagination
Poison Phrase of the Week: You haven't been here long enough to understand

Ask Meryl: Relative rules
Success Story: A healing dialogue

December 19, 2007 - Issue 297

This Week in the World: People "Paid it Forward" at Starbucks
• Unite and Concur
Power Phrase of the Week: What would you guess we agree about on the topic?
Poison Phrase of the Week: You sound angry

Ask Meryl: Loud roommate
Success Story: Honey do - but not today

December 5, 2007 - Issue 296

This Week in the World: Give SpeakStrong as a holiday gift. After all, PowerPhrases! are cheaper by the dozen...and even in smaller quantities.
     • Writer's voice interview
     • What would you like to know about how to talk to your political opposite?
Power Phrase of the Week: Five minutes of your undivided attention now could save us hours later.
Poison Phrase of the Week: Poison Phrase pet peeves.

Ask Meryl: Adolescent communication
Success Story: I'm doing my job by asking you to do yours.

November 28, 2007 - Issue 295

This Week in the World: If Speaking Strong was easy, everyone would do it...and: If everyone Spoke Strong, Speaking Strong would be easy.
Power Phrase of the Week: Minutes away - Worlds apart
Poison Phrase of the Week: You worry about doing this and I'll worry about doing that.

Ask Meryl: Guilt by association
Success Story: A favor returned

November 20, 2007 - Issue 294

This Week in the World: A clear winner on the SpeakStrong wristband byline
• Speaking of contests...
• How did you hear it....political "mud slinging
Power Phrase of the Week: I'm not prepared to lie for myself, so I certainly won't lie for you
Poison Phrase of the Week: Do what?

Ask Meryl: Contradiction
Success Story: Clarity with a vendor

November 13, 2007 - Issue 293

This Week in the World: SpeakStrong Wristband Byline Selection is down to two options
Power Phrase of the Week: Better things to think about
Poison Phrase of the Week: Sorry to be blunt

Ask Meryl: Sorry to be blunt
Success Story: I know why he doesn't trust you

November 6, 2007 - Issue 292

This Week in the World: Vote for a SpeakStrong Wristband Byline
Power Phrase of the Week: Recalculate
Poison Phrase of the Week: I get more calls on my day off

Ask Meryl: Embarrassing Remarks
Success Story: A timely manner

October 30, 2007 - Issue 291

This Week in the World: Vote for a SpeakStrong Wristband Byline
Smart women need to Speak Strong - New Interview Audio Posted
Power Phrase of the Week: It wouldn't be honest
Poison Phrase of the Week: You don't like Hillary, do you?

Ask Meryl: No question this week
Success Story: Getting the boss to respond

October 23, 2007 - Issue 290

This Week in the World: Watch Meryl's Life Lessons Interview
– SpeakStrong Wristband...I need imput - contest
– Body shop founder tribute raises compelling SpeakStrong questions
Power Phrase of the Week: How to be an assertive woman without inviting the "B" label
Poison Phrase of the Week: Consider the alternative

Ask Meryl: No question this week
Success Story: Poetry power opens the heart in conflict

October 16, 2007 - Issue 289

This Week in the World: I'm in the new Chicken Soup book - Life Lessons for Loving the Way You Live
     2 New Articles: Take the time to say it right: the folly of gotta-go communication and
                             Reasonableness is your best revenge.
Power Phrase of the Week: Why would a reasonable person behave this way?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Is "Media Monitors" a criminal organization?

Ask Meryl: Unwelcome houseguest
Success Story: I will no longer tolerate this

October 9, 2007 - Issue 288

This Week in the World: Life is a campaign
     A poem posted this week...
     New Article: Diversity Landmines: Educate and Move On
Power Phrase of the Week: What would you do if you didn't feel intimidated/guilty/vengeful?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Desperate diversity

Ask Meryl: No response
Success Story: Now I'm Angry

October 2, 2007 - Issue 287

This Week in the World: Questions are the answer
Power Phrase of the Week: I'd like actual numbers to base my decision on
Poison Phrase of the Week: Blame it on TIVO

Ask Meryl: No question this week
Success Story: Are you aware...

September 25, 2007 - Issue 286

This Week in the World: Don't hang up while I insult you
Power Phrase of the Week: I owe you a whole new carpet
Poison Phrase of the Week: There's a reason for this

Ask Meryl: Task Rivalry
Success Story: No story this week

September 18, 2007 - Issue 285

This Week in the World: Tailhook, gender talk and sexual harassment
New SpeakStrong Book Review: Retiring the Generation Gap
Power Phrase of the Week: What happens if you don't do anything
Poison Phrase of the Week: Ten, nine, eight...

Ask Meryl: I'm with him
Success Story: A Lithuainian toast

September 11, 2007 - Issue 284

This Week in the World: 9/11 changed everything. What did it change for you?
Please read my post about 9/11 on the blog
Two new articles posted: 9/11 and Other Life-Changing Traumas - How and Why We Need to Talk, and...
Six Steps to ReRail the Derailed Discussion

Power Phrase of the Week: We have a policy of putting our patients first. I didn't follow my policy that day.
Poison Phrase of the Week: Kids can be so loud and obnoxious

Ask Meryl: Difficulty in communicating with women
Success Story: No story this week

September 4, 2007 - Issue 283

This Week in the World: A Distraction Tactic
Feedback Request: Meryl's new book title
Feedback Request: Meryl's new blog design
Quickbooks / Shopping Cart Discussion

Power Phrase of the Week: Action needed
Poison Phrase of the Week: Get a little closer to the camera

Ask Meryl: No Question this week
Success Story: Important book - reflections from a former colleague

August 28, 2007 - Issue 282

This Week in the World: A flair for the dramatic
Power Phrase of the Week: What do you admire about each other?
Poison Phrase of the Week: The nature of the beast

Ask Meryl: Casual dress
Success Story: No more hate speech
Blog Post of the Week

August 14, 2007 - Issue 281

This Week in the World: She took it like a man
Power Phrase of the Week: Please use my spot to invite a woman
Poison Phrase of the Week: Quit your whining

Ask Meryl: Pay increase
Success Story: No Story This Week
Blog Post of the Week

August 7, 2007 - Issue 280

From "You v. Me" to We: "How to Talk to Your Communication Opposite" Teleseminar with Meryl Runion

This Week in the World: Don't just talk about the bad stuff
Power Phrase of the Week: Shell-shocked
Poison Phrase of the Week: For that reason

Ask Meryl: Interview weakness question
Success Story: No Story This Week
Blog Post of the Week

July 31, 2007 - Issue 279

From "You v. Me" to We: "How to Talk to Your Communication Opposite" Teleseminar with Meryl Runion

This Week in the World: That's Not Entertainment
Power Phrase of the Week: Is There Anything Else I Can Do For You Now?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Well, Have You Chosen the Trim Color Yet?

Ask Meryl: Incompetence
Success Story: No Story This Week
Blog Post of the Week

July 24, 2007 - Issue 278

How To Say Anything to Anyone: Communication Style Teleseminar with Meryl Runion
Teleseminar FACs
Movie Time: Sicko
Book Review: Hypnotic Writing

This Week in the World: How Bad is It?
Toastmaster's Article
Power Phrase of the Week: That's Fascinating. Tell Me More.
Poison Phrase of the Week: How to Seduce Your Customers

Ask Meryl: I Don't Know
Success Story: I'll Look at it With You.
Blog Post of the Week

July 17, 2007 - Issue 277

Did You Miss Me?

How To Say Anything to Anyone: Communication Style Teleseminar with Meryl Runion

This Week in the World: One Reality, Two Communication Styles
Book Review: Made to Stick
Power Phrase of the Week: Change How You Listen
Poison Phrase of the Week: Joe Was Surprised

Ask Meryl: Tone it Down Without Losing it
Success Story: The Perfect Hire

June 26, 2007 - Issue 276

They Persuaded Us to Offer How to Write Persuasively Again : How to Add Power and Persuasion to Your Writing Telephone Conference with Meryl Runion and Barbara McNichol

This Week in the World: Why is this Happening Again
Power Phrase of the Week: Because
Poison Phrase of the Week: Water the Dog

Ask Meryl: College Apps
Success Story: Conference Conflicts

June 19, 2007 - Issue 275

Two Days Left to Get Persuasive : How to Add Power and Persuasion to Your Writing Telephone Conference with Meryl Runion and Barbara McNichol

This Week in the World: A Communication Tale of Toilet Training Trauma
Power Phrase of the Week: Please Provide Me With Some Context
Poison Phrase of the Week: You Need a Meeting

Ask Meryl: The Case of the Barking Dog
Success Story: Putting an End to Sarcasm

June 13, 2007 - Issue 274

Coming to a Telephone Near You: How to Add Power and Persuasion to Your Writing Telephone Conference with Meryl Runion and Barbara McNichol
New Articles: One New Article Posted This Week

This Week in the World: Customer Service Confrontation
Power Phrase of the Week: Because I Care
Poison Phrase of the Week: Your Busy Season is Not My Problem

Ask Meryl: The Case of the Stopped Check
Success Story: Not a Yes Man

June 7, 2007 - Issue 273

Coming to a Telephone Near You: How to Add Power and Persuasion to Your Writing Telephone Conference with Meryl Runion and Barbara McNichol
New Articles: Three New Articles Posted This Week

This Week in the World: A Thoughtful Gesture
Power Phrase of the Week: I Am Not Frightened by Anger
Poison Phrase of the Week: Your Neglect

Ask Meryl: What to Say When the Boss Wants You to Tattle.
Success Story: Talking to Teens

May 31, 2007 - Issue 272

Coming to a Telephone Near You: How to Talk to Your Doctor Telephone Conference
New Articles: One New Articles Posted This Week

This Week in the World: A Conversation About Conversations
Power Phrase of the Week: Phrases for a Conversation About Conversations
Poison Phrase of the Week: I Guess That's Okay

Ask Meryl: Recycled Stickers
Success Story: No Story this Week

May 24, 2007 - Issue 271
New Articles: Six New Articles Posted This Week

This Week in the World: It's a Gender Thing
Power Phrase of the Week: Recycled Packaging
Poison Phrase of the Week: It's Easy

Ask Meryl: Life
Success Story: No Story this Week

May 17, 2007 - Issue 270
New Articles: Two New Articles Posted This Week

This Week in the World: Speaking Strong Results in Criminal Exoneration
Power Phrase of the Week: I Want to Hear From You
Poison Phrase of the Week: Not-So-Subtle Walls

Ask Meryl: How to Claim Credit
Success Story: Standing Up to the Office Bully

May 10 , 2007 - Issue 269
This Week in the World: Realistic Emails Home from Iraq
Power Phrase of the Week: I'm Planning to Decide After I've Gotten the Facts, Not Before
Poison Phrase of the Week: Don't Give Her the Option of Not Doing the Chemo. I Want Her To Make Up Her Own Mind

Ask Meryl: No Question This Week
Success Story: An Intervention

May 3 , 2007 - Issue 268
Cool Tools Telephone Seminar Update
New Articles: Six New Articles Posted This Week / Three New Document Tools

This Week in the World: Say No to "No."
Power Phrase of the Week: I've Examined the Specs and...
Poison Phrase of the Week: No One Tells Me Anything

Ask Meryl: Bathroom Rights
Success Story: The Perfume Issue

April 26, 2007 - Issue 267
Coming to a Telephone Near You - Cool Tools Telephone Seminar

This Week in the World: New Articles / Jessica Lynch
Power Phrase of the Week: Do You Really Think This Qualifies as Massive Anxiety?
Poison Phrase of the Week: I'll Let You Take Care of This

Ask Meryl: Dance Class
Success Story: I Spoke, They Listened

April 19, 2007 - Issue 266

This Week in the World: Pulitzer / New Articles
Power Phrase of the Week: I Can Solve a Rubik's Cube in Under Three Minutes
Poison Phrase of the Week: I Don't Have Enough

Ask Meryl: No Credit
Success Story: No Story This Week

April 12, 2007 - Issue 265

This Week in the World: Imus: the Poster Boy of Media Slurs / New Articles
Power Phrase of the Week: This Could Be My Daughter
Poison Phrase of the Week: Force

Ask Meryl: Indirect Negativity
Success Story: Offensive Air Spray

April 5, 2007 - Issue 264

This Week in the World: Quote Yourself / Conversational vs. Formal / Predatory Sales Rep
Power Phrase of the Week: Thanks For Not Downloading That
Poison Phrase of the Week: If I Could...Would You Be Mad at Me?

Ask Meryl: Set-Up to Fail
Success Story: No Story This Week

March 29, 2007 - Issue 263

This Week in the World: Emotional Market Value / Edwards Announcement
Power Phrase of the Week: When Words Don't Match the Tone
Poison Phrase of the Week: Don't...

Ask Meryl: If That Means Anything to You
Success Story: No Story This Week

March 22, 2007 - Issue 262

This Week in the World: The Invitation of a Fake Smile
Power Phrase of the Week: What Else Could it Be?
Poison Phrase of the Week: Weren't you listening?

Ask Meryl: When Other People Are Angry
Success Story: A Peaceful Trip Home

March 15, 2007 - Issue 261

It's crazy - $100 to post an honest review?
This Week in the World: Go for the Sizzle but Avoid the Smoke
Power Phrase of the Week: This Is Perfect
Poison Phrase of the Week: That Was Greeting, Not a Question

Bonus Poison Phrase: We

Ask Meryl: Obviously You Don't Want to Talk to Me
Success Story: I will not respond until you treat me with respect.

March 8, 2007 - Issue 260
This Week in the World: Nega-Bugs, Nega-Bites and Justi-Flies, More "Secret Influence"
Power Phrase of the Week: I Did Some Homework Before Contacting You
Poison Phrase of the Week: Are You Going to Be This Crazy...?
Ask Meryl: Too Much Visual Information
Success Story: Role-Play

March 1, 2007 - Issue 259

Welcome to My Several Hundred New Subscribers
This Week in the World: "The Secret" Influence, Practice Makes Permanent, Amazon Outlook Is Good
Power Phrase of the Week: I Am the Voice of Your Customer
Poison Phrase of the Week: A Major Non-Conformance
Ask Meryl: Undercover for the Boss?
Success Story: Taking Turns Talking

February 22, 2007 - Issue 258
This Week in the World: Inattention Deficit, Convenient Truth, Silenced by Fear of Political Incorrectness, Pick Up the Phone, Stay on Topic
Power Phrase of the Week: Because We Are a Great Democracy People Have Their Views and They're Going to Express Them
Poison Phrase of the Week: No
Ask Meryl: A Caustic Coworker
Success Story: Owning Her Own Life After Incest

February 15, 2007 - Issue 257
This Week in the World: Blog Comments, Criminal Blogging, Still Not Ready to Make Nice, Flight Alarm
Power Phrase of the Week: Please Let Me Tell You What I’m Afraid Of
Poison Phrase of the Week: This feature will (probably) be back next week.
Ask Meryl: Weight Comments
Success Story: This feature will (probably) be back next week.

February 8, 2007 - Issue 256
Thousands of Dollars of Books and Cassettes Going for a Fraction of Their Value
This Week in the World: How to Say It Amazon Review Contest Offers Possible 10:1 ROI (Return on Investment)
Power Phrase of the Week: Please Let Me Tell You What I’m Afraid Of
Poison Phrase of the Week: Settle Down
Ask Meryl: Weight Comments
Success Story: Check with Me First

February 1, 2007 - Issue 255

My Personal Success Library for Sale on EBay / SpeakStrong Solutions
This Week in the World: Unsolicited Advice
Power Phrase of the Week: I Am Always Learning Something
Poison Phrase of the Week: You're Broke, Aren't You?
Ask Meryl: Handling Interruptions
Success Story:I Am Not My Hair Color

January 25, 2007 - Issue 254

Format Feedback
This Week in the World: Medical Apartheid
Power Phrase of the Week: We're Sounding Adversarial
Poison Phrase of the Week: We Forgot to Tell You...
Ask Meryl: Email Abuse
Success Story: No Story This Week

January 18, 2007 - Issue 253

The Format Won’t Change…Much
This Week in the World: When the Truth is Inconvenient
Power Phrase of the Week: You Are Not Entirely Without Blame
Poison Phrase of the Week: We Thought It Was None of Our Business
Ask Meryl: No Question This Week
Success Story: A Bit More Applause, Please

January 11, 2007 - Issue 252

What do you think?
This Week in the World: A Congregation With No Complaints
Power Phrase of the Week: The Result of the Choices You Make
Poison Phrase of the Week: I Thought You Were the Desk Clerk
Ask Meryl: An End to Hugs
Success Story: Asking for Unwaivering Faith

January 4, 2007 - Issue 251

Speak as if every word matters. It does.
This Week in the World: A Question Fast
Power Phrase of the Week: That Was Good Thinking
Poison Phrase of the Week: If It Was You, Don't Do That
Ask Meryl: A Raise in Limbo
Success Story: No story this week