Meet Chloe. She’s seated in a Monday morning strategy meeting, fingers laced tightly in her lap, nodding as the VP speaks. Her idea, an inventory strategy that could cut costs by 18%, burns on the tip of her tongue. “Say it,’’ her mind urges. ‘’But don’t. You’ll sound like you’re challenging him. What if you’re wrong?’’
This isn’t the first time Chloe has held back. As Director of Supply Management for a leading electronics manufacturer, she’s sharp, organized, and dependable. But when it matters most, her voice disappears. She’s seen as reliable support, not a strategic thinker. She wonders, ‘’why do I shrink when it matters most?’’
In this episode, Jay is joined by Stacey Hanke, Hall of Fame speaker, bestselling author, and communications expert who has coached Fortune 500 executives and business leaders to speak with influence and build trust. Stacey’s Monday to Monday philosophy is about showing up with consistent presence and credibility in every interaction, not just when it’s convenient.
Together, they unpack the hidden gap between how we feel when we communicate and how others actually perceive us. Stacey shares her top skills for mastering influence: increasing awareness, practicing daily consistency, and seeking real feedback instead of vague “good job” praise. She explains why recording yourself is the ultimate truth-teller and why every conversation, from the boardroom to the dinner table, is a chance to practice influence.
If you’ve ever wondered how to project confidence, inspire trust, and get your ideas heard in any setting, this episode will give you the tools to show up with influence Monday to Monday.
Notable Quotes
“Your level of communication determines where you are in your career.” — Stacey Hanke
“Don’t let feeling be your guide. Feeling good doesn’t always mean you sound good.” — Stacey Hanke
“True influence is what people say about you when you leave the room.” — Jay Abbasi
About Our Guest
Stacey Hanke is the author of Influence Redefined: Be the Leader You Were Meant to Be, Monday to Monday. A Hall of Fame keynote speaker and communication strategist, Stacey has worked with top executives and teams across industries to help them communicate with clarity, consistency, and impact. Her practical tools help leaders build trust and credibility every day, not just during high-stakes moments.
Resources and Links
Stacey Hanke
Influence Redefined (Book) – https://staceyhankeinc.com/product/influence-redefined/
Website – https://staceyhankeinc.com/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceyhanke/
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/staceyhanke
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/StaceyHankeInc
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/staceyhankeinc/
X – https://x.com/staceyhankeinc
Jay Abbasi
Website – https://jayabbasi.me/
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayabbasi/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/jayabbasi_/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/thejayabbasi/
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@jayabbasipodcast
Get Featured on “Unstuck”
Want to have your story featured on “Unstuck”? Submit your story through the link below, and Jay may choose to highlight your story on a future episode and offer you personalized advice on how to overcome any challenge.
Join Us Next Time
On Friday, Jay will reveal seven powerful communication hacks he’s discovered through years of studying, testing, and refining his own speaking style. These are the practical strategies he uses on stage, in coaching sessions, and in everyday conversations to connect with audiences and build trust.
If you want to communicate with confidence and authority in any situation, don’t miss this actionable episode.
Until then, stay consistent, stay authentic, and keep influencing Monday to Monday.
