E114 – Tuning Up Your Body Language featuring Jane Hanson

How are we doing? Send us a message and let us know what content had impact, and what content may have missed the mark, and why.Your team is constantly reading you—analyzing every movement, stance, and gesture you make as a leader. Even when you're silent, your body is having a conversation with everyone around you. What exactly is it saying?Nine-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Jane Hanson pulls back the curtain on leadership's most under-appreciated tool: body language. With insights developed through decades of television broadcasting and leadership coaching, Hanson reveals the powerful truth that humans communicated through body language for millions of years before spoken words existed—and this primal language remains our most trusted form of communication today. Throughout the conversation, Hanson shares practical wisdom for emerging leaders navigating the complex world of nonverbal communication. She explains why crossing your arms might undermine your credibility regardless of your intentions, how claiming your physical space earns respect in new environments, and why the pause may be your most powerful (and underutilized) leadership tool. When your words and body language don't align, people instinctively trust what they see over what they hear.Perhaps most compelling is Hanson's perspective on vulnerability and compassion in leadership. Rather than viewing these qualities as weaknesses, she demonstrates how authentic physical presence—leading with an open posture and genuine engagement—signals both kindness and strength. "I don't think you can be compassionate and not be strong," Hanson notes, challenging traditional notions of authoritative leadership.What is your body language revealing about your leadership style right now? Listen, reflect, and transform your silent communication to lead with greater authenticity and impact.Jane’s Episode Links:1. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janehansonofficial/2. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janehansontv/3. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JaneHansonTV4. Website: https://www.janehanson.com/Jane’s Recommended Book/Movie/Podcast List:Books: I love to read thrillers simply because they pique my interest. Books that help me escape are my favorite. Tom Clancy and Daniel Silva are two of my favorites. Growing up, I wanted to be a CIA Agent.Movies: Because of my business, I love The Kings Speech and the stuttering.Podcast: SmartlessSupport the showTrench Leadership: A Podcast From the Front is humbled to have been named #5 in the Top 20 for Best Canadian Leadership-themed podcasts for 2025.Connect to Trench Leadership:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYnaqOp1UvqTJhATzcizowATrench Leadership Website: www.trenchleadership.caLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trench-leadership-a-podcast-from-the-front/?viewAsMember=trueAre you looking for a podcast editor/producer? Do you enjoy the quality of the show? The editor of Trench Leadership, Jennifer Lee, is taking new clients. Reach out at https://www.itsalegitbusiness.com.Reviews are the best way for the show to know what is working, what needs improvement, and what to talk about in the future. If you have a topic that you're passionate to hear more about, feel free to reach out at [email protected] to connect and share your ideas.