Rotman Insights Hub | University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management
Groundbreaking ideas and research for engaged leaders
Rotman Insights Hub | University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management
Rotman Insights Hub | University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management Groundbreaking ideas and research for engaged leaders
Rotman Insights Hub | University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management

The power of language: What are your words actually saying?

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There’s hidden meaning in what you say — and how you say it — and it can influence everything from whether your request is ignored to how persuasive or sincere you seem. The latest episode of the Executive Summary dives in.

Sam Maglio

Ever wonder why sometimes, no matter how clear you are, your message falls flat?

According to University of Toronto professor Sam Maglio, it might come down to something as small as a single word choice. In this episode of Executive Summary, Maglio unpacks the hidden psychology of everyday communication. From the surprising impact of capitalization and verb tense to the trade-offs between active and passive voice, he explores how subtle shifts in wording can influence how sincere we seem, how persuasive our ideas are, and even whether someone responds to us at all. 

In a world of clickbait, information bubbles, and repeated messages that start to feel true, understanding the mechanics of language can help us spot when we’re being nudged, persuaded — or manipulated.

Give it a listen above, catch up on the entire season below, or check it out on your favourite podcast platform (Apple, Spotify or YouTube). And don’t forget to subscribe

Prefer to read than listen in? Check out the transcript on Simplecast. 

Did you know we have two podcast series? Rotman Visiting Experts catches up with authors from our acclaimed speaker series and is a must-listen for the leader looking for lifelong learning. Check it out on Spotify, Apple, Amazon or YouTube! 

Sam Maglio is a professor of marketing and psychology at the University of Toronto Scarborough, with a cross-appointment to the Rotman School of Management. 
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