In Dr. Joe Sanders’ Words: Communication
Where would we be without COMMUNICATION? More importantly, where would we be without effective communication?
Too often, we think of language as simply a way to describe the world around us—through speaking and writing. This informative view has value: it helps us share facts and make sense of what we observe. But if we stop there, we miss the true power of communication, the opportunity to give voice to the soul and provide a window into the heart of those we care about.
As leaders, we are not just here to say, “what is.” We are called to create what could be. And for that, we need a deeper understanding of language and communication.
Listening is often overlooked, yet it is where transformation begins. We tend to believe we are blank slates when we listen—but in truth, we bring our past experiences, assumptions, and biases into every conversation. As my friend, Kari Zeller, taught me, we are automatically, already, always listening.
Transformative listening means setting aside those filters so we can truly hear others. It is about tuning in to the concerns and commitments of those around us. When people feel heard and understood, trust grows. Connection deepens. Collaboration becomes possible.
People can tell when their voices are heard—and just as clearly when they are not. This is especially true for the students served by Colorado UpLift. The presence—or absence—of genuine care directly affects trust, morale, and the relationships we are working hard to build through mentorship. One student put it best: “I was used to adults talking at me, not with me. But my mentor listened without judging. That’s when I started to believe things could be different.” Every day, our dedicated staff are transforming the lives of students. Imagine this transformation happening for the thousands of young people we serve each year.
Theodore Roosevelt famously said, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” And that sense of care starts with how we listen. To truly connect, we must move beyond passive hearing and embrace a more intentional approach—one that creates space for others by setting aside our automatic, already, always listening. This is how we listen generously. We must also listen genuinely, opening ourselves to fully understand not just what others are saying, but what they truly mean. And finally, we listen generatively when we use our listening to create new opportunities, uncover possibilities, and build shared commitment to what is possible. When we listen this way, we do more than just hear—we demonstrate care, foster trust, and create the conditions for meaningful collaboration and lasting impact.
When we do speak, it must be with authenticity, integrity, and a sense of possibility. To speak authentically means to speak from alignment—with our values, our vision, and the leadership we aspire to. To speak with integrity is to make clear, honest commitments—and to keep our word. And to speak with possibility means to declare a future worth moving toward, not just to report the present.
These are not lofty ideals. They are everyday practices. Whether you are leading a team, a family, a classroom, or a neighborhood, your communication—both listening and speaking—has the power to shape the world around you.
Effective communication—through intentional listening and powerful speaking—is how we lead, connect, and build together. Because where would we be without communication? Not where we could be. Let’s move forward—together—with ears open, voices ready, and hearts engaged.
Warm regards,
Joe
