Mark Newman
September 3, 2026
The power of modern communication lies in a simple paradox: technology has made it effortless to transmit information, but harder than ever to truly connect. In a world saturated with inbox noise, quick texts, and constant digital notifications, the ability to communicate with intention, clarity, and authentic presence is no longer just a soft skill. It is a critical competitive advantage.
During the Communicating for Connection workshop held at The CATALYST, hosted in partnership with the Gilbert Chamber of Commerce and presented by residential real estate broker Mark Newman, participants explored how to break free from default communication habits to build deeper business influence and stronger personal relationships.
Participants began by reflecting on their communication over the past week, evaluating both volume and depth. The group explored how different channels impact overall relationship quality, moving from transaction-focused digital messages to high-impact face-to-face interactions.
Public speaking was highlighted as a critical, and often intimidating silo of daily communication. Workshop attendees shared personal experiences with speech anxiety, recognizing that fear frequently blocks meaningful connection.
Drawing from Dr. Russ Harris’s book The Happiness Trap, the group discussed how the brain naturally scans for threats and triggers anxiety as a protective measure. Rather than trying to eliminate fear, participants were encouraged to acknowledge it, disassociate from the threat response, and regain mental clarity. Further discussion centered on learning through active observation, analyzing both effective and overly scripted speakers while recognizing that authentic connection requires leaving room for genuine vulnerability.
A key segment of the workshop focused on the "twin enemies of intentionality": strong emotions and constant distractions. Attendees shared how easily micro-distractions, such as checking a phone, signal a lack of respect and derail connection. The room explored strategies for developing real-time self-awareness, learning to catch themselves when presence slips and consciously resetting their focus back to the person in front of them.
To pull these concepts together, Mark Newman walked attendees through a 6-step framework designed to transform daily exchanges into genuine leadership. Participants left the session with a renewed perspective on their daily interactions, empowered to step back from the noise and approach every conversation with presence and purpose.
More on the CATALYST
The CATALYST is a Business Resource Center that is a strategic partnership between the Gilbert office of Economic Development and the Gilbert Chamber Foundation. Together, we help direct resources, services, and offer a year-round calendar of events and programming tailored to the Gilbert entrepreneur and small business community. The CATALYST is the newest collaboration aimed at stimulating economic wellness and strengthening business connections in Gilbert. Learn more at catalystgilbert.com