Former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki knows it’s the followup questions that can be the most difficult to handle. When she was asked “Why do wars start?” by one of her children, she carefully explained and then got a follow up: “Have you ever seen a unicorn?”

Not many White House press secretaries capture the nation’s interest the way Jen Psaki did. Refreshingly candid and clear, Psaki quickly became known for her ability to break through the noise and successfully deliver her message. Since leaving the White House, Psaki’s star has continued to rise. She launched a highly rated show on MSNBC and was so successful that in just six months she was given an additional primetime Monday slot, ahead of Rachel Maddow.

Psaki comes to Commonwealth Club World Affairs to discuss the issues raised in her new book Say More. In it, Psaki explains her straightforward approach to communication, walking people through difficult conversations as well as moments where humor saves the day—whether it is with preschoolers, partners or presidents. She addresses the best ways to give and receive feedback, how to connect with your audience, how to listen actively, and much more.

She’ll be in conversation with another veteran of the highstakes world of White House communications, President Obama’s White House Communications Director Dan Pfeiffer.

Don’t miss this chance to hear the lessons learned behind the most famous podium in the world.

This program is part of our Good Lit series, underwritten by the Bernard Osher Foundation.

Photo by Patrick Randak/MSNBC.

May 17, 2024

Speakers


Jen Psaki
Former White House Press Secretary; Host, MSNBC’s "Inside with Jen Psaki"; Author, Say More: Lessons from Work, the White House, and the World; X @jrpsaki

In Conversation with Dan Pfeiffer
Former Senior Advisor to President Barack Obama; Cohost, "Pod Save America"; X @danpfeiffer

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