LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Lewis Eisen

Speaking Respectfully – The Power of Polite Policy with Lewis Eisen

INTRODUCTION

In this episode of How to Live A Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka speaks with Lewis Eisen, a global authority on respectful communication in policymaking and beyond. A former lawyer and linguist, Lewis now teaches how to replace confrontational language with cooperative, inclusive dialogue—especially in written rules and signage. His mission? Making the world a kinder, more respectful place.

MEET LEWIS EISEN

With a background in law, linguistics, and business consulting, Lewis noticed a troubling pattern in policy language—aggressive, bossy, and often alienating. From government to corporate offices, outdated "command and control" structures continue to dominate. Lewis began helping organizations shift toward a more respectful, inclusive tone in policy writing.

WHY POLICIES SOUND RUDE

Lewis explains that many people write rules the way they were taught to speak by parents or teachers—authoritative and directive. But while strictness is necessary, rudeness isn’t. Policies can enforce standards without demeaning language. Instead of “Employees must…” or “This behavior will not be tolerated,” respectful phrasing invites collaboration and trust.

THE IMPACT OF TONE

Dr. Lycka and Lewis discuss how the language we use shapes workplace culture and client relationships. Aggressive rules can destroy trust and cause unnecessary conflict. Lewis emphasizes the importance of giving people the benefit of the doubt, focusing on the 98% who want to do the right thing.

REAL-WORLD EXAMPLES

Lewis shares a sign from a medical clinic as a poor example: “Rude behavior will not be tolerated.” While the intent is understandable, the tone is off-putting. A better alternative? “We treat each other with respect and appreciate if you do the same.” Dr. Lycka adds a story of how context—like a mother searching for her child—can make a seemingly “broken rule” deeply human.

COMPASSION IN COMMUNICATION

From latecomers at theaters to signage in waiting rooms, both Lewis and Dr. Lycka agree that compassion and discretion go a long way. Strict rules don’t need to sacrifice kindness. Hospitality, trust-building, and even small gestures—like offering a cappuccino—create a better experience.

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Lewis urges listeners to ask: “How does this sound to someone else?” Policies should feel inclusive, not punitive. Dr. Lycka closes by reminding us that small acts of kindness—like buying coffee for a stranger—create ripples of goodwill.

LEARN MORE

Visit www.lewiseisen.com to connect with Lewis or check out his book Rules: Maximizing Engagement. You can also find him on LinkedIn. And don’t miss his upcoming book Why Are You Yelling at Me?

Stay tuned to www.drallenlycka.com for updates, a free Life with Dr. L hat, and weekly golden pearls of wisdom.

BIO:

Lewis Eisen is a leading global authority on the use of respectful language in policy drafting. In the past, he has worked as a practicing lawyer, a business consultant, an Information Management specialist and a government policy writer. With degrees in both Law and Linguistics, he is well-positioned to understand the power of words and how to make them work for you. Today, he runs workshops teaching people how to shift their rule-making culture from confrontational to cooperative, and his approach has been adopted at organizations around the world.

Social Media:

Web site: https://lewiseisen.com 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewiseisen/ 

Instagram: @lewiseisen