The speaker discusses the importance of asking questions while being mindful of people's defensiveness and how it can provide valuable information in order to persuade others to change their behavior.
The double-bind of self promotion for women is that they are seen as less likeable but not necessarily more competent. Women who are assertive are also seen as less likeable because they violate gender stereotypes that depict women as communal and caring.
Lack of psychological safety, belief that vulnerability requires trust, and personal goals that supersede group goals are common barriers to people being able to trust each other and work together.