The piece highlights a disconnect between communication skills and intelligence. The author observes that some of the brightest individuals struggle with articulating their thoughts clearly. They may stutter, ramble, or take time to process questions. Despite these communication hurdles, the author argues that their intelligence remains intact. The piece critiques conventional wisdom that equates smooth talking with competence, suggesting that often, the best communicators may not have much of substance to offer. The author reflects on their own biases, admitting that they once judged people’s intelligence based on their ability to respond quickly and eloquently. They learned that many intelligent individuals need time to think through their responses, particularly when faced with unfamiliar questions. This "external processing" is essential for them to articulate their thoughts. The author points out how politicians often avoid this behavior, favoring a confident facade over genuine discourse. By changing their approach to conversations, the author now values the process of thinking aloud. They prioritize creating a comfortable environment for others, allowing for pauses and moments of reflection. This shift in perspective has helped them recognize that effective communication can take many forms and that biases related to quick responses can obscure valuable insights.