The Way of The Wolf

265: How I Went From Hardcore Introvert to Confident Public Speaker

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People often ask how someone who was once a hardcore introvert, awkward, uncomfortable, and struggling to communicate, ends up delivering keynotes on stages around the country.

In this episode, Sean breaks down the real journey from introversion to confident public speaking, and why communication became the single most important skill he ever developed.

This is not about becoming louder or pretending to be someone you’re not. It’s about learning how to communicate clearly, connect authentically, and build confidence through competence and repetition.

 

Podcast Show Notes – Episode 265 | 01.20.2025

Episode Title: How I Went From Hardcore Introvert to Confident Public Speaker  

 

Key Moments

00:00 – From introvert to keynote speaker

00:44 – Early struggles with communication and confidence
01:34 – First public speaking experience and harsh self-awareness
02:08 – Watching yourself on camera (the wake-up call)
02:42 – Choosing growth over frustration
03:06 – Why expertise comes before confidence
03:49 – Becoming an expert in your domain
04:50 – Navigating networking as an introvert
05:19 – The power of asking questions
06:06 – Getting invited onto panels and stages
06:41 – Why everyone sucks at first (and that’s normal)
07:45 – Building a reputation through repetition
08:01 – Learning stage presence and delivery skills
09:00 – Eye contact, movement, voice modulation
09:52 – Why Toastmasters accelerates growth
10:18 – Human skills vs. AI-generated personas
10:50 – Why people crave real connection
11:26 – Communication creates opportunity and freedom

 

Key Takeaways

  1. Confidence comes from competence, not personality.

    2. Master your craft first, confidence follows.

    1. Public speaking is a skill, not a trait.

      2. Anyone can learn it with reps, feedback, and intention.

      1. Strong communication creates freedom.

        2. The ability to communicate clearly opens doors, builds influence, and gives you choice.

         

        Host: Sean Barnes

        Website:

        https://www.wolfexecutives.com  

        https://www.seanbarnes.com

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        Email: [email protected]

        Audible:

        https://www.audible.com/pd/The-Way-of-the-Wolf-Podcast/B08JJNXJ6C

        Spotify:

        https://open.spotify.com/show/2BTGdO25Vop3GTpGCY8Y8E?si=ea91c1ef6dd14f15

         

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        The Way of The WolfBy Sean Barnes