Send us a text

Have you ever wondered how seasoned performers capture and hold the attention of even the most distracted or reluctant audiences? On today’s episode of Speaking With Confidence, we answer that question and dig deep into what it really takes to build confidence, adapt on the fly, and show up authentically in every speaking situation—whether it’s a children’s birthday party, a raucous holiday park, or a high-stakes corporate keynote.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and recovering college professor turned communication coach, and I’m thrilled to share this episode with you because it offers a fresh perspective on stage presence, storytelling, and handling those inevitable moments when things don’t go as planned.

Joining me today is Tom Elliott, corporate event host, comedy magician, and storytelling coach, who brings a remarkable blend of entertainment expertise to the world of professional communication. Tom has performed across the UK for audiences that often weren’t there to see him, which has made him a master at winning over even the toughest crowds. His journey from performing magic and ventriloquism at children’s parties, to holiday parks and eventually the corporate world, is not only fascinating but full of practical lessons for anyone looking to build their influence through communication.

You’ll also hear us dig into:

• Tom’s origins in magic, ventriloquism, and the lessons learned from children’s parties and holiday park gigs
• Why corporate and holiday park audiences are worlds apart—and how to adjust your approach for each
• How to manage failing moments on stage and use them to grow (including both of our worst stories)
• The power of practicing in public, trying new material, and being willing to fail to get better
• What it really takes to grab attention in the first 30 seconds of any talk, meeting, or show
• How to dial up your natural personality traits by 10% for stage presence and audience connection
• The difference between internalizing your core message versus memorizing a rigid script, and how this helps you adapt with confidence
• Why personal stories work, even for people who are nervous to use them
• Building confidence through repeated action and practical strategies for anyone starting out (including organizing your own gigs!)

Tom also shares a free resource for anyone wanting to create a more engaging keynote, along with actionable tips you can put into practice right away.

Whether you’re a business leader, aspiring speaker, or someone who just wants to feel more at ease communicating when it counts, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and the reassurance that failing is not the end—it's part of the path to becoming a powerful, confident communicator.

Thanks for joining us on Speaking With Confidence. Remember, your voice has the power to change the world!

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
Speaking With Confidence
Formula for Public Speaking
Facebook