The Self-Confidence Lab

How does learning to figure things out as a child shape a lifetime of confidence?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. James E. West, co-inventor of the electret microphone and pioneering acoustician, to explore confidence, curiosity, and the power of self-belief. Now in his 90s, Dr. West continues to work with remarkable clarity and focus, sharing insights from a lifetime of innovation and mentorship. Growing up in the segregated South with a mother who was one of the “hidden figures” at NASA, he experienced systemic inequality firsthand, shaping his lifelong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and mentoring in STEM. That early self-reliance has guided him throughout his career and continues to do so today.

Across decades of innovation—from Bell Labs to Johns Hopkins University—Dr. West shares lessons on learning from mistakes, mentoring others, and taking meaningful action. He shows that confidence isn’t about proving people wrong, but trusting your ability to figure things out, staying curious, and taking responsibility for your path, even in the face of unfairness.

Key Takeaways

· Confidence as self-efficacy: Trust your ability to learn, adapt, and solve problems through effort, curiosity, and persistence.

· Curiosity fuels innovation: Asking questions and exploring ideas is essential for growth in science, technology, and life.

· Learning from mistakes: Mistakes are signals, not failures; progress comes from trial, error, and reflection.

· Mentorship matters: Being a mentor means taking responsibility seriously—listening, being patient, and investing time to help others grow.

· Internal confidence: Real confidence is holding onto your belief in yourself, even when external validation is impossible.

· Diversity and inclusion in STEM: Dr. West advocates for creating opportunities and supporting underrepresented communities.

· Action matters: Engage with issues that impact your life, family, or community. Small steps can reinforce self-confidence.

About Dr. James E. West

Dr. West is an American inventor and acoustician, celebrated for co-inventing the electret microphone with Gerhard Sessler. With more than 250 U.S. and foreign patents, hundreds of publications, and decades of groundbreaking research, he has dedicated his life to innovation, mentorship, and advocacy for diversity in STEM. He was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame (1999), awarded the National Medal of Technology and Innovation by President George W. Bush (2006) and the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Electrical Engineering (2010).

Mentioned

Electret Microphone – nist.gov/si-research-electret-microphone

National Inventors Hall of Fame – invent.org/inductees

National Medal of Technology and Innovation – uspto.gov

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How can embracing your peculiarities unlock true confidence strength?

In this episode, I sit down with Roland Mouret, celebrated fashion designer, to explore confidence from multiple perspectives: the power of accepting your unique traits, learning from pivotal moments, and seeing the impact of your work in helping others recognize their own strength. We dive into how self-awareness, reflection, and embracing both strengths and weaknesses shape steady confidence, whether in art, design, or life. Roland shares heartfelt stories from childhood through career-defining moments, showing how confidence isn’t about perfection, but about authenticity, resilience, and perspective.

Key Takeaways

· How recognising and embracing your peculiarities (the traits that make you unique) can be a source of strength rather than limitation.

· How early life experiences shaped his confidence, and the power of reclaiming labels or perceived weaknesses as part of your identity.

· Navigating who you are in relation to the group and showing up authentically.

· The role of creative work as a form of self-expression and a way to empower others, with confidence stemming from impact rather than recognition.

· How defining personal values and staying true to them guides decision-making and career choices. The balance of modesty and ego as tools to navigate success with integrity.

· How perspective shifts (seeing yourself through someone else’s loving eyes or embracing the difference between online appearance and real life) can boost self-assurance.

About Roland

Roland Mouret is a French fashion designer renowned for his innovative and empowering designs, most famously the Galaxy dress, which cemented his place in fashion history. Through his career, Roland has focused on the transformative power of clothing to give people confidence and self-expression. His work spans global recognition, magazine covers, and cultural impact, all while remaining committed to authenticity, personal growth, and the values that define him as a designer and individual.

Resources Mentioned

· Roland Mouret — follow on Instagram (@rolandmouret), and website (www.rolandmouret.com).

· Roland’s Galaxy Dress — a defining moment in fashion history and an example of creativity enhancing confidence.

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How can you quiet the mental chatter to stay true to yourself and focus on what truly matters?

In this episode, I sit down with Luisa Barile, CEO of ManyPets, to explore confidence from multiple perspectives: the power of knowing your North Star, learning from pivotal moments, and embracing the challenges that make us stronger. We dig into how preparation, faith, and community shape steady confidence, especially when balancing the demands of leadership and motherhood. Whether you're navigating career moves, public speaking, or managing competing priorities, this conversation blends heartfelt stories with actionable advice.

Key Takeaways

• How defining your own “North Star” helps you say no and focus on what truly matters.
• The impact of early life experiences on confidence and triggers to watch for.
• The importance of preparation to free up mental energy and perform at your best.
• Why some unorthodox career moves actually build resilience and growth.
• How humility and faith contribute to a grounded, authentic confidence.
• Practical steps to build confidence gradually by leveraging your strengths.
• Balancing the demands of being a CEO and a mother without losing yourself.
• The power of community, feedback, and self-reflection to keep growing.

About Luisa

Luisa Barile is CEO of ManyPets, a company transforming pet insurance through technology and customer focus. Luisa is an actuary by training, she spent 10 years at McKinsey as a management consultant and has held various roles in the insurance industry including operations manager at Beazley, COO and then CEO of the insurance outsource provider Charles Taylor Insurance Services and NED of insurance tech company Fadata. Luisa joined ManyPets in 2018. Luisa is also a Co-Chair of the industry association Insurtech UK.

Resources Mentioned

• Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt — insights on resilience and growth through adversity.
• Professor Rao’s exercise on observing and challenging mental chatter, from Are You Ready to Succeed?
• Seneca’s quote on daring and difficulty: “It’s not because things are difficult that you do not dare. It’s because you do not dare that they are difficult.”
• Many Pets — follow on Instagram (@manypets_uk), LinkedIn (ManyPets) and website (www.manypets.com) for insights and updates.

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What can children teach us about confidence that even the most successful adults often forget?

Many wise people throughout history have recognised the deep insight and perspective of children and young people and this episode is a beautiful reminder of just how true that is. 

In this conversation, I sit down with my six nieces and nephews (aged between 9 and 18, and living in both Ireland and the US) to talk about confidence. We explore the challenges facing their peers today, from public speaking nerves to academic self-doubt and body image to social anxiety, and they share what helps them and what doesn’t. They also offer thoughtful, generous advice for parents and adults who want to support young people as they grow in confidence.

This is a warm, funny, and moving conversation full of honesty and wisdom. We talk about how confidence is shaped by the people around us, the stories we tell ourselves, and the small actions that help us feel braver, stronger, and more ourselves.

Key takeaways:

• Confidence often starts with comfort and grows with practice.
• Public speaking is a huge one and most of us feel the fear!
• Childhood labels (even the jokey ones) can linger long after they’re said.
• Talking to someone you trust can make a big difference.
• Being around people who let you be your full self helps confidence grow.
• Arguing with friends doesn’t mean the friendship is over. Real confidence includes repair.
• Sometimes, the best way to feel confident is to do something small you know you’re good at — first.
• Parents can help most by listening without fixing, showing trust, and encouraging effort over outcomes.

About the guests:

This episode features my nieces (Keelin and Jessie) and nephews (Tom, Ben, Charlie and Dylan) a brilliant, thoughtful, funny, and wise bunch, ranging in age from 9 to 18. Some live in Ireland, some in the US, and all of them brought honesty, insight, and humour to this episode. I’m so grateful to each of them for sharing so openly.

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What if confidence wasn’t a prerequisite for doing bold, creative things? 

In this episode, I speak to fine jewelry designer and founder of Marla Aaron Jewelry, Marla Aaron, about navigating self-doubt, dealing with online criticism, and taking action even when confidence is nowhere to be found. Marla openly admits she doesn’t feel confident but she creates anyway. This conversation is a powerful reminder that we don’t need to believe in ourselves to begin. We just need to start. 

Marla is honest, funny, and refreshingly practical. If you’ve ever doubted your creative instincts, or wondered whether your idea is too weird to work this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

·       You don’t need confidence to act — action can come first.

·       Perfection isn’t required (except in the final product).

·       Determination often matters more than confidence. Don’t give up on a good idea just because it gets hard.

·       Saying no can be an act of clarity and power.

·       You don’t have to quit your job to be creative — creativity lives in the everyday.

·       Physical movement (especially heavy lifting) can build strength, resilience, and self-trust.

·       Raising confident kids is a shared effort — between parents, schools, and the environments we create.

About Marla

Marla Aaron launched her eponymous jewelry brand in 2012, inspired by the raw beauty of hardware and a deep love of storytelling through objects. Best known for transforming the humble carabiner into fine jewelry (and for placing her pieces in vending machines, including at the Brooklyn Museum) Marla brings a rebellious, authentic spirit to everything she creates. Her unapologetic approach to business is as bold as her designs, earning features in Vogue, The New York Times, and more.

She lives by the words: “Jewelry’s only job is to bring joy to as many people as possible.” What began with a single lock has grown into a universe of mechanism-inspired, hard-working pieces including rings that open, convertible earrings and patented charms. Made in New York’s Diamond District and worn worldwide, each piece is designed to be used, mixed, and redefined by the wearer.

From giving away thousands of Heartlocks to single moms to winning the 2024 Gem Award for Jewelry Design, Marla’s work pushes boundaries redefining what jewelry is, and who it’s for.

Learn more about Marla and Marla Aaron Jewelry at www.marlaaaron.com 

Or follow her on Instagram at @marlaaaron

For more information about the Lock Your Mom initiative:

https://marlaaaron.com/pages/lock-your-mom-unhinged

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What does it really mean to feel confident behind the wheel — and in your life?

In this episode, I’m speaking to Robert Weldon (Bob) a driving instructor with nearly forty years of experience teaching in London. I came to Bob a mature learner, determined to pass my test first time, and continued lessons afterwards partly for skill-building, partly for the mentorship and friendship.

We explore how Bob’s deep-rooted confidence has shaped his approach to teaching driving and life—his calm under pressure, his ability to adapt to people and how teaching for decades has kept him sharp, humble, and grounded by a sense of humour that’s helped him navigate all kinds of people.

Through stories and driving metaphors—being in the driver’s seat of your life, shifting gears, slowing down before a leap—we dive into how confidence is literally a skill you build with practice, awareness, and grounded self-trust.

Whether you’re learning something new, recovering from failure, navigating change, or simply wanting to feel more steady in life, this conversation offers no-nonsense wisdom and actionable perspective.

Key Takeaways:

• Confidence begins with competence: as Bob says, it’s knowing what you're doing and being sure of yourself—a foundation built over time and practice.
• Learning is a progression: from unconscious incompetence to unconscious competence - driving is an ideal metaphor for that journey.
• The importance of awareness over speed: staying safe on the road, or in life, comes from looking, pausing, thinking - not rushing.
• Adaptability builds trust: Bob’s mechanical approach - analysing, recalibrating illustrates confidence as resilience, not façade. Rational persistence and self-belief can overcome fear.
• Confidence isn’t always the full story: Luck can play a quiet but powerful role in shaping a good life.
• It’s never too late for new experiences: How failure is rarely personal and it’s never too late to learn something new and overcome old fears.
• Being anchored in self-worth: Bob embodies a grounded self-belief that just is. “I am what I am.”

About Bob:

Bob is a London-based driving instructor with nearly 40 years of experience, teaching hundreds of pupils. He offers driving lessons through the British School of Motoring. You can book lessons with him on: www.bsm.co.uk

Other notes:

Podcast mentioned: How to Fail with Elizabeth Day

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What does it really mean to be confident – and how do we grow it in a lasting way?

In this episode, I’m joined by Vicky Reynal, a psychodynamic psychotherapist and the UK’s first financial therapist, to unpack the emotional roots of confidence. We explore how early life experiences shape our sense of worth, how we can raise confident children, and how our relationship with money often reflects deeper beliefs about ourselves.

Vicky shares practical and compassionate guidance on how we can begin to build true confidence - by working with fear, recognising our strengths and weaknesses, and moving gently beyond our comfort zone. Whether you're trying to ask for a raise, set boundaries, speak up, or simply feel more secure in yourself, this conversation offers both psychological depth and practical next steps. If you’ve ever struggled with confidence (whether in relationships, career, or finances) this episode offers empathic, evidence-based insights and actionable steps to move forward.

Key Takeaways:

·       How to challenge your inner critic by embracing a more balanced, reality-based mindset instead of fearing rejection or failure.

·       The importance of recognising both your strengths and weaknesses, and why accepting imperfection opens the door to growth.

·       Why taking manageable risks (even small ones) can be empowering and boost confidence.

·       The role of emotional factors in financial behavior, including feelings of worthiness and agency, and how these influence money habits.

·       Gender differences in risk-taking and confidence, with insights into how cultural and evolutionary factors shape financial attitudes.

·       Vicky’s personal journey with confidence, including how therapy helped her embrace being “ordinary” as a source of freedom, not failure.

·       Practical advice on building lasting confidence, such as pushing the edge of your comfort zone through preparation and practice.

·       Tips for raising confident children by nurturing a healthy self-view and encouraging resilience.

About Vicky:

Vicky Reynal is a psychodynamic psychotherapist and the UK’s first financial therapist. She specialises in helping people understand the unconscious emotional drivers behind their money habits and self-worth. She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania (cum laude), alongside postgraduate diplomas in counselling and psychodynamic psychotherapy from WPF Therapy in London. Vicky also has an MBA from London Business School and an MA from the College of Europe. She is an accredited member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and is recognised as the UK’s first financial therapist.

Her book, Money on Your Mind, explores the intersection of emotional wellbeing and financial confidence, offering practical guidance for readers to understand and transform their relationship with money and self-worth.

Connect with Vicky:

Book: Money on Your Mind: the Psychology behind your Financial Habits – available now

Website:  vickyreynal.com

Instagram: @vickypsychotherapy

LinkedIn: Vicky Reynal

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We prepare our CVs and rehearse our answers, but how often do we work on the confidence behind the words?

In this episode, Ciara sits down with Nick Hedley of executive search firm Hedley May, to explore what confidence really is, how it fluctuates, and why it matters so much during interviews and career transitions.

From reframing interviews as two-way conversations to understanding how setbacks can quietly shape your self-worth, this conversation dives deep into the mental and emotional side of the job search. You’ll hear strategies for navigating rejection, building momentum in uncertain times, and showing up with belief in your own value—even when it feels hardest.

If you're preparing for interviews (as interviewer or interviewee), feeling stuck, or rethinking your next career step, this episode offers practical wisdom and a grounded reminder that confidence isn’t something you simply have or don’t—it’s something you can build. Ciara and Nick also discuss how confidence influences social mobility and the factors that can help bridge opportunity gaps.

For anyone navigating change or aiming to lead with greater clarity and self-belief, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways

• Confidence is built, not born: It grows through repetition, preparation, and showing up even when you don’t feel ready.
• Treat interviews as two-way conversations: They’re about mutual fit—not just proving yourself. Bring your value and assess the environment too.
• Don’t disqualify yourself: Apply even if you meet only part of the criteria. Let the employer decide, not your inner critic.
• Rejection doesn’t define your worth: Losing a job or being overlooked is situational—not a reflection of who you are.
• Structure helps during uncertainty: Create a process for job searching or career exploration. Track your efforts and keep moving forward with intention.
• Confidence grows when you focus outward: Shift from “how do I look?” to “how can I help?” to stay connected and purposeful.
• Mindset matters in low moments: View discomfort as a sign of growth. If it feels hard, you’re likely moving in the right direction.

About Nick

Nick Hedley has been driven by a belief that executive search firms could and should deliver far more value to clients, candidates, and society at large.

A trained lawyer, Nick is an expert in roles such as General Counsel, Company Secretary, Chief Compliance Officer, Chief Risk Officer, and Head of Internal Audit. He is widely recognised for his insights into how culture and governance affect an organization’s long-term sustainability.

Nick regularly speaks at industry events, sharing expertise on the balance functional leaders must maintain between managing risk and driving business strategy, all within the context of governance, culture, and leadership. His keynotes often focus on developing future talent pipelines and defining success for functional leaders.

His chief motivation is to help others realize their potential and find purpose in their work. Nick extends this passion through his client work, mentoring, and championing social mobility, including as a judge for the UK Social Mobility Awards.

Resources

Website: www.hedleymay.com

Email: [email protected]

Book: The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins

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Welcome to In Confidence!

In a world of bold voices and quiet doubts, this podcast is where we talk honestly about confidence.

In this introductory episode, I explore the two big questions that will guide this series: What is confidence? And how can we have more?

What Does This Episode Cover?

·      Why confidence matters and why it’s so often misunderstood

·      Two types of confidence: situational and general

·      How confidence evolves from expertise to self-trust

·      How to build confidence

·      What to expect from future episodes 

·      Why this podcast is about doing, not just listening

Who Am I?

I’m Ciara Woods, a Master Certified Coach — a credential held by around 5% of coaches globally. I’ve worked with leaders in more than 20 countries across five continents, including FTSE 100 and NASDAQ 100 companies, global law firms, financial institutions, and NGOs. Confidence comes up all the time in my work and this podcast is my way of bringing those powerful conversations to you.

How Does It Work?

Each episode, I’ll talk with someone from a different walk of life (including CEOs, creatives, and change-makers) and together, we’ll explore what confidence means to them, what they’ve learned, and what might help you, too.

But this isn’t just a podcast about confidence, it’s a space to build it. I want to encourage listeners to move from insight to action.

Each episode will offer a few simple suggestions, and you can decide what you would like to focus on — whether it’s a reflection, a mindset shift, or a small action you want to try.

Because confidence doesn’t just grow through ideas, it grows through action.

When do episodes come out?

New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of every month.

And you’ll find weekly nudges (also on Tuesdays) over to help keep you inspired and on track on:

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ciarawoods
• Instagram: @ciara_woods_coach
• Substack: In Confidence with Ciara Woods

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There’s plenty of talk about the best nutrition, but have you ever considered how what you eat affects your confidence?

In this episode of the podcast, Jackie, an award-winning nutritionist, author, speaker, and founder of the WellWellWell nutrition clinic, shares her expertise on how nutrition influences more than just your physical health — playing a crucial role in boosting confidence, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

From balancing blood sugar to understanding how stress and hormones impact you, Jackie breaks down practical food strategies to help you stay grounded and sharp, both personally and professionally. If you’re experiencing the unique challenges of menopause, Jackie’s specialized knowledge as a menopause nutrition expert offers tailored advice to support you. 

For anyone looking to boost confidence and well-being, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Key Takeaways

• Why Confidence Isn’t Just Psychological — It’s Also Physiological: Jackie explains the powerful connection between physical health and confidence, and how hormones and blood sugar balance directly impact mental clarity and self-belief.
• Simple Food Strategies to Stop the Crash-and-Burn Cycle of Busy Days: Learn how small tweaks in your diet can keep you energized all day long and avoid those mid-afternoon energy slumps.
• How Nutritional Habits Can Support Women Through Menopause and Beyond: Jackie discusses how nutritional habits can help women maintain confidence and clarity during menopause and beyond, supporting emotional and mental well-being during this life transition.
• What Jackie Would Say to Her Younger Self About Confidence in Boardrooms: Jackie reflects on her past experiences in environments where dominant voices often overshadow others and shares what she wishes she knew about confidently navigating those spaces.

About Jackie

Jackie Lynch is an award-winning nutritionist, author, speaker, and the founder of the WellWellWell nutrition clinic, where she helps women navigate menopause with confidence. After spending 13 years in France, where her passion for food and nutrition grew, Jackie made a major career shift at 40, leaving a corporate job to study nutritional therapy. This transformation led her to open her own clinic and become a respected voice in the field.

Jackie hosts the popular The Happy Menopause podcast and is the founder of The Happy Menopause Club, offering expert resources for midlife women. She is the author of the bestselling The Happy Menopause: Smart Nutrition to Help You Flourish and her upcoming book, The Happy Menopause Guide to Energy (2025). A regular media contributor, Jackie’s clinic was named Menopause Nutrition Clinic of the Year in the 2021 and 2022 London & South-East Prestige Awards. She is a Fellow of the British Association for Nutrition & Lifestyle Medicine and served as Chair of the Institute for Optimum Nutrition from 2011 to 2022.

Resources

Find out more about Jackie and the work that she does: 

• On her website: https://www.well-well-well.co.uk
• Her podcast: https://www.well-well-well.co.uk/podcast
• And for advice on nutrition and menopause, check out her book: The Happy Menopause: Smart Nutrition to Help You Flourish

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