In today's smartphone age, communication via messages and moments is easy. But there are times when we have to speak direct to someone. For many people, that can be a daunting and often frustrating experience. Edwin Maher has some tips - preceded by an amusing childhood recollection of the family's first telephone and his father's job on the local telephone exchange in New Zealand.

Many of us speak in a monotone with not much light and shade in our conversation. But we're far more likely to add greater emphasis when we pass on some good news - 'WOW ... I GOT a NEW JOB TODAY'! Expand your vocal range for all situations, varying the pitch (intonation) when speaking naturally. But don't force it, as Edwin Maher explains.

Having a conversation in a crowded room, especially when the faces are NOT familiar, can be a daunting task. It's true in many situations where we want to have a relaxed chat without worrying about how we speak. Ever thought of playing the role of an interviewer? Take a listen, then take charge!

Broadcaster Edwin Maher introduces his podcast series, Speaking Naturally, aimed at helping you improve your communication skills.

"I have to give a presentation at work tomorrow, and the butterflies are going crazy." Broadcaster Edwin Maher explains how to get them to 'fly in formation' and calm you down. He also recalls a forgettable experience when 'the nerves' froze him in front of an audience.

Good vibrations are needed to get the voice resonating. Edwin Maher explains how to give your vocal chords an effective tuneup.

Broadcaster Edwin Maher takes you on an informal journey with advice to help you improve your communication skills.

In this episode, hear a clip of his first ever recording - 'a shocker' - compared with now. It's proof that change is always possible.

Learn the techniques of improving your oral communication skills as broadcaster Edwin Maher guides you along the path to Speaking Naturally. It's an informal series laced with humour and some home truths about his own stumbles along the way.

Improve your oral communication by learning the techniques of Speaking Naturally. Your host, Edwin Maher outlines what's ahead in this first series.

The very first episode of Speaking Naturally with Edwin Maher!