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Have you ever wondered if your phone habits are actually rewiring your brain—and what you can do to reclaim truly meaningful conversations? In today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into the reality of digital overwhelm, exploring how our constant connectivity shapes not only our attention spans, but also our ability to build real, lasting connections.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and a “recovering college professor” turned communication coach. If you caught my earlier conversation with Craig Mattson about digital overwhelm (and if not, be sure to listen!), today I’m taking our discussion one step further. This episode is packed with practical tips to help you break out of the screen-time spiral and nurture richer, more present communication—at work, at home, and everywhere it matters.

I unpack just how our devices—and the behaviors they encourage—impact our brains, our relationships, and our emotional well-being. Did you know that our attention span has dropped to less than a goldfish’s, or that checking your phone mid-conversation can physically hurt your relationships? I detail the science behind these findings, walking you through what’s really happening in your brain when you’re glued to your screen.

Here’s a sneak peek of what we cover in this episode:

• How excessive screen time quite literally changes the physical structure of your brain, especially the areas that keep your empathy and emotional processing sharp
• The eye-opening comparison between our attention span today and that of a goldfish (spoiler: the fish is winning)
• Why multitasking is just rapid attention switching, and how every notification derails your focus for as much as 25 minutes
• How checking your phone—even for a split second—during meetings or conversations triggers feelings of rejection and erodes trust
• The surprising emotional gap in text-based communication vs. phone calls or in-person chats, including why arguments take longer to resolve over text and why emojis don’t always help
• The neuroscience behind why social media may be numbing our real-world empathy, and how dopamine-driven interactions make it harder to form deep, lasting bonds
• Simple, science-backed strategies to repair your attention span—like the 90/20 rule, tech-free meal times, and delaying morning phone use—and the powerful results you can expect to see
• The truth about “multitasking” in virtual meetings and the dramatic drop in information retention when devices are present
• Why creating analog space and reducing digital distractions leads not only to better memory and increased empathy, but more rewarding, memorable conversations

Throughout the episode, I share practical experiments, easy habits, and real-world stories—along with the latest research—to help you make progress, not seek perfection. You’ll discover small changes that restore focus and connection, proving you don’t have to renounce technology to build your confidence as a communicator. Start with just one device-free meal a day and see just how much deeper your conversations can go.

Don’t forget to check out speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook and details on my public speaking course. Your voice matters—and with a bit of intentionality, you can ensure it’s heard, felt, and

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Have you ever wondered how introverts can thrive on stage and conquer self-doubt, even when anxiety and imposter syndrome are in the way? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into the journeys, frameworks, and behind-the-scenes realities of overcoming hesitation so you can step up and speak out—no matter how nervous you may feel.

Today, I’m excited to welcome my friend Michael Pope: an international keynote speaker, leadership coach, and author of Doers Win the Day. Known as the Hesitation Breaker, Michael Pope brings over two decades of IT and leadership experience, having transformed software developers into adept people developers. His expertise centers on productivity, overcoming hesitation, and equipping high achievers and introverted professionals with the tools they need to succeed.

We explore the unique challenges introverts face when the spotlight is on. Michael Pope opens up about his process for “recharging on demand” after high-energy engagements and the importance of being present and available to audience members after events—even if it feels uncomfortable at first. We also discuss practical networking strategies, like attending events with a purpose-driven list of connections, and why you must add value to others before asking anything in return.

A major highlight of our conversation is imposter syndrome and the excuses that creep in. We talk candidly about those moments of hesitation—like almost inviting a dream guest on the show but never quite hitting send. 

We unpack Michael Pope’s signature DOER framework (Discipline, Opportunity, Eliminate Excuses, Responsibility) and how it applies not just to speaking, but to every area of personal and professional growth. He gives real-life examples of stretching outside your comfort zone, preparing for high-stakes talks (and recovering when things go wrong), and the importance of coaching and mentorship—no matter how seasoned you become.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

• Why sharing personal stories (especially about family) builds trust and relatability
• Strategies for introverts to thrive on stage and in back-to-back networking environments
• The necessity of approaching events and networking with a clear, value-driven purpose
• The DOER framework and how to use it to push through hesitation, excuses, and fear
• Real talk on imposter syndrome and actionable ways to move past it
• How joining Toastmasters and investing in coaching can fast track your progress
• Surprising lessons from sharing the stage with legends like Les Brown and learning from mentors like Roddy Galbraith
• The process of preparing for a major keynote event—from understanding the client’s goals to practicing with intention
• When technology fails: staying cool, calm, and professional under pressure
• The power of recording yourself and constructive self-feedback for brand-new speakers
• Why celebrating small wins every day fuels growth and momentum for the long haul

If you want to find your authentic voice, build rock-solid speaking habits, and finally stop holding yourself back, you’ll want to listen to every minute of this episode. Tune in, take notes, and remember: your voice has the power to change the world—but only if you’re brave enough to use it.

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Are you building a network that looks impressive on paper, but feels hollow in practice? Are you craving genuine professional relationships that help you grow, not just fill your contact list? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle the paradox facing modern professionals: staying "connected" but still feeling isolated. If you’ve ever wondered why your networking efforts haven’t translated into real momentum or meaningful relationships, this episode is for you.

I dive deep into the concept of what I call the Connector Climber—a mindset and system that blends authentic relationship-building with purposeful career growth. Drawing from years as a college professor and coach, I share hard-earned insights and a practical framework designed to help you move beyond the two most common personality traps: the Connector (the selfless but stagnant giver) and the Climber (the ambitious but isolated achiever). I reveal how recognizing which type you tend toward is the first step to transforming how you build your network.

In this episode, I unpack the reasons why simply "knowing everyone" isn’t enough, and why climbing the career ladder solo leaves you stranded. You’ll hear personal stories, including my own aha moment in academia and a powerful example from a client who broke out of the connector rut to lead strategic projects.

Here’s what I covered:

• Why most professionals fall into the Connector or Climber category, and why both approaches are incomplete
• The essential mindset shift: moving from being useful to being collaborative, and the role vulnerability plays in building lasting relationships
• How to define your personal “mountain”—the specific goal that catalyzes intentional connections
• The three non-negotiable rules for becoming a Connector Climber: knowing your mountain, auditing your circle for growth-minded influences, and creating value instead of trading favors
• Practical, real-world examples of what value creation looks like, and how to frame networking conversations as mutual exchanges rather than asks
• A step-by-step challenge to help you reconnect with someone in your network with clarity and intention
• The differences between transactional and transformational relationships, and how to build a team—not just a contact list—that supports your professional climb
• Resources for further growth, including my book Connections That Count and free guides for public speakers

By the end of the episode, you’ll be equipped with a system that transforms your approach to networking—from checking boxes to sowing the seeds of true collaboration and mutual momentum. If you’re ready to build connections that actually count, this episode is your roadmap to becoming a confident Connector Climber. Thanks for listening and being part of the Speaking with Confidence community!

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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!

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Have you ever listened to a recording of your own voice and thought, “Who is that?” If you’ve ever cringed at the sound of your voice on tape, you’re not alone. In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into why our own voice sounds so strange to us on a recording—and more importantly, what you can do about it.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Today’s episode is all about bridging the gap between the voice you think you have and the one the world actually hears. I’ll show you why you don’t need to “fix” your voice, but understand what’s happening behind the scenes—both physically and psychologically—so you can finally build confidence in how you sound for your presentations, meetings, and important conversations.

There’s no guest this week; it's just me, sharing techniques and insights straight from my own coaching experience. If you’ve ever felt hesitant to speak up because you’re self-conscious about your voice, or you want to project more authority and command in your professional life, this episode is for you.

Here’s what I cover:

• Why your voice sounds so different—and often “worse”—when you hear it recorded, thanks to the physics of bone conduction versus air conduction.
• The phenomenon I call “imposter voice syndrome” and why it fuels self-doubt and anxiety.
• How exposure therapy can help you get comfortable with the sound of your recorded voice and shift from self-judgment to self-acceptance.
• Practical, immediately actionable techniques to power up your voice, including diaphragmatic breathing for resonance and steadiness, finding your optimal pitch with safe and easy exercises, and the strategic use of pauses to add authority and presence.
• Tips for using volume and articulation to ensure your message lands—so you never mumble or fade out at a crucial moment.
• How the way you use your voice transforms your leadership presence and credibility.
• Tactics for handling high-pressure situations, reading the room, and dynamically adjusting your delivery for maximum impact.
• Developing a simple, five-minute pre-speaking vocal warmup routine to make confidence a habit instead of a hope.
• The mindset shift from self-consciousness to audience focus so you stop apologizing for your sound and start using your voice as a strategic communication asset.

By the end of the episode, you’ll realize that your voice is not something to hide or “fix”—it’s your unique communication signature. With some deliberate practice and self-kindness, you’ll be on your way to speaking with authentic confidence, no matter the situation. If you take away only one thing today, let it be this: your voice has the power to change the world, starting with how you think and feel about it.

For more resources, remember to grab your free eBook and check out the Formula for Public Speaking rules at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com. Until next time, embrace your voice and keep building that confidence!

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Have you ever wondered how your written communication—resumes, LinkedIn profiles, career documents—can truly reflect who you are and ensure you're projecting the same confidence and authenticity in person as you do on paper? If you’ve found yourself stuck, unsure how to craft your professional story, or if you want your talents and personality to leap off the page and into your interviews, this episode is for you.

Welcome back to Speaking with Confidence! Today, I dive into the art and science of translating your professional story onto paper, a skill just as essential as public speaking. I’m joined by Amy Adler, a nationally recognized career strategist and founder of Five Strengths Career Transition Experts. Amy is an expert in coaching executives and professionals to tell their stories in amazing, impactful ways—helping them shine in written formats and feel truly confident when meeting hiring teams.

Here’s what we covered in this episode:

• How life experiences and regional culture shape communication, both written and spoken
• Why adapting your style to meet people where they are (“The Platinum Rule”) builds trust and connection
• Listening as a superpower for introverts—and transforming introversion into powerful coaching and storytelling
• Building confidence by reframing your career journey as a forward-thinking, impactful story
• Techniques for career transition: defining strategy, setting attainable goals, and building momentum
• The power of authenticity and congruence between your written documents and your real self in interviews
• Advice for young professionals and higher education: letting students tell their whole story, not just check boxes
• Breaking through fear and vulnerability in the job search by seeking expert help—and why it’s a sign of strength, not weakness
• How collaborative coaching and resume writing can transform personal narratives, boost self-belief, and elevate career outcomes

If you’re ready to bridge the gap between your resume and your real, confident self—and learn strategies that make your written communication truly impactful—give this episode a listen. Huge thanks to Amy Adler for sharing her wisdom and experience with such empathy and clarity. And thank you for tuning in to Speaking with Confidence!

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Have you ever felt that sinking feeling during a meeting or conversation when you realize you’re losing the room—people are checking their phones, yawning, or just looking right through you? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle exactly that challenge: how to read the room and respond in real time so you stay connected, engaged, and in control whenever you speak.

As someone who transitioned from being a college professor to a communication coach, I’ve seen firsthand how common these scenarios are—and I know how disheartening it can be when you feel your message isn’t landing. But here’s the good news: reading a room and understanding the invisible feedback loop in every group interaction isn’t an innate superpower. It’s a practical set of observation skills that anyone can learn and refine.

Here’s what we covered in this episode:

• Why reading the room is about observation, not mind-reading—and why anyone can learn it
• The big myth about social intelligence—and how being a better observer is the real secret
• The four universal behavioral cues that signal audience engagement (phone checking, yawning, fidgeting, blank stares)
• Real-world examples: what these cues mean in meetings, networking events, and interviews
• The importance of interpreting cues in context (and the dangers of knee-jerk misinterpretations)
• Easy, low-pressure ways to scan a room and spot behavioral patterns
• How to respond when you see signs of disengagement—without making it awkward or calling people out
• Techniques to shift energy, boost engagement, and reset the group dynamic
• Transitioning from self-consciousness to others-awareness to become a more intentional and confident communicator
• A simple exercise to practice observation skills in your next meeting

By the end of this episode, you’ll have a set of repeatable techniques to help you read any room and respond with confidence—no matter the situation. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection, and every conversation is a chance to build this skill.

If you want to dive deeper, head over to speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com to grab your free eBook on overcoming the top public speaking challenges, and check out the format for the Public Speaking course. Your voice is powerful, and it’s time to use it to change your world.

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Have you ever wondered if charisma is something you’re born with, or if it can be built—and more importantly, how it impacts your confidence and effectiveness as a communicator? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I sit down with John Ball, a keynote and presentation coach who’s spent years helping speakers, coaches, and leaders boost their influence from competent to captivating. Today, we dig into the journey of finding your authentic voice as a speaker, the joys and challenges of adding humor to presentations, and the real value of showing up with warmth and confidence, wherever you are in the world.

John Ball brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table—not only as the host of The Present Influence Podcast and co-host of the Coaching Clinic podcast, but also as a professional speaker on topics like personal mastery and leadership communication. His global perspective as someone who’s lived in both the UK and Spain and spent years as a flight attendant puts him in a unique position to discuss connecting with different cultures, and how traveling has shaped his approach to communication and coaching.

In this episode, we cover:

• How traveling and working abroad expands your communication skills and comfort zones
• Using humor and warmth as universal connectors across cultures
• Why every speaker should try stand-up comedy at least once
• The difference between charisma and charm—and how to spot “fake” charisma
• Techniques to build genuine charisma (even if you’re not naturally extroverted)
• The process of testing and refining stories for presentations
• Emotional leadership and the responsibility you hold as a speaker
• Why presence and vulnerability matter more than perfection
• How to avoid charisma killers like overthinking and ego
• The importance of living with intention and making positive choices in how you show up
• Stage time as the single most effective way to improve your communication
• Storytelling tips: focusing on transformation, emotional flow, and audience engagement

If you’re ready to take your communication from competent to captivating—and want to put more humor, warmth, and charisma into every conversation that counts—this episode is packed with stories, strategies, and encouragement to get you started. Ready to step up, lighten up, and speak with more confidence than ever before? Listen now, and let’s grow together.

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Do you ever feel like you're doing all the “right” things at networking events, but somehow you still walk away with a stack of business cards—yet none of those connections turn into genuine relationships or career opportunities? If so, this episode is for you.

I'm Tim Newman, host of Speaking with Confidence, and in today’s solo episode, I dig deep into the art (and science) of networking—and why most traditional approaches are holding you back. You’ll hear why so many professionals get stuck in a transactional mindset, treating networking as a numbers game rather than a process of real relationship-building. If you’ve ever wondered why your networking feels hollow (or downright fake), we uncover the gap between “collecting contacts” and creating meaningful professional relationships that truly advance your career.

We start with the classic post-event scenario: you’ve met loads of people, exchanged business cards, but later realize you can barely remember anyone and end up tossing those cards into that infamous desk drawer where connections go to die. I call this “fake networking,” and it’s not just ineffective—it’s potentially damaging to your professional reputation.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

• Why collecting business cards isn’t the same as building real professional relationships
• The damaging effects of transactional, numbers-based networking mindsets
• The two most common forms of fake networking: “self-serving connections” and “ghost follow-ups”
• The long-term reputational risks of fake networking tactics
• How leadership and influence (not just connections) determine your career potential
• A two-part strategy to shift to authentic, value-driven networking
• How to discover and articulate your unique value before every interaction
• The importance of research and matching your value to others’ real needs
• Why reliable follow-through is the ultimate networking credibility builder
• How to become the kind of connection others seek out—so opportunities come to you

If you want to break out of the cycle of shallow networking and start making connections that truly count, this episode will give you both the insight and the practical steps you need. Remember, your next professional interaction is an opportunity to show up differently, lead with value, and nurture a network that lifts you higher.

Thanks for listening to Speaking with Confidence. Check out speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook, The Top 20 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and find details on our Formula for Public Speaking course. Your voice has the power to change it—see you next time!

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Have you ever wondered what it really takes to speak confidently in front of any audience—whether it’s a crowded boardroom, a theatre-stage packed with anticipation, or a busy hair salon at age twelve? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I welcome back the incredible Rachael Edmondson-Clarke for her second appearance—a rare privilege on this show! Rachael’s journey from sweeping floors in her mom’s beauty salon to leading professional speakers across the UK and Ireland is more than inspirational—it’s a masterclass in authentic communication, building trust, and continuous growth.

In this episode, we dive deep into how early experiences shape our ability to read nonverbal cues, remain genuine, and adapt our energy to truly connect with others. Rachael shares the story of working reception in her mom’s salon—juggling two telephones, a crowd of clients, and a team of stylists—all before she was sixteen! She reflects on how tuning into body language transformed not only her customer service skills but also her capacity to lead and build trust, skills that have served her throughout her career.

Rachael takes us on a whirlwind tour of her professional journey: from impactful presenting workshops, to drama stages, to corporate boardrooms, and finally to becoming vice president of the Professional Speaking Association UK & Ireland. She shares candid lessons from competing in the Speaker Factor competition, including her “banana and dark chocolate” ritual, and how even a tough performance can be the launchpad for real growth when you have the right community supporting you.

We talk about the crucial importance of congruence—making sure your words, body language, and tone all align to build trust and credibility. Rachael’s anecdotes highlight that storytelling isn’t just about big, heroic moments; it’s also about the everyday stories (including her infamous toothbrush battery saga!) that make you relatable and memorable to any audience.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasize how practice, resilience, and vulnerability are key to developing as a speaker. Whether it’s learning from an uncomfortable video replay or dusting off your presentation after setbacks, the journey to confident communication is ongoing—and full of opportunities to embrace humor, share truth, and connect authentically.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

• How reading body language and energy can elevate your communication—starting at the salon reception desk
• Why being congruent (aligning words and actions) builds trust with any audience
• Rachael’s transition from corporate marketing roles to leading professional speakers—and what she learned along the way
• The value of continuous learning and putting your skills into practice (even if it means watching yourself on video!)
• Behind-the-scenes secrets of the Speaker Factor competition (including performance rituals, nerves, and bouncing back from setbacks)
• The pivotal role of storytelling—why everyday moments matter as much as big, dramatic stories
• Using humor (self-deprecating or otherwise) as a powerful connector and communicator
• Practical advice for anyone looking to build confidence: find your own style, practice, and seek feedback from a supportive community

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