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What would you do if you were asked to give a speech on the spot—with zero time to prepare? That’s the question we’re tackling in today’s episode, and if you’ve ever felt your heart drop when called on unexpectedly, this one’s for you.

Welcome back to Speaking with Confidence—I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Today, we’re diving into the “emergency kit” that pros use when they have to speak without warning. If you’ve ever found yourself in a meeting, tasked to cover for a colleague who didn’t show up, or asked for a project update out of the blue, you know the stress of thinking on your feet. While nothing replaces thoughtful preparation, everyone needs a go-to strategy for those moments when life throws curveballs.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How to use the PREP method for instant structure
• The power and practicality of the Rule of Three
• The “ten second trick” for gaining time and composure
• Why stories and examples beat theories every time
• Real-life scripts for handling pressure in meetings and presentations
• How to combine these techniques for a clear, confident 5-minute presentation—even when you’re put on the spot

Thanks for tuning in to Speaking with Confidence. Until next time—keep practicing, keep growing, and keep letting your voice be heard.

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Have you ever wondered why empathy is often considered a “soft skill,” and whether it truly has a place in driving real results within leadership, organizations, and communication? On this week’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle this question head-on with my guest, Dr. Melissa Robinson-Winemiller, an expert in empathy, emotional intelligence, and visionary leadership.

I’m Tim Newman, your host–a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Every week, I help listeners build the skills and confidence they need to show up powerfully in every conversation. Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Winemiller, whose mission is to help leaders become future visionaries by making empathy skills-based, data-driven, and results-oriented. Melissa brings a rich background as both a world-traveling musician and a former academic who has dedicated her life to understanding and teaching empathy for profit, productivity, and innovation.

Our conversation kicks off with Melissa’s fascinating backstory: how a lifelong passion for music took her across the globe, on tours and prestigious stages, and even saw her playing French horn alongside legends like Ray Charles and conversing with David Ogden Steers (MAS*H’s Winchester). As Melissa shares, her journey from the world of performance to academia—and ultimately to empathy research—was shaped by witnessing both the highs of artistic connection and the lows of broken, unempathetic systems.

Here's what we covered:

• Melissa’s journey from international touring musician to empathy expert and academic
• Life and communication lessons from the world of music performance
• The vulnerability of public speaking versus musical performance
• Teaching and connecting with students through listening and individualized communication
• The real impact of empathy (and lack thereof) in education and business
• Why empathy is undervalued—and how research supports its ROI
• Strategies for leaders to foster trust, engagement, and innovation through empathy
• The Johari Window model for communication and self-awareness
• The difference between kindness and niceness in leadership and business
• Practical ways to build empathy in teams and organizations (plus when real change requires a leadership overhaul)
• The case for embedding empathy in educational systems from an early age
• Real world examples from Melissa’s book about the financial and human costs of broken organizations
• Where to find Melissa’s book, connect online, and catch her TEDx talk (soon to be released!)

Melissa’s insights go far beyond theory—they’re deeply rooted in lived experience, rigorous research, and a powerful vision for future-forward leadership. Don’t miss this episode if you want to learn how to use empathy not just to “feel good,” but to drive lasting, meaningful results in your work and life.

Thanks for joining me—Tim Newman—on this journey to speaking with confidence. Be sure to check out speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook, “Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them,” and stay tuned for our next episode!

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Have you ever walked out of an interview thinking you nailed it, only to get that dreaded rejection email? If you’ve ever wondered why your answers weren’t as memorable as you hoped, you’re definitely not alone—and this episode of Speaking with Confidence is for you.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and communication coach, and today we’re diving deep into a question that can make all the difference between being passed over and landing the job: How do you turn routine interview answers into momentum-packed stories that recruiters remember?

In this solo episode, we explore the power of storytelling in interviews—specifically, how moving away from bland job description recaps and instead zeroing in on moments when you made a real difference can set you apart from the crowd. We’ll unpack the biggest mistake most candidates make: defaulting to flat, activity-based responses that tell interviewers what you did, but not how you moved the needle.

You’ll hear why showing measurable progress is so powerful, both for impressing human hiring managers and even AI-driven applicant tracking systems. We’ll dig into the neuroscience behind why stories that highlight change and results are 22 times more memorable than plain lists of tasks. Most importantly, I’ll arm you with my Momentum Story Blueprint—a repeatable, actionable formula based on the STAR method that will help you frame your contributions in ways that recruiters will notice (and remember).

In today’s episode, we cover:

• The real reason so many candidates blend together in interviews—and how you can stand out
• How to move beyond listing job duties and instead showcase your impact, growth, and results
• The science behind why outcome-focused stories stick with interviewers
• How John Maxwell’s Momentum Principle applies to interviews (and why “the law of the big Mo” is your secret weapon)
• Why skill-based hiring trends and even AI screening tools favor momentum-driven answers
• A step-by-step breakdown of the Momentum Story Blueprint: how to define the situation, detail actions, and cement your results with metrics
• Real-life examples that show you how to transform your raw experiences into compelling evidence of future potential
• Practical tips for sharpening your stories, practicing them for video or audio interviews, and ensuring every answer packs a punch

By the end of this episode, you’ll know how to show—clearly and confidently—not just what you’ve done, but the visible difference you can make. Whether you’re preparing for your next big interview or just want to get better at communicating your value, this episode gives you the tools to prove you’re the candidate who brings momentum wherever you go.

Ready to move your career story forward? Hit play and let’s get started. And don’t forget—after you listen, head over to speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook and more resources to help you become a memorable, confident communicator.

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Have you ever wondered what it really takes to lead with clarity, courage, and impact, without burning out or losing yourself in the process? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into that question and explore the real-life challenges and mindset shifts required to build a fulfilling, sustainable leadership journey.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Today, I’m joined by an inspiring guest: Rachael Edmondson-Clarke. Rachael brings an extraordinary wealth of experience from her years as a senior corporate leader to her current role running Elevar, her own leadership consultancy. Over the past decade, she's helped countless high-performing leaders and teams show up bravely, with clarity and authenticity, even in challenging environments. Rachael is also a former regional Vice President and President of the Professional Speaking Association in the UK and Ireland, and a sought-after speaker, coach, and consultant. She’s the perfect person to help us unpack the realities of leadership, personal growth, and balance in a fast-paced world.

In our conversation, Rachael opens up about what it was like climbing the corporate ladder before facing a sudden, life-changing wake-up call—a moment that forced her to reevaluate everything she thought she wanted. She describes the intense pressure of trying to “push through,” the toll it took on her health and relationships, and how it ultimately led to her collapsing in her office. Most importantly, she shares how she rebuilt her life and career from that moment of crisis, moving from survival mode to creating a business that aligns with her values, energy, and mission.

Other highlights include:

• The hidden costs of always being “on” and why biology can’t be outsmarted by mindset alone
• Practical approaches for restoring your energy and avoiding the traps of toxic productivity culture
• How organizational culture and unaddressed emotional needs impact team engagement, trust, and retention
• Tips for effective boundary-setting, especially in meeting-heavy, high-pressure environments
• The importance of honest, direct feedback from mentors and creating an inner circle that pushes you to grow—and how “fierce empathy” is the balance between tough love and real support
• A free tool from Rachael (The Pause) to cut through overwhelm and help you lead from truth, not fear
• Why the real value of personal development isn’t just your own growth, but how you show up as the leader the world needs

If you’re ready to step out of survival mode and into leadership that’s both impactful and sustainable—whether in your organization, your community, or your own household—this episode is packed with insights you’ll want to put into action right away.

As always, you can find resources and Rachael’s free download in the show notes. And don’t forget to grab your free copy of my Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers, or check out our public speaking course at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com.

Remember, your voice has power. Use it well, and you can change the world.

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Have you ever left a meeting feeling like you spent the whole time talking about yourself—or maybe stuck listening to someone else do it? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I’m diving into a challenge that creeps into nearly every workplace: dealing with the “me monster” and transforming conversations to actually build connection, trust, and meaningful collaboration.

I’m Tim Newman, your host, communication coach, and former college professor. This week, I’m tackling the tricky question: How do you handle difficult coworkers or even notice when you might be the “difficult one” yourself? In this episode, you won’t have to guess—I’ll show you simple ways to spot the habits that undermine teamwork and share a repeatable blueprint for having conversations that truly make a difference.

We start by recognizing an all-too-common office scenario: a team frantically working on a crashed server, while one coworker (let’s call her Sarah) dominates the conversation with off-topic stories about her weekend. While Sarah isn’t a villain—just another busy teammate slipping into autopilot—her “me monster” tendencies chip away at team cohesion and productivity. I’ll walk you through how science explains this instinct and why our brains so easily 

Here’s what you’ll walk away with:

• An honest look at what drives the “me monster” and how to recognize it in yourself and others
• Three red flags that signal you’re derailing conversations
• John Maxwell’s five-step Law of Connection—how to set your agenda aside, ask great questions, lean in, recall meaningful details, and follow-up
• Practical ways to apply a collaboration mindset, even with the toughest coworkers, and scripts you can start using today
• Awareness of how small communication changes can build trust, psychological safety, and unlock creative solutions on any team
• A micro-experiment for your next meeting to shift from “me-first” to shared success

Thanks for joining me on Speaking with Confidence. Remember, your voice has the power to change the dynamic of any team and every conversation. Keep practicing, keep connecting, and I’ll see you next time!

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Welcome back to “Speaking with Confidence.” I’m Tim Newman, your host and recovering college professor turned communication coach. In this episode, I dive into how radical responsibility shapes not only the way we communicate but the core of how we relate to ourselves and others. We look beyond typical “confidence” and get to the heart of conviction—the mindset shift that changes how we show up in our lives.

Joining me is Clay Moffat, a Navy veteran and performance strategist with a truly remarkable journey. Clay has been on top, coaching billionaires and building a seven-figure business—only to lose it all in a high-stakes startup crash. He faced the frightening possibility of permanent blindness while rebuilding his life, and from those experiences, Clay created the concept of the "trust trap"—the focus of his new book. Clay’s work helps people break free from the nervous system patterns and mental habits that keep us stuck in self-doubt, blame, and unproductive cycles, teaching not just confidence, but conviction rooted in personal power.

Our conversation starts with the central idea: what does it mean to take “radical responsibility” for our lives? Clay explains that it’s not about blaming yourself, but about owning even that “1%” of any situation that you can control or influence. As Clay puts it, reclaiming any sort of personal power, freedom, and forward motion in life begins with this kind of self-honesty. We talk about why the question “Why is this happening to me?” traps us in victimhood, and how reframing it to “How did I create this?” can shift us from powerlessness to agency. Through everyday stories—from missed vacations to major financial decisions—Clay shares how this mindset applies whether the stakes are small or life-changing.

Here’s what we covered in this episode:

• What is radical responsibility and how does it differ from blame or self-criticism?
• The difference between “confidence” and “conviction,” and why conviction matters for real communication and presence.
• How to spot when you’re stuck in victim thinking, and the questions to ask yourself to regain personal power.
• Practical strategies for transforming negative self-talk, including a four-step process to create a more supportive inner dialogue.
• The hidden ways family patterns and early conditioning shape our self-image and choices—often beneath conscious awareness.
• Why we ignore red flags and how our brains’ desire for shortcuts can create unhelpful mental “brackets” about people and situations.
• Real-life stories from Clay about high-stakes decision making, resilience, and bouncing back from major setbacks.
• How to own your story, communicate more authentically, and set a new standard for leadership, parenting, and self-trust.
• The power of mindset—the small language shifts that can open new pathways for growth, resilience, and effective action.
• Insights from “Trust Trap” on reclaiming authority over your life—even when circumstances and the world try to pull your power away.

Listen in to learn how taking radical responsibility can revolutionize how you see yourself, how you show up in the world, and the trust you create with others and yourself.

Don’t forget, you can connect with Clay Moffat on X (formerly Twitter) @MoffatClay o

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Have you ever wondered if miscommunication might actually help you become a more engaging and memorable communicator? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I explore a surprising twist on a familiar idea: sometimes, leaving a little room for confusion or ambiguity can actually boost curiosity, spark discussion, and fuel unforgettable moments—on stage, online, and even in negotiation.

I'm Tim Newman, your host—a recovering college professor turned communication coach—and I’ve spent over 80 episodes talking about the power of clear communication. But today, I flip the script and dive into why miscommunication isn’t always the enemy it’s made out to be. From viral memes and comedy to business leadership and marketing, I share the latest research and real-world examples of how a bit of strategic ambiguity can capture attention, create energy, and invite others to actively engage with your message.

No guest joins me for this episode, but I take you on a journey through some fascinating insights from communication scholars, comedians, media analysts, and strategists. I unpack how, across a variety of settings, purposeful ambiguity can spark engagement, inspire creativity, and keep people talking long after the conversation ends.

Here’s what I cover in this episode:

• Why the gap between what’s said and what’s meant is the secret behind viral memes, comedy punchlines, and successful negotiations.
• Research showing that a little uncertainty or open-endedness can actually draw people in and hold their attention—sometimes much more than a perfectly explained message.
• How memes like “Distracted Boyfriend” and “Woman Yelling at Cat” harness ambiguity to invite endless audience participation and creativity.
• The role of strategic ambiguity in business, leadership, and marketing—for example, how broad or aspirational language attracts more candidates and participants by letting them see themselves in the picture.
• How comedians turn miscommunication into laughs by intentionally leading audiences down the “wrong path” before delivering the twist.
• The importance of timing, empathy, and precision when using ambiguity—whether you’re crafting a brand campaign, negotiating, or writing a killer joke.
• The line between clever ambiguity and harmful confusion—where to draw boundaries to make sure your message is effective and respectful.
• Practical tips to experiment with curiosity gaps and partial premises in your own speaking and writing, while always putting your audience first.

If you want to make your communication more engaging and memorable—or just want to understand why the most viral moments are often the least perfectly polished—this episode offers a new perspective on why “less clarity” might, at times, be more powerful.

Be sure to grab your free eBook, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com, and check out my Formula for Public Speaking groups. And remember: your voice has the power to change the world. Catch you next time!

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What does it really take to become a powerful speaker, even if you’re terrified of public speaking? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I’m taking you deep into the strategies, stories, and mindset shifts that will help you overcome your fears and truly connect with any audience.

I’m your host, Tim Newman, a former college professor turned communication coach, and today, I’m joined by a truly inspiring guest: Terry L. Fossum. Terry isn’t just a survival reality show winner; he's a Wall Street Journal, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble best-selling author, a keynote speaker, and his TEDx talk has been recognized as one of the top 30 talks in the country. He’s also raised millions for charity and taught at the MBA level. Most importantly for our listeners, Terry knows a thing or two about turning nerves into powerful moments on stage, and he’s passionate about helping others do the same.

In our conversation, we dove into why real, honest, and clear communication is at the heart of succeeding under pressure, both in survival situations and in everyday life. Terry shares how being on a survival reality show, partnered with someone totally opposite from him, forced him to communicate at a whole new level. He also reveals how his experiences as a scoutmaster and military officer taught him the value of finding the good in people from all backgrounds and leading with purpose.

Here’s what we talk about in this episode:

• How survival skills and communication go hand-in-hand (with plenty of hilarious and moving stories from Terry’s reality show days)
• What to do when team conflict and stress threaten to derail your message or working relationships
• The power of owning your mistakes, giving others grace, and building credibility through authenticity
• Why emotion, not facts, drives action and how to leverage that in any speech or presentation
• The “position of power” technique to conquer nerves and step on stage with confidence every time
• The critical first five seconds: hooking your audience and making the talk about them
• Why being vulnerable and sharing your failures is actually your superpower as a communicator
• An intro to the SIMPLE framework for public speaking, and how to build talks that get standing ovations (and results!)
• Tips for landing, crafting, and performing a TEDx talk that really stands out

By the end of this episode, you’ll have actionable inspiration and tools to step into your own power as a speaker, no matter where you’re starting from. And always remember: your voice can change the world.

Don’t forget to check out Terry’s book, his podcast “The Comeback Chronicles”, and all of the resources we mention, including the free IdeaScore AI tool to score your TEDx ideas.

Thanks for listening to Speaking with Confidence. Subscribe to never miss an episode and visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for additional tips and free resources to support your journey to becoming a confident and impactful speaker.

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Have you ever thought, “I don’t have any stories to tell,” or wondered where people get those everyday stories that connect so powerfully with their audience? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive headfirst into that question and show you exactly how to spot and share the remarkable stories already hiding in your daily life.

I’m Tim Newman, your host, and as a recovering college professor turned communication coach, I know first-hand how easy it is to believe your life doesn’t serve up “epic” stories worth sharing. But the truth I’ve learned through both experience and science is that your best stories are simpler, closer, and more relatable than you ever imagined. Today, we’re flipping the script on storytelling by focusing on the small, ordinary moments that hold hidden magic when you know how to uncover and frame them.

This episode is just me no guest because I wanted to dig deep into my favorite topic: the practical art of everyday storytelling. I share personal experiences (including my own mishaps and embarrassments), research findings, and creative exercises you can use right away.

Here’s what we tackle together:

• Why chasing after “epic” stories is a waste of energy, and how your camera roll, junk drawer, and overheard conversations are loaded with potential story material.
• The science behind why small, vulnerable stories are more memorable and create stronger audience connection than polished, fact-based presentations.
• My three-step rule for quickly turning small disasters (like burning your grilled cheese or missing the bus) into engaging stories anyone can relate to.
• How to turn random objects (think broken watches or lone hairpins) into compelling story seeds using a practical three-step exercise.
• Techniques for mining everyday dialogue like coffee shop chatter for real, emotional narrative arcs, and how to practice capturing those authentic moments.
• Why sharing imperfect, unpolished stories is so powerful (spoiler: it helps your listeners remember and see themselves in your story).
• A practical challenge for you: pick five ordinary things over the next week and use the three-step micro story method to discover just how many stories your “ordinary” life truly holds.

If you’ve ever felt stuck when someone told you to “just tell a story,” by the end of this episode, you’ll have the tools and most importantly, the mindset to pull stories from even the most unremarkable corners of your day. Remember, your daily life is full of story prompts just waiting to be told, and those stories are your greatest assets as a communicator and connector.

Don’t forget to grab your free ebook, “The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them,” at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com, and check out my Formula for Public Speaking course. Thanks for joining me, your voice truly has the power to change the world. See you next time!

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Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to stand out, move up quickly in your career, and speak confidently, especially when you’re just starting out? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dig deep into the real skills that make the difference between simply doing the work and truly excelling–skills that aren’t always on the job description, but that employers look for and reward.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and a former college professor turned communication coach. My passion is helping people build the soft skills that lead to real results, whether in storytelling, public speaking, or just showing up with more confidence. This week, I’m thrilled to speak with Brianne Rush, the founder of The Independence Lab. Brianne is a powerhouse when it comes to helping Gen Z women make the leap from college to career. She rose through the ranks incredibly quickly from intern to managing editor in a year, and employee to VP in four years by learning to decode workplace dynamics, advocate for herself, and, most importantly, overcome her fear of public speaking.

We kick off the conversation with Brianne’s story—how she knew from the age of eight that she wanted to move to New York to be a journalist, and what it felt like to finally live that dream. Brianne shares what inspired her to choose New York, how her experiences in dance and performance influenced her, and why total immersion in a city full of energy was essential to her identity and early career. She explains the lessons she learned—not just about working hard and climbing the ranks, but about truly living in the moment and building genuine connections, both professional and personal.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:

• Brianne’s journey from dreaming of journalism in New York to landing and advancing in her dream role
• The importance of immersion, living in the moment, and building meaningful experiences early in your career
• Lessons about working hard, networking, and creating opportunities for yourself—even when you start at the bottom
• What employers are really looking for in hiring today: the power of soft skills like passion, curiosity, proactivity, and communication
• How to stand out authentically in interviews—using storytelling, personalized cover letters, and honest conversation instead of relying only on AI
• Practical strategies to display confidence, curiosity, and proactivity in every step of your job search
• Brianne’s advice on career advancement: emotional intelligence skills, self-awareness, handling setbacks, and the value of progress over perfection
• Navigating boundaries, learning to say no, and prioritizing projects that advance your career (with a special focus on women in the workplace)
• Gen Z’s growing focus on self-knowledge, life transitions, and ditching outdated hustle culture for a healthier approach
• The mission behind The Independence Lab and actionable resources for building emotional intelligence

If you’re looking for real advice on how to marry soft skills and confidence with actionable career moves, this episode is for you—whether you’re early in your career, managing the next big transition, or helping others find their way. Be sure to check out Brianne’s free resources and connect with us to keep leveling up your communicat

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