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Have you ever completely blanked out during a presentation or felt your confidence collapse in front of an audience? If so, you’re far from alone and in this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle exactly how to recover from those “crash and burn” public speaking moments and get your confidence back on track.

I’m Tim Newman, and as someone who once threw up before giving my first college presentation, I know firsthand how devastating public speaking anxiety can feel. This week, I’m drawing on both scientific studies and coaching experience to help you move forward from setbacks and rebuild your core presentation skills, one step at a time.

I’m going deep into the mechanics of bouncing back from a public speaking “freeze.” I break down why our brains sometimes fail us under stress, how anxiety is triggered both by internal self-esteem and external factors like the room or audience, and most importantly, what you can do to start the recovery process today.

Here’s what I cover in this episode:

• Understanding why you might suddenly forget your words or lose your flow during a speech and why it’s usually a stress-driven system breakdown rather than a lack of knowledge.
• The five interconnected parts of effective public speaking: content mastery, physical control, audience awareness, emotional regulation, and delivery mechanics.
• Real-world examples of how even highly skilled professionals can “crash,” and the neuroscience behind how adrenaline and panic disrupt your memory.
• How confidence and public speaking ability reinforce one another, plus how environmental factors (like room layout and audience engagement) can shape your anxiety level in real time.
• Practical steps to identify exactly where you tend to stumble using a technique I recommend to all my clients: recording and reviewing your last few talks to pinpoint specific breakdowns.
• The value of gradual, targeted practice to rebuild your skills, including insights from virtual reality training studies that show even small, structured exposures lead to measurable improvement.
• My recommended “exposure ladder” for resetting your confidence: from practicing alone to speaking in front of a small, trusted audience, and then slowly simulating real-life settings.
• An evidence-based way to turn setbacks into learning opportunities using structured reflection, journaling, and a four-step mental reframe to immediately convert mistakes into specific action steps.
• How to design your speech outlines to lower your risk of freezing, and why preparing the opening lines for common questions in Q&A makes a big difference.
• The importance of brief, focused daily practice and getting specific peer feedback to reinforce positive changes and accelerate growth.
• A quick three-day reset challenge you can try right away to get yourself unstuck and moving forward.

Don’t forget to check out speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com after the show to grab your free eBook, “Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them,” and to learn about my full Formula for Public Speaking course.

Remember, your voice matters. With the right approach, you can recover and come back even stronger. Thanks for joining me and I’ll talk to you next time!

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What does it really take for young professionals—especially student athletes—to build true resilience and open lines of communication in today’s high-pressure world? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into this crucial question that’s affecting students, educators, coaches, and leaders nationwide.

I’m Tim Newman, your host and a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Today, I’m honored to bring you a candid and impactful conversation with Kenisha Brown-Alexander, a true trailblazer in the sports industry and the founder of the Brainerd Tomorrow Foundation. With a background that spans leading roles for major organizations like the Miami Dolphins, the Super Bowl Committee, and the Orange Bowl Committee, Kenisha also serves as a certified life coach, adjunct professor, and the creator of the Game Changers United program.

Throughout our conversation, Kenisha and I address:

• The shifting landscape of communication skills among young professionals and why intentional teaching of these skills matters more than ever
• The logistical and interpersonal challenges of managing thousands of volunteers at a major event like the Super Bowl
• The critical role of resilience and faith in overcoming personal trauma—and how sports can provide a sense of purpose and belonging
• How and why Kenisha launched Game Changers United, and the impact it’s having in supporting student athletes’ mental health
• The realities of suicide and mental health crises among college students, and strategies to strengthen support systems on campuses
• Why it’s our job as leaders to reach out, show vulnerability, and invite connection
• The need for early self-discovery and helping young people uncover their “why,” so they can build lasting resilience

If you’re an educator, coach, administrator, parent, or simply someone who cares about the next generation’s well-being, this episode will give you insights, strategies, and real stories to help you foster greater communication, resilience, and support—on and off the field.

For more on Kenisha’s work or to bring Game Changers United to your campus, you can find her on Instagram at @KenishaNichelle, on LinkedIn as Kenisha Brown-Alexander, or visit gamechangersunited.com.

As always, remember—your voice has the power to change the world. Thanks for listening to Speaking with Confidence.

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Have you ever wondered why some interviewers can draw out powerful, authentic stories from their guests, while others get nothing but surface-level, forgettable responses? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into the art and science of interviewing not as the one answering questions, but as the one skillfully guiding the conversation.

As your host, Tim Newman, a former college professor turned communication coach, I take you behind the scenes to reveal how top interviewers turn every exchange into a meaningful dialogue. While I typically invite guests onto the show, today it’s just you and me, focusing on a transformative communication technique that can immediately elevate your interviewing skills, whether you’re creating content, leading teams, or deepening everyday conversations.

By the end of this episode, you’ll be equipped to:

• Use the mirroring technique to draw out richer, more authentic responses
• Combine mirroring with careful labeling to acknowledge and explore emotional undercurrents
• Pause intentionally to give your guest space and show you’re listening
• Avoid presumptive labeling and instead use safe, observation-based language
• Adjust your approach for virtual interviews, from camera placement to audio checks and bridging gaps during technical hiccups
• Practice with concrete phrases and real-life scenarios so you can implement these tools right away

I challenge you to try mirroring and labeling in your next conversation, and notice the difference it makes. Share your observations with us. Progress over perfection is the goal.

And don’t forget, you can grab my free ebook, “Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them”, or sign up for my Formula for Public Speaking course at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com. As always, remember: your voice is power. Keep practicing, keep growing, and I’ll see you next time!

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How do you rebuild confidence and communication skills after life-changing events, or simply grow your presence in a world filled with digital noise? That’s the big question we dig into on this week’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, and I think you’ll walk away with new tools and a lot to think about—whether you’re tackling a major transition or just wanting to level up your everyday communication.

In this episode, I’m joined by Meaghan Benjamin, an executive communication coach who’s spent nearly 20 years helping people—from head and neck cancer survivors to Fortune 500 executives—find their voices and connect with impact. With a background in speech and hearing science and psychology, plus a neuroscience-informed approach to leadership development, Meaghan brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her story is truly unique; she started by supporting patients who, after cancer, had to relearn how to speak and present themselves to the world in totally new ways. Through that work, Meaghan realized that building communication confidence is a universal journey, whether you’re recovering from trauma or trying to command the boardroom.

We're talking about:

• How to rebuild confidence and presence after major life changes—and why small goals matter
• Mindset shifts that are as crucial for executives as they are for trauma survivors
• Why 55% of communication is nonverbal, and how to harness your gestures and tone, especially on Zoom
• The unique challenges of digital communication and how our “lens” filters written messages
• The growing pressure of instant digital responses, especially among younger generations, and its impact on real connection
• How to help kids and young adults practice the soft skills critical to adult success—plus stories from both our families and classrooms
• The “No Feel Do” framework, and why knowing how you want your audience to feel and act shifts every conversation
• Why disagreement doesn’t have to mean disrespect, and how to keep 80% of shared ground at the center of your relationships
• Practical advice for handling meetings, tough questions, and those “pivot” moments that can rattle new professionals
• The importance of in-person networking, informational interviews, and getting comfortable being uncomfortable, especially early in your career
• Meaghan’s unique Agile Communication methodology, how it blends science and art, and its application to both presentations and day-to-day leadership
• Studio Re Invent’s new AI-powered communication coach Sage, and how technology can actually help you develop deeper, more human skills—when used intentionally

Whether you’re a leader, educator, parent, or someone just looking to boost your communication mojo, Meaghan offers insights and tools you can put into action today. Stick around to hear how confidence is built—not magically materialized—and why practicing in real-life, sometimes awkward moments is the best training ground there is.

You can learn more about Meaghan and Studio Re Invent at studioreinvent.com, find additional resources on our Speaking with Confidence Podcast website, and check out our free eBook and upcoming public speaking course.

As always, remember: your voice has the power to change the world. Let’s get out there

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Have you ever wondered why you keep repeating the same mistakes, even when you work hard and accumulate experience? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dig deep into a powerful question: what’s really holding you back from growing as a communicator and professional, and how can you break the cycle and accelerate your progress for real?

Hi, I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and your host on this journey toward showing up with confidence in every conversation. On today’s episode (inspired by last week’s impactful discussion with Danielle Droitsch about aligning self-confidence with your authentic self), I unpack a concept that hits home for many of us: the difference between simply remembering what happened and truly reflecting on it.

Here’s an overview of what we’ll dive into:

• Why passive reminiscing (just replaying past events in your head) isn’t enough and actually keeps you on a treadmill of old mistakes.
• John Maxwell’s Law of Reflection, which shows that evaluated experience, not just experience alone, drives genuine improvement.
• The four-step “Four I’s” framework for effective reflection: Investigation, Incubation, Illumination, and Illustration. I explain each with practical examples of how to dig deeper, create space to process, capture insights, and document them so they’ll guide your next steps.
• How to use Maxwell’s personal awareness questions to surface real patterns standing in the way of your growth.
• Why scheduling time for reflection, documenting what you learn, and acting on those lessons is the fastest way to compounding progress.
• The difference between growth that is intentional, structured, and measurable, versus “busyness” that leads nowhere, and how the top 1% protect their reflection habit like any high-priority task.
• Actionable advice on setting up your own reflection rhythm using daily, weekly, quarterly, and annual check-ins (with specific time recommendations and real-life examples).
• My challenge to you: block ten minutes today for structured reflection and see how quickly you can start gaining new insights.
  
  If you’re eager to turn your past into a resource for future success rather than just a collection of memories, this episode lays out the step-by-step blueprint to get you there. I invite you to try the system for a week, observe the difference, and remember, we’re seeking progress, not perfection.
  
  Don’t forget, you can grab your free eBook, “The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them,” at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com, or register for the Formula for Public Speaking course.
  
  Your voice has power, so let’s use it, and let’s grow together. I’ll talk to you next time.

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Have you ever found yourself feeling unfulfilled at work and wondered if it’s really possible to find both purpose and confidence in your career? If so, you’re not alone, and today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence may have the answers you’ve been searching for.

On this episode, I welcome Danielle Droitsch, an executive and leadership coach who helps high-achieving professionals rediscover their superpowers, reclaim well-being, and approach their work with confidence and purpose. Danielle’s story is one so many of us can relate to: after building a successful career as a senior leader at a nonprofit, she experienced burnout that changed her perspective on career satisfaction and life itself. Now, she helps others create the fulfilling work experiences they deserve.

Here’s what we covered in today’s episode:

• Danielle’s personal journey from burnout to a fulfilling second career
• The emotional signals (like boredom and irritability) that indicate something deeper is off in your work life
• How to separate your job from your identity and why that matters
• The importance of asking “Who am I?” and how to start finding your unique superpower
• Insights from new research on human flourishing and why young people are struggling
• The role of real, in-person connection for well-being
• Practical steps for unplugging, reconnecting with yourself, and finding what truly energizes you
• Why soft skills (communication, problem-solving, impact) drive both advancement and confidence
• Common pitfalls for young professionals and students and how to avoid them
• The link between self-awareness, confidence, and showing up authentically in every aspect of life

Whether you’re in the middle of a career transition, supporting young people, or simply looking to feel more confident at work, this episode offers relatable stories, actionable insights, and the encouragement to step back, reassess, and reconnect with yourself and others.

To connect with Danielle, check out time4wellbeing.com (that’s “four” as the number!), and look for her free training on finding fulfilling work. 

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What’s the real secret to making an introduction that people actually remember—and want to follow up with? If you’ve ever found yourself rattling off your name, job title, and a couple of generic facts only to watch the other person’s eyes glaze over, you’re not alone. In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I break down why most 30-second introductions fall flat, and how to craft one that instantly sets you apart.

Today we’re focusing on one of the most overlooked skills in professional communication: the art (and science) of a memorable introduction. There’s no featured guest this time—it's just me, drawing on my experience as a communication coach and former college professor, to walk you through a research-backed formula that will transform the way you present yourself in every first impression.

Here’s what we covered in today’s episode:

• Why most standard introductions get ignored (and the science behind first impressions)
• The role of nonverbal communication—what people notice first and why it matters
• The primacy effect and how what you say first shapes how you’re remembered
• Shifting from job titles to value-driven statements
• The three-part Confident Connection Formula: hook, value statement, and conversation starter
• Real-world examples of transforming forgettable intros into memorable ones
• The importance of vocal modulation, body language, and strategic pauses
• Practical steps for refining your own introduction
• Why a great introduction isn’t about perfection—it’s about making progress

Whether you’re networking, interviewing, or just meeting someone new, these skills help you show up with clarity and confidence from your very first word. Don’t forget to grab your free ebook at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com, check out my upcoming course, and keep practicing—because your voice truly has the power to change your world.

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What does it really take to turn your personal struggles and lived experience into authentic confidence when you communicate? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I sit down with Cesar Cardona—public speaker, podcast co-host, and mindfulness educator—to uncover how resilience, mindfulness, and embracing your unique story are foundational not only to personal growth, but also to becoming a powerful communicator.

Cesar’s journey is anything but ordinary. Growing up navigating conflict in a home of deep cultural and political divides, he openly shares how early trauma shaped his perspective but also planted the seeds for resilience. We discuss how he learned to move forward despite adversity, drawing on the strengths of both his parents—combining book smarts and street smarts—and how everyone can find something valuable in their experiences, no matter how tough.

A turning point came for Cesar at a Joseph Campbell roundtable event, when—despite never aspiring to speak publicly—he took a risk, shared his thoughts, and was suddenly handed a life-changing speaking opportunity. This honest look at “accidentally” launching a public speaking career is both inspiring and packed with practical lessons for anyone wanting to share their voice but feeling hesitant or nervous.

We also break down what it’s really like to speak in front of others (hint: nerves are normal and even useful), and why storytelling doesn’t require a big dramatic narrative—just a willingness to share honestly and connect on a human level. Listening, asking questions, leaning on friends for support, and being accountable (while offering grace to ourselves and others) are all covered, along with some thoughts on the role of AI and technology in communication today.

In this conversation, you’ll hear us talk about:

• Using mindfulness and self-awareness to manage nerves and uncertainty
• The importance of moving forward, even when it’s uncomfortable
• Building a supportive network and the courage to ask for help
• Why listening is just as important as speaking
• Embracing storytelling as a simple, daily part of communication—not just a buzzword

If you’ve ever doubted your ability to communicate confidently or wondered if your history is a liability, Cesar’s story will assure you that your best voice comes from embracing the whole of who you are.

For more on Cesar or to hear his music project, check out CaesarCardona.com, and don’t forget to grab your free resources at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com. Your story—and your voice—matter.

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Have you ever walked away from a conversation thinking, “That could’ve gone better…”?

In this solo episode of Speaking With Confidence, host Tim Newman explores how asking better questions can unlock more effective communication, stronger interpersonal skills, and, believe it or not, career-changing opportunities.

Inspired by his conversation with communication coach Michelle Schafer, Tim shares how simple shifts in our approach to networking, interviews, and public presentations can turn small talk into a powerful connection. Spoiler alert: it’s not about having all the right answers, it’s about asking the right questions.

You’ll learn how thoughtful questions like “What energizes you about your work right now?” create deeper and more authentic conversations than the typical “So, what do you do?” You’ll also discover how preparation, just 15-20 minutes of intentional research, can skyrocket your confidence before any public speaking opportunity or job interview.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• How to use communication skills and curiosity to create meaningful conversations
• Why better questions matter more than polished answers
• Practical ways to prepare with purpose before a public presentation or interview
• Tips for following up in a way that builds strong professional relationships
• Why soft skills like listening and intentional follow-up are your secret career superpowers

Whether you're navigating a job search, trying to overcome imposter syndrome, or simply looking to become a more powerful communicator, this episode is packed with practical tools to help you communicate effectively and with confidence.

Listen now and start your journey toward personal development and professional growth—one thoughtful question at a time.

Grab your free resource: timnewmanspeaks.com
Download The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them and register for the Formula for Public Speaking course today!

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What if charisma isn’t about being magnetic... but about being real?

In this episode of Speaking With Confidence, I sit down with therapist, coach, and leadership expert Richard Reid to explore what truly makes someone a powerful communicator. Spoiler alert: it’s not about being the most dynamic speaker or the loudest voice in the room.

Richard unpacks the difference between charm and charisma and why one builds trust while the other often erodes it. We talk about how presence, authenticity, and curiosity form the foundation of effective communication skills, especially in today’s tech-saturated world.

We also dig into leadership communication, the power of storytelling techniques, and how younger professionals can build public speaking confidence without pretending to be someone they’re not. If you’ve ever wrestled with imposter syndrome, felt drained by Zoom meetings, or thought “I just don’t have that ‘it’ factor,” this one’s for you.

Here’s what we cover:

• Why authentic charisma beats performative charm every time
• The impact of technology on our presence and emotional regulation
• The leadership advantage of storytelling and vulnerability
• How to build connection by listening for emotions, not just facts
• Why confidence in public speaking starts with owning your story
• And Richard’s refreshingly practical advice for anyone looking to grow

Connect with Richard:

http://linkedin/in/richard-reid

www.richard-reid.com

www.pinnacletherapy.co.uk

www.pinnaclewellbeing.co.uk

Ready to unlock your own charisma and become the communicator people remember? Visit timnewmanspeaks.com to grab your free e-book Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them and start transforming your communication today.

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