In this enlightening episode of the Active Life Podcast, host Larry welcomes speech coach Myles Usher Doyle for a deep dive into the art and science of meaningful conversation. With over 13 years of experience coaching people to reclaim authentic communication, Myles shares how modern technology has stripped away vital components of human interaction—and how we can restore them. From body language and posture to finding our natural voice, Myles discusses the foundational elements that lead to better speaking and richer relationships.The conversation explores the nuanced importance of small talk, its role in breaking conversational tension, and how even introverts can step into confident communication without losing authenticity. Myles offers practical frameworks—like embracing silence, refining posture, and rehearsing aloud—that help individuals present themselves powerfully whether on stage or in a one-on-one meeting. They also examine the cultural variances in public speaking anxiety and how storytelling becomes an empowering act of self-expression.Wrapping with insights on storytelling, bedtime rituals, and the role of poetry in vocal training, Myles connects classic communication practices with modern professional demands. If you’ve ever felt nervous in front of a group, misunderstood in conversation, or lost your voice in the noise of digital communication, this episode will give you the tools—and inspiration—to speak up with confidence.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction to Myles Usher Doyle00:50 - Why Speaking Skills Still Matter02:00 - Small Talk as a Conversational Tool04:25 - Managing Conflict with Civil Conversation06:05 - Authenticity vs Persona in Presenting09:30 - Coaching Quiet and Introverted Speakers14:40 - Confidence, Posture & Mental Health20:30 - Speaking in the Digital Age25:10 - Finding Focus and Being Present29:40 - Silence as a Tool for Authority32:30 - Social Media & Punchy Communication36:00 - Why One-on-One Coaching Works42:00 - Cultural Differences in Speaking Anxiety45:00 - Storytelling Influences & Classic Cinema48:30 - Where to Begin as a Speaker50:30 - Rehearsal Techniques and Rituals54:00 - Poetry and Children’s Stories as Practice59:00 - Audiobooks and Vocabulary Growth01:01:00 - Final Thoughts and TakeawaysFind Myles on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/speakwellcoaching/This is the Active Life Podcast where two fitness professionals with decades of experience tell their stories and hope to give you some tips and insights into what it takes to be successful for you and your clients.Follow Larry Gaier - https://www.instagram.com/larry_thehuman/Follow Cody Ringle - https://www.instagram.com/cody_ringle/Follow our main channel - https://www.youtube.com/theactivelifeActive Life Professionals help people who won’t take “if it hurts, don’t do it” for an answer. Want to learn how to get out of pain without giving up your active life, go to https://activelifeprofessional.com/find-a-pro-near-me/ Are you a coach or trainer who wants to learn how to build a fulfilling coaching business helping people get out of pain without giving up their active life? Head to https://activelifeprofessional.com/al-p-coaching-program/ Follow Dr. Sean Pastuch @ https://www.instagram.com/drseanpastuch/ Follow Active Life RX @ https://www.instagram.com/activeliferx/ Follow Active Life Professional @ https://www.instagram.com/activelifeprofessional