Uh, um, like, actually, so...Vocal Fillers have gotten a bad rap, you know? For as long as we've been speaking, we've been trying to speak better. Eliminating vocal fillers seems to be one of the first steps speakers make in improving their credibility. But what if these little interpolations aren't all bad? What if they're even helpful?

Presentation Coach & Power Rangers Superfan Katie Marshall digs into what a vocal filler is, the benefits they may bring, and how to update the fillers we use. Should we uhh, choose.

Referenced in this episode:

"Why filler words like 'um' and 'ah' are actually useful" (HBR)

"Ums, Has, and filler words: What does the research actually say?" (Extempra)

"Exploring filler words and their impact" (Emily Duvall, Aimee Robbins, Thomas Graham, and Scott Divett)

"The true story of the three little pigs" (Jon Scieszka)

"Dino Megazord First Battle" (or when all the Power Rangers join to become one monster robot Ranger)

Compelling speakers are authentic and congruent. They align the elements of their presentation or discussion to serve the same purpose. But how does that feel mid-to-post pandemic? The masks are off and the game is afoot. Let’s do this.

If your high school coach asked you to run laps but didn’t do it with you - this episode is for you. This time, your coach & host - who constantly reminds you to tap into your own vulnerability - gets vulnerable herself.

When we think communication, we think talking. But what about, as Dave Matthews Band said, the space between?

So, you have to give a presentation. In front of people. You need to be impressive while being vulnerable, successfully communicate while juggling non-verbals, verbal, and technology. Of course you’re nervous! It’s okay! Here’s why.

A paradox is a seemingly absurd or self-contradictory statement that, when investigated, may prove to be true...upon investigation. So when I share the paradox of public speaking with you, I do so knowing we have a lot to discuss. Let’s get weird.

So far, we see public speaking as something to be afraid of or something you’re naturally good at. What if there was a third way? A new option? What if that new option included authenticity, personal style...even joy? Welcome to Communication X.