Speaking With Confidence – Details, episodes & analysis

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a conversation with a complicated coworker, wondering, “How do I actually communicate with this person to get things moving forward?” In today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive right into the core question: How can you effectively communicate with complicated people—especially when, let’s be honest, we’re all complicated in our own unique ways? Hi, I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and I’m excited to guide you through practical strategies for navigating communication challenges at work. In today’s episode, I reference Ryan Leak’s insightful book, How to Work with Complicated People, which inspired much of the approach I share. We kick things off with an all-too-familiar workplace scenario: a colleague agrees to a deadline with smiles and nods, only to send a passive aggressive note a few days later that derails the project. Your instinct may be to fire back or just give up, but I explain why that reaction rarely solves the underlying problem—because the real issue is how complicated humans communicate with each other. Here’s what we covered: Why communicating with complicated people is a universal challenge The importance of translating your message for different audiences How workplace communication direction changes your approach (up, across, and down) Strategies for communicating up: focusing on outcomes and impact with leadership How to handle peer-to-peer conflict through respect, questions, and common ground Four keys for giving clear, motivating direction to your team The difference between tactical fixes and building a true communication system The foundational skill of knowing your audience and message, and why it’s essential for every workplace conversation Whether you’re reporting to a boss, negotiating with coworkers, or leading a team, you’ll leave this episode with actionable techniques to stop the cycle of miscommunication and start showing up—every single time—with clarity and confidence. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s consistent progress. Before I sign off, 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 our Formula for Public Speaking course. Thanks for listening and always remember: your voice has the power to change the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Have you ever wondered why taking action beats raw talent every single time, or how you can leverage new technology like AI without losing the heart and soul of your message? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we’re getting to the root of what it means to communicate with clarity, build your confidence as a storyteller, and stand out in our fast-changing world. I’m Tim Newman, your host, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and today I’m joined by the incredible Jim Edwards. Jim’s a true legend in the world of online business and communication, with almost three decades of experience helping entrepreneurs, coaches, speakers, and professionals get their messages heard. Not only is he a bestselling author of over three dozen books, but he’s also helped countless people find their voice and capitalize on their knowledge. Listeners will also hear actionable advice on: Finding and sharing your own stories (even if you think you don’t have any) Developing patience and delayed gratification for long-term success Building confidence as a speaker through preparation and practice Using writing as a tool for clarifying your thoughts and improving your communication Harnessing AI as a creative accelerant, not a replacement for your ideas Understanding the new role of creators and curators in a world awash with content How to recognize and communicate your true value as a coach, speaker, or business owner Whether you’re trying to write your first book, become a more compelling speaker, or navigate the digital landscape with authenticity, this episode offers real, practical steps and mindset shifts that will help you take your message and your confidence to the next level. I’m so grateful to Jim Edwards for joining me and sharing his wisdom (and contagious enthusiasm). If you’re looking for even more confidence-building resources, don’t forget to visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook and more tools to help you unleash your voice! Connect with Jim: Website: https://jimedwards.com     LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejimedwardsmethod/    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejimedwards    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimEdwardsFan X: https://x.com/RealJimEdwards YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jimEdwards TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejimedwards Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Are your words truly building the influence you want, or is there a hidden gap between what you say and how you act that's silently killing your credibility? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into the powerful truth that your real message isn’t just what comes out of your mouth—it’s what people see in your behavior, especially when no one’s watching. I open with a personal story about a tough leadership lesson: the painful disconnect between preaching innovation and risk-taking, and then acting in a way that totally undermined those values. Admitting that I was the one who once made this mistake sets the tone for radical authenticity and accountability—qualities I argue are essential if you want genuine influence. Drawing on insights from John Maxwell's Everyone Communicates, Few Connect, I explain why your PowerPoint slides and pitch-perfect scripts are just window dressing. The heart of true connection and lasting influence is living out what you communicate. I tackle the myth that communication is all about how you craft your message and show why, instead, behavior is your primary message. Your team and clients have real-time “credibility audits” running in their heads, always weighing your actions far more than your words. Here’s what I cover in this episode: The invisible gap between values and behavior that sabotages your influence A personal leadership mistake that taught me hard lessons about credibility Why your behavior communicates more than your words, especially under scrutiny How accountability—not perfection—accelerates trust and strengthens connections The step-by-step formula for owning and fixing mistakes with clients and teams A fresh take on vulnerability: how sharing learned wisdom (not present weakness) wins hearts and minds How to shift from a transactional to a partnership dynamic in any relationship The power of doing a quick “alignment audit” before key meetings to instantly increase impact Whether you’re a leader, communicator, or entrepreneur, this episode arms you with actionable tools to make your influence grow—by living your message with confidence, accountability, and authentic vulnerability. And remember, we’re always chasing progress, not perfection! As a quick update, next week’s schedule features a special guest and a holiday replay, so stay tuned. Don’t forget to grab your free eBook and check out my new book for even deeper strategies on turning your connections into true career growth. Thanks for joining me—your voice really can change your world. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Welcome to "Speaking with Confidence," the podcast that helps you unlock the power of effective public speaking. In today’s episode, we are thrilled to sit down with the dynamic duo, David Pullan and Sarah Jane McKechnie, to discuss the DNA of Engagement and explore the powerful role of storytelling in both personal and professional contexts. David and Sarah Jane bring a wealth of experience from the world of acting, having spent 30 years performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company and Paramount Pictures. Their transition into the business world led them to establish "StorySpotters," a venture dedicated to enhancing communication through effective storytelling. Their latest endeavor, "The DNA of Engagement," offers insightful techniques to improve engagement and leadership through storytelling. Overview of the Discussion: Tim, David, and Sarah Jane emphasize the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and giving back. They introduce the concept of "same paging" and discuss how it ensures cohesive understanding within teams. They elaborate on the practical application of storytelling in business, the PREP structure, and the principle of "show, don’t tell." The conversation touches on the rapid pace of modern life and how it impacts deep conversations and storytelling. They emphasize ethical storytelling and discuss the scientific, artistic, and craft elements of storytelling. The episode highlights the neuroscience behind storytelling and practical techniques like the "Dream, Nightmare, Action" (DNA) framework. Sarah Jane shares insights on making stories more engaging through context, detail, and dialogue. David and Sarah Jane also discuss their experiences of transitioning from acting to business coaching and helping clients communicate effectively. Key Takeaways: Authenticity and Vulnerability:Authenticity and vulnerability are critical when it comes to teaching, storytelling, and making genuine connections. Being open and seeking feedback helps in connecting with the audience on a deeper level. Same Paging for Cohesion:The concept of "same paging" involves turning facts into cohesive stories, ensuring that everyone within a team has a unified understanding. This technique is pivotal for achieving alignment and effective communication. PREP Structure for Effective Stories:David Pullan introduces the PREP structure (Point, Reason, Example, Takeaway), which is essential for crafting compelling stories that leave a lasting impression. For example, illustrating an individual's problem-solving skills through a personal anecdote can make their abilities more relatable and memorable. Ethical Storytelling:Ethical storytelling is imperative. The responsible use of storytelling should aim at doing good rather than manipulating the audience. Stories should reflect values and behaviors in a genuine manner to build trust and integrity. Engagement Through Details and Context:Sarah Jane emphasizes the importance of bringing listeners into the world of the story. Specific details, context (time and place), and dialogue make stories more vivid and engaging, helping listeners to form mental images and connect emotionally. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Welcome to another episode of Speaking with Confidence, the podcast dedicated to helping you master the art of effective communication. I'm Tim Newman, your host, and today we are opening up about a struggle we all deal with—imposter syndrome. In this episode, I am thrilled to welcome back Sara Lohse, a storyteller, marketer, and brand architect who helps mission-driven brands through Favorite Daughter Media. Sara is also the co-host of the "Branded" podcast and the author of "Open This Book: The Art of Storytelling for Aspiring Thought Leaders." Sara's experiences and insights make her the perfect guest to explore today’s topics, and I’m incredibly grateful to have her as our first repeat guest on the show. Our conversation traverses several foundational elements of developing confidence in communication and self-promotion. We start by recounting how Sara and I met at a pivotal point in my professional development, emphasizing the importance of seizing transformative opportunities. We then delve into the art of self-promotion, exploring the emotional barriers and practical strategies that can help overcome these challenges. We redefine what it means to be an expert, highlighting how endless curiosity and continuous learning can turn you into one. Drawing from personal experiences, we also cover the significance of adapting to new media, like transitioning from audio podcasts to video content, and the associated struggles and triumphs. Another key focus is the imposter syndrome—how it can deeply affect our professional journey and how to combat it effectively. 5 Key Takeaways: The Art of Self-Promotion:Promoting oneself can often feel daunting due to emotional hurdles and self-doubt. The key lies in building trust, maintaining a strong work ethic, and continuously preparing for opportunities. It’s about putting in the incremental effort to present your best self. Redefining Expertise:Expertise isn't just about having all the answers but about maintaining an endless curiosity and being committed to continuous learning. Tim's meticulous research and preparation are highlighted as the true markers of expertise. Adapting to New Mediums:Transitioning to different forms of media, be it stage, podcast, or video, can be challenging but rewarding. Tim's journey from an audio-only podcast to creating daily minute-long videos exemplifies the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone to grow and improve your skills. Imposter Syndrome and Self-Worth:Both Tim and Sara grapple with imposter syndrome despite their achievements. Recognizing these feelings and surrounding oneself with a supportive network are essential steps towards managing self-doubt. Sara’s journey from feeling undervalued to running her own successful business is inspirational for anyone facing similar challenges. Continuous Improvement and Authenticity:Practice makes perfect, especially when it comes to speaking and content creation. Both Sara and Tim stress the importance of continuous improvement and transparency about one’s struggles. Sharing your journey and showing your growth not only humanizes the experience but also builds authenticity and trust with your audience. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Get ready to unlock the secrets of captivating public speaking with our special guest, Conor Cunneen, famously known as the Irishman Speaks. From his early days as a nervous speaker to becoming an award-winning humorist and keynote speaker, Connor shares his incredible journey and the transformative power of humor in communication. You'll hear firsthand how storytelling and a positive attitude can elevate your personal brand and make you stand out, whether in job interviews or daily interactions. Plus, Connor's unforgettable award-winning humorous speech on customer service, featuring the contrast of San Quentin Prison, will leave you in stitches while teaching valuable lessons.But that's not all—discover how humor and attitude can revolutionize your business interactions. Connor explains the concept of using mental triggers, such as calling police cars "mobile discotheques," to create memorable messages that stick. We emphasize the importance of personal connections in business, showcasing how a good sense of humor can set a salesperson apart and lead to stronger relationships and more successful outcomes. Learn to harness the power of humor to make your communications engaging and unforgettable, ensuring that your key messages are remembered.Finally, we'll dive into practical strategies to create a positive work culture using Connor's innovative acronyms like CHAPS and LAUGH. Micro goals like giving compliments and using positive language can significantly boost motivation and team morale. The E4 brand promise—energize, educate, entertain, and be easy to work with—provides a robust framework for professional interactions. And as we explore the art of incorporating humor into presentations, you'll gain invaluable tips to keep your audience engaged and entertained. This episode is packed with laughter, insightful advice, and actionable strategies to enhance your public speaking skills and foster a positive workplace environment. Tune in for an unforgettable experience! Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Welcome to another episode of "Speaking with Confidence," the podcast that brings you practical advice and inspiring conversations to help you become a better and more confident communicator. I’m your host, Tim Newman, and today we have an exceptional guest with us, Chris Fenning. Chris is an accomplished engineer, rocket scientist, and an award-winning author known for his expertise in clear communication. Whether you're looking to enhance your public speaking skills, improve your day-to-day workplace interactions, or write more effective emails, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights. Our guest for today, Chris Fenning, has navigated through multiple industries and countries, bringing a wealth of experience in both technical fields and communication. From being a rocket scientist to an expert in communication, Chris has authored several award-winning books, including "The First Minute," which focuses on the importance of being clear and concise in communication. His practical frameworks and experiences provide a unique perspective on overcoming fears and mastering the art of effective communication. In this episode, we dive deep into various aspects of communication—both verbal and written. Chris shares his personal journey of overcoming public speaking anxiety and the transformation he underwent to become a confident communicator. We discuss the role of scheduling theory and project management in planning events and the significance of clear communication in this context. Chris introduces valuable frameworks like Context, Intent, and Key Message, as well as Goal, Problem, Solution (GPS), to help you frame your messages effectively. We also touch on the psychological reasons behind excessive information sharing and how to overcome them. Lastly, we emphasize the critical role of active listening and provide tips for writing impactful emails. Key Takeaways Framing Your Communication:Chris emphasizes the importance of framing in communication. The Context, Intent, and Key Message framework is a powerful tool to ensure your message is clear and relevant to the audience. For instance, in job interviews, compressing complex information into a succinct answer can make a significant impact. Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety:Chris shares his personal fears of public speaking and creating videos. By setting a challenge for himself to create 101-minute videos, he practiced consistently and eventually overcame his fears. Repetition and practice in small steps are key to becoming a confident speaker. Effective Written Communication:Understanding how people read large bodies of text is crucial. Chris mentions that people often read in an "f" shape, focusing on the first line and skimming downward. To make emails more effective, use informative subject lines, repeat the topic and purpose, and label questions clearly. Balancing Team Dynamics and Communication:Effective communication is not just about individual performance but also about how well team members coordinate and cooperate. Tim shares insights from his experience in the sports industry, emphasizing the interconnectedness of different departments and the need for effective interdepartmental communication. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Welcome back to another episode of "Speaking with Confidence," the podcast dedicated to helping you conquer public speaking anxieties and find your voice. In today's episode, our host Tim Newman sits down with Scott Allan, confidence coach, author, and mindset strategist who has transformed his own life by embracing failures and translating them into opportunities for growth. We'll discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, the philosophy of "failing big," and actionable strategies to keep procrastination at bay, equipping you with the tools to take ownership of your career and personal development. Scott Allan is a celebrated author whose works have been published in 16 languages, helping thousands of readers overcome self-doubt and cultivate a mindset geared toward success. With over 10,000 hours invested in confidence development and mindset mastery training, Scott brings a wealth of experience and practical wisdom to our discussion. He also runs websites like scottallenbooks.com and scottallenpublishing.com, where you can find his latest publications and resources aimed at personal growth. In this episode, Tim and Scott cover a wide range of topics central to personal and professional development. They begin with a deep dive into imposter syndrome, exploring how it affects young professionals and the importance of recognizing that everyone is hired for a reason. Scott candidly shares his own struggles and triumphs, recounting his experiences with career challenges, massive failures, and the incredible value of learning from mistakes.  Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace Imposter Syndrome: Imposter syndrome often stems from a deeply ingrained fear of failure and feeling unqualified. It's important to remember that if you were chosen for a job or an opportunity, there’s a reason behind it. Acknowledge your capabilities and embrace the chance to share your input. 2. Fail Big and Learn: Failure should be viewed not as a setback, but an essential part of the learning process. Scott’s narrative about the million-dollar mistake and his own costly work error underscored the importance of facing failures head-on, learning from them, and moving forward with greater awareness and preparedness. 3. Intentional Action Over Habit Building: Overcoming procrastination is rooted in taking small, intentional actions daily rather than focusing on building habits. By making decisive moves and celebrating small wins, you gradually build confidence and trust in your capabilities. 4. Shift Your Mindset: Adopting a positive mindset can significantly alter the way you approach challenges and opportunities. Scott’s transformation from a negative to a positive outlook, reinforced by reading, listening to motivational content, and turning his apartment into a vision board, propelled him toward achieving his goals abroad. 5. Be Authentic and Vulnerable: Authenticity and honesty in communication, especially in public speaking, can alleviate pressures to impress and control outcomes. Scott emphasizes that people rarely think about your performance as much as you do, and being genuine can help in navigating fears of rejection and judgment. Be sure to visit scottallenbooks.com and scottallenpublishing.com for more insights and resources. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Unlock the secrets to captivating your audience and transforming your presentations in our latest episode of Speaking with Confidence. Visual storytelling guru Emily Schneider joins us to share her journey from creating a Sweet 16 invitation to becoming a leading expert in presentation design and marketing. Learn how she turns complex information into visually compelling stories, and discover her powerful "less is more" strategy. Get ready to simplify your slides, choose impactful colors and fonts, and maintain your audience's focus with Emily's insider tips.Discover how to make your presentations unforgettable by focusing on visual consistency and strategic design. Emily explains why maintaining a simple, consistent look across your slides can dramatically enhance information retention. She shares practical exercises that guide you in cutting down unnecessary content, ensuring your visuals support rather than distract from your message. By emphasizing key messages and using visuals effectively, you will leave a lasting impression on your audience.From mastering animations to the strategic use of colors, Emily covers all the essentials for elevating your presentation game. Plus, explore the role of AI tools like ChatGPT in content creation while keeping your unique voice. Emily's insights on understanding your audience and designing with clear intent will empower you to make your presentations more engaging. Don’t miss her downloadable guide with top tips, available on our website, and join our community for more resources to boost your public speaking confidence.1. Good Slide Design is Essential: Effective slide design keeps the audience engaged and aids memory retention. Bad design stands out negatively, while good design is subtle, enhancing the presenter's delivery and the overall message. 2. Consistency and Visuals Matter: Our brains retain significantly more information through visual design (65%) compared to purely content-based information (10-20%). Emily shares tips for maintaining visual consistency such as using uniform fonts, bullet treatments, logo placement, and color schemes. 3. *Less is More" with Animations: Overwhelming presentations with excessive animations can be distracting. Emily and Tim both advocate for strategic use of animations to highlight specific points and suggest simple transitions to maintain engagement without overpowering the content. 4. Simplicity and Color Usage: Simplifying slides by minimizing text and using visuals can create a stronger connection with the audience. Effective use of color, with 2 to 3 varied shades, enhances readability and interest, while caution is advised against overwhelming use of colors. 5. Importance of Storytelling: Presentations should focus on telling a compelling story rather than conveying a plethora of facts. People are more likely to remember stories, and simplicity helps maintain this narrative, making it easier for the audience to connect and retain the information. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a text Welcome back to Speaking with Confidence, the podcast that empowers you to become a better public speaker by unlocking the potential of effective communication. In today's episode, our host Tim Newman sits down with the incredible Sara Lohse. Sara, the owner of Favorite Daughter Media and the author of "Open This Book: The Art of Storytelling for Aspiring Thought Leaders," joins us to dive deep into the art and science of storytelling. Together, they explore the importance of sharing personal stories, the power of authenticity, and how embracing vulnerability can create meaningful human connections. Sara Lohse is an acclaimed storyteller, thought leader, and the visionary behind Favorite Daughter Media. She is also the author of "Open This Book: The Art of Storytelling for Aspiring Thought Leaders." Sara joins us to share her insights on the value of personal storytelling and how it can transform both personal and professional communication. Her expertise in marketing and her candid experiences make her the perfect guide for anyone looking to improve their storytelling skills. In this episode, Tim Newman and Sara Lohse have an in-depth conversation about the multifaceted nature of storytelling. They discuss the significance of sharing personal stories and the impact it can have on both the storyteller and the audience. Sara highlights key elements from her book and offers practical tips on crafting compelling narratives. The conversation also touches on overcoming impostor syndrome, the role of authenticity in leadership, and the balance between striving for success and maintaining personal happiness. Sara shares her own experiences, including dealing with ADHD and the challenges of staying true to oneself in a professional setting. Tim and Sara emphasize the importance of relatability in storytelling and the necessity for businesses to innovate and adapt. Key Takeaways: 1. The Power of Personal Stories: Sara stresses that personal stories hold immense power in connecting with others. These stories don’t need to be grand or headline-worthy; even everyday experiences can hold valuable lessons and resonate deeply with audiences. 2. Authenticity and Vulnerability: Both Tim and Sara emphasize the significance of being authentic and embracing vulnerability. Whether in personal or professional settings, sharing failures and mistakes rather than just highlight reels can help build genuine connections. 3. Overcoming Impostor Syndrome: The discussion addresses the common issue of impostor syndrome and the cultural reluctance to celebrate personal achievements. Sara advises that it's crucial to acknowledge and own one's accomplishments to foster a healthier self-image. 4. Crafting Compelling Stories: Practical storytelling tips from Sara include having a compelling and unexpected ending, crafting stories to fit different environments, and using a hook at the beginning to capture the audience’s attention. She also discusses how knowing the ending upfront helps her given her ADHD. 5. Value of Support Systems: The episode underscores the importance of having family, friends, and colleagues as support systems. Tim and Sara talk about the need for kindness towards oneself, having a network of cheerleaders, and prioritizing happiness and relationships alongside professional success. Support the show Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices