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Speaking With Confidence: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Tim Newman
Are you ready to overcome imposter syndrome and become a powerful communicator? Whether you're preparing for a public presentation, sharpening your communication skills, or looking to elevate your personal and professional development, this podcast is your ultimate resource for powerful communication. The Speaking with Confidence podcast will help tackle the real challenges that hold you back, from conquering stage fright to crafting impactful storytelling and building effective communication habits. Every episode is designed to help you communicate effectively, strengthen your soft skills, and connect with any audience. With expert insights, practical strategies, and relatable examples, you’ll learn how to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a professional preparing for a high-stakes presentation, a student navigating a public speaking class, or someone simply looking to enhance their interpersonal skills, this podcast has the tools to empower you, all with a bit of humor. Join us each week as we break down what it takes to inspire and influence through communication. It’s time to speak with confidence, captivate your audience, and make your voice heard!
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- 1 weeks ago58 min
Why We Struggle to Change Minds: The Psychology of Persuasion and Political Polarization
Why is it so hard to change someone’s mind even when you think the facts are on your side? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we go far beneath the surface of disagreements to understand what’s really happening in our minds when we argue about politics, policies, or any hot-button issue. I’m Tim Newman, former college professor turned communication coach, and I believe the conversations we avoid are often the ones with the most potential for growth. Today, I’m joined by JonRobert Tartaglione, a world-renowned psychologist, behavioral scientist, and founder of Influence 51. JonRobert has devoted his career to decoding what truly motivates people, specializing in the science of persuasion and strategic communication. He works with clients across the globe, teaching them how our beliefs are formed, why changing them can feel so threatening, and what it actually takes to create real dialogue. Early in our conversation, JonRobert turned my understanding upside down by sharing twin studies that reveal political orientation isn’t just about the information we’re exposed to or the arguments we hear; it may be partially rooted in our biology. Whether or not you’re born to be a liberal or conservative isn’t set in stone, but our genetic predispositions can set our “default slider,” influencing which ideology will feel most intuitive or natural to us, even before life experience and social context do their work. But if it’s not just about nature versus nurture, what lies beneath our deeply held convictions? JonRobert walked us through the three layers where real disagreement lives: first, how we define human nature (fixed or improvable?); second, how we see the world (a dangerous, competitive place or a cooperative, egalitarian one?); and third, what we believe about right and wrong (is morality about avoiding harm, or actively helping others?). These philosophical frameworks often go unspoken, yet they’re the hidden roots of our loudest debates. You’ll also hear: Why perceived polarization is often worse than the reality How “conversational receptiveness” can be contagious and open doors to true discussion The science behind why trying to “push” someone only results in pushback, not persuasion An astonishing study where AI chatbots accomplished what most humans struggle to do: opening conspiracy theorists to change The evolutionary drive to belong, and why group loyalty is so hardwired into us Why real dialogue means approaching conversations like you could be wrong, not just hoping the other person is The power and risk of questioning your identity or group beliefs, and how that keeps most people from even considering changing their minds in public JonRobert also opens up about what in his field he’s least certain about, reminds us that humans aren’t as rational as we like to think, and gives examples from his own life about how changing your environment can fundamentally reshape your perspective. If you want to move past surface-level debates and actually talk to (not just at) people who see the world differently, this episode is for you. Join us as we break down the science, the psychology, and the real-life practice of persuasive and receptive communication. Connect with JonRobert: Website: https://www.influence51.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonrobert-tartaglione-ph-d-21b26770/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 2 weeks ago17 min
Stop Wasting Feedback: The Sport-Inspired Method for Lasting Improvement
What if the feedback you’re most proud of giving is actually doing more harm than good? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into why so much of the feedback we give ends up bouncing right off people or worse, making things even less effective and what to do instead. As a recovering college professor turned communication coach, I’ve seen firsthand how even the most well-intentioned feedback can sometimes make no difference at all. You know that feeling you have a tough conversation that feels like it really landed. There’s eye contact, nodding, even a grateful “thank you.” But fast forward a few weeks and you’re back in the same conversation, just more frustrated. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. There’s no guest joining me for this solo episode. Instead, I’m sharing the research-backed reason why feedback often fails, plus a simple, actionable framework—the Game Film Method—that you can use immediately with your team, your peers, or even on yourself. During the episode, I break down why feedback can actually make performance worse more than a third of the time, based on decades of research. I’ll walk you through the two main reasons it fails (vagueness and poor aim), explain why focusing too much on the past kills motivation, and show you how sports teams have perfected a better approach in the film room. Here’s what I cover in this episode: Why feedback often backfires, according to research by Kluger and DeNisi The two habits that sabotage effective feedback: vagueness and making it personal rather than task-focused The problem with rehashing past mistakes and how it hurts motivation How the Game Film Method borrowed from sports coaching helps shift feedback from personal critique to actionable improvement The three-step process: watch the play, name one thing, and run it again with real-life examples The importance of focusing on behaviors and their immediate impact, instead of guessing motives or stacking corrections How to ask for “game film” feedback on yourself to accelerate your own growth The power of being timely and specific and why annual reviews are a missed opportunity Using the method not just for correction, but to reinforce what’s working, too By the end of this episode, you’ll have a simple framework that transforms feedback from something people dread into a collaborative conversation that actually leads to change. Remember: It’s not about getting it perfect; it’s about aiming for progress with each conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 2 weeks ago57 min
Unlocking Executive Presence: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Speaking with Confidence
What if what's holding you back from confident communication isn't a lack of skill, but an old story you've been telling yourself? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dig deep into the real roots of communication anxiety and discover why confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it's something you build, one small step at a time. As your host, Tim Newman, I’m excited to welcome executive communication coach, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of Uplevel Communication, Mike Acker. Mike’s journey is both remarkable and relatable: he overcame a speech impediment as a child, had to learn to communicate in a new language when he moved to Mexico, and eventually reinvented himself as a professional speaker and coach. His story is living proof that anyone can become a confident communicator no matter where you begin. In our conversation, Mike and I explored the mindset barriers that stop even talented speakers from reaching their goals. We discussed why being “good enough” in one context doesn’t always mean you’re ready for the next stage, and the difference between being a good speaker and being a good communicator. Mike shared powerful analogies, like how compliments about a homemade hamburger don’t mean it’s ready to be sold in a restaurant, reminding us that comfort in one arena doesn’t guarantee success in another. Here’s a look at what we covered in this episode: The real difference between skill and confidence in communication Mike Acker’s personal journey from speech impediment to professional speaker Why natural talent (proclivity) and practice are both important and why practice always wins How being a “good speaker” in one setting doesn’t mean you’re ready for the next challenge The dangers of arrogance and apathy, and why caring for your audience creates energy and impact How past wounds like ridicule in childhood or harsh criticism can hold you back, and how to identify and address them The framework for starting and deepening conversations at networking events, including how to shift from feeling like an outsider to making real connections Why “being more interested than interesting” is the underrated secret to building community and relationships The impact you can have by getting involved locally and serving your community Mike’s value-need-action framework for persuasive communication in the workplace Highlights from Mike’s bestselling books, Speak with No Fear and Speak with Confidence, and practical ways to use their lessons right away Why action, not just knowledge leads to real transformation as a communicator Whether you want to get better at conversations, ace your next big talk, or finally overcome the fear that’s holding you back, you’ll find both inspiration and action steps in this episode. I’m grateful to Mike Acker for sharing his story and wisdom, and I hope you’ll take one idea from this conversation and put it into practice today. Remember, your voice has the power to change the world one conversation at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 3 weeks ago18 min
How to Turn Every One-on-One Into a Step Toward Promotion
Have you ever walked out of a one-on-one with your boss feeling like you just gave a verbal status report, but nothing really moved forward for you or your career? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we’re tackling one of the most underused and most valuable meetings in your entire week: the one-on-one with your manager. I break down why these touchpoints often get wasted, and how you can turn them into your best shot at getting the recognition, resources, and growth you deserve. I’ve seen it happen again and again with the people I coach: You work hard, you want more responsibility or a raise, but when you get 30 minutes of your boss’s time, you end up listing what’s on track and what’s been checked off and that’s it. I used to believe the work speaks for itself, but as I’ve learned (the hard way), it simply doesn’t. If you don’t use your one-on-one to tell your side of the story, something else will fill that space. This episode is a solo one just me, sharing the hard-won strategies that help professionals go from being invisible to being seen and valued. We’ll walk through three actionable phases to make your one-on-one the most powerful meeting on your schedule, and I’ll give you the tools to prepare, build momentum, and make your big ask with confidence. Here’s a quick overview of what we covered: Why status updates belong in quick emails, not in your precious one-on-one time The importance of preparing for your one-on-one like it’s your meeting, not just your boss’s How to create and use a simple “brag file” to capture wins, progress, and impact as they happen The 3-line agenda that keeps your meetings focused and shows up with clarity every time Why the sequence of your ask really matters and how to build up to the big things you want The difference between asking for more resources or support, and outright asking for a raise or promotion How to have the money and title conversation, including the crucial “power of the pause” The role of timing and how to find out when pay decisions are really made How to separate the ask for money from the ask for scope or title and why you want to keep those threads clear Strategies if the answer is “no” and how that’s not always the end of the road What to do when following up after your meeting, and how to keep a shared record that helps your boss go to bat for you (or helps you make your case elsewhere if you ever need to) The weekly challenge to get started and show up like your one-on-ones are there for you because they are By the end of this episode, you’ll have a playbook for turning your one-on-ones from routine updates into compelling opportunities for growth. Start your brag file, send your three-line agenda, and remember: you’re not just working hard, you’re making sure your hard work gets seen. Let’s make your next meeting count! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 3 weeks ago1h 0m
Building Real Connections: How to Communicate and Listen Across Generations
How can adults truly connect with and empower the younger generation in an age where it feels like the tools for genuine communication are slipping away? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into the art of communication not just talking but really listening especially as it relates to bridging the generational gap. As someone who’s spent years on college campuses and in classrooms, I know firsthand how much adults can get caught up in teaching the “right” way to speak, lead, or motivate young people. But what if the real breakthrough comes from simply learning how to listen and making space for the voices of youth? That’s why I’m thrilled to welcome James McLamb to the show. With over three decades of experience working with students and having interviewed more than 2,500 of them, James McLamb brings a unique perspective as a national youth empowerment strategist, author, speaker, and founder of Generation Youth. He’s dedicated his life to equipping both young people and the adults who serve them with the tools for resilience, confidence, and leadership. Here’s what we covered in this episode: The importance of listening versus speaking when working with young people James McLamb’s journey from performing to serving on stage How “lighthouse parenting” helps guide rather than control youth Why giving too many answers (instead of asking questions) can hinder growth The impact of helicopter, lawnmower, and snowplow parenting styles How to ask better questions and the power of “tell me more” Why timing matters in conversations with teens answers don’t always come on our schedule The challenge of building credibility at a young age (and how to do it through service and authenticity) Technology’s role in shaping (and sometimes eroding) communication and conflict resolution skills Concrete advice for young people whose voices aren’t being heard by adults Details on Generation Youth’s mission to equip adults and teens for leadership, and where to learn more Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, student, or simply someone navigating generational divides, this conversation with James McLamb gives you a toolkit for listening, questioning, and leading with empathy and confidence. Connect with James: Website: https://www.generation-youth.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mclamb-74a72746/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/generation__youth/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesmclambauthor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- Oct 8, 202618 min
Mastering the Tell Me About Yourself Moment in Networking and Interviews
Have you ever frozen when someone asks, “So, tell me about yourself”? Or maybe you’ve rambled on, unsure what the other person really wants to hear? In today’s episode, I’m tackling one of the most common yet challenging questions you’ll face in networking events, interviews, or any conversation where you want to make an impact and how to answer it with clarity and confidence. As your host, Tim Newman, a recovering college professor and communication coach I’m excited to break down the real reason behind this dreaded question and how to respond in a way that stands out from the crowd. There’s no guest joining me this week; I’m here to walk you through a simple, powerful formula that works in any room. I start by admitting the traps I’ve fallen into myself coming from academia, it was natural to respond to “tell me about yourself” with a chronological timeline: degrees, positions, publications. But that’s not what people actually want or need to hear. The truth is, when someone asks about you, they’re quietly wondering, “Can you help me?” If your response is a list of dates and job titles, you’re missing the mark. This episode is all about shifting focus from yourself to the other person’s problem, why most introductions fail, and how you can ensure yours makes a memorable impact. I dive into the three classic mistakes people make: the chronological dump, the unnecessary overshare, and the robotic scripted answer. Instead, I introduce a simple three-part answer who you are, what you do, and why it matters that’s authentic, conversational, and relevant. Here’s what we covered in this episode: The real question behind “tell me about yourself,” and why the usual answers don’t work Three common mistakes that make you sound desperate or forgettable The simple, proven “who you are, what you do, why it matters” introduction framework How to stop focusing on your own history and start solving the other person’s problem Concrete examples for networking, interviews, and public speaking settings How to sound natural, not scripted, when delivering your answer Why listening like you’re wrong is just as important as talking like you’re right The one challenge I want you to try before your next conversation By the end of this episode, you’ll have a blueprint to answer “tell me about yourself” with confidence, make a strong impression, and turn every introduction into a real opportunity. I can’t wait for you to put this into practice because when you focus on helping others, you’ll always stand out in the very best way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- Oct 5, 202654 min
Why Your Accent Isn’t the Problem: Building Clarity and Confidence in Communication
Have you ever wondered whether your accent is holding you back from being understood or if something else is at play? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into the real reasons behind miscommunication, why clarity trumps accent, and how anyone, regardless of where they’re from, can become a more confident, impactful communicator. As someone who has heard countless people say, “I have an accent, so people don’t take me seriously, or they can’t understand me,” I wanted to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. Today, we’re talking about the essence of confidence and clarity and why being understood has far less to do with your accent than you think. I’m excited to welcome Jay Poulton to the show. Jay is a communications coach with two decades of experience and a unique background, having worked with clients from over 35 countries, including leaders at Apple, Amazon, Google, and Meta. His speciality is voice: how you sound, how you’re heard, and why those two things are rarely the same. Jay’s story starts in a multicultural household in Montreal, and his journey to becoming a sought-after voice coach includes fascinating experiences working with professionals worldwide. Together, we cover a lot of ground, including: Why your accent isn’t the real obstacle; clarity is The difference between how you sound and how you’re heard The mechanics of voice: resonance, posture, and breathing The impact of confidence and presence on communication Practical steps for becoming more comfortable with challenging words and phrases Techniques to maintain your authentic identity while improving clarity The influence of generational and cultural differences in communication styles The art of storytelling and using accent strategically to enhance authenticity The importance of listening and self-awareness for becoming a better communicator Tips for preparing for job interviews and presentations, including why you should always practice out loud The power of well-timed pauses and strategic pacing (with examples from Steve Jobs and Michelle Obama) Common communication mistakes like not matching the speed of your thoughts and words, or failing to prepare for your audience Why genuine connection always beats forced imitation If you’re looking to boost your confidence, refine your voice, or simply become better at connecting regardless of your background, this episode is packed with actionable advice, entertaining stories, and tried-and-true methods from the world of elite communication coaching. And if you’ve ever dreamed of being the voice of a cartoon character, you’re in good company! Tune in and discover how your voice, accent, and all can become your greatest strength. Connect with Jay: Website: https://theaccentcoach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-poulton-956b8633b/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theaccentcoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaytheaccentcoach/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAccentCoach-hz7er Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- Oct 1, 202617 min
Networking That Works: Why Giving First Gets You Noticed
Have you ever wondered why most cold networking emails get ignored while just a few actually open doors to real opportunities? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we answer that question by flipping the traditional "ask first" script on its head. I'm Tim Newman, your host and communication coach, and today we're tackling one of the biggest stumbling blocks in networking and professional relationship-building: how to connect with someone who seems out of reach without coming across as desperate or transactional. There isn’t a guest on this episode; it’s just you and me going deep on this crucial topic. If you’ve ever sent a message to a hiring manager, recruiter, or potential mentor only to be met with silence, you’re not alone. Most outreach falls flat because it starts with a one-sided task. We’ve all been there: hoping for a referral, an introduction, or just 15 minutes on someone’s calendar. But if you’re only asking (and not giving), your message blends into a sea of requests and quickly gets deleted. That’s why I’m sharing the Reciprocity Bridge, a three-part strategy for building authentic relationships by giving first, waiting, and then making a specific, respectful ask. This approach not only increases your odds of a response, but also establishes a foundation of trust and goodwill. It’s the missing piece that ties together the last few episodes on how to improve both your cold outreach and your follow-up skills. In this episode, I dive into: Why most cold asks get deleted and how to avoid being generic or forgettable The importance of changing the power dynamic when reaching out Why the problem isn’t asking for help but how and when you ask How genuine reciprocity builds trust and invites people to help you (and why people can sense when it’s fake) The three steps of the Reciprocity Bridge: Give something real, allow a genuine time gap, and then make your specific ask Practical examples of what you can offer, from thoughtful praise to helpful resources or introductions A breakdown of why timing matters and how to avoid coming off as transactional Scripts and actionable tips for crafting both your initial outreach and your “ask” in a way that people want to say yes to What to do if you get no response, or if you’re struggling to find an authentic way to give first You’ll also get a personal challenge: before sending your next networking message, stop and ask yourself what you can genuinely offer then let that gesture breathe before you make your ask. If you missed the other episodes in this series, make sure to check out the Give First Formula (for cold outreach) and the Continuation Frame (for better follow-ups). Together, they create a powerful system for building real professional relationships, one step at a time. As always, I remind you that progress, not perfection, is the goal. For more resources including a free ebook and course information visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com. Your voice truly has the power to change the world. Let’s build bridges, not just send messages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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About Speaking With Confidence
Are you ready to overcome imposter syndrome and become a powerful communicator? Whether you're preparing for a public presentation, sharpening your communication skills, or looking to elevate your personal and professional development, this podcast is your ultimate resource for powerful communication. The Speaking with Confidence podcast will help tackle the real challenges that hold you back, from conquering stage fright to crafting impactful storytelling and building effective communication habits. Every episode is designed to help you communicate effectively, strengthen your soft skills, and connect with any audience. With expert insights, practical strategies, and relatable examples, you’ll learn how to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a professional preparing for a high-stakes presentation, a student navigating a public speaking class, or someone simply looking to enhance their interpersonal skills, this podcast has the tools to empower you, all with a bit of humor. Join us each week as we break down what it takes to inspire and influence through communication. It’s time to speak with confidence, captivate your audience, and make your voice heard!
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