Episodios

  • Building Confidence on Every Stage: Communication Skills for All Generations

    Building Confidence on Every Stage: Communication Skills for All Generations
    Apr 6 2026
    How do you respond with confidence when an uncomfortable question tests your composure, especially in a professional setting? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into visibility, courage, and the power of showing up authentically even when the circumstances are less than ideal. Whether you're getting asked, "Who's watching your kids?" at a conference (when your male colleagues never are), or struggling to find your voice in team meetings, today’s conversation will help you find practical ways to stand tall and speak up no matter the situation. I'm thrilled to be joined by Sabine Hutchison, the CEO, author, and founder of the Ripple Network. Sabine is a powerhouse leader whose work focuses on helping others cut through the noise, trust their own voice, and intentionally shape their careers. Sabine’s own journey began when she moved to Germany with just two suitcases and no plan, which led her to reinvent her life by listening to her intuition rather than following a rigid blueprint. In our discussion, Sabine and I unpack why taking action without a perfect plan is often the best route for personal and professional growth. We reflect on generational differences in communication, visibility, and work ethic from the "just do it" attitude of Gen X to the entrepreneurial but differently structured approach of Gen Z and millennials. We also talk about the critical importance of stages big and small in building influence and accessing opportunities, and why visibility isn’t just about being seen, but about connecting through stories. Sabine shares stories and strategies from her own experience, including how she coaches leaders to take microsteps that build lasting confidence. We explore what it takes to speak up in meetings, especially if you’re hesitant or the only one in the room who looks like you. We get honest about self-doubt, the paralyzing fear of judgment (especially for younger generations), and why embracing feedback even when it stings is a crucial part of improvement. We also discuss real-life examples of handling outrageous or inappropriate questions with composure instead of emotion, reinforcing how practice and intentional actions like enlisting accountability partners or preparing for meetings in advance make a world of difference. Here’s what we covered in this lively and deeply practical episode: Sabine’s move to Germany and how intuition shaped her courage and reinvention 01:41 Taking action without a full plan and overcoming “analysis paralysis” 05:21 Generational differences in communication, risk-taking, and adapting to structure 09:15 The critical role of visibility and “stages” (of all sizes) for influence and opportunity 15:01 Microsteps, storytelling, and building self-trust and confidence in professional settings 19:00 Creative strategies for speaking up in meetings, even when it feels intimidating 26:32 The power of accountability groups and intentional practice for growth 29:04 Responding to gendered, biased, and outrageous questions in the workplace with composure 31:49 The origin and mission of the Ripple Network and how it empowers women to speak up, practice, and lead 38:07 How feedback, repetition, and a supportive network drive communication growth at any stage of your career 40:15 The importance of being coachable and open to feedback plus, honest anecdotes about learning from our own slip-ups 46:16 If you’ve ever second-guessed yourself or wondered how to boldly own your perspective, today’s episode will inspire you to take action no matter where you are on your journey. Tune in and join us as we explore what it really means to speak with confidence. Connect with Sabine: Website: https://sabinehutchison.com Website: https://www.theripplenetwork.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabine.hutchison/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabinehutchison/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 m
  • The Secret to Sounding as Confident as You Think

    The Secret to Sounding as Confident as You Think
    Apr 2 2026
    Have you ever wondered why you sound so smart in your emails and texts, but when it’s time to speak up in meetings or on Zoom, your voice just doesn’t match the conviction in your head? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we're diving deep into the “digital vocal gap”—the disconnect between the confident communicator you are online and the hesitant speaker you might become out loud. I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and today I’m guiding you step-by-step through bridging that gap. If you’ve ever felt your voice come out sounding thin or uncertain, even as you felt completely sure of your ideas, you’re not alone. The truth is, it's not about lacking confidence—it's about not using the full physical power of your voice. And I’m here to show you that it’s a tool you can learn to wield. In this solo episode, I introduce the critical concepts of chest resonance and vocal authority—how the physical place your voice originates from impacts your credibility long before the words you say even land with your audience. I’ll walk you through a practical exercise to literally feel the difference between speaking from your head versus your chest, and you’ll discover why so many of us accidentally default to what I call “horizontal speech,” keeping our voices small and tight, perfect for text but ineffective in person. I unpack the mechanics of grounded, vertical speech: how to open your vocal tract, drop your jaw, and use your chest to create sound that is full, resonant, and impossible to tune out. We practice together with simple, actionable exercises—like the sigh-of-relief technique and my “eighth grade rule,” a filter that will help you command attention even from the toughest, most skeptical audience. Here’s what I cover in today’s episode: The real reason your voice doesn’t always match your conviction in professional conversations The concept of the digital vocal gap and why most people have it Why people decide what to believe based on how you sound, not just what you say How to physically find and use your chest resonance for more authority The difference between horizontal (text bubble) and vertical (grounded, open) speech Guided voice exercises to feel and hear the difference in resonance and authority How creating vertical space in your sound makes you more compelling and less apologetic The “eighth grade rule” for instantly making your speaking voice more engaging and credible Connecting your inner clarity to your outer voice so your ideas always land A simple 60-second physical rehearsal routine to unlock your best, most confident spoken self before every call or meeting You’ll leave this episode with the tools, awareness, and practical steps to transform your presence in any conversation—no matter how nervous you used to feel. Let’s move your voice out of the cramped text bubble and into the room where your authority belongs. Your ideas deserve to be heard with the same certainty with which you write them. As always, progress, not perfection. Don’t forget to grab your free eBook, the Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, or register for my Formula for Public Speaking course. Your voice truly does have the power to change the world—let’s make sure everyone hears it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 m
  • Transformative Communication: Practical Tips for Sales, Leadership, and Everyday Conversations

    Transformative Communication: Practical Tips for Sales, Leadership, and Everyday Conversations
    Mar 30 2026
    Have you ever wondered what it actually means to communicate with confidence and why so many intelligent, high-performing people still struggle with it? In this episode, I dive deep into that question with Chris Johnson, a renowned sales and leadership coach who's built multimillion dollar organizations and equipped countless professionals to close deals, build thriving teams, and lead under pressure. Together, Chris and I unpack the real problem behind poor communication: most people think it happened, but it didn't. Chris explains why true communication means your message is actually received and remembered, not just spoken. We discuss personality types (like DISC), and why understanding who you're talking to is essential for success, whether you’re giving a speech, interviewing, networking, or managing a team. Chris shares hard-earned insights on the importance of listening, drawing on his experience as a sales trainer. He believes everyone you meet is your superior in some way, and it's your job to discover what you can learn from them. We talk about powerful lessons learned from children, family, and clients, and why approaching conversations as a student rather than a teacher will transform your life. Here’s what we covered in our conversation: The hidden gap between speaking and true communication How to tailor your message based on personality types like DISC Why listening is the most critical part of communication The mindset of approaching every conversation as a student Real-world stories about learning leadership from unexpected places The myth of instant confidence, and how it’s really built Overcoming the fear of imperfection in public speaking and video Helping one person vs. speaking to a crowd The impact of isolation, technology, and COVID on Gen Z’s communication skills The four levels of wealth and communication’s role in high earnings Practical advice for young professionals to transform their communication Why goal-setting should be about transforming yourself, not just hitting targets Continuous improvement and the importance of learning new things outside your craft How speaking with confidence goes far beyond words to posture, mannerisms, mindset, and clarity If you’re ready to transform the way you communicate, gain lasting confidence, and help others along the way, this episode is for you. Chris Johnson’s wisdom and practical frameworks will challenge and inspire you to take action one conversation at a time. Connect with Chris: Website: https://www.chrisjohnsonleadershipservices.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-johnson-08877624b/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chris-johnson-leadership-services/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chrisjohnsonleadershipservices/videos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 m
  • Stop Talking Like a Boss: The New Rules of Gen Z Communication

    Stop Talking Like a Boss: The New Rules of Gen Z Communication
    Mar 26 2026
    Have you ever wondered why your carefully crafted corporate messaging seems to miss the mark with younger team members? In today's episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackled a question that's baffling managers everywhere: Why does traditional "boss speak" actually kill trust and engagement with Gen Z—and what should you do instead? I'm Tim Newman, your host and guide on the journey to becoming a powerful communicator. As a recovering college professor turned communication coach, I bring you real stories and actionable insights that help you show up with confidence in every conversation. This episode was inspired by a pivotal moment I experienced in front of a room full of college seniors. Despite years of urging them to network strategically, my "professional" advice fell flat until I delivered the real, relatable truth: It's the people you know, not your GPA, that land you jobs. That shift took me from blank stares to genuine engagement—and it opened my eyes to how language shapes trust. We dive into the reality that most managers are still speaking a language Gen Z tuned out years ago. Drawing on Tim Elmore's research, I discuss how phrases like "let's circle back," "leverage synergy," and "align our strategic objectives" serve as instant disengagement triggers. Gen Z, raised online as expert BS detectors, spot vague or manipulative language immediately. They crave clarity, directness, and authenticity. This episode explains why polished corporate language doesn't build credibility—it erodes it, and your influence stems from being understood, not from holding a title. I share the formula for translating leadership principles into plain, human talk—without resorting to awkward slang or forced memes. It's about explaining the "why" first, connecting every task to real purpose and stakes, and operating with high-context brevity. You'll hear practical examples: Instead of "circle back," say "talk about the issue tomorrow at 10." Trade "leverage synergy" for "work together on a project," and replace "align our strategic objectives" with stating clear goals and measures of success. We explore how adopting this language shift moves you from managing tasks to inspiring belief in a mission. Gen Z values authenticity and purpose above all—if you don't change your communication style, you simply can't lead them effectively. The show walks through actionable steps like the One Meeting Challenge, where you strip away jargon, state the purpose plainly, and invite honest input. When you speak with clarity and listen with curiosity, you build trust and real buy-in. Here’s what I covered in this episode: Why Gen Z disconnects from traditional boss speak The cost of corporate jargon on trust and engagement Research-backed communication approach for today's teams The power of radical directness and saying the quiet part out loud How to translate vague directives into clear, actionable language Two key principles: Explaining the why first and high-context brevity Practical phrases that grab Gen Z’s attention—and ones to avoid Building credibility by dropping the professional façade How authentic, respectful leadership influences modern teams The "One Meeting Challenge" to help you put these ideas into practice immediately If you're ready to ditch the jargon, talk like a person, and lead a team that truly believes in your vision, this episode has your answers. Remember: progress, not perfection, is the goal. Your voice has the power to change the world—let’s make sure it’s heard. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 m
  • From TEDx to Everyday Wins: Confidence, Grit, and Communication Mastery with Dr. Christiane Schroeter

    From TEDx to Everyday Wins: Confidence, Grit, and Communication Mastery with Dr. Christiane Schroeter
    Mar 23 2026
    Do you ever wonder why building confidence feels so challenging and what's the secret to structuring a message that truly connects with an audience? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into practical, actionable steps to transform your communication and your confidence, no matter where you’re starting from. I’m Tim Newman, your host, and today I’m joined by the incredible Christiane Schroeter, TEDx speaker, professor, business and wellness coach, and creator of the Petite Practice framework. If you haven’t watched her TEDx talk, I can’t recommend it enough. It's hands-down one of the most actionable and inspiring talks I’ve seen. Christiane's specialty is helping professionals align their goals with their values for results that last, and she hosts the top 1% globally ranked podcast, Happy Healthy Hustle. She’s got a wealth of expertise in communication, innovation, and how to show up confidently, and in this conversation, she shares insights that you can put into practice today. We kick off by unpacking the true power behind a great TEDx talk and, by extension, any impactful presentation. Christiane Schroeter shares her intentional approach, focusing on what you want your audience to feel and do after your talk because structure is everything. We dig into her experience as an immigrant and bilingual educator, revealing how language learning is a metaphor for confident communication and the importance of truly listening first. Christiane and I joke about raising kids with multiple languages and how this shapes empathy and nuanced expression (and, yes, the fun of switching languages in heated family moments!). Here's what we covered in this value-packed episode: The importance of clear structure and audience-centered messaging in public speaking Why learning and using different languages builds empathy and expressive power Tips for practicing talks in the “real world” and why mirror practice isn’t enough How to use peer feedback and self-reflection to grow as a communicator The true benefit of failure (and why “failure” is your First Attempt In Learning) Overcoming perfectionism and embracing gritty persistence The impact of small, consistent actions (Petite Practice) on building lasting confidence Real-life stories from academia, startup life, and the TEDx stage Why your journey to confidence is unique and how to make it sustainable Insights on publishing, self-talk, resilience, and celebrating progress Where to find more from Christiane Schroeter and her frameworks for lasting growth Connect with Christiane: Website: https://doctorchristiane.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/christianeschroeter/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/@doctor.christiane Facebook: https://facebook.com/doctorchristiane X: https://x.com/Christiane_711 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@doctor.christiane TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hello.happy.nest Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/doctor.christiane/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@doctor.christiane Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 1 m
  • How to Master Your Digital Presence Without Being Cringey

    How to Master Your Digital Presence Without Being Cringey
    Mar 19 2026
    Have you ever felt invisible on a Zoom call, like your presence barely registers with the group no matter how hard you try? In today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive into the real problem behind our digital disconnect and it’s not your lighting or camera quality. I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and I’m here to help you transform from a digital ghost into someone who truly commands attention in any virtual room. In this solo episode, I unpack the secret sauce that the top 1% of virtual communicators use to create genuine psychological presence. Forget about buying new gear, the real difference lies in how you structure your message, how you engage with others, and the micro-moves you use to project true authority online. I introduce my SyncLink System, a practical framework built around three pillars: clarity, curiosity, and connection. We start by exploring the Clarity Filter, why simplicity is the new authority and how complexity kills engagement in a virtual setting. I share a powerful technique from John Maxwell called the 8th Grade Rule, and give you a three-step process to make sure your ideas land perfectly every time. You’ll hear how this has helped my executive clients go from being ignored to truly leading their meetings. Next, I reveal the Curiosity Protocol: a game-changing mindset shift inspired by Tim Elmore’s ‘Listen Like You’re Wrong’ approach. I walk you through how to lower tension, earn the right to be heard, and transform conflict into connection all while strengthening long-term relationships instead of just “winning” arguments. Finally, I get tactical with the Connection Catalyst the deliberate micro-moves that signal your presence and build digital gravitas, such as mastering camera contact instead of mere eye contact, using intentional pauses for authority, and deploying name anchors and micro-validations to keep your audience truly engaged. I explain exactly how these small behaviors add up to massive results over the course of a typical meeting. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why psychological presence outweighs technical upgrades for digital influence The three pillars of the SyncLink System: clarity, curiosity, and connection How to pass the “8th Grade Rule” and make your message instantly understandable Strategies for winning allies instead of just points in a debate The power of “Listen Like You’re Wrong” and the 10% truth principle Why and how you need to combine camera contact with intentional pauses Tools for name anchoring and micro-validation to make people feel truly seen A simple, step-by-step action plan to build new habits without feeling awkward or forced If you’re tired of dull virtual meetings and want to make your presence felt on every call, this is the episode you don’t want to miss. I also share how to get your hands on my ebook, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, plus details on joining the Formula for Public Speaking course. Remember, your voice has the power to change the world. Let’s bridge the digital gap and help you connect, lead, and be understood no matter where you are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 m
  • Becoming a Confident Communicator: Insights on Video, Branding, and Self-Discovery for Speakers

    Becoming a Confident Communicator: Insights on Video, Branding, and Self-Discovery for Speakers
    Mar 16 2026
    Have you ever wondered what it really takes to capture an audience—whether you're on stage, in front of a camera, or just showing up in a pivotal conversation? Today, we're answering exactly that. In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I'm diving deep with Cam Beaudoin, a video agency founder who specializes in helping speakers, coaches, and entrepreneurs get noticed, trusted, and booked through powerful, story-driven video content. Cam brings all kinds of energy and insight, and we quickly get into the heart of what it means to project confidence—especially when working with video. We talk about the challenge of connecting through the lens, why you might need to raise your energy even more than you would in a live audience, and how the right tactics can turn your videos from boring to brilliant. You'll learn Cam’s journey from speaking about disability inclusion for IBM to finding a critical pain point in speakers who were overwhelmed or embarrassed by creating demo reels. We explore the myth of thinking you’ve “arrived” as a speaker and the real value of practicing, watching yourself on video, and continually improving your craft. Cam shares practical strategies to critique your own video performances, emphasizing the importance of focusing on both visual and audio aspects separately, and matching your emotional tone to your message. We also tackle the branding dilemma, how to become the go-to expert in your field instead of jumping from topic to topic, and why true authority takes effort, focus, and some soul-searching. Cam shares anecdotes about speakers who struggle to maintain brand consistency, and we discuss how testimonials and real transformations anchor your brand in the minds of event planners and clients. Here's what you'll hear covered in the episode: Projecting energy and connecting with audiences on camera versus in-person Cam’s transition from disability inclusion speaker to video expert for speakers The power of watching your own videos (and using mute/audio to analyze yourself) The opportunity cost of mediocre video and practicing to maximize impact Branding: how to narrow your focus, build authority, and be remembered for one thing The journey and challenges of pivoting within a brand or niche Getting known, getting hired, and why self-promotion matters (even for seasoned pros) Using YouTube as a video showcase for event planners and clients Crafting irresistible hooks for videos with practical examples TEDx and The Moth as storytelling formats—what they teach about engagement and structure Rethinking origin stories, using client success as compelling narratives, and making any story relatable Essential communication skills that cross all formats: empathy, understanding pain vs. pleasure, and focusing on the listener’s needs Defining authenticity, professionalism, and how to dress and act for credibility The role of feedback, openness to critique, and the realities of expert status If you're ready to level up your speaking and video presence, build a resilient brand, and confidently show up in every conversation, this episode has the tools and the real talk you need. Don’t miss my chat with Cam Beaudoin, it’s packed with actionable insights and a few laughs along the way. Connect with Cam: Website: https://www.thefrequentspeaker.com/speaker-booking-agency-landing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cambeaudoin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefrequentspeaker YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFrequentSpeaker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h
  • How to Build Confidence by Owning Your Failures | Tim Newman Speaks

    How to Build Confidence by Owning Your Failures | Tim Newman Speaks
    Mar 12 2026
    Have you ever felt like a total fraud, trying to perform as an expert instead of actually becoming one? In this episode, I dig into one of the biggest traps communicators face: the expert facade and the fear of failure that keeps us stuck. I'm Tim Newman, former college professor turned communication coach, and today on “Speaking with Confidence,” we're tackling the myth that failure is the enemy of success especially for Gen Z, where every misstep can feel like it's broadcast to the world on a permanent record. We often think that to be taken seriously, we need to show up perfectly, but that mindset actually blocks progress. I share two personal stories the first from my college days where I was so nervous during my first speech that I literally threw up in class, and a second, more recent example where I blanked and spelled my own name wrong in front of a nurse. These moments were embarrassing, but they weren’t endpoints. They were powerful pivots that taught me vital lessons about authenticity and human connection. In this episode, I walk you through my simple, three-part Pivot Protocol designed to transform every failure into a strategic advantage: no toxic positivity here, just practical, clear communication strategy. You’ll learn the difference between “tuition payments” (failures that teach you something) and “tragic errors” (ones you repeat without learning). We dive into why hiding mistakes actually creates communication breakdowns, blocking help and trust from your team or boss. Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode: The truth about why holding up a perfect expert image is a trap that shuts down learning How to reframe failures as essential data instead of identity-defining flaws Step-by-step instructions for using the Pivot Protocol: The Autopsy: A cold, emotion-free look at what went wrong and what it revealed The Extraction: Finding the strategic insight that only failure could give you The Leap: Turning your new insight into a confident, public move forward How I personally moved from being the most nervous speaker in class to a coach who builds real connection through vulnerability Practical questions for breaking down your mistakes, so you stop letting embarrassment run the show Why communicating your learned insights, instead of just the mistake, builds stronger trust and credibility How to shift your team dynamic from defensive and blame-focused to curious and innovative If you’re ready to stop protecting your image and start protecting the lesson, this episode is for you. Progress not perfection is the goal. Try applying the Pivot Protocol to a small failure this week and watch how your communication clarity and confidence grow. And don’t forget to grab your free ebook, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, at SpeakingWithConfidencePodcast.com or register for the Formulas for Public Speaking course. Remember: your voice has the power to change the world. See you next time! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 m