Speaking With Confidence

• Practical Strategies to Overcome Digital Distractions and Screen Overload | Tim Newman Speaks

  Send us a textHave you ever wondered if your phone habits are actually rewiring your brain—and what you can do to reclaim truly meaningful conversations? In today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into the reality of digital overwhelm, exploring how our constant connectivity shapes not only our attention spans, but also our ability to build real, lasting connections.I’m Tim Newman, your host and a “recovering college professor” turned communication coach. If you caught my earlier conversation with Craig Mattson about digital overwhelm (and if not, be sure to listen!), today I’m taking our discussion one step further. This episode is packed with practical tips to help you break out of the screen-time spiral and nurture richer, more present communication—at work, at home, and everywhere it matters.I unpack just how our devices—and the behaviors they encourage—impact our brains, our relationships, and our emotional well-being. Did you know that our attention span has dropped to less than a goldfish’s, or that checking your phone mid-conversation can physically hurt your relationships? I detail the science behind these findings, walking you through what’s really happening in your brain when you’re glued to your screen.Here’s a sneak peek of what we cover in this episode:How excessive screen time quite literally changes the physical structure of your brain, especially the areas that keep your empathy and emotional processing sharpThe eye-opening comparison between our attention span today and that of a goldfish (spoiler: the fish is winning)Why multitasking is just rapid attention switching, and how every notification derails your focus for as much as 25 minutesHow checking your phone—even for a split second—during meetings or conversations triggers feelings of rejection and erodes trustThe surprising emotional gap in text-based communication vs. phone calls or in-person chats, including why arguments take longer to resolve over text and why emojis don’t always helpThe neuroscience behind why social media may be numbing our real-world empathy, and how dopamine-driven interactions make it harder to form deep, lasting bondsSimple, science-backed strategies to repair your attention span—like the 90/20 rule, tech-free meal times, and delaying morning phone use—and the powerful results you can expect to seeThe truth about “multitasking” in virtual meetings and the dramatic drop in information retention when devices are presentWhy creating analog space and reducing digital distractions leads not only to better memory and increased empathy, but more rewarding, memorable conversationsThroughout the episode, I share practical experiments, easy habits, and real-world stories—along with the latest research—to help you make progress, not seek perfection. You’ll discover small changes that restore focus and connection, proving you don’t have to renounce technology to build your confidence as a communicator. Start with just one device-free meal a day and see just how much deeper your conversations can go.Don’t forget to check out speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook and details on my public speaking course. Your voice matters—and with a bit of intentionality, you can ensure it’s heard, felt, and Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

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• How Introverts Can Thrive on Stage and in Networking Events with Michael Pope

  Send us a textHave you ever wondered how introverts can thrive on stage and conquer self-doubt, even when anxiety and imposter syndrome are in the way? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into the journeys, frameworks, and behind-the-scenes realities of overcoming hesitation so you can step up and speak out—no matter how nervous you may feel.Today, I’m excited to welcome my friend Michael Pope: an international keynote speaker, leadership coach, and author of Doers Win the Day. Known as the Hesitation Breaker, Michael Pope brings over two decades of IT and leadership experience, having transformed software developers into adept people developers. His expertise centers on productivity, overcoming hesitation, and equipping high achievers and introverted professionals with the tools they need to succeed.We explore the unique challenges introverts face when the spotlight is on. Michael Pope opens up about his process for “recharging on demand” after high-energy engagements and the importance of being present and available to audience members after events—even if it feels uncomfortable at first. We also discuss practical networking strategies, like attending events with a purpose-driven list of connections, and why you must add value to others before asking anything in return.A major highlight of our conversation is imposter syndrome and the excuses that creep in. We talk candidly about those moments of hesitation—like almost inviting a dream guest on the show but never quite hitting send. We unpack Michael Pope’s signature DOER framework (Discipline, Opportunity, Eliminate Excuses, Responsibility) and how it applies not just to speaking, but to every area of personal and professional growth. He gives real-life examples of stretching outside your comfort zone, preparing for high-stakes talks (and recovering when things go wrong), and the importance of coaching and mentorship—no matter how seasoned you become.Here’s what we cover in this episode:Why sharing personal stories (especially about family) builds trust and relatabilityStrategies for introverts to thrive on stage and in back-to-back networking environmentsThe necessity of approaching events and networking with a clear, value-driven purposeThe DOER framework and how to use it to push through hesitation, excuses, and fearReal talk on imposter syndrome and actionable ways to move past itHow joining Toastmasters and investing in coaching can fast track your progressSurprising lessons from sharing the stage with legends like Les Brown and learning from mentors like Roddy GalbraithThe process of preparing for a major keynote event—from understanding the client’s goals to practicing with intentionWhen technology fails: staying cool, calm, and professional under pressureThe power of recording yourself and constructive self-feedback for brand-new speakersWhy celebrating small wins every day fuels growth and momentum for the long haulIf you want to find your authentic voice, build rock-solid speaking habits, and finally stop holding yourself back, you’ll want to listen to every minute of this episode. Tune in, take notes, and remember: your voice has the power to change the world—but only if you’re brave enough to use it.Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

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• Escaping the Networking Paradox and Creating Connections that Count | Tim Newman Speaks

  Send us a textAre you building a network that looks impressive on paper, but feels hollow in practice? Are you craving genuine professional relationships that help you grow, not just fill your contact list? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle the paradox facing modern professionals: staying "connected" but still feeling isolated. If you’ve ever wondered why your networking efforts haven’t translated into real momentum or meaningful relationships, this episode is for you.I dive deep into the concept of what I call the Connector Climber—a mindset and system that blends authentic relationship-building with purposeful career growth. Drawing from years as a college professor and coach, I share hard-earned insights and a practical framework designed to help you move beyond the two most common personality traps: the Connector (the selfless but stagnant giver) and the Climber (the ambitious but isolated achiever). I reveal how recognizing which type you tend toward is the first step to transforming how you build your network.In this episode, I unpack the reasons why simply "knowing everyone" isn’t enough, and why climbing the career ladder solo leaves you stranded. You’ll hear personal stories, including my own aha moment in academia and a powerful example from a client who broke out of the connector rut to lead strategic projects.Here’s what I covered:Why most professionals fall into the Connector or Climber category, and why both approaches are incompleteThe essential mindset shift: moving from being useful to being collaborative, and the role vulnerability plays in building lasting relationshipsHow to define your personal “mountain”—the specific goal that catalyzes intentional connectionsThe three non-negotiable rules for becoming a Connector Climber: knowing your mountain, auditing your circle for growth-minded influences, and creating value instead of trading favorsPractical, real-world examples of what value creation looks like, and how to frame networking conversations as mutual exchanges rather than asksA step-by-step challenge to help you reconnect with someone in your network with clarity and intentionThe differences between transactional and transformational relationships, and how to build a team—not just a contact list—that supports your professional climbResources for further growth, including my book Connections That Count and free guides for public speakersBy the end of the episode, you’ll be equipped with a system that transforms your approach to networking—from checking boxes to sowing the seeds of true collaboration and mutual momentum. If you’re ready to build connections that actually count, this episode is your roadmap to becoming a confident Connector Climber. Thanks for listening and being part of the Speaking with Confidence community!Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

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• How to Win Over Any Audience: Lessons in Stage Confidence and Storytelling from Magician Tom Elliott

  Send us a textHave you ever wondered how seasoned performers capture and hold the attention of even the most distracted or reluctant audiences? On today’s episode of Speaking With Confidence, we answer that question and dig deep into what it really takes to build confidence, adapt on the fly, and show up authentically in every speaking situation—whether it’s a children’s birthday party, a raucous holiday park, or a high-stakes corporate keynote.I’m Tim Newman, your host and recovering college professor turned communication coach, and I’m thrilled to share this episode with you because it offers a fresh perspective on stage presence, storytelling, and handling those inevitable moments when things don’t go as planned.Joining me today is Tom Elliott, corporate event host, comedy magician, and storytelling coach, who brings a remarkable blend of entertainment expertise to the world of professional communication. Tom has performed across the UK for audiences that often weren’t there to see him, which has made him a master at winning over even the toughest crowds. His journey from performing magic and ventriloquism at children’s parties, to holiday parks and eventually the corporate world, is not only fascinating but full of practical lessons for anyone looking to build their influence through communication.You’ll also hear us dig into:Tom’s origins in magic, ventriloquism, and the lessons learned from children’s parties and holiday park gigsWhy corporate and holiday park audiences are worlds apart—and how to adjust your approach for eachHow to manage failing moments on stage and use them to grow (including both of our worst stories)The power of practicing in public, trying new material, and being willing to fail to get betterWhat it really takes to grab attention in the first 30 seconds of any talk, meeting, or showHow to dial up your natural personality traits by 10% for stage presence and audience connectionThe difference between internalizing your core message versus memorizing a rigid script, and how this helps you adapt with confidenceWhy personal stories work, even for people who are nervous to use themBuilding confidence through repeated action and practical strategies for anyone starting out (including organizing your own gigs!)Tom also shares a free resource for anyone wanting to create a more engaging keynote, along with actionable tips you can put into practice right away.Whether you’re a business leader, aspiring speaker, or someone who just wants to feel more at ease communicating when it counts, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and the reassurance that failing is not the end—it's part of the path to becoming a powerful, confident communicator.Thanks for joining us on Speaking With Confidence. Remember, your voice has the power to change the world!Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

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• Why You Hate Your Voice and How to Fix It | Tim Newman Speaks

  Send us a textHave you ever listened to a recording of your own voice and thought, “Who is that?” If you’ve ever cringed at the sound of your voice on tape, you’re not alone. In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into why our own voice sounds so strange to us on a recording—and more importantly, what you can do about it.I’m Tim Newman, your host and a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Today’s episode is all about bridging the gap between the voice you think you have and the one the world actually hears. I’ll show you why you don’t need to “fix” your voice, but understand what’s happening behind the scenes—both physically and psychologically—so you can finally build confidence in how you sound for your presentations, meetings, and important conversations.There’s no guest this week; it's just me, sharing techniques and insights straight from my own coaching experience. If you’ve ever felt hesitant to speak up because you’re self-conscious about your voice, or you want to project more authority and command in your professional life, this episode is for you.Here’s what I cover:Why your voice sounds so different—and often “worse”—when you hear it recorded, thanks to the physics of bone conduction versus air conduction.The phenomenon I call “imposter voice syndrome” and why it fuels self-doubt and anxiety.How exposure therapy can help you get comfortable with the sound of your recorded voice and shift from self-judgment to self-acceptance.Practical, immediately actionable techniques to power up your voice, including diaphragmatic breathing for resonance and steadiness, finding your optimal pitch with safe and easy exercises, and the strategic use of pauses to add authority and presence.Tips for using volume and articulation to ensure your message lands—so you never mumble or fade out at a crucial moment.How the way you use your voice transforms your leadership presence and credibility.Tactics for handling high-pressure situations, reading the room, and dynamically adjusting your delivery for maximum impact.Developing a simple, five-minute pre-speaking vocal warmup routine to make confidence a habit instead of a hope.The mindset shift from self-consciousness to audience focus so you stop apologizing for your sound and start using your voice as a strategic communication asset.By the end of the episode, you’ll realize that your voice is not something to hide or “fix”—it’s your unique communication signature. With some deliberate practice and self-kindness, you’ll be on your way to speaking with authentic confidence, no matter the situation. If you take away only one thing today, let it be this: your voice has the power to change the world, starting with how you think and feel about it.For more resources, remember to grab your free eBook and check out the Formula for Public Speaking rules at speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com. Until next time, embrace your voice and keep building that confidence!Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

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