Speaking With Confidence

Send us a textHave you ever wondered if it’s truly possible to rewire your brain for confidence—and finally break free from fears that hold you back? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into the powerful world of hypnosis with certified hypnotherapist, speaker, and bestselling author Amy Koford. Together, we unravel what hypnosis really is, how it works, and ways it can transform not only our communication with others, but also the way we talk to ourselves.We explore what led Amy Koford to hypnosis, including the pivotal moments and the “inner voice” that told her she was meant to help others in this way. Amy discusses how hypnosis goes far beyond the stereotypical portrayals in movies and television. She unpacks the science of trance states, theta brain waves, and how the subconscious mind can be retrained for breakthrough results. Whether it’s breaking a bad habit, boosting performance as an athlete, or conquering the fear of public speaking, Amy’s method emphasizes releasing limiting beliefs and replacing them with empowering ones.I ask Amy about how hypnosis applies to speakers, communicators, and leaders. She draws a direct line between optimal athletic performance and high-impact communication, illustrating how both require clearing out fear, rewriting mental scripts, and visualizing success. We also touch on the challenges faced by self-proclaimed “control freaks” and how hypnosis can help uncover and heal the root causes of that need for control.Here’s what we covered in our conversation:Amy’s path from personal struggles with depression to becoming a hypnotherapistWhat hypnosis actually is (and isn’t), debunking myths from pop cultureHow theta brainwaves allow for direct subconscious reprogrammingThe role of hypnosis in changing habits (like quitting sugar or smoking)How Amy helps athletes “clear the garbage” of past mistakes and perform with confidence—and how this same approach empowers public speakers and communicatorsThe release-and-replace method for eliminating internal blocks and installing new, confidence-boosting beliefsWhy we care what others think and strategies to overcome insecurity in high-stakes momentsThe importance of self-talk and the transformative power of the words “I am”A behind-the-scenes look at Amy’s bestselling book, Hardwired to Rise, and why tackling fear is at the core of healing and communicationPractical exercises for taking out the “mental trash” and refocusing on what you truly wantWhether you’re looking to overcome stage fright, let go of self-doubt, or simply get out of your own way, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-world examples, and actionable steps you can use to build rock-solid confidence.If you’re ready to take that next step, check out Amy’s resources at amykofoard.com and don’t miss her book, Hardwired to Rise, for deeper strategies on tackling fear and unlocking your most confident self. And as always, visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook and more resources to help your voice make an impact. Your confidence is closer than you think—sometimes, it just takes the right mindset shift.Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it actually takes to grow as a speaker—beyond just practicing your presentation in front of the mirror? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into the lessons I've learned on my own personal journey, including some pretty humbling moments and a behind-the-scenes look at how coaching and mentorship can truly elevate your skills.This week, I’m sharing the story of how I went from a nervous college student—literally the guy who puked in speech class—to a certified, confident speaker and coach. It’s not just about getting over nerves; it’s about shifting your mindset, investing in lifelong learning, and realizing that vulnerability (not perfection) is what really connects us with our audience.I also introduce Roddy Galbraith, John Maxwell’s own speaking coach, who played a pivotal role in helping me shape my story for the International Maxwell Conference’s three-minute speech contest. Roddy’s feedback pushed me to dig deeper, refine my delivery, and focus the message for real impact. If you’ve ever questioned whether coaching is worth the investment, wait until you hear the difference it made—and the advice Roddy gives.Here’s what we cover in this episode:How joining the Maxwell Leadership Certified Team revolutionized my approach to speaking and coaching othersWhat it’s like to compete in a high-stakes, three-minute speech contest—including the importance of timing and preparation, whether you’re speaking to 3,000 or just five peopleWhy I believe coaching is essential for everyone (even John Maxwell gets coached!)A raw story from my past: the first time I had to speak in public—and why it ended with me throwing up in classThe critical shift from perfectionism to authenticity, and the power of making your message about serving othersRoddy’s actionable feedback: how to tighten your speech, amp up your delivery, and draw out the message that mattersA side-by-side comparison of my first version and my final speech—showing exactly how much a story and performance can evolve with the right supportMy reminders about progress over perfection and the importance of chasing your potential, not letting self-doubt or others keep you from taking the next stepIf you’re looking for inspiration, practical takeaways, and an honest look behind the curtain, this episode is for you. Plus, I’ll tell you how to grab your free ebook and register for upcoming speaking courses. Your voice truly has the power to change the world—but only if you use it. Thanks for listening and for being part of this journey with me!Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

Send us a textWhat does it really take to lead and communicate with Generation Z in today’s workplace? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I sit down with Dr. Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders, bestselling author, and expert in multi-generational leadership. Dr. Elmore has spent decades developing emerging leaders—including an impressive 20 years by the side of John C. Maxwell—and he’s written extensively on what makes great leadership tick, especially in our rapidly evolving culture. If you’ve ever struggled to connect with Gen Z professionals or wondered why their anxiety levels seem so high, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.I’ve long believed that Gen Z is smarter and more entrepreneurial than previous generations, and finally, Dr. Elmore’s new book, The Future Begins with Z, delivers the data to back it up. In our conversation, we explore the shifts in social and technological dynamics that have shaped Gen Z, especially how anxiety (now at levels comparable to psychiatric patients in the 1950s) has become a natural outgrowth of the overwhelming flood of information they face daily. We dig into the critical distinction between post-traumatic stress and post-traumatic growth—how leaders and educators can help foster resilience instead of victimhood.Here’s what we cover in the episode:The roots of Gen Z’s high anxiety and how social media amplifies itCoaching young professionals through stress and building grit with empathy and compassionKey differences between post-traumatic growth and stress, and how to foster resilienceHow educators and employers can prepare Gen Z for professional success—through realistic expectations and reframing self-talkThe “Stockdale Paradox” and the difference between hope and optimism in leadershipThe misconception that Gen Z doesn’t want to work, and data from real-world focus groups that prove otherwiseThe necessity of building trust and relationships before offering feedback or correction (“Connect before you correct”), and the ALEG feedback processTeaching and modeling soft skills that Gen Z may be missing due to pandemic-era screen lifeWhy authentic, frequent, and brief communication trumps lengthy, infrequent updates—and why daily check-ins matterHow leaders can admit mistakes openly to build trust and model real communicationThe velvet-covered brick as a metaphor for leadership: balancing empathy with accountabilityRecognizing and responding appropriately to practical, social, and emotional conversations—especially when leading younger team membersWe wrap up with actionable steps for leading Gen Z better, starting right now—not tomorrow. If you want practical strategies, stories, and a hopeful look at how Gen Z can make us stronger leaders when we rise to the occasion, you’ll find gold in this episode. I’m grateful to Dr. Tim Elmore for joining the conversation and sharing his wisdom. For everyone ready to adapt, lead, and have more confident conversations with the next generation, this episode is for you.Connect with Tim:Website: https://growingleaders.comWebsite: https://www.timelmore.comLinkedIn: Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

Send us a textAre 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 influenceA personal leadership mistake that taught me hard lessons about credibilityWhy your behavior communicates more than your words, especially under scrutinyHow accountability—not perfection—accelerates trust and strengthens connectionsThe step-by-step formula for owning and fixing mistakes with clients and teamsA fresh take on vulnerability: how sharing learned wisdom (not present weakness) wins hearts and mindsHow to shift from a transactional to a partnership dynamic in any relationshipThe power of doing a quick “alignment audit” before key meetings to instantly increase impactWhether 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 showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook

Send us a textWhat if there was a proven way to help kids with dyslexia leap multiple grade levels in reading and writing—using strategies most schools never teach? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dig deep into this question and reveal practical answers with the help of a truly inspiring guest.Today, we’re diving headfirst into the realities of dyslexia—a condition that affects as many as 15 to 20% of learners, yet is still too often met with “let’s wait and see” in schools and by professionals. I have a personal connection to this topic, both as an educator and as someone with ADHD who faced my own hurdles in the traditional education system.Joining me for this conversation is Russel Van Brocklen, known as the “dyslexia professor.” Russel Van Brocklen didn’t just study dyslexia—he lived it, spending his early years reading and writing at a first-grade level, even into college, before finally learning to read fluently in law school. He’s devoted decades to translating structured literacy research into practical, bite-sized strategies families can use at home. His story, and the successes he’s helped engineer for countless kids, provide a roadmap out of what can feel like an endless educational maze.We explored Russel’s personal journey—from academic struggle and institutional roadblocks to academic success and expert status. We talk about the specific-to-general approach that flips how most of us were taught, and why it’s the leverage point for learners with dyslexia, ADHD, and other neurodiverse backgrounds. Russel shares real-life case studies, like Casey, a highly motivated fifth-grader who jumped eight grade levels in reading in just six months by leveraging her passion for Theodore Roosevelt.Here’s what you’ll take away from this conversation:The unique brain-based challenges and strengths of learners with dyslexia and ADHDWhy most accommodations don’t go far enough—and what actually worksHow to use a student’s “speciality” or passion as the engine for dramatic growth in reading and writingThe “specific to general” teaching method and why it works where traditional methods failSimple, research-backed home strategies that parents can use tonightThe critical role of writing in organizing thoughts and boosting reading levelsWhy early intervention is key—and how to advocate for your child in a system that may be resistant to changeHow the right support can transform not just academic skills, but confidence and mental healthFree and affordable resources for families (like dyslexiaclasses.com) and how to access expert helpYou’ll also hear about Russel Van Brocklen’s experience working within state governments, pushing for policy change, and training both teachers and parents to make a measurable impact—sometimes in as little as just three hours of training!By the end of this episode, you’ll have concrete steps for helping the neurodiverse students in your life succeed, and a new understanding of just how much potential every struggling reader really has. If you’ve ever felt like the system is stacked against kids who learn differently, this conversation will give you hope, strategies, and a path forward.To dig deeper, get your free guide, or connect directly with Russel Van Brocklen,Support the showWant to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatchSpeaking With ConfidenceFormula for Public SpeakingFacebook