Speaking With Confidence

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/

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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.
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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  

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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.
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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

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