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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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- Yesterday17 min
Why Winning Arguments Can Damage Your Relationships
You can win an argument and still lose the connection. It happens more often than we realize. A simple disagreement can quickly turn into a competition where the goal shifts from understanding each other to proving who's right. In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, Tim Newman explores the hidden cost of always needing to win conversations and how this habit can damage relationships, weaken trust, and prevent meaningful communication. Tim shares how the desire to be right can show up in everyday conversations, from correcting small details in meetings to needing the last word during disagreements with family and friends. Drawing from Charles Derber's research on conversational attention, Dr. John Gottman's work on relationships, and the concept of the writing reflex in motivational interviewing, he explains why constantly pushing your point can cause others to become defensive and less willing to share what they really think. The good news is that you don't have to stay silent or give up your opinions to become a better communicator. The key is learning when to pause, listen, and focus on what you actually want from the conversation. In this episode, you'll learn how to recognize when a conversation has become a competition, identify the habits and words that signal you're trying to win, and make small changes that help build stronger connections and more meaningful conversations. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How everyday conversations turn into competitions without us realizing it. The difference between support responses and shift responses. Five common behaviors that reveal a need to win at all costs. How always needing to be right can damage trust and relationships. Why pushing someone to agree with you can make them more resistant. How to recognize physical and verbal signs that you're becoming defensive. Why asking genuine questions can lead to better conversations. Three practical ways to stop competing and start connecting. Three Ways to Practice Better Communication: Give it one more beat. Before responding, take a moment to keep your attention on the other person and ask one genuine follow-up question. Drop the last word. Make your point and allow it to stand without adding another explanation or trying to have the final say. Ask yourself what you actually want. Consider whether winning the argument is helping you achieve the outcome you want or pushing you further away from it. Choose one conversation where you feel the urge to correct someone, say "yes, but," or prove your point. Instead, ask one genuine question and let the other person have the last word. Pay attention to how the conversation changes when you stop trying to win. Remember, better communication isn't about winning every argument. It's about building trust, understanding others, and creating connections that matter. Visit https://speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com/ to get your free e-book, Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and learn more about developing your communication and public speaking skills. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 4 days ago57 min
Why Communication Breaks Down When We’re Triggered: Healing the Real Root of Conflict
Why is it that even when we know all the “right” communication strategies, we still fall apart or overreact in the conversations that matter most? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dig beneath the surface of communication challenges and explore what’s really happening when we get triggered at work, at home, or in any relationship. I’m Tim Newman, and today, I’m thrilled to bring Nima Rahmani to the show. Nima is an expert who works with high-performing individuals, couples, and families to heal relational wounds, regulate their nervous systems, and become trigger-proof in love, leadership, and all forms of connection. With a background blending neuroscience, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, and transformational coaching, Nima guides clients through deep internal shifts that create emotionally safe, co-regulated relationships. The conversation focused on unraveling the myth that most communication problems can be solved simply by learning new skills or techniques. According to Nima, these so-called “communication issues” are usually just symptoms of deeper nervous system activation. When we experience conflict or pressure, our bodies often respond as if we’re under threat, shutting down, going on the attack, or defaulting to long-established coping mechanisms from childhood and family conditioning. Together, we explored how real change begins by recognizing these automatic responses, getting honest with ourselves, and learning to parent our own inner child. One concept discussed was the idea of “relational rupture and repair”: it’s not enough to just avoid conflict or push through awkward moments, but instead we must learn to intentionally practice new behaviors and seek “corrective experiences” that show our nervous system it’s safe to show up authentically. In this episode, we covered: Why knowing how to communicate isn’t enough when you’re emotionally triggered How our nervous systems can sabotage our best intentions during high-stakes conversations The origins of defensive, shutdown, or explosive responses (and how to trace them back to childhood experiences) Practical steps for building an attuned relationship with your own body and emotions Why “just setting boundaries” or “being authentic” can feel impossible in the moment—and what actually helps The process of relational reenactment and corrective experiences to create new patterns The role shame and a fear of failure play in reactivity, especially in family dynamics The intergenerational passing down of emotional habits and how we can break the cycle How men and women often differ in emotional expression, and the importance of supportive communities When to speak up versus when to let go in conflict situations Turning the focus from “Why does this keep happening to me?” to “Why do I keep participating in this pattern?” How self-abandonment shows up in moments of activation and the path toward self-integration and true confidence Join me for an episode that goes far beyond public speaking tips to address the root of what holds us back from showing up with confidence, clarity, and connection when it truly counts. Connect with Nima: Website: https://becometriggerproof.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nimarahmany/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nimarahmanyofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nimarahmanyofficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NimaRahmanyOfficial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 1 weeks ago15 min
Why New Managers Lose Their Team and How to Win Them Back
Have you ever walked into your first team meeting as a new manager, only to look up a few minutes later and realize you’ve lost the room? Phones come out, eyes wander, and polite nods take the place of real engagement. Why does this “Attention Cliff” happen, and what can new leaders do to prevent it? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into the real reason so many new managers struggle to keep their teams engaged and most importantly, what you can do to become a leader people want to follow. Drawing both on research and my years teaching communication and leadership skills, I unpack the most common mistakes new managers make, and the simple, practical fixes that build lasting trust and genuine participation. We’ll talk about why 60% of new managers fail within their first two years not for lack of effort, but because of three common missteps that feel normal in the moment but quietly erode your team’s trust and attention. I share stories from my own time as a college professor, including how a classroom experiment with student-created rules transformed engagement and accountability. You’ll learn why handing over just the task, instead of the task, outcome, and reason, sets your team up for confusion and flat results. Plus, I break down the cost of vague credit when projects go well, revealing why your best people check out silently if their unique contributions aren’t recognized publicly and specifically. The conversation focused on the “Attention Cliff” , the sudden, often unnoticeable moment when engagement drops off in a meeting and how understanding human attention is crucial for any leader. One concept discussed was the importance of communicating outcomes and reasons, not just assignments, so team members understand the impact and stakes behind their work. A key theme that emerged was how ownership and specific recognition strengthen team culture and drive better results. The discussion explored practical techniques for structuring meetings that respect attention spans, such as starting with outcomes, sharing key points early, and frequently changing format to reset the room’s focus. Several points were raised, including the neuroscience behind attention, the financial cost of employee turnover triggered by lack of recognition, and actionable steps for rebuilding trust if you’ve already lost your team’s engagement. Here’s what we covered in this episode: The reality of the Attention Cliff and why it catches new leaders off guard Research on how quickly people lose focus in meetings (and what that means for your agenda) The three core mistakes most new managers make when handing off work and credit Personal stories about letting students set their own rules to unlock real accountability The measurable impact of specific, public recognition on retention and morale Neuroscience-backed steps for structuring meetings that work with (not against) natural attention patterns How to repair trust and re-engage a team when you’ve already lost the room A simple weekly challenge to practice and immediately observe the positive shift in your team Whether you’re leading your very first meeting or looking to sharpen your approach, this episode gives you the roadmap and confidence to earn real buy-in, boost performance, and build a team that’s as invested as you are. Your voice has the power to change the world let’s make sure your team is listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
- 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
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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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