Speaking With Confidence

Tim Newman
  • 4.7 (3)
  • Management
  • Updated Biweekly

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! Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/timnewman

  1. 2d ago

    Mastering the Tell Me About Yourself Moment in Networking and Interviews

    Have you ever frozen when someone asks, “So, tell me about yourself”? Or maybe you’ve rambled on, unsure what the other person really wants to hear? In today’s episode, I’m tackling one of the most common yet challenging questions you’ll face in networking events, interviews, or any conversation where you want to make an impact and how to answer it with clarity and confidence. As your host, Tim Newman, a recovering college professor and communication coach I’m excited to break down the real reason behind this dreaded question and how to respond in a way that stands out from the crowd. There’s no guest joining me this week; I’m here to walk you through a simple, powerful formula that works in any room. I start by admitting the traps I’ve fallen into myself coming from academia, it was natural to respond to “tell me about yourself” with a chronological timeline: degrees, positions, publications. But that’s not what people actually want or need to hear. The truth is, when someone asks about you, they’re quietly wondering, “Can you help me?” If your response is a list of dates and job titles, you’re missing the mark. This episode is all about shifting focus from yourself to the other person’s problem, why most introductions fail, and how you can ensure yours makes a memorable impact. I dive into the three classic mistakes people make: the chronological dump, the unnecessary overshare, and the robotic scripted answer. Instead, I introduce a simple three-part answer who you are, what you do, and why it matters that’s authentic, conversational, and relevant. Here’s what we covered in this episode: The real question behind “tell me about yourself,” and why the usual answers don’t work Three common mistakes that make you sound desperate or forgettable The simple, proven “who you are, what you do, why it matters” introduction framework How to stop focusing on your own history and start solving the other person’s problem Concrete examples for networking, interviews, and public speaking settings How to sound natural, not scripted, when delivering your answer Why listening like you’re wrong is just as important as talking like you’re right The one challenge I want you to try before your next conversation By the end of this episode, you’ll have a blueprint to answer “tell me about yourself” with confidence, make a strong impression, and turn every introduction into a real opportunity. I can’t wait for you to put this into practice because when you focus on helping others, you’ll always stand out in the very best way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Mastering the Tell Me About Yourself Moment in Networking and Interviews

  2. 5d ago

    Why Your Accent Isn’t the Problem: Building Clarity and Confidence in Communication

    Have you ever wondered whether your accent is holding you back from being understood or if something else is at play? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into the real reasons behind miscommunication, why clarity trumps accent, and how anyone, regardless of where they’re from, can become a more confident, impactful communicator. As someone who has heard countless people say, “I have an accent, so people don’t take me seriously, or they can’t understand me,” I wanted to explore what’s really going on beneath the surface. Today, we’re talking about the essence of confidence and clarity and why being understood has far less to do with your accent than you think. I’m excited to welcome Jay Poulton to the show. Jay is a communications coach with two decades of experience and a unique background, having worked with clients from over 35 countries, including leaders at Apple, Amazon, Google, and Meta. His speciality is voice: how you sound, how you’re heard, and why those two things are rarely the same. Jay’s story starts in a multicultural household in Montreal, and his journey to becoming a sought-after voice coach includes fascinating experiences working with professionals worldwide. Together, we cover a lot of ground, including: Why your accent isn’t the real obstacle; clarity is The difference between how you sound and how you’re heard The mechanics of voice: resonance, posture, and breathing The impact of confidence and presence on communication Practical steps for becoming more comfortable with challenging words and phrases Techniques to maintain your authentic identity while improving clarity The influence of generational and cultural differences in communication styles The art of storytelling and using accent strategically to enhance authenticity The importance of listening and self-awareness for becoming a better communicator Tips for preparing for job interviews and presentations, including why you should always practice out loud The power of well-timed pauses and strategic pacing (with examples from Steve Jobs and Michelle Obama) Common communication mistakes like not matching the speed of your thoughts and words, or failing to prepare for your audience Why genuine connection always beats forced imitation If you’re looking to boost your confidence, refine your voice, or simply become better at connecting regardless of your background, this episode is packed with actionable advice, entertaining stories, and tried-and-true methods from the world of elite communication coaching. And if you’ve ever dreamed of being the voice of a cartoon character, you’re in good company! Tune in and discover how your voice, accent, and all can become your greatest strength. Connect with Jay: Website: https://theaccentcoach.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-poulton-956b8633b/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theaccentcoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaytheaccentcoach/     YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAccentCoach-hz7er Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Why Your Accent Isn’t the Problem: Building Clarity and Confidence in Communication

  3. Oct 1

    Networking That Works: Why Giving First Gets You Noticed

    Have you ever wondered why most cold networking emails get ignored while just a few actually open doors to real opportunities? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we answer that question by flipping the traditional "ask first" script on its head. I'm Tim Newman, your host and communication coach, and today we're tackling one of the biggest stumbling blocks in networking and professional relationship-building: how to connect with someone who seems out of reach without coming across as desperate or transactional. There isn’t a guest on this episode; it’s just you and me going deep on this crucial topic. If you’ve ever sent a message to a hiring manager, recruiter, or potential mentor only to be met with silence, you’re not alone. Most outreach falls flat because it starts with a one-sided task. We’ve all been there: hoping for a referral, an introduction, or just 15 minutes on someone’s calendar. But if you’re only asking (and not giving), your message blends into a sea of requests and quickly gets deleted. That’s why I’m sharing the Reciprocity Bridge, a three-part strategy for building authentic relationships by giving first, waiting, and then making a specific, respectful ask. This approach not only increases your odds of a response, but also establishes a foundation of trust and goodwill. It’s the missing piece that ties together the last few episodes on how to improve both your cold outreach and your follow-up skills. In this episode, I dive into: Why most cold asks get deleted and how to avoid being generic or forgettable The importance of changing the power dynamic when reaching out Why the problem isn’t asking for help but how and when you ask How genuine reciprocity builds trust and invites people to help you (and why people can sense when it’s fake) The three steps of the Reciprocity Bridge: Give something real, allow a genuine time gap, and then make your specific ask Practical examples of what you can offer, from thoughtful praise to helpful resources or introductions A breakdown of why timing matters and how to avoid coming off as transactional Scripts and actionable tips for crafting both your initial outreach and your “ask” in a way that people want to say yes to What to do if you get no response, or if you’re struggling to find an authentic way to give first You’ll also get a personal challenge: before sending your next networking message, stop and ask yourself what you can genuinely offer then let that gesture breathe before you make your ask. If you missed the other episodes in this series, make sure to check out the Give First Formula (for cold outreach) and the Continuation Frame (for better follow-ups). Together, they create a powerful system for building real professional relationships, one step at a time. As always, I remind you that progress, not perfection, is the goal. For more resources including a free ebook and course information visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com. Your voice truly has the power to change the world. Let’s build bridges, not just send messages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Networking That Works: Why Giving First Gets You Noticed

  4. Sep 28

    How to Overcome Performance Anxiety and Speak with Confidence in Any High-Stakes Situation

    Have you ever felt completely prepared for a presentation, only to have your confidence evaporate the moment you step up to speak? If so, you’re not alone. In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we're tackling one of the most common and most frustrating experiences for anyone who speaks, performs, or competes in front of others: performance anxiety. I'm Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and today I’m joined by Dr. David Fish, a PhD in ethnomusicology, professional musician, and a leading authority on performance anxiety and mindfulness. David not only shared the stage with legendary names like Ella Fitzgerald and Little Richard, but he also had his own unforgettable “freeze” moment while performing with Sonny and Cher, a moment that sparked a lifelong quest to understand what really happens when nerves take over. In our conversation, David explains the difference between confidence and performance anxiety, and why so many talented professionals, whether they’re in the spotlight or the boardroom, find their skills deserted at the crucial moment. We unpack the myths around just “thinking positive” or “calming down,” and dig into why these strategies often fall short when your internal bodyguard (the amygdala) decides there’s a threat and floods your system with adrenaline. Here’s what we covered in this episode: The difference between confidence and performance anxiety, and how even seasoned professionals can be caught off guard by nerves Why common advice like “calm down” or “think positive” doesn’t work against adrenaline-fueled anxiety The three factors that trigger performance anxiety, no matter your field or experience level How to accept, not fight, your nervousness and why that leads to better performance The importance of preparation, rituals, and controlling your environment (plus what to do when things don’t go as planned) The role of mindful focus (“only go straight, don’t know”) in overcoming distractions and outside judgments How to distinguish between excitement and anxiety, and why channeling energy the right way matters The idea that public speaking is a performance, and why embracing that doesn’t mean being inauthentic The value of bringing your core beliefs and values to the moment, especially when the stakes are high Practical strategies for shifting self-talk and grounding yourself before you step up to speak If you’ve ever wondered why your nerves sometimes get the best of you, or you’re searching for practical, compassionate tools to step into the spotlight with greater confidence, this episode offers wisdom, stories, and actionable guidance you can use right away. As always, remember: you’re not broken; performance anxiety is a perfectly human response. Accept it, focus on what matters, and keep showing up with courage Connect with David: Website: https://riseupeight.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidleefish/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Rise-Up-Eight/61584704705649/# Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riseupeight8    YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@riseupeight    Book: https://a.co/d/0cyKBDvl Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    How to Overcome Performance Anxiety and Speak with Confidence in Any High-Stakes Situation

  5. Sep 24

    Stop Sending Generic Conference Emails and Start Building Rapport

    Have you ever left a conference feeling like you made genuine connections, only to watch those relationships fizzle out after sending a follow-up email? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we tackle a frustrating and surprisingly common problem: why do so many conference follow-up emails fall flat, and how can you ensure yours actually build real relationships? Today, I’m diving deep into the art of the conference follow-up specifically, why a generic “Great meeting you!” does more harm than good, and how to transform the way you reconnect after those face-to-face moments. We’ve all been there: you’ve spent hours building rapport, swapping stories, maybe even venting about bad coffee or laughing about a keynote that went long. But when it’s time to send the follow-up, it somehow collapses into the same stale template you’ve sent to a dozen other people. The result? Radio silence. There’s no guest in this episode, it's just me, sharing the hard-earned lessons from my own experience as a communication coach and former college professor (and yes, from plenty of my own failed networking attempts). If you missed last week’s episode on the three-sentence fix for cold emails, I highly recommend checking that out, since what we’ll talk about today builds right on top of that foundation. Here’s what you can expect from this episode:I’ll reveal the critical mistake everyone makes treating a warm conference contact just like a cold lead. I’ll walk you through the “continuation frame,” a powerful technique that ensures your follow-up picks up where you left off rather than starting over from zero. We’ll break down why referencing your actual conversation, not just the handshake, is the difference between being remembered and being ignored. You’ll learn how to craft a three-sentence email with the right kind of opening, a thoughtful delivery of what you promised, and an exit ramp that doesn’t pressure the other person. By the end of our discussion, you’ll know: Why most follow-up emails unintentionally say “goodbye” instead of “let’s keep building” The real reason people don’t reply to generic follow-ups (it’s not what you think) The three essential components of a compelling conference follow-up email How to reference shared moments as social capital What to do if you didn’t promise anything (and why never to fake it) The timing “sweet spot” for your follow-up How to turn every handshake into a real relationship by proving you listened, not just networked I’ll also challenge you to review your last follow-up email and rewrite your opening sentence, so it proves you were actually present in the original conversation. That small shift is the whole game it takes you from being a stranger to someone who’s genuinely invested. Listen in for practical tips that will transform how you connect after conferences and remember: your voice and your follow-up has the power to change the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Stop Sending Generic Conference Emails and Start Building Rapport

  6. Sep 21

    Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Stage Fright and Sharing Your Story

    Have you ever wondered why it seems so hard to speak up and reclaim your voice as an adult, even though we were so unfiltered and fearless as kids? In today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, we’re tackling that very question and digging into those internal stories and cultural messages that shape how we show up both on stage and in our everyday lives. This episode is especially close to my heart, as it hits at the core of why I started this podcast: to help listeners build the kind of communication skills and confidence that lead to real results, not just professionally, but personally, too. Joining me is Stephanie Peirolo, a board-certified executive coach, celebrated storyteller featured on The Moth and NPR, and author of The Saint and the Drunk: A Guide to Making the Big Decisions in Your Life. Throughout our conversation, Stephanie gets real about the myth that “some people are just born confident.” She shares her own deep stage fright (including throwing up in green rooms before major performances!) and opens up about how purpose and intention can transform even the most anxiety-inducing moments into opportunities for profound connection and healing. We discuss her pivotal experience on The Moth stage, how storytelling can be both freeing and healing, and how adults can rediscover their ‘inner knowing’ that deep sense of what’s right for them that so many of us learned to suppress. Stephanie and I also dive into the ways our families, cultural backgrounds, and even gender shape the stories we tell ourselves about who gets to have a voice. We talk about boundaries, why they’re for you, not other people and tackle the double standards that women often face when speaking up at work or at home. Stephanie offers powerful, practical advice on how to stop over-functioning and start setting boundaries that support your authentic self. Other highlights from the episode include: Why passion matters more than early “talent” in writing or public speaking How your internal narratives about your communication skills can help or hurt you Managing anxiety on stage (even if you’re an old pro) The healing power of sharing your truth, even when it’s hard How generational and cultural messages decide who “deserves” to be heard Spotting the difference between a personal shortcoming and a systemic issue The importance of context, intention, and curiosity in creating connection—at work, at home, or with a stranger in an Uber Strategies for reframing your definition of success (especially in the age of social media) The ancient and modern wisdom of tuning into your inner knowing, and who really deserves influence in your life If you want practical insights for reclaiming your voice, clearing out the stories that hold you back, and learning to trust yourself again, this episode delivers. Stephanie’s wisdom, warmth, and honesty make it a must-listen, whether you’re grappling with big life decisions or just want to show up more authentically in your daily conversations. Thanks for tuning in, as always. Don’t forget to check out the show notes for links to Stephanie’s book, her Substack, and how you can connect with her for coaching or speaking. And remember your voice has the power to change the world. Connect with Stephanie: Website: https://www.speirolo.com   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/speirolo/   Substack: https://speirolo.substack.com   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speirolo/#   TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speirolo   Book: https://a.co/d/04Ltuo3k Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Breaking the Silence: Overcoming Stage Fright and Sharing Your Story

  7. Sep 17

    Stop Getting Ignored: Three Sentences That Make Your Cold Emails Stand Out

    Have you ever sent a cold email that disappeared into the ether, never to be answered and wondered what you did wrong? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle that painfully common problem head-on and reveal the tiny but powerful shift that makes your outreach stand out from the delete pile. As your host, I'm drawing from years as a college professor and communication coach, and I start by sharing one of the most frequent messages in my own inbox: “Can I pick your brain over coffee for 15 minutes?” If you’ve ever sent that kind of request or received it you already know how uphill the battle for a reply can be. The truth is, most people have overflowing inboxes and little time to give to vague asks. But there’s good news: you don't need to send the perfect message; you just need to be different from the rest. There’s no guest this week, it's just me, guiding you through the concrete tactics and deeper mindset shifts that change how your emails land. I dig into the invisible factors that sabotage cold messages, from desperate undertones to the all-about-me approach that turns people off. Then, I introduce my Give First Formula, a simple, three-sentence structure that transforms your message from an ask to a value-driven exchange. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Why typos and awkward phrasing aren’t the real reason your cold emails get ignored The downside of clichéd openers like “I love your content” and “I’m a huge fan” The psychology of email overload and why you’re competing with hundreds of other requests Why “pick your brain” is vague, unfair, and guaranteed to get skipped How to make your message about the recipient, not you The three essential sentences of the Give First Formula: a value observation, a low-friction ask, and a genuine exit ramp Concrete examples of ineffective and effective cold emails The biggest traps people fall into like telling a long backstory, asking for too much too soon, and following up with “just checking in” How to follow up in a way that adds value rather than nagging Why structure, not talent or connections, is what gets you noticed and answered Finally, I challenge you to take one cold email you’ve been holding onto and run it through the Give First Formula to see the impact for yourself. And I tease what’s coming next week: how to follow up with someone after you finally get a response or meeting, so you stay top-of-mind without becoming a forgotten business card. If you want your voice to stand out and your outreach to get replies, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Stop Getting Ignored: Three Sentences That Make Your Cold Emails Stand Out

  8. Sep 14

    Boosting Youth Communication: Essential Soft Skills Every Teen Needs for Success

    Have you ever wondered why we spend so much time teaching kids math and science, but not how to introduce ourselves, hold a conversation, or handle rejection? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into the critical life skills that every young person needs but most are never formally taught. I’m Tim Newman, your host and a communication coach who believes that real success comes from mastering soft skills like communication, storytelling, public speaking, and the confidence to show up authentically. Today, I’m joined by Rob Heller, founder of the BOOST Youth Alliance. Rob’s mission is to equip young people with the essential life skills that set them up for success in every area of life. He started BOOST when he couldn’t find a program that taught his son the lessons he knew were crucial so he built his own. Rob brings decades of entrepreneurial experience and a deep commitment to mentoring youth, making him the perfect guest to discuss why communication and resilience matter now more than ever. In our conversation, we tackled the mistakes we make as parents when it comes to technology and the impact that screens and smartphones have on developing communication skills. Rob and I reminisced about how the world has changed with phones glued to our hands, it’s easier to lose out on face-to-face interactions and the benefits they bring. Rob shared how self-awareness is growing among today’s parents, but also that it’s a constant struggle to set boundaries around tech use. We explored the difference between protecting young people and preparing them for the real world. Rob described how BOOST addresses not just people skills and character, but also building a healthy mindset giving kids practical tools to deal with setbacks, acknowledge their mistakes, and build true confidence. We also discussed why skills like accountability, resilience, and the ability to hold a simple conversation are the missing pieces in most academic programs. During the episode, we covered: The real reason communication skills are missing from most high school curricula Rob’s journey building BOOST for his own family and now for countless others The impact of screens and technology on developing essential life skills How to set boundaries as parents (and model the right behavior ourselves) Why accountability and apologizing quickly matter so much for building trust and confidence The art of starting a conversation even for introverts Why employers care so much more about soft skills than technical ones Practical tips for greeting people, making eye contact, and remembering names The science behind why connecting with others feels so good (hint: it’s the chemicals in your brain) Tips for parents and educators to help young people practice these skills from an early age How BOOST’s 26 core skills help kids prepare for life, not just for school If you’ve ever wished your child or even yourself could confidently connect, communicate, and handle life’s curveballs with resilience, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Rob’s work through BOOST is helping a generation get back to the basics, and we agree, these are the missing courses we all need. To learn more about BOOST or connect with Rob, check out boostprogram.com, and don’t forget to grab his book, The Missing Course for Today’s Youth. And as always, if you want to overcome your own public speaking challenges, visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for free resources and courses. Let’s keep building confidence one conversation at a time! Connect with Rob: Website: https://boostprogram.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Boost_Program Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/boostkids Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boost_program/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@boost_program Book: https://a.co/0gKE15oT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Boosting Youth Communication: Essential Soft Skills Every Teen Needs for Success
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About

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! Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/timnewman

Information

  • Creator
    Tim Newman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    191
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Speaking With Confidence
  • Show Website
    Speaking With Confidence

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