In this episode of The Path We Choose (TPWC), host Umer Farooque sits down with Karol Ward, TEDx speaker, author, and expert coach specializing in confidence, communication, and self-awareness. Karol is best known for her powerful TEDx talk “Finding Your Voice”, where she explores how authentic self-expression can unlock personal and professional transformation. In this deeply insightful conversation, Karol shares her journey—from a childhood shaped by constant relocation and family challenges to becoming a performer, therapist, and coach helping people reconnect with their true selves. This episode goes far beyond surface-level motivation. It dives into the psychology of confidence, the physical nature of emotion, and why self-awareness is the real foundation of success. Karol explains how our bodies store experiences, why silence feels uncomfortable, and how learning to truly connect can reshape everything from public speaking to leadership to personal relationships. This conversation is packed with actionable insights for students, professionals, leaders, and creatives who want to communicate with clarity, build real confidence, and show up authentically in every area of life. If you follow thought leaders like Brené Brown, Simon Sinek, or Mel Robbins, this episode is a must-listen. It’s not just about speaking better—it’s about understanding yourself, trusting your voice, and building meaningful connections. Timestamps: Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction: The Hidden Secret of Success 00:00:47 The Path of Connection: Growing Up Military 00:02:29 From Dysfunction to Discovery: The Journey to Psychology 00:05:36 Breaking the Myth: Confidence Is Not Static 00:07:55 Building the Foundation: The How Come Before the How To 00:12:19 The Confidence Crushers: Choosing Your Circle Wisely 00:15:20 Protected Time: The Power of Disconnecting 00:17:57 Compliment Linking: Feeling Your Accomplishments 00:34:41 Finding Your Inner Voice: Good Feelings, Bad Feelings 00:41:18 Chronic Worry vs Situational Worry: Understanding the Difference 00:30:30 Communication Under Pressure: The Power of the Pause 00:52:31 Boundaries and Energy: Slow Down to Speed Up 01:03:14 The Right People in Your Corner: Do the Work What you’ll learn in this episode: Why self-awareness is the hidden key to success How confidence can be built (and rebuilt) over time The myth that you’re either confident or not How to stop freezing during public speaking or presentations The role of the body in communication and emotional expression How to use silence and pause as powerful tools Chronic worry vs. situational fear Setting boundaries without guilt The importance of choosing the right support system How to move from fear to confidence through body, mind, and spirit Whether you’re preparing for your first job interview, struggling to speak up at work, or leading a team and want to connect more deeply, this episode will shift how you think about confidence, communication, and yourself. Self-awareness is the superpower. Connection is the path. And your voice—when you find it—can change everything. Follow Karol Ward: Website: https://karolward.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolward/ Follow Umer & TPWC: Website: https://thepathwechoose.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/umerfarooquee/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mumerfarooque/ TPWC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepathwechoosee/ Subscribe to The Path We Choose for more authentic conversations about identity, confidence, leadership, and personal growth.
