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Your brain might be sabotaging your listening skills, and you don’t even realize it.

In this solo episode, Tim Newman dives into the five most common listening mistakes that quietly destroy relationships, teamwork, and trust. From the sneaky dopamine hit that pulls the conversation back to you to the science behind why your brain zones out mid-sentence, this episode unpacks the hidden habits that keep us from being powerful communicators.

Backed by neuroscience and loaded with actionable fixes, you'll learn:

• How to use the “two-second pause” to instantly improve leadership communication
• Why even a face-down phone can drop conversation quality by 32%
• How asking verification questions increases team innovation by 22%
• Why removing distractions can help you reclaim public speaking confidence in everyday conversations

Whether you're leading a team, speaking to a crowd, or connecting with a friend, these small changes in listening habits can radically improve how people respond to you.

Which mistake are you ready to fix first?

Call to Action:
Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers (and How to Overcome Them), and register for the Formula for Public Speaking course. Because your voice—and your listening—has the power to change the world.

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What do a sports statistician, a leadership coach, and a master storyteller have in common? A powerful understanding of what truly makes communication effective.

In this episode of Speaking With Confidence, I welcome Kirk McCarley, executive career coach, ESPN talent statistician, and self-proclaimed "wealthy man" (thanks to his relationships, not his bank account). Kirk shares how his behind-the-scenes role in live broadcasting taught him lessons that apply far beyond the sports world, especially about presence, preparation, and the power of listening.

From stories of maraschino cherry theft to lessons from a beloved neighbor, this episode dives deep into what it really means to be a powerful communicator. It’s not about saying more—it’s about listening better, slowing down, and connecting with intention.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why active listening skills are your #1 communication tool
• How technology is killing connection, and how to fight back
• What leadership communication looks like in daily life
• Why “being present” is more powerful than being polished
• How overcoming imposter syndrome starts with preparation, not perfection

Kirk’s take on communication is both grounding and inspiring, reminding us that our greatest influence doesn’t come from speaking louder, but from listening more deeply.

Connect with Kirk:

theseedsowercoach.com
kirkmccarleyauthor.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirk-mccarley-1bbba950/
https://www.instagram.com/kirkmccarley/
https://www.facebook.com/KirkMcCarleyTheSeedSowerCoach/

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and start building the confidence you deserve.

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Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
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Ever been told to “just focus harder” in a conversation?

That advice doesn’t just miss the mark, it overlooks the superpowers hidden in how the ADHD brain works.

In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, Tim Newman flips the script on conventional communication strategies and shares science-backed techniques that align with how ADHD brains naturally function. From rapid-fire thinking to memory gaps and impulsive interjections, Tim reframes these common traits not as barriers, but as opportunities for transformation.

You’ll learn:

• Why ADHD brains process language up to 20x faster, and how to adjust for it
• The 2-second pause that boosts perceived competence by 37%
• How nonverbal signals can reduce interruptions by 62%
• A 3-word memory trick that can increase recall by up to 80%
• How to turn impulsivity into authenticity in every conversation

This isn’t about “fixing” communication, it’s about rewiring your approach so it works with your brain, not against it. Whether you live with ADHD or lead someone who does, these insights offer practical tools to create more meaningful, effective conversations.

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and start building the confidence you deserve.

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
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Ever feel like the fear of public speaking is holding you back from being the leader, teammate, or communicator you know you can be?

In this episode of Speaking With Confidence, Tim Newman welcomes Harriet Bratt—international speaker, firewalk facilitator, and fierce advocate for authenticity—to unpack what it really takes to become a powerful communicator.

From walking across fire to navigating ADHD, Harriet shares how confidence isn’t about being fearless, it’s about feeling the fear and showing up anyway. Together, Tim and Harriet dive into active listening skills, leadership communication, and storytelling techniques that help speakers, and humans show up more fully in every room they enter.

This isn’t just about presentation skills development. It’s about transforming how you connect with others, lead with love, and own your voice on stage and off.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How firewalking becomes a metaphor for overcoming fear of public speaking
• Why ADHD can be a superpower in powerful communication
• Tools for emotional management and building self-awareness
• The truth about overcoming speaking anxiety (spoiler: it’s messy and real)
• What “leading with love” actually looks like in personal and professional communication
• Why honest feedback and knowing when to shut up are underrated superpowers
• How to embrace authenticity without losing your edge

Whether you’re prepping for your first keynote or simply trying to speak up with more clarity and confidence at work, this conversation will help you tap into the mindset, strategy, and soul of effective communication skills.

Connect with Harriet:

Grab Harriet’s free masterclass on the 5 Pillars of Public Speaking at harrietbratt.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/harrietbrattspeaker/
Speak with Soul - public speaking group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/HBWarriors

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/harrietbrattspeaker/

Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/harriet-bratt-429b1b1a6/

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and start building the confidence you deserve.

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
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That awkward tension you feel when the camera turns on? It’s not a sign you’re bad at speaking, it’s your body trying to help. In this solo episode, Tim Newman breaks down one of the most common confidence killers in modern communication: camera anxiety. Whether you’re recording a 60-second update or giving a virtual keynote, your nervous system is along for the ride. But with a few mindset shifts and setup tweaks, you can turn those nerves into powerful communication tools.

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up consistently with presence, purpose, and a message worth listening to.

What You'll Learn:

• Why your brain mixes up fear and excitement, and how to use that to boost your public speaking confidence
• How poor lighting and audio sabotage your message (and how to fix it without buying a studio)
• Box breathing and the “power pause” in calming nerves and commanding attention
• How body language and strategic gestures silently build trust and credibility
• Why consistent, imperfect action beats waiting for the “perfect” take every single time
• The 21-Day Video Challenge that will take your presentation skills to the next level

Tim’s Take:
Being a powerful communicator isn’t about flawless delivery. It’s about authentic presence, consistent practice, and learning to lead even when your hands are shaking. Stop waiting to feel ready, just press record.

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and start building the confidence you deserve.

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
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What does it truly take to become a powerful communicator in today’s world? On this episode of Speaking With Confidence, host Tim Newman sits down with Shirlee Engel, seasoned TV reporter turned on-camera coach, to unpack the tools, mindsets, and effective communication skills that bring authentic connection to every conversation, far beyond just public speaking.

Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, or growing your influence online, Shirlee shares how to master leadership communication, develop active listening skills, and overcome those confidence hurdles (yes, even the dreaded imposter syndrome and speaking anxiety). Spoiler: The secret has less to do with memorizing scripts and more with showing up as yourself.

You’ll learn how storytelling, authenticity, and embracing imperfection can transform presentations, video content, and daily conversations into powerful moments of connection and impact. Tune in for practical advice to:

• Build public speaking confidence, even if you’re not on a stage
• Use storytelling techniques as your “currency” in a noisy, AI-driven world
• Master the art of showing up authentically (camera “resting face” and all!)
• Repurpose content and leverage technology for presentation skills development
• Turn your presence into profit through strategic visibility and messaging

Key Takeaways

• It’s Not Just About Public Speaking: Powerful communication is about how you connect, listen, and share your story across every channel, from Zoom calls to videos and live events.
• Authenticity Is Your Superpower: Shirlee explains why embracing imperfections and showing your human side create true connection—and why storytelling is more critical now than ever.
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Anxiety: Both Tim and Shirlee get candid about their own struggles with confidence, sharing tips for breaking through self-doubt and putting yourself out there.
• Actionable Techniques for Any Communicator: Discover practical ways to build confidence on and off-camera, structure your message, and ensure every interaction—whether leading a meeting or posting online—leaves a lasting impact.

Connect with Shirlee Engel

https://www.youtube.com/@ShirleeEngel

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirlee-engel/

https://www.instagram.com/be.camera.confident

http://www.sizzlereelschool.com/

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
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Formula for Public Speaking
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Are your conversations interrupted by the constant buzz of notifications? In today’s world, digital overwhelm has reshaped not only how we interact, but our very brains—fragmenting focus, empathy, and genuine connection. This week on Speaking With Confidence, Tim Newman dives deep into the real cost of screen-driven distractions and offers practical strategies to reclaim your ability to be a powerful communicator in every interaction that matters.

If you want to sharpen your active listening skills, cultivate effective communication skills, and develop true leadership communication, this episode is for you. Tim explores the latest research on digital habits, attention spans, and what it takes to rebuild the human connection that turns everyday conversation into a force for influence.

In This Episode:

• Why “multitasking” is damaging your storytelling techniques (and what works better)
• The neuroscience behind digital distractions—and how it chips away at public speaking confidence, empathy, and memory
• How to overcome speaking anxiety and imposter syndrome when it feels like everyone’s always “on”
• What the “goldfish effect” means for real-world communication skills and how to break the cycle
• Practical steps to increase confidence in public speaking by practicing better presence and attention in your daily life
• How tech boundaries spark more meaningful, memorable conversations—at work, at home, and everywhere in between
• Small, science-backed habits for lasting presentation skills development (you don’t need to quit tech cold turkey!)

Key Takeaways:

• Being a powerful communicator isn’t just about public speaking—it’s about showing up, listening, and connecting in every conversation.
• Simple shifts, like device-free meals and analog breaks, help you gain back focus and emotional depth.
• Leadership communication hinges not on quantity, but quality: better communication is the secret to better relationships.
• Progress, not perfection. Even imperfect changes lead to measurable improvements in your attention span, memory, and the confidence you bring to every interaction.

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and start building the confidence you deserve.

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
Speaking With Confidence
Formula for Public Speaking
Facebook

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Ever feel like your brain is in a constant game of tug-of-war between clarity and your notifications? You’re not alone, and this week’s Speaking with Confidence episode is for you.

I’m joined by Craig Mattson, communication professor and organizational researcher, for a conversation that’s part public speaking class, part digital detox, and all about powerful communication in a tech-heavy world. Together, we dig into how digital overwhelm is hijacking our attention and what we can do to get it back, without swearing off technology completely.

Craig brings storytelling, research, and real conversations with Gen Z and millennial professionals to the table as we explore:

• How to communicate effectively across generations without falling into the “kids these days…” trap
• Why interpersonal skills are harder—but more important—than ever in today’s tech-driven workplace
• The surprising power of analog practices like journaling to anchor your focus and build self-knowledge
• How to set workplace boundaries with confidence and clarity
• What it means to shift from being a spectator to a performer in our digital lives—and why it matters for personal and professional development

This isn’t just about public speaking, it’s about becoming a powerful communicator who knows how to show up, stay present, and build real relationships… even in a world of pings, posts, and pressure.

Whether you're a team leader, educator, or just trying to survive your inbox, this episode will help you reclaim your attention and communicate with purpose.

Tune in now and let’s get confident, one conversation at a time.

Links & Resources:

https://www.themodeswitch.com

https://themodeswitch.substack.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-mattson-bb861445

Visit TimNewmanSpeaks.com to grab your free resource, The Top 21 Challenges for Public Speakers and How to Overcome Them, and start building the confidence you deserve.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

Want to be a guest on Speaking With Confidence? Send Tim Newman a message on PodMatch
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Formula for Public Speaking
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