Episodes

  • Overcoming Cultural Barriers to Confident Communication

    Overcoming Cultural Barriers to Confident Communication
    Jul 27 2026
    Have you ever wondered what it really takes to reinvent yourself in a brand-new culture, and how that experience can transform your confidence and communication? This week on Speaking with Confidence, I dive deep into this question with our incredible guest, Ana Denis, a public speaking and communication coach, TEDx organizer, and the brilliant author behind “Reinvento.” This episode is all about starting over, building your identity from the ground up, and the hidden challenges and surprising rewards of trying to fit in while staying authentically you. I had the privilege of speaking with Ana Denis, who shares her personal story of moving from Russia to the Netherlands, tackling cultural differences, and what it’s like learning to communicate sometimes literally in a whole new language and set of values. We dug into Ana Denis’s journey as both an entrepreneur and a newcomer, where she had to face the reality of feeling like a “professional idiot” (her words!), admitting you don’t know anything, and letting go of the ego to start learning from scratch. We talk about how language and cultural differences aren’t just logistical challenges they hit at the core of your sense of belonging and your identity. Ana Denis has been there, felt the friction between collectivist and individualist cultures, and had to let go of the comfort of the familiar to build a new home, both personally and professionally. Some of what we cover in this episode: The shock of cultural differences even within Europe and how they challenge your worldview Why learning the local language goes far beyond practicality and is a gateway to true connection and trust Ana Denis’s personal journey of losing her safety net, building from scratch, and finding belonging in the expat community The role of asking questions, embracing not knowing, and letting go of ego when starting over Gendered societal messages and their impact on women’s confidence and willingness to speak up at work The danger of labels cultural, political, and personal and how they limit genuine human connection How to build real influence and trust, both as a speaker and as a newcomer in a different country The power of directness, consensus, and open dialogue in Dutch culture, and what we can learn from it The importance of active listening, curiosity, and putting relationships first regardless of status or background This conversation is packed with practical wisdom for anyone facing a big transition, working across cultures, or just wanting to show up with more clarity and confidence in their communication. If you’re ready to stop playing small, question the narratives you’ve been told, and actually reinvent how you show up, this episode is for you. We also talk about where you can find Ana Denis’s work, including her book “Reinvento” and the Reinvento Club for those ready to build communication skills or begin again in a new place. Tune in for heartfelt stories, actionable advice, and maybe a little push to take your own next bold step. Your voice matters and so does how you reinvent it. Connect with Ana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ana-denis/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIAZJzumdHkVbD5913kBQDA Website: https://anadenis.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • The Three-Second Move That Boosts Confidence and Calms Any Conversation

    The Three-Second Move That Boosts Confidence and Calms Any Conversation
    Jul 23 2026
    Have you ever wondered why absorbing other people’s emotions seems to drain your energy, and yet rarely solves the problem at hand? In today’s episode of Speaking with Confidence, we’re diving into the real reason “feeling their pain” might actually be holding you back, and I’m sharing a simple, tactical move that works better and keeps you in control. I’m Tim Newman, your host, a recovering college professor turned communication coach. Through years of working with clients, students, and teams, I used to believe that being a great communicator meant soaking up everyone else’s emotions. I’d match their energy, carry their stress, and walk away completely depleted and still facing the same challenges. Sound familiar? It took me a long time and guidance from negotiation expert Chris Voss to realize that this approach was not only exhausting, it was also ineffective. In this episode, we explore the difference between emotional empathy where you feel what others feel and get swept away by it and tactical empathy, which is all about understanding others’ emotions without losing yourself in them. You’ll hear how Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, used tactical empathy to defuse high-stakes situations by naming the emotion in the room with precision, not by absorbing it. We’ll walk through real examples from my own teaching days and coaching work, breaking down how simply labeling someone’s fear or frustration can disarm tension and open up productive conversations. I also point out the crucial final step that most people miss embracing silence after you drop your “label,” instead of rushing to explain or defend yourself. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why emotional empathy depletes your energy but rarely solves the root problem The neuroscience behind why naming an emotion helps people and yourself think more clearly How tactical empathy is different, and why it puts you in control The exact three-second “labeling” move: “It seems like…”, “It sounds like…”, “It looks like…” A breakdown of what makes a label effective versus what falls flat How to handle uncomfortable silences and why they’re key to making this work A simple homework assignment to practice this life-changing skill in your next challenging conversation By the end of this episode, you’ll be equipped with a powerful new approach for every situation where tension or defensiveness runs high without burning out in the process. Remember, progress, not perfection, is what moves us forward. Try out this tactical empathy tool this week and see how quickly your conversations shift. Your voice truly has the power to change the world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    13 mins
  • Building Bridges Across Generations: Leadership and Communication Skills for Lasting Impact

    Building Bridges Across Generations: Leadership and Communication Skills for Lasting Impact
    Jul 20 2026
    How do we actually bridge the generational gap in communication and empower younger leaders to show up with confidence? That’s exactly what we’re tackling in this episode of Speaking with Confidence. I’m Tim Newman, your host and communication coach, and today we’re diving deep into what it means to lead, learn, and grow not just as professionals, but as people who want to make a positive impact on those around us. With Gen Z and millennials set to dominate the workforce by 2030, most leaders still haven’t cracked the code on how to connect with and motivate them. We’re going to change that. Joining me is Robin Lewis, host of the Big Life podcast, leadership coach, transformational speaker, and business strategist. Robin is all about helping purpose-driven business owners lead with clarity, build with focus, and create organizations that truly last. He brings not just expertise, but real stories and actionable frameworks from his own journey growing, stumbling, and ultimately becoming a leader who helps others do the same. In our conversation, Robin shares powerful analogies drawn from his life as a new grandparent, reminding us how we all start life eager to learn, unafraid to fall, and willing to try again. We explore how that spirit is too often lost as we grow and what it takes to reclaim it as leaders. Together, we break down reasons why young adults sometimes forget how to communicate honestly, how bottling up ideas becomes learned behavior, and what leaders can do to reverse that cycle by making people feel seen, heard, and valued. Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode: Why reclaiming a childlike hunger for learning and risk-taking matters in leadership The critical role of being seen, heard, and valued in communication, no matter your age How communication breakdowns aren’t always generational they’re often personality-based Robin’s “Lead to Last” framework and how he developed it after hitting a wall in his own business What separates leaders who say they have purpose from those who truly live it The importance of clarity of self, overcoming limiting beliefs, and defining your core values How to mentor the next generation to think introspectively and with intention Strategies for repairing and learning from failure as both leaders and parents The impact of collaborating instead of competing and finding commonality before difference Practical applications of DISC and other personality tools for team growth and better communication Whether you lead a business, a team, or your family, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and actionable steps to help you (and those you serve) become more authentic, resilient, and confident communicators. Thanks for joining us let’s keep building the kind of leadership that truly lasts. Connect with Robin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewisrobin/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Robinlewis411/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinlewisteam Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 mins
  • The Four Shifts Every New Manager Must Make to Succeed

    The Four Shifts Every New Manager Must Make to Succeed
    Jul 16 2026
    Ever found yourself promoted to a leadership position and suddenly realizing you have no idea how to build authority without losing the respect of your team? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I tackle one of the most challenging transitions you can face at work: moving from peer to manager. I'm Tim Newmana recovering college professor turned communication coachand today we're diving into what really happens when you go from being "one of the team" to leading the team. There’s no guest joining me this week; it’s just you and me unpacking the real obstacles and actionable solutions for new leaders navigating this tricky shift. We all know that being promoted is exciting but it can also be disorienting. One day, you’re sharing complaints over drinks, the next, you’re the one in charge, trying not to repeat the mistakes of managers you once criticized. I break down the hard truth: many companies get management promotions wrong 82% of the time, leaving you with the title, a small raise, and very little guidance on how to actually manage people without damaging relationships. That tension between being accessible and asserting real authority gets new managers stuck in what I call the “access trap.” In this episode, I share the three pillars of real authority, clarity, consistency, and accountability and explain why they matter more than being liked. I walk through four transformative shifts every new manager must make: setting and respecting boundaries, giving honest and direct feedback, using confident language, and tackling conflict early. Each shift comes with clear examples and advice for how to break out of the habits that quietly erode your credibility and relationships. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why pretending nothing has changed after your promotion only creates confusion The data behind why promoting top performers doesn’t always make sense for leadership roles How to avoid the “access trap” and be more than just a buddy with a title The three foundational elements of real authority (and what it’s not) The four skill shifts every new manager must practice: boundaries, feedback, language, and conflict Practical steps for having honest conversations that set a new tone for your team Why consistency is more important than charisma for building trust How to start small choose one shift and put it into practice this week If you’ve just made the leap into management, or you want to support someone who has, I promise this episode will leave you with clear, actionable steps you can use immediately. Remember, your former peers don’t need a friend wearing a manager’s badge, they need a leader who sets the standard with courage and clarity. Listen in and take the first step toward building authority that truly holds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    15 mins
  • How Dressing Well Boosts Your Confidence and Leadership Perception

    How Dressing Well Boosts Your Confidence and Leadership Perception
    Jul 13 2026
    How much does the way you dress really impact your confidence and the way others see you? That’s the question we dive into in this episode of Speaking with Confidence. On today’s show, we’re tackling one of the most overlooked yet transformative aspects of communication: your appearance. We often talk about content, delivery, and presence when it comes to confident communication, but what about the impact of what we wear? Whether you’re stepping into a new job, leading a meeting, or just trying to level up your everyday look, your wardrobe can be a powerful ally in building your leadership perception and feeling your absolute best. Joining me for this conversation are Caden Broussard and Jinny Chen, co-founders of Cello, one of the largest styling companies serving professionals especially men during big life transitions. Their team of stylists partners with clients to help them dress with both confidence and executive presence, demystifying the connection between clothing, self-image, and professional results. We kicked things off by reflecting on a big realization: so many people struggle with style not because they lack fashion sense, but because it feels like a confidence problem. Caden Broussard shared how, despite working hard and achieving corporate success, feeling uncomfortable or inappropriately dressed could undermine their belief in themselves. Jinny Chen pointed out that most people reach for the same clothes because comfort breeds confidence, something confirmed by research, including fascinating studies on how what you wear can affect your performance and self-perception. Here’s what we covered in this conversation: Why style is really about confidence, not just fashion Instant first impressions, the “halo effect,” and scientific studies on performance and clothing Cultural challenges men face around asking for style advice Why transitions like promotions or new jobs often spark the need for a wardrobe rethink The three key elements anyone can adjust right now for a better perception How clothing fit impacts confidence more than you might think Why self-expression matters, and how to sneak it into a professional wardrobe The hidden challenges of dressing appropriately post-pandemic and in hybrid workplaces Psychological barriers to cleaning out your closet and why this step is crucial How Cello uses technology, including AI and professional stylists, for effortless, confidence-boosting style Tips for building outfits for every occasion, from formal to casual, and why “uniforms” can work both for and against you Whether you’re someone who’s always in a blue shirt (guilty as charged!), or you’re just looking for ways to feel more confident and make a positive impression, this episode will give you plenty to think about and some simple steps to act on right away. Connect with Caden & Jinny: Caden LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caden-broussard-90985a90/ Jinny LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jinnychen/ Website: https://cellocloset.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellocellocloset Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Why Difficulty Is the Filter, Not the Barrier

    Why Difficulty Is the Filter, Not the Barrier
    Jul 9 2026
    Have you ever wondered why things never really seem to get easier, no matter how much you improve? Why does every step of progress seem to bring a new kind of challenge? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dig into the real role of difficulty in growth and communication and challenge the myth that hard things are just barriers standing in our way. I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and today I want to let you in on a lesson that took me much longer to learn than I care to admit: hard isn’t the enemy. It isn’t something to run from or wait out. In fact, hard is the very thing that filters out the competition, exposes what we really know, and drives the lasting growth we all want. Today we’re pulling wisdom from thinkers like John Maxwell and even some military wisdom to unpack how our mindset about challenges determines whether we stall or move forward. I open up about my own history of waiting for the moment when things would stop being difficult and how everything changed when I realized that comfort doesn’t arrive on schedule, and that growth lives inside the struggle itself. In this episode, I cover: Why most people treat difficulty as a bad sign and the mindset shift to seeing it as a filter, not a barrier The military’s “embrace the suck” philosophy and why the difficulty never really ends (it just changes shape) John Maxwell’s ideas about evaluated experience and how simply enduring hard things isn’t enough you have to reflect The danger zone: what happens when difficulties pile up and why most people fall apart not because things get harder, but because their relationship to hard doesn’t change The real perspective shift: seeing difficulty as proof you’re in the arena, not as something that’s being done to you Why growth only happens in discomfort and how to train yourself to look for the lesson instead of resenting the pain Three practical ways to change your relationship with hard things right now, from reframing setbacks to learning how to welcome discomfort as a signal you’re on the right track If you’re tired of waiting for things to get easier or wondering if you’re doing something wrong just because you’re struggling, this episode is for you. Let’s shift your mindset, reframe your experience with difficulty, and get you confidently moving through the hard stuff, not around it. Remember: the people who win aren’t the ones who found a shortcut they’re the ones who got comfortable being uncomfortable. Progress, not perfection. Let’s get to work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    14 mins
  • How Asking Questions Builds True Communication Confidence

    How Asking Questions Builds True Communication Confidence
    Jul 6 2026
    What if the secret to real confidence in communication isn’t about having all the right answers, but about asking better questions? Welcome back to Speaking with Confidence! I’m Tim Newman, your host and a recovering college professor turned communication coach. In this episode, we dig deep into the misconception that confidence means certainty and flip the script to show how the best communicators are defined not by what they know, but by how curious they are. Joining me today is Michael Ashford, a dynamic communication and leadership coach, longtime marketing executive, and two-time TEDx speaker. Michael Ashford is passionate about empowering people to communicate in ways that traditional education rarely touches, helping us inspire change, drive action, and resolve conflict more effectively in our lives. Together, we explore Michael Ashford’s journey from nearly failing out of college as an engineering major to finding his true path in journalism, a shift that taught him the importance of aligning passion, curiosity, and personal fulfillment. He shares how letting go of other people’s expectations and finding his own voice became foundational to his confidence and success. Here’s what we cover in this episode: The false belief that confidence requires always being right and what true confidence really looks like Michael Ashford's honest story of personal and academic failure, and how curiosity led him to a career aligned with his values The pivotal role of communication skills in every aspect of life and leadership Why the education system fails us by prioritizing certainty over curiosity and the ability to ask better questions How to break out of the sunk cost fallacy in careers, relationships, and heated debates The impact of information overload and social media on our ability to trust, listen, and connect The practical power of curiosity how asking more questions shifts conversations, builds trust, fosters empathy, and increases genuine confidence Tips for anyone wanting to be a better communicator today: ask more questions, get curious about your own motivations, and embrace the “power of the pause” before responding How true introspection and questioning our own beliefs lays the foundation for alignment, fulfillment, and lasting confidence This episode is packed with real talk, actionable strategies, and stories you can relate to whether you want to communicate better at work, defuse conflicts at home, or just find your own unique voice. Dive in, and discover how you can become the curious, confident communicator you’re meant to be. Connect with Michael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeldashford/ Website: https://michaelashford.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldashford YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@michaeldashford Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 mins
  • How to Become the Most Influential Person in Any Room in Just 13 Minutes

    How to Become the Most Influential Person in Any Room in Just 13 Minutes
    Jul 2 2026
    Have you ever sat through a meeting and wondered why the loudest voice in the room seems to dominate yet rarely drives any real influence? In this episode of Speaking With Confidence, I’ll answer a question that impacts every professional gathering: If it’s not the loudest voice that wins the room, what actually does? I’m Tim Newman, a recovering college professor turned communication coach, and today I’m pulling back the curtain on what really makes someone the most influential person in the room. Spoiler: It’s not volume, and it’s not vocabulary. After years in boardrooms, classrooms, and meetings of every kind, I’ve seen firsthand and struggled through myself the pitfalls of overcomplicating messages, hiding behind jargon, and talking just to fill the silence. The result? You risk becoming background noise, no matter how many slides or big words you pack in. Today’s episode is all about becoming the person who can say the one thing everyone is thinking but can’t quite put into words. I’ll walk you through research-backed truths on attention spans, the brutal math of memory retention, and the real cost of poor communication in the workplace. We’ll talk about why clarity is the most valuable currency you can bring to a group, and how being a clarifier trumps being the show-off or the non-stop talker every single time. I’m sharing the three habits that will make you the clarifier in any room, and you’ll walk away with tools you can use in your very next meeting. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why the loudest person is rarely the most influential and what actually creates influence The attention span cliff: what happens at minute 15 and why 18 minutes is a magic number The science of memory retention and why going long costs you credibility The “8th grade rule” for simplifying your message The staggering cost of poor communication in organizations Three habits to make you the architect of any conversation: the two second pause, the one sentence summary, and the clarifying question Practical examples and questions you can use to shift from noise-maker to problem-solver instantly If you’ve ever left a meeting frustrated because you didn’t feel heard or wondered why your great idea didn’t seem to stick, this episode is for you. Join me to learn how being a clarifier, not a commentator, will make you the most influential person in every room you enter. And remember: You don’t need a new personality, just a handful of simple tactical switches to start commanding attention and guiding conversations with confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 mins