Sound and Look more Confident: Tim Newman

Breaking the Fear of Judgment Overcoming the Fear of Public Speaking: Baby Steps to Confidence

Episode 243 (Tim is based in Hilton Head, South Carolina)

In this conversation we explore:

1. The Root of Public Speaking Fear – Understanding why the fear of judgment holds so many back.
2. How to Overcome Stage Fright – Proven techniques for managing nervousness before and during a speech.
3. The Role of Preparation in Confidence – Why practicing like an athlete is the key to success.
4. How to Sound and Look More Confident – Simple strategies to project confidence, even when you don’t feel it.
5. Mindset Shifts for Public Speaking Success – How small mental adjustments can transform your speaking ability.
6. Why Mistakes Make You More Relatable – The surprising way imperfections help connect with an audience.
7. Engaging the Audience from the Start – Effective opening techniques that grab attention immediately.
8. The Power of Storytelling and Rhetorical Questions – How these tools captivate listeners and keep them engaged.
9. The Importance of Audience Research – Why knowing your audience should come before crafting your message.
10. Using Personal Rituals to Reduce Anxiety – How a ‘walk-up song’ or a simple pre-speech routine can boost confidence.

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About our guest, Tim Newman:

Tim earned a Doctorate in Education in Sport Management from the United States Sports Academy and has been teaching at the undergraduate and graduate level for over 20 years. His expertise is is Sport Marketing and Public Relations.

He created the Formula for Public Speaking to help young professionals become better communicators.

You can check out his course at Formula for Public Speaking 

Use the coupon code YIM50OFF to save 50% on this course.

Follow the Speaking with Confidence Podcast

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Key Learning Points from the Podcast

1. Fear of Public Speaking Stems from Fear of Judgment

   • Many speakers fear being judged, but most audiences want to see the speaker succeed.

2. Nervousness Never Truly Disappears—Learn to Manage It

   • Even experienced speakers and athletes feel jitters; preparation is key to handling them.

3. Practice is Essential—You Wouldn’t Compete Without Training

   • Just like in sports, speaking success comes from consistent preparation.

4. Mindset Shift is Critical to Confidence

   • A change in mindset, from fear to purpose, helps speakers become more effective.

5. Mistakes Are Natural and Can Help You Connect with the Audience

   • Audiences appreciate speakers who push through struggles rather than appearing perfect.

6. Engagement Starts with the First Two Minutes

   • A strong opening sets the tone; use questions, humor, or audience acknowledgment.

7. Preparation and Authenticity Create a Confident Sounding Voice

   • Know your content, be yourself, and avoid trying to change your natural voice.

8. A Walk-Up Song or Ritual Can Help You Get in the Right Mindset

   • Just like athletes have pre-game rituals, speakers can use music or mental exercises.

9. Storytelling and Rhetorical Questions Engage the Audience

   • Beginning with a thought-provoking question or story draws people in immediately.

10. Audience First: Know Who They Are Before Crafting Your Message

• Content should be tailored to the audience, not just what the speaker wants to say.

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