Unlocking Executive Presence: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Speaking with Confidence

What if what's holding you back from confident communication isn't a lack of skill, but an old story you've been telling yourself? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dig deep into the real roots of communication anxiety and discover why confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it's something you build, one small step at a time.

As your host, Tim Newman, I’m excited to welcome executive communication coach, keynote speaker, bestselling author, and founder of Uplevel Communication, Mike Acker. Mike’s journey is both remarkable and relatable: he overcame a speech impediment as a child, had to learn to communicate in a new language when he moved to Mexico, and eventually reinvented himself as a professional speaker and coach. His story is living proof that anyone can become a confident communicator no matter where you begin.

In our conversation, Mike and I explored the mindset barriers that stop even talented speakers from reaching their goals. We discussed why being “good enough” in one context doesn’t always mean you’re ready for the next stage, and the difference between being a good speaker and being a good communicator. Mike shared powerful analogies, like how compliments about a homemade hamburger don’t mean it’s ready to be sold in a restaurant, reminding us that comfort in one arena doesn’t guarantee success in another.

Here’s a look at what we covered in this episode:

The real difference between skill and confidence in communication

Mike Acker’s personal journey from speech impediment to professional speaker

Why natural talent (proclivity) and practice are both important and why practice always wins

How being a “good speaker” in one setting doesn’t mean you’re ready for the next challenge

The dangers of arrogance and apathy, and why caring for your audience creates energy and impact

How past wounds like ridicule in childhood or harsh criticism can hold you back, and how to identify and address them

The framework for starting and deepening conversations at networking events, including how to shift from feeling like an outsider to making real connections

Why “being more interested than interesting” is the underrated secret to building community and relationships