Unlocking True Confidence: How Self-Talk and Trust Can Transform Public Speaking

Have you ever wondered why confidence seems to slip away right when you need it most? Or if it’s really possible to change how you feel about yourself and your abilities no matter how long you’ve struggled? On this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive into the roots of real confidence, the power of self-talk, and how science and faith come together to help us show up as our best selves. I’m Tim Newman, and today I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Laurette Willis, a cognitive behavioral therapist, speaker, mentor, and founder of Weight Loss Without Willpower and Praises Moves Fitness Ministry. Laurette’s journey from childhood struggles with overeating and self-image to empowering women and men around the world to find strength without shame brings a wealth of wisdom and practical tools to our conversation. We kick things off by unpacking what confidence really means. As Dr. Laurette explains, the word itself comes from the Latin “confidere” to have full trust. She shares how true confidence is about leaning your full weight on your trust on something greater than yourself, and why this “trust” is the opposite of fear, especially for people whose greatest challenges show up right alongside their greatest gifts. We both get personal about our own experiences with stage fright and imposter syndrome even after years of professional speaking and performing. Dr. Laurette opens up about growing up with negative self-talk and how completely changing what she said to herself transformed not only her feelings but her results in life. I reveal my ongoing struggles with self-doubt, despite being able to help others navigate the same thing, and we both talk about how, even as coaches, we need outside support to keep our inner voices in check. Throughout the episode, we explore: The roots and true meaning of confidence How fear often attacks our greatest strengths The five-step chain that links self-talk to results Practical neuroscience: how your brain can and does change (neuroplasticity!) Myths about “overnight” change and why patience with yourself matters How your environment and the people around you shape your mindset and outcomes The power of habits, big and small, to rewire your brain and your life Dr. Laurette’s story of feeling most “herself” on stage, and how improv taught her trust Using faith-based practices and scripture to ground confidence A powerful cognitive-behavioral exercise to physically “cast off” worry and take on peace The science behind victory celebrations, positive self-talk, and dopamine hits for change Why believing in others before they believe in themselves can be life-changing A hands-on bilateral brain stimulation technique for cutting through fear or cravings in seconds The practical, lifelong value of mentorship, support, humility, and helping others up the ladder How to speak life into yourself and others (and why that matters more than you think) By the end of our heartfelt, hope-filled talk, you’ll walk away with a practical toolkit for tackling fear, reframing your inner dialogue, and stepping up to life’s stage with true confidence rooted in trust, humility, and real support. If you’re ready to break out of old cycles, speak with boldness, and help others do the same, this conversation with Dr. Laurette Willis will inspire you from the inside out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices