Michael Chad Hoeppner, a communication expert and author of 'Don't Say Um', shares secrets to speaking with clarity and confidence. He stresses that delivery trumps content in effective communication. Listeners learn the impact of filler words and the importance of mindful pauses and proper breathing. Hoeppner also discusses the pitfalls of speaking coaching, especially for leaders, while emphasizing the transformative role of posture in communication. Packed with practical strategies, this conversation is a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their speaking skills.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Avoid Self-Conscious Communication
Avoid focusing inward and becoming self-conscious when communicating in high stakes situations.
Focus your attention outward to the audience to maintain confidence and clarity in delivery.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Finger Walking to Reduce Fillers
Use "finger walking" to slow down and choose words carefully while speaking.
Walk your fingers forward with each word and pause if unsure of what to say next.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Balance Awareness with Improvement
Use both negative reinforcement and positive strategies to reduce filler words.
Increase awareness of filler usage and replace them with purposeful words.
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In 'Don't Say Um,' Michael Chad Hoeppner offers a unique approach to communication training. The book includes simple-to-master physical exercises designed to improve speaking skills quickly. Hoeppner challenges traditional notions of good speaking techniques and provides powerful tools to become a master communicator. The book is praised for its practical advice and has been endorsed by various professionals, including a presidential candidate and a CEO, for its effectiveness in improving public speaking and confidence.
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This book, first published in 1989, outlines seven habits that are designed to help individuals become more effective in their personal and professional lives. The habits are grouped into three categories: Private Victory (habits 1-3), Public Victory (habits 4-6), and Renewal (habit 7). The habits include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking first to understand and then to be understood, synergizing, and sharpening the saw. Covey emphasizes the importance of personal integrity, effective time management, empathetic communication, and continuous self-improvement[2][5][4].
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Michael Chad Hoeppner, communication expert and author of Don’t Say Um: How to Communicate Effectively to Live a Better Life, shares practical tools for becoming a more confident, intentional speaker. Drawing from years of coaching C-suite executives and presidential candidates, he explains why delivery—not content—is what makes or breaks communication. From filler words and mumbling to posture, breath, and pausing, this conversation is packed with strategies to help you ditch self-consciousness, speak with precision, and connect more powerfully in every conversation. Whether you're giving a speech or ordering salad dressing, this episode will help you show up—and speak up—better.
FranklinCovey On Leadership with Scott Miller 
