197: You’re Not Lacking Confidence. You’re Waiting Too Long | Jonny Pardoe

If you’ve ever felt held back by self-doubt or wanted to unleash your voice, this energizing episode is for you. Host Damon Lembi sits down with Jonny Pardoe, international podcast host and men’s mental health advocate, to break down the real journey from self-criticism to self-confidence—and how podcasting can transform both your mindset and your leadership presence. Jonny brings soulful honesty about his own struggles and shares the simple-but-powerful systems he’s used to build one of the world’s top self-esteem shows, with over 3.3 million downloads. 

Get a masterclass in launching (and growing) your own podcast, building self-belief, and beating the traps of overthinking. Whether you’re a leader wanting to speak with more impact, or someone who’s ready to find their voice, Jonny’s practical tips will help you step up, take action, and serve a wider audience—starting today. 

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• Why taking action—no matter how imperfect—is the real key to building confidence 
• How to break out of “paralysis mode” and reclaim your self-esteem (with Jonny’s go-to tools for when you get stuck) 
• Jonny’s fast-track formula for launching a successful podcast, from finding your driver to nailing your hook 
• Why role models and mentors matter—and how to “borrow” their mindsets without falling into the comparison trap 
• The secrets behind Jonny’s podcasting growth: consistency, clarity, and listener-first thinking 
• Quick mindset routines (like “the King Hour”) to boost daily self-talk and leadership energy 

Timestamps: 

00:00 – Charisma, self-drive, and the power of role models 

01:25 – Jonny’s journey: From self-doubt to leading a top confidence podcast 

04:09 – Revisiting the cringe (and pride) of the very first episode 

06:44 – Overcoming analysis paralysis: Why action beats thinking 

08:50 – When self-esteem hits rock bottom—and how Jonny bounced back 

11:55 – Digging deep: How to create drive for lasting change 

13:03 – The right way to “role model” (without losing yourself) 

17:03 – Jonny’s definitions: Self-esteem vs. confidence 

19:00 – How to reprogram toxic self-talk (with daily systems) 

22:33 – Podcasting for therapy or for impact? Jonny’s honest start 

24:18 – Advice for leaders: How (and why) anyone can begin podcasting 

27:40 – Who can be a podcaster? Why your story matters 

30:55 – How podcasting leveled up Jonny’s leadership and communication skills 

33:16 – Three simple success tips for growing your podcast audience 

38:56 – The crucial value of a strong episode “hook” 

39:54 – Getting guests to actually share your episode 

43:07 – Solo versus interview episodes: What gets more traction? 

44:40 – Should you do video and audio? Jonny’s recommendation 

45:04 – The biggest self-esteem lesson Jonny has learned (and his final podcasting tip) 

48:42 – Where to find Jonny online 

About Jonny Pardoe

Jonny Pardoe is the host of the Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset podcast, with over 3.3 million downloads and a loyal global audience. An advocate for men’s mental health, Jonny is known for his transparent approach to building self-esteem, sharing both his struggles and successes since launching the show in 2019. He combines his background in project management and sales with real-life personal growth tools, helping thousands find their voice and lead with more authenticity. As a podcast coach, Jonny empowers others to launch, grow, and own their stories—proving anyone can reach a global audience. 

Resources & Mentions: 

• Jonny Pardoe’s Instagram 
• Jonny Pardoe on LinkedIn 
• Jonny’s podcast: Self Esteem and Confidence Mindset 
• Tom Webster’s book: The Audience is Listening 

Podcast Contact Information: 

Website: www.learnit.com 

Email: podcast@learnit.com 

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