English Talk — Speaking up in English at work for introverts with Louise Jefferies — Podcast

Ep 61 Confidence Without the Act Finding Your Authentic Voice with Helen von Dadelszen 09.09.2026 44min

What if trying to sound confident is actually getting in the way of confidence?In this episode, I talk to communications and vocal coach Helen von Dadelszen about finding your authentic voice rather than trying to perform confidence. We explore voice, nerves, accents, identity and the small courageous actions that help us speak up before we feel ready.A conversation about sounding like yourself, trusting your voice and communicating with greater confidence and impact.You can Connect with Louise here: https://www.louisejefferies.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-jefferies-8495a274/https://www.youtube.com/@LouisejeffferiescoachingLouise's book Enough: https://preview.mailerlite.io/forms/475403/190876035828418299/shareAnd with Helen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-von-dadelszen https://www.instagram.com/present_potential?igsh=a3p0NXNxMnlwYzM5 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB_2NMosqJQBBiv5ux3mYHghttps://courageousaction.ch/

Ep 60: Don't Be the World's Best-Kept Secret with Susan Heaton-Wright 29.07.2026 50min

How many talented people stay invisible simply because they've been taught not to "show off"?In this inspiring conversation, Louise and communication specialist Susan Heaton-Wright explore why so many capable professionals hold themselves back, especially women, introverts and multilingual leaders.Susan shares her remarkable journey from being told as a child to stay in the background to becoming an award-winning opera singer, TEDx speaker and international communication expert. Together, Louise and Susan discuss how our early beliefs shape our confidence, why leadership presence has nothing to do with being the loudest person in the room, and how communication is a skill that can be learned rather than a personality trait.They also explore:Why meetings are a performance, but never an actThe hidden strengths introverts bring to leadershipWhy multilingual professionals often underestimate themselvesHow to stop dismissing compliments and own your achievementsPractical strategies for speaking up in meetings with confidenceThe importance of preparation, posture and purposeHow to build authentic executive presence without pretending to be someone you're notWhether you lead a global team, present your ideas to senior stakeholders or simply want to communicate with greater confidence, this episode offers practical tools and a refreshing reminder that your voice deserves to be heard.As Susan says: "Don't be the world's best-kept secret. The world needs you."Watch Susan's TED talk on your tube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mQ-0Z8v9gMg

Ep 59 What's Really Holding You Back? with Madeleine de Hauke 16.07.2026 47min

In this episode, I sit down with executive coach and former medical doctor Madeleine de Hauke for an honest conversation about fear, confidence and what really stops talented people from reaching their potential.Madeleine shares the deeply personal story behind leaving medicine after qualifying as a doctor, revealing how fear and self-doubt shaped one of the biggest decisions of her career. Together, we explore how fear often disguises itself as perfectionism, overthinking, procrastination or "logical" decision making, preventing us from speaking up and becoming visible.We discuss why high-achieving leaders, particularly multilingual professionals and introverts, often struggle with confidence despite years of experience. We also look at the role of trauma, the nervous system, and why small, consistent steps are often more effective than trying to eliminate fear altogether.Other topics include:Why fear is a normal biological response rather than a weaknessThe connection between perfectionism, shame and self-worthSupporting multilingual leaders who work across languages and culturesWhy senior leaders still experience imposter feelings after promotionsThe importance of preparing for high-stakes conversationsHow coaching accelerates confidence and leadership developmentMadeleine's concept of "Owning Your Awesome"Why understanding yourself is the first step towards authentic leadershipWhether you're an introvert, a multilingual professional, or someone who's ever questioned whether you're good enough, this conversation offers practical insights and reassurance that confidence isn't about eliminating fear. It's about learning to work with it.

Ep 58 The Hidden Cost of Overthinking at Work with Linda Terry 27.06.2026 54min

Why do so many capable professionals replay conversations long after they've ended?In this episode, I'm joined once again by coach Linda Terry to explore the overthinking, rumination and self-doubt that many scientists, leaders and high achievers experience, especially when working in a second language.Together we discuss why perfectionism can be both a strength and a burden, how cultural and language differences add another layer of complexity to workplace communication, and why anxiety is often misunderstood.We share some practical insights on recognising when you're caught in a stress response, learning to separate yourself from difficult emotions, and understanding the difference between healthy reflection and unhelpful rumination.Whether you find yourself replaying meetings at 3am, worrying about how you came across, or struggling to switch off after difficult conversations, this episode offers a compassionate and thought-provoking perspective on what might really be happening beneath the surface.Key topics in this episode include:Why scientists and high achievers are prone to overthinkingThe link between perfectionism and ruminationWorking and leading in a second languageAnxiety, stress and emotional awarenessThe difference between "I am anxious" and "I feel anxiety"How coaching helps uncover blind spots and strengthsRecognising the early signs of burnoutDeveloping greater self-awareness and self-compassion

Ep. 57: The Habits Keeping You Small with Luke Mathers 23.05.2026 58min

Why do we keep repeating behaviours that no longer serve us?In this episode, I’m joined by author and speaker Luke Mathers to explore the hidden habits, labels, and beliefs that quietly shape how we show up in life and at work.We talk about:why many habits are really forms of self-protectionhow labels like “introvert” or “anxious” can become limiting identitiesthe difference between confidence and arrogancewhy curiosity is one of the most powerful tools for growthhow assumptions and miscommunication create stress in workplaces and relationshipsWe also explore the idea that even our strengths can become defence mechanisms, and how the behaviours that once kept us safe may now be keeping us stuck.This episode is thoughtful, honest, and full of moments that may make you question the stories you tell yourself about who you are.If you’ve ever thought:“That’s just how I am…”…this conversation is for you.

Ep. 56: Stop Hinting. Start Asking. with Elizabeth Bachmann 07.05.2026 38min

Ep. 56: Stop Hinting. Start Asking. with Elizabeth BachmannYou’re doing great work.But are you actually being heard?In this episode, I’m joined by Elizabeth Bachmann, former opera director turned executive communication coach, to unpack a pattern that keeps many talented professionals invisible at work.We explore why hinting doesn’t work, why being “obvious” to you isn’t obvious to others, and how unclear communication quietly blocks opportunities.You’ll learn:• Why people don’t respond to hints, only to clear asks• The hidden gap between what you think you’re saying and what others hear• How early experiences shape your confidence and communication style• Why facts alone won’t get you buy-in and what to do insteadIf you’ve ever thought, “They know I’m ready”… this episode will challenge that assumption.🎧 Tune in to learn how to communicate in a way that gets you seen, heard, and taken seriously.You can connect with Elizabeth at: https://elizabethbachman.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethbachman/You can connect with Louise at:https://www.louisejefferies.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-jefferies-8495a274/

Ep.55 Why You’re Not Speaking Up and What It’s Costing You with Dagmar Albers 23.04.2026 46min

In this episode, I’m joined by Dagmar Albers, who spent over 20 years in pharma and successfully reduced a company’s gender pay gap from 15.9% to 6.6%.But this conversation isn’t really about pay.It’s about what actually holds capable professionals back from stepping into more senior roles, especially when working in a second language.We explore the patterns that quietly limit visibility and progression, even when the expertise is there.In this episode, we discuss:• Why the gender pay gap is more about progression than pay• The difference between equal pay and structural imbalance• Why many professionals wait too long before speaking up or applying• The hidden cost of downplaying your achievements• How imposter syndrome shows up at senior levels• Why language mistakes feel bigger than they are• The link between visibility, confidence, and career progression• Cultural differences that can amplify self-doubt at work• What needs to change in organisations and what needs to change individuallyIf you’ve ever held back in a meeting, second-guessed your voice, or felt like others are more confident than you, this episode will challenge that assumption.🎧 Tune in to hear a more honest conversation about confidence, communication, and career progression in international environments.#IntrovertLeaders#NonNativeEnglish#SpeakUpAtWork#CareerConfidence

Ep54 Hard Power vs Soft Power Leadership with Beverly McCluskey 06.04.2026 42min

This episode communications coach Beverly McCluskey and I challenge common assumptions about leadership, communication, and confidence at work.We discuss the difference between “hard power” and “soft power” leadership, why resilience is often misunderstood, and how introverts and non-native English speakers can lead effectively without forcing themselves into a more extroverted style.If you’ve ever felt pressure to speak perfectly or act differently to be taken seriously, this episode will show you a more sustainable and authentic way to build presence and influence.

Ep 53 The Quiet Advantage: Elevating Introvert Leaders with David Boroughs 21.03.2026 45min

What if everything you were told about needing to speak up, be more visible, and "put yourself out there" was actually the wrong advice?In this episode I speak with David Burroughs, retired corporate leader and author of The Extrovert's Guide to Elevating Introvert Leaders in the Workplace, about the hidden personality bias that quietly holds introverted talent back, not because introverts lack ability, but because the system was never designed with them in mind.We explore:Why changing yourself to fit the culture is exhausting and ultimately ineffectiveHow well-meaning leaders accidentally shame the very people they're trying to includeWhat small but powerful shifts organisations can make to unlock introverted talentWhy diversity without belonging is meaninglessIf you've ever felt like you were performing a version of yourself just to be taken seriously, this episode is for you.

Ep 52 Why Science Needs Better Communicators with Arijana Filipic 08.02.2026 44min

In this episode, I’m joined by Arijana Filipic to explore why strong communication is no longer optional in science.We talk about what sits beneath presentation skills, why fear of speaking is often mistaken for a lack of ability, and how storytelling helps people follow scientific thinking. We also discuss the risks of asking scientists to be more visible without giving them the support to feel safe and confident using their voice.A thoughtful conversation about voice, trust, and what science needs if it’s to be truly heard.You can contact Arijana via her website: https://arijanasacademy.com/

Ep 51 From Complex Science to Clear Messages with Sonya Snedecor 25.01.2026 40min

In this episode I talk with Sonya Snedecor about turning complex science into clear, influential messages. We explore why clarity builds trust, how focusing on the “why” helps research get recognised, and what holds scientists back from speaking up. If you're interested in working with Sonya you can find out more about her newsletter The Ambitious Scientist.here: https://science-clarity.com

Ep50: Speaking Up in Science with Tamas Sohajda 04.12.2025 49min

Why do so many brilliant scientists stay silent and what does it cost?In this episode, I speak with Tamas Shohajda about fear, introversion, misinformation, and why LinkedIn is the safest place for scientists to start sharing their work.A must listen for anyone who knows they should speak up, but hesitation keeps winning.

Ep.49 When Stage Fright Hits the C-Suite with Peter Novak 24.10.2025 54min

Even senior leaders and seasoned experts can feel their confidence vanish the moment they speak in English under pressure. In this episode, Louise Jefferies and executive speaking coach Peter Novak explore why stage fright is so common, especially for non-native speakers and what actually helps.They discuss why “calm down” is the wrong advice, how to reframe anxiety as excitement, and why authenticity always beats performance. A grounded, honest conversation about turning fear into focus and finding your true voice in high-stakes situations.

Ep 48 The Strengths of a well socialised Introvert with Charlotte Boujassy 04.10.2025 39min

What does it take for an introvert to thrive in leadership? In this episode, Charlotte Boujassy, Director of Talent Development, shares how she learned to navigate networking, public speaking, and career growth as a “well socialised introvert.”We discuss the limits of “fake it until you make it,” why genuine connections matter more than technical skills, and how introverts can turn their natural strengths into a powerful leadership advantage.🎧 Listen now to discover how introversion can fuel authentic leadership and sustainable career success.

Ep 47 Speaking with Empathy with Dr Amira Koraiem 29.08.2025 39min

In this episode of English Talk, I’m joined by Amira Koraiem to explore how empathy shapes the way we connect and communicate at work. We talk about the hidden barriers behind language perfectionism, inner mental chatter and fear of judgement... and why empathy, both for ourselves and others, is the real key to speaking with confidence.

Ep 46 From scared stiff… to TEDx with Douglas McCloskey. 09.08.2025 45min

Think confident speakers are born that way? Think again. In this episode, Douglas shares how anyone can train for confidence like athletes train for sport. Together we discuss how ditching scripts, harnessing fear, and learning to speak with authority is possible without pretending to be an extrovert.

Ep 45 Leading Without Loudness with Patrick Bartosch 19.07.2025 51min

Can introverts succeed and even lead in an extrovert-friendly workplace?In this episode, Patrick Bartosch shares how he learned to act extroverted when it matters, why it’s not about being fake, and how introverts can recharge, communicate effectively, and get heard without burning out. Practical insights, personal stories, and a reminder: you don’t need to be perfect ... just prepared.

Ep44 What If Selling Was Just Being Honest? with Max Gibert 05.07.2025 43min

It’s not that selling is bad. It’s the way we approach it that causes the anxiety. The overthinking. The self doubt. But what if selling didn’t mean pushing yourself? What if it meant creating a space for truth with no agenda? That’s something introverts are wired for... They just need to see it differently.

Ep Ep 43 Advancing Your Career as an Introvert with Patrick Bartosch 20.06.2025 51min

Introverts often feel overlooked in the fast-paced world of Pharma & Biotech. Patrick Bartosch and I discuss how to balance authenticity with visibility, use communication as a career lever, and build leadership presence... even if speaking up isn’t your natural style.

Ep 42 Chat GPT interviews me about my work 08.06.2025 23min

As an experiment I uploaded all my social media accounts and marketing material and asked Chat GPT to interview me as if it were a potential client wanting to know more about me and how I work. The episode isn't scripted, I had no idea what it was going to ask me but I think you might find some of its questions interesting!