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

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.

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

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.

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.

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/

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Kacie and I talk about the difficulty of measuring language level and progress, as well as how these skills often don't transfer from the classroom to the boardroom or team meeting, when you work in a second or third language in industries such as IT, Pharmaceuticals and Biotech where the working language is English.

Have you ever walked out of a meeting with your heart racing… not because you said too much, but because you didn’t fax anything at all? If so this episode is for you

What introverts process internally extroverts process more externally, how is that event possible? Of course this is a simplification of what's going on but it does give some insight as to how extroverts get more recognition. Introverts have a greater tendency to worry bout the impression the are giving to others. We worry that we're giving the impression that we're not interested or that we don't understand. That can result in a lot of mind chatter and stress.Join Jen and I as we discuss the and other topics of introvert life.

I the main complaint I hear from clients whether they’re coaching clients or language students is not having enough vocab.  Listen in as I talk about the 3 different causes for lack, one way to build you vocab and an alternative way to get better access to the vocab you already know without spending hours making vocab cards. You can download here: https://bit.ly/3NJ1iOi And apply to take Find out more about my Core Transformation anxiety study here:  https://bit.ly/4lnLgcf

There are a lot of people who feel they have to be more extroverted, be more loud and that can have a negative impact on how genuinely they come across. Listen in as we talk about authenticity and it importance in gaining trust in all areas of life.

When you’re an introvert, the part of the interview you probably dread most is the section on behavioural questions. Why? Because you can’t predict exactly what the question is going to be and because you have to talk about yourself, your skills and abilities. If you're dreading interviewing in English as an introvert listen in on tips on how to prepare.

Public speaking today is becoming more and more a non-negotiable skill. Find out why as I talk to Lisa Sheerin about the consequences of not speaking up at work.

Why do I care about introverted non-native speakers, especially introverted scientists? That's the topic of this week's episode as I present to you my motivation to working in this field.

Salvatore Manzi, a leadership communications coach with over 20 years of experience helping technical, analytical and introverted leaders amplify their influence and impact.  Join us as we talking how to network and present with confidence as an introvert.

As an introvert which coping mechanism do you use when faced with a stressful situation? Could it be that the method you use relates to the type of introvert you are? Listen in as I explain.

Too many introverts worry about perfection, the truth is that what you have is good enough. Not speaking up and sharing your ideas is a bigger crime than sharing them with imperfections.

To speak up as an introvert you need to find your passion, your love and for Lorena it was music and singing. What is it that gives you a reason to be heard?` Join me as we discuss this and more.

Scientists tend to be both introverts & perfectionists. They're in their own heads a lot and very used to being wrong. Their whole lives can be spent proving themselves wrong in the hope that one day a hypothesis is right. But proving yourself wrong in your hypothesis is easy in comparison to making language mistakes; that shouldn't happen. Listen in as Florian and I discuss this and other common traits and behaviours of introverts

Starting the new year I have some questions I usually ask myself to reflect on the passing year. Join me as I answer the questions and invite you to do the same. 1.     What good things have happened this year? 2.     What’s drained you of energy? 3.     What’s excited you? 6.     What are you avoiding? 7.     What does success mean to you? 8.     What do you want next success to be? 9.     What’s the biggest bottleneck to your next success? 10.  Where are you feeling satisfied in your life? 11.  Were are you feeling dissatisfied in your life?

Dr. Chandni Natalia Kumar founder of daily dose of honest science joint me this episode to talk about the importance of science communication and how it's been possible for her to discover her more extroverted side. Check out her YouTube channel here

This week I talk to Mark Andreas about Core Transformation as a techniques for reducing anxiety and facilitating change. You can find the research done my Mark on Core Transformation here: https://www.coretransformation.org/research/ 

This episode Linda Terry PhD is back with me to talk about how to not only listen to your inner critic, but to help it be a little less vocal!

What are the differences between introverts and extroverts? What's going on the in the head of an extrovert? and How can introverts and extroverts work together and support each other? Listen in as we discuss these as well as other questions.

I continue to teach English predominantly within the Pharma, Biotech and Radiological industry. This week I invited/coerced one of my groups to join me on the episode to discuss the challenges of communicating at work with multinational teams in English.

Paul helps exhausted IT managers rediscover their passion, so they can figure out what they ACTUALLY want. Join us as we discuss the similarities between introverts in IT and Pharma and Biotech and the challenges they all face speaking up at work.

Hervé works with overstretched leaders of Engineering SMEs to help them prepare their business so they can grow it successfully. He's also an introverted non-native speaker who's successfully navigated today's extrovert-centric working culture.

Thierry is a communications coach and teacher as well as a voice over artist and a non-native English speaker. Join us as we discuss the challenges that natives and non-native introverts face speaking up at work.

This week I talk to Dr Boris Adryan about the differences between introverts and extroverts and the responsibilities of both to ensure good team communication.

This week, it's just me and you. Join me as I answer some of the your most commonly asked questions about who I am and the work I do to helping non-native introverted HSPs start speaking up in English at work.

Sailo is a Psychological Counselor; she describes her calling as helping other adults understand and manage their emotions, so they can be in control of their thoughts and ultimately their behaviour. You can check out her website here: https://www.sailocounselling.com/welcome

Lora supports high-performing lawyers and business professionals in law, IT, finance, accounting, and coaching... she's also an introvert and HSP.

This week I talk to Carolin Moghimi about the importance, or not of accents when you speak.

Join Eszter my myself as we discuss how culture effects communication.

In this episode I talk with Cecile Hemery about what it takes to start public speaking as an introvert and the benefits of doing so.

This week I talk with Ex senior leader Alex Nunn about the challenges and benefits of being an introvert in a leadership position.

As a scientist and self proclaimed introvert Linda has lots of experiences and advice to share on speaking up at work.

What does it mean to be and extroverted introvert? Join me as I discuss this with my guest Adenyaiu Olomoa.

Join me as I talk with Peggy Cheyo about the challenges of being an introvert in an extrovert world and how culture and neurodiversity complicate things further.

In this episode I talk about why I work with introverted highly sensitive non natives in Pharma and Biotech.

This week I talk to Corina Ciubotaru about the challenges of speaking up in a foreign language as an introvert.