How Introverts Can Thrive on Stage and in Networking Events with Michael Pope

Have you ever wondered how introverts can thrive on stage and conquer self-doubt, even when anxiety and imposter syndrome are in the way? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, we dive deep into the journeys, frameworks, and behind-the-scenes realities of overcoming hesitation so you can step up and speak out—no matter how nervous you may feel.

Today, I’m excited to welcome my friend Michael Pope: an international keynote speaker, leadership coach, and author of Doers Win the Day. Known as the Hesitation Breaker, Michael Pope brings over two decades of IT and leadership experience, having transformed software developers into adept people developers. His expertise centers on productivity, overcoming hesitation, and equipping high achievers and introverted professionals with the tools they need to succeed.

We kick things off by sharing a personal connection—bonding over being family men and the pride that comes with watching your children achieve big milestones, like earning black belts in karate. This leads us into a powerful conversation about authenticity, storytelling, and why sharing about our families matters in building trust and relatability in both professional and personal lives.

From there, we explore the unique challenges introverts face when the spotlight is on. Michael Pope opens up about his process for “recharging on demand” after high-energy engagements and the importance of being present and available to audience members after events—even if it feels uncomfortable at first. We also discuss practical networking strategies, like attending events with a purpose-driven list of connections, and why you must add value to others before asking anything in return.

A major highlight of our conversation is imposter syndrome and the excuses that creep in. We talk candidly about those moments of hesitation—like almost inviting a dream guest on the show but never quite hitting send. Michael Pope shares how personal development, joining Toastmasters, and intentional frameworks shifted his own confidence, transforming him from a silent problem solver at work to an impactful voice on major stages.

Throughout the episode, we unpack Michael Pope’s signature DOER framework (Discipline, Opportunity, Eliminate Excuses, Responsibility) and how it applies not just to speaking, but to every area of personal and professional growth. He gives real-life examples of stretching outside your comfort zone, preparing for high-stakes talks (and recovering when things go wrong), and the importance of coaching and mentorship—no matter how seasoned you become.

We also touch on why celebrating small wins matters far more than we often realize. Michael Pope gets vulnerable about his journey, sharing lessons from pivotal moments—like wishing he’d spoken up at his grandfather’s funeral, a story that inspired a key theme in his book.

Here’s what we cover in this episode:
Why sharing personal stories (especially about family) builds trust and relatability
Strategies for introverts to thrive on stage and in back-to-back networking environments
The necessity of approaching events and networking with a clear, value-driven purpose
The DOER framework and how to use it to push through hesitation, excuses, and fear
Real talk on imposter syndrome and actionable ways to move past it
How joining Toastmasters and investing in coaching can fast track your progress
Surprising lessons from sharing the stage with legends like Les Brown and learning from mentors like Roddy Galbraith
The process of preparing for a major keynote event—from understanding the client’s goals to practicing with intention
When technology fails: staying cool, calm, and professional under pressure
The power of recording yourself and constructive self-feedback for brand-new speakers
Why celebrating small wins every day fuels growth and momentum for the long haul

If you want to find your authentic voice, build rock-solid speaking habits, and finally stop holding yourself back, you’ll want to listen to every minute of this episode. Tune in, take notes, and remember: your voice has the power to change the world—but only if you’re brave enough to use it.


00:00 "Presence Beyond Introversion"
06:08 "Finding Mutual Value Proposition"
08:08 "Personal Growth Through Toastmasters"
13:04 "Mastering Keynote Structure"
14:58 "Les Brown's Lasting Impact"
20:23 "Frameworks Over Goals"
20:51 "Discipline and Opportunity in Speaking"
25:37 Overcoming Fear to Honor Grandpa
29:22 "Take Responsibility, Take New Steps"
33:02 "Preparing for Impactful Speaking"
34:24 "Framework Planning for Presentations"
39:45 "Helping Others Through Mindset"
42:41 "Presentation Tips for Beginners"
45:48 "DOER Framework to Book"
48:41 "Celebrate Daily Wins"
51:30 "Speaking Confidence Resources"