Have you ever noticed how the way someone talks to you can either lift you up or shut you down? That’s the kind of real-life stuff we’re getting into with Michael Bernoff—an expert at helping people communicate better, lead with confidence, and actually connect. We talked about how just changing a few words in how you speak (yes, even to yourself) can totally shift how you show up in the world.

Michael’s the Founder of the Human Communications Institute and the Author of Average Sucks, and he has this way of making big ideas about performance and confidence feel incredibly doable. He shares how to help people around you feel proud of themselves (without taking the credit), how to handle fear when it shows up, and why finding your own lane in a noisy world matters more than ever. It's not theory—it’s real advice you can try the next time you’re in a tough conversation or feeling stuck. Honestly, his take on public speaking anxiety alone is worth the listen.
Whether you're running a business, raising kids, or just trying to figure yourself out a little more each day, this episode will speak to you. Give it a listen, and you might just start talking to yourself (and everyone else) a little differently.
Key Timestamps:
[00:00:00] Welcome to Inside the Speakeasy Podcast
[00:04:58] The Power of Communication
[00:06:51] Average sucks! A Mindset Shift
[00:09:23] Journey to Becoming a Highly Sought Speaker and Coach
[00:14:48] Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety
[00:20:40] Navigating Overwhelm in a Complex World
[00:22:53] Empowering Communication and Community Engagement
Memorable Quotes:
"The goal is how do we empower the people in our lives so our lives get easier because we have empowered people." [00:18:12] – Michael Bernoff
"Manipulation is only a negative word if you make it that way." [00:20:02] – Michael Bernoff
Connect with Michael Bernoff:
Website: https://michaelbernoff.com/core-live/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael_bernoff
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michaelbernoff
Connect with Eric Berman:
Website: https://speakeasymastermind.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakeasymastermind/
Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/speakeasymastermind/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericberman/
Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com