Have you ever wondered why, no matter how hard you try, you can’t just “be confident” especially when your hands are shaking and your mind is racing? If so, you’re not alone, and you’re exactly who this episode is for. Today on Speaking with Confidence, we’re tackling the reality behind what it means to build, lose, and rebuild true confidence especially for those who’ve faced serious self-doubt, bullying, or lived experience with mental health challenges. I sat down with the remarkable Hufsa Ahmad licensed therapist, scientist, award-winning mental health advocate, behavioral health consultant, and two-time TEDx speaker. She’s uniquely known for blending science, clinical wisdom, and sharp humor, turning even life’s lowest points into stepping stones for growth and resilience. In this episode, Hufsah opens up about her journey from being a happy, curious child to enduring relentless bullying, depression, and defining periods of isolation. She shares how a suicide attempt as a child and ongoing battles with mental illness and the stigma attached eventually pushed her to hit rock bottom. From there, she didn’t just rebuild her confidence; she reframed her entire relationship with herself and those around her. Highlights from our conversation: How early life experiences and bullying shaped Hafsah’s self-image and how she turned the corner The gritty process of learning to care less about what others think, even in the face of online hate and real-world rejection The impact of social media on social confidence, and why stepping away transformed her focus and well-being The difference between “performing confidence” and actually feeling it, and how to spot the difference Why humor is a tool for healing, connection, and resilience and how anyone can start using it Tactics Hafsah uses to reframe negative self-talk and rewrite the narrative after setbacks The most common myths anxious speakers believe, and evidence-based ways to challenge them What crowd work and comedy taught her about real presence in public speaking Practical steps every anxious speaker should stop doing immediately and what to do instead The power of not taking things personally, and why audience reactions aren’t always about you If you’ve ever felt crushed by criticism, paralyzed by anxiety, or frustrated by the advice to “just be confident,” this episode will give you actionable wisdom, a few laughs, and a whole new way to think about resilience on and off the stage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.