The Unscripted Challenge - Why Difficult Conversations Feel Harder Than Public Speaking

The Unscripted Challenge - Why Difficult Conversations Feel Harder Than Public Speaking

6:06 Sep 8, 2025
About this episode
Public speaking is rehearsed, scripted, and predictable. But what about theconversations we can’t plan—the ones that take unexpected turns, stir emotions,or shift roles on the spot? In this episode of The Unscripted Challenge, we explore why real-life conversationsoften feel harder than stepping onto a stage—and how you can navigate them withmore confidence.ReferencesAfifi, W. A., & Weiner, J. L. (2004). Toward a theory of motivatedinformation management. CommunicationTheory, 14(2), 167–190. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2885.2004.tb00310.xKaneko, A. (2024). Communication apprehension in the workplace: The role ofposition and facilitation skills. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly. Advanceonline publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/23294906241295696Lillie, T., Venetis, M. K., &Chernichky-Karcher, S. (2023). Resilience communication mitigates thenegative relational effects of topic avoidance: Evidence from parentalcaregiving and COVID-19 pandemic contexts. Personal Relationships, 30(4), 1252–1273. https://doi.org/10.1111/pere.12508McCroskey, J. C., Beatty, M. J., Kearney, P., & Plax, T. G. (1985). Thecontent validity of the PRCA-24 as a measure of communication apprehensionacross communication contexts. CommunicationQuarterly, 33(3), 165–173. https://doi.org/10.1080/01463378509369595
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