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Have you ever wondered if it’s truly possible to rewire your brain for confidence—and finally break free from fears that hold you back? In this episode of Speaking with Confidence, I dive into the powerful world of hypnosis with certified hypnotherapist, speaker, and bestselling author Amy Koford. Together, we unravel what hypnosis really is, how it works, and ways it can transform not only our communication with others, but also the way we talk to ourselves.

We explore what led Amy Koford to hypnosis, including the pivotal moments and the “inner voice” that told her she was meant to help others in this way. Amy discusses how hypnosis goes far beyond the stereotypical portrayals in movies and television. She unpacks the science of trance states, theta brain waves, and how the subconscious mind can be retrained for breakthrough results. Whether it’s breaking a bad habit, boosting performance as an athlete, or conquering the fear of public speaking, Amy’s method emphasizes releasing limiting beliefs and replacing them with empowering ones.

I ask Amy about how hypnosis applies to speakers, communicators, and leaders. She draws a direct line between optimal athletic performance and high-impact communication, illustrating how both require clearing out fear, rewriting mental scripts, and visualizing success. We also touch on the challenges faced by self-proclaimed “control freaks” and how hypnosis can help uncover and heal the root causes of that need for control.

Here’s what we covered in our conversation:

• Amy’s path from personal struggles with depression to becoming a hypnotherapist
• What hypnosis actually is (and isn’t), debunking myths from pop culture
• How theta brainwaves allow for direct subconscious reprogramming
• The role of hypnosis in changing habits (like quitting sugar or smoking)
• How Amy helps athletes “clear the garbage” of past mistakes and perform with confidence—and how this same approach empowers public speakers and communicators
• The release-and-replace method for eliminating internal blocks and installing new, confidence-boosting beliefs
• Why we care what others think and strategies to overcome insecurity in high-stakes moments
• The importance of self-talk and the transformative power of the words “I am”
• A behind-the-scenes look at Amy’s bestselling book, Hardwired to Rise, and why tackling fear is at the core of healing and communication
• Practical exercises for taking out the “mental trash” and refocusing on what you truly want

Whether you’re looking to overcome stage fright, let go of self-doubt, or simply get out of your own way, this episode is packed with wisdom, real-world examples, and actionable steps you can use to build rock-solid confidence.

If you’re ready to take that next step, check out Amy’s resources at amykofoard.com and don’t miss her book, Hardwired to Rise, for deeper strategies on tackling fear and unlocking your most confident self. And as always, visit speakingwithconfidencepodcast.com for your free eBook and more resources to help your voice make an impact. Your confidence is closer than you think—sometimes, it just takes the right mindset shift.

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