How to Not Say "Um"

How to Not Say "Um"

From How To! with Charles Duhigg by How To!

March 31, 2026 · 44 min

About this episode

Mike Pesca discusses strategies to eliminate filler words in speech with guests Nate Silver and Michael Chad Hoeppner.

Relying on filler words like "um," "like," and "you know" is a universal habit that clutters our speech and betrays our nerves, but simply willing yourself to stop only makes the problem worse. Today on How To!, Mike Pesca is joined by renowned data journalist and author Nate Silver, who bravely steps up as the guinea pig to have his own fast-talking, filler-heavy conversational style diagnosed in real-time. Then, communications coach Michael Chad Hoeppner, author of Don't Say Um , steps in to break down the physical mechanics of communication—treating speaking as an athletic act—and offers actionable, kinesthetic strategies like "catching the ball" and "walking the fingers" to help anyone slow down, pause, and speak with confident precision. Executive Producer Corey Wara Edited by Geoff Craig Booking by Ben Astaire Do you have a burning question or a problem you need help with? Email us at [email protected] and we will consider your topic for the show. For full Pesca content and updates, check out our website at https://www.mikepesca.com/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To receive ad-free content, become a Pesca Plus subscriber at ⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://subscribe.mikepesca.com/ For Mike's daily takes on…

People in this episode

Host: Mike Pesca

Guests: Nate Silver, Michael Chad Hoeppner

Topics covered

  • communication
  • filler words
  • public speaking
  • speech improvement
  • confidence

Keywords

  • um
  • filler words
  • communication skills
  • public speaking
  • speech techniques

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Peach Fish Projects

More episodes of How To! with Charles Duhigg

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the How To! with Charles Duhigg podcast page.