Why You Use Filler Words And How to Stop Them

Why You Use Filler Words And How to Stop Them

From The Public Speaking Podcast by David JP Phillips & Lucas Reuterstig

April 22, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

The episode explores the reasons behind filler words in speech and offers practical advice on how to manage them.

In this episode, Lucas and Alex dive into one of the most common habits in speaking filler sounds. They break down why words like “um,” “uh,” and “you know” show up in the first place, and what’s actually happening in your head when they do. The big realization? It’s not just about bad habits,  it’s about thinking, pressure, and how you handle silence. They talk about: Why filler sounds appear when you’re thinking or unprepared How they instantly affect your credibility and attention The difference between removing them and controlling them Why going “perfect” can actually make you sound less human A simple exercise you can try to become more aware of them This is a practical and honest conversation about something everyone does, but very few people are aware of. If you’ve ever listened back to yourself and thought “why do I sound like that?” This episode will change how you hear your own voice. Follow us on social media Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headgain.co/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thepublicspeakingchannel Website: https://headgain.com/ Join our community Free skool community: https://www.skool.com/beginner Paid skool community…

People in this episode

Hosts: Lucas, David JP Phillips, Lucas Reuterstig

Guest: Alex

Topics covered

  • filler words
  • public speaking
  • communication skills
  • credibility
  • self-awareness
  • thinking under pressure

Keywords

  • filler sounds
  • public speaking tips
  • communication
  • self improvement
  • speech habits
  • credibility
  • thinking process

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: The Public Speaking Podcast, headgain.co, The Public Speaking Channel, skool.com

More episodes of The Public Speaking Podcast

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Public Speaking Podcast podcast page.