
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
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