Have you ever wondered why some conversations flow easily while others feel completely off — even when you’re trying your best? It all comes down to communication.
In this insightful episode of Her Unshakeable Confidence, Simone and Olivia sit down with communication expert and author Maria Garaitonandia to explore what truly strengthens (or complicates) our connections with others. From cultural awareness to face-to-face interactions to the confidence that comes from lived experience, Maria shares practical tools for communicating with clarity and compassion.
This episode is a reminder that every conversation is an opportunity — and your confidence grows each time you choose connection.
✅ Actionable Takeaways
• Real Confidence Comes From Experience
You’ve done hard things before — past wins can help you face new challenges with more trust in yourself.
• Embrace Face-to-Face Connection
In-person conversations deepen relationships and create stronger rapport than digital communication alone.
• Small Talk Builds Social Skills
Even quick interactions strengthen your “connection muscle” and make communication feel more natural.
• Ask for Help — It’s Not Weakness
People want to support you. Asking builds connection, reduces fear, and opens new opportunities.
• Your Communication Style Shapes Relationships
Awareness, cultural understanding, and curiosity lead to healthier interactions in work and life.
• Don’t Fear Repetition — People Aren’t Tracking Every Detail
Most people haven’t read or remembered your past stories. Sharing them again is perfectly okay.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 — Welcome & The Value of Real Human Connection
02:52 — How Culture Shapes the Way We Communicate
09:41 — Why Face-to-Face Conversations Matter
14:20 — Social Skills, Small Talk & Building Confidence
20:34 — Lessons Learned From Living Abroad
25:42 — The Role of Asking for Help
31:12 — Trusting Your Experience as You Grow
37:43 — Why Maria Wrote Untangling Communication
42:22 — What Confidence Really Means
44:18 — Final Reflections on Truth & Communication
✨ About Maria Garaitonandia
Maria Garaitonandia is a communication consultant, keynote speaker, and author of Untangling Communication. With over 25 years of experience in cross-cultural leadership, she has coached teams and executives across the U.S. and Mexico, helping them build stronger relationships through clearer, more empathetic communication.
Her expertise centers on bridging cultural differences, strengthening workplace dynamics, and teaching leaders how to communicate with purpose and confidence.
Connect with Maria:
Website:
https://www.mariagaraitonandia.com
http://www.globalbridgestraining.com
LinkedIn: Maria Garaitonandia
Instagram: @mariagaraitonandia
YouTube: Maria Garaitonandia
Untangling Communication: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FP8C7HRS
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