Oooo that's a tough one. What you want to do is try adding an easier sound in front of the difficult sound. Maybe an H (which isn't that much easier) or even S. Maybe F hhhhhApple or sssssApple or fffffApple (lol fapple) So you'd call and they'd answer: 'Hello, to whom am I speaking' 'My name is ssssAmanda. I'm calling about the place for rent.' etc etc etc The ssss sound does need to be loud, just enough to get your speech rolling. The person on the other end likely won't even hear it, and if they do it's still better than dead silence. Hope that helps, I feel your terror. I learned this from just a couple sessions with a speech therapist which I'd recommend anyone try out if they can. Probably better than listening to some random dude on the internet :)