Be Truly Heard

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland is joined by finance professional, author and mentor Urmi Hossain for a thoughtful conversation about identity, confidence and why women need to say yes to more opportunities. Drawing on her experience as an Italian-Bengali woman working in the male-dominated world of finance, Urmi shares how mentoring, self-belief and representation have shaped her journey. Together, she and Anne explore imposter syndrome, reframing negative self-talk, the power of visualisation, and how women can lead with more confidence by owning both their voice and their story.Key TakeawaysBe the mentor you never had.Urmi’s drive to mentor women comes from her own experience of growing up without many role models who looked like her or shared her cultural background. She now supports women from a wide range of backgrounds, especially women of colour, by becoming the guide she once needed herself.You do not have to choose one identity over another.Urmi reflects on navigating two cultural worlds – Bengali and Italian – and the pressure to fit neatly into one label. Her breakthrough came when she stopped choosing and instead embraced both, confidently describing herself as Italian-Bengali in both personal and professional life.Representation matters in male-dominated industries.Working in finance has meant learning to advocate for herself, find allies and seek out mentors. Urmi believes staying visible in those spaces matters, not just for her own career, but for the women coming behind her who need to see that they belong there too.Reframing negative self-talk can change everything.One of Urmi’s core tools for helping women with imposter syndrome is reframing. Rather than getting stuck in thoughts like “I’m not good enough”, she encourages women to rewrite those internal messages into something more constructive and empowering.Vision boards are more than a creative exercise.Urmi uses yearly vision boards as a practical way to keep goals, values and ambitions visible. By putting dreams into images and words, she believes the brain starts working towards them, often before we consciously realise it.A mentor might already be in your life.Urmi introduces the idea of a “friendtour” – a blend of friend and mentor. Sometimes the people best placed to guide, encourage and challenge us are trusted friends who already understand our struggles, values and ambitions.Say yes before you feel fully ready.Her advice to younger women is simple but powerful: say yes to opportunities. Too often women hesitate because they doubt themselves or feel unprepared, but stepping outside the comfort zone is how confidence is built.Your voice and perspective are enough.Anne and Urmi both reflect on the cultural and generational expectations placed on women, but the message is clear: women are worthy of being part of the conversation, and what they have to say carries value.Best Moments“I want to be the mentor I never had.”“It wasn’t about fitting either world, but more about putting them together and embracing the two sides of it.”“No matter where I am, it’s because I belong there.”“We have so many negative self-talks… we’re always second-guessing ourselves.”“Once you put it in a vision board, your brain starts to work towards that.”“Who knows you better than your own friend?”“Say yes to opportunities.”“What we have to say as women is powerful and it’s enough.”About the guestUrmi Hossain is a personal branding strategist, speaker and author who helpsprofessionals and entrepreneurs show up as themselves with clarity, confidence andintention. With a background in corporate banking, she understands the challenges ofbeing seen and heard in professional spaces, and now supports others to build a strong,authentic presence both online and in real life.She is the author of Discover Your Personal Brand and is known for her practical,grounded approach to visibility, particularly on LinkedIn. Urmi’s work focuses on helpingpeople find their voice, communicate their value and step forward in a way that feelsnatural rather than forced.Through her writing, speaking and coaching, she empowers individuals to be more visible,so that they can create opportunities, build influence and grow their careers or businessesin a way that truly reflects who they are.Connect with the guestlinkedin.com/in/urmihossainpodcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/stories-beyond-borders/id1831413373womeninleadership.ca/montrealAbout the HostWith over 28 years’ experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients develop vocal confidence and personal growth. Her holistic approach bridges science, education and the performing arts, supporting women to be truly heard in business.Find out more: https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland explores what really happens when high-stakes speaking situations send your nervous system into overdrive. From meetings and interviews to client calls and presentations, she explains why your body can react as if you’re facing danger, and how that stress response affects breath, pitch, vocal steadiness and confidence. Rather than relying on “just be confident” advice, Anne shares a more practical approach: regulating the nervous system so your voice can reflect your real capability, even when the pressure is on.She unpacks the fight, flight, freeze and fawn responses, shows how adrenaline and cortisol can interfere with vocal control, and introduces the idea of nervous system leadership, guiding your internal state so your voice stays grounded, calm and authoritative. Through a simple do-along exercise using breath, pacing, pitch and physical grounding, she demonstrates how small shifts in the body can help the voice settle and the speaker feel safer, steadier and more present.Key TakeawaysHigh-stakes speaking can trigger an ancient survival response.Your nervous system doesn’t always know the difference between a lion and a boardroom. Meetings, interviews and difficult calls can all activate protective stress responses that make speaking feel harder.Stress changes the voice as well as the body.When you’re dysregulated, breath becomes rapid, the throat can tighten, pitch may rise and the voice may wobble or lose power. That can make you sound less confident than you really are.“Just be confident” is not enough.Anne challenges surface-level advice like “just breathe” or “do a power pose” on their own. Real change comes from helping the body feel safe enough to move out of threat mode.Nervous system leadership is a learnable skill.This means guiding your inner state so your voice reflects your capability, not your panic. The more you can regulate yourself before and during speaking, the more authority and ease your voice can carry.The voice can help calm the nervous system.It’s not just that the nervous system affects the voice; the voice can also signal back to the body that everything is okay. A steadier pace, fuller breath and more grounded pitch can reduce activation.Grounding through the body supports vocal presence.Feet flat on the floor, softened jaw, a silent deep breath and a sense of energy rising through the body can help create a more connected, supported sound.Speaking more slowly and from a fuller breath improves authority.Anne contrasts a light, fast, slightly higher delivery with a slower, more grounded version of the same sentence to show how pacing, pitch and breath change how you sound and feel.You’re not lacking skill – your system may be working against you.Often, the challenge is not that you don’t know what to say, but that your voice, body and sense of self are not working together under pressure. Integration is the goal.Best Moments“The meeting, the interview, the client on the phone… anything that puts you into that state of butterflies in the stomach and sets your nervous system into overdrive.”“The nervous system goes into protective mode when the brain and the body detect a threat.”“That nervous system state and the body state, if you like, affects your voice.”“Just trying to be confident alone doesn’t work.”“We need to tell the body that it’s safe.”“I like to think of this as nervous system leadership.”“The nervous system listens to the voice as much as the voice reflects the nervous system.”“You don’t fail to show up because you lack skill… your voice, body and self are not working together.”Weekly ChallengeThe next time you’re heading into a high-stakes speaking moment, try Anne’s regulation sequence first: place your feet flat on the floor, soften your jaw, take a deep silent breath, and say a simple sentence more slowly and from a fuller, lower pitch. Notice how your voice changes when your body feels safer and more supported.About the HostWith over 28 years’ experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients develop vocal confidence and personal growth. Her holistic approach bridges science, education and the performing arts, supporting women to be truly heard in business.Find out more: https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, coach and voice expert Anne Leatherland is joined by Vic Taylor, marketing strategist, author of Six Figure Niche and founder of the Young Hustle Hub. Vic shares her journey from a long corporate career into entrepreneurship, reflecting on how experience, confidence and business ownership changed the way she shows up and speaks.The conversation explores how personal setbacks became unexpected turning points that reshaped Vic’s work and purpose. Together, Anne and Vic discuss the importance of community, clarity and self-belief in business, as well as how voice, breath and nervous system regulation play a powerful role in speaking with authority and authenticity.Key TakeawaysFinding your voice often comes with experience. Vic reflects on how maturity, life experience and entrepreneurship helped her move from holding back in corporate spaces to confidently sharing her opinions and ideas.Low points can become catalysts for growth. Personal and professional challenges ultimately led Vic to new models of service, community and impact.Entrepreneurship allows you to choose how you show up. Building her own business gave Vic the freedom to speak, create and lead in ways that felt aligned and authentic.Breath and voice are deeply connected to confidence. Learning how to breathe, pause and regulate the nervous system transformed Vic’s experience of speaking, including recording her audiobook and delivering talks.Speaking with authority doesn’t mean speaking faster or louder. Pausing, grounding and taking space can create a stronger sense of leadership and presence in a room.Community supports confidence. Both Vic’s work and Anne’s Be Truly Heard programme highlight the power of women supporting one another to grow, speak up and be heard.Best Moments“I probably bit my tongue a lot because I felt like my opinion wouldn’t be heard.”“It was at my lowest points that something new and better began to grow.”“Unconscious incompetence, you don’t know what you don’t know.”“Taking a breath before you speak can be completely game-changing.”“What I have to say is worth your time stopping to listen.”About the HostWith over 28 years’ experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients develop vocal confidence and personal growth. Her holistic approach bridges science, education and the performing arts, supporting women to be truly heard in business.Find out more: https://anneleatherland.co.uk/ Email List: https://vocal-intuition.kit.com/ed71c6c765Be Truly Heard: https://vocal-intuition.kit.com/c1dac14aceAlso - coming up Voice Bites on 10th Feb: Lost Voice = Lost income. Don't let a cold derail you 12.15 -12.45 PM https://buy.stripe.com/7sY7sLfr40BO6GHfUK6EU02About the GuestVic Taylor is a marketing strategist, entrepreneur and educator with over 25 years’ experience across corporate and self-employed roles. She is the author of Six Figure Niche, helping service-based businesses scale sustainably and with clarity, and the founder of the Young Hustle Hub, which supports young people and early-stage founders to explore entrepreneurship as a viable career path. Vic is passionate about education, community and helping people find confidence in their voice and business direction.Find out more: https://sixfigureniche.com/ & https://touchpointsmarketing.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, coach and voice expert Anne Leatherland explores what it truly means to move “from strength to strategy” as a woman in business. Building on the series theme of Taking Up Space, Anne delves into the two essential types of strength - inner strength and vocal strength - and how combining these can help you communicate with authority, warmth and authenticity.Anne discusses how inner strength is the quiet self-belief that helps you stand your ground, even when your voice shakes or you feel uncertain. Vocal strength, meanwhile, is about control, presence and stamina - using your voice effectively so it carries both authority and warmth. Drawing on her experience as a voice trainer and coach, Anne shares practical advice for women in business who want to be truly heard, including how to use vocal variety, show up in your values, and reflect on your impact.Key TakeawaysInner strength is the foundation of self-belief and persistence, helping you speak up even when it feels challenging.Vocal strength is about control, presence and stamina, allowing your voice to carry authority and warmth.Strategy is the intentional use of your strengths to achieve your desired outcomes - choosing how you want to come across and what impression you want to leave.Use vocal variety (pace, pauses, tone) to highlight key points and engage your audience.Show up in your values - align your words, voice and self for authentic communication.Reflect on your impact and use feedback constructively to improve for next time.Best Moments“Inner strength doesn’t always feel like boldness or certainty. Often it shows up more as persistence, quiet courage, that decision to keep going or to speak when you’d normally stay silent.”“Vocal strength isn’t just about being loud… it’s about having control, presence and stamina.”“Strategy, after all, is about choice. That’s when you stop simply reacting to situations and instead begin to choose how you want to come across.”“Strength is not just about holding your ground. It’s about recognising what’s already within you, developing the skills that allow your voice to flourish, and then choosing to use those strengths with intention.”About the HostWith over 28 years’ experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients develop vocal confidence and personal growth. Her holistic approach bridges science, education and the performing arts, supporting women to be truly heard in business.Find out more: https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, coach and voice expert Anne Leatherland welcomes PR strategist Carrie Eddins, also known as the Blondpreneur, for a candid conversation about visibility, authority and the art of pitching yourself in ways that feel authentic and values led. Carrie shares her journey from struggling entrepreneur to PR expert, revealing how embracing media opportunities transformed her business and confidence.Together, Anne and Carrie explore the importance of “reading the room” before “leading the room” and why understanding your audience is crucial for becoming a bookable guest. Carrie offers practical advice for women in business who want to be seen and heard, including the need to simplify your message for mainstream audiences and the value of storytelling in building genuine connections.The discussion also delves into the challenges women face around judgement and self-critique, referencing the authority gap and the impact of societal expectations. Carrie encourages listeners to advocate for themselves, embrace their unique stories, and take courageous steps towards greater visibility - even when confidence feels elusive.Key TakeawaysVisibility in business is about more than expertise; it’s about understanding and connecting with your audience.“Reading the room” is essential - do your research, tailor your pitch, and show you understand the needs of each media outlet.Women often hold back due to fear of judgement, but self-advocacy and authenticity are powerful tools for overcoming these barriers.Storytelling and simplicity are vital - share real experiences and avoid jargon to resonate with a wider audience.The B2B and trade press offer overlooked opportunities for sharing specialist knowledge and attracting meaningful work.Confidence grows through action; courage is the first step to being truly heard.Best Moments“You’ve got to be able to read the room to lead the room.”“If you can read the room, you can lead the room anywhere.”“It’s about really backing yourself, no matter how you perform in the media.”“Sometimes telling these stories, even though they were painful for us at the time, helps us connect with our audience.”“Confidence is a very movable thing… if we’re waiting for it, it will never happen.”About the GuestCarrie Eddins is a PR strategist known for her inclusive and holistic approach to helping trailblazing business owners, especially women, gain visibility in the media. Her work focuses on empowering clients to pitch themselves authentically and build authority through storytelling and connection.Find out more: Connect with Carrie via her website and social channels. About the HostWith over 28 years’ experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients develop vocal confidence and personal growth. Her holistic approach bridges science, education and the performing arts, supporting women to be truly heard in business.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, coach and voice expert Anne Leatherland explores the subtle ways women “shrink” their voices, speaking more softly, holding back in meetings, choosing minimising language – and how that quietly erodes impact at work. She unpacks where this habit comes from (early conditioning, gender expectations, fear of being judged), then shares practical mindset, body and visualisation tools to help you take up more vocal space without needing to be loud or “pushy”.She walks you through noticing when you retreat, experimenting with speaking earlier in “low-stakes” situations, shifting the thoughts that sit behind your sound, and using simple visualisations to retrain your nervous system so that being heard feels safe, not scary. The episode is a reminder that while shrinking may once have felt like self-protection, it no longer serves you if you want to be remembered, respected, and truly heard in business.Key TakeawaysShrinking shows up in your body and your sound. Rounded shoulders, shallow breath and small posture lead to a quieter, tentative voice that makes it easier for others to overlook you.Awareness is the first step to change. Start noticing when you lower your volume, delay speaking, or soften ideas with words like “just” and “sorry”; jot patterns down for a week.Practise speaking sooner in “low-stakes” spaces. In your next meeting or call, aim to contribute early with something simple like, “I’d like to add to that point,” to build the “muscle” of showing up.Use your body to signal ‘I belong here’. Before you speak, roll your shoulders back, gently lift your chest and feel your feet on the floor; your voice will usually sound clearer and steadier.Change the thought, change the voice. Catch inner scripts like “What if I’m wrong?” and reframe them into “My point of view adds value” or “I’m sharing something important,” then repeat until they feel believable.Best Moments“When your voice shrinks, so does your impact.”“Shrinking isn’t just metaphorical; your body contracts, your breath becomes shallow and your voice can feel trapped.”“Staying silent rarely serves us in business.”“Changing the habit means changing the thought – the voice follows the mind.”“Shrinking may once have felt safe, but it no longer serves you if you want to be truly heard.”About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland is joined by speaker coach and sobriety mentor Gill McKay to explore what it really means to feel “comfortable in your own skin” and to speak from a place of congruence rather than coping. Gill shares how decades of high-functioning drinking, family pressure and a constantly activated nervous system left her out of alignment with who she really was, and how choosing alcohol freedom brought back self-respect, aliveness and a voice she could stand behind. She talks about the surprising stigma of sobriety, the hidden shame and bias around alcohol, and why giving language to taboo experiences can make others feel less alone. Key TakeawaysWhat looked like “winding down” with a bottle of wine was actually keeping Gill’s nervous system flooded with stress chemistry. She had normalised living in fight/flight/freeze/fawn, all while juggling work, children and caring responsibilities. Removing alcohol allowed her nervous system to settle so she could move from merely functioning to genuinely living.Gill was shocked to find she felt more shame as a sober woman than as a drinker, thanks to comments like “Oh, go on, just have one” and “You weren’t that bad.” She also uncovered her own hidden biases in thoughts like “I only drank wine, not vodka,” which quietly positioned other drinkers as “worse”. Examining these stories is part of healing shame.Subjects like shame, secrecy, lying and addiction are often experienced in silence. By naming her own experience in her TEDx talk and in her work, Gill helps others realise it isn’t “just me”. Sharing your story in the spirit of helping can turn something painful into a point of connection and support.Many experts have something important to say but get stuck when event applications ask for a speaker reel, professional photos and testimonials they don’t yet have. Speak and Shine was created precisely to break this loop: an immersive day where women can craft a talk, speak on a real stage, be photographed and filmed, and leave with assets that reflect their true authority.Best Moments“I knew that my congruence and alignment had returned when I started to like myself again… I could wake up in the morning just feeling me and feeling really happy being me.”“I’d normalised the fight and flight and freeze and fawn under the auspices of drinking. I’d normalised that as a way to live, and it’s no way to live.”“If I’m feeling shame and I’m sitting in my shame feeling really lonely, then surely by sharing my voice I will be helping others.”“We wanted to provide a really safe, loving, very held environment for women who had something to say… so they could step into their own voice and share their message.”About the GuestGill is a powerful speaker, mentor and educator who helps individuals and teams live and work intrue alignment. Her mission is rooted in empathy, inclusion and curiosity, guiding people to owntheir voice and embrace their worth. Through her work as a sobriety coach and speaker coach, shesupports women in rediscovering who they are beyond alcohol and empowers them to share theirvoice with confidence. Her TEDx talk, The Surprising Stigma of Sobriety, has inspired over 250,000viewers worldwide.Find out more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillmckay/About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland shines a light on everyday vocal habits that can make women sound smaller than they are and shows how tiny, safe shifts can help you “take up space” with your voice. She unpacks four common patterns: shrinking your voice, rising inflection, apologising/minimising, and disconnecting voice from self, then guides short, do-along exercises to build a sound that’s grounded, confident and fully you. These habits aren’t your fault (they’re shaped by years of conditioning), but changing them is your responsibility if you want to be taken seriously and heard.Key TakeawaysShrinking your voice makes people tune out. Use supported breath and a clear, energised call (“here/hey”) so power comes from the body, not the throat. Shoulders soft; ribs widen on the in-breath.Replace rising inflection with a natural downward ending to signal certainty (without dropping volume or intent). Try: “I know what I’m talking about” with the pitch gently falling.Cut the softeners: swap “I just wanted to add…” for “I’d like to add…”. Removing words like “just” and “sorry” stops you sounding tentative.Reconnect voice and self: speak from what you truly value. A simple practice: hand on chest, deep breath, “This matters. This is worthwhile.” adds authentic energy that carries.These habits are culturally learned, but shifting them is how you claim space: finish sentences with conviction, speak without apology, and let your voice fill the room.Weekly challenge: choose one habit you recognise, practise the matching exercise, and notice how others respond when you allow more vocal space.Best Moments“While your voice is a natural part of you, many of the habits that you’ve picked up… can keep you sounding smaller than you really are.”“When you keep your voice small… people literally can’t hear you or they tune you out.”“The downward ending signals confidence, even though nothing else has changed.”“Start small. Catch one word like ‘just’ and practise leaving it out.”“When you reconnect voice, breath and self… your sound carries truth.”About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne is joined by Wendy Garcarz to explore what it really meansfor women over 50 to claim visibility, autonomy and impact. They discuss the hidden gender bias insocial media algorithms, the authority and voice gap that still holds women back, and how ageismcontinues to sideline talented, experienced professionals.Wendy shares her personal insights on silencing the inner critic, embracing lifelong learning, andseeing midlife not as a decline but as a bold new adventure. This conversation is a rallying call forwomen to speak up, share their ideas, and ensure their voices are truly heard.Key TakeawaysAlgorithmic bias is real and rising: women’s posts, especially those about women’s issues, are seeing sharp declines in reach and engagement, suggesting confirmation bias baked into platforms’ metadata and AI.Visibility + ageism: women 50+ are routinely sidelined, from funding barriers (even opening business accounts) to being overlooked for promotions and mentoring roles, despite vast transferable skills and resilience.Don’t shelve expertise: organisations are stronger and more sustainable when senior women are present; yet too many firms “bench” experienced women at 50+.Tame the inner critic: notice whose voice it uses (it may mimic family) and respond with calm, child-friendly reframes. The subconscious reasoner formed around age seven needs reassurance, not combat.Share one idea a day: a low-pressure practice to stop self-silencing and build everyday authority and visibility.Lifelong learning is a posture: curiosity (“I don’t know, yet”) keeps your voice fresh and credible at any age.Best Moments“People think they’re looking through a window online, they’re looking through a mirror.”“Why would you put that intelligence and resilience into mothballs?”“You wouldn’t buy Ronaldo and keep him on the bench.” (on sidelining senior women)“We don’t grow old; we get old when we stop growing.”About the guestWendy Garcarz is the founder of Refirement, a bold movement that helps women redefineretirement as a vibrant new beginning. With over 20 years’ experience as a strategist and futurist,she empowers women over 50 to thrive with purpose, confidence and possibility. Alongside herwork, Wendy also writes gripping espionage thrillers under the pen name Wendy Charlton, weavingpowerful themes of resilience and ageing into her storytelling. Passionate about visibility and voice,she challenges stereotypes and inspires women to embrace their next chapter with courage.Find out more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-garcarz-06b75b2/About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne explores why a vocal warm-up matters, using the athlete analogy to highlight performance and injury prevention for speakers. She explains voice as a whole system of breath, abdominal support, larynx and focus, and how speaking raises adrenaline that benefits from light movement. Simple habit ideas make warm-ups easy to fit into mornings, anchored to the toothbrush, kettle or shower.A short guided sequence covers breath reset, gentle Z or V voicing, tongue and jaw release, facial activation, crisp consonants, and an easy hum to wake range. Anne clarifies the difference between warming up and training, encourages tailoring to the task, and invites listeners to get in touch for personalised guidance.Key TakeawaysTreat your voice like an athlete’s: warm up to avoid fatigue, improve performance and reduce risk.Build a morning habit: stack vocal warm-ups onto existing routines (kettle note, fridge sticky, shower steam).Breathe efficiently: long, leaky psh out-breath; let the lower tummy release to refill, no chest pushing.Wake the folds gently with Z/V; add tongue circles, TH stretch, light jaw massage, “five wows”, then P-T-K / B-D-G bursts.Glide pitch with puffed cheeks to ease range, keep effort low, and movements relaxed.Safety first: don’t practise while driving/using machinery; be cautious with clicky jaws/teeth-grinding.Warm-ups differ from training; tailor them to phone calls, Zoom or projecting to a room (with/without mic).App tip: One Minute Voice Warm Up by Speech Tools/Vocal Process can keep you consistent.Best Moments“If you use your voice a lot… you are actually a professional voice user.”“Using your voice is like running or any other sport.”“A warm-up is there just to get the voice going.”“By the way, if you’re listening to this in the car, don’t do this.”About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/Resources mentionedDon’t forget that you can also now see this episode on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@vocalintuition3343Be Truly Heard, Anne’s coaching for speaking with confidence and impactsubscribepage.io/zZFj3G

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland welcomes mentor Kath Cheng to reframe “midlife” as “midway”, a fresh chapter rather than a decline. They discuss why periods of uncertainty can be fertile ground for growth, how upbringing and beliefs can mute women’s voices, and practical ways to rebuild clarity and confidence. Expect a grounded, non-woo-woo chat about embracing the journey, taking sensible risks, and speaking up with purpose.Key TakeawaysReframe midlife as midway: a forward-looking stage with choices, not a static label or crisis.Triggers (job changes, shifting family dynamics, redundancy) can create space to reassess values and direction.Confidence grows by doing: imperfect action beats waiting to feel “ready.”Take calculated risks: scary and exciting, not reckless.Best Moments“I’m not there to give them the answers.”“It’s the journey that you’re on.”“Get curious about what lights you up.”“Scary but reasonable… scary but exciting.”About the guestKath Cheng mentors women who are new to personal growth and ready to design their next chapter with clarity and confidence. She reframes midlife as Midway, a choice point that opens fresh purpose and possibility. Her work blends practical guidance with steady support so clients make real progress without perfection.Kath created the Her Midway Activation Code, a short audio series that helps women reignite curiosity, decisiveness and courage. She is preparing a twelve-month mentorship experience for women seeking meaningful, lasting transformation. About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/Resources mentionedHer Midway Activation Code, a free mini audio series by Kath: https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/ocYPz28lFVbJNwRaS9D6Her Midway Mentorship Experience, twelve twelve-month programme waitlist https://api.leadconnectorhq.com/widget/form/cdZuZ5sb5gWUzvEuSBRd?ltclid=Be Truly Heard, Anne’s coaching for speaking with confidence and impactsubscribepage.io/zZFj3GWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, Anne Leatherland revisits the idea of “owning the space” and takes it further, on how to take up space so you feel you belong in the room and your message lands. She explains that voice is both physical and personal, shaped by breath, alignment and the nervous system, and shares two client wins (Elsa’s impromptu graduation talk and Claire’s high-stakes Zoom) to show how grounding, breath–vocal fold coordination and seated dynamic alignment can transform confidence and clarity. Anne contrasts rigid “power poses” with natural, responsive body use, then guides safe awareness exercises on head–neck balance (drawing on the Alexander Technique), spinal curves and allowing micromovements to stay balanced. Key TakeawaysOwning the space is essential, but feeling entitled to take it up (you belong here; your voice deserves to be heard) is the unlock for confident speaking.Swap “posture” for dynamic alignment: a responsive, balanced stance or seat that keeps you free to move and speak, never rigid. Think micromovements, not statues.Head–neck balance changes your sound: craning forward, lifting the chin, leaning, or slumping tightens the system; a small “nodding dog” balance frees it. Try counting to five in each position to feel the difference.Your voice is a system: breath interacts with the vocal folds, supported by abdominal and stabilising musculature, so alignment and breathing habits matter.Best Moments“Successful communication begins before you even open your mouth.”“Our head is not attached to our neck like a lollipop on a stick.”“We need to allow what I call micro movements.”“Our voice is the result of lots of different processes.”About the hostWith over 28 years’ voice-teaching experience, Anne Leatherland helps clients progress quickly and achieve goals with confidence. Bridging science, education and the performing arts, she is a science graduate, qualified teacher and singing teacher with advanced training in voice practice, vocal habilitation and life coaching. As the only Vocal Process Associate Trainer, Anne mentors and trains other voice teachers. Her holistic, collaborative approach nurtures every aspect of the voice alongside personal growth.Find out more: ​​https://anneleatherland.co.uk/Weekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

In this episode, Jean Gibson joins Anne for a thoughtful chat about what it really takes to be heard and respected at work when you're navigating personal challenges, low confidence, or neurodiversity.Jean shares real client stories and offers a powerful reminder that understanding your strengths and needs is the first step toward change. Whether you're working through ADHD, career transitions, or tough conversations in male-dominated spaces, this one’s packed with insight and reassurance.Expect practical takeaways, honest reflections, and a gentle nudge to back yourself - because no one else can speak up quite like you can.Jean's Transformative Coaching Experience (2:15)Belief Systems and Personal Strengths (5:36)Challenges and Strengths of Neurodiverse Individuals (7:57)Navigating Male-Dominated Workplaces (12:48)Femininity and Leadership (17:19)Neurodiversity and Communication Challenges (20:50)Building Self-Esteem and Self-Belief (27:47)Connect with JeanLinkedInWebsiteCoaching packagesFree copy of the ADHD WorkbookWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Ever feel like video just isn't your thing - like you’re too awkward, too emotional, or just too… visible? In this episode, I’m joined by Adam Woods, filmmaker and coach who helps coaches, leaders, and business owners harness the power of emotion and vulnerability on camera to creategenuine, lasting connections, to talk about why showing up on camera with presence, vulnerability, and truth is actually a superpower. We explore emotional storytelling, mindset shifts that make all the difference, and how to connect through a screen in a way that truly lands. If you’ve been holding back from using your voice (and your face) in your business, this conversation might be the nudge you didn’t know you needed.Here are the highlights:Adam's Journey into Filmmaking and Coaching (2:00)The Power of Vulnerability and Emotional Sharing (5:14)Transformative Moments in Coaching (9:37)Overcoming Self-Consciousness and Building Confidence (14:51)The Role of Storytelling in Business Communication (20:06)The Impact of Emotional Storytelling (20:23)Mindset Shifts for Effective Communication (25:27)The Importance of Presence and Energy (28:45)Connect with Adam:Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/adamwoods1Website: cameraconfidence.co.uk/  Weekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Building confidence doesn’t have to feel like scaling a mountain in one go. In this episode, I’m talking about why public speaking feels so intimidating, and what you can do to make it less so. I’m sharing my own experiences with high pressure moments and how I’ve helped clients shift from fear to progress with small, intentional steps. Confidence grows one step at a time, and every step counts!Here are the highlightsBuilding Confidence and Overcoming Fear (2:49)The Importance of Gradual Progress (6:43)Strategies for Public Speaking Success (8:38)Building Skills and Self Belief (11:56)Weekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Is it really every woman for herself in business, or are we finally moving towards something more supportive? In this episode, I chat with Julia Bend and Valerie Merrill about how their podcast partnership started with one conversation, and turned into a brilliant collaboration.We talk about women backing women, showing up for each other, and the power of sharing ideas without fear. You’ll also hear their thoughts on visibility, learning, opportunity, and why change doesn’t have to mean losing your voice. This episode is a reminder that success doesn’t need to be solo. Valerie Merrill is a training specialist and founder of Merrill Consultants, where she helps organisations successfully embed new software and navigate business change. With a deep understanding of bespoke systems, CRM, case and document management, and change management, Valerie ensures training is not only delivered - but truly adopted. She works closely with IT, HR and L&D leaders to make training engaging, effective, and aligned with business goals. Valerie is also co-host of The Secrets of Learning and Development podcast, where she explores the latest in L&D, tech adoption, and how to make learning stick in fast-moving environments. Julia Bend is an accredited executive career transition coach and founder of Premier Coaching. She helps professionals realign with their purpose, navigate career changes with clarity, and achieve greater work-life harmony. With a background in corporate IT and process analysis, Julia brings strategic insight and empathy to every coaching relationship. Her tailored programmes support individuals at key crossroads, turning uncertainty into opportunity. Julia is also co-host of The Secrets of Learning and Development podcast, where she shares real-world wisdom on growth, leadership, and thriving through transition.Here are the highlightsJulia and Valerie's Career Journeys (2:03)Forming the Podcast "The Secrets of Learning and Development" (5:56)Challenges and Support for Women in Business (9:35)Top Secrets of Learning and Development (22:21)Conclusion and Contact Information (25:28)Weekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Even in 2025, women’s voices are still interrupted, dismissed, or judged more harshly than men’s. So why does this happen, and what can we do about it? In this episode, I explore the voice gap, the biases shaping how women are heard, and the subtle ways vocal confidence impacts leadership.From historical conditioning to workplace dynamics, we unpack why women’s voices are often undervalued, and how to change that without losing authenticity. Here are the highlightsBiological and Cultural Factors (4:19)Strategies to Overcome the Voice Gap (10:26)Practical Tips for Voice and Communication (14:02)Conclusion and Call to Action (14:50)Weekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram