Be Truly Heard

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...

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:LinkedIn

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

Confidence is one of those things we’re told we just need more of, but what if that’s not the full story? In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Gregory. Mary is a leadership coach, consultant, author, and speaker with over 25 years of experience in helping leaders navigate through challenging changes, meet ambitious targets, and build trustworthy relationships. She is also a thought leader on the Forbes Coaches Council, where she shares her insights on leadership, empathy, connection, and the future of work. Mary’s work involves coaching senior leaders, designing and facilitating  leadership programs, and supporting the development of inclusive working cultures while empowering women leaders. With this in mind, she has a LinkedIn group, She Leads Collective, for purpose-driven leaders committed  to creating balanced workplaces where everyone has the chance to thrive. In this episode we unpack the myths around confidence and explore what it really takes to lead with impact.We talk about the difference between confidence and self esteem, how ego can sometimes masquerade as confidence, and why women often feel they have to work harder to be heard. If you’ve ever doubted yourself or questioned what true confidence looks like, this conversation is for you!Here are the highlights(01:46) Defining Confidence(03:25) Energy and Confidence(06:53) Handling Uncertainty and Ego(16:59) Gender Biases in Leadership(21:30) The Importance of Listening(23:25) Authentic ConfidenceConnect with Mary: Ego: Get over yourself and lead WebsiteWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Ever felt like you’re speaking, but no one is really hearing you? In this episode, I speak to Debra Blackman to explore what it truly means to find and own your voice—not just in business, but in life.Debra is a voice activation specialist, a different thinker and a light-shiner. Founder of Viessentially Ltd. Podcasting for Publicity & Profit Mentor, Podcast Host, with international multi-media speaker and special guest appearances. Challenging traditional business systems and beliefs, with a heart centred approach, proving there is a new business model based on the "Sphere" that celebrates difference, where every person matters, where their words are heard, and where their opinion counts. A childhood abuse and trauma survivor, she wore the “cloak of invisibility” as protection. From a wealthy family with all the trappings money can buy, but who lived in fear behind closed doors. Who had a nervous breakthrough and a re-birth, and who's soul purpose is to empower everyday people to step into their true voice and share their message with the world.Debra shares her powerful journey from silence to self expression, how societal conditioning often holds women back from speaking up, and why embracing your authentic voice is the key to influence and confidence. We also talk about breaking free from old narratives, stepping into visibility, and using your voice to create real impact. If you’ve ever struggled to be heard, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights(01:11) Introduction and Background(05:00) Challenges of Speaking Up(10:22) The Power of Authenticity and Overcoming Interruptions(12:51) Empowering Women in Business and Personal Lives(18:22) Challenging Traditional Business Systems and Beliefs(21:45) Finding Strength(26:20) ConclusionConnect with Debra HEREWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Ever feel like your New Year’s resolutions lose steam before February even begins? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m talking about why resolutions often fail and how setting a clear intention instead can actually move the needle. Whether it’s in business, personal growth, or speaking with confidence. Intent carries energy, and when we back it up with action, we create real change!If you’ve ever doubted whether your voice really matters, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights(05:41) The Importance of Intent in Speaking(06:05) Vocal Skills and Confidence Building(08:00) Affirmations and Positive Self Perception(09:59) Setting Realistic Goals(12:15) Training and Professional VoiceWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

One year of Be Truly Heard—what a milestone! This episode celebrates the incredible journey we’ve taken together, empowering women in business to find their authentic voice. From tackling confidence barriers to mastering vocal techniques, this podcast has become a space for transformation, growth, and self-expression.I’ll revisit favourite moments, from solo episodes where I shared exercises to unlock vocal power, to guest conversations that explored inner strength and overcoming the inner critic. Whether you’re a long-time listener or just tuning in, this celebration of voices—yours included—is packed with inspiration and practical tools to help you speak with authority, warmth, and authenticity. Let’s keep being truly heard!Here are the highlights:(0:49) Celebrating One Year of Be Truly Heard(1:38) Favourite Clips from Previous Episodes(5:57) Developing Vocal Skills and Self-Belief(9:50) Values and Personal Growth(11:33) Vocal Health and Overcoming ChallengesWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

Have you ever had to navigate a challenge so big it changed the way you see yourself and your abilities? In this episode, I sit down with Hazel Woodward. Hazel is the founder of Lift®, a social media agency dedicated to helping dentists build thriving online presences. A courageous woman in business with an inspirational story, Hazel has faced profound challenges, including a serious vocal issue that left her without a voice. Her journey through that adversity taught her resilience and the power of communication, values she now brings to her work. Hazel's story and expertise resonate with women in business, as she helps others amplify their voices and create impactful connections in the digital world. LinkedinWebsiteHere are the highlights(02:49) Challenges of Starting a Business(05:21) Impact of Social Media(11:57) Vocal Health(18:30) Medical Treatment and Recovery(25:23) Final ThoughtsWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

The festive season can take a toll on more than just your energy, it’s often your voice that pays the price. In this episode, I share practical tips to keep your voice healthy and strong as you navigate holiday celebrations, loud gatherings, and rich food indulgence. From managing vocal fatigue and balancing alcohol with hydration to steam inhalation and reflux prevention, I’ve got you covered!We’ll also talk about the emotional side of the season, how to hold space for yourself, take a breather, and honour your feelings during a time that’s not always merry for everyone. Your voice matters, and so do you. Let’s make sure you step into the new year feeling heard and ready to shine!Here are the highlights(02:40) Voice Hours and Physical Voice Care(04:18) Alcohol and Hydration(07:53) Managing Loudness and Emotional Health(11:09) Self-Care and Emotional Management(12:25) Balancing Festive Activities(14:01) Transition to Bi-Weekly Podcast ScheduleWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram

In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Harrison, an occupational therapist with nearly three decades of experience helping individuals overcome barriers in their work and daily lives. From understanding how health impacts workplace performance to creating tailored solutions for individuals and businesses, Lisa offers a fresh perspective on holistic occupational therapy.We explore the challenges women often face in balancing health, work, and caregiving roles, along with practical advice for those looking to re enter the workforce after health related setbacks.Connect with Lisa:lisa.harrison@rehabjigsaw.co.ukwww.rehabjigsaw.co.ukHere are the highlights:(03:34) Introduction(05:49) Challenges Women Face in the Work Environment(07:55) Corporate Challenges and Support for Women(10:58) Returning to Work After Health Issues(14:50) Employer Involvement and Support(19:45) ConclusionWeekly Top Tips To find out more, contact Anne hereBook a Discovery Call hereAnd reach out on Social Media:LinkedInFacebookInstagram