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She Speaks To Inspire: Public Speaking Growth For Introverted Women
She Speaks To Inspire: Public Speaking Growth For Introverted Women
Author: Julia Kraft
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© 2024
Description
"She Speaks To Inspire" is an empowering public speaking podcast for professional women with public speaking fear. Unlike other podcasts on public speaking, She Speaks To Inspire not only gives you tips to be a confident communicator under pressure but also… helps you regulate your nervous system for less anxiety, learn lifestyle practices to reduce burnout and overwhelm and reconnect with your feminine leadership presence for more authenticity and comfort in your skin.
Learn more about Speak To Inspire Programs here: www.speaktoinspire.com
And, follow us on Instagram! @shespeakstoinspire
The world needs your voice!
Learn more about Speak To Inspire Programs here: www.speaktoinspire.com
And, follow us on Instagram! @shespeakstoinspire
The world needs your voice!
83 Episodes
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You're excellent at your job. You deliver. You execute. You solve problems. But somehow… you're still seen as the "doer" — not the leader. In this episode, we unpack the invisible shift required to move from being valued for your output to being promoted for your impact. Because promotions don't go to the most competent person in the room. They go to the person perceived as strategic, steady, and capable of leading others. That shift isn't about working harder. It's about building strategic presence. We'll explore how leadership visibility actually works, why high performers often stay stuck in execution mode, and how to communicate in a way that signals scope, ownership, and long-term thinking. If you've ever thought, "Why am I doing leadership-level work but not getting leadership-level recognition?" — this episode is for you. In This Episode, You'll Learn: The difference between operational excellence and strategic presence Why being indispensable can quietly block your promotion How to speak in a way that signals leadership, not just competence For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Why does watching yourself on video feel unbearable? Why does hearing your own voice make you cringe? In this episode, we unpack the deeply human experience of self-consciousness when you see and hear yourself speak. That visceral "ugh" reaction isn't proof that you're bad at speaking—it's a nervous system response to perceived social threat. When your brain registers, "I am being evaluated," it shifts out of safety and into protection mode. In this conversation, we'll explore how to move from self-criticism to self-awareness, how to watch yourself without spiraling, and how to use video review as a powerful tool for growth instead of shame. If you've ever avoided posting a video, delayed watching a recording, or spiraled after hearing your own voice—this episode will help you build a steadier, kinder relationship with being seen and heard. 3 Takeaways: Cringe is a nervous system response, not a talent issue. Your brain is wired to scan for social rejection. Seeing yourself on screen can trigger the same threat response as public criticism. Self-awareness and self-attack are not the same thing. You can evaluate your speaking with curiosity instead of cruelty—and that shift changes everything. Repeated exposure builds safety. The more you watch and listen from a regulated state, the more your system learns: I am safe being seen and heard. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Performance anxiety isn't a flaw—it's your nervous system trying to protect you. In this episode, we explore how to calm performance anxiety by creating safety in your body and restoring nervous system homeostasis, so you can show up with clarity, presence, and confidence in high-pressure speaking moments. You'll learn practical strategies to regulate your nervous system, shift stress responses, and ride the wave of nervous energy instead of getting swept away by it. Key Takeaways: Understand your nervous system: Learn how performance anxiety is a physiological response, not a personal weakness. Restore homeostasis: Simple techniques to bring your body back to balance before and during speaking moments. Ride the wave: Learn how to acknowledge nervous energy and move with it, staying present and grounded while you speak. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
For speakers, self-awareness is essential—but too often, noticing what you're doing (or not doing) turns into harsh self-criticism. In this episode, we explore how to cultivate mindful self-awareness that informs growth without eroding confidence. You'll learn practical strategies to observe your speaking patterns, stay grounded, and use feedback—internal and external—as a tool for improvement rather than a source of shame. Key Takeaways: Spot the line between awareness and self-criticism: Learn how to notice your speaking habits without beating yourself up. Use your body and nervous system as allies: Simple techniques to stay grounded and reduce the anxiety that fuels self-judgment. Turn reflection into growth, not guilt: Harness mindful self-awareness to strengthen presence, clarity, and confidence in every speaking moment. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
As you start your career perhaps you are told the glass ceiling is about experience, confidence, or readiness. But for many women, the real barrier to advancement is hard to see—and it has nothing to do with competence. As women advance into leadership, the communication rules quietly change. What once made you a high performer can suddenly work against you. In this episode, we explore the communication glass ceiling—the subtle but powerful shift in how you're expected to speak, take up space, and lead as your visibility grows. You'll learn why "just working harder" isn't the answer, how communication patterns are often misinterpreted at higher levels, and what it actually takes to be heard, trusted, and followed without shrinking or performing. In this episode, we cover: Why competence alone stops translating into leadership influence The invisible communication shifts women face as they rise How to develop executive presence without losing authenticity What it means to claim authority while creating space for others to rise too This conversation is for women who know they're capable—and are ready to communicate at the level their leadership demands. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
We've all been there: you're put on the spot, emotions are high, or the stakes feel big—and suddenly your mind goes blank. In this episode, What to Say When You Don't Know What to Say, we unpack why these moments happen (hint: it's not a lack of intelligence or preparation) and what actually helps when words disappear. You'll learn simple, human strategies for responding in real time—whether you're in a meeting, on stage, in a difficult conversation, or navigating an unexpected question. This isn't about having the perfect script. It's about staying present, grounded, and connected so you can respond with clarity and authenticity—even under pressure. In this episode, we explore: Why your mind goes blank in high-stakes moments What to say when you need time to think without losing credibility How to respond when emotions are present—yours or someone else's Practical phrases that create space, clarity, and confidence This episode is for anyone who wants to trust themselves in the moment—and know they can handle whatever comes next. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
In this episode, we unpack what really happens to an introvert's energy when they're "on" — and how intentional recovery can transform the way they show up in the world. You'll learn: Why visibility, speaking, and social exposure drain introverts faster than most people realize. How the introvert energy cycle works — from overstimulation to the need for quiet recalibration. Practical ways to recharge through solo time or meaningful connection with trusted, close friends. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
If you want your audience to trust you, remember you, and take action—you can't just tell them what you want them to believe. You have to show them. In this episode, we explore how to transform your presentations from abstract ideas into compelling, evidence-backed messages that make your audience lean in. You'll learn how to use data, stories, examples, and vivid detail to bring your content to life and make your message impossible to forget. ⭐️ In this episode, you'll learn: How to shift from explaining to demonstrating so your message becomes tangible and convincing Practical ways to use stories, data, and real-world examples to strengthen your credibility Simple structures for weaving supporting evidence into your presentations without overwhelming your audience Whether you're pitching, teaching, or leading, these techniques will help you create presentations that feel grounded, trustworthy, and unforgettable. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Feeling nervous before speaking? Confidence doesn't start on stage—it starts in your daily life. In this episode, I share simple, practical lifestyle habits that strengthen your presence, calm your nerves, and make your voice more confident and compelling. You'll learn: Morning and evening routines that set the tone for confident communication Small, daily practices that calm anxiety and boost self-assurance How nutrition, movement, and mindset habits impact your presence and performance If you want to feel more grounded, powerful, and authentic every time you speak, these lifestyle hacks are your secret weapon. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Do you find yourself saying "yes" when you want to say "no"? Or softening your words to avoid tension? In this episode, we uncover how people-pleasing quietly sabotages your voice, your confidence, and your authentic communication. You'll learn how to move beyond the habit of keeping the peace and step into grounded, honest expression—even in high-stakes moments. You'll learn: Before: How to prepare mentally and emotionally before a big conversation so you don't default to pleasing. During: What to do in the moment when you feel yourself shrinking, smoothing things over, or freezing. After: How to reflect, reset, and strengthen your voice after tough communication moments. If you've ever dimmed your truth to keep others comfortable, this episode will help you speak up with calm clarity—and keep your power intact. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Have you ever been speaking and suddenly… your mind goes completely blank? 😳 You freeze, your heart races, and you feel like all eyes are on you. In this episode, we dive into why blankouts happen, what's really going on in your brain and body, and how you can recover gracefully every time it happens. You'll learn: Why blankouts happen and the science behind your body's stress response Three practical steps to pause, recover, and regain control on stage Tools to stay grounded, confident, and present so blankouts don't stop you If you've ever frozen in front of an audience or struggled to find your words under pressure, this episode is for you. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Have you ever felt your voice freeze or your heart race the moment you speak up? For many women, those fears aren't just "nerves"—they're rooted in unresolved childhood trauma. In this episode, I uncover the hidden connection between early experiences and the fear of being seen, heard, and judged as an adult. You'll learn three powerful steps to release the grip of trauma, reclaim your confidence, and finally speak with freedom and authority. You'll discover: How childhood trauma shows up as fear, anxiety, or imposter syndrome when speaking. Three practical steps to calm your nervous system and break free from old patterns. Tools to rebuild safety, confidence, and presence so your authentic voice can shine. If you've struggled with stage fright, self-doubt, or that nagging sense of not being "good enough," this conversation is for you. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
When you step onto a stage, your energy speaks before you say a single word. But are you leaning more into masculine energy—direct, structured, driving—or feminine energy—intuitive, flowing, receptive? Both are powerful, but the real magic comes when you know how to balance them. In this episode, I'll share: 🌹 The key differences between feminine and masculine energy in communication 🌹 How each energy shows up in your voice, body language, and presence 🌹 Why over-relying on one can leave your audience disconnected 🌹 Practical ways to blend both energies so you feel authentic, magnetic, and influential on stage If you've ever wondered how to show up with both authority and warmth, this conversation will help you discover the energetic balance that makes your presence unforgettable. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
So many women think they need to think their way into confidence—by preparing more, learning more, or convincing themselves they're "ready." But confidence doesn't come from an idea in your head, it comes from an embodied state. In this episode, I'll break down: Why mindset alone won't make you feel confident How your nervous system and body play a bigger role than your thoughts Practical ways to drop out of your head and into a grounded sense of presence A simple shift you can practice before your next meeting, presentation, or high-stakes conversation If you've been waiting to "finally feel ready," this episode will show you how to create that feeling from the inside out—so you can stop overthinking and start showing up as your most powerful self. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Still Playing Small? Let's Change That. It's easier to stay in the background—I get it. But if you want to advance your career and feel more confident speaking up, this episode is for you. This one's especially for the smart, capable professional women who are keeping their voices quiet and careful. I see you. And I'm here to help you step into the visibility and authority you deserve. In this episode, you'll learn: ✨ How your current personal brand may be holding you back—and how to shift it ✨ A simple system to understand why some people get heard (and others don't) ✨ 3 clear steps to build more credibility, authority, and presence at work Your voice matters. Let's make sure it's heard. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Can't Sleep Before a Big Presentation? Here's What to Do Ever found yourself tossing and turning the night before an important presentation or meeting? If you're caught in a spiral of overthinking—rehearsing your content word for word, worrying about how you'll perform, and getting anxious about being anxious—this episode is for you. You'll learn: What's happening in your nervous system when you can't sleep—and how to calm it Why pre-presentation insomnia is so common (you're not alone!) A simple 3-step recipe for what to do when you're wide awake in the middle of the night If sleep struggles are part of your speaking anxiety, this episode offers the tools and insight you need to rest easier—and speak with more clarity the next day. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Have you ever tried to talk yourself out of nerves before a speaking engagement? How did that work for you? If you're like most people, simply thinking your way to confidence rarely — if ever — does the trick. That's why in this episode, I'll guide you through how to tap into confidence as a natural, inside-out experience — not just a mental trick. You'll discover: Why logic and affirmations alone aren't enough to calm nerves for good What truly helps reduce anxiety and build lasting confidence from within Simple yet powerful exercises you can use anytime to access calm and confidence immediately For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Want to truly connect with your audience and keep them engaged from start to finish? If your presentations sometimes feel heavy on information and light on spark, learning to engage your listeners will completely transform your delivery—and your impact. Top speakers know the secret to captivating an audience, and now it's your time to shine. In this episode, you'll learn: Why engagement is the heart of confident, memorable public speaking The golden rule of engagement that only the best speakers use Four simple, actionable techniques to bring your content to life and hold your audience's attention with ease For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
If anxiety and panic have been constant companions—disrupting your mental health, relationships, and career for years (or maybe your whole life)—it's time to discover the power of extreme self-care. In this episode, I share insights from my own journey with anxiety and what it truly takes to reclaim a sense of calm, confidence, and inner safety—both in daily life and in high-pressure moments. You'll learn how to create a grounded foundation using daily rituals, mindset shifts, and practical strategies to feel more at ease, embodied, and fully expressed. ✨ In this episode, we'll explore: What hyper-vigilance is—and how to start feeling safe in your body The real, underlying causes of anxiety (hint: there's nothing wrong with you!) The 3 core elements every woman needs to break free from anxiety patterns and regulate her state—naturally, and without medication This is your permission to slow down, tune in, and care for yourself on a deeper level than ever before. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛
Is English your second (or third) language? Do you feel self-conscious about your public speaking skills—especially in high-stakes situations? If you already find public speaking nerve-wracking, navigating it in a non-native language can feel even more overwhelming. But here's the truth: you can be confident, clear, and powerful—no matter what language you're speaking. In this episode, I'll share: The common mindset trap that increases anxiety for non-native English speakers—and how to shift out of it 3 simple strategies to stay grounded and speak with ease under pressure How to embrace your unique voice and speak with authentic confidence Whether English is your second or fifth language, this episode will help you thrive as a speaker and show up fully as yourself. For more inspiration—and to watch my free training, The Calm and Confident Communicator—head over to www.speaktoinspire.com. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an upcoming tip to elevate your speaking skills. And I'd be so grateful if you'd leave a rating and review—it really helps more people find the show! Thanks for listening! 💛





