Be Truly Heard

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 saf...

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...

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 create

genuine, 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. <...

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 highlights

Building Confidence and Overcoming Fear (2:49)

The Importance of Gradual Progress (6:43)

Strategies for Public S...

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 sol...

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 highlights

Biological and Cultural Factors (4:19)

Strategies to Overcome the Voice Gap (10:26)

Prac...

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 facil...

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 diff...

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 Sp...

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 inspirati...

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 w...

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 alw...

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.uk

Ever wondered if you should push through a cold or rest your voice? 

In this episode, I’m tackling the dos and don’ts of vocal care during illness. Sharing my own hard learned lessons and expert tips, we’ll bust common myths (yes, I’m looking at you, honey and lemon) and focus on what actually works. 

If you rely on your voice in your business, this episode is a must. Let’s keep your voice strong and confident, no matter what comes your way!

Here are the highlights

(01:00) Protecting Your Voice D...

In this episode, we’re tackling the big question: how do your personal and brand values shape your voice?

I’m exploring how aligning these values not only defines your authenticity but also strengthens the way you communicate. From reflecting on your deepest drivers to creating clarity in your message, we’ll unpack how values become the foundation of trust and connection in both life and business.

We’ll also dig into the relationship between beliefs and values—how they sometimes clash and what that means for your professional growth.

Whether you’re refining you...

In this episode, we’re diving into the art of using your voice as a core part of your brand. If you’ve ever wondered how to sound more like you while connecting deeply with your audience, this one's for you.

We’ll explore the power of tone, pitch, and pace in reflecting your unique brand values, whether you aim to come across as warm, authoritative, or inspiring.

I’ll walk you through practical exercises to help you refine your vocal style so it becomes a natural extension of your brand, no mimicry needed.

Here a...

Have you ever dreaded that awkward 60-second networking pitch, feeling like it’s bound to fizzle out rather than spark any real interest?

In this episode, I’m sharing how I went from nervously mumbling through my intro to confidently owning the room—and how you can do the same.

We’ll cover practical tips for making your pitch pop, from starting strong to keeping your voice bright and clear, and even using strategic pauses to grab attention.

Whether you’re a seasoned networker or just testing the waters, I’ve got strategies to help you...

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, I’m joined by the fantastic Em Stroud for a lively conversation about creating impact in business while keeping life fun and fulfilling.

With her blend of comedy and leadership coaching, Em introduces her “rainbow diary” approach, a colourful way to balance work, self care, and creative time so that all the important parts of life get their moment.

We talk about why it’s essential to bring humour and playfulness into our routines, especially in demanding business roles. 

If you’re looking for ways to make a real...

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, I share the story of singing for my childhood idol, and what that experience taught me about confidence. Performing in front of someone so iconic wasn’t easy, and it definitely came with its share of nerves! But it highlighted key lessons in building confidence, from preparation and handling fear, to letting go of perfection.

Today I break down the five biggest takeaways from this unforgettable moment and how they can help you overcome your own confidence barriers, whether you’re stepping onto a stage or speaking up in a meet...

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, I’m joined by the brilliant voice coach and podcasting expert, Nic Redman.

Together, we unpack the challenges that many podcasters and speakers face, from getting comfortable with the sound of their own voice to overcoming the perfectionism that can hold them back.

Nic shares her insights on how to stay true to yourself on the mic, sound natural, and find your voice without getting lost in technicalities.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the thought of speaking publicly or recording, this is an episode that...

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, I’m sharing my experience with the fear (and fun!) of going live, whether that’s on social media or in front of an audience.

I’ll give you practical strategies to overcome those jitters, trust yourself, and make the most of your live moments. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel ready to take the leap and embrace the excitement of going live with confidence!

Here are the highlights

(03:13) The Zip Wire Analogy

(04:55) Facing the Unknown and Trusting Yourself

(08:09) Preparat...

In this episode, I chat with Sarah Browning, who brings a refreshing take on how kindness can truly make a difference in both our personal and professional lives.

Sarah shares some incredible stories that highlight just how much kindness is already out there, if we just stop and look for it.

We also talk about how kindness can play a key role in leadership, especially when navigating tough situations.

Sarah Browning inspires human connection and wellbeing through kindness and communication.

She drives hope and positivity by highlighting kindness that already exists...

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, I’m thrilled to welcome back Roseanne Riley as we continue our conversation on reclaiming your voice and releasing tension through breath work.

Roseanne and I talk about how stress gets trapped in the body and how simple breathing techniques can help you feel more grounded and confident in your voice.

If you’ve ever felt like stress is holding you back, you’re going to love this episode!

Here are the highlights

(03:13) Gentle Release and Building Trust with the Body

(06:16) Finding Authen...

In this episode, I sit down with trauma-informed healing mentor Roseanne Reilly, who’s here to share her unique insights on trauma, stress, and how they connect to our nervous systems—and our voices.

We talk about the real impact of chronic stress and trauma, and how they show up in everyday life, even in ways we might not expect.

Roseanne breaks down how the body reacts to stress, what it means to truly recover, and why aligning your values with your beliefs is key.

We also explore the fascinating role of the vagu...

In this episode, we’re talking about something we’ve all faced at some point—feeling stuck when it comes to speaking up.

Whether it’s in a meeting, a casual conversation, or even an important moment where your voice matters, that hesitation can hold us back. I’ll share my own experiences, the frustration of being silenced by fear, and how I moved past it.

We’ll explore how our brains often play tricks on us, telling us stories that aren’t true—those pesky “what ifs” that keep us from speaking out. I’ll walk you through pr...

In this week’s episode, we're joined by the inspiring Debra Blackman, a self-styled "Mary Poppins of the office" who's all about helping business owners thrive with less stress.

Debra shares her personal journey from surviving trauma to becoming a powerhouse in the corporate world, offering her unique blend of efficiency, compassion, and support.

We also explore the power of using your voice—whether you're leading a team, building a business, or simply seeking to be heard in a noisy world.

Debra shares how podcasting has been a game-changer for her, both personally and...

In this episode we tackle the impact of stress on your voice and overall communication. 

Stress isn’t just about feeling overwhelmed; it can significantly affect how you sound, whether it’s causing tension, a shaky voice, or even complete voice loss. 

We explore the differences between acute and chronic stress, how they manifest in your voice, and most importantly, what you can do to manage these effects. 

Here are the highlights

(02:47) Understanding Stress and Its Impact on Voice

(04:25) Causes and Effects of Stress on Voice

(07:31) Strategies for Man...

In this episode of Be Truly Heard, I’m discussing how menopause can unexpectedly affect your voice. From a subtle drop in pitch to that occasional croakiness, these changes are more common than you might think and are closely linked to hormonal shifts. Beyond the physical effects, I’ll also touch on how these changes can impact your confidence, especially in professional settings.

I’m here to offer some practical advice to help you maintain a strong, confident voice during this stage of life. Let’s explore how to keep your voice clear, powerful, and truly heard.

Hig...

In today's episode of Be Truly Heard, I'm sitting down with Tracey Tait to discuss an often-overlooked topic: menopause in the workplace. 

Tracey brings her unique perspective, having founded a menopause training company after her own challenging experiences. 

We’ll discuss the importance of raising awareness, addressing fears, and creating a supportive environment for everyone in the workplace. 

Whether you're directly affected or just want to understand more, this conversation is filled with practical advice and real-life insights that could make a big difference in how we approach menopause at work. 

Highli...

As we enjoy the sunny days here in the UK, I’ve noticed a few unwelcome symptoms—itchiness and a persistent cough that suggests hay fever.

In today’s episode, I'll explore how hay fever and other allergies can impact our voices, especially for those of us who rely heavily on vocal communication in our professional and personal lives.

We’ll delve into what causes hay fever, its effects on our vocal health, and practical steps to mitigate these effects.

Whether you're presenting, speaking in meetings, or simply engaging in daily conversations, understanding how to m...

Today, we focus on maintaining a healthy voice—a crucial tool for anyone using their voice professionally, not just performers.

Discover practical tips on avoiding vocal strain and recognising when your voice is being overworked. We'll explore the concept of 'vocal loading,' its impact, and how to manage it effectively in your daily life.

Whether you're speaking at meetings, making calls, or engaging in social settings, understanding and caring for your voice can dramatically enhance your communication skills and overall vocal endurance.

Join me as we dive into strategies that ensure your vo...

In today's episode, we dive into the nuances of vocal volume and projection.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by overly loud speakers at events? It's a common misconception that louder is better. Join me as we explore how to effectively use our voices to engage and excite listeners without overwhelming them.

We'll cover the science behind sound production, the importance of vocal health, and techniques for enhancing vocal resonance and projection without straining. Learn to communicate powerfully and clearly, preserving your vocal health while leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

Tune in...

In this week’s episode, I'm delighted to welcome Mary Gregory, a seasoned 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 and I discuss strategies to enhance confidence and assertiveness, crucial for anyone aspiring to lead effectively and authentically in today's ever-evolving business landscape.

Join us as we explore the in...

Join me this week, where we dive into the fascinating world of voice modulation and control.

Today, we’re challenging the common belief that "that's just how my voice is," and exploring the vast potential for change that lies within us all.

Whether you're looking to tweak your tone for better communication or overhaul your vocal presence completely, this episode is packed with practical advice on developing physical skills that affect your voice.

From understanding the science of voice to applying techniques for tone adjustment, we'll cover how to harness your voice to re...

In today’s episode, we delve into the integral link between spoken and written communication, and how mastering both can enhance your professional presence.

I’m joined by Lindsay Corten, an expert copy editor and proofreader, who sheds light on common pitfalls in business writing and shares invaluable tips for conveying your message with clarity and impact.

Whether you're drafting an email or preparing a business report, understanding the nuances of tone, style, and grammar can significantly influence your audience's perception.

Join us as we explore how to align your voice across all plat...

Today, I'm debunking common myths about voice use.

You’ve probably heard things like "breathe from your diaphragm" or "avoid dairy before speaking" touted as voice care advice. But how many of these are based on current research, and how many are just well-circulated myths?

From breathing techniques to the effects of caffeine on your voice, I’ll explore these topics with the latest insights.

Join me as we clear up misconceptions and share practical knowledge to help you use your voice confidently and effectively.

Here are the highlights:

(1:03) Debu...

Today, I'm excited to introduce a special guest, Jeremy Fisher—an internationally renowned vocal and performance coach, lecturer, multiple #1 best-selling author and prize-winning musician.

Join us as we explore effective strategies for podcast guests, public speakers, or anyone wanting to engage their audience more effectively.

Jeremy shares his journey from a shy musician to a confident speaker and provides invaluable tips on using your voice to captivate and inspire.

Don't miss this episode full of practical advice to help you communicate with confidence and authenticity.

Here are the highlights:

(1:03) Po...

In today's episode, we delve into the delicate topic of feedback, especially when it pertains to one's voice, a core aspect of our identity.

We explore strategies for processing and reframing past criticism and negative feedback, transforming these experiences into opportunities for growth and learning.

We'll discuss how to differentiate between constructive and unhelpful comments, understand the intent behind the feedback, and take actionable steps to improve and build resilience.

Join me as we learn how to handle feedback with grace and turn potentially wounding comments into stepping stones for personal development.

In today’s episode, I'm joined by Laura Howard, Founder and Psychologist of the Contented Workplace Company, to explore practical strategies for maintaining your stance without crossing into aggression.

We'll discuss the importance of knowing and respecting your boundaries, influenced by your core values, and how this shapes your ability to be assertive.

Whether you're a leader or someone looking to assert themselves more effectively, this conversation will equip you with the tools to express your needs and wants confidently while maintaining respect for others.

Tune in to empower your voice and learn ho...

Do you dislike the sound of your own voice?

Has it ever stopped you from speaking up in public?

If so, this episode is for you.

We'll explore why many of us cringe at our recorded voices, how it holds us back, and what we can do to overcome it.

Even if you're comfortable with your voice, you'll find useful insights to share with others. Tune in to discover how to embrace your voice and make it work for you!

Here are the highlights:

(05:08) How audio recordings...