188 | How to Speak With More Confidence and Authority - with Sara Bagheri

You can know exactly what you want to say, then the moment you hit record, walk into a networking event or start speaking in front of a room, suddenly your voice changes. You speed up, forget to breathe, lose your words or simply don’t sound as confident as you know you can be.Joanna is joined by Sara Bagheri, founder of Fluence Comms and a speech, language and voice therapist with over 20 years’ clinical experience. They explore what actually makes someone sound confident and authoritative, why nerves affect your voice and the small, practical changes you can make to how you speak - without trying to become someone you’re not.In this episode:01:20 – Slow Down and Pause05:40 – What Nerves Do to Your Voice10:30 – Release Tension Before Speaking15:10 – Change Your Pace Naturally19:00 – Stop Upspeak Undermining You25:20 – Build Trust in 30 Seconds30:20 – Practise Before the Big MomentYou don’t need to wait for the big presentation, webinar or networking event to practise. Start using your voice differently in the everyday conversations you’re already having.Your next step: Record yourself speaking for just 30 seconds. Watch it back with curiosity rather than criticism and notice one thing that worked well and one thing you’d like to practise.Connect with Sara Bagheri on LinkedInVisit Fluence Comms to learn more about working with SaraUseful LinksLearn about The Business of Coaching programmeSignature Solution CourseDownload the Free Digital version of Coaches' Planner (NEW edition 2026)Free Essential AI Toolkit – 2 Must-Have Prompts for CoachesHow to secure more coaching clients' free trainingDownload the 12 ways to get clients nowConnect with Jo on LinkedInRate and Review the PodcastIf you found this episode of Women in the Coaching Arena helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you’re kind enough to leave a review, please do let Jo know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at: joanna@joannalottcoaching.comEnjoyed This Episode? Don’t Miss the Next One! Hit subscribe on your favourite podcast app to be notified each time a new episode of Women in the Coaching Arena.