In this episode, I share 3 ways public speaking has helped me to find and use my voice and the lessons I’ve learned along the way that may help you too. I take a broad view of public speaking = stages, in front of audiences, on TV, in the media, also virtual presentations and podcasting, live streaming, video. Public speaking, in all of these ways, helps you to get your message out, to share your thought leadership ideas, and to have a bigger impact. It’s also an incredible way for more people to know about your business and the work you do and to attract clients, speaking engagements, and media opportunities. I talk about: The one time when I was on TV that I momentarily lost my voice and had to ask for a retake The lesson I learned about going on TV to shift my goal from persuasion to validation Creating this podcast every week for the past 5 years and the role that imperfection has played in finding and using my voice How in-person speaking has shaped my voice (including failures) and the connection between the voice and body Key takeaways you can consider for finding and using your voice About Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links: Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/266 Download our FREE workbook on how to position yourself as a thought leader: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/guide/. Join our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Schedule a consult call with us to talk about creating your signature talk and thought leadership platform: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/contact. Connect on LinkedIn = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcox Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 92: Deconstructing My TEDx Talk: Why We’re Uncomfortable with Women in Power Episode 184: Why Some Speakers Become Thought Leaders with Carol Cox [Thought Leadership Series] Episode 253: TV Can Make You Famous – But Don’t Read the Comments with Dr. Christina Madison [The Medium is the Message Series] Episode 263: Finding the Emotional Heart of Your Message with Carol Cox Episode 264: The Role of Symbols and Metaphors in Our Stories with Susan Moe JOIN US: Our in-person Speaking Accelerator Workshop is coming up in Downtown Orlando on October 30, 2025. Create and practice your signature talk in one day using our proven framework, so you can confidently share your message and attract more opportunities. It's a fun, supportive environment where you get personalized feedback, professional photos, and more. Limited to 15 attendees. Get the details and secure your spot at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.