Confidence isn't something you're born with; it's something you build, one uncomfortable moment at a time.

Welcome to Command Your Presence Podcast with Jacinda! In this episode, she reconnects with long-time creative friend and filmmaker Shane, whose journey from Scout Camp leader to Creative Director reveals powerful lessons on confidence, leadership, and authentic communication.

Shane shares how his early experiences commanding a noisy dining hall of 400 campers taught him to project his voice, connect with an audience, and earn respect. Those lessons would later shape his success in film and creative production. Together, Jacinda and Shane explore what it really means to "read the room," how to balance empathy with authority, and why the best leaders are also great listeners.

Whether you're a speaker, creator, or entrepreneur, this conversation will inspire you to step up, take space, and own your voice wherever you are.

Episode Highlights:

01:40 Who is Shane beyond his job title? 03:00 The moment he first learned to command presence 05:40 From camp counselor to confident communicator 09:00 The power of adapting your communication style 13:20 Lessons from film school and working in production 17:30 Big-budget sets vs. indie projects: what fuels creativity 20:00 Finding your best "room" as a speaker or performer 22:00 Why great speakers are great listeners

25:00 The difference between being a great performer and a great communicator 27:00 How to practice your voice and build presence through repetition 29:00 Reframing wins and losses into wins and lessons 31:00 Shane's high-pressure story from a live film festival 35:00 Staying calm and taking control when things go wrong 37:00 How to zoom out and focus on the bigger picture under pressure 39:00 Connecting the dots between different skill sets and experiences 40:00 Quick-fire lessons on public speaking and success 42:00 The importance of listening to your head, heart, and gut

🎧 Listen now and discover how to command your presence with confidence, empathy, and purpose.

💬 If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who's ready to level up their voice and leadership, and tag @commandyourpresence on Instagram with your biggest takeaway!

Have you ever poured your heart, time, and money into something only to watch it fail publicly?

Welcome to Command Your Presence Podcast, where Jacinda sits down with Kateesha, a bold entrepreneur and branding expert who's mastered the art of resilience and authentic leadership. In this episode, they unpack how devastating setbacks can become the foundation for unstoppable growth and why commanding your presence starts long before you step on a stage.

Kateesha opens up about investing $40,000 in a business that never took off, the grief that followed, and the powerful mindset shifts that helped her rebuild into a thriving personal brand and coaching business. Together, she and Jacinda dive deep into integrity, confidence, and the small daily actions that lead to massive transformation.

This conversation is a must-listen if you've ever felt defeated, doubted your path, or wondered how to bounce back stronger than ever.

Episode Highlights:

01:00 - Who is Kateesha, beyond her title 02:30 - Realizing the importance of commanding presence 05:00 - The painful $40,000 lesson that changed everything 08:30 - Grieving business failure and rebuilding confidence 11:00 - Why tying your self-worth to your business is dangerous 12:30 - Authenticity and standing out on LinkedIn 15:00 - The link between integrity, confidence, and presence 17:00 - Weekly "integrity check-ins" to stay aligned 20:00 - Creating pressure to perform and knowing your growth pace 23:30 - Building a brand with intention, not burnout

25:00 - Pivoting from done-for-you services to coaching 27:00 - Investing big and backing yourself when the pressure is on 29:00 - Fast growth vs. slow growth (knowing what's right for you) 31:00 - Setting clear end goals before going all in 33:00 - Why she stopped networking and grew her brand entirely online 35:00 - How she helps clients show up and build presence in the digital space

Connect with Kateesha: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kateeshahembrow

Instagram: www.instagram.com/kateeshahembrow

Follow the Command Your Presence Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/commandyourpresence/

🎧 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who needs a reminder that failure isn't the end, it's the foundation of your next success. Leave a review and tell us your biggest takeaway about commanding your own presence.

Welcome to Command Your Presence Podcast Episode 21!

Okay, picture this: you're five feet tall, training to be a jockey, and your horse decides you're the one getting trampled today. That's how Jess Elford's fitness journey began, not exactly the typical "I found my passion" story, but definitely one for the books (and the blooper reel).

In this episode, Jacinda chats with Jess, a personal trainer, former almost-jockey, and self-proclaimed early bird who believes confidence can be learned… preferably after a lemon water and a good stretch. They laugh their way through Jess's journey from shy kid to coach commanding a full class, the fake it till you make it moments that built her confidence, and the surprising power of just being yourself (even when you're still figuring out who that is).

You'll hear stories of hilarious missteps, personal growth, and why having a solid morning routine might just be the secret to showing up like a boss, both in and out of the gym.

Episode Highlights:

01:24: From shy schoolgirl to aspiring jockey

03:02: The whoopsy daisy that changed everything

04:21: First group class nerves and the "fake it till you make it" mindset

06:45: Early challenges that shaped Jess as a trainer

08:30: Mentors who inspired confidence (including Jacinda!)

09:45: Morning routines that set the tone for success

10:38: Why giving to yourself first helps you show up stronger for others

11:22: The power of being your true self

12:30: Knowing when to walk away and trust your instincts

13:05: Handling pressure and commanding a room full of clients

15:00: Leadership lessons from the gym floor

16:30: Why connection and trust are key to client success

18:00: Getting out of your own head and finding confidence over time

19:15: "Just go for it" — Jess's advice for anyone chasing their goals

20:00: Her focus on proper form and helping clients train safely

22:45: What DOMS really means and why recovery matters

23:50: Challenges of learning each client's unique style

24:30: How caring deeply can be both a strength and a struggle

25:00: What's next for Jess and True Form Fitness

Follow Jacinda @commandyourpresence for more real (and slightly ridiculous) conversations that make personal growth a little less serious and a lot more fun.

💛 If this episode made you laugh, nod, or rethink your morning routine, hit follow and leave a quick review! It helps more listeners find the Command Your Presence Podcast and join the fun.

When I was in high school, I performed at the Rugby World Cup opening ceremony in front of 80,000 people. The lights were blinding, the crowd was roaring, and my heart was pounding so hard I could feel it in my throat. But once I stepped onto that field, something strange happened. The fear disappeared.

Years later, standing in a small boardroom with just two people watching me, that same fear came rushing back. My palms were sweaty, my voice shaky, and every glance felt like a spotlight. How could performing for two people feel scarier than performing for thousands?

In this episode, I unpack that question and dive into the psychology of stage fright, why big crowds feel less intimidating, how small rooms trigger self-doubt, and how you can tap into your stadium confidence in any setting.

I'll share practical tools you can use to shift your focus, manage your energy, and command presence without needing to be the loudest person in the room.

Episode Highlights: 01:10 Performing at the Rugby World Cup Opening Ceremony 03:05 Why Big Crowds Feel Less Personal (The Sea of Faces Effect) 05:12 How Small Rooms Trigger Hyper Awareness and Anxiety 07:00 Mental Tricks to Recreate the Comfort of a Stadium Anywhere 09:20 Practical Tips to Command the Room Without Being the Loudest Person

🎧 Ready to feel more confident the next time all eyes are on you?

Tune in now and learn how to own your space, whether you're speaking to 80,000 people or just 8.

👉 Listen on Spotify and YouTube Follow me on Instagram @commandyourpresence for more behind-the-scenes stories and upcoming episodes!

Welcome to Command Your Podcast Episode 19!

Did you know that over 75% of presenters admit their jokes often fall flat? And many never try humor again because of it? That's a huge mistake, because when used correctly, humor is one of the most powerful public speaking tools you can use to build trust, connect with your audience, and make your message unforgettable.

In this episode, Jacinda reveals how to use humor effectively in presentations (even if you don't consider yourself a "funny" person). She breaks down why humor works, how it helps you create engaging presentations and a stronger audience connection, and the common mistakes that make jokes backfire.

From practical public speaking tips to real-life stories (including a joke that totally bombed on stage), you'll learn how to:

• Add humor naturally to your presentations
• Avoid common pitfalls and cultural missteps
• Keep your message authentic and impactful
• Read the room and adapt in real time
• Use humor as a storytelling tool to make your content stick

Whether you're delivering a keynote, leading a meeting, pitching clients, or giving a wedding speech, this episode will show you how to make people laugh and listen (without trying too hard).

Episode Highlights:

01:00 – Why humor is one of the most powerful presentation tools 02:00 – How humor breaks the ice and builds audience connection 03:00 – Making your message more memorable with laughter 04:00 – Common pitfalls: missed jokes, cultural sensitivity, and overdoing it 06:00 – Know your audience: tailoring humor that resonates 07:00 – Authenticity matters: making humor feel natural 08:00 – Tying humor back to your key message 09:00 – Reading the room and adapting your delivery 09:50 – Jacinda's maid of honor speech story: lessons in humor 12:00 – Why the best presentations are about connection, not perfection

If you've ever had a joke flop during a talk or avoided humor altogether because you were afraid it wouldn't land, this episode is packed with presentation skills tips that will help you bring more personality, confidence, and laughter to the stage.

👉 Now it's your turn: What's your favorite tip for adding humor to a presentation? Or do you have a funny story about a joke that didn't land? Share it with Jacinda on Instagram at @commandyourpresence or email her at [email protected]. Your story might even inspire a future episode!

Welcome to Command Your Presence Podcast Episode 18!

Commanding a room isn't about being the loudest voice; it's about presence, authenticity, and connection.

Jacinda is joined by Ben Marshen, a former research scientist turned financial services leader, consultant, and advocate who has spent nearly two decades shaping better systems for consumers. Beyond his corporate roles, Ben brings a fascinating mix of curiosity, creativity, and performance experience that has shaped the way he commands a stage and captivates audiences.

In this episode, Ben shares his unconventional journey, from working in science labs to financial planning, from shy introvert to confident speaker. He opens up about how theater and performance shaped his ability to present with confidence, why reframing fear is key to public speaking, and how anyone can learn to connect deeply with their audience.

Together, Jacinda and Ben explore strategies for commanding presence, overcoming fear of the stage, and reframing performance anxiety into empowerment. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or someone preparing for that big wedding speech, this conversation will inspire you to step into the spotlight with confidence.

Episode Highlights:

02:00 – From research scientist to financial services advocate 05:45 – Lessons from his extroverted father and how theater shaped his confidence 09:30 – The turning point: presenting financial seminars and finding his voice 12:10 – Why audiences actually want you to succeed 15:00 – Simple techniques to engage and captivate a room 18:40 – Breaking away from the lectern and using movement for impact 21:00 – The surprising safety of being on stage 25:00 – Reframing rejection and finding empowerment in performance

If you've ever felt nervous about public speaking or struggled to own your presence, this episode will give you practical tools and inspiration to shift your mindset and step up with confidence.

👉 Don't miss future episodes!

Subscribe to Command Your Presence Podcast, follow Jacinda on Instagram @commandyourpresence, and share this episode with someone who's ready to find their voice.

What happens when your dream job abroad turns into a relentless marathon? How do you stay present under pressure when your body and mind are pushed beyond their limits?

Welcome to Command Your Presence Podcast Episode 17!

In this episode, Jacinda pulls back the curtain on the reality of life as a performer in Dubai. What seemed like a glamorous overseas opportunity quickly turned into a grind: performing four 45-minute shows a day, six days a week, in heavy costumes under 50-degree heat. From exhaustion and nutrition struggles to cultural challenges and isolation, Jacinda shares the raw truth behind the stage lights.

She dives into the physical and mental toll of long-term performance, how small rituals (like Snickers bars and late-night burgers) became survival tools, and the powerful mindset shift that helped her discover what it really means to command your presence. This story isn't just for dancers or entertainers; it's for anyone navigating burnout, high-pressure work environments, or the daily grind of chasing big dreams.

Episode Highlights: 01:40 – The reality of a "dream contract" in Dubai 04:00 – Performer nutrition, recovery, and energy hacks 07:00 – Suit performing: cardio with weights on stage 09:00 – Cultural challenges and homesickness 11:00 – The Snickers bar incident: when food backfired 13:00 – Creating comfort in a foreign country 15:00 – Commanding presence as a choice, not a feeling 17:00 – Why rest and recovery fuel high performance

If you've ever felt like your dream career turned into a pressure cooker, this episode will inspire you to rethink presence, recovery, and performance, whether you're on stage, in business, or simply managing life's demands.

👉 Follow Jacinda on Instagram @commandyourpresence for more behind-the-scenes stories on performer life, resilience, and personal growth.

✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone navigating their own high-pressure season, and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

Welcome to Command Your Podcast Episode 16!

If saying "um" and "ah" were a competitive sport, most of us would already have Olympic gold medals. But don't worry, in this episode, we're breaking the habit and learning how to sound more confident, polished, and professional without those pesky fillers sneaking in.

In this solo session, we explore why filler words creep into our speech, what they signal about confidence, and how you can replace them with one of the most powerful tools in communication: the pause. You'll hear simple, practical techniques you can practice right away, from recording yourself to slowing down, and even trying a fun "pause drill" with a friend.

Whether you're a podcaster, presenter, teacher, or just tired of cringing at your own ums, this episode is your step-by-step guide to sounding clear, confident, and in control.

Episode Highlights:

00:40 – Why filler words like "um" and "ah" sneak into your speech 01:36 – How fillers connect to confidence (and what they signal to others) 02:00 – The surprising power of silence: why pausing is better than filling 03:12 – Technique 1: Record yourself and tally the fillers 04:09 – Technique 2: Slow down and let your brain catch up with your mouth 05:00 – The Pause Drill: practice answering questions with no fillers 06:00 – Why consistency (not perfection) is the key to improvement

Find out more & connect:

Instagram: @commandyourpresence.

Follow me for more communication and presentation tips!

If you enjoyed this episode, hit subscribe so you don't miss the next one! Share it with a friend who's guilty of a few too many "ums" and "ahs", and don't forget to try the pause drill this week. Tag me on Instagram and let's celebrate your progress together!

Welcome to Command Your Presence Episode 15!

What happens when you realize the career you've built no longer lights you up? And you take a leap into an entirely new path? In this episode, Jacinda is joined by Sophie Horne, a former physio who boldly transitioned into women's health coaching and cycle education.

Sophie shares her journey of following curiosity, stepping away from the traditional healthcare system, and finding her voice in the women's health space. From the awkward realities of learning about periods in school to the freedom she discovered living in London, Sophie reflects on the moments that shaped her confidence, authenticity, and ability to command presence.

Their conversation explores the challenges of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and losing yourself in the expectations of others, and how Sophie reclaimed her sense of self through reinvention and motherhood. You'll hear how she's helping women better understand their cycles, embrace authenticity, and shift from simply surviving to thriving.

Episode Highlights: 03:15 – Sophie's pivot from physio to women's health coaching 07:42 – Why cycle syncing is more than just a TikTok trend 11:36 – The contraceptive pill and creativity: Sophie's personal story 14:25 – Early lessons on presence from a standout teacher 18:00 – The struggles of adolescence, perfectionism, and fitting in 20:12 – Reinvention in London: starting fresh and making mistakes 24:15 – Meeting her husband and choosing a new life in Sydney 26:30 – Advocating as a new mom: Sophie's journey with her daughter's tongue tie and trusting her gut over professional advice 32:00 – How commanding presence shows up in motherhood, business, and beyond 36:00 – Quick-fire questions: advice on storytelling, client connection, daily rituals, and the one piece of wisdom Sophie wants every listener to take away

If you've ever felt stuck in your career or unsure how to step into your own presence, this conversation will spark your curiosity and inspire you to take bold chances.

✨ Don't miss future episodes! Subscribe to Command Your Presence on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review to help us reach more listeners ready to step into their power.

📲 Follow us on Instagram @commandyourpresence for behind-the-scenes, clips, and updates!

Welcome to Command Your Presence Podcast Episode 14!

What do burgers and stage presence have in common? For me, everything. Before stepping into the spotlight for my very first one-woman show, I found myself across the street from a KFC. Hungry and anxious, I grabbed a chicken burger, fries, and a Coke before curtain call. That small ritual quickly became more than just a snack. It was the anchor I needed to calm my nerves, focus my mind, and step into my power on stage.

In this episode, I share how quirky rituals like mine, whether it's smashing a burger, listening to Britney Spears, or even carrying a bizarre lucky charm, can actually ground us in high-pressure situations. Rituals give us a sense of control, reduce anxiety, and help us show up as our most confident selves. Whether you're facing a performance, a presentation, or a big life moment, the right ritual can help you command your presence and own the room.

Episode Highlights: 01:10 – The origin of the "burger ritual" 02:45 – Why rituals help calm nerves and boost focus 04:30 – The psychology of comfort food and presence 06:15 – Quirky rituals of celebrities (from Christian Bale to Heidi Klum) 09:20 – How to create your own grounding ritual 10:45 – Tying rituals back to confidence and presence

So, what's your ritual? Maybe it's food, a song, or even a lucky pair of socks. Whatever grounds you, embrace it. And if you don't have one yet, this episode might inspire you to create your own.

👉 I'd love to hear about your quirky rituals! Share them with me on Instagram @commandyourpresence and join the conversation about how we can all show up more confident, calm, and powerful in life's big moments.