Guest Introduction:

Dr. Carol Fleming is a speech and communications coach in private practice since 1980, and is the founder of The Sound of Your Voice, a San Francisco consultancy firm that specializes in vocal development and communication training. She is also the author of the audio series “The Sound of Your Voice” and “The Serious Business of Small Talk,” and the book “It’s the Way You Say It: Becoming Articulate, Well-Spoken, and Clear.”

Interview Summary:

In this interview, we start by asking Carol about the most common vocal problems she comes across in her practice. She discusses ways that people can improve the sound of their voice, including how to be less monotone and develop more musicality. She also talks about the mental aspect of letting go in order to develop more vocal variety.

Next, we ask Carol to describe some common causes of poor vocal projection, and how people can project their voices better, especially in loud environments. She walks us through a few exercises for easing vocal tension.

Carol then discusses how people can communicate more confidently and assertively. She explains what up-talking is, and why doing this makes us sound less confident. Carol talks about the mechanics of sound and voice production in the body, and how breath affects vocal tone. She describes diaphragmatic breathing and explains the difference between proper and improper breathing. She also walks us through the process of adjusting your voice tone.

Finally, Carol provides some effective strategies for reducing or eliminating stage fright when speaking in public, whether it's in a social or professional environment. She closes out by encouraging those who want to improve their voice to take action and not just read or listen about it.

Find out more about Dr. Carol Fleming:

https://www.itsthewayyousayit.com/

The Craft of Charisma Podcast is also available at:

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