When Elizabeth Holmes appeared in the public eye, her voice became almost as famous as her company.

Commentators dissected it. Podcast hosts imitated it.

Articles speculated about whether it was real or deliberately lowered. For some, her voice became evidence of deception.

For others, it was proof of what women feel they must do to be taken seriously in positions of power, but the fixation on Holmes’s voice obscures a far more relevant and uncomfortable question.

Why does authority still sound a certain way to us?

And why do so many capable leaders feel pressure to change their voice when they step into senior roles?

Flawless speech doesn’t inspire confidence; presence does.

Executive presence is built on sincerity, calm authority, and connection. Here’s how to develop executive presence in communication without chasing perfection.

You’ve been told to “just take a deep breath” before you speak. But if your chest is tight and your voice won’t come out, that advice falls flat. This post explores why your voice locks up under pressure, and the simple, science-backed techniques you can use to release it.

As a voice and public speaking coach, I’m deeply troubled by the content of Tate’s messaging. His views on women are not only regressive—they’re dangerous.

He’s referred to women as property, shared graphic fantasies of violence, and routinely promotes misogyny, racism, and antisemitism under the guise of empowerment.

And yet, people listen.

This blog isn’t about excusing or platforming Tate’s rhetoric. It’s about asking a difficult, but important question:

Why does his voice command so much attention—and what can we learn from understanding it?

People often mistake the loudest voice in the room for the most competent.

The fast-talker, the interrupter, the individual who fills the silence before anyone else has the chance, these behaviours have, somehow, become shorthand for authority.

Ever frozen when asked a question you weren’t prepared for?

You’re not alone.

Whether it's a high-stakes meeting, investor Q&A, or a team huddle gone awry, impromptu speaking can resemble stepping onto a stage without a script. But what if we told you the key to handling these moments lies in jazz?

Ever been told your voice sounds harsh—even when you’re just being direct? Or maybe people assume you’re aggressive when you’re simply speaking with confidence?

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many professionals, especially in leadership roles, struggle with this. The way we sound can shape how others perceive us just as much as what we actually say. And if your tone feels too sharp, it can create unnecessary tension, resistance, and even undermine your authority.