In this episode, Melissa sits down with professor, writer, and deep thinker, Dr. Margaret Heffernan, to explore creativity, uncertainty, and the power of authentic voice.

Together, they talk about how artists and leaders can not only survive but thrive in unpredictable times, the importance of cultivating a personal style, and the art of communicating with clarity and impact.

Margaret reflects on lessons from her childhood and career, shares insights from her latest book Embracing Uncertainty, and offers thoughtful guidance on building meaningful, creative lives.

Tune in for inspiration and practical wisdom on navigating change, fostering creativity, and finding your voice at work and beyond.

Links:

https://www.mheffernan.com/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/99633.Margaret_Heffernan

https://www.ted.com/speakers/margaret_heffernan

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

01:19 Meet Margaret Heffernan: Early Life and Influences

05:54 Embracing Uncertainty: Insights from Margaret's Latest Book

09:28 The Importance of Creativity and Adaptability

16:49 The Power of Voice in Leadership

21:19 Effective Communication: Avoiding Jargon and Clichés

29:00 The Power of Storytelling in Business

30:23 The Craft of Effective Communication

35:32 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

37:11 The Importance of Curiosity and Noticing

45:52 Creativity in Science and Engineering

46:38 The Value of Arts in Education

51:17 Building a Meaningful Creative Career

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In this episode of High Notes, we sit down with trailblazer Lynne Franks, a visionary in PR, fashion, and women’s empowerment. From shaping modern communications to founding movements that uplift and connect women, Lynne’s story is one of courage, creativity, and community.

Together, we explore her remarkable journey, from her early career breakthroughs to her transformative work with initiatives like the SEED community and the What Women Want campaign. Lynne opens up about the lessons learned along the way, the power of intergenerational wisdom, and why creating safe spaces for women’s stories is key to meaningful leadership.

Join us for a conversation on resilience, visibility, and purpose and discover how using your voice can spark real, lasting change.

Links:

https://lynnefranks.com/

TED Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V8Mi1YtGHwc

https://seednetwork.com/

https://www.whatwomenwantnow.co.uk/

Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:33 Meet Lynn Franks: A Journey of Resilience and Leadership

01:20 Early Influences and Career Beginnings

02:49 Pioneering in PR and Fashion

05:17 Empowering Women's Voices

07:18 Creating Safe Spaces for Women

11:30 The Seed Handbook and Sustainable Business

15:17 Wise Leadership and Community Change

23:27 What Women Want Campaign

31:45 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

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In this episode of High Notes, we sit down with legendary broadcaster, author, and coach Janey Lee Grace. From her days on BBC Radio 2 with Steve Wright to her work as a coach in heart-centred communication, Janey shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey.

She opens up about her memoir From Wham to Woo, her path to sobriety, and the transformative power of living, and communicating, with authenticity.

Together, we explore the art of meaningful connection: how preparation, presence, and joy can elevate your message and your work. Janey also reflects on the life-changing decision to quit alcohol, and how helping others discover their true voice has become her greatest passion.

Tune in for a conversation full of warmth, wisdom, and inspiration.

Links mentioned in the show:

https://janeyleegrace.com/

Janey’s books - https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/432760.Janey_Lee_Grace

The Sober Club Podcast - https://www.thesoberclub.com/podcast/

The Sober Diaries book by Clare Pooley https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36301974-the-sober-diaries

What Women Want - https://www.whatwomenwantnow.co.uk/ Find out more about this campaign in the next episode!

Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?

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Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:33 Meet Janie Lee Grace: Broadcaster, Author, and Coach

01:38 Janie's Early Years and Path to Radio

03:10 Lessons from BBC Radio with Steve Wright

05:29 The Art of Connection and Presence

06:53 Navigating Challenges and Finding Resilience

11:28 Writing a Memoir: From Wham to Woo

16:07 Empowering Others to Find Their Voice

19:58 Heart-Centred Communication in Business

23:23 The Power of Nonverbal Cues

24:15 Balancing Acting in Corporate Settings

24:42 Finding Your Authentic Business Voice

27:57 The Journey to Sobriety

36:09 Advice for Aspiring Public Speakers

38:50 Emerging Voices in Broadcasting and Coaching

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In this episode of High Notes, Melissa chats with Dr Rockford “Rocky” Sansom, a renowned voice coach and author, about the power and presence of the human voice. Together, they unpack how to manage nerves, why simplicity can transform communication, and how to make your voice truly resonate.

Rocky shares practical, down-to-earth strategies for building vocal confidence, connecting with your audience, and thriving in high-pressure situations. The conversation also touches on being authentically yourself, understanding what matters to your listeners, and using effective vocal tools to enhance impact.

They round out the discussion exploring cultural differences in communication, the evolution of voice science, and how emotion shapes the way we sound and connect.

Links:

https://www.rockfordsansom.com/

https://www.brava.uk.com/post/internationally-acclaimed-voice-coach-dr-rockford-sansom-joins-brava

Why Should Anyone Be Led by You?: What It Takes To Be An Authentic Leader - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Why-Should-Anyone-Led-You/dp/1578519713

https://historyofenglishpodcast.com/

Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:33 Meet Dr Rockford Sansom: Voice Coach Extraordinaire

01:29 The Essence of Presence and Overcoming Nerves

03:29 Finding Your True Voice

06:48 Impact and Influence in Business Communication

07:12 The Power of Breath and Storytelling

09:59 Comfort in Being Seen: Lessons from Leaders

14:52 Voice Actors in Professional Settings

17:10 Dispelling Myths About Public Speaking

23:55 Voice Pedagogy: Teaching and Techniques

27:27 The Wine Cork Technique

28:39 Voice Science in Coaching

31:06 Voice Analysis and Training

34:24 Changing Voices and Science

37:36 Voice in the Boardroom

43:02 Cultural Differences in Voice

46:55 Joining BRAVA as a Master Coach

48:25 Improving Vocal Presence

50:16 A Transformative Coaching Story

53:36 The Dynamic Nature of Voice Work

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of BRAVA High Notes, we dive into what it truly means to build creative confidence and find your voice with Tricia Duffy.

Tricia takes us through her inspiring journey, from a childhood filled with song and poetry to becoming a consultant, speaker, award-winning podcaster, creative mentor, and accomplished musician.

Together, we explore:

• Overcoming imposter syndrome
• The value of vocal training
• The magic of authenticity in creative expression

Tricia also shares insights from her own podcast, In Ten Years Time: How to Live a Creative Life, revealing how to think long-term about your creative journey and stay inspired along the way.

Whether you’re a voice actor, business leader, or simply looking to reconnect with your creative side, this episode will leave you motivated to speak, and live, with confidence.

Connect with Tricia: intenyearstime.com

Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?

Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:

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Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:38 Exploring Creative Confidence with Tricia Duffy

01:20 Tricia's Early Years and Formative Experiences

03:01 Evolving Relationship with Voice

05:37 The Craft of Voice Acting

06:39 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome

11:42 Maintaining Vocal Health

21:14 Tricia's Podcast and Long-Term Planning

28:35 Applying Method Acting to Songwriting

38:59 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

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In this episode, we talk with Colin Burgess, whose career spans royalty, the military, media, and BAFTA.

Colin reflects on how finding his own voice and approach to storytelling has shaped his journey. He shares early challenges, the lessons he’s learned about leadership and resilience, and insights into building a lasting career.

We also explore how BAFTA’s initiatives are helping to discover and support the next generation of creative talent.

Links:

The Artist-Driven Innovation Behind the Films We Love | Rob Bredow | TED

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3Yo7PULlPs

The Power of Vulnerability | Brené Brown | TED

youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o&vl=en

Do schools kill creativity? | Sir Ken Robinson | TED

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG9CE55wbtY

The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4224060-the-element

Meditations of Marcus Aurelius

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30659.Meditations

BAFTA - https://www.bafta.org/programmes/

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

01:20 Meet Colin Burgess: A Journey Through Diverse Careers

02:49 Early Leadership Lessons from the Military

07:37 The Power of Authentic Communication

13:31 Innovations in Storytelling and Technology

16:09 Nurturing New Voices at BAFTA

21:38 Building Resilient Careers in Creative Industries

24:35 The Two Halves of Your Career: IQ vs EQ

25:37 The Importance of Networking

26:00 Finding and Strengthening Your Voice

26:33 The Value of Mentorship and Learning

32:55 The Power of Storytelling and Operational Excellence

35:25 Influential Figures and Their Impact

38:31 Lessons from the Queen Mother

41:33 Advice for the Younger Self

42:39 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode, we sit down with Jane Duffus: author, journalist, and committed advocate for women’s voices.

We explore why it matters for women to claim space and be heard, how humour can transform storytelling, and the power of writing women back into history and everyday narratives.

Jane opens up about the lessons she’s learned from comedians, the fire that fuels her work, and the barriers she’s faced in male-dominated spaces.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on gender dynamics, practical tips for speaking with confidence, and the legacy of women writers who continue to inspire.

Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?

Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:

brava.uk.com/business

Stay connected with BRAVA

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:

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Follow us for more information

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/

https://www.facebook.com/bravauk

https://www.instagram.com/bravauk

Links

https://www.instagram.com/themanwhohasitall/?hl=en

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215344172-flipping-patriarchy

More about Jane: https://www.janeduffus.com/

00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:33 Guest Introduction: Jane Duffers

01:24 Challenges and Triumphs of Women's Voices

02:06 Taking Up Space: A Discussion on Gender Dynamics

04:35 Experiences in Journalism and Media

10:53 Storytelling and Comedy

14:59 Impact of COVID on Media Consumption

16:56 Subverting Storytelling Cliches About Women

20:36 Parody Accounts and Women's Magazines

23:34 The Comedy Night Initiative

26:14 Frustration as a Creative Force

30:41 Public Speaking as Performance

33:32 Advice for Aspiring Public Speakers

36:44 Influential Women in Journalism

39:47 Conclusion and Farewell

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of High Notes, host Melissa Thom speaks with Simon Lancaster, one of Britain’s most acclaimed speechwriters.

Simon traces his path from aspiring songwriter to shaping the words of top politicians and business leaders. They explore the art of persuasive communication, the timeless power of rhetoric, and why authenticity and emotion matter on stage.

With stories from his remarkable career, Simon offers practical strategies for crafting unforgettable speeches, from harnessing rhythm and repetition to mastering rhetorical devices that captivate an audience.

Tune in for practical insights on speaking with clarity and how to craft words that leave a lasting impression.

More about Simon:

https://www.bespokespeeches.com/

Speak like a Leader Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGBamfWasNQ

Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?

Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:

brava.uk.com/business

Stay connected with BRAVA

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:

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Follow us for more information

https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/

https://www.facebook.com/bravauk

https://www.instagram.com/bravauk

00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:30 Meet Simon Lancaster: Britain's Renowned Speech Writer

01:40 The Journey to Becoming a Political Speech Writer

03:14 The Art of Unforgettable Speeches

05:40 The Language of Leadership

07:05 Rhetorical Devices in Public Speaking

12:23 When Speeches Go Wrong: Lessons from Gerald Ratner

17:19 The Power of Rhetorical Devices: TEDx Talk Insights

21:31 Favourite Rhetorical Devices and Techniques

23:45 The Power of Hypnosis in Overcoming Nerves

26:02 Engaging Your Audience: The Role of Charisma

27:27 Finding Inspiration in Speech Writing

31:07 Building Confidence in Communication

33:29 Admiring Modern-Day Speakers

37:50 The Impact of Iconic Speeches

40:13 The Influence of Music and Funk

41:16 Conclusion and Farewell

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