High Notes

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_GraceThe Sober Club Podcast - https://www.thesoberclub.com/podcast/The Sober Diaries book by Clare Pooley https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36301974-the-sober-diariesWhat 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?Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:brava.uk.com/businessStay connected with BRAVASubscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:33 Meet Janie Lee Grace: Broadcaster, Author, and Coach01:38 Janie's Early Years and Path to Radio03:10 Lessons from BBC Radio with Steve Wright05:29 The Art of Connection and Presence06:53 Navigating Challenges and Finding Resilience11:28 Writing a Memoir: From Wham to Woo16:07 Empowering Others to Find Their Voice19:58 Heart-Centred Communication in Business23:23 The Power of Nonverbal Cues24:15 Balancing Acting in Corporate Settings24:42 Finding Your Authentic Business Voice27:57 The Journey to Sobriety36:09 Advice for Aspiring Public Speakers38:50 Emerging Voices in Broadcasting and Coaching

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-bravaWhy 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/1578519713https://historyofenglishpodcast.com/Ready to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:brava.uk.com/businessStay connected with BRAVASubscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:33 Meet Dr Rockford Sansom: Voice Coach Extraordinaire01:29 The Essence of Presence and Overcoming Nerves03:29 Finding Your True Voice06:48 Impact and Influence in Business Communication07:12 The Power of Breath and Storytelling09:59 Comfort in Being Seen: Lessons from Leaders14:52 Voice Actors in Professional Settings17:10 Dispelling Myths About Public Speaking23:55 Voice Pedagogy: Teaching and Techniques27:27 The Wine Cork Technique28:39 Voice Science in Coaching31:06 Voice Analysis and Training34:24 Changing Voices and Science37:36 Voice in the Boardroom43:02 Cultural Differences in Voice46:55 Joining BRAVA as a Master Coach48:25 Improving Vocal Presence50:16 A Transformative Coaching Story53:36 The Dynamic Nature of Voice Work

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 syndromeThe value of vocal trainingThe magic of authenticity in creative expressionTricia 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.comReady to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:brava.uk.com/businessStay connected with BRAVASubscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:38 Exploring Creative Confidence with Tricia Duffy01:20 Tricia's Early Years and Formative Experiences03:01 Evolving Relationship with Voice05:37 The Craft of Voice Acting06:39 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome11:42 Maintaining Vocal Health21:14 Tricia's Podcast and Long-Term Planning28:35 Applying Method Acting to Songwriting38:59 Final Thoughts and Future Vision

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 | TEDhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3Yo7PULlPsThe Power of Vulnerability | Brené Brown | TEDyoutube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7o&vl=enDo schools kill creativity? | Sir Ken Robinson | TEDhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG9CE55wbtYThe Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everythinghttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4224060-the-elementMeditations of Marcus Aureliushttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30659.MeditationsBAFTA - https://www.bafta.org/programmes/Follow us for more informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/https://www.facebook.com/bravaukhttps://www.instagram.com/bravaukSubscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice:https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast01:20 Meet Colin Burgess: A Journey Through Diverse Careers02:49 Early Leadership Lessons from the Military07:37 The Power of Authentic Communication13:31 Innovations in Storytelling and Technology16:09 Nurturing New Voices at BAFTA21:38 Building Resilient Careers in Creative Industries24:35 The Two Halves of Your Career: IQ vs EQ25:37 The Importance of Networking26:00 Finding and Strengthening Your Voice26:33 The Value of Mentorship and Learning32:55 The Power of Storytelling and Operational Excellence35:25 Influential Figures and Their Impact38:31 Lessons from the Queen Mother41:33 Advice for the Younger Self42:39 Conclusion and Farewell

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/businessStay connected with BRAVASubscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:brava.uk.com/subscribeFollow us for more informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/https://www.facebook.com/bravaukhttps://www.instagram.com/bravaukLinks https://www.instagram.com/themanwhohasitall/?hl=enhttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215344172-flipping-patriarchyMore about Jane: https://www.janeduffus.com/00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:33 Guest Introduction: Jane Duffers01:24 Challenges and Triumphs of Women's Voices02:06 Taking Up Space: A Discussion on Gender Dynamics04:35 Experiences in Journalism and Media10:53 Storytelling and Comedy14:59 Impact of COVID on Media Consumption16:56 Subverting Storytelling Cliches About Women20:36 Parody Accounts and Women's Magazines23:34 The Comedy Night Initiative26:14 Frustration as a Creative Force30:41 Public Speaking as Performance33:32 Advice for Aspiring Public Speakers36:44 Influential Women in Journalism39:47 Conclusion and Farewell

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=bGBamfWasNQReady to elevate your voice, confidence, and communication at work?Contact us at BRAVA Business and start making every conversation count:brava.uk.com/businessStay connected with BRAVASubscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, training opportunities and insights connecting business, acting, and voice:brava.uk.com/subscribeFollow us for more informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/https://www.facebook.com/bravaukhttps://www.instagram.com/bravauk00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:30 Meet Simon Lancaster: Britain's Renowned Speech Writer01:40 The Journey to Becoming a Political Speech Writer03:14 The Art of Unforgettable Speeches05:40 The Language of Leadership07:05 Rhetorical Devices in Public Speaking12:23 When Speeches Go Wrong: Lessons from Gerald Ratner17:19 The Power of Rhetorical Devices: TEDx Talk Insights21:31 Favourite Rhetorical Devices and Techniques23:45 The Power of Hypnosis in Overcoming Nerves26:02 Engaging Your Audience: The Role of Charisma27:27 Finding Inspiration in Speech Writing31:07 Building Confidence in Communication33:29 Admiring Modern-Day Speakers37:50 The Impact of Iconic Speeches40:13 The Influence of Music and Funk41:16 Conclusion and Farewell

High Notes returns for its third season with Words at Work, a series about the role of voice in business.BRAVA founder, Melissa Thom talks to leading figures across business, culture, and communication: Simon Lancaster, Margaret Heffernan, Dr. Rockford Sansom, Jane Duffus, Colin Burgess, Tricia Duffy, Lynne Franks, and Janey Lee Grace.Together, they explore how voice shapes influence, leadership, and true connection at work: how to stay composed under pressure, engage an audience and speak with authority.Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform, or visit brava.uk.com/podcast for more.Season 3 GuestsSimon Lancaster: speechwriter to business and political leaders, on the Language of Leadership and the hidden patterns that make communication persuasive.Jane Duffus: writer and historian, on Women, Wit & the Power of Speech and how women’s voices have shaped, and continue to shape public life.Colin Burgess: BAFTA’s Executive Director of Operations, on the Resilient Voice, building legacy, and nurturing new creative voices in film, games and television.Tricia Duffy: leadership coach, on Creative Confidence and finding your voice in times of change and uncertainty.Dr. Rockford Sansom: voice coach to executives worldwide, on Influence & Impact, and how leaders can speak with presence in the boardroom.Janey Lee Grace: BBC broadcasting legend and coach, on Executive Presence, clarity, sobriety and having the courage to speak up.Lynne Franks: author, entrepreneur, communications strategist and fashion pioneer on Leading with Wisdom, and using voice as a force for visibility, purpose, and change.Margaret Heffernan: business thinker, writer and voted one of the "Top 100 Media Executives" by The Hollywood Reporter on Voice, Creativity and Embracing Uncertainty, and why leadership today demands adaptability.High Notes — where every performance is a conversation.Subscribe now so you never miss an episode.Follow us for more informationhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/https://www.facebook.com/bravaukhttps://www.instagram.com/bravaukSubscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice:https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe

In this episode of High Notes, we sit down with Tom Keegan, an acclaimed performance director behind major AAA titles such as Jedi: Fallen Order, Wolfenstein, Call of Duty, World of Warcraft and more.Based in LA, Tom reflects on his creatively rich upbringing and his path to becoming a leading figure in video game performance direction. The conversation looks at the evolution of voice performance in games, the power of subtext, and what sets video game acting apart from other forms of voice work.He also previews his upcoming book, The Complete Guide to Video Game Performance Directing: Place, Time, Action, offering practical insights into the craft, your own creativity, and other deeply human aspects of game development.Whether you're an aspiring actor, director, or simply fascinated by the art behind your favourite games, this episode offers a compelling look into the world of interactive storytelling.https://www.tomkeegan.net/https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1146741/https://www.instagram.com/tomkstudios/https://www.routledge.com/The-Complete-Guide-to-Videogame-Performance-Directing-Place-Time-Action/Keegan/p/book/9781032914541?srsltid=AfmBOoroDSYuJU8bQauYeiIyWVq2CgLfuM35ClTVL7dvRCk4BhaG2UdiSubscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for news updates, training opportunities, and more from the world of business, acting and voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast00:52 Meet Tom Keegan: Journey to Video Game Performance Direction02:58 The Art of Voice Acting in Video Games04:12 Tom Keegan's New Book: A Guide for Directors and Actors10:03 Understanding Place, Time, and Action in Voice Acting12:31 Common Mistakes in Performance Capture and VO Booths17:02 BRAVA: Elevate Your Voice Acting Skills17:46 Tapping into Emotional Truth in Imaginary Worlds20:22 The Physicality of Voice Acting23:28 The Evolution of Voice Performance24:32 Casting Voice Actors for Games26:32 Finding Subtext in Game Scripts28:49 Unlocking Great Performances31:56 Self-Care for Directors and Actors35:00 The Importance of Coaching36:41 Skills for Iconic Storytelling Projects38:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts