Halloween week has me thinking about masks — not the costumes we put on for fun, but the ones we wear at work.
The competent, unbothered, always-have-an-answer mask that hides the very human parts of ourselves — uncertainty, curiosity, doubt. And here’s the truth: taking that mask off is exactly where your confident voice lives.
In this episode, I share how to:
Recognize the masks you wear and why.
Spot your inner critic (The Whipper) and step back from its script.
Connect with your confident voice beneath the mask — honest, grounded, present.
Practice showing up more fully without needing to perform.
Inner critic vs confident voice: how to spot The Whipper and reclaim your nervous system.
Practical exercises for softening the mask and showing up grounded.
Why confident leadership is about presence, not perfection.
JOIN THE CONFIDENT VOICE ACCELERATOR
If you’re ready to step into greater visibility and communicate with calm, grounded confidence, The Confident Voice Accelerator is for you.
Six-week 1:1 coaching program.
Two tracks: Founders of purpose-driven businesses and organizational leaders recently promoted into bigger roles.
Map your energy, regulate your nervous system, and speak clearly under pressure.
Build confidence that carries through every room (IRL and virtually), especially as we head into the holidays.
Doors close October 31st, program starts November 3rd.
Book your free discovery call to learn more and save your spot:
https://link.fgfunnels.com/widget/bookings/sow-to-speak
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/
If the word “networking' makes you suddenly want to stay home instead and clean your kitchen grout or alphabetize your spice rack, you're in good company.
In this episode, we’re talking about the quiet pressure that creeps in when you feel like you have to "work the room" — and what happens when you reframe that energy into something that actually feels like you.
You'll hear a story about one of my clients who did a simple language swap that changed everything. She replaced the phrase' networking event' with 'connection opportunity'.
Suddenly, her body relaxed. Her perspective shifted. She stopped performing and started showing up authentically like herself with a boatload more energy.
We unpack how one word can change your nervous system, your energy, and your confidence — and I'll walk you through a short exercise to help you find your why behind wanting to connect in the first place.
Because when you understand what really drives you, your confidence comes from a completely different place — not from proving, but from being.
Episode Highlights
Why 'networking' feels off for so many high-achieving women.
How reframing your language shifts your presence and perspective.
A short practice called the Five Whys that helps you uncover your deeper motivation for connection.
A visualization technique that helps you prep from a calm, grounded state — not a performative one.
Why your confident voice doesn't come from being polished, but from being anchored in yourself.
The Five Whys Exercise
When you think about what you genuinely want from networking with people (example: connecting with like-minded people), ask yourself:
Why is that important to me?
Why does that matter?
Why does that matter even more deeply?
Why am I craving that right now?
Why is it meaningful for where I am in my life and leadership?
Keep going until your answer moves from your head to your gut. That's your compass.
Ready to find and use your most confident voice?
you'reyou'reIf you're stepping into more visibility — whether that's leading around a boardroom table or hitting record to pitch your latest product or service — your nervous system will thank you for this next step.
The Confident Voice Accelerator is a six-week coaching program for high-achieving leaders who want to communicate clearly under pressure, speak with grounded confidence, and actually enjoy being seen.
There are two tracks:
One for founders leading purpose-driven businesses.
who have One for organizational leaders recently been promoted into bigger roles.
on We start November 3rd, and enrollment closes on October 27th. It's six weeks—you and me. Real conversations. Real results.
Book a discovery call here to learn more and save your spot.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection...
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
WANT TO WRITE A BOOK?
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/
Feeling derailed by unexpected conversations at work? Feedback that comes out of nowhere, budget questions in a meeting, or moments when your brain races faster than your mouth? You’re not alone — and you can stay calm, collected, and confident.
In this episode, we break down how emotionally intelligent leaders handle messy moments without losing their composure. This is practical, actionable stuff — not theory.
Episode Highlights:
→ Why your brain hijacks your voice in high-stakes moments (and how to catch it before it happens)
→ The step-by-step pause that keeps you grounded
→ Two real-life “before and after” scenarios showing exactly how to respond in ways that maintain authority, clarity, and confidence
→ Language and mindset shifts you can use immediately to stay in control
Practical Takeaways:
Pause before responding — even two seconds can save your composure and authority
Notice and name your emotions — reduce stress and gain clarity before speaking
Respond strategically — language that validates, creates space, and sets up a productive next step
Your Next Move:
Join me tomorrow, October 14th at 1 PM EST, for my free live masterclass:
Say It Like You Mean It: Find and Use Your Most Confident Voice
I’ll share the exact practices and reframes that clients say completely change their leadership presence and energy before they walk into a room or open their mouth. You’ll finally feel free — not fearful — to speak up, run meetings, or delegate.
Reserve your spot here: https://sowtospeak.com/live
During the masterclass, I’ll also introduce The Confident Voice Accelerator, our 6-week 1:1 program starting November 3rd, where we map your energy and stress patterns so you can speak with a consistently steady, confident, and clear voice in any situation.
So be sure to save your spot and join us for the free Masterclass here: https://sowtospeak.com/live
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and public speaking programs.
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/
You know that moment right before you speak — when your heart’s pounding, your throat tightens, and your brain suddenly blanks?
That’s not you being unprepared. That’s your nervous system trying to keep you safe.
In this short, to-the-point episode, we unpack what’s really happening in your body before high-stakes conversations — and how to work with it, not against it — so your voice can finally keep up with your ideas.
You’ll walk away with a simple, body-based technique you can use anytime you need to find your steady, confident voice — whether it’s in a meeting, a tough conversation, or a big presentation.
EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
→ Why your body’s stress response hijacks your voice (and how to stop taking it personally)
→ A quick 3-step grounding practice you can do in under 30 seconds
→ The link between physiological safety and vocal confidence
→ What real calm sounds like — and why it’s your secret communication superpower
LISTEN IF...
You’re tired of overthinking every word and want to sound as confident as you actually are.
YOUR NEXT MOVE
Join me for my free live masterclass, Tuesday, October 14th:
Say It Like You Mean It: Find and Use Your Most Confident Voice.
You’ll learn how to regulate your nervous system, quiet self-doubt, and communicate with clarity and calm — even when the stakes are high.
→ Reserve your spot: https://sowtospeak.com/live
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
LOOKING TO WRITE A BOOK?
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/
This week on The Sow to Speak podcast, I’m digging into a topic we all know a little too well: overwhelm—the kind that leaves you scattered, exhausted, and questioning whether you’re actually making progress or just spinning your wheels and sharing the other kind.
Two types of overwhelm?? Yes, and when you can discern the difference, everything changes.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
The two types of overwhelm (yes, there’s more than one).
How to know if your overwhelm is the sign of growth—or a signal to stop.
What “I feel out of control” usually means.
Real-world examples at home and work that will make you say, “Oh my god, that’s me.”
A simple question that can bring you back online when you’re in mental quicksand.
If difficult conversations are part of what's overwhelming you, my two-month program, UNmuted, is here to help. You’ll learn sustainable tools and practices to finally handle those conversations for good. No more overthinking. No more avoiding. Just clarity, confidence, and calm you can count on.
Set up a free call here to learn more about UNmuted. I have 5 spots available. Make sure one of them has your name on it.
Doors close September 28th.
Sow to Soul:
Overwhelm is a compass—if you learn to read it, it points you to clarity.
Journal Prompts:
What one thing can I control today that will bring me back online?
Am I overwhelmed because I’m expanding—or because I’m spinning?
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
DREAMING OF WRITING A BOOK?
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/
You’ve likely been praised for your grit. Your ability to hold it together. To power through.
But here’s the thing: endurance isn’t the same as resilience.
In this episode, we delve into the subtle yet critical difference between the two. Because while endurance might help you survive, resilience is what allows you to actually thrive.
And that difference? It matters now more than ever.
We kick off with a powerful quote from neuropsychologist Rick Hanson that reframes what it really means to be resilient:
“Resilience is the capacity inside us to both survive the worst day of our lives and thrive every day of our life.”
With school starting and new seasons kicking off, many of us feel the pull of fresh structure. It’s often when we realize how much we’ve been white-knuckling through.
This is your reminder: you don’t have to keep powering through.
We’ll explore:
The key difference between endurance and resilience—and why confusing the two can lead to burnout.
Real-life stories of high-achieving leaders like the SVP who "pushed through" until the crash, and the nonprofit director who confused numbness with strength.
What resilience actually looks like in action (hint: it involves both tenderness and truth-telling).
Why high-capacity humans often mistake survival for strength—and how to shift that pattern.
Three grounded ways to practice resilience, especially if you’ve spent most of your life enduring.
Whether you’re in a season of rebuilding or holding it all together (again), this episode offers you a breath, a mirror, and a new way forward.
Sow to Soul One-Liner: Resilience isn’t about pushing through—it’s about coming back to yourself, over and over again.
Journal Prompts:
Ready to go from holding it all in to being heard without losing yourself in the process?
Join me inside UNmuted—my 8-week high-touch program centered on helping you navigate difficult conversations so you can learn to reclaim your voice, your presence, and your peace.
For More Soulful Leadership Tools
Subscribe to the Sow to Soul newsletter for weekly journal prompts, grounded practices, and ways to reconnect to your inner clarity and power.
What if the very thing you’re doing to "stay strong" as a leader is actually what’s quietly draining you?
In this episode of the Sow to Speak Podcast, we continue our August series—a love letter to the words we live by—by unpacking two that sound alike but couldn’t be more different: self-protection and self-preservation.
For high-achieving, emotionally intelligent leaders, this distinction isn’t just semantics—it’s essential. Because the difference between bracing and sustaining? It’s the difference between burnout and embodied leadership.
Here’s what we cover in this episode:
The critical difference between self-protection and self-preservation.
What your nervous system is doing in each state, and why it matters for your clarity, connection, and capacity.
Three leadership case studies: a COO, a skincare founder, and an SVP of HR—and how the shift from protection to preservation looks and feels in real life.
What emotional intelligence and brain science say about how you lead under stress.
Three clear and practical ways to start choosing self-preservation in your day-to-day leadership.
Journal prompt from the episode:
Where in my leadership am I armoring up when I could be tuning in?
What might shift this week if I chose preservation over protection?
Ready to go deeper?
Join me for the free masterclass: From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust—a practical and powerful session that will have you learn how to uncover and use your most authentic and confident voice for good.
Sign up here: https://sowtospeak.com/live
If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone you lead or someone you love.
And if you haven’t already, subscribe to the show and leave a review. It helps get these conversations into the ears of more leaders who are ready to lead with clarity, confidence, and calm.
See you next week.
EPISODE MENTIONED: Conversation with Andrew Hartman founder of Time Boss
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
You may think you’re being strong… but are you actually just bracing?
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the subtle (but game-changing) difference between being hardened, tough, and truly strong. For heart-centered, high-achieving leaders, it’s easy to slip into emotional armor without even realizing it—especially when the pressures of people-pleasing, overthinking, and perfectionism are quietly running the show.
We’ll explore:
How these words feel in your body and leadership energy.
Why confusing toughness with resilience is a trap.
3 practical strategies to shift from bracing to anchored strength—without losing your edge.
You’ll also hear my personal take on the definition of soft and how my Inner Whipper has tried to shut it down. And, why “strength” is way softer (and more powerful) than you’ve been led to believe.
Plus—don’t miss your chance to join in for my free 90-minute masterclass on August 12th: From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust. The number one skill you’ll learn will change how you communicate for good. It's not a tool; it's a straight-up transformation.
Join us here: https://sowtospeak.com/live
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
You’ve got the title. The meetings. The responsibilities. And yet some days, you wonder... Where did I go in all of this?
In this final episode of our June series on Embodied Presence & Leadership, I unpack what to do when your leadership role feels like it's pulling you away from your true self.
Whether you're a founder navigating fast growth or a senior leader in meetings all day, you'll leave this episode with practices to help you feel whole again—in your body, your leadership, and your voice.
Tune in to explore how your nervous system and your inner dialogue shape your leadership presence—and what to do when you're stuck in overdrive, self-doubt, or emotional exhaustion.
Episode Highlights:
The #1 question to ask yourself when your leadership feels disconnected—and what Jill Bolte Taylor's research reveals about it
A breakdown of my signature newly updated Personification Posse™ method: seven internal voices that shape your leadership energy and presence
The science of emotional intelligence and how naming your inner dialogue creates nervous system regulation
Why witnessing your thoughts (rather than being ruled by them) restores clarity, empathy, and grounded leadership
Plus, 3 clear practices you can use today:
Reclaim wholeness by remembering a moment when you felt fully yourself—and what to do if you can't remember one
Use an emotional check-in that gets you out of your head and back into your body
Reclaim your presence before high-stakes meetings with quick, practical rituals that help your full self walk into the room
If you've ever felt like your success is growing but your sense of self is shrinking, this one's for you.
Listen now to reconnect with what matters most—you.
This week's Sow to Soul: The most powerful leader in the room isn’t the one who says the most—it’s the one who brings their whole self with them.
✨ Special Reminder:Tomorrow is our free masterclass: From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: Discover the #1 Tool to Unlock Your Confident, Unshakable Voice—For Good.
Join us Tuesday, July 8th at 10am PST / 1pm EST for real, practical tools to:
Quiet self-doubt and cultivate leadership clarity
Shift from proving yourself to owning your voice
Leave with practices you can use immediately to feel confident in your visibility
Save your spot here: https://sowtospeak.com/live
Past leaders have called it:
“Exceptionally clear and fully actionable. Ready to implement immediately. Great for anyone fully trying to embrace their leadership role.”
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
Not every opportunity that appears to be aligned on the outside is actually aligned.
And not every “no” means you’re closing a door. Sometimes it means you’re clearing space for the right one to open.
In this episode, I’m sharing what happened when I was invited into a collaboration that, on paper, seemed like a great fit—but didn’t feel right in my body. I’ll unpack how I moved through it, why I chose to say no, and what it revealed about my own leadership focus and self-trust.
Because discernment isn’t drama. It’s devotion. And it’s the key to leading in a way that doesn’t just check the boxes—but actually sustains you.
Inside this episode, we’ll explore:
▸ The difference between collaboration that expands you—and the kind that drains you
▸ How to discern between a fear-based no and an intuitive one
▸ The “please and appease” reflex (and how to catch it before it hijacks your clarity)
▸ 3 practical tools to strengthen your gut-trust and nervous system regulation
▸ What to do when your Inner Whipper voice starts doubting your decision
▸ How embodied presence supports real-time, high-stakes leadership moments
Favorite takeaways:
→ Leadership doesn’t begin in the boardroom. It begins in the body.
→ The people meant for your work will meet you in your clarity—not your compromise.
JOIN THE FREE MASTERCLASS: Want to go deeper into this work?
Join me for my free 90-minute masterclass:
From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: Discover the #1 Tool to Uncover Your Unshakable, Confident Voice for Good
Tuesday, July 8 at 10am PST / 1pm EST
This 90-minute experience is built for high-achieving, human-centered leaders who want to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and impact—without losing themselves in the process.
We keep it intimate—only 10 spots—so grab yours while it’s available.
Past leaders have called it:
"Life changing!"
"So powerful!"
“Exceptionally clear and fully actionable."
" Ready to implement immediately."
" Great for anyone fully trying to embrace their leadership role.”
And if someone you know could also benefit from this work, please pass it on. Power in numbers.
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
In this third episode of our June series on Embodied Presence & Leadership, we’re talking about what it really takes for your voice to match your rising visibility.
Whether you’re leading at the senior level or growing your business as a founder, being seen in bigger rooms can stir up overfunctioning, overexplaining, or shrinking your message entirely—even when you know you’re qualified.
In this episode, I break down:
Why your nervous system reacts to visibility like it’s vulnerability
What to do when your body wants to perform instead of lead
5 simple, science-backed tools that help you feel anchored and in your voice when the pressure’s on
We’ll go beyond “just breathe” and into real tools—like cold wrist resets, vagus nerve humming, and the back-body presence shift that changes the way you speak in high-stakes moments.
You’ll leave with practical, soulful strategies that help you stop proving and start owning the moment.
Reflection prompt:
Where in your body do you feel the pressure to perform—and what would it feel like to just be?
Sow to Soul:
You don’t need to prove you belong in the spotlight—you just need to stay connected to the part of you that knows you already do.
Liked this episode?
If you're gaining visibility and want support in embodying your presence and voice with confidence and clarity, let's talk. Book a discovery call to explore how coaching can help you develop your leadership voice and presence.
JOIN IN FOR THE MONTHLY MASTERCLASS
→ Upcoming Free Masterclass
From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust:
Tuesday, July 8th at 10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST
Save your spot here : https://sowtospeak.com/live
This 90-minute experience is built for high-achieving, human-centered leaders who want to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and impact—without losing themselves in the process.
We keep it intimate—only 10 spots—so grab yours while it’s available.
Past leaders have called it:
“Exceptionally clear and fully actionable. Ready to implement immediately. Great for anyone fully trying to embrace their leadership role.”
"Just - WOW!"
"Total game-changer."
"These strategies really work!"
"I finally had "the" conversation I'd been dreading."
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
This month on the Sow to Speak podcast, we’re breaking down what it actually means to lead with your voice—without burning out your nervous system in the process.
Because real leadership?
It doesn’t start in the boardroom. Or your LinkedIn bio. Or that shiny keynote script.
It starts in your body.
In this second episode of our June series on embodied leadership and voice, we’re unpacking one of the most common ways high-achievers accidentally dilute their presence:
Over-explaining.
If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting and thought, “Why did I keep talking?” or “I wish I could just say less and still be taken seriously…”—this one’s for you.
We cover:
◼️ What “embodied” leadership actually means (and how to tell if your voice and body aren’t on the same team)
◼️ The real reason we over-explain—and it’s not because you don’t know what you’re doing
◼️ What over-explaining sounds like in the wild (and how it quietly chips away at your credibility)
◼️ A 3-part shift to stop spiraling into explanation mode—and start communicating with clarity, calm, and self-trust
◼️ A simple nervous system reset you can use before you speak
◼️ The P.R.E.P. model (your new best friend for saying what matters—without the mental gymnastics)
Tomorrow, I’m hosting a free 90-minute session where we’ll go deeper into the tools that help human-first, high-achieving leaders stop second-guessing themselves and start communicating like they mean it—without over-performing or over-preparing.
We’re capping it at 10 people to keep it intimate and actionable.
We’re already 75% full. Join the Free Masterclass: From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: Grab your seat here.
Sow to Soul takeaway:
Every time you explain yourself out of discomfort, you water down your power.
Every time you pause and trust your presence, you plant a deeper root of self-respect.
Let this episode be your permission slip to say less—and mean more.
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
This month on The Sow to Speak Podcast, we’re bringing your voice back to where it actually lives—your body. If you’ve ever found yourself scrambling for the right words, blanking in a big moment, or walking away from a meeting thinking “That just wasn’t me”—this series is for you.
Embodied communication isn’t fluff. It’s what helps your voice come through as clear, grounded, and real—especially in high-stakes moments. Over the next few weeks, I’m sharing simple, practical, science-backed practices that reconnect you to your body and regulate your nervous system so your voice doesn’t just sound strong—it feels like you.
When you feel more at home in your body, you show up in ways you're proud of. You stop performing and start connecting—and the more you practice, the more natural it becomes.
In this episode, we’ll explore why trying to “nail the words” often backfires—and what to do instead.
Here’s what you’ll hear:
Why clarity starts in your body, not your brain
The #1 thing most high-achievers do that unintentionally sabotages their voice (and what to try instead)
A simple, 3-step body check that takes less than 30 seconds but makes a powerful shift in how you speak
What your voice is trying to tell you when it “feels off”
One grounding practice to try before your next meeting or high-stakes conversation
Plus: a powerful reframe for leaders who are tired of performing and ready to actually connect.
Your Turn:
Where in your body do you notice yourself holding back when you speak?
What might shift if that part of you softened—even just a little?
DM me or tag @kristymandour on IG or LinkedIn (links below)—I’d love to hear what’s true for you.
✨ This week's Sow to Soul:
“Your most confident voice isn’t something you earn—it’s something you remember.”
JOIN THE FREE MONTHLY MASTERCLASS
If this episode resonated, don’t miss my free 90-minute masterclass: From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust
Tuesday, June 10th at 1pm EST
This is for leaders who have secured a seat at the table and want to present themselves with their most confident, genuine voice.
You’ll learn:
The 3 secrets every inspirational leader uses
Practical, embodied tools to regulate your system and clarify your message
Mental shifts that make your voice land—without the overthinking
We cap the group at 10 people so everyone gets personal, real-time support.
Grab your seat now →
Past leaders have called the masterclass:
“Exceptionally clear and fully actionable. Ready to implement immediately. Great for anyone fully trying to embrace their leadership role.”
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature programs, Lead Out Loud and Present with Presence .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
We’re closing out our Mental Health Awareness Month mini-series with an episode that speaks directly to what so many high-achieving women feel but rarely say out loud:
Why am I still so tired—even after I “rest”?
In this final installment, we look at why you might feel depleted, even when you’ve technically slowed down. The truth? A lot of what we call rest…isn’t. It’s shut down. It’s numbing. And while numbing isn’t failure, it is feedback.
This episode isn’t about shame—it’s about shedding light and shifting gears so you can lead from a grounded place, not just functioning.
→ What you’ll hear in this episode:
› The crucial difference between zoning out and numbing out (hint: Love on the Spectrum = nourishing, doom scrolling = not)
› The 3 types of real rest your nervous system actually needs
› Why your current “rest” might be draining you more than you think
› A simple but powerful question to ask yourself before you hit the couch
› How to identify what kind of pause your body and mind are actually asking for
This is nervous system care that goes way beyond bubble baths and PTO. It’s about learning how to really refuel—without checking out or pushing through. Happy Listening!
—
JOIN IN FOR THE MONTHLY SOW TO SPEAK MASTERCLASS
→ Upcoming Free Masterclass
From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: Uncover the 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
Tuesday, June 10th at 1:00 PM EST
Save your spot here : https://sowtospeak.com/live
This 90-minute experience is built for high-achieving, human-centered leaders who want to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and impact—without losing themselves in the process.
We keep it intimate—only 10 spots—so grab yours while it’s available.
Past leaders have called it:
“Exceptionally clear and fully actionable. Ready to implement immediately. Great for anyone fully trying to embrace their leadership role.”
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
This is the third episode in our Mental Health Awareness Month series, and we’re going there today: Support.
Not the Pinterest-perfect kind. The kind you actually need.
If you're the one others count on—at work, at home, in the group chat—you may have tricked yourself into thinking you should carry more because you can. But this episode will have you asking a different question:
"Who’s helping me hold this?"
Because high-capacity doesn’t mean self-sacrificing.
And asking for help? That’s not weakness. That’s wise leadership.
In this episode, we cover:
The reason smart, capable women avoid support—and why that’s hurting more than helping
How your nervous system actually responds to your “I’ll handle it” mode
How to identify your 2–3 real-deal people (no village required)
A three-part practice to bring support into your leadership without guilt, apology, or spreadsheets
The truth about why “You can’t pour from an empty cup” doesn’t go far enough
Asking for support is not a luxury—it’s leadership.
And for many women leading at high levels, it’s a lifeline.
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
Ever feel like your emotions hijack your voice right when you need it most?
You're not alone—and you're definitely not broken. You're just human.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode is a powerful continuation of our May theme, created especially for human-centered, high-achieving leaders.
We’re diving deep into the science and energetics behind nervous system regulation, especially in those high-stakes moments when staying calm feels impossible.
If you’ve ever:
Spiraled into overthinking
Reacted in ways you later regretted
Felt like you lost your edge under pressure
...this episode is your deep exhale. You'll walk away with six practical strategies to help you:
Reset in real time
Complete the stress cycle afterward
All rooted in neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and energy leadership.
Episode Highlights:
The real reason we create drama—and how it connects to our unexpressed purpose
The surprising connection between worry and creativity
The 90-second truth every emotionally intelligent leader should know
What to do in the moment when your nervous system is activated
How to safely come back and process emotion without spiraling
Why your voice is clearer and more powerful when your energy is regulated
RESOURCES + NEXT STEPS
Free Monthly Masterclass:
From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
*JOIN the next live class here.
Curious About Working Together?
Explore our signature leadership coaching program, Lead Out Loud, and start leading with clarity, confidence, and calm.
*BOOK your free discovery call here.
Free Resource for High-Stakes Conversations:
Talk the Talk: The Confident Leader’s Guide to Navigating Tough Talks
*GRAB your free guide here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about us here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
Welcome to The Sow to Speak Podcast. In this special four-part series for Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re diving into topics that often get skipped over—but silently impact how we show up, especially as high-achieving, people-first leaders.
In today’s episode, we’re kicking off with a question that doesn’t show up in calendar invites: How’s your capacity—really?
If you’re feeling tired even after sleeping, snapping more often than you’d like, or wondering why you’re doing all the things but still feel off… this one’s for you.
In this episode, we cover:
Why a jam-packed schedule isn’t the same as healthy capacity (and how to tell the difference)
What your nervous system actually has to do with leadership presence (hint: everything)
The telltale signs that you’re outside your window of capacity—and why it’s not your fault
A 30-second nervous system check-in you can use anytime, anywhere
What it really looks like to honor your energy without compromising your ambition
This episode is an invitation to pause—not just for rest, but for reconnection. Because leadership from the inside out? It starts with awareness.
Ready for more tools that help you lead with grounded clarity?
Join me for my free 90-minute masterclass:
From Self-Doubt to Trusted Voice: 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
Register here: https://sowtospeak.com/live
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
If you've ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “What did I even just say?”—you're not alone. When your mind is cluttered, your message usually is too. This episode wraps up our April declutter series with something every high-achieving leader needs: message clarity.
Because if your words are doing too much heavy lifting, you're probably not being heard the way you want. We’ll talk about how to clear the internal cobwebs so what you actually mean is what gets through—whether you’re talking to your team, your boss, or your own inner narrator.
In This Episode, We Cover:
→ A simple shift that helps you lead meetings without rambling or overexplaining
→ The W.H.O. method for prepping your message—even for quick, low-stakes convos
→ What most leaders skip (but shouldn’t) when they’re trying to sound strategic
→ How to adapt your message to the audience without losing your voice
→ The #1 way to know if your message is cluttered (and what to do instead)
→ Why message clarity starts with self-trust, not scripting
Join me for our upcoming 90-minute masterclass:
From Self-Doubt to Trusted Voice: The 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
Tuesday, May 13 at 1pm ET
You’ll walk away with:
→ A 4-part framework that works in real conversations, not just theory
→ Clear, adaptable language to delegate with ease—on your terms
→ Scripts and phrases to set the tone in any convo, without shrinking or steamrolling
Spots are limited—save yours now.
Register for the master class here.
We’ll see you back here next month as we kick off a new series in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. You won’t want to miss it.
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/
We’re closing out our Mental Health Awareness Month mini-series with an episode that speaks directly to what so many high-achieving women feel but rarely say out loud:
Why am I still so tired—even after I “rest”?
In this final installment, we look at why you might feel depleted, even when you’ve technically slowed down. The truth? A lot of what we call rest…isn’t. It’s shutdown. It’s numbing. And while numbing isn’t failure, it is feedback.
This episode isn’t about shame—it’s about shedding light and shifting gears so you can lead from a grounded place, not just functioning.
—
→ What you’ll hear in this episode:
› The crucial difference between zoning out and numbing out (hint: Love on the Spectrum = nourishing, doom scrolling = not)
› The three types of real rest your nervous system needs
› Why your current “rest” might be draining you more than you think
› A simple but powerful question to ask yourself before you hit the couch
› How to identify what kind of pause your body and mind are actually asking for
This is nervous system care that goes way beyond bubble baths and PTO. It’s about learning how to really refuel—without checking out or pushing through.
—
→ Upcoming Free 90-Minute Masterclass
From Self-Doubt to Self-Trust: Uncover the 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
Tuesday, June 10th at 1:00 PM EST
Save your spot here
This free 90-minute experience is designed for high-achieving, human-centered leaders who want to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and impact without losing themselves in the process.
We keep it intimate—only 10 spots—so grab yours while it’s available.
Past leaders have called the masterclass:
“Exceptionally clear and fully actionable. Strategies and exercises are ready to implement immediately. Great for anyone fully trying to embrace their leadership role.”
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
Welcome back to The Sow to Speak Podcast. This is part three of our spring cleaning series for high-impact, human-centered leaders.
If your leadership voice has been feeling a little buried—under other people’s expectations, your own self-doubt, or just the sheer volume of day-to-day noise—this episode is here to help you find your way back to clarity and confidence.
Before we dive in, a quick heads-up:
On Tuesday, May 13th at 1:00 pm ET, I’m hosting a free, 90-minute masterclass: From Self-Doubt to Trusted Voice: The 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
If you’ve been craving a way to communicate without overthinking or overexplaining, this is for you.
You’ll walk away with strategies to:
Get out of your head and into your voice
Delegate without the guilt
Communicate with presence, not just polish
Today's episode is all about clearing the noise around your leadership voice—so you can speak with more clarity, confidence, and authenticity.
Here’s what we cover:
→ Strategy 1: Prepare for Every Conversation Using the S.O.W. Method
You don’t need to script every word—but you do need a plan. We walk through a simple way to prep for both big meetings and quick check-ins, so your message is intentional and to the point.
→ Strategy 2: Ask Questions That Help You Understand (The Mirror Technique)
Strong communication isn’t about saying more—it’s about understanding more. This technique helps you ask the right questions, build trust, and respond with greater clarity.
→ Strategy 3: Use the Power Pause
Less is often more. We explore how short, purposeful statements and well-placed pauses can make your words land harder—without trying harder.
You’ll leave this episode with:
A new lens on how you prepare, listen, and speak as a leader
Permission to stop over-explaining and start trusting your voice
Tactical tools you can use in your next conversation
→ Coming up next: We’ll tackle how to declutter your message so it’s more concise, impactful, and inspiring. You won’t want to miss it.
In the meantime, make sure you’re registered for the free May 13th master class: From Self-Doubt to Trusted Voice: The 3 Communication Secrets Every Inspirational Leader Knows
Register here
WORK WITH ME
If you’re ready to become a master communicator, book a free discovery call here to learn more about my signature communication and leadership program, Lead Out Loud .
Together, let’s transform your hesitant voice into a powerful presence once and for all.
Dive into the details about the Lead Out Loud program here.
RATE AND REVIEW THE PODCAST
Thanks for listening! Be sure to rate and review this episode wherever you're listening in from so others can discover the podcast, too. And, of course, let me know what you connected with the most!
Speaking of connection:
Learn more about Kristy and Sow to Speak here.
CONNECT WITH ME:
Ready to write your book?
**Special for Sow to Speak listeners: Take a look and save $250 on Scriptor Publishing's From Polished to Print book package here: https://ll107.isrefer.com/go/p2p250/kristym/