Even some of the world’s best speakers—Steve Jobs, Brené Brown, and yes, even Oprah—struggled with speaking anxiety before mastering their craft. The good news? Confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you build.
And today, we’re building it.
The Truth About Public Speaking & On-Camera Fear
Let’s get one thing straight: speaking fear isn’t about speaking. It’s about survival.
Your brain sees an audience (or a camera) and thinks: “Oh no, we’re about to be judged and rejected. This could kill us!” It’s leftover programming from our caveman days when being cast out of the tribe was a death sentence.
But here’s the twist: Public speaking is one of the most powerful skills a professional can develop. Whether you’re leading a team, pitching an idea, or creating content, your ability to communicate with confidence can open doors you never knew existed.
So how do we rewire your brain and train your voice for success?
Step 1: Train Your Voice Like a Pro
Roger Love, one of the most sought-after voice coaches (clients include Tony Robbins, Reese Witherspoon, and Brendon Burchard), teaches that great speaking is not about the words—it’s about the sound.
🔥 1. Master Your Breath (Because Holding It Won’t Help)
Most people take shallow breaths when they’re nervous, making their voice sound weak. Instead:
✔️ Breathe from your diaphragm (not your chest). Place a hand on your stomach—if it’s moving, you’re breathing correctly.
✔️ Inhale through your nose, exhale on a “shhh” sound for control.
✔️ Pause before you speak. Own the silence. It builds authority.
🎤 2. Warm Up Like a Performer (Because You Are One)
Vocal warm-ups aren’t just for singers. Before your big talk or recording, try this:
✔️ The Lip Trill: Say “brrrr” like a motorboat to relax your vocal cords.
✔️ The Siren: Glide your voice from low to high like a firetruck. It stretches your vocal range.
✔️ Hum on an “Mmm” sound—it activates resonance and clarity.
📢 3. Find Your Optimal Pitch (No More Squeaky or Dull Voices!)
Roger Love teaches that your “middle voice” (a mix of chest and head voice) is where charisma lives.
✔️ Record yourself speaking. If you sound flat or nasal, you’re stuck in one register.
✔️ Practice speaking slightly lower and with more warmth. Think Morgan Freeman meets your best energetic self.
🍏 4. Eat a Green Apple Before Speaking
Crazy but true: The pectin in green apples reduces mouth noise and clears your voice. Ever wonder why news anchors always sound crisp? Now you know.
Step 2: Overcome Fear with a Performer’s Mindset
Even world-class presenters felt stage fright at some point. What changed?
💡 1. Reframe Your Anxiety as Energy
Instead of thinking, “I’m nervous,” tell yourself, “I’m excited.” It’s the same physiological response—your brain just needs a new story.
👁️ 2. Stop Making It About You
Your audience isn’t there to judge you—they’re there to learn, be inspired, or be entertained. Focus on serving them, and you’ll forget about yourself.
🎯 3. Use the “Three-Second Rule”
Brendon Burchard, a top performance coach, says: “As soon as you’re introduced, take three full seconds before speaking.”
✔️ It shows confidence.
✔️ It makes people lean in.
✔️ It gives your brain a moment to adjust.
Step 3: Become Magnetic On Camera
Cameras are weird. There’s no energy exchange like in a live room, which makes many professionals feel awkward. Here’s how to fix that:
🎥 1. Speak to ONE Person, Not the Camera
Imagine your best friend sitting behind the lens. Talk directly to them, and suddenly, you’ll feel and sound more natural.
🎭 2. Use Bigger Facial Expressions
On camera, small movements disappear.
✔️ Smile slightly bigger.
✔️ Use your hands to emphasize points.
✔️ Keep your energy 10% higher than usual (or you’ll come off flat).
📍 3. Stand Instead of Sit
Your energy comes through more dynamically when you stand. If you must sit, sit on the edge of your seat with a straight posture—this keeps your voice and body engaged.
Step 4: Bonus Power Hacks from the Greats
✔️ Steve Jobs: Paused. A lot. Silence adds power.
✔️ Brené Brown: Told vulnerable stories. Relatability builds trust.
✔️ Oprah: Mastered her tone. She speaks with warmth and authority.
✔️ Barack Obama: Uses deliberate pacing. Slow down when making key points.
Final Thoughts: Own Your Voice, Own the Room
Your voice isn’t just a sound—it’s your power. By training it, embracing the nerves, and learning from the best, you can become the kind of speaker people remember.
Next time you step on stage or press “record,” remember: You don’t need to be perfect. You need to be present. And that’s something you can start mastering today.
Now, go grab that green apple and take center stage! 🎤🍏
What’s Your Next Move?
🚀 Try one of the vocal warm-ups today and notice the difference.
📩 Share this with a friend who needs more confidence speaking.
📅 Book your next speaking gig or video session—because the best way to improve is to do it.
What’s one speaking fear you’re ready to conquer? Let’s talk!
