High Notes

Melissa Thom
  • 5.0 (6)
  • PERFORMING ARTS
  • MONTHLY

High Notes is a podcast featuring conversations on the art and business of voice, hosted by voice actor and BRAVA CEO, Melissa Thom. From Mongolian throat singing to vocal health, accents, gaming, and more, HIGH NOTES uncovers the craft behind the business. Brought to you by https://www.brava.uk.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. In Conversation with Margaret Heffernan: Voice, Creativity, and Embracing Uncertainty

    15/12/2025

    In Conversation with Margaret Heffernan: Voice, Creativity, and Embracing Uncertainty

    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 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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    55 min
  2. Leading with Wisdom: Voice, Visibility & Purpose - with Lynne Franks

    08/12/2025

    Leading with Wisdom: Voice, Visibility & Purpose - with Lynne Franks

    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? 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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    35 min
  3. Executive Presence: Power, Clarity and the Courage to Speak Up with Janey Lee Grace

    01/12/2025

    Executive Presence: Power, Clarity and the Courage to Speak Up with Janey Lee Grace

    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? 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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  4. Influence & Impact: Owning your Voice in the Boardroom with Dr Rockford Sansom

    24/11/2025

    Influence & Impact: Owning your Voice in the Boardroom with Dr Rockford Sansom

    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? 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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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.

    55 min
  5. Creative Confidence: Finding Your Voice with Tricia Duffy

    17/11/2025

    Creative Confidence: Finding Your Voice with Tricia Duffy

    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 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: 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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    41 min
  6. The Resilient Voice: Colin Burgess on BAFTA, Legacy & New Talent

    10/11/2025

    The Resilient Voice: Colin Burgess on BAFTA, Legacy & New Talent

    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/ Follow us for more information https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravauk/ https://www.facebook.com/bravauk https://www.instagram.com/bravauk Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice: https://www.brava.uk.com/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  7. Women, Wit & the Power of Speech - A Chat with Jane Duffus

    03/11/2025

    Women, Wit & the Power of Speech - A Chat with Jane Duffus

    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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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.

    41 min
  8. The Language of Leadership - with Simon Lancaster

    27/10/2025

    The Language of Leadership - with Simon Lancaster

    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: brava.uk.com/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
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About

High Notes is a podcast featuring conversations on the art and business of voice, hosted by voice actor and BRAVA CEO, Melissa Thom. From Mongolian throat singing to vocal health, accents, gaming, and more, HIGH NOTES uncovers the craft behind the business. Brought to you by https://www.brava.uk.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Melissa Thom
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Melissa Thom
  • Show Website
    High Notes