Permission to Speak

December 19, 2022
Speech coach Bay helps women more effectively use their voices in this savvy debut. Too many women, Bay posits, speak in unnatural ways because they’re too critical of themselves. The problem, she writes, is externally imposed: society is conditioned to equate authority with the speech of (often white) male leaders—think JFK or Steve Jobs. To that end, Bay sets out to help women “own” their voices and communicate confidently. She breaks down breathing, pitch, and tone, blending practical tips with emotional insight. One chapter, for example, outlines ways for readers to find their “natural rhythm of diaphragmatic breathing” and explains “the better we breathe, the more powerful we feel.” Elsewhere, Bay discusses managing one’s voice (and self-confidence) in stressful situations like job interviews. The principles that can improve one’s speech, Bay makes clear, double as personal polestars—embracing imperfections, harnessing gratitude, and summoning confidence: “It’s hard to believe how much bravery is required to take up space,” but in doing so, women can “become the new sound of power.” Bay’s tone is spirited and encouraging, and there’s no shortage of takeaways for curious readers. Anyone looking to sharpen their speaking skills will want to give this a go.