Soulful Speaking

Welcome to the very first episode of the Soulful Speaking Podcast!
Forget the nerve-wracking, industrial methods you’ve been taught; it’s time to embrace a more authentic, creative, and soulful way of sharing your voice with the world.
In this episode, Lauri dives deep into her personal journey and passion for transforming the speaking landscape. From a young child finding solace in storytelling to a seasoned speaker and coach, Lauri shares how speaking is more than just a necessary skill—it's a spiritual path.

She challenges the outdated notion of “industrial speaking,” which molds speakers into a one-size-fits-all template, and instead, invites you to explore a soulful, authentic, and transformative approach to sharing your voice with the world. Whether you're a reluctant leader or a seasoned speaker, this episode will inspire you to embrace your unique magic and step into your full power.

Tune in and learn how to set yourself free from outdated, rigid speaking styles and embrace your one-of-a-kind way.
TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:

1. Speaking is more than just a necessary skill—it's a spiritual teacher.
(just like money, relationships and health.)

2. The universe brings us soulful speaking fire that fuels our transformation, burning away everything that is not our true selves.

3. If those “industrial” speaking programs have failed you, it's not you, it's them.

4. Some people have managed to maintain their natural radiance in the industrial speaking world, but that’s in spite of those programs, not because of them.

5. Presence begins where primal and purpose meet.

6. Outdated leader-speakers are not what the world needs now. You are.

7. We are the ones we have been waiting for.

8. Every sound that we make, every word that we say, every silence that we choose is a chance for us to honor our soul's purpose.

9. Being seen begins with a choice. A choice to make our calling more important than our fear.

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Take the Speaker Alter Ego quiz to find out which protective mask hides your natural radiance so you can learn how to get present, connect deeply, and share your vision when it matters most!
https://voice-matters.com/speaker-alter-ego-quiz/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Find Your Voice at the Family Table

Soulful Speaking

12/17/24 • 26 min

Navigating family gatherings during the holidays can feel like stepping into a minefield of old dynamics, unspoken tensions, and soul-sucking habits. In this episode of Soulful Speaking, Lauri invites you to explore the voices you use throughout your life - including with those closest to you. Uncover how your different voices impact your presence so you can unleash your true voice. Through personal stories, reflective exercises, and soulful visualizations, Lauri shares tools to help you transform old family patterns by honoring your values. Whether around the holiday table or on the stage, this episode will help you align with your most empowered, authentic self.

TAKEAWAYS:

Family gatherings are fertile ground for noticing and shifting old speaking patterns that impact every area of our lives, including the stage.
We may have a different “family voice” from our true voice; recognizing this is the first step to change.
Our inner child and teenager can influence how we show up with family, often to protect us from past pain or discomfort.
Releasing our “soul suckers” and inner protectors creates space for our soulful presence.
Setting an intention rooted in our values can transform family dynamics and foster deeper connection.
When we integrate our younger selves without allowing them to be in charge of how we show up, our relationship to family transforms.
Our presence alone can shift the energy in a room, creating an invitation for others to align with our intentions.

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

From Overthinking to Flow: Unlock Your True Speaking Voice

Soulful Speaking

03/18/25 • 44 min

In this episode of Soulful Speaking, we delve into the transformative power of breath and intention as host Lauri Smith coaches guest Eric Ayers.
Together, they explore how to move beyond imposter syndrome, embrace flow, and tap into the natural energy of authentic communication. Using her Intend, Align, Invite framework, Lauri helps Eric shift from overthinking to fully embodying his message. Through breathwork, energetic alignment, and real-time practice, Eric discovers how to deepen his connection with his audience and speak from his truest self.

If you’ve ever struggled with pausing, trusting your voice, or feeling fully present when speaking, this episode will give you actionable insights to step into your power.

TAKEAWAYS:
1. Speaking is about connection, not perfection. Replace trying to say everything "right" with meeting your audience where they’re at.

2. Trust yourself. Overcome imposter syndrome with a leap of faith. Trust in your knowledge, your energy, and your ability to serve the moment.

3. Your breath fuels your voice. Learning to breathe deeply and naturally can transform your speaking presence.

4. Pauses are powerful. Silence creates space for your audience to absorb your words and connect emotionally.

5. Energetic alignment creates impact. When you center your body, breath, and energy, your voice carries more resonance and ease and touches the audience in a different way.

6. Your five-year-old self knew the truth. Reclaiming the true voice you had as a child can unlock your most radiant speaking style.

7. Set an intention before you speak. Name what you want your audience to feel, then align your presence to embody that energy.

8. Movement and voice are connected. When you release tension in your body, your voice flows more freely.

9. The best speakers don’t "perform" - they show up as themselves. You are enough. You were born enough. Embrace the present moment.

About Eric:
Eric Ayers is an Alignment Practitioner and the founder of emc2, LLC, where he artfully bridges ancient wisdom with modern innovation to spark profound transformation. His life's purpose centers on igniting transformative experiences in others. Through his signature "Align by Design" methodology, he helps individuals discover their authentic path, while his groundbreaking Sim | RxTM approach revolutionizes organizational culture by harmonizing i

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Beyond Silence: The Healing Power of Being Heard

Soulful Speaking

12/10/24 • 53 min

How do you transform a voice that feels discordant into one that resonates with power, clarity, and heart?

In this episode of Soulful Speaking, Lauri interviews Candis Fox, a cognitive and behavioral science expert with a deep understanding of myth and human patterning. Born into a world where their relentless curiosity was often labeled as “annoying,” Candis’ early life experiences initially stifled their voice. Candis opens up about their deeply personal journey from silence to vocal freedom. Together, Lauri and Candis discuss the complexities of bravery and vulnerability as they explore the power of presence, the importance of showing up for others, and how true connection goes beyond words.
TAKEAWAYS:

Vulnerability is Brave: Acts of bravery often feel like fear and trauma when you’re in the midst of them. Trust those closest to you who see your courage even when you don’t.
Own Your Voice: When you align your voice, heart, mind, and body you’ll ultimately draw the right people into your life and business.
Just Show Up: Simply being there for someone going through darkness or hard times is the most powerful thing you can do.
“Nos” are Powerful. Setting boundaries is key to cultivate authentic relationships based on mutual respect, not pedestal-placing.
Embrace Joy: Healing and personal growth can emerge from mischief and play.

About Candis:
Candis Fox (any pronoun) has combined their 10+ years in cognitive & behavioral science, Master’s in Education and lifelong study of myth & human patterning to provide leaders and families deepen their relational intelligence. Candis provides regenerative, effective strategies & practices for matching internal and external success through the art of relating.

Connect with Candis:
https://candisfox.com/
https://take.quiz-maker.com/QQ72XDA1C
https://www.linkedin.com/in/candisfox/

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Finding Your Voice: A Journey Through Spiritual Puberty

Soulful Speaking

01/07/25 • 51 min

In this powerful episode, Lauri dives deep with Nick Palladino-King, a conscious coach and mentor, exploring the vulnerable journey of finding one's authentic voice. Nick shares his experiences of "spiritual puberty," a process of shedding fear and stepping into deeper self-expression. He opens up about his evolution from an eager, opinionated young teacher to a grounded leader who embraces neutrality and non-judgment, allowing audiences to engage deeply with his message. Together, they uncover how self-doubt, protective patterns, and inner critics (or "soul suckers") can obscure our truth—and how we can courageously navigate through them to let our true selves resonate. This conversation is a reminder of the invisible ripples created when we choose authenticity over performance.
TAKEAWAYS

“Spiritual puberty” is a transformative stage in self-expression, where the soul’s true voice begins to emerge.
When we’re our true selves, we create invisible ripples: an impact that can resonate far beyond what we’re aware of at the time.
The “protector” within often holds back our true selves out of fear of judgment; releasing it allows for more raw and impactful expression.
Embracing authenticity over performance allows for deeper connections, as people connect with your real self rather than a mask.
Treat your Soul as CEO and allow your inner critics and protective parts to act as helpers, not decision-makers.

About Nick: Nick Palladino (IG: @nickpalladinoking) is the Co-founder and CEO of Tribe- Fitness, Yoga and Coaching, a San Francisco based wellness company founded on the holistic health philosophy he calls “Complete Health and Wellness.” Tribe is a leading wellness company in the Bay Area focused on inspiring leadership and health in individuals and companies.
Connect with Nick: www.nickpalladino.co

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Soul Over Strategy: Finding the Aliveness in Speaking

Soulful Speaking

04/01/25 • 33 min

In a special flipped episode, Brian Perry turns the tables and interviews Soulful Speaking host Lauri Smith, diving into her journey of learning to surrender to creativity, let go of control, and serve the moment fully. Together, they explore the magic of playing beyond fear and tuning into the energy of aliveness. Brian highlights Lauri’s personal evolution, from following external formulas to embracing her authentic voice, and her philosophy on speaking from the soul. Lauri shares her insights on how to feel for the “neon lights” vibration in your words, move from tension to ease, and truly embody your message with authenticity. This episode dives deep into how spiritual alignment and creativity can transform public speaking into a powerful tool for self-expression and connection.
TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Authenticity is Powerful: Following formulas can stifle what makes you unique. Authenticity allows your true voice to shine.
Let Your Soul Drive: Putting your soul in the driver’s seat when creating and sharing your message makes you a Soul-Driven Leader.
Small Groups are Magical: There’s a far more transformative power in small, intimate speaking groups than there is in large, impersonal programs.
Speaking is a Spiritual Journey: The process of shedding what doesn’t serve you and embracing vulnerability leads to profound growth in both speaking and life.
Connect and Play: Like acting, speaking is a co-creative process with your audience. They’re your scene partners!
Choose Service Over Strategy: Prioritize service and purpose over “doing it right” or chasing financial success.
Presence is Powerful: Tapping into a heightened sense of awareness during performance creates an electric experience for you and your audience.
Trust the Process: Once you move through the fear you’re free to step into creative flow and play, which is the heart of what engages audiences fully.
Follow the Aliveness: Tune into what feels "open and alive" versus "shut down" and then play with that energy to unleash your one-of-a-kind radiance.

About Brian From Brian:
I help you claim, live, and share more of your once-in-any-lifetime story. Because living your story matters. (Also, it’s more fun.) I serve as a singer-songwriter, authentic communication coach, and speaker.

My sound lives at the intersection of James Taylor and Bruce Springsteen with Garth Brooks directing traffic. Most days, that looks like me and my guitar telling stories with a few chords and as much truth as we can manage.

Authentic communication coaching helps you feel more like yourself and be more of yourself in the world. Stepping free of the endless masking of adulting. It feels like an act of bravery. Until it’s just obvious.

These days, my customized talks center around embracing uncertainty, the power of curiosity, and living more of your once-in-any-lifetime story.

But enough about me. Let’s talk about you.

Connect with Brian

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Beyond the Mask: From Armor to Aliveness

Soulful Speaking

04/15/25 • 42 min

What happens when the voice you’ve been told you have to use isn’t your own?

Executive coach and organizational change consultant Dana Baugh joins Soulful Speaking to share her journey from corporate leader—where she was encouraged to “man up” and mask her true self—to a more heart-centered, present, and authentic speaker. Her story reveals what can unfold when we follow the quiet voice urging us away from external achievement and toward inner alignment.

Together, we explore what it means to stand at the crossroads between societal expectations and soul truth—between performing who we think we should be and expressing who we truly are.

If you've ever felt like success and fulfillment should be the same thing, but aren’t... if you’ve struggled with feeling like you have to put on a mask to speak... this episode is for you.

Tune in for a soulful conversation about intuition, energy, and the power of showing up as your whole self. Dana’s journey offers both inspiration and grounded, practical wisdom for anyone feeling the disconnect between outer success and inner fulfillment.

TAKEAWAYS
1. Our intuition knows before our mind. When something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s a job, a path, or a speaking style—our inner voice usually notices first. Learning to listen to that quiet inner voice can change everything.

2. Success and fulfillment aren’t the same. We can follow all the rules and still feel like something vital is missing.
3. Embrace the third way. We don’t have to choose between staying silent or wearing a mask that doesn’t fit. There’s a third way to speak—one that honors who we truly are.

4. Presence is the foundation of soulful speaking. When we’re grounded in body, breath, and energy, connection happens naturally.
5. Everything is energy. Whether we’re with horses, people, or an audience—authentic presence and deep connection are felt beyond words.
6. Community matters. Surrounding ourselves with others walking the same path helps us stay aligned with our truth.
7. Simple practices help us return. Movement, nature, and quiet listening bring us back when old patterns creep in—and that’s part of the journey.
8. Speaking is a full-body experience. Moving beyond the “talking head” approach allows our whole message—and whole self—to come through.
9. Trust the unfolding. We don’t have to figure it all out. When we

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Brain Freeze Busters: Stop the Freeze Before it Starts (mini-sode)

Soulful Speaking

03/25/25 • 6 min

Brain freeze doesn’t happen in the moment—it starts long before we step up to the mic. In this mini-sode, Lauri explores how to prevent that icy mental shutdown before it ever takes hold. She dives into the hidden ways we set ourselves up to freeze and how to shift from freeze to flow by setting clear intentions, organizing thoughts effectively, and practicing in a way that builds trust instead of tension. If you’ve ever worried about going blank, this one’s for you.

TAKEAWAYS:

Your focus shapes your reality – If you fixate on forgetting, you’re more likely to freeze. Shift your attention to presence and connection instead for a more flow-filled experience.
Intention is everything – Setting a clear intention for the energy you want to create will help guide your words and ease your nerves.
Structure and practice build trust – Organizing content in 3s and practicing in a way that builds presence (not rote memorization) helps prevent those “going blank” moments.

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Breaking the Mold: From Silent Ballerina to Authentic Speaker

Soulful Speaking

01/21/25 • 46 min

In this interactive episode of Soulful Speaking, Bridget Baker, brand strategist and former ballet dancer, shares her transformative journey from communicating through movement to finding her voice after a life-altering car accident. Bridget and Lauri explore the challenges of speaking authentically, overcoming inner critics, and letting go of societal molds to embrace the power of self-expression. Together, they delve into what it means to speak with soul and how stepping into one’s uniqueness can be a game-changer in both life and business.
TAKEAWAYS

Life’s unexpected pivots can awaken new passions
Connecting deeply with our values helps us build a brand and embody a message that truly represents us.
Embracing imperfections and focusing on connection over perfection when presenting makes us relatable and memorable..
Speaking isn’t just about words—it's about energy, intention, and connection.
Setting clear intentions allows us to focus on who we’’re serving rather than what we fear.

About Bridget:
Bridget Baker's upbringing in a creatively nurturing environment shaped her into being a multifaceted force. From retail and jewelry making and professional dancing, she found her superpower is giving people permission to be themselves. Today, she is the founder and CEO of Bridget Baker Branding, a company dedicated to crafting impactul brands and websites for people who help people. Her work emphasizes amplifying the voices of BIPOC clients and advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Connect with Bridget:
bridgetbakerbranding.com
instagram.com/bridgetbakerbranding

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/

Transforming Terror into Trust: Maurine’s Journey

Soulful Speaking

10/15/24 • 35 min

In this episode of Soulful Speaking, Lauri welcomes transformational leader and ontological guide, Maurine Xavier. Maurine shares her seven-year journey from fear and resistance to confidence and joy in speaking. She shares the milestones that shaped her path, from befriending her terror to embracing her divine purpose. Join Lauri and Maurine as they explore the power of speaking as a spiritual practice, the importance of following joy, and the magic of trusting your voice.

TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE:

Befriending Fear: Acknowledging and befriending fear is an important part of the speaking journey.
The Alchemy of Commitment: Commitment to the journey and purpose helps transform fear and resistance/ into alignment and joy.
The Power of Trust: Growing our trust muscle is an important part of a transformative speaking journey.
Joy as a Compass: Following our joy can help us align with our true purpose and increase our impact.
The Importance of ‘Why’: Staying connected to purpose helps us stay grounded as we navigate challenges.
Transforming Fear: It’s possible to shift from living in fear to embracing it as part of our spiritual paths.
Speaking as a Spiritual Practice: Speaking can be a powerful spiritual teacher and transformative experience.

About Maurine:
As a Director of Transformation and Spiritual Guide, Maurine Xavier is committed to assisting you to live your best life. After being on a lifelong healing journey combined with three decades in finance and accounting, Maurine uses transformation, life experience, and Divine Guidance to lead you to peace, freedom, and joy.

Using her decade’s experience as a Transformational Leader, a Channel for a team of Divine Guides, an Ontological Guide, and Coach and Teacher of The Diamond Co-Creative System®️, Maurine assists you to surface your deepest wounds, transform who you are being, and heal once and for all. When you partner with Maurine, you can go from doubting yourself, confused, and living on the hamster wheel to being and feeling confident, trusting, and in the flow.

Maurine is also an inspirational Speaker and two-time International Best-Selling Co-Author.

Connect with Maurine:
https://www.MaurineXavier.com
https://bit.ly/Zoom30MX

Join me for the next Soulful Speaking Immersion and take this soul-stirring transformative approach to speaking into your body and out into the world.
https://voice-matters.com/soulful-speaking/

Thank you so much for listening!

Take the free quiz and learn which Soul SuckerTM you need to release to free your voice: https://voice-matters.com/soul-sucker-quiz/

Follow me on:

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/