From Noise to Authentic Voice
Last week, I wrote about the identity trap of "being informed" and how we can lose ourselves in the constant stream of external voices telling us what to think, feel, and prioritize. Find it on the blog here
So, as a follow-up, I pose this question:
In a world full of noise and AI generated content, how do we find our own voice again?
I'm excited to explore this with a room full of impressive CEOs and women entrepreneurs at the NAWBO Women's Empowerment Summit on October 3rd, where I'll be speaking on "Finding Your Voice and Sparking Your Story."
Join us — it’s going to be fantastic.
I’m tackling this topic because I see how we silence ourselves. Most of us know we have something important to say, but our approach looks like this:
Consuming endless content about "how to find your voice" without actually practicing using it
Waiting until we feel "ready" or have it all figured out before we speak up
Trying to sound like everyone else in our industry instead of embracing what makes us different
The result? We stay stuck in consumption mode instead of creation mode. We dilute our voice when the world needs exactly what we have to offer.
What I've discovered after years of helping people reclaim their authentic voice:
Your voice isn't something you find - it's something you uncover beneath all the layers of what you think you should say.
That's why I'll be walking through my approach to voice work at the NAWBO Richmond Summit:
How to distinguish between your authentic voice and the voices you've absorbed from others
Why your values are the foundation of your voice (not your expertise or credentials)
How to tell your story in a way that creates connection instead of word-vomiting information
If you're local to Richmond VA (or just a short trip away), I'd love to see you there!
Even if you can't attend, here's your takeaway for today:
Your voice emerges when you stop trying to sound like everyone else and start speaking from your truth.
At the same time, I've been having conversations with clients and organizations around another theme: the courage to be seen.
Speaking up in meetings when you have a different perspective
Sharing your story publicly for the first time
Taking a stand for something you believe in, even when it's uncomfortable
Trusting that your voice matters in a world that feels oversaturated with opinions
Every person who's ever found their voice faces these moments, so it’s tempting to stay quiet. We ask:
What if we’re wrong?
What if we’re misunderstood?
What if we don't sound smart enough or credentialed enough?
What if <insert whatever story you have about yourself here, dear friend.>
In truth, staying silent to avoid discomfort almost always costs more than speaking up authentically.
That's why I do what I do.
Whether I’m coaching a client to help them uncover who they really are beneath all the external noise, reconnecting them with what they value most, or identifying ways to help them use their voices in the world, the work is the same and includes:
Deep exploration of your authentic values (not the ones you think you should have)
Understanding the stories that drive you - and which ones are ready to evolve
Practical support, tools, and resources for showing up as yourself in your work and relationships
Ongoing guidance as you practice using your voice in bigger, bolder ways
This isn't about finding the "right" words or having the perfect talking points. It's about reconnecting with the voice you already have.
In a world full of manufactured opinions and borrowed thoughts, authenticity is revolutionary.
Your real voice - the one that comes from your values, your experience, your unique way of seeing the world - that's what people are actually hungry for.
xox, Michelle
P.S. If you’re seeking support through your next transition and want to do so authentically, let’s explore working together.
Can’t make the summit but want to explore this topic? Book me at your event!
Want to explore how to work together?
I do identity work. Whether you are looking to rediscover who you are now, realign and strategize a way forward, or want to reclaim your voice and show up in the world, I can help. Yes, this still includes brand content (which I love!) and business and life strategy. Everything touches — and I am here to support you in making meaningful progress.
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Be who you are. Lead with curiosity & love. The world will respond.
