Speak to Be Heard: Unlocking the True Power of Your Voice

Pocholo De Leon Gonzales, The VoiceMaster

This article walks you through the insights and experiences of Pocholo “The VoiceMaster” Gonzales. With years in the industry—spanning dubbing, voiceovers, radio, commercials, and even AI voices—Pocholo has discovered what truly makes a voice impactful. Now, he shares his wisdom to help others speak in a way that commands attention and respect.

Many people feel unheard, no matter how much they explain themselves. Pocholo has observed this throughout his career in the voice industry. He has realized something crucial: not everyone who speaks is truly heard.

So, how can speakers ensure that their words are not just heard but also understood and remembered? Let’s break it down.

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Things That Kill Credibility

Before diving into effective speaking techniques, it is important to address common habits that can damage credibility. Here are a few behaviors to avoid:

1. Gossiping. Using one’s voice only to bring others down results in a loss of respect. People will assume that the same behavior continues behind their backs.

2. Judging too quickly. Listeners find it difficult to engage with someone who acts like they know everything and looks down on others. Conversations should be about understanding, not condemning.

3. Negativity overload. Constant complaints about everything—the weather, the government, other people—without offering solutions can be exhausting for listeners.

4. Making excuses. Those who never take responsibility for their mistakes struggle to gain credibility. Owning up to errors earns respect.

5. Being overly dramatic. Exaggerating minor issues into full-blown crises can make people stop listening. Keeping things balanced and real helps maintain engagement.

6. Forcing opinions. People tend to tune out know-it-alls. Sometimes, listening is more powerful than insisting on being right.

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The Four Pillars of Powerful Speaking

For a voice to truly resonate, it must be built on four key principles:

1. Honesty. Speaking the truth is essential. There is no need for elaborate words—being real and authentic is always more effective.

2. Authenticity. People connect with genuine speakers, not those who try to imitate others.

3. Integrity. A person’s words should align with their actions. When they commit to something, following through strengthens their credibility.

4. Love. Speaking with kindness and care makes a lasting impression. People are drawn to those who uplift rather than tear down.

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The Technical Side of the Voice

Beyond mindset, technical aspects of speech also play a crucial role in effective communication:

1. Timbre – What Does the Voice Sound Like?

A speaker’s voice can be warm and comforting or sharp and intimidating. A smooth, rich voice tends to draw people in, much like a cup of hot chocolate on a cold day.

2. Tone – How Is It Said?

A monotone voice can be dull and unengaging. Varying tone emphasizes emotions and keeps listeners interested.

3. Speed – How Fast or Slow Is Speech?

Speaking at the same pace throughout a conversation can make it monotonous. Slowing down at key moments adds weight to important words, and pauses can be incredibly powerful.

4. Warm-Ups – Preparing the Voice

Just like athletes warm up before a game, the voice needs preparation too. Helpful exercises include:

• Deep breathing

• Lip vibrations

• Pronouncing vowels loudly

• Rolling the tongue

• Doing a “siren” sound from high to low

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The Voice Is a Gift—Use It Wisely

At its core, the voice is more than just sound—it is a tool, a gift, and a responsibility. It should be used to uplift, inspire, and make a difference.

✔ Speak to build, not to destroy.
✔ Speak to bring change, not to boast.
✔ Speak to lift others up, not to tear them down.
✔ Most importantly, speak in a way that reflects kindness, love, and truth.

In a world full of noise, a voice with direction, purpose, and heart will always stand out.

So, how will your voice be used?

Make your voice matter.