The Courageous Performer

What's the real difference between a  good performer and a truly great one? In this episode, I reflect on what I learned at a recent conference with some of the world's leading voices in psychology and neurobiology. All of the presenters were polished, knowledgeable and engaging - but only a few created that deeper sense of safety, connection and authenticity that makes an audience lean in and tru...

Ever notice how one critical remark can overshadow all the praise you've received? For years, I let one critical comment overshadow every compliment I received. In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast , I share how I stopped letting negative feedback crush my confidence and started using it to grow. I'll walk you through the exact three steps I use to decide what to take on board—and w...

Do your inner voices whisper things like: "You're not good enough." "You're going to mess this up." "You're too much… or maybe not enough?" Welcome to the club. It's noisy in here. In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast, I share the story of how I spent decades trying to outperform my inner critic—and how that voice still managed to stop me singing for nearly 20 years. And it didn't j...

Ever noticed how you can receive ten lovely compliments… and one slightly arched eyebrow… and somehow that's the bit that sticks? In this episode, I'm talking about the sneaky pull of external validation—the kind of feedback we long for but often don't believe when we get it. I share what I've learned (often the hard way) about how needing a certain response from your audience, your peers, or even...

Do you ever feel like the harder you try to control your performance, the more things seem to go wrong? In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast , I explore why control isn't the solution—it's the problem. I'll share insights from a coaching session with a performer facing a high-stakes audition, unpack how the need for control creates tension and self-doubt, and show you what actually...

We all feel embarrassed or vulnerable at times—even those of us who teach confidence for a living! In this episode, I share two personal stories that pushed me to confront my inner critic and navigate the uncomfortable feelings of self-doubt. Learn the tools I use to overcome embarrassment, fact-check fears, and embrace my imperfect, authentic self. If you've ever struggled to put yourself out the...

Handling criticism is tough for any performer, whether you're on stage or in the boardroom. In this episode of The Courageous Performer , I explore how to transform feedback - both external and internal - into a powerful tool for growth, rather than a source of self-doubt. We'll discuss: How to quiet that harsh inner critic that often holds us back. Three essential questions to ask yourself when f...

Do you feel like each performance is a pass-or-fail test of your worth? In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast , Hattie Voelcker explores why it's so common for performers to tie their value to their achievements on stage—and how this mindset creates unnecessary pressure that can make performing a struggle rather than a joy. Hattie dives into practical strategies to help you separate...

In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast, I share my Free Your Voice process, designed to help you feel confident, comfortable, and free on stage. I'll walk you through the five essential steps to transform your mindset and approach, from understanding your performance's purpose and audience to tackling your fears and building a plan. Plus, I have exciting news about my free 5-day chall...

In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast , I'm diving into something I think is fundamental to everything I teach — how changing your thoughts can totally transform the way you perform. Ever wonder if you can switch your mindset while you're actually in front of an audience? The answer is yes, and I'll tell you exactly how! I'll be sharing personal stories and tips to help you manage th...

In this episode of  The Courageous Performer Podcast , I'm diving into a big question: Do you believe in extraordinary? And more importantly, do you believe you can be extraordinary? I'll be sharing some personal stories, including one about a cancelled flight and how I turned it into something positive. It's all about the stories we tell ourselves and how they shape our lives. If you're ready to...

In this episode, I'm getting real about something that's plagued me for years—stage fright. Hi, I'm Hattie Voelcker, and today I'm sharing my personal journey of battling nerves, self-doubt, and the pressure to be perfect every time I stepped on stage. I'll take you behind the scenes of my life as a singer and aspiring barrister, where I was convinced that if I just nailed my technique, everything...

In this milestone 60th episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast, host Hattie Voelcker delves into a crucial topic for anyone looking to enhance their performance skills—how to exude confidence without slipping into arrogance. Hattie breaks down the misconceptions around confidence and arrogance, explaining how they are often misunderstood as points on the same spectrum. She reveals the surprisi...

Ever heard the phrase "Feel the fear and do it anyway"? It's a popular saying, but does it really work? In this episode, Hattie Voelcker dives into what that really means and whether it's the best approach. She shares her own experiences as a barrister and a performance coach, revealing why simply pushing through fear doesn't always cut it. Instead, Hattie talks about the power of acknowledging yo...

In this episode of  The Courageous Performer , I'm telling you all about some really useful techniques for staying grounded while performing. Whether you're a singer, public speaker, or any kind of performer, staying connected and present can be a challenge. I'm sharing some personal stories and practical tips, starting with a simple method to bring your focus back to your body and out of your hea...

Do you ever feel like you completely disconnect from the world just before or during your performance? In this insightful episode I delve into the common issue of disconnection that many so performers face. I draw from my own experiences and some of my recent coaching sessions. I will also be sharing some practical strategies in order to help performers maintain a strong connection with their audi...

Do nerves take over when you perform? Have you ever questioned whether you respect and are kind to yourself as a performer? In Episode 56 of the Courageous Performer Podcast, we uncover a surprising technique to conquer performance anxiety and enhance your presentation skills: kindness and respect. In this episode, we revisit Liz's incredible journey of regaining her confidence and love for perfor...

In this episode of the Courageous Performer podcast, I share the inspiring story of Liz Walsh, a professional singer who faced an unexpected and daunting challenge. After losing her voice on stage, Liz's confidence was shattered, and she retreated from the spotlight she once loved. But Liz's story doesn't end there. Discover how Liz, with my guidance, embarked on a transformative journey of resili...

In this episode of The Courageous Performer Podcast, I dive into how to create a genuine connection with your audience. I struggled with imposter syndrome and fear of judgment for years, both as a barrister and singer. Listen to get my insights and practical tips to help you overcome these challenges. Discover why connection is crucial for impactful performances, how to engage your audience effect...

In this special episode of "The Courageous Performer Podcast", I'm giving you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what I do day-to-day as a confidence coach. Join me, Hattie Voelcker, as I take you through my week filled with coaching singers, actors, and public speakers to help them feel comfortable and confident in front of any audience. In This Episode: Introduction to My Work : Learn about...

In this episode of the Courageous Performer podcast, I share actionable strategies to enhance your stage presence. Discover how to connect deeply with your material, foster a positive view of your audience, and show empathy towards yourself to feel more confident and present on stage. I emphasise that stage presence is a skill that anyone can learn. I'll guide you on the journey to overcoming nerv...

There are things you can do that make your over critic stronger, and there are things you can do to make it calm down. This episode/video is all about how to stop feeding your inner critic making it louder and more viscous, and how you can quieten it.

How much energy do you use trying to mask the bits of you you don't like? How much of your attention does this take up? If you are constantly trying to manage how people judge you it can be exhausting, and actually lead to you coming across and more awkward because you are overthinking. Being yourself takes less energy and allows you to focus on what you are performing, and your audience, with mor...

Should you be yourself when you perform? For me this is not really the issue. The issue is whether you are able to be yourself or whether there is some reason you find it hard to be yourself. Is there some part of you that feels like an imposter or that you should somehow be better. If you are constantly feeling that you are not good enough it will take your time, attention and energy keeping this...

Fear is your mechanism for keeping you safe. It is not your enemy, just an overattentive friend! In this episode I talk about how stultifying and restrictive fear can be and what you can to to let of if it and perform with freedom. This episode is how to move from  fear  to  trust   in your performing. Take a listen. If you would like to learn how to let go and perform brilliantly, so that you can...