Samara Bay, author of Permission to Speak, is here to reframe how we think about our voices—and the power they carry. Her work is for anyone who’s ever been told to sound different, speak softer, or conform to fit in. In this conversation, we explore how the way we speak shapes not just how others perceive us but how we see ourselves.

Samara’s insights are grounded in her own journey, from Shakespeare festivals to coaching Hollywood actors to helping leaders and changemakers show up authentically. Her audiobook is as compelling as the conversation you’re about to hear—a true reflection of her mission to help us all own our voices unapologetically.

Samara’s book, Permission to Speak, is available everywhere books are sold. If you love this conversation, grab the audiobook for an even deeper experience.

You’ll also hear:

• How societal norms shape the way we speak—and how to challenge them (2:25)
• The connection between breath, voice, and emotions (23:47)
• Practical exercises for finding and owning your voice (28:37)
• Why physical movement and warm-ups matter for confidence (29:14)

Learn more about Samara Bay: Samara Bay coaches rising business leaders, political hopefuls, and public figures who need to speak in a voice they recognize as their own to truly make waves. She runs workshops and speaks at organizations around the world to support a new, diverse sound of power. In Hollywood, she helps movie stars integrate good acting with good accents, and has coached clients including Gal Gadot, Pierce Brosnan, Penélope Cruz, Ricky Martin, Terry Crews, Rachel McAdams, Ruth Negga, and Anjelica Huston. She has a BA from Princeton University and an MFA from Brown University. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, son, and dog, Moxie.

Resources & Links:

Unbreakable – the Divorce Recovery Retreat, Sedona, AZ in April 2025
Submit your questions here for possible inclusion in future Q&A podcast episodes
Focused Strategy Sessions with Kate 
Phoenix Rising: A Divorce Empowerment Collective

Samara on Instagram
Samara’s Substack
Permission to Speak

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DISCLAIMER:  THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE.  YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY, COACH, OR THERAPIST IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM