In this episode of High Notes, host Melissa Thom speaks with Simon Lancaster, one of Britain’s most acclaimed speechwriters.

Simon traces his path from aspiring songwriter to shaping the words of top politicians and business leaders. They explore the art of persuasive communication, the timeless power of rhetoric, and why authenticity and emotion matter on stage.

With stories from his remarkable career, Simon offers practical strategies for crafting unforgettable speeches, from harnessing rhythm and repetition to mastering rhetorical devices that captivate an audience.

Tune in for practical insights on speaking with clarity and how to craft words that leave a lasting impression.

More about Simon:

https://www.bespokespeeches.com/

Speak like a Leader Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGBamfWasNQ

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00:00 Introduction to High Notes Podcast

00:30 Meet Simon Lancaster: Britain's Renowned Speech Writer

01:40 The Journey to Becoming a Political Speech Writer

03:14 The Art of Unforgettable Speeches

05:40 The Language of Leadership

07:05 Rhetorical Devices in Public Speaking

12:23 When Speeches Go Wrong: Lessons from Gerald Ratner

17:19 The Power of Rhetorical Devices: TEDx Talk Insights

21:31 Favourite Rhetorical Devices and Techniques

23:45 The Power of Hypnosis in Overcoming Nerves

26:02 Engaging Your Audience: The Role of Charisma

27:27 Finding Inspiration in Speech Writing

31:07 Building Confidence in Communication

33:29 Admiring Modern-Day Speakers

37:50 The Impact of Iconic Speeches

40:13 The Influence of Music and Funk

41:16 Conclusion and Farewell

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High Notes returns for its third season with Words at Work, a series about the role of voice in business.

BRAVA founder, Melissa Thom talks to leading figures across business, culture, and communication: Simon Lancaster, Margaret Heffernan, Dr. Rockford Sansom, Jane Duffus, Colin Burgess, Tricia Duffy, Lynne Franks, and Janey Lee Grace.

Together, they explore how voice shapes influence, leadership, and true connection at work: how to stay composed under pressure, engage an audience and speak with authority.

Subscribe on your preferred podcast platform, or visit brava.uk.com/podcast for more.

Season 3 Guests

• Simon Lancaster: speechwriter to business and political leaders, on the Language of Leadership and the hidden patterns that make communication persuasive.
• Jane Duffus: writer and historian, on Women, Wit & the Power of Speech and how women’s voices have shaped, and continue to shape public life.
• Colin Burgess: BAFTA’s Executive Director of Operations, on the Resilient Voice, building legacy, and nurturing new creative voices in film, games and television.
• Tricia Duffy: leadership coach, on Creative Confidence and finding your voice in times of change and uncertainty.
• Dr. Rockford Sansom: voice coach to executives worldwide, on Influence & Impact, and how leaders can speak with presence in the boardroom.
• Janey Lee Grace: BBC broadcasting legend and coach, on Executive Presence, clarity, sobriety and having the courage to speak up.
• Lynne Franks: author, entrepreneur, communications strategist and fashion pioneer on Leading with Wisdom, and using voice as a force for visibility, purpose, and change.
• Margaret Heffernan: business thinker, writer and voted one of the "Top 100 Media Executives" by The Hollywood Reporter on Voice, Creativity and Embracing Uncertainty, and why leadership today demands adaptability.
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High Notes — where every performance is a conversation.

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In this episode of High Notes, we’re joined by iconic voice actor Bob Bergen, famous for voicing beloved characters like Porky Pig, Tweety, Marvin the Martian, and No Face from Spirited Away.

Bob discusses his journey from mimicking cartoons as a child to becoming a full-time voice actor. He offers invaluable advice for aspiring performers, emphasising the importance of craft and focus.

Bob also shares his thoughts on the rise of AI in voice acting and the significance of continuous learning and dedication to the craft.

The episode concludes with a surprise guest appearance from our characters' coach, Elaine Clark.

More about Bob:

https://www.bobbergen.com/

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0074036/

Also featuring: https://elaineclarkvo.com/

Subscribe to the BRAVA newsletter for regular updates on news, training opportunities, and insights from the world of voice:

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