Finding Your Voice: Overcoming Speaking Anxiety and Leading with Authentic Presence with Jimmy Cannon

  🎙️ What if your greatest leadership asset wasn't what you say, but how you say it? In this insightful episode of The Kind Leader Podcast, host Gino Degregori speaks with Jimmy Cannon, public speaking coach, behavioral therapist, and former professional jazz musician, about how to find—and own—your authentic voice as a leader. Drawing from his journey from saxophonist and singer to therapist and coach, Jimmy reveals how the Canon Method helps leaders overcome anxiety and speak with purpose, presence, and confidence. Through jazz-inspired insights and science-backed practices, Jimmy shares how mindful breathing, improvisation, and self-acceptance can unlock powerful communication. Whether you're stepping into a new leadership role or want to inspire with more authenticity, this episode will shift how you think about speaking. 🔑 Key takeaways include: The three pillars of leadership communication: voice, presence, and confidence How to manage speaking anxiety using mindful breathing tied to your core values Why recording yourself regularly is a powerful tool to reduce fear The jazz connection: using improvisational techniques to create real connection Why authenticity beats perfection in leadership communication 🎧 Listen now and learn how to speak not just to be heard, but to lead with impact. 🔗 Resources & Links: Jimmy Cannon's website: jimmycannon.com Recommended book: How to Be Heard by Julian Treasure (https://www.amazon.com/-/es/How-Be-Heard-Powerful-Listening/dp/1538535033) Pre-speaking ritual: Lip trills for 30–60 seconds to connect your head voice and chest voice Vocal presence tip: "Fill the space that you're in and not further"