High Notes Podcast Season 3 Returns – Exploring the Power of Voice with Melissa Thom
The human voice — our most natural instrument — carries power, emotion, and influence that transcend words. This October, the celebrated podcast High Notes, hosted by voice actor and communication expert Melissa Thom, returns for its third season. Over eight weeks, the show will explore how voice shapes leadership, authenticity, and human connection in modern communication.
Since its debut, High Notes has carved a niche as one of the most insightful podcasts for professionals, creatives, and communicators. The new season continues this tradition, offering a masterclass in vocal intelligence — the subtle craft of using one’s voice to inspire, lead, and connect.
Melissa Thom, a renowned voice actor whose credits include Google, Amazon, Nike, and Rockstar Games, brings her unique experience as both performer and trainer to every episode.
As the founder and CEO of BRAVA, a leading communication training company, Melissa has coached thousands of professionals in the art of using their voice effectively — from boardrooms to broadcast studios.
What to Expect in Season Three
This season of High Notes focuses on “The Power of Voice in Leadership and Influence.” Each of the eight episodes delves into a unique dimension of communication — from managing nerves before a presentation to speaking with authenticity under pressure.
Here’s what listeners can look forward to:
Simon Lancaster – The Language of Leadership Explore how leaders use storytelling, tone, and rhythm to inspire teams and shape public opinion. Lancaster, one of the UK’s most sought-after speechwriters, reveals techniques behind powerful political and corporate communication.
Jane Duffus – Women, Wit & the Power of Speech A vibrant conversation on gender, humour, and how women can leverage their voices for confidence and authority in male-dominated industries.
Margaret Heffernan – Voice, Creativity and Embracing Uncertainty The acclaimed entrepreneur and author discusses how voice fuels creativity and connection in uncertain times.
Lynne Franks – Leading with Wisdom PR legend Lynne Franks, known for inspiring the character Edina Monsoon in Absolutely Fabulous, shares her thoughts on conscious leadership and authentic influence.
BAFTA’s Colin Burgess, broadcaster Janey Lee Grace, and voice coach Dr. Rockford Sansom These episodes explore vocal resilience, emotional impact, and the science behind how tone affects perception.
The Voice as a Tool of Influence
At its heart, High Notes is more than a podcast — it’s an exploration of how voice creates connection and authority in a digital-first world.
As workplaces evolve with AI-driven communication tools and virtual meetings, understanding the emotional and psychological impact of the human voice is more vital than ever. The series uncovers how leaders can use tone, pacing, and presence to build trust and inspire collaboration — even through a screen.
“This season of High Notes is focused on how professionals can use their voice for impactful communication in the workplace and beyond,” says host Melissa Thom. “Our guests bring a wealth of experience from different sectors and creative disciplines — we hope listeners will both be entertained and come away with actionable tips to supercharge their communication confidence.”
Why Voice Matters More Than Ever in 2025
In an age dominated by remote work, podcasts, and AI-generated voices, human authenticity has become a superpower. A well-trained, expressive voice can:
Build credibility and authority in professional settings
Enhance empathy and emotional connection
Reduce misunderstandings in high-stakes conversations
Strengthen leadership presence in hybrid or virtual teams
Industry experts predict that voice communication skills will be among the most in-demand soft skills of the next decade — particularly as automation increases the value of human nuance.
The Host: Melissa Thom’s Journey from Studio to Stage
Melissa Thom is not just a podcast host — she’s a pioneer in vocal training. As a voice actor, she has lent her voice to global campaigns for some of the world’s biggest brands. As a communication coach, she has transformed the way executives, presenters, and creators think about speaking.
Through her company BRAVA, Melissa has built a global reputation for teaching professionals how to speak with confidence, clarity, and authenticity. Her philosophy is simple: “Everyone has a powerful voice — they just need to learn how to use it.”
The Guests: A Chorus of Influential Voices
Each guest on High Notes brings a unique perspective to the conversation:
Guest
Expertise
Episode Focus
Simon Lancaster
Speechwriter & Author
The Language of Leadership
Jane Duffus
Author & Historian
Women, Wit & the Power of Speech
Margaret Heffernan
Entrepreneur & Thinker
Voice, Creativity & Embracing Uncertainty
Lynne Franks
PR Pioneer
Leading with Wisdom
Colin Burgess (BAFTA)
Producer
Creative Influence & Voice Performance
Janey Lee Grace
Broadcaster
Speaking with Authenticity
Dr. Rockford Sansom
Voice Coach
Science of Vocal Confidence
Each conversation blends personal storytelling with practical techniques, helping listeners refine their voice — whether they’re delivering a keynote, leading a team, or launching a podcast.
How to Tune In
Season three of High Notes launches 27 October 2025. Listeners can stream it via:
Episodes drop weekly for eight consecutive weeks, each running approximately 40–50 minutes.
What Makes “High Notes” Different
Unlike most communication podcasts that focus on public speaking techniques, High Notes approaches the voice as both an art and a science. By blending neuroscience, storytelling, and creative insight, it reveals how subtle vocal shifts can transform relationships, careers, and communities.
It’s a listening experience designed not just for professionals, but for anyone who wants to communicate more authentically — from teachers and leaders to artists and entrepreneurs.
Final Word: Elevating Every Conversation
As High Notes enters its third season, it reinforces a powerful truth: Voice is identity. Voice is influence. Voice is connection.
Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a creative professional, or someone simply looking to speak with greater confidence, this podcast promises to leave you inspired — and empowered to find your own “high note.”
