This week, we’re starting a four-episode miniseries on finding your voice and increasing your influence as a leader.

My guest to kick it off is Dr. Laura Sicola, a leadership communication and influence expert, and a renowned speaker, former bilingual K-12 teacher and university professor who holds a PhD in educational linguistics from the University of Pennsylvania.

With over 20 years of experience, she has coached TED speakers, delivered her own TED talk with over 7 million views, and appeared in major media outlets. Her clients include notable organizations like Comcast, GSK, and IBM.

Her book is Speaking to Influence: Mastering Your Leadership Voice.

Laura and I discuss:

• Whether you are seen as a leader (not whether you believe you are a leader)
• Communication — what does it help you do as a leader?
• Image and reputation goals: mapping them out, making them authentic, understanding their relevance to your impact
• How to choose and use the right words
• The Three Cs of Vocal Executive Presence: Command, Connect, and Close
• How can I build my brand as a "go-to expert" and speaker?

Learn more at www.laurasicola.com and www.speakingtoinfluence.com

About the host

Ross Romano is a co-founder of the Be Podcast Network and CEO of September Strategies, a coaching and consulting firm that helps organizations and high-performing leaders in the K-12 education industry communicate their vision and make strategic decisions that lead to long-term success. Connect on Bluesky or LinkedIn

I also host Sideline Sessions, a podcast for coaches and parents of student-athletes. The show features conversations with coaches and performance experts in the NFL, NBA, NCAA, Olympics, and more. Listen here: https://bit.ly/3Rp0QGt