You Don’t Have To Be Loud To Be Heard

There’s something powerful about sitting on a panel surrounded by brilliant women, each bringing her own light to the room. I recently had that experience, a chance to step into a space that challenged me to stretch beyond my comfort zone as an introvert and share insights about podcasting and storytelling.

I accepted the invitation because I wanted to strengthen my voice and talk about the topic that I am so passionate about.

During the panel, I spoke with intention and calm confidence, offering tangible advice for those ready to start their podcast journey. When it came time for the next panelist to speak, she delivered her points with bold energy, the kind that grabs the room instantly. She was expressive, animated, and undeniably powerful.

But as she spoke, I couldn’t help but notice that her responses often countered or overshadowed mine, almost as if to prove that louder meant stronger.

For a moment, I questioned myself.
Was my delivery enough?
Did the audience feel my words the way I meant them?

Then I remembered something I've been reminding myself: you don’t have to be loud to be heard.

We each have a unique rhythm to how we show up in the world. Some of us are quiet flames, steady, warm, and consistent. Others are fireworks, vibrant, bold, and electric. Both bring light. Both are needed.

Holding space means recognizing that everyone’s voice matters - the loud, the soft, and the in-between. It means allowing others to shine without feeling the need to dim their light or amplify yours in comparison.

This is especially true in podcasting. In a world filled with booming voices and big personalities, it’s easy to believe your tone, energy, or style needs to match the next person’s. But podcasting isn’t about volume. It’s about value. It’s about connection, truth, and impact.

Your listeners don’t need perfection. They need presence. They’re drawn to authenticity and the sound of someone being fully themselves.

So whether you speak in gentle tones or with contagious excitement, your voice has a place. You deserve to be heard. And as we continue to build platforms, panels, and podcasts that amplify women’s voices, let’s also practice holding space for one another, giving grace for how each of us shows up, how we share, and how we shine.

Because when we honor all voices, we create a harmony that no single voice could carry alone.

What I would tell my younger self:
You don’t have to raise your voice to make an impact. Your calm, steady presence carries power, and your words hold weight. Trust your rhythm, and never mistake quiet for smallness. Your softness is your strength, and your light shines just as bright.