Breaking the Barriers: How Women Can Make Their Voices Heard

Season 1, Episode 179,   May 28, 08:30 PM

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Many women in leadership roles find themselves unheard in male-dominated spaces, often struggling with an internal glass ceiling as much as an external one. In this episode of the We Are Women Podcast, I sit down with communication expert Elizabeth Bachman to discuss the art of strategic empathy, effective speaking, and how to get women’s voices heard in places of power. Elizabeth shares valuable insights on overcoming workplace barriers, avoiding the ‘expert trap,’ and presenting information in a way that truly resonates. If you’re ready to enhance your influence and impact, this episode is for you.

Understanding the Internal Glass Ceiling

Women often face both an external glass ceiling—societal and corporate barriers—and an internal one, built from years of social conditioning. Many struggle with self-doubt and a fear of being seen as ‘too aggressive’ or ‘too soft.’ Elizabeth Bachman explains that breaking through this internal limitation is just as crucial as overcoming external challenges. Learning to present yourself as a confident, authoritative leader is a key step toward being heard.

Why Quitting is Expensive

Many talented women leave leadership roles because they feel unheard or undervalued. However, quitting can be an expensive choice—not just financially, but in lost opportunities for growth, leadership, and influence. Elizabeth shares why persistence and strategic communication are essential for long-term success.

Speak So They Understand

Communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how your message is received. Men and women often speak in different ‘languages’ in professional settings, which can lead to misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Elizabeth discusses how women can adapt their communication style without losing authenticity, ensuring that their messages are not just heard but respected and acted upon.

The Power of Strategic Empathy

One of Elizabeth’s signature techniques, strategic empathy, is about understanding your audience’s perspective and using that insight to communicate more effectively. Rather than trying to fit into a traditional leadership mold, women can leverage their natural empathy to build stronger connections and influence outcomes. This approach is particularly useful in male-dominated industries, where women often struggle to get their ideas taken seriously.

The Difference Between Single-Focus and Multi-Flow Thinkers

Traditionally, business leadership has been shaped by single-focus thinkers—those who follow a linear path. However, many women excel at multi-flow thinking, balancing multiple perspectives and priorities at once. Elizabeth explains how women can use this ability as a strength rather than seeing it as a disadvantage in a structured corporate world.

Just Ask: The Importance of Speaking Up

Women often hesitate to ask for what they need—whether it’s a raise, a leadership opportunity, or even the chance to speak in meetings. Elizabeth emphasizes the power of simply asking and provides actionable strategies for making requests in a way that gets results.

Avoiding Communication Breakdowns

One of the biggest challenges in leadership is dealing with miscommunication. Women in leadership must navigate difficult conversations and prevent breakdowns before they happen. Elizabeth shares tips for ensuring clarity, reinforcing authority, and handling conflicts with confidence.

Making Women’s Voices Heard in Places of Power

Elizabeth’s mission is to help women be heard in spaces traditionally dominated by men. She offers real-world examples of women who have successfully navigated leadership roles and shares strategies that can help others do the same.


Key Takeaways:

✅ Discover why your voice might not be heard and how to change that
 ✅ Avoid falling into the ‘Expert Trap’ and ensure your message resonates
 ✅ Learn how to communicate in a way that gets results and builds authority


Connect with Elizabeth Bachman:

📧 Email: elizabeth@elizabethbachman.com
 🌐 Website: Strategic Speaking for Results
🔗 LinkedIn: Elizabeth Bachman
📺 YouTube: Elizabeth Bachman’s Channel
📞 Contact: +1-415-967-1014

Tune in to this empowering conversation and learn how to ensure your voice is heard in leadership!

Host Contact Information:

📧 Email: janeen@janeenvosper.com
📞 Phone: +61 413 940 117
🌐 Website: Janeen Vosper
🔗 LinkedIn: Janeen Vosper
📘 Facebook: Speech Perfect
📸 Instagram: @speechperfect
🐦 Twitter: @VosperJaneen

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