Public Speaking: Reclaiming Your Voice Without the Panic
For many people, the thought of public speaking sparks one emotion above all others - fear.
Whether it’s a team meeting, a wedding toast, or standing in front of a classroom, something about being “on show” can feel deeply exposing. Your heart races, your mouth dries, your mind goes blank.
You’re not alone. Fear of public speaking (glossophobia) is one of the most common anxieties people face — and it’s not just about the words you have to say. It’s about being seen. Being judged. And not feeling good enough.
Why Does Public Speaking Feel So Scary?
From a brain perspective, speaking in front of others can feel like a threat to our safety. The limbic system (your emotional brain) interprets attention as danger, especially if you’ve experienced past criticism, embarrassment, or a strong inner critic.
This triggers your stress response:
Cortisol rises
Heart rate increases
Focus narrows
Logical thought shuts down
That’s why you might suddenly forget what you were going to say; not because you’re unprepared, but because your brain has flipped into survival mode.
But Here's the Good News
This response isn’t fixed. Just like we can train our bodies to feel stronger, we can train our minds to feel safer in moments of exposure.
At Trancespire, I work with clients to gently retrain their brain’s response to public speaking; using a combination of neuroscience-informed tools and Solution Focused Hypnotherapy.
We don’t analyse the past. We build confidence by focusing on what’s already working, what’s already improving, and what feeling calm and in control could actually look like for you.
How Solution Focused Hypnotherapy Can Help:
Calms the fight-or-flight response so your body feels safe again
Increases confidence by focusing on your strengths and previous wins
Helps create a more helpful inner dialogue (instead of critical self-talk)
Encourages visualisation and mental rehearsal — training your mind to expect success
Improves sleep and focus, which naturally enhances performance
You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be Powerful
What if public speaking wasn’t about being flawless — but about being present?
What if the goal wasn’t to impress — but to connect?
You don’t need to get every word right. You just need to remember you have something worth saying — and a voice that deserves to be heard.
And That’s Where I Come In
If the idea of public speaking has held you back - whether professionally or personally - know that change is possible.
Your fear is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign your brain is trying to protect you.
Let’s teach it that you’re safe, capable, and more than enough.
Ready to feel calmer and more confident in the spotlight?
📍 Based in Llangorse, near Brecon, Hay-On-Wye, and Crickhowell, Wales — also available online UK-wide.
👉 Book a free consultation
