If you’d rather listen to these insights, see episode 154 of The Powerful Content Podcast

Harnessing the Power of Authentic Speaking: Insights with Cat Matson

Content is such a powerful tool at our fingertips that the way you show up and speak—truly speak—matters more than ever. Whether it’s sharing your message in business, leading a team, or simply feeling more confident in everyday conversations, the ability to speak with authenticity can change everything.

Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with Cat Matson, a speaking coach who helps people find their voice, manage their nerves, and show up powerfully—without sounding like they’re reading from a script. If speaking has ever felt nerve-wracking or you’ve found yourself putting on a ‘presenter persona,’ Cat’s insights will be a game-changer.

Speaking Is About Connection, Not Performance

So many people think that to be a good speaker, you need to be naturally charismatic or extroverted. Cat challenges that idea. She believes that speaking isn’t about ‘performing’—it’s about being understood and making a genuine connection.

When we focus too much on being polished or perfect, we lose what really matters: the ability to engage, inspire, and resonate with our audience. The good news? Authentic speaking is a skill that anyone can develop.

From Nerves to Confidence

Nerves are a part of speaking. That jittery feeling before you hit record, go live, or step onto a stage? Totally normal. It comes from a fear of judgment, of getting it ‘wrong.’ But as Cat explains, the key isn’t to get rid of nerves—it’s to manage them.

Techniques like deep breathing, grounding, and simply slowing down can make a world of difference. Instead of seeing nerves as a sign that you’re not ready, what if you saw them as energy to use in your favour?

Ditch the Script, Embrace the Moment

If you’ve ever clung to a script for dear life, you’re not alone. I’m guilty as charged! But Cat reminds us that scripting every word can actually create a barrier between you and your audience. Instead of reading, try using bullet points or prompts to keep you on track while still allowing for real, natural connection.

Speaking with impact doesn’t mean memorising—it means being present. And that’s where true confidence starts.

Overcoming the ‘I’m Not Good Enough’ Feeling

Imposter syndrome loves to creep in when we put ourselves out there. That little voice saying, Who am I to speak? What if people don’t take me seriously?

Cat’s advice? Recognise that your lived experiences, your perspective, and your way of communicating are already enough. You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room or have decades of experience to speak with confidence. You just have to be real.

Practical Tips for Authentic Speaking

Cat shared some simple yet powerful techniques to help you speak with more ease:

The Post-it Note Trick: Instead of reading from a page, write key points in Sharpie on sticky notes and place them in your view. This keeps you focused while letting you stay engaged with your audience.

Physical Triggers: Use your fingers as memory anchors—assign key points to each one so you have a natural way to remember your message.

Own Your Voice: You don’t need to sound like anyone else. The way you speak is what makes you relatable and powerful.

Reflect on Your Speaking Confidence and Authenticity

To wrap up, here are two questions Cat encourages us to think about:

If you were to speak to an audience of thousands, what’s the one message you’d want to share?

What experiences have shaped you, and how can they help you connect with others through your words?

Speaking isn’t just about getting your message across—it’s about inviting people into your world, creating trust, and sparking real change. And when you show up as you—without the script, without the facade—that’s when your message truly lands.