Why do some speakers struggle to pursue speaking gigs even when they know they have something valuable to share? Grammy-nominated opera singer and voice coach Monique McDonald believes the missing piece may be learning how to feel comfortable being seen and heard. Monique joins Kelly to explore the fears, limiting beliefs and self-doubt that can hold speakers back from applying for opportunities, stepping onto bigger stages and fully expressing themselves.
Drawing on her journey from international opera stages to coaching speakers and leaders, Monique shares how to develop a more magnetic voice, strengthen stage presence and prepare mentally and emotionally before speaking. Kelly opens up about her own resistance to applying for gigs, while Monique introduces her ABCs of Magnetism and explains why memorizing a speech isn't the same as practicing it. This conversation invites speakers to move beyond simply getting on stage and discover what it takes to show up with confidence, authenticity and a voice that truly connects.
The Gig-Getting Insights Inside:
- The unexpected turning point that led an internationally performing opera singer to help other people find their voice.
- The hidden resistance that can appear just as a promising speaking opportunity comes within reach.
- A revealing look at how past criticism and imposter syndrome can influence a speaker's willingness to be visible.
- Three elements of Monique's pre-stage preparation that can change how a speaker approaches an audience.
- The connection between vocal expression, personal experiences and authentic stage presence.
- A distinction between memorizing a presentation and practicing to become a stronger speaker.
Get Monique’s Magnetic Voice Mentor Kit at https://magnetic-voice-mentor.kit.com/
About the Guest:
Monique McDonald is a Grammy-nominated, award-winning opera singer, vocal specialist, and charisma coach known as “The Magnetic Voice.” Having performed on prestigious stages around the world, including Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, Monique now helps speakers, entrepreneurs, and leaders unlock the power of their authentic voice. Through vocal coaching, stage presence training, and her signature programs, she empowers clients to overcome limiting beliefs, communicate with confidence, and turn their voice into a powerful tool for connection, influence, and impact.
https://www.themagneticvoice.com/
Resources
Mistakes Speakers Make and How to Fix Them is a practical mini-course designed to help speakers of all levels identify and overcome the common pitfalls that can hinder their success. Drawing on insights from Kelly Woodhouse’s "Landing the Gig" podcast interviews and her extensive experience as a TEDx and keynote speaker, and bestselling author, this course provides actionable strategies to enhance your speaking impact, open doors to new opportunities, and boost your revenue.
This mini-course is Free for 14-days and after that it will be $199. If you consume it in the 14-day period, then you can keep it forever. https://app.hiro.fm/channel/mini
About Kelly:
Kelly Woodhouse is an award-winning international speaker, bestselling author, publisher, and coach. A burn survivor since the age of 2 on 75% of her body, she transformed a story of near death into one of resilience and triumph. From being called the “scar-faced girl” to gracing the TEDx stage twice, Kelly’s journey has inspired millions worldwide. Her documentary Still Beautiful aired on TV, and her Goalcast video surpassed 10 million views.
Global TV named her one of the Most Inspirational People of 2020. You must ask yourself HOW? How did the scar-faced girl find the strength in her scars? Goalcast Video on fb which has received over 10 million views: https://www.facebook.com/dailygoalcast/videos/566114747146421/
https://www.KellyWoodhouse.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyfalardeau/
https://www.facebook.com/kelly.woodhouse.2025/
https://www.youtube.com/@KellyWoodhouse2
TEDx talk - U.G.L.Y. is Still Beautiful: https://youtu.be/KMBZvjetRqQ?si=V61xjiCxI5tNBL0F
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Music Credit
Our sincere thanks to Raquel Soto for generously allowing us to use "Raise Your Voice (Ink And Impact Awards Theme Song)" as part of this podcast. We are grateful for the opportunity to feature this inspiring music and appreciate her support of the show.