In this episode, host Michael Mitchel interviews Laura Hamirani, a speech language pathologist specializing in therapy for voice disorders. They discuss vocal executive presence and preventing vocal strain in the new Zoom culture. Laura emphasizes the importance of vocal warm-ups, breathing techniques, and vocal hygiene for maintaining a healthy voice. They also explore the impact of remote work and virtual platforms on voice issues. Laura shares advice on improving executive presence vocally and how it can prevent vocal cord strain.

Takeaways
• Speaking in a comfortable pitch and controlling cadence can enhance executive presence.
• Remote work and virtual platforms can contribute to vocal strain and voice issues.
• Be mindful of vocal hygiene, such as staying hydrated and avoiding throat clearing.
• Practice vocal warm-ups and breathing techniques to maintain a healthy voice.

An accomplished Soprano singer, Laura earned a Masters in Speech Language and
Learning focusing on Pathology from Northwestern University. For over five years,
Laura has been a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in voice disorders.

In this episode of CXO Conversations, Michael Mitchel interviews Anna Conrad,
CEO of Impact Leadership Solutions, about executive coaching and the changing
landscape of executive presence. They discuss the importance of reflection, self-
awareness, and personal growth in executive coaching. They also explore how
executive presence has evolved over the years, emphasizing the need for
authenticity, connection, and integrity. Anna shares tips for projecting executive
presence in virtual meetings, including being mindful of backgrounds, showing up
fully, and being present. They also touch on the importance of concise
communication and the power of silence in conversations.

Key Takeaways:
• Executive coaching focuses on reflection, self-awareness, and personal
growth.
• Executive presence has evolved to emphasize authenticity, connection, and
integrity.
• Anna share tips for projecting executive presence in virtual meetings
include being mindful of backgrounds, showing up fully, and being present.

Anna Conrad JD has been an executive coach for over 17 years. She is the Founder
and moderator of Executive Voices, a panel series with leading senior leadership
from Colorado’s premier companies. Anna also teaches at University of Denver, a
campus she knows well – she graduated from their DU law school.

In this episode of CXO Conversations, Michael interviews Mike Murphy, Managing Partner of Sunstone Management Advisors, about the skills he gained during his career growth in the insurance industry and the advice he received throughout his career.

They discuss the importance of building a diverse skill set and over earning your pay. They also
emphasize the value of having an internal Sherpa who actively promotes and advocates for your career growth.

he key takeaways from the conversation are:
1) Build your skill set and portfolio to enhance your career prospects,
2) Find an internal Sherpa who can guide and support your professional development.

After over 20 years within the insurance industry, Mike founded Sunstone Management Advisors. Offering consulting services leveraging executive skillset and expertise in the healthcare and insurance industries to help clients improve operations and accelerate growth. Services included Strategic Planning, Operations, Performance Metrics, Product Development, Distribution, and Sales Effectiveness.

Mike has served as COO for American Medical and Life Insurance Company, EVP with National
General Insurance and CEO of HRGi Holdings.