Foster Your Voice Podcast with Kristi Foster

Welcome to Foster Your Voice, the go-to podcast for trial attorneys ready to unlock the power of their voice. Hosted by Kristi Foster, a vocal and nonverbal communication coach, this show delivers concise, actionable tips to help you build vocal confidence, captivate jurors, and communicate with purpose—and on purpose. Whether you’re preparing for your next trial or seeking to sharpen your courtroom presence, each episode will equip you with strategies to harness your full-spectrum voice and elevate your impact in the courtroom. Ready to speak, lead, and win? Tune in and let’s get started!

FYV #50 - Motivation Isn’t a Feeling: How Jurors Decide and How You Stay Grounded 12/22/2025

FYV #50 - Motivation Isn’t a Feeling: How Jurors Decide and How You Stay Grounded In this episode, we explore motivation from two critical angles: what motivates jurors to stay engaged and move toward a verdict — and what actually motivates you to show up grounded, prepared, and consistent in high-stakes moments. Jurors don’t get motivated in isolation; they respond to your energy, clarity, and intentionality. And before jurors ever lean in, you have to generate momentum for yourself. This episode bridges courtroom communication with personal practice, showing how relevance fuels juror engagement and how motivation is built through small, repeatable actions — not perfect conditions. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why jurors arrive already managing uncertainty, discomfort, and self-doubt How unfamiliar language and legal concepts increase cognitive distance for jurors Why facts alone don’t motivate — and what makes them land How to anchor your case in jurors’ shared values and lived experience What “relevance before information” really means in trial storytelling Why motivation isn’t a feeling — it’s a practice How internal “soundtracks” shape consistency, confidence, and momentum Four practical soundtracks that support action, growth, and follow-through Key Takeaway: Motivation doesn’t start with information — it starts with relevance. Jurors engage when they can see themselves in the story, and you stay motivated when you stop waiting to feel ready and start practicing forward motion. Action creates clarity, not the other way around. Favorite moment: The reframe that “you don’t feel motivated — you practice motivation,” especially when paired with the reminder that consistency is built through small, imperfect reps. Links & Resources: Jon Acuff’s Soundtracks Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode resonated, share it with your trial team and start talking about how you’ll anchor relevance for jurors and sustain motivation for yourselves. And don’t miss the upcoming bonus episode wrapping up Season 1 and looking ahead to 2026. Until next time — keep fostering your voice. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/39476445

FYV #49 - RBF, Thinking Face, and the Juror’s Subconscious 12/15/2025

FYV #49 - RBF, Thinking Face, and the Juror’s Subconscious In this episode, we zoom out from pure vocal technique and dig into one of the most overlooked communication tools in the courtroom: your face. With 43 expressive muscles firing even when you’re not speaking, your facial expressions reveal more than you think — especially to jurors who instinctively read micro-cues for safety, sincerity, and credibility. You’ll learn why your “resting face,” thinking patterns, stress habits, and unintended microexpressions can either support your message or sabotage it — and how to intentionally build a neutral, open, trustworthy facial baseline that aligns with your storytelling and presence. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why jurors trust your face over your words — every single time How genetics, aging, and habitual expressions shape your resting facial posture What RBF really is (and why it matters in voir dire and trial) How stress, tension, and “thinking face” create misleading microexpressions Why your neutral expression is part of your credibility package Simple daily exercises to train a more open, receptive, and aligned resting expression How an “inner smile” softens your presence without faking anything Ways your face, voice, and message can work together instead of contradicting one another Key Takeaway Your face communicates before your voice ever does — and jurors believe the face. When your facial expression aligns with your intention and your story, jurors stay open, receptive, and connected. When it doesn’t, they disengage before you’ve even begun. Awareness + a little intentional practice = enormous return on credibility. Favorite Moment That moment where you describe walking through the grocery store practicing your neutral face and inner smile — a perfect reminder that high-stakes communication is built in low-stakes environments. Links & Resources Revisit Episode #4 How One Word Can Change Your Year: Connect with Kristi on Instagram: @fostervoicestudio Email questions or coaching inquiries: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If you’re ready to develop vocal presence, refine your nonverbal clarity, and learn how jurors actually perceive you, join the newsletter or reach out for 1:1 coaching. Your voice and your face are telling a story — make sure it’s the one you want jurors to hear. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/39291280

FYV #48 - The Two Personalities That Shut Down Your Jury 12/08/2025

FYV #48 - The Two Personalities That Shut Down Your Jury In this episode, Kristi unveils the two personality types that quietly shut jurors down long before your story ever gets a chance to land: the know-it-all and the chronic apologizer. Both create emotional friction that drains jurors' attention and engagement — just in opposite ways. Kristi breaks down how each style shows up vocally and nonverbally in the courtroom, why jurors feel instantly exhausted by them, and how even small shifts in vocal presence, humility, and breath-supported delivery can completely change how jurors perceive you. This is a mindset-and-voice tune-up every trial attorney needs. In this episode, you'll learn: Why know-it-all energy is instantly detectable — and instantly off-putting — to jurors How insecurity-based communication shows up in your tone, breath, volume, and physical presence The emotional toll both extremes place on jurors (and why that drains their ability to retain facts) What “emotional currency” is and how your delivery either preserves or depletes it Simple vocal strategies to move toward confident, humble authority How breath, pitch, projection, and melody help you communicate conviction without arrogance The small (but mighty) 10% vocal shift that can change juror perception instantly Key Takeaway: Jurors connect to you before they connect to your case. Know-it-all energy shuts them down and apologizer energy makes them caretake you — both drain their emotional bandwidth. Humility + conviction, supported by intentional breath and steady vocal presence, is the winning middle ground. Favorite moment: Kristi’s description of how the apologizer forces jurors into emotional caretaking mode — and how that completely hijacks their ability to follow the story — is a mic-drop reminder of how subconsciously jurors respond to vocal delivery. Links & Resources: Email Kristi directly: Connect on Instagram: @fostervoicestudio Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: And share this episode with a colleague who might be showing up as either of these extremes (with love, of course). Until next time…keep fostering your voice. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/39268190

FYV #47 - Cognitive Load in the Courtroom: How to Give Jurors a Fighting Chance 12/01/2025

FYV #47 - Cognitive Load in the Courtroom: How to Give Jurors a Fighting Chance Jurors don’t get real breaks. Not mentally, not emotionally, and certainly not socially. In this episode, we explore how cognitive fatigue shows up inside the courtroom and why even small, intentional pauses in your delivery can dramatically improve juror engagement and listening stamina. You’ll learn how micro-pauses, grounded transitions, and light moments of levity create essential “brain rest” for jurors—without derailing your momentum or weakening your command of the room. This episode reframes pauses from something to fear into one of your most strategic storytelling tools. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why jurors hit cognitive overload faster than you think How micro-pauses reduce mental fatigue and increase retention What unpolished moments (tech adjustments, flipcharts, transitions) actually do for juror focus How to avoid turning those moments into emotional labor for the jury A real example from Perkins v. Wabash National Corp. showing how a simple instruction recalibrated the room The difference between light, authentic levity and “trying to be funny” How pauses act as learning tools—not performance weaknesses Key Takeaway Jurors need mental breaks far more often than you realize—and your delivery can either drain their energy or strategically replenish it. Silence, breath, small transitions, and grounded moments give jurors the reset they need to stay with you, understand you, and remember what you said. Favorite Moment When the attorney in Perkins v. Wabash National Corp. asked jurors to take out their notepads and write down acronyms, giving them ten seconds of internal focus—and how even watching it later created a noticeable sense of ease and recalibration. Links to Share in Show Notes: Kyle Cox on autheticity vs performance — FYV #25 - What Jurors Really Need from You: Time — **FREE CHEAT SHEET** Top 20 Legal Terms to Avoid (and what to say instead) Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: Follow the Foster Your Voice Podcast with Kristi Foster for weekly vocal and nonverbal coaching that helps you communicate with purpose—and on purpose—in every phase of trial. Ready to strengthen your voice, your presence, and your impact? Keep listening, share with your trial team, and keep fostering your voice. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/39206620

FYV #46 - The Power of a Simple Nod 11/24/2025

FYV #46 - The Power of a Simple Nod This episode begins with a lighthearted story about outdoor walks and ends with a powerful lesson on nonverbal communication. Kristi explores how a small, intentional gesture—like a nod—can change the emotional tone of an interaction and deepen connection. Whether you’re walking past a stranger or speaking to a jury, your breath, presence, and micro-movements tell a story. In this episode, you’ll learn how to use breath, facial expression and tone to support your full nonverbal communication strategy so your interactions with jurors feel calm, credible, and human. In this episode, you'll learn: How breath anchors your nonverbal cues and helps you stay grounded as you communicate Why a single nod, paired with steady breathing, creates subconscious rapport The neuroscience behind mirroring and how jurors (or any audience) naturally respond to your presence The difference between authentic and performative nodding A quick self-check exercise to sync your breath with your gestures Key Takeaway: Connection doesn’t require grand gestures. With a steady breath and a simple nod, you can make your listener feel seen, respected, and safe—whether you’re in conversation, on a walk, or in front of a jury. Favorite moment: “When paired with calm eye contact and a steady breath, your nod helps your listener feel you’re with them—not above them. That’s the kind of interaction that builds trust.” Links & Resources: Dan Harris' on-screen panic attack: Dan Harris' TEDTalk excerpt: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode helped you, share it with a colleague who’s ready to stop performing and start connecting. And don’t forget to subscribe to Foster Your Voice Podcast — new episodes every week to help you communicate with purpose, on purpose. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38778520

FYV #45 - Your Voice Is Not Who You Are — It Reveals Who You Are 11/17/2025

FYV #45 - Your Voice Is Not Who You Are — It Reveals Who You Are Most trial attorneys think authenticity means “just be yourself.” But in this episode, Kristi reframes what authenticity really is — and why your voice isn’t something to fix, but something to honor and expand. Through stories from her vocal snapshot sessions, Kristi explores the deep connection between self-perception, vocal growth, and leadership presence. You’ll learn why discomfort is a sign of expansion, how your brain resists change to protect you, and what it means to align your voice with who you truly are — not who you think you’re supposed to sound like. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why your voice is literally one of a kind — down to the cellular level. How your relationship with your voice shapes your courtroom authority. The real reason attorneys say, “I don’t like my voice,” and how to change that. Why your brain tells you you’re “faking it” when you start to grow. The mindset shift that redefines authenticity as alignment, not comfort. How exploring your full vocal range helps reveal — not distort — who you are. Key Takeaway: Your voice doesn’t make you authentic. It reveals the authenticity that’s already there. Favorite Moment: "Jurors, clients, even your family — they don’t want perfect voices. They want real ones. Real voices make people lean in. Real voices invite connection. Real voices lead." Links & Resources: Listening Experiment TO BOOK A VOCAL SNAPSHOT SESSION Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode helped you rethink what it means to “sound authentic,” share it with a colleague who’s ready to stop performing and start connecting. And don’t forget to subscribe to Foster Your Voice Podcast — new episodes every week to help you communicate with purpose, on purpose. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38777905

FYV #44 - Breathe the Story — How Your Breath Shapes Emotion and Connection 11/10/2025

FYV #44 - Breathe the Story — How Your Breath Shapes Emotion and Connection Your breath doesn’t just keep you alive — it brings your stories to life. In this episode, Kristi explores how intentional breathing shapes the emotional rhythm, tone, and impact of your storytelling. From recreating a car crash scene to guiding jurors through reflection and resolution, your breath is what makes a story felt, not just heard. Learn how to move between urgency and stillness, intensity and calm, using breath as your invisible thread of connection. In this episode, you’ll learn: How your breathing patterns shape emotion, pacing, and vocal tone. Ways to use breath to mirror the energy of a scene — from chaos to calm. Why storytelling that “breathes” feels more authentic, cinematic, and memorable. How quick, shallow breaths build urgency and movement. How long, weighted exhales create gravity, empathy, and connection. Why mastering your baseline breath control allows you to flex between emotional extremes without losing composure. Key Takeaway: Your breath is the heartbeat of your storytelling. It’s what makes jurors feel what your client felt — in real time. Favorite Moment: “Quick, shallow breaths invite panic and urgency. Slow, weighted breaths invite gravity and compassion. Both are necessary — you just have to know when to use which.” Links & Resources: The Curse of Knowledge Study Revisit Ep. 36 - How Breathing Shapes Jury Decision-Making Listen to Ep. 41 - It's Not What You Say, It's How You Say It Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode helped you rethink how your breath shapes your storytelling, share it with a colleague who wants to make their openings and closings more compelling and emotionally alive. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38775875

FYV #43 - Rhythm That Sticks: How to Make Your Words Memorable 11/03/2025

FYV #43 - Rhythm That Sticks: How to Make Your Words Memorable Most trial attorneys fall into one of two traps when they speak: they either get stuck in repetitive vocal patterns that lull jurors to sleep… or they avoid rhythm altogether and lose clarity. In this episode, Kristi unpacks the neuroscience and strategy behind rhythm as a communication tool — how to use repetition, contrast, and deliberate pattern to make your message stick in jurors’ minds long after closing arguments. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why predictable vocal patterns sabotage juror attention. The difference between distracting repetition and intentional rhythm. How Parallel Structure and Juxtaposition give your argument clarity and musicality. The power of the Rule of Three to build momentum and land your point. How to Ring the Bell with a repeatable phrase jurors carry into deliberations. Why rhythm activates both emotion and logic for deeper juror connection. Key Takeaway: A pattern grabs attention. A break in the pattern keeps it. Rhythm is the architecture of a message that sticks. Favorite Moment: “Our brains are pattern-seeking. When they can predict where you’re going next, they relax. That’s why you have to avoid prolonged patterns — not to keep jurors guessing, but to keep them engaged.” Links & Resources: 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: Want more? 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If you loved this episode, leave a quick review or send it to a colleague who wants to sharpen their courtroom rhythm. For more resources to help you use your voice — and your rhythm — with clarity and confidence, subscribe to Foster Your Voice Podcast with Kristi Foster. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38774325

FYV #42 - Talking With Your Hands: How Gestures Can Win or Lose Jurors 10/27/2025

FYV #42 - Talking With Your Hands: How Gestures Can Win or Lose Jurors Your hands are speaking in court—whether you mean for them to or not. In this episode, Kristi unpacks why gestures matter as much as words, how jurors process them as part of your message, and how you can use them strategically to reinforce rather than distract. Learn how to balance movement so you look authoritative instead of chaotic or rigid, and discover how pairing tone with gesture creates courtroom communication that sticks. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why psychologists call gestures “co-speech gestures” and how the brain fuses words + movement into one message. The difference between quick, sharp gestures and slower, deliberate ones—and when to use each. How mismatched or random gestures overload jurors’ working memory and cause distraction. Why purposeful gestures reinforce clarity and credibility while nervous energy undermines both. How to pair gesture with tone for maximum juror engagement. Key Takeaway: Gestures aren’t decoration. They’re part of your message. When used strategically, they amplify clarity and trust. When left unchecked, they create confusion and distraction. Favorite Moment: “This is not a question of style. It’s a question of cognitive load. Jurors only have so much working memory to process what you say. If you burn it up with mismatched or distracting gestures, there’s less capacity left for your actual case.” Links & Resources: Interview with Daniel Pollack-Pelzner: Book "Lin Manuel Miranda: The Education of an Artist": Top 20 Legal Terms to Avoid: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode resonated, leave a quick review or share it with a colleague. For more tools to use your voice—and your body language—with clarity, authority, and impact, stay connected by subscribing to the podcast. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38448880

FYV #41 - It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Say It 10/20/2025

FYV #41 - It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Say It Of all the five vocal building blocks—pitch, pace, melody, volume, and tone—tone is the one most often overlooked. Yet it’s also the one that communicates the most: your intent, your sincerity, and the emotional meaning behind your words. In this episode, Kristi unpacks why tone matters so much in the courtroom, how it shapes jurors’ perceptions faster than words, and how you can start using it intentionally to build trust, credibility, and connection. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why ignoring tone leads to miscommunication and lost juror connection. How the brain processes tone before content, shaping instant impressions. The difference between harsh, warm, sharp, or flat tones—and how jurors perceive them. Why emotional misalignment (fatigue, frustration, or passion tipping into shrillness) undermines your message. Practical strategies to check, adjust, and align your tone with your intent. How recording yourself, pairing tone with body language, and practicing emotional alignment can transform your courtroom delivery. Key Takeaway: Tone isn’t decoration. It’s not optional. It’s one of the most powerful building blocks of your voice because it carries emotion and intent—the very things jurors remember most. Favorite Moment: “Tone is about invitation. Your voice should invite jurors to trust you, not encourage them to resist you.” Links & Resources: Duke University Professor Aaron Dinin: Top 20 Legal Terms to Avoid: Emotional Profiles Guide: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode resonated, leave a quick review or share it with a colleague. And for more tools on using your voice with clarity, connection, and impact, subscribe so you never miss an episode. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38448710

FYV #40 - Manage Nerves Instantly: How the Navy Seals Might Help You In Trial 10/13/2025

FYV #40 - Manage Nerves Instantly: How the Navy Seals Might Help You In Trial Breath is more than survival—it’s leadership. In this episode, Kristi pulls back the curtain on how trial attorneys can use breath not just for vocal power, but for nervous system regulation and courtroom leadership. From gospel singing roots to practical techniques like box and triangle breathing, you’ll learn how intentional breath control can steady your system, shape juror perception, and give you the stamina to lead with authority in high-stakes moments. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why courtroom breath needs to be more like a singer’s breath. How your autonomic nervous system responds instantly to how you breathe. The difference between fight-or-flight and rest-and-digest states—and how breath shifts you between them. Why box breathing and triangle breathing are powerful tools for managing nerves. How your breathing patterns unconsciously influence jurors’ emotional state. Practical ways to integrate intentional breathwork into trial prep and live courtroom delivery. Key Takeaway: Breath isn’t just automatic—it’s strategic. The way you breathe sustains your voice, regulates your nervous system, and shapes the energy in the courtroom. Favorite Moment: “Breath isn’t just SELF-regulation. It’s leadership. Jurors unconsciously borrow the rhythm of your breath. When you’re grounded and breathing low and slow, you model calm—and they follow you there.” Links & Resources: TED Talk Top 20 Legal Terms to Avoid: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode resonated, leave a quick review or share it with a colleague. And for more tools to help you use your voice with clarity, stamina, and connection, be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38446610

FYV #39 - Why the Brain Craves Patterns, but Needs Novelty 10/06/2025

FYV #38 - Anticipation, Impact, Reset: The 3 Types of Silence in the Courtroom 09/29/2025

FYV #37 - From Shrill to Strong: Grounding Your Voice Under Pressure 09/22/2025

FYV #37 - From Shrill to Strong: Grounding Your Voice Under Pressure Ever been in the middle of a crucial point in court—or even at home—when suddenly your voice betrays you? Instead of authority, your pitch climbs higher and higher until you sound anxious, unstable, or even cartoonish. This episode breaks down why it happens and, more importantly, how to fix it. You’ll learn the three-step process to ground your body, breath, and voice so you can speak with calm authority, even when emotions are intense. In this episode, you'll learn: Why your pitch rises under stress (and the neuroscience behind it). The three steps to grounding: body, breath, and voice. How jurors unconsciously mirror your nervous system—and why that matters for credibility. Practical ways to practice grounding in low-stakes situations so it’s automatic in court. How to express passion and urgency without sounding shrill or strained. Key Takeaway When your pitch climbs, jurors don’t just hear anxiety—they feel it. Grounding your body, breath, and voice allows you to project calm authority and earn jurors’ trust, even in high-stakes moments. Favorite moment “When your pitch keeps climbing and your voice sounds tight, jurors unconsciously register that as anxiety. If you’re nervous, they feel nervous. But when you ground your voice—through posture, breath, and connection—you project calm authority. Jurors think, ‘This attorney is confident. I can trust them to guide me.’” Links & Resources 🎙️ FYV #36 - How Your Breathing Shapes Jury Decision-Making $7 Mini Training SPEAK SO THEY GET IT: Free Resource THE TOP 20 LEGAL TERMS TO AVOID: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If today’s episode gave you a practical strategy, share it with a colleague. And don’t forget to leave a quick review—it helps other trial attorneys find the show. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38215810

FYV #36 - How Your Breathing Shapes Jury Decision-Making 09/15/2025

FYV #35 - The Trial Attorney’s Guide to Clear Communication 09/08/2025

FYV #35 - The Trial Attorney’s Guide to Clear Communication Clarity in the courtroom isn’t about dumbing things down—it’s about making your ideas stick. In this episode, we explore why clarity is often confused with oversimplification, how the brain processes language, and what trial attorneys can do to ensure jurors not only hear their message but remember it when it matters most. From word choice to pacing to structure, we’ll break down the science of clear communication and how it becomes a powerful tool of persuasion. In this episode, you'll learn: Why clarity is different from simplification (and why that matters in trial). How jurors process information and the role of “cognitive load” in learning. The neuroscience behind why shorter, clearer statements are more memorable. Practical strategies for delivering complex information in bite-sized, jury-friendly ways. How to use voice, pacing, and nonverbal communication to reinforce clarity. Key Takeaway: Clarity isn’t about making legal arguments smaller—it’s about making them stronger. When jurors clearly understand your point, they can retain it, repeat it, and rely on it during deliberation. Favorite moment: “When you reduce your message to one idea per breath, you’re not just speaking more clearly—you’re giving jurors the exact size of thought their brain is built to remember.” Links & Resources: Links to Share in Show Notes: Juror trauma study: Juror counseling program: ***SPEAK SO THEY GET IT MINI TRAINING*** Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: Subscribe to Foster Your Voice wherever you listen to podcasts, and share this episode with a colleague who’s ready to sharpen their courtroom presence. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/38050125

FYV #34 - How Gestures Shape Juror Perception 09/01/2025

FYV #33 - Sound Louder Without Straining: The Mistake Most Attorneys Make 08/25/2025

FYV #32 - Active Silence: How Confident Attorneys Say Less—and Win More 08/18/2025

FYV #31 - The Courtroom Code Switch: Mastering Dual Audiences 08/11/2025

FYV #31 - The Courtroom Code Switch: Mastering Dual Audiences Today, we're diving into a trial skill that's always tested but rarely taught: how to speak both fluent legalese and fluent human. In this episode, we talk about why mastering both languages—and knowing when to switch between them—is one of the most overlooked courtroom leadership tools. If you want to connect with jurors, clarify your message for witnesses, and lead the room with clarity and credibility, this conversation is a must. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why being too good at legal language can actually backfire in front of a jury The difference between speaking to the Court vs. speaking to the People—and how to do both skillfully What happens when jurors hit cognitive overload (and how to avoid losing them) How to translate complex legal concepts into language your jury can remember and repeat The vocal and physical shifts that help build trust with your audience in real time Key Takeaway: If you want to be remembered in deliberation, your words need to live on without you. Speak in language that jurors can understand, repeat, and use to advocate on your client’s behalf. Favorite Moment: “When you say, ‘The defense failed to uphold the requisite duty of care,’ they hear: ‘blah, blah blah.’ But if you say, ‘He didn’t do what he was supposed to do—and that’s what hurt her,’ they get it. That’s the shift.” Links & Resources: 🎁 Download the FREE PDF: The Top 20 Legal Terms to Avoid (and what to say instead) — 🎧 Related Episode: Episode #23 – How to Balance Logic and Emotion in Trial 📕 Jon Acuff Soundtracks: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: And don't forget: Subscribe to Foster Your Voice Podcast and leave a quick review if this episode helped reframe your approach to courtroom communication. Every review helps the show grow and reach more high-performing trial lawyers like you. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37673220

FYV #30 - Why It Gets Harder Right Before It Gets Easier 08/04/2025

FYV #30 - Why It Gets Harder Right Before It Gets Easier Ever made a bold move—only to feel doubt, tension, or total emotional whiplash after the fact? You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. In this episode, Kristi breaks down two powerful concepts from psychology—lagging indicators and extinction bursts—that explain why growth feels so uncomfortable right before it clicks. Whether you’re stepping into greater courtroom presence or shifting long-held habits, this conversation will help you make sense of the chaos and stay the course when it counts. In this episode, you’ll learn: What “lagging indicators” and “extinction bursts” actually are—and how they show up in your leadership growth Why old habits feel stronger right before they break How to know if your discomfort is a sign of backsliding or progress What courtroom communication has to do with a post-dinner sweet treat (yes, really) How to hold steady when your nervous system wants to panic Key Takeaway: Discomfort isn’t always a sign that something’s wrong. It’s often the clearest signal that transformation is already in motion. Favorite Moment: “That rebellion? That chaos? That’s the extinction burst. It doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It means the old pattern is losing oxygen.” Links & Resources: Want more tools to grow your vocal leadership with clarity and confidence? to get new resources, trainings, and upcoming freebies delivered right to your inbox. Loved the episode? Share it with a colleague or friend who’s navigating their own messy middle. Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: Subscribe to Foster Your Voice so you never miss an episode—and if today’s conversation helped you reframe your own experience, leave a quick review. Every review helps the show grow and reach more trial attorneys building resilient, authentic leadership. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37600120

FYV #29 - The Easiest Vocal Warm-Up You’re (Probably) Not Doing 07/28/2025

FYV #29 - The Easiest Vocal Warm-Up You’re (Probably) Not Doing Warming up your voice doesn’t have to be a big production—and it definitely doesn’t require an hour, a piano, or a mirror. In this episode, Kristi shares how to weave professional-grade vocal warmups into your real life using one of the simplest (and most effective) tools around: humming. Learn how to habit-stack vocal prep into your daily routine so your voice stays healthy, responsive, and strong—even on the busiest days in trial. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why vocal warmups are more important now than ever (especially as you get older) What humming does for your voice, nervous system, and mental focus How to habit-stack vocal prep into things you already do—like walking, waiting, or pouring coffee Why humming is a professional-level warm-up (not a shortcut!) How to expand your warmup with glides, range extension, and yawn-sighs A few simple places you can start today—without changing your schedule Key Takeaway: You don’t need more time—you need more intention. Your voice deserves care and prep, and with the right tools, you can give it both without missing a beat. Favorite Moment: “You’re not adding time. You’re adding intention.” Links & Resources: The 6 Ingredients of a Perfect Vocal Warm-up: Warm up with me: Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode helped you think differently about warming up, send it to a colleague or leave a quick review. That simple act helps more trial attorneys discover how to protect their voice—and foster their leadership presence—every single day. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37353580

FYV #28 - Sigh Loud, Yawn Big: Nervous System Tools Hiding in Plain Sight 07/21/2025

FYV #28 - Sigh Loud, Yawn Big: Nervous System Tools Hiding in Plain Sight Sighing and yawning might seem too simple—or too socially awkward—to be real tools for trial prep. But in this episode, we unpack why these everyday reflexes are actually powerful nervous system resets that support vocal clarity, mental focus, and courtroom presence. Learn how to use these low-stakes practices to train your voice and regulate your body for the high-stakes moments of trial. *ADDED NOTE: It goes without saying that, even though I advocate for a more lighthearted approach to public yawning, one should not negate some decorum when it comes to yawning while in conversation with others. Continue to be thoughtful and don't take over their moment of sharing. But if you're casually in line for coffee, go for it. If you're standing at the printer, go for it. If you're talking with a client, or in an important meeting...use your discretion. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why sighing and yawning aren’t signs of boredom—but signs of readiness How sighs help your lungs reset, your nervous system calm, and your voice settle Why yawning increases oxygen, cools the brain, and boosts alertness The science behind contagious yawning and emotional attunement How “yawn-sighs” support vocal resonance, reduce tension, and improve focus Where to build sighing and yawning into your prep routine to improve delivery under pressure Key Takeaway: Sighs and yawns aren’t throwaways. They’re built-in resets that help you breathe better, focus deeper, and speak with more calm, clarity, and connection. Favorite Moment: “You have more tools at your disposal than you realize. And your nervous system is always working to help you—you just have to let it.” Links & Resources: Pace & Pause Free Guide - Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode gave you a moment of reset—or a reason to stretch and sigh—send it to a colleague who might need one too. And if you’re finding value in the show, a quick review helps more trial attorneys discover these practical tools to foster their voice. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37353315

FYV #27 - The Primacy & Recency Effect: How First and Last Impressions Impact Your Case 07/14/2025

FYV #27 - The Primacy & Recency Effect: How First and Last Impressions Impact Your Case Whether onstage or in the courtroom, the way you start and the way you end deeply shapes what people remember. In this episode, we explore the neuroscience-backed principles of primacy and recency—why jurors remember your opening and closing far more than the middle—and how to use that knowledge to structure your case with clarity, impact, and emotional resonance. From voir dire to final argument, your first and last impressions aren’t just about style—they’re strategy. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the primacy effect and recency effect mean for trial attorneys How early “micro-impressions” shape juror trust before opening statements even begin Why your opening must be structured with rule, roadmap, and relatable storytelling What a powerful closing should include—and how it echoes long after you leave the courtroom How to use emotional anchors to make your case human and memorable Why planning your entrances and exits isn’t about performance—it’s about leadership Key Takeaway: Your first impression is a neurological anchor. Your last impression is the one that walks into deliberation without you. Use both to guide, teach, and move your jurors with clarity and heart. Favorite Moment: “You won’t be in the room during deliberations—but your voice can be.” Links & Resources: 🔉Want more on building emotional and cognitive anchors into your case structure? Check out Episode 23: Balancing Logic & Emotion at 📕 Malcolm Gladwell – Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking Book site: ✍️ Primacy & Recency Effects in Trial Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode was helpful, forward it to a colleague or leave a quick review. Every share helps other trial attorneys foster their voice with more clarity, connection, and impact. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37275980

FYV #26 - Let Your Hands Talk: An Attorney’s Guide to Meaningful Movement 07/07/2025

FYV #26 - Let Your Hands Talk: An Attorney’s Guide to Meaningful Movement In this episode, we’re talking about something you’re probably already doing—but maybe not doing intentionally: using your hands while you speak. Gestures aren’t just habits or quirks—they’re powerful tools that support juror focus, retention, and engagement. When synced with your voice, gestures give your message shape, structure, and visual reinforcement. We’ll break down the neuroscience, practical gesture types, and real-world courtroom tips to help your body support your message—without overthinking or over-choreographing. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why gestures are a visual guide for jurors—not a distraction How your voice and body work together to make ideas land Specific gestures from communication psychology you can use (like the Leveller and the Placater) How to “mark” key concepts with your hands to boost juror memory Why inconsistent gesture placement confuses jurors and increases cognitive load The science behind movement, memory, and juror attention Key Takeaway: When your hands and your voice are in sync, jurors stay engaged—and engagement supports memory. Intentional movement isn’t a performance. It’s leadership. Favorite Moment: “If you look boring, they will feel bored. If you use your body to bring clarity, they’ll stay with you.” Links & Resources: Vinh Giang – @askvinh Virginia Satir – Family therapist, creator of the Satir Categories Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode was helpful, forward it to a colleague or leave a quick review. Every share helps other trial attorneys foster their voice with more clarity, connection, and impact. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37169020

FYV #25 - What Jurors Really Need from You: Time 06/30/2025

FYV #25 - What Jurors Really Need from You: Time In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked yet powerful courtroom tools: pacing and pausing. It may sound simple, but neuroscience shows us it’s anything but. When trial attorneys speak too fast or gloss over key ideas without space, jurors fall behind—not because they’re not listening, but because the brain physically can’t process and store that much information all at once. In this episode, you’ll learn how slowing down isn’t just kind—it’s critical to juror comprehension, memory, and informs how they add meaning to your message. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the brain can’t learn and deeply process at the same time How pausing reduces cognitive load and activates attention Why jurors need more time than you think to visualize and retain your story How to think beyond written punctuation and instead speak in “cognitive segments” Simple tools to evaluate and shift your pacing style for greater impact Key Takeaway: Pauses aren’t empty space—they’re active moments where meaning is infused into your message. When you slow your delivery, you’re not dragging it out—you’re guiding jurors through the thinking process that leads to understanding and, ultimately, decision-making. Favorite Moment: “You’re not just presenting a case. You’re teaching jurors how to think about the case. You’re helping them understand it, remember it, and explain it to each other when they’re back in deliberation.” Links & Resources: 🎁 Download the free guide: Pace & Pause: The Perfect Pair This practical PDF includes insights from neuroscience, pacing strategies for different speaking styles, and a simple stopwatch exercise to help you calibrate your internal rhythm—so jurors don’t just hear your case, they absorb it. Want more? 👉 Get weekly tips and techniques delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to "The Foster Files" Newsletter: 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: If this episode was helpful, forward it to a colleague or leave a quick review. Every share helps other trial attorneys foster their voice with more clarity, connection, and impact. /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37061140

FYV #24 - How to Handle Nerves and Reset Your System Fast 06/23/2025

FYV #24 - How to Handle Nerves and Reset Your System Fast In this episode of Foster Your Voice, we’re diving into something every trial attorney faces—nerves. Not just the feeling, but the full-body cascade that comes with it: shaky hands, dry mouth, racing thoughts, tight throat. Instead of trying to “power through,” what if you could lead your body back to calm—so your voice could follow? You’ll learn how nervous system responses affect your courtroom presence, why nervousness is actually a sign your brain’s working correctly, and the simple breathing tool that can help you reset in real time. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded when the stakes are high, this one’s for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why nerves are a biological response—not a weakness How your nervous system impacts your voice, body, and juror perception What not to do when you feel panicked or off-balance A step-by-step breakdown of the 4-7-8 breath technique to calm your nervous system How consistent breath practice builds resilience and vocal steadiness Key Takeaway: You don’t need to eliminate nerves—you need to work with them. Learning to shift your breath shifts your chemistry, which shifts your presence. That’s when your voice becomes a steady, grounded tool for connection and clarity. Favorite moment: “When your body starts to believe you're calm, your voice follows. You become grounded. Clear. Steady. Not because you’re faking it—but because you’ve led your body back to safety.” Links & Resources: Want free weekly vocal and nonverbal tips for trial performance? Join the email list here → Learn more about the science of breathing with YogaBody: Share this episode with a colleague who’s tired of white-knuckling their courtroom nerves. Want more? 👉 Follow me online for behind-the-scenes voice tips, mindset shifts, and strategies to help you lead with your voice in and out of court: IG: FB: LI: Pinterest: /episode/index/show/708f8ff9-f03f-4d6c-9cc1-9639ce27709c/id/37002255

FYV #23 - Balancing Logic and Emotion: The Key to Memorable Advocacy 06/16/2025

FYV #22 - The Body Language Fix That Builds Trust and Carries Your Voice 06/09/2025

FYV #21 - Speak So They Can Hear You 06/02/2025

Foster Your Voice Podcast with Kristi Foster

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