It’s Not What You Say… It’s How You Sound When You Say It

May 6, 2025 by Dorice Horenstein

At TEDxPortland last month, I heard a quote from speaker Chris Brown that hit me right into my soul:

“It’s not what you say. It’s how you sound when you say what you say.”

Yes! That’s the magic right there.

Because let’s be honest—we don’t always remember the exact words someone used, but we always remember how they made us feel.

This goes way beyond voice tone. It’s about energy. Intention. Presence.

It’s about the sound of sincerity… or the lack of it.

Think about this example. Ever get an email like this?

“Thanks. I’ll take it from here.”

Now technically, it’s polite. But doesn’t it sound cold? Dismissive? Maybe even a little blamey?

Now contrast that with:

“Thanks so much for getting this started. I’ll take it from here and circle back if I need anything else.”

Same basic content—but a completely different feel.

Why? Because the second version carries warmth. Gratitude. Respect.

In speaking, coaching, and life—we connect not just through words, but through vibes.

And those vibes are shaped by how we sound, whether out loud or in writing.

So next time you speak—at work, with your kids, in a meeting—pause and ask:

Does how I sound match what I truly mean?

The joy is in the alignment.

And your champion voice? It always speaks with heart.

Until next time,

Be Positive, Be Yourself, Be the Champion you want to see!

PS: I speak on resilience, communication, and how to cultivate intentional leadership that leaves others feeling seen and supported. Want to explore bringing this message to your team?

PS: Want to explore how your team or organization can build a culture of excellence through mental fitness and resilient leadership? Let’s talk. [Insert link to speaking demo or contact page

Cheering you on always,
Dorice Horenstein
Oy to Joy Champion Catalyst

PS: If this reflection resonates, feel free to share it with someone who might need a little joy. And if you’re looking for a keynote speaker who can bring these kinds of personal and inspiring stories to your next event, let’s connect! Check out my demo video here.

PPS: I’d love for you to join me on my YouTube channel, where I share more stories, inspiration, and tips on resilience and joy. Subscribe here and let’s continue the conversation!

And as always,

Be Positive. Be Yourself. Be the Champion You Want to See!

Dorice Horenstein

Dorice Horenstein, renowned as the “Oy to Joy” International Champion Catalyst Speaker, transforms tactics into practical strategies! As a Positive Intelligence expert and best-selling author of Moments of the Heart: Four Relationships Everyone Should Have to Live Wholeheartedly, Dorice energizes and motivates global audiences to uncover their inner champions. With a background in educational leadership, she has made the world her platform, fostering positive cultures by empowering individuals to overcome challenges, build resilience, and find joy, leading to personal and professional growth.

Dorice is a dynamic speaker whose energy and charisma have a global impact. Her core superpower is her ability to present, train, and coach effectively. She redefines “T.E.A.M.” as “Together Everyone’s Attributes are Magnified,” inspiring others to recognize their strengths, enhance effectiveness, and joyfully step into their destined leadership roles. Her mission is to cultivate healthy, positive relationships that reduce stress, increase retention rates, and create a more positive culture both at work and at home.

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