Episode 445 - Why People Like (or Dislike) Your Voice…It’s Not What You Think

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John looks at why people respond so differently to the same voice. He explains how emotional connection and personal taste often outweigh technical skill, even for trained listeners. The takeaway is clear: focus on authentic expression instead of trying to please everyone.   Episode highlights: Listeners’ preferences are highly individual and shaped by personal taste. Emotional honesty and connection often matter more than technical perfection. Embracing your unique vocal identity is more important than trying to please everyone.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, Ken Bozeman discusses the evolution of his book Practical Vocal Acoustics and the updates made in the second edition. He explores various theories of vocal production, the importance of procedural knowledge in teaching, and emphasizes the significance of expression over language in vocal pedagogy.   Episode highlights: The second edition includes updates based on new research and discussions. Historical pedagogy and modern science can converge for effective teaching. Expression is fundamental in vocal pedagogy, predating language.   To get your copy of Practical Vocal Acoustics, go to https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/practical-vocal-acoustics-9798765156513/   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John addresses the harmful messages singers often receive that lead to shame, doubt, and discouragement. He calls out the myths around aging, talent, and teaching that can make singers feel “less than,” and offers a more compassionate perspective. Your voice is valid, valuable, and worth nurturing at every stage.   Episode highlights: Aging affects every voice, but with consistent work singers can regain strength, range, and tone. Great singers are not simply “born that way.” Hard work and focus are always part of the story. Singing is your birthright, and no one should ever make you feel ashamed of your voice.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John shares five viewpoints he believes may challenge the status quo in voice teaching. From rethinking what makes a teacher effective to questioning how new technologies will shape the field, he invites listeners to explore different perspectives without fear of disagreement. These reflections are meant to spark dialogue and encourage deeper thinking about what we truly believe.   Episode highlights: Empathy, connection, and great ears matter more than technical knowledge alone. Every voice teacher has something to offer, regardless of style, platform, or background. Artificial intelligence is set to profoundly change the future of voice education.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John is joined by Guoying Yang, an interdisciplinary researcher and voice teacher, whose work focuses on the intersection of neuroscience, artificial intelligent, art education, and special education. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is changing art, teaching, and human creativity, and why artists may benefit from engaging with this new tool rather than avoiding it.   Episode highlights: AI is not just a trend but a new tool in human history, like fire and computers. While AI can eventually help diagnose voice issues and assist with learning, it cannot replace human creativity, motivation, and connection. Embracing imperfection and authentic expression is what makes human art irreplaceable in an AI-driven world.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John talks about the value of holding opposing ideas in singing and teaching without rushing to resolve them. He explains how cognitive dissonance, though uncomfortable, can open doors to discovery, growth, and new perspectives on the voice. Embracing it helps us find deeper truths and a more personal path in music.   Episode highlights: Holding space for seemingly conflicting ideas can lead to breakthroughs in singing and teaching. Discomfort in the learning process often signals that growth and discovery are happening. Openness to multiple perspectives helps you find deeper truths about your voice.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John digs into the idea of criticality, the brain’s “sweet spot” for learning, creativity, and performance. He explains how singers can get stuck in either too much control or too much chaos, and why the real magic happens right in between. Find that balance so your singing feels easier, freer, and more fun.   Episode highlights: Great singing happens in the balance between control and freedom. Stress, lack of sleep, and overthinking can pull you out of your brain’s sweet spot. Short, focused practice sessions and even mental rehearsal help the brain stay in flow.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode, John talks with Lucie Burns—author, musician, and performance coach—about the deeper emotional roots of performance anxiety. Lucie shares insights from her decades-long career helping singers connect authentically with their audience by shifting from fear to presence. This conversation offers practical tools for any performer looking to transform nerves into connection.   Episode highlights: Performance is a skill that requires as much practice as singing itself. Constructive self-talk—before and after a performance—is essential for growth. True audience connection comes from feeling the music, not overthinking it.   To learn more about Lucie, go to https://www.lucieburns.com/ and https://www.stagereadyartists.com/ You can find her on social media @lucieburnsperformancecoach   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John shares his personal journey with pitch-matching and explores how singers can improve this critical skill, even if they’ve struggled in the past. He explains how developing audiation, separating pitch-matching from the voice, and using the right tools can help singers bridge the gap between what they hear and what they sing.   Episode highlights: Most people who struggle with pitch-matching are not tone deaf. They just need to strengthen the connection between brain and voice. Audiation—the ability to hear and hold pitch in your mind—is a vital skill that can be trained. Separating pitch-matching from vocal technique creates a clearer, more focused path to improvement.   Check out the free pitch-matching app at johnhenny.com/pitch To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com

In this episode of The Intelligent Vocalist, John explores why even inaccurate or oversimplified vocal concepts can still be helpful and meaningful in practice. He reflects on the balance between scientific accuracy and effective teaching, and encourages a more curious and compassionate approach to sharing ideas and learning.   Episode highlights: Sharing imperfect ideas can still lead to real growth. Teachers and singers should ask, “What’s right about this?” before rushing to correct others. Vocal growth thrives in an environment of curiosity, humility, and shared experience.   To learn more about John Henny, his best-selling books, on-line courses, Voiceschool.com featuring his Teaching Team of Experts, Speaker Training and the Contemporary Voice Teacher Academy, visit: JohnHenny.com