Recently, California Governor Gavin Newsom caught attention for his extensive public engagements, speeches, and media briefings. Observing him, I couldn’t help but think about the perspectives of his vocal coach or speech-language pathologist. As a clinician focused on voice therapy, I work with teachers, pastors, lawyers, and health care professionals—individuals who rely on their voices daily. Politicians are no exception.
Our voices often serve as our most essential tool, yet we neglect to treat them with care. Unlike athletes, many professionals who require high vocal performance seldom receive guidance on how to maintain their instrument. They persevere through lengthy hours, speaking in suboptimal settings, only to end up with a strained or tired voice. The positive aspect is that a few straightforward techniques can sustain vocal health, whether you are a governor, a doctor, or anyone who spends their day communicating.
Stay hydrated. The vocal folds vibrate rapidly to generate sound. Picture the challenge of completing a marathon without drinking water. That’s akin to what your vocal folds experience when talking all day without adequate hydration. Water keeps the vocal tissue flexible and minimizes tension. Aim for consistent hydration throughout the day rather than consuming large amounts at once. Balance out caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate, with increased water intake.
Avoid excessive vocal strain and misuse. In my practice, I frequently hear about individuals persevering through laryngitis or struggling to be heard in loud environments. This is much like attempting to run on an injured ankle. Rest is a vital component of proper training. When your voice begins to feel tired, take moments of silence. If you must speak in a noisy setting, utilize a microphone instead of raising your voice.
Be cautious with throat clearing and coughing. These actions may seem innocuous, but they are akin to minor “strikes” against the vocal folds. Over time, frequent impacts can lead to irritation or lesions. Instead of clearing your throat, try a gentle sip of water or a brief hum to alleviate the sensation. Many patients are astonished at how much improvement they notice after breaking this habit.
Pays attention to posture and breathing. Effective voice production starts with breath support. Speaking while slumped or collapsed forces the throat to exert more effort. Focus on expanding your rib cage and allowing your breath to do the work. This is why singers and actors train this way; it empowers the voice without excess strain.
Warm up and cool down your voice. Just as professional athletes warm up before entering the field, high-demand speakers should do the same. Simple humming or gentle lip trills can prime the vocal cords for the day ahead. At day’s end, soft humming in descending notes serves as a vocal “cool down,” relaxing the tissues back to resting state.
Be mindful of your volume and pitch. Numerous public figures often speak at the highest ends of their vocal range to convey energy, but this can lead to tiredness. Strive to use your natural pitch and employ amplification when necessary. Efficiency, not force, should be the goal. Your voice should support you, not exhaust you.
Pay attention to warning signs. Persistent hoarseness, throat discomfort, or changes in your voice lasting more than two weeks require a visit to an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Early intervention can stop minor issues from escalating into serious problems. Too frequently, prominent professionals wait until their voice is entirely gone before seeking assistance.
As an SLP, I encourage my patients to regard vocal health as they do exercise or nutrition. It represents preventive care rather than merely crisis response. Politicians like Governor Newsom illustrate extreme examples as their careers rely on continual speaking, but the insights are beneficial for anyone who uses their voice professionally. Teachers, physicians, clergy, salespeople, and even parents reading aloud in the evenings understand the impact of vocal fatigue. The voice doesn’t come with a warning light, yet indicators are present if you pay attention. Hydrate, rest, practice good techniques, and seek professional guidance when something feels amiss.
While Governor Newsom may never visit my clinic, if he did, I would advise him just as I do all my patients: Treat your voice with the respect it deserves, just like any vital instrument. Safeguard it, train it, and allow it to serve you for the long term.
Carly Bergey is a speech pathologist.