Do You Speak With Vocal Fry?
Go from raspy to resonant with this speech exercise
Some women talk in their lowest possible pitch, called the gravel tone.
This low pitch, also known as the vocal fry zone, is a rough tone that can resemble a creaking door.
For example, consider the voices of the cartoon characters Elmer Fudd, Marge Simpson, or the celebrity Kim Kardashian.
⬆️ ⬆️ You can watch my tutorial video above to hear my vocal demonstration of gravel tone.
If your voice feels perpetually tired or you think you may speak in your gravel tone, here is a simple exercise to help.
Try this exercise to lift your pitch:
First, say this sentence aloud like you usually would:
"May the force be with you." (#starwarsgeek)
Now repeat the sentence, but lift your pitch slightly until you are out of the gravel tone zone from start to finish.
"May the force be with you."
Notice how much higher in pitch you need to speak to stay out of the vocal fry zone. Often, just a slight lift is necessary.
Vocal fry happens most often at the end of a phrase, so try to end your sentences on the same pitch instead of pitching down.
In Defense of Vocal Fry:
Women often feel pressured to speak in a lower tone and be taken seriously, as studies show that people perceive deeper voices as more powerful.
Elizabeth Holmes of Theranos is a notable example—she deliberately lowered her voice beyond its natural range to gain respect and authority.
As more women and marginalized individuals rise to power, we'll hear greater vocal diversity in leadership instead of a one-size-fits-all speaking style.
Find Your Balance: When used too often, vocal fry can make you sound distorted and inauthentic. Notice how frequently you use it and speak at a natural pitch to stay out of the vocal fry zone.
Stay Calm & Speak On,
Jessica
P.S. If you are a woman who wants to improve your public speaking, you are welcome to join our Love Your Voice Community for weekly coaching tips and strategies. Upgrade to a paid subscription to get a coaching call with me! ($97 value) Let’s speak up together! 🗣️💗💗