Episode 11. Beyond the Words: Nuance, Pause and Presence in Communication

THIS EPISODE WILL BE LAUNCHING IN APRIL 2026

In this conversation, Sarah speaks with Gina Balarin, a communication specialist based in Brisbane, known for her work helping leaders articulate their message with clarity, confidence, and intention. The discussion explores the art and science of skilled communication, one of the core Calibration Tools for sustainable success, and examines how leaders can strengthen their voice, presence, and impact both professionally and personally.

Gina shares insights drawn from her childhood love of language, her career in marketing and leadership communication, and her work helping CEOs communicate with authenticity and influence. Together, they unpack practical tools for becoming more intentional communicators, from mastering pause and volume to understanding context, story structure, and emotional intelligence.

Key Topics Covered

• The CEO’s Voice – Understanding intention, message, and audience as a single, connected system.
• Why leaders benefit from support that helps them move from “great to extraordinary.”
• Hearing What Isn’t Said – the “sixth linguistic sense”: noticing tone, pauses, nuance, and body language.
• Why leaders need humility and curiosity to understand their blind spots.
• The role of self-observation in elevating communication.
• The Power of Pause – Pausing as a tool for clarity, authority, and audience engagement.
• Why silence is often the most underused leadership technique.
• Communicating Online vs. In-Person – Managing gestures, eye contact and physical presence on camera.
• Crafting Messages That Land – Why message structure must suit both the speaker and the audience.
• Using repetition, clear transitions, and dramatic openings to maintain engagement.
• Consistency, Authenticity & Style
• Practice & Preparation – How over-preparers and improvisers each fall into their own traps.
• Communication at Work vs. Home – The crossover effect: how communication improvements at work can transform family relationships.

Gina Balarin (CPM FAMI FCIM CMktr) is an executive speaking coach, storyteller for C-level impact and founder of The CEO’s Voice and Verballistics. She makes leaders extraordinary on the screen, stage and page, working with CEOs, founders and senior executives to turn their ideas into influence and their messages into moments that move people.