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Authenticity in Media: Anchor Voice vs Girl Next Door

Writer's picture: Jazzy TJazzy T

Updated: Jan 28

When stepping into the world of media, one of the first things people ask is, "Do I need a broadcast voice?" Think of the classic late-night AM radio DJ or the anchor voice we’ve all heard on TV. But here’s the truth: the voice you use depends on your platform and, most importantly, your audience.


Jazzy T on Real Business Connections Podcast
Jazzy T on Real Business Connections Podcast

Welcome back to Sound Advice! This limited-edition thought leadership series is here to help podcasters produce, distribute, and monetize quality video and audio podcasts.

My name is Jazzy T and I'll be your guide today.


🎙️ Broadcast Voice: Polished and Projected


As someone with over two decades of experience in broadcasting, I’ve had my fair share of on-air transformations. I began my career in urban radio, connecting with audiences through music and entertainment, and eventually transitioned to being a traffic anchor on News 10 NBC in Rochester, New York.


Each role demanded a different version of my voice—a mix of authority, energy, and relatability tailored to the audience and format.



News10NBC Morning Show Team, October 2018
News10NBC Morning Show Team, October 2018

In traditional broadcasting, particularly on Television, there’s an expectation of professionalism and polish. The "anchor voice" is deliberate, projected, and authoritative—designed to grab attention and deliver information clearly, whether to the back of the room or across the airwaves.


My transition to TV required me to find a balance—maintaining professionalism while staying true to myself. That wasn’t always easy, especially when facing criticism, but it taught me the importance of tailoring my delivery to connect with viewers.


I recently chatted with Ben Albert on his podcast Real Business Connections about this very topic. Watch the full episode below. Follow Ben on Instagram @realbenalbert





🎧 Podcast Voice: Authentic and Conversational


After years in broadcasting, I founded JazzCast Pros, a podcast production company dedicated to empowering underrepresented voices. Podcasting, I’ve found, offers a refreshing level of freedom and authenticity. Unlike the polished tone of traditional broadcasting, podcasting invites hosts to simply be themselves. Your audience falls in love with you, not a persona.


During the pandemic, I took voice acting classes to refine my skills, only to discover that the industry was shifting toward conversational voices. Gone are the days when announcer voices dominated. Now, people want to hear a friend, not a broadcaster.


In podcasting, I always advise my clients: Be yourself. Your favorite podcaster already has their style. Your job is to show up as your authentic self. That’s what will attract your ideal audience.


🗣️ The Role of Audience


Whether you’re podcasting or broadcasting, one factor remains constant:

Know your audience. Every platform and audience has its unique expectations.

For example:

  • A gospel station audience responds differently than listeners of a pop station.

  • A laid-back podcast host might alienate a formal speaking coach’s audience and vice versa.


Your voice should adapt to meet the needs of the people you’re speaking to. Even subtle choices, like inflection or pauses, can make a big difference.


💡 Tips for Finding Your Voice


  1. Understand the Platform: Broadcasting often requires polish; podcasting thrives on authenticity.

  2. Prioritize Authenticity: Speak how you naturally would in a conversation.

  3. Know Your Audience: Their preferences dictate whether you should be technical, casual, or somewhere in between.

  4. Paint Pictures with Words: For audio-only formats, use your voice to create a theater of the mind.


🔑 Final Thought


Your voice is your power, whether you’re on the airwaves, in a podcast studio, or giving a keynote speech. The key is to embrace the unique qualities that make you you. Authenticity wins every time.


As a veteran broadcaster and podcast producer, I’ve coached countless hosts on how to connect with their audiences while staying true to themselves.


Whether you’re launching your first podcast or stepping into the spotlight on traditional media, remember: your voice is enough.





Your Next Read: “Your Voice Deserves to Be Heard,” we explored sound quality—the foundation of podcast success. 82% of podcast listeners surveyed said that they will turn off a poorly recorded podcast in favor of a show with quality audio.


Ready to Take Your Podcast to the Next Level?

At JazzCast Pros, we’re on a mission to help creators amplify their voices and make meaningful impacts. We offer podcast coaching, development, and post-production services tailored for business owners who want to build communities through podcasting.



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