In this episode of Lead to Soar, Michelle Redfern and Mel Butcher examine why women are less likely to ask questions or speak up in public settings, including meetings, seminars, panels, and professional forums.
Drawing on research highlighted in a BBC article, the conversation moves beyond surface explanations and looks at the structural, cultural, and reputational risks women navigate when they speak publicly.
This is not about confidence. It’s about judgement, consequence, and learned experience.
Michelle and Mel explore how women quickly assess the cost of speaking up, how credibility is unevenly granted in public forums, and why silence is often a rational response to environments that punish visibility rather than reward contribution.
The episode also examines how this dynamic affects career progression, influence, and leadership presence, particularly in male-dominated or hierarchical settings.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
What the research actually says about women’s participation in public discussions
Why women are more likely to self-monitor before speaking
How backlash, interruption, and credibility discounting shape behaviour
The impact of public silence on visibility and reputation over time
What leaders can do to create conditions where women’s contributions land
Leadership considerations:
Who gets airtime, follow-up questions, and validation in your meetings?
How are contributions acknowledged, challenged, or ignored?
What signals are sent when women speak and are interrupted or dismissed?
This episode is essential listening for leaders who want better decision-making, stronger participation, and greater equity in professional settings.
Links and resources
Article: Why are Women Less Likely to Ask Questions in Public
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