In this episode, Kristi explores how unmanaged energy—both physical and vocal—can quietly undermine courtroom authority and juror engagement. She begins by reframing stress through the lens of mindfulness and thought choice, drawing on Ellen Langer's work to separate circumstance from interpretation.
The episode then shifts into a practical courtroom communication tip, unpacking how frenetic, undirected energy distracts jurors, overloads learning, and erodes trust—and how attorneys can channel energy with breath, pace, and grounded presence to lead the room more effectively.
Authority doesn't come from intensity—it comes from directed energy. When your breath, body, and voice are grounded and purposeful, jurors can focus, learn, and trust you.
The knee-bouncing analogy—and the realization that unmanaged energy doesn't just affect the person expressing it, but everyone around them.
Ellen Langer excerpt on reframing "stress" - https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1Gd7uEj4Ni/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Full episode https://www.richroll.com/podcast/ellen-langer-892/
CLEAR Framework - https://www.fostervoicestudio.com/CLEAR
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If this episode resonated, share it with a colleague who's working on courtroom presence and leadership. And be sure to download the CLEAR Framework to start challenging thoughts that may be shaping your results more than you realize.
Until next time, keep fostering your voice.
