Hattie Voelcker had a long career as a family law barrister before retraining as a life coach and now works with performers, particularly singers. She tells us about her journey.
Why do you do what you do?
I spent a lot of my life trying to be someone else, someone better. Now I believe that everyone is at their best when they are comfortable being themselves. Singers sing better, speakers speak more persuasively and with greater passion, and all performers engage their audiences more effectively. It really brings me so much pleasure to see my clients grow into that space and find more joy in what they do.
If it’s something you started later in life, why did you wait until then to start doing it?
I spent the first part of my life trying to prove myself, working hard and doing a job that had a lot of kudos but a lot of stress. Eventually, this proved too much and I became ill. This allowed me the space to realize there was a different way of living a successful life, one that was way more enjoyable!
What are you hoping to accomplish?
To get my message out to as many performers as possible that there is a more effective and less harmful way to achieve success than constantly beating yourself up.
If you made a change in your life, how did you make that change? What or who helped you?
My illness!
How do your family and friends react to what you do?
They were initially very disappointed that I gave up being a barrister, but they have been very supportive.
Has your life changed having gone down this path, if so how?
Yes! I have spent more time with my children and have enjoyed life so much more.
What advice do you have for women considering something similar?
It is important to do what you feel is right for you, starting your own business is not easy and can be really demoralising, so having a passion for what you do helps immensely.
What are you proud of and what keeps you inspired?
I am proud of the changes I have helped performers create in their performances which allows them to enjoy what they do. I am inspired every time I see a performer engage with their audience in a new and more effective way.
What do you love most about being the age you are?
Freedom from the search for perfection!
What do you hate most about being the age you are?
Feeling tired
What do you know now that you wish you’d known in your twenties?
That I’m OK, just as I am.
What are the most important business and/or personal lessons you’ve learnt along the way?
Failure is a necessary part of real success.
Do you have a mantra that has guided you more than any other?
The sooner we realize that other people’s reactions to us say more about their shit than our shit, the happier we will be!
Which woman do you most admire and why?
Olivia Coleman appears to be unashamedly herself, never seemingly ever pushing others down to raise herself up.
Is there anything people consistently misunderstand about you?
I’m not as bullish as I appear.
How can Mutton Club readers find out more about what you do?
They can visit my website www.findyourtruevoice.co.uk
Listen to Hattie Voelcker on the Magnificent Midlife Podcast
You may also like: What Singing Means To Me and Finding Hope Despite Chronic Illness – Bev Roberts
Last Updated on February 2, 2023 by Editorial Staff
