California Governor Gavin Newsom recently made headlines for his marathon public appearances, speeches, and press briefings. Watching him, I could not help but wonder what his voice coach or speech-language pathologist might say. As a clinician who specializes in voice therapy, I see teachers, pastors, lawyers, and health care providers (people who depend on their voices every day). Politicians are no different.

Our voices are often our most valuable tool, yet we treat them as if they are indestructible. Unlike athletes, most high-vocal-demand professionals rarely receive training in how to care for their instrument. They power through long hours, speaking in less-than-ideal environments, only to find themselves with a hoarse or fatigued voice. The good news is that a few simple strategies can preserve vocal health, whether you are a governor, a physician, or anyone who spends their day speaking.

Hydration is your best friend. The vocal folds vibrate hundreds of times per second to produce sound. Imagine running a marathon without water. That is what your vocal folds do when you speak all day without proper hydration. Water keeps the tissue supple and reduces strain. Aim for steady hydration throughout the day rather than chugging all at once. Caffeine and alcohol, both drying, should be balanced with extra water intake.

Avoid vocal overuse and misuse. In my clinic, I often hear stories of patients pushing through laryngitis or straining to be heard in noisy rooms. This is similar to running on a sprained ankle. Rest is part of training. When your voice feels tired, allow moments of silence. If you need to speak in a loud environment, use a microphone instead of shouting.

Beware of throat clearing and coughing. These habits may seem harmless, but they act like tiny “slaps” against the vocal folds. Over time, repeated slaps can cause irritation or even lesions. Instead, try a gentle sip of water or a quick hum to clear the sensation. Patients are often surprised how much better they feel once they break the cycle.

Mind your posture and breath. Efficient voice production begins with breath support. Speaking from a collapsed chest or slouched position forces the throat to work harder. Think about expanding your rib cage and letting the air do the work. Singers and actors train this way for a reason; it gives the voice power without strain.

Warm up and cool down. Professional athletes do not step on the field without warming up, and the same should be true for high-demand speakers. Simple humming or gentle lip trills can prepare the voice for a long day. At the end of the day, soft humming on descending pitches acts as a vocal “cool down,” easing the tissues back to rest.

Watch your volume and pitch. Many public figures speak at the very top of their range to project energy, but this can be fatiguing. Aim for your natural pitch and use amplification when needed. The goal is efficiency, not force. Your voice should carry you, not wear you out.

Listen to warning signs. Persistent hoarseness, throat pain, or changes in voice lasting more than two weeks deserve attention from an ear, nose, and throat physician. Early evaluation prevents small issues from becoming major problems. Too often, high-profile professionals wait until they lose their voice entirely before seeking help.

As an SLP, I want my patients to think of vocal health the same way they think of exercise or diet. It is preventive care, not just crisis management. Politicians like Governor Newsom are extreme examples because their careers hinge on constant speaking, but the lessons apply to anyone who uses their voice professionally. Teachers, physicians, clergy, salespeople, and even parents who spend their evenings reading aloud know the toll of vocal fatigue. The voice does not come with a check engine light, yet the warning signs are there if you listen. Hydrate, rest, use good technique, and seek professional help when something feels off.

Governor Newsom may never find himself in my clinic, but if he did, I would give him the same advice I give to my patients every day: Treat your voice with the same respect you would give any vital instrument. Protect it, train it, and let it serve you for the long haul.

Carly Bergey is a speech pathologist.