Power of Voice

frequently asked questions

Do I need to understand French?

The main language of instruction in English and we thoroughly embrace linguistic diversity! Our combined program faculty also speak French, Italian, Norwegian, Spanish, Slovenian, and some Hebrew and Georgian.

There are no minimal language requirements for attendance. You will discover how little we depend on language in our communications and expression!

Who attends this kind of program?

Since this bi-annual program launched in 2016, participants from more than 20 countries across the globe have experienced the Power of Voice. Historically, they are senior managers and C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, consultants, coaches, and other training and development professionals. They are change makers from myriad industries with diverse professional experience, seeking a deeper understanding of their voices - both literally and figuratively - in order to manifest their best selves with greater confidence and authenticity.

Our youngest participants have been emerging leaders in their mid-twenties, with the highest concentration being in the 30-45 age bracket, and the most senior participants to date in their mid-fifties. We welcome couples as well as individuals and teams.

We embrace the richness of diversity in every sense of the word.

what is the schedule like?

In addition to 6+ hours of daily group and individual work on body, voice, communications skills, and storytelling, evening sessions include presentations, performances, one-on-one coaching and other facilitated activities. We ensure ample scheduled down-time for rest and reflection. Many participants enjoy solo or paired walks to explore the château and grounds during these times and to share thoughts whilst taking in the abundance of nature’s sights and sounds around Malérargues. Some choose to use the time to schedule massage or shiatsu sessions with resident professionals. Others engage in further conversations with our teachers, or choose to spend additional solo time in the studios.

what should I consider when making travel arrangements?

The closest international airport to Malérargues is Montpellier-Méditerranée served by multiple daily scheduled flights from several European hubs including Paris, London, and Amsterdam. We will arrange to meet you from your flight and drive you to Malérargues, which is about 90 minutes away.

For those who prefer to travel by train, we will meet you at the closest station, Gare de Nîmes, a little over an hour’s drive from Malérargues.

We encourage our participants to plan to arrive as early as possible the day prior to the start of the program in order to have ample time to settle in, enjoy a tour of the venue, and prepare for our opening reception in the early evening, which is an important aspect of the program and will be your first opportunity to meet your cohort and teaching faculty.

After our time together draws to a close, we recommend that you book return flights or train tickets for the afternoon or evening following our final evening together. We will accompany you back to the airport or train station as you embark on the next chapter of your journey.

We’re happy to help coordinate your travel plans so please don’t hesitate to contact us here or via email at info@midderighvox.com

Can I stay in touch with work during the program?

There is WiFi and somewhat limited cell phone service in Malérargues. Whilst participants are welcome to use breaks to check emails and take care of emergencies, we recommend that you not schedule important calls or meetings for the duration of the program. This is your time dedicated to your own development and we encourage you to sign off in order to tune in and be fully present for all that you are experiencing and for your co-participants. The nature of the program design requires that you attend all scheduled sessions.

What about electricity? How can I safely charge my devices?

Power plugs/adaptors for your electronic devices. We recommend that you purchase these in advance of your departure from your home country. France operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. There are three associated plug types: C, E, and F. You can use your electric appliances in France if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220-240V (as is in the UK, Europe, Australia, and most of Asia and Africa). If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100V-127 V (as is in the US, Canada, and most South American countries), you need a voltage converter in France. You can also consider a combined power plug adapter/voltage converter. To be sure, check the label on the appliance. If the label states 'INPUT: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz' the appliance can be used in all countries in the world with a simple adaptor. This is common for chargers of tablets/laptops, photo cameras, cell phones, toothbrushes, etc.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

Yes! Our shared meals are an integral aspect of the program. Prepared on-site by our dedicated team of cooks with fresh, locally sourced, organic produce and great love and care for the rituals and stories of shared bounty, our evening banquets are celebratory occasions full of stories and surprises! We will do everything possible to accommodate your dietary restrictions and requests.

Healthy, balanced meals are planned with your nutritional needs in mind throughout the program, using the seasonal bounty from the château gardens and local markets. We offer vegetarian options at all meals and we are happy to accommodate vegan, gluten-free and other more specific requests.

We serve local wines at dinner time.

Is there a gym close by?

Malérargues is not your typical corporate retreat setting! We encourage our participants to find new ways to work out their bodies outside of the sessions. Many have discovered running and walking paths around Malérargues as well as many creative ways to engage with the daily activities of the château residents.

What will the weather be like?

Temperatures vary in the Cévennes hills and in the Spring and Autumn mornings can be cool, warming up substantially over the course of the day, and typically dropping again in the evening. Malérargues has its own micro-climate which makes it difficult to predict precise seasonal temperatures too far in advance. As the date of your arrival approaches we will send you a recommended packing list to ensure you are well prepared.

How can I connect with past participants to hear about their experience?

Our past participants are happy to connect with you to answer your questions and tell you about their own experience at Power of Voice. To respect their privacy we do not publish their names or contact information publicly so please be in touch with us by email at info@midderighvox.com or directly so that we can arrange introductions for you. You can also reach us via messenger on Facebook, LinkedIn, and WhatsApp.

what is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation requests must be received in writing. A cancellation ay least 90 days prior to the start of the program entitles you or your sponsoring organization to a full refund. For cancellation 60-90 days a partial refund of 50% will be applied. Fees are non-refundable within 60 days of the start of the program. No refunds will be provided for any unused portion of the program. 

Approximately one month prior to the start date for the program, a decision will be made to run or cancel the program. If exceptional circumstances require us to cancel the program, all participants will be notified by Midderigh Vox and will have the option to transfer to a future program, obtain credit, or receive a full refund.

For all additional queries please do not hesitate to reach out to us at info@midderighvox.com

We look forward to hearing from you!