I used to blackout every time I got on stage

Every so often I use this space to make a direct ask, and today is one of those days.

But first, a story.

For years, a pattern played out every time I got in front of an audience. I would prepare carefully. I'd work out my entrance, rehearse my opening, think through every transition. And then the moment I stepped in front of an audience, something would happen. Time would speed up. My mind would go somewhere else. And the words out of my mouth weren't anywhere close to what I had rehearsed.

It wasn't until 10 or 15 minutes in — once I found my footing, read some positive feedback from the audience, and finally settled in — that I would speak at the level I knew I was capable of.

It wasn't comfortable. And I knew my audience deserved better.

So, I decided to do something about it.

Last fall, I enrolled in a speaking cohort led by Dana Black, a friend and colleague here in Traverse City who also happens to be a coach for TEDx Chicago. Over eight sessions I (and eight new friends) worked on building story structure, managing nerves, memorizing the moments that matter most, while also relaxing into being a human being on stage...rather than a polished performer.

The cohort ended with a showcase at the Traverse City Opera House in front of a hundred mentors, peers, community members, friends, and family.

It was one of the most valuable experiences I have invested in as of late. Dana created something rare...a space that felt safe and still pushed me into new territory. I walked away feeling stretched, prepared and genuinely excited about where my speaking is headed next.

And that next step starts with a simple ask.

If you attend nonprofit or business conferences, leadership summits, or association events, I'd like to know which groups are on your radar. Here's exactly how you can help:

1. Contact me with the name of a conference or association event you've attended in the last year or plan to attend (with a website link if possible). I'll take it from there.

2. Make an introduction to the committee, board, or individual who hires keynote speakers and workshop facilitators for that event. A quick email introduction connecting us is all it takes.

3. Bring me in-house. If your company or organization is considering a leadership workshop or staff training, this is a great time for us to talk about what topics best fits your needs.

You can find my most requested topics below. I'd love to learn more about what your organization or community might need between now and the end of the year.

See My Speaking Topics

Make it a great day

Halle

PS: I am open to events in Michigan, the Midwest, and virtual or nationwide opportunities. Bring it on.

PSS:

1. For daily support and tidbits follow me over on Insta! 

2.  Time for a new journal? Pick up a new copy of my Know Thyself Journal for daily support towards your most important intentions for the next 90 days.

3.  Are you into individual assessments? Here is a link to take a free Core Values Assessment (CVI). It only takes 10 minutes and measures your innate, unchanging nature. Take it yourself and feel free to forward to a friend, too.