Hey, Speakers! What’s the best (or worst) piece of speaking advice you’ve ever received?

Hey, Speakers! Would you rather: Speak at TEDx but not get paid, or get $10K for a corporate gig but never get to share the talk publicly? Curious about your take on this 👀

With the recent changes in the political climate, im worried that a lot of erg and dei focused speaking opportunities may be changing? I speak to working women and was hoping to get into the corporate market… not sure whether that will be a feasible plan now. Just wondering how those of you who speak to specific groups plan to adapt, pivot, or perhaps maybe you have not experienced any changes so far? Not meant to be a discussion on the politics but what ways speakers can adapt their business

Hey, fellow speakers! What’s your secret for connecting with the crowd? Is it a killer story, a funny quip, or just your charming smile? 😄 Share your best tips or memorable moments!

But here’s the truth no one tells you—every single person at the top got there by doing what’s uncomfortable. Reaching out to people they don’t know. Shaking hands, kissing babies, and hustling when no one’s watching. You want to get noticed? It’s not gonna happen hiding behind a screen. (Especially as a speaker) It’s a hard fact: no matter how good your talk is or how strong your presence is on stage, if no one’s hearing about it, your competition’s stealing your gigs. Here’s my challenge for you: Every. Single. Day. Set aside a chunk of time—15, 30 minutes, whatever works—and message people you’ve never talked to before. Because sitting around and waiting to be discovered is just not going to cut it. 1. First tip: Own the awkwardness. It’s supposed to feel weird. Reaching out cold is like your first time public speaking—nerves are normal, but pushing through them sets you apart. 2. Second tip: Don’t overthink your pitch. You don’t need a perfect script. Just introduce yourself, share what you do, and why it matters. What’s worse than stumbling through a message is never sending it at all. 3. Third tip: Embrace rejection as feedback. Getting ignored or shut down doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re taking action, while your competition is too scared to move. If you’re ready to stand out in a crowded market, you have to be okay with getting your hands dirty. What's your ONE prospecting tip that everyone needs to know about (it's okay if you don't do it consistently)