What Public Speaking Taught Me
"Be brave. Takes risks. Nothing can substitute experience."
One fear I’ve seen throughout my career is remarkably consistent: public speaking.
I’ve worked with talented executives, sales professionals, and entrepreneurs who would rather avoid the spotlight than stand in front of an audience. I understand—I used to feel the same way.
My First Speech
In 1998, during my junior year of college, I took a public speaking class. For our final assignment, we had to give a presentation about something we cared deeply about.
As a huge soccer fan during the 1998 World Cup, I chose to analyze the disappointing performance of the U.S. Men’s National Team.
I spent hours preparing and convinced myself I had written a great speech. But as presentation day approached, my anxiety skyrocketed. Walking to the podium, I was secretly hoping for the fire alarm to go off.
Instead, something unexpected happened.
The nerves disappeared.
I delivered the speech with confidence—even a little too much confidence.
I earned a B.
Looking back, the grade made sense. My opening was weak, my ideas lacked flow, and my conclusion didn’t reinforce my message. I wasn’t nearly as good as I thought I was.
What I Learned
Public speaking wasn’t the problem.
My fear was.
The catastrophe I imagined—embarrassing myself in front of my classmates—never happened. It existed only in my mind.
That lesson has stayed with me throughout my career.
If you avoid speaking opportunities because you’re afraid of being judged, you’re also avoiding opportunities to grow your career, build your reputation, and expand your influence.
The Biggest Mistake Most Speakers Make
- “Thank you for the kind introduction.”
It’s predictable and immediately forgettable. - “I’m thrilled to be here today.”
It uses valuable time without creating interest. - “Here’s what you’ll learn today…”
Lead with curiosity before the agenda. - “Who here is from…?”
Unless you’ll use the information, it’s just filler. - Starting with an apology.
It lowers expectations before you’ve even begun. - “How’s everyone doing?”
If the audience responds weakly, your energy drops with it. - “Can you hear me?”
Handle audio before you walk on stage—not after.
Public Speaking Is Your Most Underrated Marketing Tool
Learning to speak effectively has opened more doors than almost any other professional skill.
It has helped me:
- Build meaningful relationships
- Establish credibility and authority
- Strengthen my personal brand
- Create new business opportunities
The fear never completely disappears, but experience makes it smaller every time.
Everyone starts somewhere.
So the next time you’re asked to speak, remember Paulo Coelho’s advice:
Be brave. Take risks. Nothing can substitute experience.