Author, Human Communication & Public Speaking

Coach and Trainer, Mother, Wife, Leader in Ministry 

I can recall the days of my tender years in grammar school when I was extremely timid and afraid to speak when called upon in class. I feared the teacher calling my name - which was already difficult for many to pronounce - and I intentionally avoided eye contact with her. With my heart pounding and sweaty hands, I sunk into my seat. When I heard another name called, I quietly exhaled with deep gratitude that I was not called upon but fearful that it might be me the next time. I did not know then that I was experiencing something very common to humanity – Glossophobia.

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Glossophobia, also known as the fear of public speaking (public speaking anxiety), is something that many people struggle with – and I use the word struggle with great emphasis. Most studies have proven the fear of public speaking is the number one phobia, with death being number two! WOW!

 

74% of people suffer from glossophobia. What's even more alarming is only 8% seek professional help to become more confident and effective. 

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Jerry Seinfeld said it best, "According to most studies, people's number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if you go to a funeral, you're better off in the casket than doing the eulogy." 

 

When I was part of the 74% mentioned above, I felt inferior, insecure, and incompetent while speaking before a group. It was then that I realized how glossophobia impacted my confidence and my competence. My advancement personally, professionally, and socially took a hit! I did not have faith in my voice, and this concerned me! This was my "ah-ha" moment.

 

My turning point occurred when I realized the value in developing - not just my skills to speak publicly, but my communication skills overall! Oh, what an eye-opener this was for me! During my collegiate studies, I decided to challenge myself and enroll in an advanced public speaking course. After experiencing the benefits of facing this fear head-on, I began to see how my life started to evolve. Fear no longer had me in its grip. I developed a passion for the art of communication and public speaking. 

 

In 2016 in my pursuit of developing solid and effective communicators, iSpeak Confidently was birthed to educate and train leaders in communication and public speaking by providing profitable solutions to bridge the gap between competence and confidence.  I am dedicated to helping leaders become the best speakers they can be. 

 

As an educator, I teach my students not only how to overcome glossophobia, but the process of how to become confident and competent communicators. Through iSpeak Confidently, I offer training programs such as Boot Camps, Master Classes, Small Group Professional Training, One-on-One VIP sessions, Mentorship Group Coaching, and Free Consultations. 

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Since I have walked this path, I understand and know firsthand this process of development. After years of teaching and training, I have witnessed clients pursue new heights because they have discovered the power of their voices.

 

My truth is – to have faith in your voice, you must start by gaining the knowledge and understanding that will equip you to become more effective!

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Like billionaire Warren Buffett said in an article, "This $100 college course gave me the most important degree I have’—and it’s why I’m successful today. 

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Guess what that course was... PUBLIC SPEAKING!!!

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The article stated, 'Up until the age of 20, he [Buffett] had a fear of public speaking. “Just the thought of it made me physically ill,” the billionaire shares in his “Getting There” essay. “I would literally throw up.”  

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Thankfully, he took the challenge to overcome his fear!

 

SO, ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?