Do you think you're a funny or a totally-not-funny type of speaker?

Even though, people say that I'm funny, I used to think I wasn’t the “funny-type' of speaker.

I had witnessed other people effortlessly crack jokes during their speeches, and their audience was literally in stitches. Meanwhile, I’d edit and re-edit my script until I had drained the marrow from my funny-bone certain I with so much effort put into writing, surely I would 'break a leg' on stage.

It didn't turn out that way. I stayed on script but often my well-thought-out-and-scripted-jokes fell flat and I'd leave the stage feeling defeated—and resigned myself that I'm not a funny speaker—humour just wasn’t in my blood.

But deep down, I knew that humour in public speaking wasn't the same as the humour in retelling a joke. It was about creating an experience for the listener.

So I studied it. Yup, it's true. I know, I know—I'm a total geek.

I learned, that humour is about combining structure with creativity and wit. It's about the emotional connection with the audience. It’s about showing a little vulnerability, creating light moments, and helping people feel more at ease. The problem was, I just didn’t know how to do it in a way that felt real to me. (and as you may know, I am ALL about the HOW)

Then, I had an experience that changed everything. I was giving a speech, and in the middle of it, I stumbled through a simple sentence.

*cue the uncomfortable feeling of being caught in the spotlight with nothing to say.

Instead of referencing my mistakes, I drew their attention away by going a little off script and said, (as I pretended to dab at my eyes), "Eeeks, I still get choked up about it!" . To my surprise, the audience laughed! It wasn’t planned, but in that moment, I realized something important: authentic humour should not be forced.

It was my aha moment. Humour can and should be simple, natural, and even spontaneous. I didn’t need to try so hard to find the perfect funny line and overwhelm myself with overly-scripted punchlines. I just needed to give those natural little moments space and let them breathe.

Since then, I’ve incorporated humour in a way that feels like me. It’s about being human, sharing relatable stories, and keeping things light when appropriate. The result? Audiences connect more deeply and the whole atmosphere feels less rigid and more conversational.

In the Certified Public Speaking Academy, I teach how to add humour to your speeches in a way that feels effortless and authentic—without the pressure of trying to be a stand-up comedian. It’s about finding those moments that naturally bring a smile to your face, and by extension, to your audience.

If you want a deeper dive, hit reply and tell me what's coming between you from your funny bone.

Next time you’re giving a speech, remember: humour doesn’t have to be complicated. Be yourself, let those light moments happen, and watch how it transforms your connection with the room.

Here's to letting it happen 🎤,

​
Val xx
Certified Public Speaking Academy

P.S. The secret to authentic humour is letting it happen not making it happen.

​