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🎭 Hey Reader!

Shakespeare’s famous line, “All the world’s a stage,” captures the 💗of public speaking? Don't you agree?

Every time you step into a meeting, give a presentation, or even introduce yourself, you’re stepping onto your stage. And whether your “audience” is one person or a hundred, you have a chance to connect, inspire, and own the moment–own the stage.

But here’s the thing:
Many people let fear or doubt take centre stage instead. Their nerves, self-criticism, or “what-if-I-mess-up” thoughts steal the spotlight.

Here’s How I Learned to Reclaim My Stage

For years, I carried the weight of a deeply personal and painful experience that left me feeling small, powerless, and afraid to speak up, speak out and let my voice be heard.

When I was asked to share it —at a conference — in front of a room full of strangers, I froze. Self-doubt crept in, and I thought, I can’t do this; I’m a nobody. Why would anyone want to hear me speak?

I hesitated. I stayed seated. The audience began to clap.

My heart was racing, my palms were sweaty, and my mind kept screaming, “What if you forget everything?!”

✴️ I took the stage.

Partway through, I stumbled over my words, froze for what felt like an eternity, and then…the worst thing happened…my eyes began to sting and fill with tears. My lower lip quivered and I thought My worst fear is happening. I’m going to cry. That’s it; I can’t do this.

But, I took a deep breath, swiped at an escaping tear and blurted, “Ah, shoot, that’s the Virgo in me”. The audience laughed! I looked at a woman. She was smiling. I looked at another woman, she was smiling too.

✴️ It was at that moment I realized they weren’t there to judge—they were rooting for me. They wanted me to succeed. They wanted to me to continue my story, and it occurred to me that sharing my experience wasn't just about me—it was about them as well. Connecting with them broke down the self-doubt.

Was it easy peezy? No, not at all but it taught me to step into my power, own my voice, and connect authentically. What happened surprised me. People clapped, they cried. Several people approached me afterwards and shared how they could relate to my story and were moved by my vulnerability to find strength in plowing through the adversity–both my personal story and my fear of public speaking. I thought, ‘I did it! I overcame stage fright WHILE ON stage!’

✴️ That moment helped me understand that vulnerability can be a source of incredible strength–if we step into it and allow it to happen naturally. The small shift in mindset changed everything. I finished strong, and from then on, I practiced reframing self-doubt into an opportunity to connect.

✴️ Now, I teach others—whether they’re speaking on professional expertise or sharing personal experiences—do the same and connect to their audience through powerful messages, because self-doubt doesn’t have to define your moments on stage.

Here’s How to Reclaim the Stage:

1️⃣ Own Your Voice: Speak as you, not who you think you should be. Authenticity wins every time.
2️⃣ Embrace Your Stage: Whether it’s a boardroom, Zoom screen, or auditorium, treat it like it’s meant for you.
3️⃣ Rehearse Confidence: Confidence isn’t magic—it’s practiced. And yes, you can fake it ‘til you make it!

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💡 Your Next Step:
​Think about the next “stage” you’ll step onto. What would it look like to truly own that moment?

If you’re ready to take control of the spotlight and haven't already, here’s where to start:
👉 Learn 5 Reasons why People Stop Listening to Online Presenters (& How to Get them to Tune Back in) Free MasterClass
​👉 Book a Deep Dive Coaching Session with Me
​👉 Download this handy Turn STAGE FRIGHT into STAGE MIGHT: Master Public Speaking Checklist Toolkit

Public speaking doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With the right tools and support, you can turn any stage into your comfort zone—and your spotlight.

Let’s make it happen together.
I’m here to help you take the first step.

“All the world’s a stage—own yours.”

🎤 Val Erickson
​The Public Speaking Coach

P.S. Have a specific challenge or fear about speaking up? Hit reply—I’d love to hear what’s holding you back and share some tips!

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