Episode Description
This episode of Liz on Biz welcomes Lorraine Connell, creator of the Speak Boldly Showcase. The conversation dives into helping women who might not see themselves as public speakers find their voice and share their stories, explores the pivotal impact of formative teenage experiences, and examines the business realities and emotional journeys of building a community-led speaking platform. Lorraine and Liz reflect on confidence, belonging, and the vital role stories play in personal and professional growth.
Highlights
- Introducing Lorraine Connell and Speak Boldly Showcase
- The conversation focused on Lorraine’s mission to empower women, especially those who don’t traditionally see themselves as public speakers, by providing a platform and guidance to share their stories 00:00:38.
- The Power of Teenage Experiences
- One concept discussed was how events from adolescence often shape the work women do as adults, revealing direct links between formative teenage moments and professional passions 00:01:39.
- Overcoming the ‘Not Good Enough’ Narrative
- A key theme that emerged was the persistent feeling of not being “good enough” and how these internalized beliefs, stemming from early setbacks or rejections, influence adult confidence and career choices 00:04:09, 00:05:23.
- Building Confidence and Leadership
- The discussion explored Lorraine’s origins in education and her signature leadership program for students who might be overlooked, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for those not naturally seen as leaders 00:06:16.
- The Transformational Power of Storytelling
- Several points were raised, including how sharing stories removes shame, fosters connection, and helps others realize they are not alone in their struggles 00:12:59, 00:15:21.
- Speak Boldly Business Model and Challenges
- The episode examined the financial realities of running Speak Boldly, including application fees, event ticketing, and the delicate considerations around paying speakers versus maintaining inclusivity. The discussion explored upcoming offerings such as coaching programs to help women craft and deliver their messages 00:19:03, 00:23:00.
- Networking That Matters
- The conversation focused on authentic networking, prioritizing genuine human connection over transactional exchanges, and how personal stories make lasting impressions 00:17:06, 00:18:12.
- Advice for Aspiring Storytellers
- A key message was that stories not directly related to business are often even more powerful, and everyone has a story that matters—even if it doesn’t feel “big enough” at first 00:29:37.
Connect with Lorraine Connell
- Instagram: @speakboldlyshowcase
- Website & Event Info: speakboldlyshowcase.com
Explore paths for sharing your story or attending a future event.
Quotes and takeaways:
- “When they share their story, it takes that burden from carrying it…shame into being like, oh, there are other people nodding their head when I say that. I’m not alone.” 00:12:59
- “Struggle opens up possibility for progress…If you do things that are hard, you’re only gonna grow and get better.” 00:28:23
For future women speakers and those wishing to connect, visit Speak Boldly Showcase for monthly networking and story-sharing opportunities.
