I ? memorizing lines, I ? public speaking. I’m? in networking situations, I’m? in front of an audience of 5-500 strangers.Is that weird?Many of you would probably say “yes” because public speaking is listed among people’s greatest fears. But I find joy, comfort, and a "curious delight" when I'm speaking in front of people.? As a T... Read More

I ? memorizing lines, I ? public speaking. I’m? in networking situations, I’m? in front of an audience of 5-500 strangers.Is that weird?Many of you would probably say “yes” because public speaking is listed among people’s greatest fears. But I find joy, comfort, and a "curious delight" when I'm speaking in front of people.? As a Teaching Artist I engage with students throughout Los Angeles and help them to tell their own stories. ? As an on-camera & podcast host and interviewer I lead fun, smart, informative, and meaningful conversations with interesting people. ? As an event emcee and panel moderator I lead with care and kindness and strive to make every person in that audience feel like they are important and a part of the conversation. Whether it's an audience of 100 or an audience of 1. (It's happened!)So why do I find these kinds of interactions so joyful?▶ Connection As an awkward kid who didn't always feel seen or heard, sharing other people’s stories allows me to connect with them one-on-one. As an emcee I become the connection between the audience and the performance/event that’s happening on stage. As a virtual moderator I'm connecting people from all over the world.▶ Empowerment If you put a microphone or camera in front of most people they love to be heard and seen. And that formerly awkward/currently empowered kid is more than happy to do it!▶ Safety Some actors feel more confident behind a character. I feel more confident behind a mic or a story. Maybe it's because the story becomes the focus rather than me.▶ Trust It takes connection, empowerment, and a feeling of safety to earn someone’s trust. That's what makes for a wonderful and memorable experience for them and a memorable experience for the viewer/listener/participant.I believe that everyone has a story to tell even if they don't realize it.So… What's your unique story that might seem weird to others❓ Read Less