We need to talk


Reader —

God, I hate speaking.

That’s what I think when I’m packing for an event where I’m going to be on stage.

In that moment, I wonder why I do this to myself and why I don’t say no and what would it take to get the whole shebang canceled so I get out of it without the shame of pulling out. (Something I’d never actually do.)

And then, when I’m up there, the audience laughing, nodding, and taking notes, I’m like, “I WANNA LIVE ONSTAGE! LET’S DO IT AGAIN!”

…Even more so when it’s over and I’m getting un-mic’d and talking to all the attendees who’ve gathered ‘round to meet me.

Giving a talk can be scary — especially beforehand.
But wow, is it worth it.

Speaking builds your authority, subscriber list, buyer and client roster, impact in the world, and feeling of “This is why I do what I do.”

I still hear from people who were there when I first gave my Paid To Be You talk and say it changed them and their business. It sure changed mine!

If you know you have a talk in you but not what the big idea is, I know someone who can help.

Her name’s Jess Ekstrom.
She’s a Top 50 Most Watched TED Talk presenter of 2025; a USA Today bestselling author, has made Inc's Female Founders 500 List…

…and she’s teaching a workshop this month called The Big Idea Bootcamp.

Four live days, September 18, 21, 22 and 23.
$38.
You come in with everything you’ve lived and learned. You leave with one idea, named and shaped into a framework you can speak from.

You can show up with:
• No audience
• No talk
• No experience on a stage
• No business

No nuthin’ — except a desire to make your mark and have people remembering for years how you made them feel.

If you want to go big in your business, you need to talk.
We both do.*

Sign up for The Big Idea Bootcamp here.

xoLaura

PS - *Come to think of it, I need to get some speaking dates lined up for 2027. If you have any favorite events where you think I should speak, lmk!

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Thank you for reading and sharing,
Laura

Laura Belgray (Talking Shrimp)

"Yours are the only emails I actually open and read" - a regular reply in my inbox since 2009...and I'll bet in yours, too, once you subscribe and learn by pure, lazy osmosis to become the most compelling writer around. That said, no promises on improving your moral character.

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