From Stage Fright to Soul Fuel: Why Sharing Your Story is Your Next Great Leap
- Brenda Ridgley
- Oct 29
- 2 min read

I remember my first time stepping onto a stage a few years ago. The stage itself was small,
but the house was packed! A mix of pure excitement and sheer terror pulsed through me. I worried about the short heels I wore, mentally charting a course to avoid a dramatic trip and topple. I had a 10-minute talk memorized, and I wondered: Would I remember all the good parts? Would I leave anything important out? Would I start to ugly-cry during the tough spot?
The truth is, these jitters are normal. They are our body’s honest reaction to doing something big. In fact, many studies show that the fear of public speaking (glossophobia) often ranks above the fear of death when it comes to common anxieties. Think about that for a moment—we’d rather face the ultimate unknown than speak in front of a group!
But why? Because sharing our truth, our story, and our passion is inherently vulnerable. It means being seen.
The Power of Being Seen
That first talk, which detailed a scary but pivotal event in my life, brought up deep emotions. I managed to keep it together, yet as I looked out, I saw tears in the audience. I reached them. That moment—that tangible, visceral connection with another human soul—was an incredible feeling. It affirmed the power of vulnerability, and I was instantly hooked.
Whether you are sitting in an audience, or speaking, this is the beautiful secret: it’s not just about overcoming a fear; it’s about accessing an unparalleled form of meaningful connection. When a presenter is authentic, open, and engaging, it’s not just an "event"—it’s a powerful experience. It’s a moment of shared humanity that entertains, inspires, and shifts perspectives.
Finding Joy in the Share
The talk went off beautifully, and the favorable feedback I received confirmed what I felt in my gut: My story, messy parts and all, was meant to be shared. That initial step taught me that our purpose often lies just beyond the barrier of our greatest fears.
Since that small stage, I’ve had the privilege of broadening my speaking engagements, serving dynamic groups who are ready to lean into their own clarity and purpose.
I now serve groups like yours who are seeking empowerment, clarity, and deep connection:
Sisterhood Retreats and Wellness Events: Fostering deeper bonds and personal reflection.
Professional Women’s Networks and Businesses: Guiding teams through transitions, leadership, and core value alignment.
Non-Profit and Community Organizations: Delivering encouraging messages on tenacity and overcoming life's most difficult obstacles.
Personal Development Conferences: Empowering women to shift focus from the roles they play to the desires for their life and the world.
If you know of a gathering, a team, or a beautiful community that would benefit from an empowering, authentic talk about navigating life transitions, overcoming obstacles, or cultivating deeper meaning, please reach out. Let’s chat about how we can inspire your audience to embrace their next great chapter!
What kind of group are you thinking of connecting me with next?
All my love,










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