I did a TEDx talk!

We choose to raise our voices for all kinds of reasons: to get ahead at work; to celebrate others; to promote worthy causes and ideas; sometimes even just for the love of the game. What’s your inspiration?

In 2025 I was offered the opportunity to take the stage at TEDx Mechanicsville, and I jumped at it. Stay tuned for my upcoming videos about the experience and lessons learned!

My talk wasn’t about public speaking or communication, at least not directly. It wasn’t about promoting my business, which TED frowns upon. Instead, I used the opportunity to talk about the intersection of three things at the core of who I am – nature, adventure and community – and to advocate for collective action to make outdoor adventure more widely accessible.

Want to check it out? The video is now up!

It took a lot of work to bring this talk together. Multiple drafts, hours upon hours of practice and memorization. But the day of the event made it all worthwhile. The energy of the speakers and volunteers backstage. The joyful experience of connecting with the audience, taking them on an emotional journey from laughter to empathy and back again. The post-event celebration and release of all the pent-up nerves. Four months later, I still get a buzz just thinking about it.

There was a time when I wouldn’t have even considered putting myself forward for something like this. I barely recognize that version of myself. She had no idea how much she had to offer the world, or how much freedom she was missing out on.

Whatever motivates you, and whatever barriers seem to be in your way, you deserve to be heard, too. And you have it in yourself to do just that. If you’re having trouble finding that brave, charismatic part of yourself, reach out or book a call with me. You’d be amazed how much momentum you can achieve from a few coaching sessions!

Thumbnail photo by Lindsey Gibeau Photography