Hi, I'm Allyson
it's time to find your public speaking confidence
Speaking in front of an audience is something that has always come naturally to me. I grew up in a family where both parents were excellent speakers. It was something that was just natural in my household, and learning to express yourself clearly and command a presence in front of an audience was encouraged and revered.
From the time I was young, something shifted the moment I stepped in front of an audience. In my daily life I didn't seek attention - I'd take in the scene and quietly observe. But under the lights I came alive. I trained in piano, dance and theatre, but it was public speaking that seemed to be the most natural for me. From regional competitions, city-wide performances and speaking at school events, the stage felt like somewhere that I belonged.
I probably should have pursued a career in broadcasting, but I ultimately chose a different path. Event planning felt equally natural to me, giving me the ability to combine my creative acumen with the need for order and systems. But I never truly let go of my performing pursuits.
When I became a new mom, I struggled with feeling isolated at times. I had already left my corporate job and opened, then closed, my first business and I was looking for was to connect with myself and with others. I tapped back into my speaking confidence and found work in commercials, corporate videos and on stage.
It felt invigorating, natural and easy. And while I always had a nervous energy when approaching an audition or an initial performance, it soon felt normal, like slipping back into something that truly energized me.
But it isn't always that simple.
I was often acutely aware that not everyone has the same experience in front of an audience.
That what could be energizing to me could be depleting to someone else.
How we approach public speaking is shaped by our own set of unique experiences, influences and upbringing. Speaking in public was something that was done often in my house and it was a skill I observed and modelled from a very young age. I never had a bad experience, so as I matured and pursued more, validation followed and confidence grew.
That's not something that is available or experienced by everyone.
The fear and anxiety that people feel when speaking in public is so common, but what I've discovered is that people don't lack the ability to speak well in public - they're being held back by something deeper. Something that may have influenced them early on, but that still has a hold over them.
Inadequate examples, lack of opportunity, even traumatic experiences, all shape how you show up. The gap between knowing you're capable and actually feeling it in the moment is real.
It's also exhausting and deserves more care, time and validation that simply "practicing more" or "learning to get over it".
I help people capture their public speaking confidence
To own any room and ensure their words land as intended.
That's what brings me to this work.
I believe that everyone should feel comfortable in front of an audience. Whether that be in the boardroom, on stage or in any group setting, your voice, your words and your knowledge deserve to be heard.
In our 1:1 work together we work to unravel more than just "nerves" and work towards calming the inner voice that questions your capability. Everyone's experiences, stories and life has shaped their own unique challenges and we work to build confidence and skills that honours what is uniquely yours.
skill building that lasts
honesty that uplifts
exploration around you
Complete presence
When we work together you'll find
I'm fully engaged with you in every session, not running through a script or watching the clock. I listen intentionally and respect your time.
I ask the questions and seek the answers that have defined your experiences with public speaking; because the resistance you feel is completely unique to you.
I help you be honest with yourself so that you can recognize your blocks and free yourself from the anxiety
You'll discover techniques that work for YOU in order to build lasting and sustainable confidence.
partnership through it all
We work together, through all the anxiety, to find a place that feels great for you.
Some things about me. . .
- Nurse Jane
- The Odd Couple
- The Sleeping Beauty
Theatre
- General Motors
- TD Bank
- Oreo
- MobiControl
- Microsoft
- Sobey's
- Palliser
corporate/video
- Sunbeam
- Kraft Canada
- Blackberry/RIM
- Ford
- Smart Brands
- Insight Sports
commercials
I've had the pleasure of working with some great people and companies. The following are just a few.
Over the course of our sessions together, she consistently reflected things I was saying, but not yet fully seeing, which led to many powerful breakthroughs for me. She brings a rare blend of warmth, humour, and directness that makes her feedback land with both honesty and care. Her presence and insight made a meaningful difference in my growth, and helped me achieve goals that had eluded me for over a year.
Allyson is an exceptional coach
-Iman. A
I have had the privilege of working with Allyson for over six months during a significant transition into a new role, and the impact has been remarkable. She is kind and patient, yet knows exactly when to challenge me, and that balance has made all the difference. She is professional, reliable and deeply committed to her client's success.
I highly recommend Allyson to anyone navigating a transition, stepping into greater responsibility or committed to growing. Working with her has absolutely been worth the investment; the growth and results I've experienced speak for themselves.
Allyson has been a true partner in my growth.
-Jenny J. Founder ELC
