In 2023 I was invited to speak as a keynote speaker at the PA Area on Agency Health and Wellness Conference. It was quite a journey—from the initial honor of being invited to the rollercoaster of emotions that followed.
In preparation for a speech, you always consider the audience and direction that you want the story to unfold. Long days, long night and longer hours to into the overall speak before the event. I am committed to not utilizing notes cards and do all my speeches by memorization. I am the story, and I am the prop as it is a bold approach, especially if you fail to make an impact or impression.
My speech, without going into detail was entitled, “How to Become a Rockstar!!” I must of have made some form of impression or impact as I received unsolicited feedback. It was heartwarming to have individuals thank me for incorporating my faith and recognizing my efforts.
But then came the anonymous feedback. Ah, the mysterious veil of anonymity—the same one that shrouds love letters and peaceful protestors. It’s fascinating how feedback can cut deep, even when it’s not directly attributed to a specific person, even though it was directed towards my efforts. Those three words— “inappropriate,” “disappointing,” and “felt like I was in a therapy session”—echoed in my mind for months, even as I write this.
As a speaker, you pour your heart and soul into your words, and when they’re met with criticism, it’s natural to question everything. Was it the music? The storytelling? The references to Dr. Dre, Snoop, and Eminem? Sometimes, we’re left wondering if our message truly landed or if it got lost in translation—and it impacts you.
As I processed all of this, I realized I was swimming in a different sea—this is a powerful metaphor. As I was moving from the familiar ponds/pods of speaking to this unknown vast ocean of knowing no one in the audience, which meant encountering hazards and risks.
Overtime I embraced the “anonymous feedback” as I didn’t shy away from the feedback; instead, I have begun to weave it into my next speech material—turning critique into growth…what did you think, I was going to let it burn me? Or better yet, solicit some friends to leave me some “authentic reviews” to counteract my deflated ego to make me feel more validated…you know who you are.
In my speeches, the real version of life isn’t always polished. It’s raw, unfiltered, and sometimes messy. But that’s where authenticity resides. I wear my “garbage” proudly, and that’s what sets me apart.
Keep making noise amidst the noise, my friends. You’ve got this!
-Jesse
