Aliénor Hunter is a public speaking coach who transforms people's relationships with speaking and being seen. She started as an extremely shy person unable to email a receptionist, went to therapy after a pivotal crisis at university, and did exposure therapy. She studied engineering but pivoted to coaching because she realised the work isn't about perfect delivery; it's about becoming comfortable with who you are. She's written newsletters, is writing a fiction book, and recently went self-employed. Her mission is changing how the world sees generalists.

Exposure therapy works! Just get into speaking situations regularly. Stop the avoidance cycle by speaking anywhere, even briefly. Nervousness at a 10/15 is normal and gets better with repetition.

Half of your nervous symptoms are invisible. Most physical reactions (racing heart, internal panic) aren't visible. People see only what comes out of your mouth and judge based on energy and message, not stumbles.

Don't berate yourself after speaking; build positive feedback loops instead. List three things you did well before noting what went badly. Ask for specific feedback from colleagues to recalibrate how you view yourself.

True confidence is accepting you might bomb and being okay. The holy grail isn't feeling sure you'll do well; it's knowing that even if you fail spectacularly, you'll still be safe and valuable.

🙏 Special thanks to our podcast producer James McKinven! (get in touch for all your podcast needs, he’s really great!)