U7422769332 complete three sisters companion planting system 17342e61 ae24 41d8 900b f5f12a0bcc82 0

The Three Sisters’ Garden

I was on a garden tour one day, and as I walked through, everything was just beautiful. I saw bright flowers and tiny bonsai trees, all so peaceful and full of life. But there was one part of the garden that really caught my eye, something called The Three Sisters Garden.

In this section, I saw squash growing at the bottom, tall corn reaching toward the sky, and beans wrapping themselves gently around the corn stalk. The guide explained that this method is called The Three Sisters Garden, and it instantly grabbed my attention, not just because of the name, but because of how each plant supported the other.

Now, let me just say this, I’m not really a gardener. My style of gardening is what I like to call free-spirited gardening. And yes, I might’ve made that up! Basically, I just wet the ground, throw a bunch of seeds on it, and hope something grows. If it does, I’m happy. If it doesn’t, well, maybe it just wasn’t meant to be.

But standing there, looking at this garden where every plant had a role and purpose, it made me think of my own sisters. And honestly, it doesn’t even have to be sisters; it could be two brothers and a sister, three friends, or anyone who grows together and supports one another in life.

That’s what inspired this story… The Three Sisters’ Garden.

The Three Sisters’ Garden

Long ago, in a quiet village, there lived three sisters. Though they were different, their hearts beat as one, and they loved each other dearly.
The eldest sister was tall and proud. She planted corn, rising straight toward the sun. Her sturdy stalks became a ladder for her family.

The middle sister was gentle and clever. She planted beans, which twined gracefully around her elder sister. While she leaned on corn for support, she gave back to the soil. Beans would draw nitrogen from the air and return it to the earth, nourishing her sisters so they could all grow stronger.

The youngest sister was small but fierce. She planted squash, and her wide leaves stretched across the ground like a blanket. She shaded the soil to keep it cool, held water beneath her, and chased away weeds. She even protected the tall corn from harsh winds by covering the ground with her vines.

Together, the three sisters grew in harmony. Corn gave strength, beans gave nourishment, and squash gave protection.

For centuries, Native peoples planted them side by side, knowing that the Three Sisters thrived best when they stood together. Not only did they balance the garden, but they balanced the people, too, corn giving energy, beans providing protein, and squash offering vitamins and strength.

And so, the story was told just as the Three Sisters of the garden care for one another, so must sisters in life. For when they stand together, protecting, supporting, and nourishing, nothing can tear them apart.

My Reflection

When I think about The Three Sisters' Garden, I see my own family.
Corn, beans, and squash growing together, each one supporting the other. The corn stands tall so the beans can climb. The beans give nutrients back. The squash protects everyone's roots.

That's how relationships should work. We all grow better together.
But not every garden is healthy. Sometimes the soil is toxic. When one person stops showing up, it affects everyone trying to grow beside them.
Here's what I've learned: you're not stuck in one garden. If your friends, family, or anyone does not support your growth, find people who will. Friends who lift you. Communities that nourish you. A family that cares for you.

Relationships thrive on give and receive. In the garden, each plant offers something special but also stays open to what the others give back. That's the balance that makes everything grow.

We deserve a garden where we can thrive.

U7422769332 detailed version a warm inviting illustration of 9391348a dcab 4abe 8c6e 31fb7b42460e 0

How Storytelling Helps Children’s Development

The other day, someone asked me a question that made me smile:
“How does storytelling help with child development?”

It’s a great question, but here’s the thing most people don’t realize: children have been telling stories long before we ever called it “storytelling.”

Think about it. When a child rushes up to you, eyes wide, and says, “Guess what happened today!” that’s storytelling. When they use their toys to reenact adventures or turn a cardboard box into a rocket ship, that’s storytelling too. Kids are natural storytellers. They just don’t always know it yet.
Our job as adults, mentors, and parents isn’t to teach them to tell stories it’s to encourage them to keep telling them.

1. Storytelling Builds Imagination and Creativity

When children tell stories, they’re building worlds from scratch. Their characters can fly, animals can talk, and the impossible becomes possible. That kind of imagination isn’t just play; it’s a workout for the brain.
Storytelling teaches children to see beyond what’s in front of them. They start to connect ideas, experiment with “what if,” and develop creative problem-solving skills. These are the same skills they’ll use later in life to dream big, innovate, and think independently.
So, the next time your child says, “Once upon a time, a unicorn saved the day,” don’t correct them. Celebrate it. That’s creativity in action.

2. Storytelling Strengthens Communication Skills

A child telling a story is doing something powerful; they’re learning how to express thoughts, organize ideas, and connect with others through language.
When they share what happened at school, when they describe a dream, or when they make up a tale before bedtime, they’re practicing verbal clarity, vocabulary, and emotional expression.
And the best part? They don’t even realize they’re learning.
Encouraging children to tell stories helps them find their voice, literally and figuratively. It gives them confidence in expressing themselves and teaches them that their thoughts and words have value.

3. Storytelling Fosters Emotional Intelligence

Every story has emotion behind it: joy, fear, excitement, frustration, hope. When children tell stories, they’re not just sharing events; they’re processing how they feel about them.
For example, when a child says, “The dragon was mean!” they might really be saying, “Someone scared me today.” Storytelling helps them understand their emotions and develop empathy for others.
When we listen to their stories without judgment or correction, we teach them something vital: their feelings are valid and worth hearing.

4. Storytelling Builds Memory and Critical Thinking

Stories help children remember details, patterns, and sequences. When a child recalls what happened first, next, and last, they’re strengthening memory and organization.
It also sparks critical thinking. As they create characters and conflicts, children start asking themselves, “What happens next? Why did that happen? How does this end?”
That’s the foundation of logical thinking, something they’ll use in school, in relationships, and in every area of life.

5. Storytelling Creates Connection

One of the most beautiful parts of storytelling is how it brings people together
When a child tells a story, they’re not just talking, they’re inviting you into their world. It’s a bridge between their imagination and your understanding. Whether it’s silly, sweet, or downright chaotic, that story is a chance for connection.
When we listen, we’re saying, “I see you. I hear you. Your story matters.”

So, How Does Storytelling Help Children’s Development?

It helps them think, speak, feel, remember, and connect. But more importantly, it reminds them that their voice matters.
Every time a child tells a story, they’re shaping their identity. They’re learning that their experiences have meaning, and that they have the power to create and share their own version of the world.
So, the next time a child wants to tell you a long, winding story about a talking squirrel or a superhero lunchbox—don’t rush them. Let them finish. Laugh with them. Ask questions.
Because in that moment, they’re not just being imaginative, they’re becoming who they are.
Encourage children to keep telling their stories.
That’s how they grow, one story at a time.

U7422769332 create a black woman telling a story to two kids 9ca636e1 35b8 4824 b6b0 31887f3d8a56 3

How to Make Storytelling Interesting: Turning Ordinary Moments into Captivating Tales

Have you ever been in a room where someone starts telling a story and within seconds, everyone’s leaning in, hanging on every word? Then someone else tells a story, and halfway through, you’re quietly planning your grocery list. What makes one story sparkle while another one fizzles?
The answer isn’t just in what’s being told it’s how it’s told.
Storytelling is one of the oldest and most powerful forms of connection. Whether you’re sharing a childhood memory, pitching an idea, or performing on stage, your goal is to make your audience feel something. So how do you turn your storytelling from “just another tale” into something memorable?

1. Start with a Hook Make Them Care Early

The beginning of your story is your first impression. Think of it as the moment you walk into a room people decide in seconds whether to tune in or tune out.
Start with something that makes the audience lean forward. It could be a question, a bold statement, or a moment of emotion:

“I never expected to be chased by an elephant that day.”
“It was the kind of silence that only happens after bad news.”
“Have you ever met someone who changed your life in five minutes?”

A good opening pulls your audience into curiosity before they even realize it.

2. Paint Pictures, Don’t Just Report Facts

Facts tell, but images show. When you describe the smell of rain on the pavement, the tremble in your voice, or the way the lights flickered in that small diner you’re not just sharing a story, you’re inviting people into your world.
Use sensory details. Let your audience see what you saw, hear what you heard, and feel what you felt. The more vivid the scene, the deeper their connection.

3. Keep It Real: Authenticity Beats Perfection

People connect with truth, not polish. You don’t have to sound like a movie script. Sometimes the most powerful stories come from the quiet, awkward, or messy moments.
If your voice cracks, if you forget a word, if you laugh at yourself, that’s human. Audiences love that. A real story told honestly will always outshine a rehearsed one with no heart.

4. Build Tension Let the Moment Breathe

Every good story has a heartbeat: a rhythm of curiosity, surprise, and resolution. Don’t rush it.
Pause before revealing what happens next. Let the audience wonder for just a second. Build small moments of tension, conflict, decisions and discoveries that lead them forward. Remember, storytelling is like music: the silence between the notes makes the sound more powerful.

5. Add Emotion: Make Them Feel Something

You don’t need tears or laughter every time, but you do need emotion. Ask yourself: what do I want my audience to feel when I tell this story? Hope? Surprise? Relief?
When your story comes from a place of emotion, it becomes memorable. People may forget the details, but they’ll never forget how you made them feel.

6. Use Your Voice: Literally and Figuratively

Your voice is your personality, it’s what makes your storytelling unique.
If you’re writing, let your natural tone come through. Don’t try to sound like anyone else. If you’re speaking, vary your pace and volume. Whisper when it’s quiet. Slow down when the moment matters. Add a playful tone when it’s funny.
A monotone storyteller, no matter how interesting the story, loses the audience. But a storyteller who lives inside their story keeps everyone on the edge of their seat.

7. End with Meaning: Leave Them with Something

Every story deserves a takeaway. It doesn’t have to be a big “moral,” but your ending should offer a reflection, a realization, or a shift in perspective.
Maybe you learned something about yourself. Maybe you saw the world differently. Maybe you just made peace with what happened. Whatever it is, let the audience walk away thinking, “I get it. I’ve felt that too.”

The Heart of It All

At its core, storytelling isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection. You don’t have to be a comedian, a writer, or a performer to tell a great story. You just have to be willing to share a piece of yourself in a way that makes others see their own reflection in it.

So, the next time you tell a story pause, breathe, and remember it’s not about impressing people. It’s about inviting them in.
Your story matters.
Tell it with heart. Tell it with honesty. And most of all tell it like it’s yours.

U7422769332 ultra realistic photograph of a beautiful black w 49972a9b 56c9 4ae8 b533 445ba0df01e1 1

What Kind of Storyteller Are You?

Let’s Talk About It.....

Before I get into what kind of storyteller I am, let’s take a step back and look at the many ways stories can be told. You might be surprised at how many forms storytelling can take—and this list is just the beginning.

1. There’s historical storytelling, where facts and dates come alive through characters and conflict.

2. There’s truth-based or autobiographical storytelling, where real life is the heartbeat of the narrative.

3. There’s humorous storytelling, often told by comedians, but really, any story can be funny if it's told with the right timing and heart.

4. There’s folklore storytelling, passed down through generations, rich with culture and lessons.

5. And then there's mythical storytelling, where imagination builds worlds, gods, creatures, and adventures that may, or may not, be grounded in truth.

And that’s just five...Just five!

Believe me when I say, there are dozens more genres and subgenres. But now, let’s get back to that question I was asked:

“What kind of storyteller are you?”

I had to think about it. (Okay, I didn’t sit down to think, but it did stop me in my tracks.) And here’s what I came up with: I don’t fit into just one type. Most of us don’t.
But if I had to choose? I’m an inspirational storyteller.
I tell stories to move people, to get them to laugh, cry, reflect, and sometimes all at the same time.

Sometimes I like to get playful.
Like, have you ever heard the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears told from Mama Bear’s point of view?
Why is Mama Bear always the one cooking the porridge?
Why does Papa Bear always complain about it?
And who raised this wild child named Goldilocks, who keeps breaking into people’s homes?!
That’s the kind of reimagined story I love to tell, taking something familiar and twisting it into something new, funny, and maybe a little thought-provoking.

Sometimes I dip into fairy tale-style storytelling, where the truth might be hidden under a little magic. Maybe there’s a secret godmother, or a mysterious someone pulling strings behind the scenes. These are the stories that sound like they could have happened, if you’re willing to believe.
But at my core, I’m a truth-based storyteller.
I tell real stories about my life, stories people sometimes can’t believe are true.
But yes… they are.
Yes, that really happened.
Yes, they really said that.
Yes, I even ask myself sometimes: “What was I thinking?”

Still, I laugh, because storytelling helps me process it. It helps me connect with others. And more importantly, it reminds me how far I’ve come.

So, if you’re wondering what kind of storyteller I am? I’m a truth-based, inspirational, slightly mythical, often humorous, creative mix of all the above.
And if you’re wondering what kind you are?
Here’s my advice: Don’t limit yourself.
You’re allowed to explore.
You’re allowed to evolve.
You’re allowed to be more than one thing at once.
There’s no one-size-fits-all in storytelling. And that’s the beauty of it.

So, tell me, what kind of storyteller are you? I’d love to know.

Can Storytelling Be Learned?

Storytelling is as old as humanity itself. Long before movies, podcasts, or even books, people gathered around fires, painted on cave walls, and passed down songs and spoken tales. It’s how we made sense of the world, shared wisdom, and built connections.

And here’s the thing: everyone tells stories. A child describing their pet, a teenager sharing a funny moment from school, a grandparent passing down family history, we all do it. But the question lingers: is storytelling just an instinct we’re born with, or is it something we can actually learn and improve?

The short answer? Both.

Anyone can tell a story. But powerful storytelling, the kind that makes people lean in, laugh, cry, or feel deeply connected, is something you can absolutely strengthen with practice and technique.

Storytelling as a Natural Gift

From the time we can talk, we tell stories. A toddler recounts a tumble at the playground, a kid explains how their toy broke, and a friend shares the drama of their day at work. These are stories in their rawest form, unpolished, sometimes meandering, but real.

Humans are wired for this. Storytelling is how we connect, understand one another, and give meaning to everyday life.

Storytelling as a Learned Skill

Here’s where the magic happens: while everyone can tell a story, learning how to shape a story is what makes it unforgettable. That’s where craft and technique come into play.

Some key elements include:

Structure: A beginning, middle, and end give your story clarity and flow.

Emotion & Tone: The way you use your voice, pauses, or even silence can breathe life into your words.

Audience Awareness: Great storytellers don’t just talk at people; they bring listeners along for the ride. Eye contact, interaction, or little hooks keep audiences invested.

Clarity: A good story isn’t about telling everything. It’s about telling the right things, the details that matter most.

Nature Meets Technique

Think of storytelling like singing. Everyone can hum a tune. But with practice, you learn to hit the right notes, carry emotion in your voice, and move an audience. Storytelling works the same way: we’re born with the instinct, but practice turns it into an art.

Final Thought

So, can storytelling be learned? Absolutely. In fact, you’re already a storyteller. Every day, in small ways, you share pieces of your world with others.

The difference between casual sharing and powerful storytelling is practice—shaping your words, choosing your emotions, and delivering them with intention. Whether spoken, written, or visual, a story has the power to bridge cultures, generations, and hearts.

And the best part? The more you tell stories, the better you get.

I want to be a speaker!

Hello everyone, welcome to my blog! Join me on my speaking journey. Years ago, I always wanted to be a speaker, but I did not know how to begin. So, I googled speakers. You know what was funny, when I googled “speakers”, audio speakers popped up. I imagined my head on a speaker. It was hard to get that image out of my head. Of course, I had to be a little more detailed, so I googled motivational speakers. Speaking information popped up, but I was not sure what type of speaker I wanted to be. Only because I already conducted instructional disaster workshops for different agencies throughout Dallas. At the time, I wanted to be an instructor, but I only found volunteer positions. As much as I enjoy volunteering, it did not pay the bills. Over the years I worked non-speaking job. But I always had a passion to speak. Sometimes, I would speak for friends, family and small events. I loved it. But I want to get paid the big bucks! At the time, I thought I had to be famous or have a Doctorate. Well, I was wrong!
I discovered …….
There can be many reasons why someone might want to become a speaker. Some common reasons include wanting to share knowledge or experiences, inspire others, or promote a cause or idea. What is your reason for wanting to become a speaker? less

My list of 10 speaking niches!

I realized I do not have to be famous or have a doctorate to be a speaker.
For the sake of others not reading my very long list of speaking niches or genres, I will keep my list to 10. If you all want the full list, please email me.

Emcee and keynote speaking caught my interest.

But there are so many speaking niches and genres to focus on.

An emcee, or master of ceremonies, is a person who hosts an event and serves as the official spokesperson.

5 different types of emcees:

Wedding Emcee manages the flow of a wedding reception, introduces the wedding party, and makes announcements.
Music Festival Emcee introduces the bands and keeps the crowd engaged.

Comedy Show Emcee warms up the audience and introduces the comedians.

Sports Event Emcee announces the players, provides commentary, and engages the crowd.
Corporate Event Emcee hosts corporate events like conferences, product launches, and award ceremonies.

Keynote speaking is the act of giving a speech or presentation that sets the tone or theme for an event or conference. The keynote speaker is typically an expert in their field and their speech is designed to inspire, educate or entertain the audience.

5 different types of keynote speakers:

Motivational keynote involves a speaker who aims to inspire and motivate the audience to take action towards achieving their goals.
Inspirational keynote involves a speaker who shares their personal story or experiences to uplift and inspire the audience.

Industry-specific keynote involves a speaker who is an expert in a particular industry and presents on topics related to that industry.

Entertainment keynote involves a speaker who uses humor, storytelling, and other forms of entertainment to engage and entertain the audience while also delivering a message.

Educational keynote typically involves a speaker who presents on a specific topic, providing valuable information and knowledge to the audience.

Which Niche?

After thorough research, I have decided to pursue a career as an emcee, speaker, and storyteller.

While many speakers recommend sticking to one niche, I have found that this approach has limited my earning potential in the speaking industry.

I believe that my experience in multiple areas of speaking will allow me to be a more well-rounded and versatile speaker. I am confident that I can provide value to a wide range of clients and audiences. Furthermore, I am excited to pursue this new career path, and I am confident that I will be successful.

When trying to determine one's niche, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of each option.

No matter what you decide, it is significant to do your research and network with other professionals in your field. This will help you learn more about the different opportunities available and make informed decisions about your career.

As an emcee, you are responsible for keeping the event flowing smoothly, introducing speakers, and engaging with the audience. An emcee can be an entertainer, moderator, host, etc.
Here are some tips for being a successful emcee:

Understand the audience and be engaging: Before the event, take some time to research and meet the audience. Make eye contact and use gestures and facial expressions to keep them interested. This will help to create a more personal connection with the audience and make them feel like they are part of the event. This will help you tailor your performance to their expectations and keep them engaged.

Be confident: Speak clearly and project your voice so that everyone can hear you. This will help to keep the audience engaged and interested in what you are saying.

Be professional: Dress appropriately and act in a way that is appropriate for the event. This will help to create a positive image for the event and make the audience feel comfortable.

Use humor wisely: A well-timed joke or a witty remark can lighten the mood and make the event more enjoyable. However, be cautious not to offend anyone or use inappropriate humor.

Interact with the speakers: As an emcee, you are the liaison between the event organizers and the speakers. Take some time to introduce yourself to the speakers and make them feel comfortable. This will help to create a positive atmosphere for the event. Know the event agenda inside and out and be familiar with the speakers and their topics. This will help you to keep the event on track and make sure that all the speakers are introduced and given their proper time to speak.

*In addition to these tips, be adaptable. Even with a well-planned agenda, events can sometimes take unexpected turns. Be prepared to adjust the schedule on the fly and keep the event on track.

As a speaker, you will be delivering a speech or presentation on a specific topic that normally takes place at conferences, corporate meetings etc. Also, speakers can conduct workshops on their topic.
Here are some tips for being a successful speaker:

Choosing a topic that you are passionate about and that you know well, this will help you to deliver a more engaging and informative speech because you will be more likely to be knowledgeable about the topic and have a strong opinion on it. This will make your speech more interesting and persuasive to your audience.

Do your research: Gather information from a variety of sources to support your points. This will help you to build a strong and credible argument.

Structure your speech: Have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This will help your audience to follow your argument and remember your key points.

Use visuals: Charts, graphs, and images can help to illustrate your points and make your speech more engaging.

Practice, practice, practice: Deliver your speech multiple times to friends, family, or colleagues to get feedback and improve your delivery. This will help you feel more confident and prepared when you deliver your speech to a live audience.


*In addition to these tips, it is also important to be professional and respectful of your audience. Dress appropriately and arrive on time for your speech. Be prepared to answer questions from your audience after your speech. And most importantly, enjoy yourself! Delivering a speech that can be a rewarding experience.

Becoming a successful storyteller is an art form that captivates audiences and leaves a lasting impression. To achieve storytelling excellence, whether through writing, filmmaking, or oral traditions, embrace these three essential tips:

Here are some tips for being a storyteller:

Cultivate Empathy: Great storytellers create relatable characters and situations by understanding and empathizing with their characters. This empathy allows them to craft stories that resonate with audiences, creating a personal connection and making the story unforgettable.

Master Story Structure: Compelling stories follow a clear narrative structure with a beginning, middle, and end. The beginning introduces characters and sets the premise, the middle develops conflicts, and the end resolves the story. This structure provides a backbone for the narrative, guiding the audience through the journey and ensuring they remain engaged and satisfied.

Show, Don’t Tell: Effective storytelling goes beyond merely stating facts or describing scenarios. It involves using vivid details, actions, and dialogue to create a more immersive experience for the audience. By showing rather than telling, the audience is able to visualize the story and draw their own conclusions, resulting in a more impactful and engaging narrative.

By cultivating empathy, mastering story structure, and showing rather than telling, storytellers can elevate their skills, captivate audiences, and leave a lasting impression. Storytelling isn't just about narrating events; it's about connecting with audiences, sharing experiences, and evoking emotions.

Black neon we are open instagram post (1) with hyphen

My name is....... Toñe™!

Yes, you guessed it, Nelda Toñe™ is not my real name…. Many reasons why I use Nelda Toñe™. I got the name by using a name generator software. You can google and several will appear. I typed my first name and many names appeared in from my name. Nelda came up… I thought to myself, it is an uncommon and unique name. Toñe™ was something I used because I am in the industry of sound and communication.

That is how I got my name, Nelda Toñe™. Furthermore, I was able to get Nelda Toñe™ for my Instagram, Facebook LinkedIn, email and all of my social media platforms.
I later got my Doing Business As (DBA) and Employer Identification Number (EIN). These are important items needed to open a bank account for a business. FYI, some banks will not allow you to open a business account under your birth name. I experienced it before.

Several people made jokes about the name Nelda Toñe™. I know I have some serious branding to do with Nelda Toñe™. At first, when Nelda Toñe™ was googled, none of my photos appeared. Now, when Nelda Toñe™ is googled, my photo pops up. That was my goal, to make it easy to find me. I do not want to advertise myself with numbers and letters behind my name, a common name or a difficult name to spell. It will be hard for people to locate. Ex. abc456#@gmail.com or abc456#123.com; I would not be able to remember that, and I am not expecting anyone else to remember that either. So far, Nelda Toñe™ has worked for me.

Thank you for reading! If you have comments, questions and or advice, please email!
neldatone@gmail.com.

Green money pattern phone wallpaper pic nelda money

How I got paid as an emcee!

Getting paid to speak with a steady income can be difficult but it is doable. I started speaking free for years. As I stated previously, I eventually worked, but it was seasonal and part-time for local companies as an emcee. While emceeing at different venues and events. I discovered the types of events I prefer and enjoyed hosting, as you can see on my website under the “event host” tab.

The best way to find speaking gigs quickly and get paid is to look on employment and social media sites. Depending on your geographic location you most likely will find someone needing an emcee, DJ, auctioneer, game host, trivia host, wedding emcee, trade show speaker, etc.

These speaking gigs may not be the type of work you are wanting, but it is a start. Understand that one event may open doors for other speaking gigs in the future. These jobs will get you in front of people speaking on the microphone.

Please research companies that state you can make thousands as a speaker if you sign up with them.

Next, I recommend you take your time; develop and brand yourself, build a website, set up social media accounts. I am still working on my social media accounts. I started with zero friends. I am slowly building my social media following. This is where I recommend you research all internet platforms for information that best suits you for your speaking career.

The speaking career is a marathon, and nothing will happen instantly. Therefore, I am always marketing, booking, developing, branding and learning in the speaking industry. If you would like to know how I searched for emcee paid speaking jobs, please email neldatone@gmail.com.

Why I Hired a Company to Build My Website?

Building a website can be a time consuming and a frustrating task. I tried using several free website builders like WIX, but it took up too much of my time, and I wanted to focus on my work. Besides, who has time for all the social media hoopla, right? I turned to Thumbtack for help, but I was overwhelmed with phone calls and emails from the website developers, so I decided to give up on the idea of finding help. After a few weeks, I tried again, this time by checking on Craigslist. To my surprise, I found a company based in California named Certiplex Corporation.

The gentleman I spoke to was personable and didn't pressure me into making a quick decision. I felt comfortable working with them, so I purchased my domain name, and they built my website. They provided ideas about setting up my social media accounts. I cannot stress enough how having someone else build my website was the best decision I could have made.
I am not getting any endorsements or money from this company. If you would like additional information, click on the link. https://www.certiplex.com.

Getting back on social media after being away for over 5 years while focusing on my business!

You know what’s funny and or unique it is however you perceive it. I have not had Facebook in 6 years, have not been active on LinkedIn in 5 years. I tried Instagram and Twitter 2 years ago, but I gave up; and Tic Tok is over my head! I knew I had to learn and get on at least one platform for my speaking business. So, I researched and discovered……….. I need a degree in social media (Ha, Ha) ….. Really… Everything has changed. I am angry with myself for not keeping up with the social media trends.

The reason I was not on social media for years is that I wanted to keep my private life off the social media sites. It was important for me to have boundaries and protect my privacy, especially in today's world.. many people feel the same way.
However, having a presence on at least one platform is essential for my speaking business. From my research I discovered:

To choose a platform that aligns with my business goals and target audience. If I am targeting a younger demographic, I should use TikTok or Instagram, it might be more appropriate than Facebook or LinkedIn.

Develop content and topics that apply to my audience while showcasing my expertise. Consistency is golden, but it's better to post quality content less frequently than to post mediocre content every day.

Engage with my audience by responding to their comments and messages. This will help me build a relationship with my followers and establish credibility as a speaker.

Experiment with different content, such as videos or infographics. Since I realized social media is constantly changing, it is important to stay up to date with new trends and features.

Social media is a powerful tool for building my brand and connecting with potential clients. With dedication and creativity, I can develop a strong online presence while still maintaining my privacy and boundaries.

The importance of joining an association!

I joined Innovation Women in 2022, and recently started using their materials in 2023. I wished I used their resources when I first joined. Please join an organization that best suits your goals in your business and or speaking career.

Joining an association is an excellent way to advance your career and gain valuable insights into industry trends.

In addition to the benefits mentioned, here are some other advantages of joining an association:

Attend conferences and events: Many associations organize conferences and events that can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends, learn from experts, and meet new people. These events can also provide opportunities to showcase your work and build your reputation in the industry.

Access to industry research: Many associations conduct research on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies. By joining an association, you can gain access to this research, which can help you make informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition.

Professional development opportunities: Associations often offer training programs, webinars, and workshops to help members develop their skills and knowledge. These programs can also provide opportunities to earn certifications or credentials that can enhance your credibility in the industry.

Advocacy and lobbying: Some associations advocate for their members on policy issues that affect the industry. By joining an association, you can help shape the direction of the industry and ensure that your voice is heard on important issues.



In summary, joining an association can be a valuable investment in your career. Be sure to explore all the resources available to you, attend events and conferences, and take advantage of professional development opportunities to stay ahead of the curve in your industry.

The Value of Improv in Public Speaking and Everyday Life!

As a speaker, I've gained valuable experience from taking improv classes. Improv isn't just about comedy – it can also help develop skills that are applicable to everyday life.

Improv's “Yes and…” model, a communication technique that encourages people to build on each other's ideas, is particularly helpful. This model is based on the belief that everyone has something valuable to contribute, and that the best ideas come from collaboration.

When using the “Yes, and…” model, people should avoid saying “no” or disagreeing with each other. Instead, they should focus on building on each other's ideas. This can be achieved by adding new information, offering suggestions, or simply agreeing with what the other person has said.

Here are some other ways improv can be beneficial:

Improv helps develop active listening skills, which are essential in any communication setting.

It also helps in developing empathy and understanding other people's perspectives. This is especially useful in situations where you need to negotiate with others or handle conflicts.

Improv can boost your confidence in public speaking, giving you the ability to express yourself clearly and persuasively in front of an audience.

It also helps in developing quick thinking skills, which can be useful in situations that require you to make quick decisions.

Improv can also reduce stress and anxiety by providing a fun and supportive environment where you can relax and be yourself.



While improv classes are typically associated with comedy schools, they can also be found in theater programs. Overall, improv has been a very positive experience for me, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to enhance their communication and speaking skills.

A Comprehensive Approach to Goal Setting

As a keynote speaker, I am honored to share my knowledge, experiences, and insights with large audiences. I aim to inspire and motivate people to take positive action. As an expert in my field, I strive to deliver informative and engaging speeches that connect with my audience on a personal level, leaving them feeling inspired and empowered.

While the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) goal-setting framework is widely used and easy to follow, it has certain limitations. These include setting unrealistic goals, inadequate planning, and setting too many goals, which can lead to feeling overwhelmed.

In my keynote presentations, I go beyond SMART Goals. I share my personal life experiences, challenges, and stories, as well as those of others, to emphasize the importance of setting goals. I provide additional resources to help individuals achieve their objectives, especially when they reach the limits of their SMART goals.

It is essential to recognize that achieving goals alone may not always be possible. Seeking support from resources such as books, workshops, or mentors can be beneficial. It is also important to acknowledge when external assistance is necessary and to ask for help without letting pride get in the way. If goals are not achievable or are no longer relevant, it's okay to stop or change them. We can learn from our mistakes and set better goals in the future.

In conclusion, I emphasize the significance of SMART Goals, discuss their limitations, and provide proactive steps to support individuals in achieving their objectives. Through this comprehensive approach to goal-setting, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively set and accomplish their goals.

Five reasons storytelling is important in speaking!

Storytelling is a valuable skill to have. It is a unique art form to master. We can use it in teaching, entertainment, speaking and etc.

Here are 5 reasons storytelling is important in speaking:

1. It can help you relate with your audience on a higher level.
When you tell a story, you are inviting your audience into your world and sharing your experiences with them. This can create a strong connection between you and your listeners.
For example, if you are giving a speech about the importance of education, you could tell a story about a time when you were struggling in school but eventually overcame your challenges. This would help your audience to relate to your experience and see the importance of education from your perspective.

2. It can help you make your points more memorable.
Stories are a powerful way to communicate information. When you tell a story, your audience is more likely to remember the points you are trying to make.
For example, if you are giving a speech about the dangers of smoking, you could tell a story about a friend or family member who has suffered from the effects of smoking. This would help your audience to remember the dangers of smoking and the importance of quitting.

3. It can help you build credence with your audience.
When you share your personal experiences, you are showing your audience that you are a real person with genuine feelings. This can help them trust you and what you have to say.
For example, if you are giving a speech about the importance of mental health, you could tell a story about a time when you struggled with your own mental health. This would help your audience to see that you are not just talking about something you have read about, but something that you have experienced firsthand.

4. It can help you make your presentations more engaging.
Presentations can be boring, but stories can make them more engaging. When you tell a story, your audience is more likely to pay attention and stay engaged.
For example, if you are giving a presentation about a new product, you could tell a story about how the product came to be or how it has helped someone. This would help your audience to stay interested in your presentation and remember the information you are sharing.

5. It can help you be a more persuasive speaker.
When you tell a story, you are using emotion to connect with your audience. This can make your arguments more persuasive.
For example, if you are giving a speech about voting, you could tell a story about a time when someone's vote made a difference. This would help your audience to see the importance of voting and why they should vote in the next election.

If you want to be a better speaker, learn how to tell stories. Stories are a powerful tool that can help you connect with your audience, make your points more memorable, build trust, and be more persuasive.

Do you have a comment about the Blogs?

Add it here using the form below: