From Baseball to the Big Stage: Overcoming Jitters to Deliver My Biggest Keynote Yet!
January 8, 2024
Whooo, y’all—I haven’t had jitters like this since my college baseball days at the University of Maryland! 🐢⚾ But let me tell you, those “Imposter Syndrome” voices? Oh, they were LOUD. 💭 I mean, LOUD. Yet here I am, standing on the other side of the largest sales speaking engagement of my career—serving as the Closing Keynote for the incredible National Sales Meeting of HMH (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt • NWEA • Heinemann). 📈 And wow, what a journey it’s been.
The Weight of the Moment
It’s humbling to think that the same kid who once gripped a baseball bat with sweaty palms now stands on stages gripping microphones with a purpose. This wasn’t just any stage—it was THE stage, speaking to sales professionals and leaders who are stepping boldly into a new era of greatness. Did the nerves creep in? You bet they did. But nerves are just a sign that you care deeply about the moment, right? 🙌🏾
A Village Made It Possible
Here’s the truth: none of this happens alone. I owe so much to the people who have stood beside me, lifted me up, and believed in me when I had those “C’mon Cletus!” moments of doubt. Let me give some well-deserved shoutouts to my Team of Champions:
Family First: Geni Long and Momma Long, your love and unwavering support fuel everything I do. 💝
Coaches Extraordinaire: Becca Egger & Kristin Frade, you kept me focused, prepared, and ready to deliver my best. 🎯
Communities that Inspire: From the National Speakers Association (shoutout to the Carolinas Chapter!) to my amazing Speaker Academy Alums, you all bring out the best in me. You know who you are—Tara Brown, Bill Cates, Kate O’Neill, Mark Hunter, and so many others—thank you for pushing me to grow.
Incredible Partners: Norman Merrifield, Dr. Darren K., and the team at 808Education—your support with instructional design and presentation prep was a game-changer. And Arel Moodie, Talkadot is next-level for collecting feedback and sharing goodies! 💎
Let’s not forget my extended circle—friends, mentors, Friday Happy Hour Crew, and the countless others who sent encouragement my way. Each one of you is a vital part of my journey. 🫶🏾
HMH: A Client That Inspires Greatness
Partnering with HMH has been nothing short of extraordinary. This team is stepping boldly into a new era of growth and greatness, and I’m honored to have played a small part in that transformation. 🚀 To the leadership team and every individual who brought their energy, trust, and commitment to this event: thank you for welcoming me and allowing me to share my message.
Lessons from the Stage: Jitters and Joy
Standing on that stage reminded me of a simple truth: growth happens outside your comfort zone. Yes, the jitters were there. Yes, the “Imposter Syndrome” whispers tried to take the mic. But guess what? I leaned into the discomfort, trusted the preparation, and delivered with my whole heart. And that’s the message I want to leave with you:
Preparation is key: Whether it’s baseball, business, or public speaking, the work you do behind the scenes sets the stage for your success.
Lean on your village: Don’t go it alone. Surround yourself with people who will challenge you, cheer for you, and help you rise.
Embrace the jitters: They’re not a sign of weakness—they’re a sign that you’re stepping into greatness.
What’s Next?
The journey doesn’t stop here! Next up: heading to Wilmington, NC, for the National Speakers Academy Carolinas Chapter ‘Fearlessly Clear’ Goal-Setting Retreat led by the fearless Sarah Glova. 🎤 I’m ready to set BIG goals for the future and help others do the same.
Your Move
So, what’s making YOU jittery right now? Whatever it is, remember this: those butterflies mean you’re on the edge of something incredible. Don’t back down. Step up, swing for the fences, and bring your A-game. You’ve got greatness inside you—it’s time to unleash it.
