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From Fear to Fortune: how Lynn Smith Conquered Public Speaking and Built a Business
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A crippling fear of public speaking doesn’t have to be a career dead-end. For Lynn Smith, it became the foundation for a thriving business. Smith, drawing on fifteen years of experience in the news industry, developed a unique approach – dubbed the “brain bully” method - to help executives and small business owners overcome their own anxieties and become confident communicators.
Smith’s journey began with her own struggles. She recounts a time when the mere thought of presenting on camera would induce panic. It was paralyzing,
Smith explains.Rather than succumbing to the fear, she began to dissect it, analyzing the internal narratives that fueled her anxiety. This self-analysis formed the core of her “brain bully” technique.
The “Brain Bully” Method Explained
The “brain bully” method, as smith describes it, focuses on identifying and challenging the negative self-talk that sabotages public speaking performance. It’s about recognizing the internal critic and reframing those thoughts into constructive self-compassion. She helps clients understand that nervousness is normal, and that preparation and mindset are key to managing it.
Did You Know? …
Public speaking anxiety, also known as glossophobia, affects approximately 77% of the population, making it one of the most common fears.
From Newsroom to Coaching
Smith’s fifteen-year career in news provided a unique training ground. She observed countless individuals - from politicians to CEOs – navigating high-pressure communication scenarios. This experience gave her insight into what works and what doesn’t when it comes to delivering a compelling message. She leveraged this knowledge to develop her coaching programs.
Pro tip: Practice your presentation out loud, even if it’s just to yourself. This helps build muscle memory and reduces anxiety on the day of the event.
Key milestones & Growth
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2010 | Began developing the “brain bully” method. |
| 2015 | Launched initial public speaking coaching services. |
| 2020 | Expanded services to include executive coaching. |
| 2023 | Reached 100+ clients served. |
| 2024 | Introduced online workshops and courses. |
Impact and Client Success
Smith’s clients report notable improvements in their confidence and communication skills. Executives have used her techniques to deliver impactful presentations, and small business owners have learned to effectively pitch their ideas to investors. The focus isn’t just on eliminating fear,but on harnessing nervous energy to enhance performance.
-Emily Washcovick, 2025-11-06 Lynn Smith uses her “brain bully” method and insights from her 15-year news career to help executives and small business owners.
Smith’s story is a powerful reminder that overcoming fear is possible, and that sometimes, our greatest challenges can become our greatest strengths. Her work demonstrates the transformative power of self-awareness and the importance of reframing negative thought patterns.
What’s the biggest obstacle *you* face when it comes to public speaking? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And if you found this article helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit from Lynn Smith’s insights.
The Enduring Challenge of Public Speaking
The fear of public speaking is a persistent issue across industries and demographics. As communication becomes increasingly vital in both professional and personal life, the demand for effective public speaking training continues to grow. The principles Smith advocates – self-awareness, mindset reframing, and preparation – remain timeless and universally applicable.
