When I first realized I wanted to share the Be Who You Came To Be message, I had no idea how to get started.
How do you get into the speaking business? I knew I needed a video. I knew I needed a website. But both of those things seemed to depend on someone hiring me first. And how was anyone going to hire me if I didn’t have the materials to show them what I could do?
It was my very own chicken and the egg dilemma... which comes first lol.
I felt stuck in that loop ... until my friend and mentor, Dan Schoepf, encouraged me to stop waiting for someone else to open the door and create my own opportunity.
So I decided ... yes... I would be brave enough to put on my own event.
People questioned me.
Some didn’t believe in me.
I was even told I was too ordinary to become a keynote speaker ...and that launching a business like this would be very challenging and hard to make profitable.
But Dan, the ultimate wingman, said, “Renze, we got this.” He said he would do the event with me - so I didn't have to go at it alone. It was our Maverick-and-Iceman moment. We created the event, captured the video, and I took that first bold step. We called the event “Live With Purpose” and (almost) sold out the room.
Here's the video below that got me started - it wasn't flashy - there was no sound lol - but it was enough social proof for me to keep taking imperfect steps. AND I got my first paid speaking gig from this event. (good news is i got some better footage from that event of me actually speaking lol)
Tuesday Tip: Don’t wait for someone else to see your potential before you take a step toward it. Believe in yourself beyond reason, and take the first imperfect step.
You may be surprised by how many people are ready to support you and want to see you win. That’s one of the beautiful things about a butterfly goal: it gives you a reason to begin and lets other people come alongside you.
Flash forward ten years, and I’m doing it again. I’m creating a women’s event in Nashville, and yes, I’m doing it scared. I’m still finalizing the details, but I know I want to bring together just 25 women for a meaningful mix of growth, connection, celebration, and fun.
If you’d like to be among the first to hear the details and have the chance to claim one of the 25 spots, add your name here:
Here’s to taking the step before you feel completely ready.
And Dan, you can be my wingman anytime.
Love will guide you,
