Stepping Into the Spotlight

How I Manage Being Put on the Spot – and What I’m Learning Along the Way

Next week, I’ll be on stage at the SOLD OUT MD2MD Leaderfest conference in Reading, being put on the spot with the organisation's founder and business guru, Bob Bradley .

Usually, I’m all about pitching for Participation People — our work, mission, and impact. But this time, I’m facing a different challenge: pitching myself and my professional learning journey. It’s new, exciting, and, to be honest—it's absolutely terrifying! Imposter syndrome has officially kicked in, and I can see my people-pleasing base programming taking over.

But over the last few years, I have learnt a number of tools from subject-area experts, such as and from Elaine Powell Thought Disruptor?? Keynote and TEDx Speaker and Dominic Baliszewski and his team YOURS SINCERELY , to help me navigate the run-up, delivery on the day, and evaluation of the impact of being in the spotlight!

Here’s a little insight into how I manage the pressure, deal with the nerves, and ensure that I bring my best self to the stage - and be unapologetically me!

1. Know Your Audience—Always

There's no room for guessing games when you’re put on the spot. One of the first things I do when preparing is put myself in the audience’s shoes. Whether I’m talking about Gen Z as customers, employees, or agents of change, it all comes down to: What do they really need to hear from me?

For MD2MD, it’s a room full of business leaders who want to stay ahead of the curve, connect with young people, and ensure their businesses resonate with the next generation.

Unlike a scrutiny panel, they want to see me succeed and learn from my experience, expertise and insights. This makes my role very clear - help every delegate better understand Gen Z so they can apply that learning to their practice as business leaders.

My message needs to hit home—straightforward, no fluff.

2. Nerves Are Normal—Use Them!

Yep, I get nervous—every single time. But instead of trying to push those nerves aside, I’ve learned to use them. Acknowledge the nerves, take a few deep breaths, and lean into the moment. A pause isn’t a bad thing, and it gives you a second to gather your thoughts.

Authenticity and vulnerability are key for me, especially when speaking about Gen Z, who spot a fake a mile away. So, if I’m nervous, I’ll own it—because people connect with real, not perfect.

3. Rest and Recovery Aren’t Optional

Being “on” takes a lot out of you, and I’ve learned the hard way that if you don’t plan for rest, burnout is right around the corner.

After any big event or high-pressure situation, I schedule time for recovery—whether that’s a proper night off, a long walk with the dogs, or some time in my vegetable patch. It’s non-negotiable. It’s how I keep my energy for myself, my friends and family and the next BIG professional thing. You can’t pour from an empty cup!

4. Learning to Pitch Myself

While pitching Participation People comes naturally to me, talking about my own journey? That’s something I’m still working on. I’ve always been focused on how our work impacts young people and communities, but reflecting on my own growth as a leader? That’s a different game! But I’m getting better at it—sharing the things I’m learning, the mistakes I’ve made, and how I’m growing as a leader. It’s a muscle I’m building every day.

Looking Ahead

The part I’m most excited about at MD2MD? The afternoon session with my amazing co-facilitators, Yazz Hansford (17) and Cameron (21). Together, we’ll be exploring how businesses can really connect with Gen Z—whether as customers, employees, or change-makers. Co-production is at the heart of everything we do at Participation People, and it’s going to be an eye-opener for the audience to hear directly from young people themselves.

For me, this journey of pitching myself has been a reminder that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about constantly learning, evolving, and stepping out of your comfort zone (nerves and all!).