If you want to connect with a group of people, know what matters to them. Case in point ... As someone who works with many Christian people (and not being one myself), it was important for me to learn what Christians (in general) value. I asked my Christian friends, I considered Christian values (10 Commandments) etc. (Note: I did not make "Christian friends" for the sake of research. Rather, I asked those I was already in relationship with.) And in my work, I often encourage those wishing to work with Indigenous peoples to do the same thing. Many Indigenous people are Christian (thanks to colonization) but for those following traditional teachings, the 7 Grandfather Teachings is often considered our equivalent to the 10 Commandments and that is where I found today's revelation. One of the 7 Grandfather Teachings of the Anishinaabe peoples (Ojibwe) is Debwewin (Truth) defined as "speaking only to the extent you have lived or experienced". And today, I realized that is the foundation of a great speaker, the ones who speak "only to the extent they have lived or experienced". Those whose words are rooted in their work, their research, their lived experience resonate with audiences. They do not fear the Q&A because they know their stuff and if they don't know, if a question is out of their realm of experience, they say so, maintaining their authenticity. So to those just starting out (or those who have lost their way), go back to what you KNOW. As the elders say, "No story is more powerful than your own." Own it. Share it. Trust it in. You and it are needed. Live Debwewin (pronounced deb-way-win) Enjoy the day! Love ya! Sandi

As the year comes to a close, I want to express my sincere appreciation to our entire community. Reaching 900+ members is more than a number—it’s a reflection of trust, shared values, and collective effort. Each conversation, contribution, and moment of encouragement has helped make this community a place of growth and inspiration. Thank you for believing in the vision and for being part of something bigger than any one individual. As we celebrate Christmas and the festive season, I wish you joy, peace, and meaningful moments with loved ones. I’m deeply thankful for this community and excited about what lies ahead for us together. Here’s to an even brighter year ahead. As Christmas approaches, what’s one thing you’re feeling grateful for this year? Regards, 🎅

@Sheena LC Walker … I got it early!! Yay! @Sheena LC Walker

In November of 2024, I made the decision to join Inspiring Speakers. Skool was new to me. Courses in Skool were new to me but the one offered in Inspiring Speakers seemed to be SO on point with my career that I thought, why not? Why not give it a try? I came for the course. I stay for the people. Because the course is valuable (and please, do complete it) but it is such a small part of this network. This network is also this Community Page where people freely ask questions, post inspiration, and offer advice and guidance to fellow speakers. The network is also Inspiring Talks, an hour Zoom event every Wednesday where questions are answered in real time and the best conversations take place, not because they are scheduled but because amazing conversations ALWAYS happen when amazing people come together. So, even if you are a solopreneur or just starting out as a speaker, please hear me ... YOU ARE NOT ALONE, not if you are here. So ask your questions. Share your successes. Let us in on your dreams and goals. Here there is no competition (for we all have gifts to offer). Here there is just ... the best speakers community/network ever. Can't wait to interact with you! Love you! Sandi

The response to the win/moonshot thread was insane — thanks to everyone who jumped in. Time for part two. Complete this in one sentence: 2025 taught me ____. In 2026, I’m ready to _____. Example: 2025 taught me consistency beats intensity. In 2026, I’m ready to scale without burning out. Your turn — what's your? A big should to some of members who added their thoughts @Sandi Boucher @NtombikayiseM Hadebe @Sandra Valks @Dana S. Diaz @Jerry Fletcher @Gopika Ashok M @Jake Robbins @Carol Metz Murray @Deborah Northcutt Tagging some of our new members:- @Russ Hedge @Rob Thomas @Jonathan Backes @Marijke Gray @Mirna Mejia @Patrick Omalley @Taz Thornton @Dana S. Diaz