First hand accounts of people just like you, who were able to progress from terrified to confident with a consistent effort in manageable steps.
The speech went really well (many people complimented me that it was the best of the night)! A million thanks to you both - I don't think I would've have been as comfortable as I felt up there without having all the exposure I did in class. Even though I felt super anxious right before, I was calm and collected on stage and felt at ease. I could NOT have done this speech without going to class. It's been so invaluable.
Sheila Shane - August 2017
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I just wanted to thank you for all of the work that you did. I went from panicking and wanting to desperately escape the room on the first day, to teaching a class. Not only that, I got the highest score in the program. One of the most common comments was that I have a very natural, pleasing rapport with students (this usually takes a lot of experience to attain). This would never, ever have happened without your class. I have a career because of you.
Tom Richards - August 2017
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Our event was spectacular. My speech went without a hitch. Every Single friend of mine commented on my massive improvement. Thank you and Charles.
Naomi Reed - August 2017
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I was able to say what I needed to say about the data and even get audience engagement! It was a very new experience, being able to stand there and talk, and not be afraid of all these people staring back at me.
Nathan Holmes - August 2017
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Thank you for the wonderful work you're doing, you have helped me tremendously and I can't thank you enough... I feel much confident in my abilities to speak in public.
Mara Oliveras
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I think I never get enough now of public speaking and always looking into new things. I also just signed up for storytelling classes starting next month as I want to learn the art and structure of delivering great speeches with story to inspire and motivate. Most people would stop there and do it as a hobby but I think I want more. I even seriously started thinking about enrolling into certified coach program and become executive/leadership or life coach. Told you, I'm never getting enough of it, lol. I honestly think this would not be even possible without first starting your classes. I learned a ton, I still do my recorded little speeches on my iPhone every morning (topics given by my wife). I don't know where all this stuff is going to take me, but I will always remember where I started.. that is with you and your classes. Thank you again!!! Regards to Kyra!
Klaus Vladeski - July 2017
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Thank you for all your support. I definitely notice a change. One more year with these classes and I would have run for president
Vanna Peters - July 2016
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Thank you for the great teaching. Thanks to you, I am presenting at my company at least twice a month, and my public speaking skill set has helped me in looking for a new career.
Olivia Kris - June 2016
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I wanted to let you know that a month ago I addressed ~120, people in New England!! It went very, well thanks to your coaching!! Your course has been a Godsend.
Nancy Emmery - June 2016
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Thank you very much for your kind advice and instruction as you helped me prepare for my panel discussion. I did my best to articulate my words carefully over the last week or so, and slowed my presentation down so everyone could understand. The panel discussion, held last night at NYU, was a great success, with a better than expected turnout and a very engaged audience (it was also televised on a Greek channel). Thank you again for everything.
Peter Sabin - June 2016
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I gave a talk at the New York Academy of Medicine. Again, thank you and Charles for all your help. I could have never given a talk like this 6 months ago. I'll be giving another talk at the Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) on Sunday June 5th.
D.J. Randall - June 2016
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The systematic approach transforms you from a panicked, dry throated, heart racing, mute, wanna-be public speaker into a comfortable, confident, and competent public communicator with normal vital signs is an ABSOLUTE game changer. The hardest part is getting to the first class. After that, it is one manageable step after another.
R. Katz, MD - January 2016
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Charles and Kyra, The speech went great! I just wanted to thank you for your help and support over the past few months. I would not have been able to give the speech last night without it.
Margie Maris - December 11, 2015
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I wanted to inform you that my presentation and workshop was a complete success. I feel like a whole new woman, new found confidence and ready to take on the world. But most of all super excited about this new journey that I am currently undertaking and I honestly couldn't have gotten here without your assistance, thank you for all that you do to support us in our process to success.
Linda Cain - December 7, 2015
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Charles and Kyra, The speech went great! I just wanted to thank you for your help and support over the past few months. I would not have been able to give the speech last night without it.
Beverly Margot - November 17, 2015
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Charles, My father passed away Monday and the funeral was yesterday. I was asked to say a few words. There were many things I wanted to relate about my father, however, there were over 20 people in attendance. The thought of it was terrifying. When the time came I was able to stand up there and share what I wanted to. I made people laugh and cry with the stories I told. All this would not have been possible without your class to give me the confidence. Thank you.
Lena Renn - October 7, 2015
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Charles, Thanks so much. Got your message a few minutes before I went on, and that was a real help. The beginning was a little scarier and bumpier than I'd hoped, but I recovered well in between speakers, and felt very confident by the end.
Kyra Kaplan - October 5, 2015
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First off I want to thank you for your coaching and training so far. My training class in India was a huge success. I was able to speak with confidence in front of 30-40 people each time. I was invited as a guest speaker to Women in Technology team in our company with 1 day notice. I spoke for about 40 minutes to 30 young colleagues about what I learned in my career with a few lines of notes.
Hannah Young - September 9, 2015
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The speech went very well. It was wayy easier in the actual setting, but I can't tell you how much the classes helped. Thanks very much.
Drake Gerard - September 1, 2015
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Charles, My wedding toast went amazingly well. Only now I am wishing it had been longer. Can you believe that? Thank you! Ps. See you in class soon.
Bryan Endan - September 1, 2015
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Hi Charles Hope all is well. It's been awhile since I took your class but the results have proven invaluable. Since I've taken your class, I've recommended a few colleagues and couldn't be anymore grateful for how you've boosted my confidence and catapulted my career trajectory. I just completed my mid year assessment at work and the following is some feedback I received, which I can accredit to you: "Davis's presence in meetings is probably one of his best assets. It is one thing to be prepared for a meeting, and it's quite another to command the respect of an audience through one's understanding of the material. When Davis speaks in meetings, his voice is one of sheer confidence. He is unwavering in his words and will always admit when he lacks certain information." Thank you again!
Davis Morrel - August 25, 2015
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Charles, I thought you'd like to know that the speech was a great success. I received many compliments, not only from family but from random guests, throughout the evening and into the next day. I appreciate all of your help in this.
Jay Nathens - June 20, 2015
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Dear Charles and Kyra, I did my first speech today in a large auditorium to an audience of 43 people at my hospital about weight loss surgery. I volunteered to speak at our monthly weight loss surgery seminar. I felt so good and relaxed. It was empowering and fantastic! And of course, I had tons of applause and questions in the end vs someone who spoke before me. That's when I knew I rocked that stage!:) Thank you very much for getting me to this level! Six months ago I would not have done it even at a gun point. I can't wait to learn more!
Vic Krassner - June 2, 2015
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Dear Charles & Kyra, I just want to let you both know that the work you are doing is so amazing and life altering. I am so happy I found this class, and these amazing people who constantly inspire me every week that I have the power inside to overcome my fears and face them. Anxiety is an awful feeling and it's good to know and share with people who can understand that fear and see them constantly work through it and become more courageous.
Daphne Hare - May 4, 2015
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At yesterday's preso, for the first time I actually felt on my game. This voice and this confidence emanated out of me! I had extensive notes, but only looked at them to double-check a number or two. I actually remembered most of the few important data points and didn't have to check. Because I was so relaxed, the preso actually became more of a conversation and for the first time I felt certain that I am improving. Thank you for helping me.
Kate Owens - April 19, 2015
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Charles, You made such a tremendous difference in my life and I can't even begin to thank you. With the tools you gave me and your guidance and patience I have been transformed into the bold person I always wanted to be (and knew I was). The anxiety around meeting new people and interacting with groups of people is completely gone and all of the walls I had put up have been torn down. You are amazing and I appreciate you and all you do so very much!
Nancy Givens - April 11, 2015
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Charles,I cannot thank you enough for all of your last minute help. Presentation went really well...I appreciate all of your pointers from speaking up, to being the ALPHA in the room down to what to eat!
Nick Shaw - March 20, 2015
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I did a reading a couple weeks ago and actually enjoyed it. That wouldn't have been without those classes I attended. One more in a week. Doing lots of radio, which I did a few years ago for the first book but needed to get comfortable with again (of course, very different from public speaking
Miles - February 19, 2015
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I want to let you know that the panel discussion I led back in October was a big success. Great turnout, excellent discussion, and I was able to speak and introduce everyone without a problem. Thank you Charles!
TJ Payne - February 15, 2015
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I started medical school in early August and we have been moving at 100mph ever since! The sessions I attended have been invaluable already. I managed to get through my med school orientation, which involved a little introduction speech (in front of the entire class) and a lot of icebreakers that I would have never never imagined getting through before. It wasn't easy, but manageable.
Jason Banks - September 12, 2014
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I wanted to tell you that the presentation today went really good. I was not even very anxious and people said good things about the way I presented. Thank you so much for your tips. Helped a lot!
Gary Vyras - July 17, 2014
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I've found the class to be highly beneficial. For example, in the last couple of months, I've been able to facilitate and present in senior executive meetings with lower levels of anxiety than before.
Russel Sury - July 14, 2014
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I did speak on the panel - the reason I started your class - and it went pretty well. Thanks for your help getting me to that point.
Corey Wells - June 12, 2014
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I've found the class to be highly beneficial (for example, in the last couple of months, I've been able to facilitate and present in senior executive meetings with lower levels of anxiety than before).
Burt Surris - July 1, 2014
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I wanted to express my thanks to you for the public speaking classes. I can honestly say going through the classes was one of the highlights of my 2-year stay in New York and one of the most important professional development efforts I undertook. I greatly appreciate your coaching over the past year.
Allen Santos - April 4, 2014
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Thanks so much for your program. It was super helpful. When I started, the idea of agreeing to do even the most informal, low-pressure public speaking was terrifying. You helped me get over the first big hurdle toward imagining the possibility of being able to get better. I just gave a fairly formal presentation last month about an oral history project I did. It went well. It was a huge deal for me, and the result of lots of work over a few years. Thanks so much for your part in that process. Best,
Rona Evans - March 12, 2014
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It wasn't the Gettysburg Address and I was definitely very nervous, but I managed to overcome it and even eventually hit a "comfortable" groove and got through it. There were 160 people staring back at me!! Actually far more than I anticipated and by far the most demanding setting that really tested my resolve. It's hard to remember where I was 5 months ago, but being able to fight through that level of nerves is no doubt a result of my in class training. I was better equipped today because of the class there is no doubt. And in the end-my boss told me I did a great job after, so that's a win.
Steve Zales - February 18, 2014
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Im emailing from Cancun - my wedding speech went amazingly well. There were about 75 people and I trimmed it down to about 7 mins. I had my regular anticipatory anxiety prior to the speech as I had to wait until after dinner...but once I began the speech it all flowed from there. People came up to me afterwards and told me they loved the speech. Without the class and your encouragement this would have not been possible. I avoided things like this throughout my life but now I know I can do it. Thank you and look forward to the next milestone.
Robert Degris - November 26, 2013
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The work I did in your class seems to have had long-lasting positive lasting effects -- I'm now able to get through meetings at work and the day-to-day with minimal discomfort. That is really incredible, considering how absolutely paralyzed I was by anxiety just a year ago.
Lora Bine - June 2, 2013
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Hi Charles, I'm not sure if you hear this enough, but I just wanted to tell you thanks for all your help and continued support in this class. Tonight I can say I've felt the most comfortable ever in your class to date. Even though there is much work to be done, I can appreciate the large amount of progress I feel I have made. Thanks again,
Steve Henry – April 22, 2013
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Charles I did it. Thanks so much for your help! My teacher said my presentation was one of the best! Thanks again!
K. Sam – April 4, 2013
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I want to thank you for this course. I can feel a marked improvement in my communicating ability in front of a group of people already, and it has only been a few weeks since I started the program.
S. Arthur - April 15, 2013
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I am proud to tell you that since our last class, I have completed 3 presentations successfully! Thank You!
Maria Garte - December 7, 2012
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I found the class to be very helpful. As I attended classes, my comfort level in front of the class began to grow. I used the class as a springboard to gain the confidence to volunteer myself for a new instructor position at my work. While I'm still a tad nervous before each presentation, I have gotten to the point, where I can comfortably present in front of a group. Thanks again!
Owen Allan – October 5, 2012
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I was at a conference where I had to speak on a panel. Though pretty nervous waiting for my turn (a 6?), I did just fine when I got up to speak (in fact, people loved the content I shared). And then I am happy to say that I pretty much nailed the keynote Saturday. By "nailed" I mean I simply mean I was able to control my anxiety so I could deliver a clear and interesting talk to the audience. I felt comfortable and articulate up there because I really did use the techniques to manage my anticipatory anxiety. Thank you for all your help, Charles. I feel like I am at least back in the saddle now.
T. Lorre – May 28, 2012
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Charles, I hope all is well with you. I just wanted to let you know that we had our annual budget meeting and I had to present to a group that included 2 presidents and several other VP’s of different divisions. In years past I would be a mess for a month ahead of time worrying. This year I knocked it out of the ballpark. With the help and advice you and the class gave me. I was able to manage the anticipatory anxiety and focus during the meeting. I can’t thank you enough for helping me regain my confidence. Even though it’s been a while since I have been in the class it still stays with me. All my best,
D. Dan May 18, 2012
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I have fond memories of your classes and continue to use what you taught me. Gave a retirement toast last week and it went well. Wishing you the best in the important work you do.
Dick Concanon - Feb 8, 2012
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I just wanted to let you know my presentation went great on Friday. It was my first presentation with other lawyers in the audience----which has always been the greatest source of anxiety for me. I had no problems at all. Thank you so much! Your class exceeded all expectations.
J. Ann - December 23, 2011
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My perceptions of my skills is really starting to change for the better with each interaction, albeit with some minor setbacks along the way . I am focusing on the positives by managing my expectations of myself. I am really seeing results since I've started your class during the beginning of this year. Thank you for all your guidance.
F. Yi - December 20, 2011
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My presentation went pretty well. I felt very calm and pretty confident, and I was not reading from the paper! Thank you.
Olga Zadin - December 13, 2011
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Made it through with flying colors! Thx so much.... Next up, the Rachel Ray Show!
B. Reyes November 11, 2011
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I cannot thank you enough for working with me to establish a base of comfort in public speaking. Grad school is more or less all public speaking! I am teaching the two classes and actually had to do a 15-minute research presentation today that went pretty well. It's getting easier and easier (of course, with the expected set-backs here and there). I have a tiny notebook with the tips from your handbook that I review every AM before classes. Wishing you all the best. Thank you a million again.
Sara Rabinov – November 8, 2011
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I just wanted to thank you for the group sessions. I have noticed a remarkable improvement in college. I’ve joined three clubs and got a part time job as caller. The calling job was a challenge because I’ve got to cold call people and ask them for donations but it certainly took my phone anxiety down a notch. Without your group sessions I may very well have been exactly where I was last year. So thank you again for all the help.
J. Sinclare – October 11, 2011
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The group presentation/discussion went really well!!! I'm very happy! My teacher said we did a great job! Thanks a lot!!! I'll see u soon.
K. Jimenez - September 28, 2011
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Just had 3 different presentations in one day to audiences of over 200 people that went great. Main difference versus the past was I had an excited anticipation versus a nervous anticipation. Used a lot of what you taught me.
H. Scott - September 27, 2011
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Charles, last night I read my work to a room packed of writers and editors. I felt fine and when I was done, everyone told me they loved it. I'm sure you know how amazing it feels to overcome this thing after so long. Before I took your class, I would have refused to even try, but now I know I can do it. Thank you!
AS - July 31, 2011
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I've been telling everyone about what a life changer the class is for me. i feel like you're the only one who "gets it", i can't tell you how grateful i am to have found your class.
Jessica Slawson - July 27, 2011
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I wanted to thank you for doing an amazing job at running the classes and really making me feel welcome and comfortable. Two years ago the thought of being in an acting class overwhelmed me so much that I couldn’t even enter the building where the classes took place. Taking your classes showed me how far I’ve come in getting my anxiety under control. Thank god in your classes I was surrounded by positive people because this positive experience has encourage me to continue taking acting classes in the future when my work schedule is in order. Keep up the good work and thank you for helping me get one step closer to feeling confident when speaking and performing in front of others.
Alesha Thomas May 24, 2011
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Hey! So I gave a speech to about 150 people at my wedding party this past weekend and it went so very well. People were actually coming up afterward to say how good it was. Who would have thought?! Thank you- so happy with the progress I've made over the past year- you're great at what you do.
K. Shayna 05-10-11
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I gave my best man speech at the wedding and it couldn't have gone better. People were actually walking up to me following it and telling me how great of a job I did.
Patrick Heenon 04-27-11
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Yesterday’s hair show went very well... I still have much work to do, but the anxiety level was very, very low, not even a thought.
B. Reyes 03-29-11
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By the way, you are NOT going to believe this, but I just got back from doing a Q and A session in front of 150+ people at this NYU alumni event!! I wasn't as nervous as I thought I would be (though I did notice my hands shaking every time I leaned down to pick up my cup of water), and it went off very smoothly. I found myself thinking back on all of the things I've learned in this class...so THANK YOU!!
C. Lauren 04-19-11
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Charles, thank you! It means a lot! Also I want to say that I was only able to step into that opportunity because of the way I have seen myself progress in the last 3 sessions. And thanks to you, the little things you say in class are like 'Gold' - I get lot of value when you reiterate each class that you're not here to impress anyone or give a scintillating performance, or make anyone laugh! And that it's totally ok to be anxious, and to take little manageable steps. It's extremely reinforcing each class I hear you say that, and so even though I maybe a bit anxious at times it gives me' the courage to easily speak with large groups of people. Thank you again!
D Raj 03/10/11
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Hi Charles, I just wanted to say thank you for suggesting the I attend the Tuesday meeting. I really think it was helpful. The presentation went well(ish). I didn't fall on my face, vomit, or faint. I was certainly nervous but tried to take deep breaths and focus on the material. I think that helped. Thanks again.
S. Ramos 02/22/11
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Charles, thanks for your encouragement last week for the two 'reception/thank you speeches' I had to do...it all went fine. There was a connection with the audience, folks seemed to react to it in a sympathetic way, and even got a few laughs.
Dee B. 01-31-11
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The wedding was a blast and my best man's speech went better than I could have ever imagined! I couldn't have done it without you and the wonderful support of the group...many thanks for your advice and teachings over the years.
Cliff Stiener 12-22-10
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I gave my speech today in front of 700 people and I nailed it. I can't thank you enough. Never could have done it without going to your classes.
Dick Concannon 12-04-10
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Wanted to give you an update on my presentation today. It went really well and I took your advice of really selling the information to the audience. I just felt really comfortable up there, because of all the repeated exposures during class! This class has helped me tremendously!
K. Lauren 11-23-10
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Deciding to face the issue was a difficult decision but a life changing experience. My fears went right down to my stomach and many sleepless nights. During the past couple years I have surprised myself as I have given many Compliance presentations to groups as large as 60 (A big step as a group of three seemed impossible.) Thank you for all your support you have provided me. I hope the program is still giving you the same satisfaction.
T. Timothy 10-20-10
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Charles, Thanks for your help and guidance. My presentation went really well and I could not have done it without you. I am actually looking forward to my next presentation. All the best,
Shlomo Nosco 10-12-10
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With all the preparation and a couple of practice runs that morning I felt absolutely no anxiety on the run up to delivering my best man’s speech to 200 folks. It went off without a hitch and the compliments flowed. Even the other speakers said that I had shown them up. Quite amazing. Thank you. All the hard work paid off. I could not have done it and been able to enjoy the evening so much without the classes and your help. Now lets take it to the next level. All the best,
Will Watson 07-13-10
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Hi Charles - my meeting this morning went really well. I was very anxious all morning but once I started speaking I was totally fine. Thank you for your help getting me through this one!
M. Diana 08-05-10
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I DID IT ... with flying colors!!!!! My ikebana demonstration (5 arrangements) took place Saturday from 1:30 to 2:30PM in front of an audience of 65 people. Thank you so much for all your support. I owe you so much!!! I even smiled during the demo!
Ann Lise 08-01-10
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Hey, Charles, While doing this psychiatry elective in Halifax, Nova Scotia, I volunteered to do a "Lunch and Learn" presentation to a group of psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers. Volunteering to do a presentation on my volition is something I would have never done before your class....presentations were typically something done under extreme necessity. I prepared a power point presentation on "Commonly Abused Legal Substances" given to a room of about 17 health professionals....(a tough crowd to impress when doing medical presentations)...and I nailed it. It went great. All the skills I learned in your class were second nature, and it all just clicked. Thanks for all your help in my ongoing journey towards becoming a better public speaker.
Roshan Hegde 07-25-10
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Charles, I've been meaning to tell you that the Best Man speech went very well and I thoroughly enjoyed the wedding! Thank you for your help and I am glad I am taking the course.
K.Brit 07-20-10
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I'm now on the lecture circuit NY, Boston and Toronto (yesterday) so far. All went well.
G. Carles 06-28-10
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I went to psychiatrists, hypno-therapists, as well as other group therapies and none of them had an effective approach to dealing with anxiety and public speaking. When I started the group sessions with your classes, I experienced lasting changes in my perception and ability to interact with other people comfortably in group settings. It was the whole process of gradual exposure that put me at ease and softened my anxieties a great deal. I am forever grateful that I have stumbled upon these classes and owe great thanks to you Charles. Your patience, kindness, and concern have also made the classes an enjoyable experience and it was always a pleasure to be there
Shar Ram
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The task ahead seemed insurmountable. I am a 23 year old graduate student who was to teach English 220 to a group of 30 undergraduate students. This would require intelligence, poise, the ability to speak in public, and a brand-new wardrobe. I was horrified. I enrolled in the workshop, hoping to cure my paralyzing fear of public speaking. As the time drew closer, I enjoyed daily panic attacks and hard-core insomnia. I practiced in four different groups, and though, when I went in for my first class, I was trembling with trepidation, the experience that I had gained from groups sustained me and I survived. I write this now in my brand-new office, a few hours after my third class.
The workshop may not make public speaking easy, but it makes it possible.
Marina Robinovich
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I'd like to thank you for all that you have done for me up this point in our class. I never thought I would be able to speak in front of a group again, and with your compassionate guidance, I am gaining confidence in my ability to do just that. It was a wonderful practice for me last night on so many levels. In particular, waiting until the end to take my turn. It's amazing how the things we think are so challenging, are just what the doctor ordered.
Maureen Munroe
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It started like an airplane...shaky at first rumbling down the runway (for about a minute) as I worked to gain composure. During the first minute, I wasn't sure if I would crash or fly until I got just a little air under my tires and lifted of the ground just ever so slightly. Once I realized I was within grasp of control (a few more minutes of talking), the anxiety began to fade as I realized I knew the material well due to practicing. As the anxiety began to lift, I actually took off, soared and enjoyed myself. It was the presentation I always wanted to give!! Thank you Charles!!!!!
Greg Roberts
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Hi Charles - My best man speech on Sunday went over really well. I'll fill you in on all the details at the next session. Thanks for all your help!
Frank Gregory
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By the way, I gave my presentation at work Friday and it went great. I spoke to a room full of about 25 people and wasn't nervous at all! I couldn't have even imagined doing that a year ago. My boss told me twice that I did a great job. You have worked a miracle -- thanks so much.
D. A.