Ideas Worth Spreading
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TEDx Speaker Coach
Welcome to Straightup Communications, your local TEDx Speakers Coach.
I'm proud to have been a part of the TEDx community when I gave my 2017 TEDx Talk "The Gift of No" bringing my passion for bright ideas and innovative thinking to audiences everywhere.
Testimonials

Dr. Evisha Ford
Dream Curator & Equity Designer
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I wholeheartedly recommend Suzan’, she is an exceptional coach for anyone seeking to refine their public speaking skills and deliver impactful presentations. Working with her was an absolute game-changer for me as I prepared for my TEDx presentation.
Suzan’ possesses a rare combination of directness and kindness that immediately puts you at ease while pushing you to reach your full potential. Her insightful guidance not only helped me deliver a compelling narrative but also instilled in me the confidence to deliver it with authenticity and conviction.
One of the aspects I appreciated most about working with Suzan’ was her ability to provide timely and relevant feedback. Whether it was scheduling regular check-ins or promptly responding to my inquiries, she was always there to offer guidance and support from the time we began working together.
Thanks to Suzan’s expertise and dedication, I was able to deliver my ideas in a captivating manner that resonated more deeply with the audience. I am immensely grateful for the invaluable feedback that I received, and I endorse her to anyone looking to elevate their speaking abilities and make a lasting impact on their (TEDx) audience.

Rich Gilliam
Tech Lead
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I am thrilled to share my heartfelt testimonial regarding the remarkable coaching journey I experienced with Suzan Stroud in preparation for my TEDx talk at TEDx Mint Street. Suzan's impact on my journey was profound, and I am deeply grateful for her unwavering support and guidance.
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From the very onset of our journey, our initial coaching calls were moments of vulnerability and growth. Suzan created a safe space where I could share my ideas and aspirations for my TEDx talk.
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Throughout our collaboration, Suzan consistently challenged me to push beyond my perceived limitations. Her coaching provided encouragement and a bit of pushing me out of my comfort zone, inspiring me to strive for excellence in every aspect of my presentation. With each session, Suzan's unwavering belief in my potential became a guiding light.
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Suzan's feedback gave me more clarity in the midst of uncertainty. Her constructive criticism was always delivered with grace and compassion, empowering me to refine my message and amplify its impact. What truly set Suzan apart was her ability to infuse every interaction with positivity and encouragement. Her uplifting words served as a constant source of inspiration, reminding me of the power of authenticity and vulnerability in storytelling.
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As I reflect on the journey we embarked on together, I am filled with profound gratitude for Suzan's transformative guidance. Without her unwavering support, I truly believe that my TEDx talk would not have resonated with the same depth and authenticity.
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I wholeheartedly endorse Suzan Stroud to anyone seeking to elevate their speaking skills andcraft compelling narratives. Her unique blend of expertise, empathy, and encouragement makesher an invaluable asset to anyone striving to make a meaningful impact through public speaking.
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Thank you, Suzan, for believing in me and for helping me unearth the depths of my voice. Your coaching has been a gift beyond measure, and I am forever grateful for what you brought out of
me.
Rich “Richnovated” Gilliam

Khanyisa Mnyaka
Self Love Coach
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My name is Kanisha and I'm a 2024 TEDx speaker. I want to take a moment to give Suzan’ her flowers. First of all, to Suzan’ I want to thank her for working with me. That experience that I had with my first TEDx talk that took place February 2024 in Charlotte North Carolina was so amazing. Part of the reason it was so amazing is because I was working with Suzan’. She made this entire process so easy. Her approach to the work was with such kindness and compassionate generosity. These past few months building up to the TEDx talk she was so present, and I would highly recommend Suzan’ as a TEDx coach. I feel like any speaker would be incredibly lucky to learn from her, to grow with her, and to really craft their story that would blend beautifully with the audiences.

Tamara Park
Chief Storytelling Officer
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Suzan has an uncanny power to unlock the message that lives inside of you. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with Suzan on my TEDx Talk. Her sturdy support and insightful questions helped me show up with greater clarity and confidence. She enabled me to be more me because of her skillful guidance and deep belief in what I had to offer. If you have a message inside, you and desire to poignantly share it with the world. I highly recommend working with Suzan.
Are You Ready To Start Your Journey?
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HOW TO FIND A LOCAL TEDx EVENT
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NAVIGATING THE APPLICATION AND AUDITION PROCESS
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WHY IS A TEDx TALK DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER TALK