Speaking My Truth: How the Leadr.co Program Helped Me Share My Voice with the World

Finding the Courage to Use My Voice

From a young age, I always had a desire to use my voice, to be heard, to share, to connect. But for many years, I lacked the courage to truly do so. Life gave me small invitations to speak, whether it was as a media spokesperson, keynote speaker, or on behalf of a brand, and I always lit up when I was on stage. But deep down, I knew I had a more personal, more meaningful message to share. One that came not from a brand or a professional obligation, but from me, from my journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation.

And that’s what led me to TEDx. I saw the platform as a way to finally share that authentic message, one that was rooted in vulnerability, truth, and the idea that our voices matter not because they sound perfect, but because they deserve to be heard.

Turning a Dream into Reality

Getting on a TEDx stage had long been a bucket-list item for me. But, like so many dreams, it always felt a bit far-fetched. Still, something inside me kept nudging, Why not you? So I started researching how people actually land a TEDx talk, and that’s when I found the Leadr.co program.

I was instantly drawn to Taylor’s background and energy. He struck me as someone who was both credible and deeply committed to helping others succeed. I must’ve gone back and forth for almost a year, debating whether I should do it. I probably talked myself into it and out of it at least six times. But then, after chatting with fellow coaches and speakers who vouched for the program’s methodical and supportive structure, I made the leap.

A Process Built on Support, Strategy, and Commitment

From the start, I loved that this wasn’t just some pre-recorded online course. Taylor was live on the calls, present and fully engaged. His team was top-notch, and I always felt supported. They didn’t just throw a bunch of materials at us, they guided us through the process.

That said, it was a process. The application work is real. You have to be prepared to put in the time and effort, from tailoring each application to submitting dozens of them. I remember giving myself daily application goals. I wanted it badly enough to stay consistent, and in the end, I submitted over 70 applications. It’s no exaggeration to say that TEDx doesn’t just land in your lap. You have to go get it.

One thing I appreciated about the program is how thorough and strategic it is. Leadr.co gives you the tools and guidance to make each application compelling and targeted. And through the community, I got to meet other amazing speakers, including one or two locally, which meant we could support each other in real time, review each other’s applications, and keep each other accountable.

My Non-Traditional TEDx Experience

Unlike some others in the program, my TEDx experience was a little different. I was invited to submit a pre-recorded talk instead of speaking live on a red-dot stage. At first, I’ll admit, I was a bit disappointed. I had envisioned myself walking out under the lights, in front of an audience.

But then I reminded myself: the message is what matters, not the delivery format. And at the end of the day, my talk landed on the same TEDx YouTube channel as every other one. Seeing my video uploaded, complete with the TEDx logo and my name, it was surreal. A full-circle moment that validated everything I had worked for.

The Lasting Value and What Comes Next

The Leadr.co program isn’t just a one-and-done experience. Even now, I know I can log back in anytime, access the training, view the database of upcoming TEDx events, and apply again if I want to do another talk. It’s a lifelong resource, and that’s something I genuinely appreciate.

More than the credibility boost or the “feather in the cap,” doing a TEDx talk has been a deeply personal victory. It affirmed that I could speak my truth, and that truth had value. It’s also given me an extra layer of confidence when pitching speaking engagements. People hear “TEDx” and it elevates the conversation immediately.

But beyond strategy or recognition, the biggest takeaway for me is this: when you finally use your voice, whether it shakes or soars, you claim your space in the world. And that is something no one can take away.

Final Thoughts

To anyone considering Leadr.co, here’s what I’ll say: It’s not magic. You have to be willing to show up, do the work, and commit. But if you’re serious about getting your message out, this program is an incredible launchpad. It was for me.

TEDx was once a dream that felt out of reach. Today, it’s a reality I’m proud of — and it all started with a decision to bet on myself.