Everything you want is on the other side of FEAR – James Sweasy Motivational Speaker

When I stepped onto the stage for my first event as a motivational speaker, I was a mess. I looked out at the crowd and said, “I’m a nervous wreck.” Public speaking terrified me—my hands shook, my heart raced, and I was convinced I’d fail as a motivational speaker. I used to think I could never excel in this role, that the fear would overwhelm me.

I’ll never forget my first time as a motivational speaker. I was living in a homeless shelter in Louisville, Kentucky. One of the residents, a well-known figure in the community, was celebrating a year of sobriety. I knew the room would be packed, and it was—standing room only. My nerves were frayed. I confided in a friend, admitting I didn’t know how to handle my debut as a motivational speaker. I’d already tried meditating and praying, but nothing calmed me. She looked at me and said, “As long as you tell the truth, you can’t mess this up as a motivational speaker. You’ve got one story—just share it.” Her words resonated. Then, another person suggested I embrace my fear. “Walk up there and tell everyone you’re a nervous wreck,” they said. So, I did.

As a motivational speaker, I introduced myself and admitted, “Hey, y’all, I’m a nervous wreck right now.” The room burst into laughter, and the tension vanished. I found my voice. I spoke for nearly an hour that night, delivering my story with clarity and passion as a motivational speaker. To my surprise, I loved it.

After that, my reputation as a motivational speaker grew in the recovery community. People began inviting me to speak at events—AA meetings, indoor gatherings, outdoor rallies, and more. Each time, I relied on that same advice: tell the truth. Now, whether I’m in front of a camera or an audience as a motivational speaker, I’m at ease. As long as I’m honest, I know I’m delivering the kind of impact a motivational speaker should.

~Sweasy