The 3 Biggest Myths That Hold Women Back from Public Speaking
by Tabby Biddle
Have you ever had that moment where you imagine yourself on stage — sharing your story, your ideas, your message — and then, almost instantly, you talk yourself out of it?
You tell yourself, I’m not ready yet. I need to sound more professional. Who would even want to hear from me?
If so, you’re not alone.
Every woman who’s ever felt called to speak knows this internal tug-of-war. You feel the yes deep inside… and then your mind jumps in with all the reasons why now isn’t the right time.
But here’s the truth: most of those reasons aren’t real.
They’re myths — stories we’ve inherited from a culture that has conditioned women to stay quiet, stay small, and stay “humble.”
Let’s unravel a few of the most common ones together.
Myth #1: “I need to be a polished speaker before I start.”
Many women believe they need a full talk script, years of experience, or impressive “speaking credentials” before they can say yes to a speaking opportunity.
But public speaking — especially for women — doesn’t work that way.
Speaking is how you become experienced. It’s how you grow your confidence, your presence, and your voice.
Every time you speak — whether on a podcast, a panel, or in front of your team — you learn what resonates, what feels true, and how to connect more deeply with your audience.
The women you admire on stage didn’t start as perfect speakers. They started with courage — just like you will.
Try this: Next time you’re invited to speak, say yes — even if it scares you. Let your message lead the way, not your perfectionism.
Myth #2: “I need a big following before I can get booked.”
Another myth I hear all the time: “Once I grow my audience, then I’ll start speaking.”
Actually, it’s the other way around.
Speaking is one of the most powerful ways to grow your audience. It positions you as a thought leader, helps people connect with you on a human level, and opens doors you could never have planned for.
I’ve watched clients go from one small local panel to keynoting national conferences — all because they said yes to one opportunity before they felt “ready.”
Try this: Look for one place in your current world where you can share your message. This might be a community event, a virtual gathering, or even your own Instagram Live. Start where you are. Your audience will grow from there.
Myth #3: “I don’t have a story worth sharing.”
This one breaks my heart the most — because every woman has a story.
It doesn’t need to be dramatic or world-changing to have an impact on your audience. Your story becomes powerful the moment it’s shared with honesty, vulnerability, and heart.
Maybe you overcame burnout. Maybe you navigated a career pivot. Maybe you found your voice after years of being overlooked. Maybe you’re still in the middle of your story — and that’s okay, too.
Your lived experience holds wisdom that someone else is waiting to hear. Your voice can be medicine for someone else’s journey.
Try this: Ask yourself, What’s one lesson I’ve learned the hard way — that could help another woman avoid the same pain or confusion? That’s the beginning of your talk.
You’re More Ready Than You Think
You don’t have to wait until you’ve “arrived” — until you have the perfect bio, the big stage, or the external validation that says you’re legitimate — to start speaking.
You arrive the moment you decide to use your voice to help someone else. You become a speaker by speaking.
Every time you share your story, you take a stand for your leadership — the kind rooted in truth, courage, and care for others.
When you say yes to your voice, you say yes to your next level of leadership — the one where you’re seen, heard, and valued for the wisdom you already hold.
If you’ve been waiting for a sign that it’s time to begin speaking — this is it.
Join Me for a Free Live Masterclass
Jumpstart Your Public Speaking Career
A 90-minute experience for women ready to speak, lead & get paid
📅 Tuesday, November 18th
💻 Live on Zoom
Together, we’ll map out your next steps to find your message, share your story, and start booking speaking opportunities that align with your purpose and leadership.
You don’t need a big platform — just a message that matters and a willingness to begin.
Tabby Biddle is a women’s thought leadership coach, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author of Find Your Voice: A Woman’s Call to Action. She helps women develop their voice, share their message, and rise as influential speakers and thought leaders. Learn more at tabbybiddle.com or connect on LinkedIn.