Today's episode is part three of a four-part series with Speaker Sisterhood club leaders and members. I put this series together for you because I'm always asked how Speaker Sisterhood is different than Toastmasters, why it's only for women, and what you learn if you sign up. On today's show, I interview Jennifer Cummings Hillery, Speaker Sisterhood member and club leader.
Jen shares that she originally checked out Speaker Sisterhood because her friend was starting a club in her community and she wanted to see what it was all about. When she arrived, she was surprised by what she found. That was three years ago and she is still a member of that club and has run her own club for over two years.
Listen as Jen talks about her fears around showing emotion while speaking and how she deals with that today, what she has learned about practice, why listening is important, and how being part of a supportive community has helped her on her speaking journey.
If you'd like to check out Jen's club, you can do so here.
We also have a brand new program called Speaker Sisterhood Express and registration is open until February 24th! It's an accelerated public speaking training program you can participate in from the comfort of your own couch. New clubs are launching in March and they are limited to 10 women per club. Learn more about Speaker Sisterhood Express and register here.
More about my guest: Jennifer Cummings Hillery is a lawyer, an active volunteer in her community and a published writer. As an attorney, Jennifer was recognized for her writing skills and oral advocacy. After taking a break from the legal world, Jennifer has found great fulfillment volunteering and serving on the boards of various not-for-profit organizations, political campaigns, and as an elected Town Meeting Member. She was recently awarded an "Outstanding Service Award" from her Alma mater, Skidmore College. Her community involvement has solidified her belief that anything is possible when committed, hardworking, thoughtful individuals come together to support a common goal. She is honored that two of her Speaker Sisterhood club speeches are included in the Speaker Sisterhood compilation book, “Secrets of the Sisterhood: 45 Stories of Love, Truth and Power.” Jennifer loves spending time with her family – husband, three children, two cats, and a dog – who constantly remind her of the joy that exists in all the little things in life.