We've all been there. You're up in front of the room, your heart starts beating, your palms get sweaty, you hope you don't throw up. The fear of public speaking, also known as glossophobia, is one of the most common fears in America. If you're one of those people who will do anything to avoid it--- you're not alone. In fact, studies show almost 75% of the population is affected.
In this episode we meet Alondra Lomeli, Dante Wright, Denise Ocampo and Britton Lee-- four Lumberjacks who are conquering this fear by participating in the Regents Cup, a first of its kind public speaking competition.
Led by Dr. Gretchen Gee, NAU President's Distinguished Teaching Fellow, the team has spent the fall semester practicing a variety of debate styles anchored in respect and civil discourse. While it is a competition, Dante describes it as "more of a gathering and celebration of what it is to have free speech." As Denise emphasizes,"There’s no attacking, you’re not even judged on how well you defend your side, you’re judged on how inclusive you are of other people and how respectful you are of other people’s words.
Tune in and hear how how our Lumberjacks conquer their fear of public speaking and how many times they go through through their speeches before they feel ready.
The Regents Cup explained by Dr. Gee
Apply for the competition: Regents Cup official site
Professor Spotlight: Dr. Gee
Thanks for listening! Want to be on our podcast? Share your idea with us and be a guest on LumberChats.