Why speak?
Let me answer that with a story.
I was on the agenda to speak at a corporate retreat. Even though I wasn’t scheduled until right before lunch, I arrived at the morning kickoff to observe. Being early is always beneficial.
As the morning progressed, the audience seemed bored. The day’s agenda had focused on general updates and the status of software rollouts. A lot of times retreats can miss the mark when they become mainly information sessions. Attendees were grumbling at the break. They wanted more.
My topic was “Finding your Purpose”. As a speaker one must realize, you can’t tell an audience you want buy-in, you have to show them. You have to guide them. So as I took the stage, I led with storytelling.
A story of my two special needs brothers Aaron and Mark. The unwavering love they have for me. Two special brothers who have always been there for me through the hurt, the sadness, and the loneliness. Always being my cheerleader. Always celebrating me. Even when I couldn’t see the gift they were giving me, even when I wasn’t grateful, they never stopped being my number one fan.
Focusing on them creates the fire that has helped me develop and refine a servant’s heart. My brothers’ love has shown me the way to discovering my purpose and finding the why behind my why.
I challenged the audience and gave them steps on how to let their past lead them to the same discovery and light a similar fire. As I spoke, I could see an audience that went from slouching in their seats to leaning forward and taking notes.
Participant feedback afterward included highlights like:
“Your talk was the highlight of the weekend!”
“This not only energized me, but it also gave me actionable steps to implement.”
“I was feeling stuck and stale in my career, but you changed that. Thank you.”
That is why I speak. I truly love helping others bring out the beauty that is already inside of them.
I have spoken at corporate events, churches, and nonprofits. No matter your organization type, everyone needs a path to find more, grow their love, know forgiveness, practice living in community, and embrace their empathy.
WHAT I OFFER
I’ve had the blessing to work with some incredible people throughout my life, who have been so kind to speak to my character and the value I bring as a speaker:
“DonJay brings a connection and compassion from the stage that makes you feel you’re having coffee with a dear friend. As he delivers inspiring stories about his two special needs brothers, you understand the engine behind his love, empathy and vulnerability. DonJay’s honesty about his struggles is a voice and message that is missing in today’s world. You will be inspired to seek a new level of personal courage, love, and learning.”
– Bob Goff, Author, Speaker and Chief Balloon Inflator
“DonJay Rice approaches both life and storytelling with passion, integrity, and joy. He engages his audience in a way that educates and inspires, and he sincerely wants the best for every person in the room. He’s a gift to any event.”
– Kimberly Stuart, Author and Podcaster
If you are interested in collaborating with me to speak at your event, please fill out the form below. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
