“Cat, I recently FROZE, completely froze, when the MC introduced me to talk. I was prepared, I knew my topic, but my nerves got the better of me and I froze. How do I NOT freeze next time?”

That’s the conversation that has sparked this episode, and I’m recounting the advice I gave in a recent group call.

Freezing on stage is a ‘normal’ response - it’s part of the nervous system’s fight, flight or freeze response.

If you’ve ever frozen when asked a question, or about to present, or you fear you might, listen in to hear:

• My simple nervous system regulation techniques for calming your nerves

• How to engage in a useful and compassionate conversation with your internal dialogue (that is screaming at you when you’re nervous)

• Why experiencing the freeze response is NOT a reason to never speak up again

• How having a standard start to your presentation can help ‘jump-start’ you, even if you do freeze