How to overcome stage fright as a woman entrepreneur and leader. Speaker and author Mahlena-Rae Johnson shares her 3-step framework (relax, relate, release) to help introverted women leaders conquer public speaking anxiety and step into their power on stage with confidence.

In episode 296 of Gratitude Geek, I sit down with Mahlena-Rae Johnson—speaker, comedian, 6-time author, and self-proclaimed "Professor X for Introverted EdTech CEOs with Stage Fright"—to discuss how women can overcome stage fright and public speaking anxiety.

Why do 80% of women experience stage fright compared to only 60% of men? Mahlena breaks down the gender gap in public speaking anxiety and shares actionable strategies for introverted women leaders who need to show up and speak with authority.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• The real reason women fear public speaking more than men (hint: it starts before you even open your mouth)
• Mahlena's "Relax, Relate, Release" 3-step framework for overcoming stage fright
• How to practice public speaking in low-stakes ways, starting with a 30-second video challenge
• Why introverts actually have advantages on stage
• Physical symptoms of stage fright and how to manage them before, during, and after presentations
• How to step into your power as a woman speaker despite societal judgment
• The importance of planning your recovery time after giving a presentation
• How body dysmorphia and self-perception affect women's confidence on stage

About Mahlena-Rae Johnson

Mahlena-Rae Johnson has spent over 20 years teaching introverted leaders how to hone their public speaking superpower. She's the author of six books, including Speak Anyway: A Public Speaking Guide for Introverted CEOs with Stage Fright. Her work focuses on helping women leaders overcome public speaking anxiety and deliver powerful presentations with confidence.

Mahlena is also a comedian and sci-fi author who brings humor and storytelling into her speaking coaching practice. She's passionate about helping introverted CEOs recognize that their quiet nature isn't a weakness—it's a strategic advantage.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Speak Anyway: A Public Speaking Guide for Introverted CEOs with Stage Fright by Mahlena-Rae Johnson: https://amzn.to/43aEDTf

Public Speaking Statistics (gender gap data): https://www.crossrivertherapy.com/public-speaking-statistics

Toastmasters International for public speaking practice: https://toastmasters.org

Connect with Mahlena-Rae Johnson

• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/mahlena

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mahlenaspeaks

Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4nw3bgN

Related Gratitude Geek Episodes

• Episode 167: Public Speaking Coach Meridith Grundei on Presentation Skills
• Episode 177: Jennifer S. Wilkov on Empowering Women to Speak Up and Be Heard
• Episode 275: Fletcher Ellingson on Rewiring Fear Stories

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About Gratitude Geek: Gratitude Geek is the podcast for women solopreneurs over 40 building genuine, lasting connections with clients, colleagues, and community. Hosted by Kandas Rodarte—growth coach, metastatic breast cancer thriver, and marketing expert with 30+ years of experience.

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