Davondra Brown’s Advice for New Speakers: Know Yourself and Find Your People

Welcome to another episode of My First Stage! I’m your host, and today I’m sharing a conversation recorded live at the NSA Influence Conference, featuring an incredible speaker and educator: Davondra Brown. If you’re standing at the edge, wondering if you’re ready to make the leap from public speaking to full-time professional speaking, this episode is for you!With over 20 years’ background in public health education and academia, Davondra Brown recently transitioned to a full-time professional speaking career. Her focus? Sexual wellness, its integration into health and healing professions, and building deep relationship connections. She’s made her mark as a sought-after voice for physicians, nurses, midwives, therapists, and business professionals who are ready to build authentic connections and break down the barriers to real conversations.Here’s what you’ll hear us dive into during this candid and inspiring episode:The pivotal moment Davondra Brown decided to become a professional speaker after decades in public healthThe difference between public speaking in academia versus professional speaking—and why that leap mattersHow powerful mentorship and organizations like NSA changed her journey (and can do the same for you)The importance of community, finding your tribe, and why you shouldn’t try to speak to “everyone”Why authenticity and self-awareness are a speaker’s secret weaponBuilding a niche and embracing the message that’s truly yours (even if it’s not for everyone)Real talk about imperfection, “ums and ahs,” and sitting in your own laneActionable advice for finding your unique voice and audience as a speakerInspired by Davondra Brown’s story? Here’s what you can do next:Connect with Davondra Brown – Find her on LinkedIn or Instagram, or follow “Dibs on Sex” on all social platforms to continue learning about sexual wellness, relationships, and authentic life transformation.Join a Community – If you’re thinking of becoming a pro speaker or are looking for your tribe, consider checking out NSA or finding a mastermind group that aligns with your values.Define Your Audience – Get specific! Whether it’s your podcast, your stage, or your business—clarity creates connection.Watch Evolution of Dance: If you haven't yet seen Judson Laipply's Evolution of Dance video, watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNgSubscribe & Review – Love the conversation? Make sure to subscribe to My First Stage, leave a rating or review, and let me know which guests or stories speak to you most!Step on Your Stage – Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Start imperfectly, share your unique message, and let your people find you.Thank you so much for tuning in! Join me next week for more real stories, actionable advice, and inspiration from the world’s most compelling speakers.Timestamped Summaries00:00 – I welcome Davondra Brown to the show, and she introduces herself, sharing how the National Speakers Association (NSA) and mentor Crystal Washington have influenced her path into full-time professional speaking.00:48 – Davondra Brown discusses her transition from over 20 years in public health and academia to intentional, purposeful professional speaking—and why those worlds are so different.01:47 – We talk about what motivated her career pivot: planning for retirement, following passion, and designing a future on her own terms.02:25 – Davondra Brown breaks down the role NSA played in making her transition easier, the value of mentors like Mimi Brown and Crystal Washington, and why the community refuses to “gatekeep” knowledge.03:58 – We share stories about meeting heroes at industry events, how approachable role models really are, and why these moments matter so much for connection and learning.05:20 – Davondra Brown gives her “$10,000 masterclass” advice for free: everything starts with knowing yourself, filtering advice based on your own values, and being grounded as a speaker.06:20 – She candidly shares how self-awareness is built over time (and through failure), why imperfection belongs on stage, and the importance of just starting before you feel ready.07:21 – “My message is not for everybody”—Davondra Brown talks about her focus on sexual wellness, relationship expertise, and the freedom that comes from serving a specific audience.08:30 – We discuss the dangers of trying to appeal to everyone, why specificity matters, and how to find your true tribe as a speaker or podcaster.10:00 – Davondra Brown explains how she found her own tribe: first through NSA, then through a women-in-business mastermind that’s been going strong for years—and how doing the work attracts your right people.12:55 – We wrap up with an ode to mastermind friendships, continued growth, and a reminder that you’ll never be perfect out the gate—so just start now.