feedback from participants on my courses

feedback May 2013

Hi John,
Thank you again for running a fantastic course. I feel full of energy and hope for the future in many aspects of my life. What a great bunch of people too! Hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.

Very best wishes,
Miranda.

What did you want from the course? 

I wanted to feel more confident being looked at; being seen. I wanted to come away from it feeling bold enough to deliver some presentations in my work place

Did you get it?
Yes! The course provided a great stage to practise on. It felt like I was given the time and space to explore my feelings and reactions to being in the spotlight. 

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
I wouldn't change a thing!

What did you like about the course/facilitation? 
John empowered us to challenge ourselves. He provided us with the key elements we needed to perform in front of an audience and then let us play! 

The environment he created felt safe and therefore he removed from us an incredible pressure "to get it right". There was the right balance of : new information, discussion, practise and encouragement. 

This wasn't a course about being told loads of stuff and it wasn't a course about being praised every time you managed to utter a sentence! It was a course about gently re-evaluating your responses to the challenges set. 

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish

By observing the progress of others in the group I received all the feedback I needed. The course works! Well done John!!

occupation: Veterinary Surgeon

feedback April 2013

Hi John

Thank you so much for yesterday, it was fantastic.
All the best,
Siobhan

What did you want from the course?
I wanted some techniques to help me present, and a method by which to calm rising panic and nerves, which I get when presenting, along with rushing and missing out a lot of information.

Did you get it?
I think I did get it, yes. I found that it seemed to be aimed towards all of the weaknesses that I have in myself, that make me fear and dread officially becoming a professional individual (via this exam I’ve got next week) From attending this course I have learned a set of principles to help me set aside my fear of presenting myself (either in a presentation scenario or written work…also often even just making phone calls when other people are in the office!).

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
I think that the course and the facilitation were of such a high standard that it is well beyond me to suggest any ways for it to be improved upon.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I think that your way of welcoming people and your approach was pitched exactly right to bring out what was needed from everybody. I feel, as many other reviews seem to say, that there is just something quite different about this course than any other course I have been on. The effect of implementing the techniques taught, even just after a couple of hours, were astounding. It’s SO nice to share with others and watch the confidence of others grow just within the session, absolutely amazing

Siobhan

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What did you want from the course?

To begin a journey where I am no longer afraid or intimidated by public speaking.  I had no illusions of there being  a ‘1 day fix’ but I wanted a starting point and something to build on.

Did you get it?

Absolutely.  I feel that I have some tools now to build on and am keen to see where it takes me.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?

I genuinely cannot think of anything.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?

The area and building where the course was held was great, as was the information leading up to it (I took advantage of the suggestion for Wapping Wharf car park).  Each segment flowed into the next and by the end of the day I had a clear picture of why I feel nervous public speaking and what steps I can do to overcome these feelings.

John was fantastic, one of the most patient and knowledgeable tutors I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with.

Phil Rowberry

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I thought the (weekend) course was outstanding and provided me with a great opportunity to increase my confidence and meet some really nice people. It was nice to feel I could be myself and just be accepted by the people around me, this was genuinely a life changing experience.
Steff

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Dear John.
Thanks so much for last weekend. It was so worthwhile and I'm so glad I came along. And what a lovely group of people! I have completed your questions below. Thanks again.
Nina

What did you want from the course?
To be comfortable being the centre of attention and not feel so worried if I need to speak       publicly. Also, to not panic it about it for weeks beforehand.

Did you get it?
Absolutely. It made complete sense. 

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Can't think of anything.  Apart from the room was slightly cold!

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I really like the balance of theory and speaking practice.  It's such a simple idea but works so effectively. It was like a breath of fresh air!

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
John is brilliant. Everything made so much sense when he explained everything so clearly. He is clearly passionate about his job and it really comes across on the course. I'm so pleased I decided to come along.
Nina

feedback March 2013

Hi John,
Hope you are well.  I just wanted to let you know that I managed to do a 10 min presentation in front of 20 people the other week as a result of your course!  It is a great feeling to know that I have done it and it went well, it has given me confidence to do it again with more ease!
Thanks a lot
Liz

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I run around 10 days a year for the Severn Deanery for NHS consultants and tutors. Here is some feedback from those courses.

An excellent day and far more effective than I had expected" ,

"Perfect session - I recommend that this training is given to everyone whose job involves interaction with other colleagues", "

Fantastically useful, highly recommended ",

"A really good course for all levels of staff. Particularly useful in view of my teaching role."

"It was great as it was – very experiential course which was what I needed – will highly recommend this course to others"

"It was one of the best  (work-related) days I have had for a long time"

the first four reviews listed are all from the same day course in March

Simon's feedback from a one day course

What did you want from the course?
To become more at ease with the emotional baggage that surrounds the prospect and experience of public speaking / being the centre of attention. To get help overcoming those emotions so that I am able to do myself more justice in my life – ‘take my place’.

Did you get it?
I thought the course was outstanding, incredibly valuable – provided a really unique opportunity to practice and become more comfortable in situations, and some good pointers as to how you can take that away and into practice in every day life.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Very little as far as I’m concerned – for a day course I think it achieves a massive amount.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
The best thing about it was the interaction and the opportunities to practice – also the most daunting thing, but the atmosphere that is created in the group is so positive that it allows for a ‘breakthrough’ experience.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
Generally, I really think this course is amazing. It’s so much more than just public speaking – it taps into psychology … and I think that is what is most valuable, because that is where all the issues stem from. I found the course to be enlightening, almost overwhelming to be able to openly discuss these emotions that I have felt, and bottled up, for so many years, all associated with public speaking / being centre of attention.

All the best and many thanks once again – I paid 130 pound for the course, and I struggle to think of anything more worthwhile that I have spent my money on. Now the challenge is to make the best use out of it in my everyday life.
All the best,
Simon

linkedin review 6th March 2013

"A truly brilliant, stand-out facilitator for public speaking. John is trustworthy, very knowledgeable and highly expert. I experienced a day-long class where John gave wisdom, energy and commitment to my learning. John is a wonderful teacher. I learnt so much! Very highly recommended."
Stephen Ashurst
Consultant, Entrepreneur

What did you want from the course?

To gain more confidence in standing up in front of a room full of people.  This will help me in a work context to give presentations and make contributions in meetings.  More generally, it would great if the course could equip me to feel more confident when I’m the centre of attention.  I’m getting married in July and even though the room will be full of family and friends, being the centre of attention is still rather daunting.  If I came away from the course with the skills to tackle this kind of situation that would be a brilliant outcome!

Did you get it?

Yes – looking back at the comments I made before I came on the course it’s fair to say that the course met and exceeded my expectations.  I did come on the course expecting it to help, but because being the centre of attention has always been so difficult for me, I was a little dubious about how much it would or could change me.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?

I can’t think of anything that you could have improved.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?

It made such a difference to come to a course where I felt included and valued.  I really liked how you asked for every participant’s comments after each exercise, and that you made a point of asking us individually when we weren’t bold enough to speak up.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish

It really has made a huge difference to me already by completely changing my mindset, and I know that this is just the start.  I attended a regular group meeting a few days after the course.  I usually feel like I’m shrinking into the chair at that meeting and feel that I can’t share my thoughts because nobody wants to hear them, or that they’ll think I’m stupid.  This time it was different!  I felt relaxed(!) and when I thought of things to say I just said them without agonising over whether I should.  I connected with the faces in the room as I spoke and I didn’t need to seek their approval as I looked round.  It was so liberating and I left really energised and happy rather than beaten down by my negative thinking – such an amazing difference!  As I practice the relational presence approach in more situations I’m sure that I’ll continue to feel more comfortable and confident in myself.  When I tried on my wedding dress again last weekend I also felt so different.  I felt comfortable in my skin and even excited that I’ll be able to stand up in front on all those people on my wedding day because I can be myself.  Thank you so much John for transforming my thought patterns and breaking down those barriers to being seen by others.

Kind regards

A.

Dear John

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Dear John
I attended your course in December last year. I found the course very helpful and just wanted to share the fact that I recently gave a speech to over 200 people and had some great feedback. This is in no small part due to what I learned on that day back in Dec.
So thanks, Matthew

feedback Feb 2013

Dear John

Rob Weston

Hi John,
Your (presentation) course was absolutely what I needed, I found it hugely beneficial and it has already made a big difference to how I talk to groups of people.
The work that we did with presence was a revelation for me and it showed me that there is much more to presenting than just standing up and talking confidently.
Combined with punch, stories and a good ending your ABC=D approach makes complete sense to me and it provides a really good structure for both writing and delivering presentations that I am going to use from now on.
I can't fault the choice of venue, having enough space to move around was ideal and being located close to the food market was a bonus.
I am more than happy for you to use my name, occupation or company anywhere you want to.
All the best.
Ade Lewis
Director and Seo Consultant at Teapot Creative 

feedback January 2013

Hi John
Thought I would give you an update on how the best man’s speech went. Overall it was great! I wasn’t too nervous at all beforehand (no speeding heartbeat) which meant I could enjoy the day. I had a couple of beers but matched each beer with water so I was reasonably sober when I spoke.
The speech went really well and I think a combination of being at ease in front of a group (which came directly from your course), talking directly to the groom and bride, being comfortable with the content of the speech and practicing it a number of times really helped. I got a lot of positive comments afterwards. I am looking forward to developing my presentations skills further into a work environment. While there is more work to do, I really think I have turned the corner which is a huge relief. So a massive thank you for your encouragement and words of wisdom.
Kind regards
Tim

feedback December 2012

K

James's feedback

What did you want from the course?
The ability to feel more comfortable when addressing a large group of strangers.

Did you get it?
Yes I believe so. The course has made me realise I needed to be more supportive of myself which is easily achievable by implementing basic fundamentals which John explains very well.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Nothing comes to mind.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I liked the simplicity of the course and light heartedness of which it is explained. At no point did I feel pressurised to participate in certain activities.  

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
I attended the course to help me progress in my work life and was genuinely impressed by the approach John took. It certainly made me think in a positive light about public speaking and I now look forward to practicing my new skills in the real world. It was nice to share stories with other members and realise that most people feel the same as yourself. I will be recommending this course to colleagues and friends.
Thanks once again John.
James

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Elizabeth's feedback

Thank you for a very helpful and enjoyable course last Friday. 
It is excellent to have found an approach which actually does help!

What did you want from the course?
I wanted some practical strategies for tackling the problems I have had for many years with speaking to an audience.

Did you get it? 

Yes. The course was very helpful indeed.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?  
I can’t think of any way in which the programme for the day or the facilitation could be improved.  

What did you like about the course/facilitation? 

• You established a very supportive atmosphere in the group.

• The pace was just right over the day: not hurried, but not slow.

• I liked the fact that there were several opportunities to practise speaking in front of the group.

• I liked the fact that the course combined explanations as to why we can feel so nervous with very practical strategies for approaching public speaking in the future

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
The course actually addresses the real issue and the causes of the fear.  It is the only course that I found on the internet that seems to do that.  It is fantastic to have found an approach which actually understands the problem.  I gained an enormous amount from the day. I would like to do a second course sometime soon.
Elizabeth

feedback November 2012

Gabi's feedback

What did you want from the course?  
I wanted to learn ways to avoid the fear I feel when doing presentations at work. I was hoping that if I learn new ways to present/talk to an audience I will consequently feel less fear and discomfort and then talking to an audience will be an enjoyable affair.

Did you get it?  
Absolutely! I learned that fear is natural and I learned techniques to ‘quiet the storm’. What makes your course unique is that not only you taught me the techniques but I also practiced and practiced the new technique on the day so I could digest the new info and experience how it feels to apply it. It is a fantastic feeling knowing that I can be in front of an audience now and I am OK and if I get nervous or get an adrenaline rush I can mange that.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?  
I think the course is fantastic, very helpful and well thought out. I felt a bit impatient when we talked about the “wobbly tray of stuff”, For me it felt like I got it quite quickly and we spent too much time talking about it, I felt anxious to move on a bit faster.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?  
My favourite aspect was that we got the chance to stand up and practice the new techniques under your guidance, I think that is really valuable! I loved how you set up the supportive environment so everyone could conquer their personal fears and in a positive environment move on. I’ve heard of many courses where you get filmed and then watch yourself perform - so much scope for our critical little voice to have a massive party! I am very happy you didn’t go for this approach!  Your course is positive, gentle and supportive; it was so beautiful to see each of us starting to show our authentic self.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish:    
Thank you John, such an honour to work with you, I would happily recommend your course to everyone, each of us could really benefit from gaining the confidence to speak in public under your gentle and positive coaching.

Gabi Gogan (Volunteer Services Manager at GAVCA).

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Roy's feedback

What did you want from the course?
The ability to improve my public speaking, specifically to focus my content to the audience and feel more confident doing so

Did you get it?
I got some of it and a lot more! What I did get was an ability to connect with the audience, and the freedom to speak and share what I truly wanted to say. A big sense of freedom to be myself, authentic without feeling I was being judged, ‘assume support!’

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
I can’t think of anything

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
The course is easy going yet focused and gentle. It takes you on a journey, step by step allowing you to grasp speaking in front of people but also it helps deal with the mind chatter that creates the panic and fears of speaking in front of people. In no time at all you find yourself speaking to the group with ease and hardly any anxiety.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
“This is far more than a Public Speaking course, it’s a life changing course with public speaking! Having attended other courses which spend lots of time on technique and approach but very little on emotional connection, John’s course was very refreshing. He gently takes you on a journey and in no time at all your confidence grows and you find yourself speaking freely without really thinking or worrying about it.
I watched very scared people on day one share with confidence, humour and clarity by the end of day two – and they felt good about themselves too!
Professional, enlightening, gentle and successful! Anyone who speaks in front of people or is looking to needs to attend this course with John
Roy Martin,  Personal and Business Development Consultant

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Marcus's feedback

What did you want from the course?
More confidence in putting my points across in a public setting

Did you get it?
Yes   - very much so; but I will now need to embed it through practice

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
It was excellent – I have nothing of any substance to add here.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
Excellent sensitive, inclusive and supportive facilitation.

Marcus Grant
Associate Professor for Healthy Urban Environments

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Hilary's feedback

What did you want from the course? 
To feel more comfortable when I think I'm the centre of attention.

Did you get it?
Yes, and more.

What did you like about the course/facilitation? 
Really liked the simplicity of it.  No flashy 'course pack' to take away, no slides, no power point, no gimmicks. Just a couple of flipcharts, and really quite straightforward advice.  Loads of opportunities to keep trying stuff until it felt comfortable.  Really quite a hands on, practical approach, and the bits of theoretical advice were very easy to remember.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish 
I honestly think this might be the most useful learning experience I've ever had in my life.

Thanks for the additional information, and thanks again for the really helpful course!
Hilary

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Hi John
I just wanted to drop you a quick note to say thank you and to tell you know just how much the course helped me. I came on the course primarily to help me prepare for the speech I knew I would have to make at my wedding. Well I have to say it was incredible. Not the speech (!), the speech was OK but just the overall feeling of calm before hand where previously I would have been terrified. And when I was up there doing my thing I felt fine; dare I say I almost enjoyed it!!
All the best
Mark

feedback October 2012

Zoe's feedback

I just wanted to drop you a line to say thank you SO much for such a brilliant and inspiring course on Friday.  I wasn't entirely sure why I booked onto it initially, as you know, but by the end of the day I felt like I'd cleared out a closet and dumped a whole load of old clothes that just weren't me anymore!  I had a spring in my step as I walked back to the train station afterwards and felt much clearer than I have in a long time.
Needless to say the experience has made a big difference to me.  It's like you turned a light on in a dark room and showed a small terrified child how see with fresh, kind eyes that there really is nothing to fear but fear itself. Your laid back, unhurried approach was so refreshing and proved that you really don't have to be flashy and dramatic to show passion and belief in the message you are conveying.   I loved the way you took us through the process of public speaking step-by-step until everything just felt natural and light and the applications of this new approach are endless. It's great to feel so much more confident in myself knowing I no longer have to appear a certain way or attempt to hide in plain sight.
Thanks again John - I really feel your course is one of the best I have ever been on for any subject and I have been on a lot of courses over the years!
Very best wishes
Zoe

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Damian's feedback
The course is unlike any other I have done and certainly not like any other speaking training I have done.  I loved the way the course and group made me feel supported during the whole weekend. For me it [the course] was challenging but rewarding and for anyone who is uncomfortable being the centre of attention, highly recommended.
Damian

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Liza's feedback

What did you want from the course?
to feel better about standing in front of and talking to people and understand why I don’t like it.
Did you get it?
Yes on both counts – and understood more about the way I (and others) think and the effects it has on me in certain situations/life in general.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Nothing

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
Excellent structure which achieved an awful lot more for me than simply improving my presentation skills.  The course was facilitated with insight, empathy and skill.  I have learned things which I will take with me through my life. It is the most worthwhile, effective course of any kind which I have been on. Thank you.

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Jo's feedback

What did you want from the course?

I wanted to be able to NOT be in constant fear that I might have to speak out in meetings or complete teaching/presentation. 

Did you get it?

I think I did get it!  Firstly something changed in me that made me eager to speak out when sitting in the group (previously I would have found even this hard!) and wanted to share my opinions with everyone and that they were worthwhile.  I have never spoken so confidently in a group situation.
Then I was actually able to speak in front of people and some of the time this felt ok!! The techniques allowed me to focus on one person at a time and not want to run out the room.  The work we did in pairs was invaluable too as it didn’t make a whole load of eyes and blank faces looking at me as scary.  I could think they are just eyes! I don’t need to think about what is behind them.  I started to not really care what people think of me and possibly absorb the positive feedback I was getting (in the end!)

I’m starting to realise that it’s very tiring and time consuming to be constantly trying to second guess what people are thinking, and quiet honestly they are probably not thinking of me at all!

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
I’m honestly trying to think of some constructive criticism. 
My only concern is losing the confidence that has been made over the two days and would be beneficial to have another day perhaps 2 weeks after the course.  To then put into practice some of these ideas and then come back and practice again. 

However after writing this I guess that might be impractical? And would obviously bump the cost up.  Maybe offering a day refresher 2 weeks or month after course?  Something I thought afterwards that could of helped me was to rearrange the chairs to we were all sitting in circle something that would replicate a meeting for me about my patients.  So maybe encouraging us to think more about our own situations??

The actual 2 days I could not fault.

 What did you like about the course/facilitation?

Although I was terrified walking into the room you immediately addressed me and asked how I felt which somehow elevated some of my fears and allowed me to voice them. You chat so freely and easily it rubbed off onto us.  The pair work was a great introduction to blank faces/eyes and built me up to standing in front. 

You allowed us to talk about our physiological symptoms (which) was great I could see that others had the same issues and somehow allowed that to be ok.  It allowed me to still have them but realise that I will still be able to do it. I have been raving about the course to my friends so maybe you will see some of them soon.

 Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish

I could not have been more scared at the beginning of this course and thought on the Saturday morning what have I put myself on! However you immediately made me feel at ease when I stepped into the class room.  I went through a roller-coaster of emotions but somehow carried on which is something I hadn’t done before. 

The techniques and exercises were just at the right pace and I could see a change being made throughout the course.

I have tried other methods in the past to try and deal with my fear of speaking out in groups but this is in another league.  It is probably one of the best things I have ever done and can’t recommend it enough. Somehow on the train home the grass looked greener and the sky bluer … I felt lighter.  

Thank you very much John.

Jo

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What did you want from the course?
I’d like to be able to hold an audience better, be more comfortable and conversational /engaging in front of them. I often have to speak at meetings in front of say 20 people – who can be a bit demanding and sceptical - to update them on various legislative and policy issues that affect them. Sometimes the issues are really important to the audience, but not at all palatable and to make it worse often not straightforward to explain in a couple of sentences.
I’d like to be better at telling them what they need to know in a calm, concise, engaging and authoritative way and be better at ‘taking’ the reaction - which can range from indifference to scepticism to outrage – without feeling that the reaction is aimed at me personally.
I sense that when in this situation I am on edge, sometimes a bit scared (but better than I used to be) and in defensive mode and as a result thinking on my feet in response to a question can lead to my floundering around and not giving a very considered response.
Its as if the ‘reflective’ side of the brain is not available at the very moment I need it – whereas if I was more relaxed and conversational I could access it – indeed delivering in a more relaxed way may encourage less aggressive questioning/responses anyway. I hope this helps illustrate what I want to get out of the course.

Did you get it? Yes – the course provided some fundamentals that will help me achieve ALL of the above

What could be improved about the course/facilitation? I wouldn’t change anything

What did you like about the course/facilitation? Engaging and supportive facilitator. I liked how you concentrated on some key fundamentals in how to mentally prepare for public speaking and which will help if borne in mind when actually ‘taking the floor’. Achieving as far as possible a relaxed, non-defensive state of mind improves the experience for the deliverer and listener and the course was geared to achieving this approach. I liked the practical exercises also as it reinforced these fundamentals.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish – as well as being very useful, I enjoyed the day. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the course/you John, to professional colleagues but also others in a non work sense who wish to gain greater confidence in speaking in public. Good value for money overall.

Many thanks again
Graham

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"I thought the course was very well managed and facilitated. John's presentation was wonderful. His enthusiasm for the material, his humour and energy made the day so much less confronting. I will certainly be recommending this course to anyone whom I think might benefit from it."
Kylie

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What did you want from the course ?
I wanted some tools to make me a more confident and effective speaker and communicator in a number of different arenas.

Did you get it?
I felt that I acquired not just some practical skills, but also a wholly different mindset to my relationship with the audience

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
The whole format, the size of the group, the degree to which we were taken out of our comfort zones and challenged,
the way you facilitated and created such a supportive group amongst strangers so quickly and effectively,
the course content and your unique presentation style!
I thought it wonderful to see people grow in confidence and stature during the day, at times it was like a miraculous awakening - if that is not too over the top!
Kathy

Feedback September 2012

Feedback January 2012

Dear John,
I was interviewed on live tv today!! I couldn't have even contemplated doing this without the confidence your course gave me.
THANK YOU!
Best wishes,
Susanna

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Hi John,
Thanks for creating such a safe environment. It was a pleasure and joy to be part of this group, and to understand what holds most of us back as public speakers and how to overcome these hold-backs. Thanks also for the second handout. Here are my answers to your questions.
 
What did you want from the course?
I wanted to be able to stand up in front of a group and bring across my message clearly and concise without any nerves etc. interfering in a negative way. I wanted to be able not to fear the crowd and see them as a friend who’s eager to learn and understand whatever subject I’m going to talk to them about. I wanted to be able to overcome nervousness and speak up for myself in any group discussion or talk situation.
 
Did you get it?
Oh yes! I certainly learned to understand that if I embrace the situation and assume support from the group unless proven otherwise, I’d be a much happier and more confident person in any group situation. So, yes, I got what I wanted and more out of it!
 
I was able to put it into practice almost straight away this Tuesday as I was chairing our team meeting. Something I’ve not been looking forward to do in the past. But hey, it went smoothly and I even got praise from my manager’s manager. Thank you!
 
What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
There’s nothing I can think of. It was a perfect day. You’re a very gifted facilitator.
 
What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I liked the gentle way you lead me to the point where I was actually able to talk to a group of complete strangers about a very personal issue that I had been dealing with over the past few years and months in particular.  But the beauty of it was that none of this was planned and words just came out. I trust I can take this feeling of confidence, clarity and ‘so what’ attitude, and transfer it onto any work or personal situation.  So, the empowerment this course gave me is enormous and I thank you deeply for this.
I’m particularly impressed by the fact that you managed to fulfil every single participant’s expectations no matter how much they differed from one another.
 
Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
Thank you John, for a wonderful day. It was an eye opener and an opportunity to clear out some very old cobwebs. I’ve not stopped raving about this course to friends as I think everyone would benefit from this course and make this world a much safer, happier and more vibrant place.
 
Nadine

Feedback November 2011

 What did you want from the course?  I wanted to feel more able to do talks without racing or going blank

Did you get it? Yes. Definitely

What could be improved about the course/facilitation? Nothing that I could see.

What did you like about the course/facilitation? I thought John went just at the right pace and I felt very included. The course dealt with far more than public speaking... John greeted everyone and there was a super balancing act of keeping everyone ‘included’ ...don’t know how he did that....

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
I felt a lot of what I was hoping for (and didn’t realise until we were asked to talk about our hopes) which is that elusive ‘peace’. I walked back to Temple Meads station sort of blissed-out. Quite strange. When I got home even my husband noticed I was talking more slowly than normal and I also managed to talk with him ....and take some pauses....that was a great feeling.
I also slept for 12 hours last night, so must have needed it.
I don’t think I realised how empowering the course would be and was very pleasantly surprised that so little was promised and so much was delivered.
I have yet to put all the skills into practice, but believe me, when I do I will feed-back.
I now feel prepared for the talk I’m giving in January...and am a lot less flummoxed about it, than I was....so THANX JOHN, enjoyed every minute....infact I can safely say I’ve never enjoyed a course that much!!!
Mary

________________________________

Feedback for my two day course in November
In my work as a psychotherapist I've attended many workshops over the years; this one I cannot commend highly enough for anyone who feels that they are not being fully themselves, whether or not they are engaged in public speaking; the support and permission John gives to people allows them to make use of this work in their everyday lives. Simply the most inspiring experience I've had for many years. Thank you John
Clive

 ________________________________

What I wanted from course?
I thought this course will give me some outer power and confidence boost (magic pill) that in turn would make me feel very confident and calm staying in front. Generally this was the only thing I could expect from this course because I didn't know what else to expect from it, I never had a chance to stand in front of people and analyse what excactly I feel and think of what I want to change.
Of course I didn't get that magic pill, simply because it is not real thing to wish, or if it was, it wouldn't be healthy option for me :) What I did get, was simple understanding of what public speaking is, in general and personally for me. Now I understand that before attending the course, I totaly had it wrong. I clearly knew that there is some problem, but I couldn't figure it out in order to deal with it.I'd like to thank you for what you're doing, for experience that I had over the weekend and for letting me to understand the simplest thing - I can allow myself to be THERE.

Armand

Feedback September 2011

I found the course extremely helpful. It was full of great people that were nearly all in a similar position to me which really put me at ease from the start. I knew that I could stand up and do it, the trouble being that it had been such a long time since I had last 'done it'. I really needed some practice, and this sort of environment was a perfect place to do it.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
The facilitation was brilliant. I felt relaxed throughout and it was a lot less stressful than I thought it would be.

Tim

Letter August 2011

Hi John
Just wanted to say a huge thank you.  I went to Toastmasters last night and did my first speech - a table topic (one minute on an unprepared subject).  A bigger group than I've ever been in front of before (about 30 people) and I didn't feel too nervous at all, in fact I almost enjoyed it! 

Kindest regards
Diana

course feedback July 2011

Dear John,
Thank you for such a fantastic course - I got so much out of it and I really think that what I’ve learnt will change things for me.
Best wishes
Sarah
 
Sarah's Feedback
 
What did you want from the course?
To learn how to accept and be comfortable with being the centre of attention; to be able to voice my thoughts in meetings at work; to be able to present to, and lead discussions with, larger groups (up to 50); to be able to cope with ‘networking’ scenarios; more simply, day-to-day, social situations which I might shy away from.  
 
Did you get it?
Yes. It made perfect sense.
 
What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
I don’t think I would change anything. Naturally the constraints of a one day course meant you were limited in how much practice you could have in front of others, so I would be inclined to undertake another longer course.
 
What did you like about the course/facilitation?
Many things. The creation of a genuinely supportive atmosphere where mistakes didn’t matter. I felt that I could be completely honest about fears I would never normally discuss with anyone.
The simplicity.
That what we learnt could be applied to small day-to-day scenarios and larger scale presentations (which I would struggle with equally.)
Finding comfort in the realisation that so many others are suffering similarly (I tend to think that no one else can possibly be as awful at speaking to people as I am. Not true I realise!)
Seeing on a wider level what it would mean to overcome a fear of public speaking and realising how it has inhibited me in the past. Starting to think about all the things I could do.
 
Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
John’s kindness and how supportive he was. I surprised myself at the start of the day by feeling very upset (though I had come to the course feeling very positive that I was finally doing something about a long-standing problem.) My instinctive reaction was to berate myself for even feeling that way. I learnt throughout the day to ‘undo’ that way of thinking, of being my own worst enemy, and though I don’t expect it to disappear altogether straightaway, I feel like I’m going in the right direction.

letter July 2011

Hello John
Since being on your course I have found myself running arond food fesitival approaching strangers, talking in front of the board at my publishers and nicking newspapers from first class on the train! (perhaps the last was just a guilty admission) - so thank you. I think the "assume support" thing just sticks in my head and works as a mantra. I've been recomending you whenever it comes up
Cheers
Andy

feedback June 2011

Dear John,
I got the job! The course really helped as it gave me the confidence to be myself amongst strangers - a massive thank you.
Sally

Sally's feedback

What did you want from the course?
The confidence to speak confidently in front of strangers

Did you get it?
Yes - I feel like the course allowed me to find my voice.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
This course is pitch perfect.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
The wonderful people I met and fantastically supportive atmosphere created by John.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
The course was an absolute revelation and has taught me that addressing your problems head on is the best approach.
I met some truly wonderful people and feel I have learnt that diversity is inspiring.
A massive thank you to John for all the humour, support and encouragement.

 ________________________________

Father of the  Bride

Hello John
Just to thank you for your help and encouragement earlier this year. My daughter's wedding was last Friday. The sun shone, my daughter looked fabulous and every one came up to me afterwards and said how much they enjoyed my speech. I even found myself enjoying it! Looking forward to the next occasion.
Many thanks and kind regards,
John

Feedback from a weekend course

What did you want from the course?
I wanted to feel more confident and comfortable in not just public speaking but also in all situations where I feel all eyes are on me.  I wanted to be able to express myself without my nerves making it feel virtually impossible.
 
Did you get it?
I certainly did during the course.  Translating it into real life is not always so easy but I have managed even in just small situations where I would of struggled in the past.  It’s not made it all seem easier on the surface but somewhere deep down it’s given me a little knot of confidence to hold on to.  It feels much more real than some quick surface fix or cover up.
 
What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
I honestly don’t know, it all seemed brilliant to me
 
What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I loved the level of support created in the group and how this meant I could talk openly and honestly.  It felt so great to find somewhere where my fears were understood without me struggling to describe them and feeling I would be thought less of for admitting them.  Having it described at one stage as a course about ‘being looked at in public’ really hit the nail on the head for me.  It’s hard to sum up everything I liked about the course.
 
Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
The work you do John is really special.  It was so much more emotional than I ever expected.  Having somewhere where you cannot fail is a real gift – so thank you so much.
Bridie

feedback May 2011

Hi John,
I've been meaning to email for ages to let you know how much public speaking I now do! I have a new(ish) job and a big part of it is training. This is something I thought I'd never be able to do, I still have a bit of a wobbly tray, but I'm not so bothered by it and I carry on regardless. Your course really gave me the tools and the strength to face what I thought was going to be a barrier in my career I'd never get through. So, a BIG THANK YOU, and good luck with the move! I recommend you left, right and centre by the way!
Cheers,
Cat

feedback March 2011

John,
 
Thank you again for last Fridays course - I really enjoyed the day. Just to mention that I've already attended two meetings this week, and have found the approach learned on the day has stayed with me. I've felt more relaxed, coherent, and have wanted to contribute at times when I would previously have remained silent. Tomorrow will be my biggest challenge so far, as I'll be attending a planning day event with a large number of colleagues. At this point - the night before - I'd usually be filled with apprehension, but right now I just can't wait to contribute.
The funniest thing is that one person has already asked me what's changed... and assumed there was a new love interest in my life. I responded that it was a new found love for myself!
Kind regards,
James.

What could be improved about the course?
The course was fantastic; I couldn’t fault it at all. In fact, it has been one of the best courses I have been on so far.  The facilitation was great along with the course content.
Hannah

Hi John
 
Thank you for your information and here's my feedback.
 
What did I want from the course?
I've thought about a public speaking course for a while now just because it would be a good thing for me to do as I don't feel confident doing it. I'm also having to do more of it through work so I should 'force' myself to do it! The thing that made me sign up, however, was mention in your advertisement in 'Spark' magazine that the course would help people to be the centre of attention. That's it - that's what I need whether in a public speaking capacity or in other circumstances - work or socially.  If it could help with this that would be great!
 
Did I get it?
YES - It was a fantastic course, one I shall never forget and could be life changing! It gave me a huge confidence boost and lots of ideas on how to feel comfortable as the focus of attention. I need to work on a few things but I know how to work on it. You've sown the seed John and I thank you hugely for that.  I have glimpses at how simple it can be - just to be yourself purely with a change of mindset.  I'm going to practise being nice to myself!
 
What could be improved about the course facilitation?
I did think I would have liked feedback about how I was doing when up in front talking to people. Did I do that well or what could I have done to make it better?  I realise the whole idea is not to do this as we need to learn to accept ourselves with all our imperfections.
 
What did I like about the course facilitation?
I liked the Pieran Centre as a venue - the staff were very friendly and a great choice of tea, coffee and biscuits! I liked the format of the course where we are pushed ever so gently out of our comfort zones. The two day course is I'm sure a good way to get the most out of it as there is plenty of time to practise in a supportive environment.  John is a great facilitator and made everyone feel at ease. It really helps that you enjoy doing this - it shows. I loved the lunch on Sunday - bringing everyone together, it did feel like a family celebration.
So many people could be helped by this course I'm sure. All the testimonials are right and it is money very well spent! 

Thank you John for a very enjoyable and enlightening 2 days!
Fiona

feedback Feb 2011

Hi John,
just wanted to say a really big thank you, it's a brilliant course you run - you do a fantastic job, it has definitely helped me change the way I think about public speaking which I honestly didn't think was possible for anyone to help me with so I can't say thank you enough really.

What did you want from the course?
I wanted to feel like I might be able to get through presentations without making the floor shake or wanting to run for the nearest door!
 
Did you get it?
There's so much I have taken away from your course that will help me in day to day life - not just public speaking.  I honestly thought after I got up and talked in front of everyone at the start of the day that i'd never feel any better about attempting it again, but as the day went on everything you said really made sense and i'm so glad to say that by the end of the day I felt better about it!
 
What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Absolutely nothing! The group size was really good and your passion to help us all find our feet in public speaking made a very supportive environment.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
That it has given me a more positive outlook on things that i'd really like to achieve in work and outside of work.  Also that i'm not the only one who finds these things difficult...not that I would wish it on other people, but it was nice to meet the others in the group and be surrounded by people who understand for the day!
Thanks again John,
Best wishes,
Rachel

feedback January 2011

Thank you for a very enjoyable course on Friday.

What did you want from the course?
I wanted to lose the stage fright symptoms - including my mind going blank - that spoiled my experiences of public speaking

Did you get it?
Yes, most definitely

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Hmmm: can't think of anything offhand - it was very well structured & delivered

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
Engaging, accessible, reassuring

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
I was amazed that the techniques we were taught could deal effectively with the 'fear' symptoms attached to being the centre of attention. I thought that those automatic reactions were far too deeply engrained: happily, I was wrong!

Penny

feedback December 2010

Hi John
Just to let you know that I made my “engagement” speech on 19th dec, to 36 people....and it all went very well! People said I sounded very relaxed!
Entirely due to you and the Course you gave in Bristol. Without exaggeration, those two days were life changing for me. I have done courses on so many things, including ones on how to fly a Concorde  or how to do this that or the other. But no course has been more useful to me than the weekend in Bristol in November..
Thanks again John
Alan

Hannah's feedback

What did you want from the course?
I wanted to be able to speak in front of a group of people without being terrified, going blank, or gabbling to get it all over with.
 
Did you get it?
Yes!  I feel 100 times better after the course.  I still go too fast but I’m looking forward to practising, rather than dreading it.  I now have tools to take me forward.
 
What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Nothing!  I think it was fantastic.  Perhaps I would have benefited from having time to prepare and talk about a more formal topic, and a longer slot than 3 minutes at the end to talk.  But I understand that would have detracted from the main focus which was talking in front of a group about feeling confident (very NLP, well done!)
 
What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I really appreciated how gentle, warm and encouraging you were, and how you brought the group to a really amazing generous and kind place.  It was a pleasure and a joy to be a part of.
 
Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
Thank you!  I’ll let you know how I get on.  Keep up the wonderful work.  You’ve obviously found your calling.
Hannah

Hi John
Thanks for running such a great course. It was a valuable and enjoyable (unexpected, this!) experience for me. Right now, it feels like I’ve taken a big step on a path towards my own development. It was a great experience all round. I really liked the lack of slickness – it felt live and genuine and not at all a ‘sheep dip’ kind of course.
Paul

Hi John
My presentation was yesterday morning and I was 1 of 5 presenters, the other 4 were all directors. In brief, it went very well. I lost my way a few minutes into it but managed to recover and no-one seemed to notice. I was nervous about a week beforehand but that seemed to disappear and in fact, I was concerned that I wasn't nervous on the day!
It's been a huge boost for my department to have done the presentation, especially to have been up there with the managing and executive directors.
Thank you for helping me understand the fears and learn how to face them and 'put the wobbly tray down'.
Jane

This is Jane's feedback on the course.
What did you want from the course?
I wanted to learn about some of the anxieties behind presenting in public. Where they come from and how to deal with them. I had already made some progress myself but I believe this course accelerated the process of learning how to deal with those anxieties.

Did you get it?
I'm not sure I came away feeling super confident on the day, which is what I had expected, but I'm certain that developed subconsciously over the weeks that followed as I started to apply some of the 'rules'.

What could be improved about the course/facilitation?
Nothing, I thought it was very good.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
I felt very supported from the moment I entered the room. It was clear that you understood what the fears were and were open to listening to the attendees and their issues, whether they were relevant to the course or not. I felt that the group was a good size and because of that we got to know each other.

feedback November 2010

"Delivery style was awesome. Really, geniunely life-changing, best course I have ever been on"

Khizra

Way above expectations. Life-changing weekend. Quite apart from  feeling far more confident about public speaking, I peeled a layer of stuff off that I don't need.
Liz

feedback October 2010

James, a participant on a two day course, gives me feedback. Published with his permission.

What did you want from the course?
As a repeat attendee I knew the value of the course and could intellectually understand the concepts but I haven't had much of an opportunity to practice the approach and inevitably over time I lost track of the concepts themselves.  Therefore I wanted to refresh the concepts and have an opportunity to practice and cement the core principles in a safe environment.

Did you get it?
Absolutely, the course is very well set up and the group were great.  It was exactly what I needed.

What did you like about the course/facilitation?
Very informal, relaxing and fun.  You have a great way of making the group feel at ease and that enables us to explore the concepts and take risks because you've instilled a sense of support in the group.  You use humour a lot and quite naturally, which automatically puts people at ease and the supporting stories add an element of humanity to the process and made the group realise that they are not only not alone, but actually in the majority when it comes to showing their vulnerability in front of the group.

Please feel free to add any other comments if you wish
The best compliment I can give about the course, John, is that I have been raving about it to my close friends and colleagues, I feel like the course is so different to the usual public speaking course and so much more valuable that I'm eager to tell others about it and, as expected, lots of people have said they want to get over their own fears in this area... though if they'll take the step to join the course is yet to be determined!
The change in participants confidence over such a short period of time is astounding and some very basic principles after being practised make a huge difference to how comfortable and how engaging everyone becomes.  What started out on Saturday morning as a group of uncomfortable, nervous and inhibited people became on Sunday afternoon a group of people who acted despite their nervousness, revealed their true selves and allowed the rest of the group to see them as they truly were... which, without exception, was warm, humorous and charming people.
I don't think it's too much of a stretch to say that this is the public speaking training everyone should receive, from an early age, because it provides the foundation confidence in being in front of a group.  All of the techniques and strategies in the world will be ineffective without a solid foundation upon which to build, which in my experience is what other courses teach.   
James

Letter October 2010

Hi John
I came again for the second time, after a few years, to your day workshop in London earlier in the year and wanted to say a huge THANK YOU for helping me to begin to 'stand up and be seen'  
You mentioned a quote about what people at different ages thought about speaking in front of groups and although I don't remember the detail it made a big impact on me, at 62, that when over 60 years, what have you got to lose, just do it! 
Anyway to cut a long story short I have taken the plunge and trained as a Nordic Walking instructor and last weekend led my first group walk of 7 people with me talking them through warm up exercises and 'being in charge', in all,  very much 'being seen!'  I LOVED IT!
I have told a number of poeple about your courses and hope they continue to be really popular.
All the best with the very unique and special way you are helping people to shine.
Regards
Liz

Feedback from a participant in July

What did you want from the course?
To be able to feel grounded and present when I speak to an audience. To be able to speak with competency, with a voice that can be heard and impacts.
 
Did you get it?
I did. To be able to claim my space, have permission to connect in silence initially without words, and then to connect with each person in the audience was a very empowering experience. To hear the resonance in my own voice when I spoke and to grow in confidence throughout the day was a real joy to experience.
 
What did you like about the course/facilitation?
Great venue and acoustics. Good pace. John, you are a warm, engaging and enabling man. Your passion and commitment to enabling people to claim their space and speak confidently, with presence and impact is very apparent. I applaud you. Your ease and belief that we all could was very present.

written by Sally

Letters July 2010

Hi John,
just a quick update to say that I have got into yet another job which involves me delivering training to customers and it has been a pleasure to do as I feel very comfortable up front and talking to the attendees.  I know from previous experience it wouldn't be like that if I hadn't been on your courses so I just wanted to send a quick note of thanks, and hopefully i'll be along for a 'top-up' some time!
Best wishes
Ed

Dear John,
I wrote these notes immediately after the day I spent with you on 30th April, since then lots has happened and just trying to catch up now. Since that day I think I have been a bit more relaxed and not worrying too much about what I will say to people either in person or on the phone. I think this idea of "Assuming Suport" for what ever you might be doing or proposing to do has been tremendously important to me and I think it has made a big difference and given me a lot more confidence in my role in my church re getting things done on environmental matters and at last things seem to be moving. Assuming people will like an idea before you propose it makes a huge difference to the way you then talk about it or present it you can be naturally more enthusiastic if you assume people are going to like your suggestions.  It has also helped in other aspects of my personal life.
A big thank you John for this brilliant day.
Geoff

ps. My 22 year old son has today commented that since the Speaking Day I seemed to have a lot more confident..

Letter June 2010

I definitely feel liberated from my fear which is a fantastic feeling and one I quite honestly never felt I would experience in this way.  I always felt I would have to struggle on with it and probably never enjoy teaching again.  But, now I feel that I have been given a secret and that although I will probably feel nervous, I don't think I will ever again feel totally mortified and want to run away.
I feel liberated not only in relation to public speaking and teaching but also in relation to being with people in general; I feel more relaxed and the need to try so hard has vanished
with very kind regards
Gerry

Letters April 2010

Hello John,
I had my "conversation" with 20 people at a local Chamber of Trade & Commerce meeting a week ago which seemed to go down well and would not have been possible at all without your valuable help and encouragement. At the meeting, as a result of my talk they decided to write to the local council urging them to take a more active role in promoting renewable energy technologies. This was a very nice and completely unexpected bonus.
The Bournemouth Echo have heard of my talk and interviewed me. They are writing an article about the likely future shortfall in electricity generation over the next few years, I look forward to seeing it.
I hope all is going well for you. Thank you again for all your help, it really has changed my life.
Very best wishes,
Kevin.

____________

I loved the (two-day) course you taught in London and have actually being using the skills taught on it and have seen some internal shifts in myself. Have also passed on your details to many people since I think what you are doing is profound and goes far beyond the normal 'public speaking' course.
F.

 Letter March 2010

Having worked with both individuals and groups as an HR professional, teacher in a tertiary college, chair of governors, voluntary tutor for an advisory body  among other things, I was truly inspired by the course (2 day course).  The ability to release inhibiting and paralysing fears and anxieties and talk about them freely through being 'held' securely by yourself and a diverse group of unknown individuals for a relatively short time, while progressing through the Speaking Circles model was utterly amazing.I  think yesterday's transformations speak for themselves.  As you said, it is a truly wonderful way to earn a living
Warm regards,
Dawn

 from Leora Sharp's blog http://freemyself.net/blog/ written in December.

I’ve just completed a 4 week course with John Dawson from Speaking Infront and I’ve really been WOWed! I was raised by 2 very public figures. My Mom was a Speech and Drama teacher and was the Director for many a brilliant school play. My Dad was on a city councillor for many years which landed my parents as Mayor and Mayoress 5 times. So I really should have no problems speaking in public. But for some reason my flight/fight response really kicks in, my brain freezes up and I can’t recall what I want to deliver. I’m a pretty confident person so it’s been quite puzzeling to me why and what my hang ups are around public speaking.

Thanks to John and his course I know now what the issues are. I won’t give all his secrets away here but if you’re in the same boat, I highly recommend going on his course. Amongst other things we learned what’s actually going on in our heads when we get up there and that understanding certainly set me free.
I’m really excited now for a talk I’m doing in January when previously I would be dreading it!

Letter January 2010

Hi John
I’ve been meaning to write and say how good I found your course, really enjoyable and effective.
I have noticed that I am more confident and relaxed teaching my class, particularly with timing, a sense of giving myself time to be in the moment and therefore allow more spontaneity and interaction with the group.
Also especially in the week after the course, I found myself being able to look people I might be a bit shy with, in the eye more comfortably...so thank you very much
J.

Letter October 2009

Dear John,
I just thought I would share this with you, as I thank you again for the one to one session.
I have just won the short story slam at our local library. Seven people had five minutes to stand up and read a short story out. I entered it a few months ago but did not get placed. Tonight however, I was able to breathe, make eye contact, speak slowly, add facial expression and generally share my story in a much more relaxed and enjoyable manner. And I won! It’s the first competition I have won with my writing and the first cash prize so it is very exciting, and I really do thank you for the techniques you shared with me.
Kind regards
Karen

Letter September 2009
I attended your course in January and would just like to take this opportunity to thank you.
I was approached recently by a recruitment consultant with a particular London based role in mind, I applied for this and was required to prepare a 20 minute presentation as part of the interview process.
The experience from your workshops enabled me focus on my thoughts and deliver my ideas with confidence. They provided the feedback that it was the highest quality presentation of all the candidates. I was subsequently offered the job. I'm sure things would've been quite different without the training!
Regards
K

Letter July 2009 
Dear John
A quick note to say thanks for the course you ran on Saturday, it was a great eye-opener and a great start for me to get working on some speaking skills.  I think your course demystifies the whole process rather than feeling like public speaking is something that "other people" do.  I think it was said during the course, but you have a very "authentic" presence which is a powerful asset. I will be recommending your course.
Alex

Letter June 2009
I would just like to thank you for the personal development I was able to achieve thanks to the course. I made my best man speech at my sister's wedding yesterday and despite a slight tweak of nerves a few minutes before doing it, I found the whole experience really enjoyable and natural and am grateful to you for showing me how important it is to mark the key moments in our lives.  Keep up the good work!
Clive

Letter May 2009

I recently completed your Wednesday evening public speaking class in Bristol. I wanted to write to say thank you as this course has been extremely helpful to me. Learning to 'be' in front of people sounds so simple and yet I don't think any one has ever taught me how to do it. I found that having the space to explore the reasons and beliefs behind the fear of public speaking, with guidance from yourself was a powerful exercise which complimented the practice. I feel that this was all possible because you were so honest and real with us as a group and you led by example. The experiences you talked about moved me. I appreciate what you do.
Thanks again John,
P

 Press coverage
The Source Magazine Winter 2008/9
Can you imagine what it’s like to be at ease when you’re the centre of attention? Nope – neither could I, which is why I said ‘yes please’ to a sampler session with public-speaking facilitator (and ex-Editor of the fabulous Spark magazine) John Dawson. I’ve been hearing on the grapevine for years that his six hour workshop called ‘Speaking Circles’ has really changed people’s lives and I thought I’d give it a go with mine. Speaking Circles is a way of dealing with stage-fright – not only in work presentations and meetings, but also when you’re in social groups and one to one. John is the only facilitator in this country. “There are lots of courses and books out there on public speaking” he says, “but not many of them deal with the scary issue of stage fright. If they do, the usual kind of advice you get is to breathe deeply, run up and down on the spot, or imagine the audience is naked. Here in ‘Speaking Circles’ we look more at the head stuff about why we get scared in the first place, and how it relates to everyday issues to do with our self-esteem”.
To John, stage fright boils down to something he calls ‘The Theory of the Wobbly Tray’. There are eight of us on the day I turn up for my session and it quickly becomes clear (and I won’t tell you how or it’ll spoil the fun) that most of us there are carrying the big wobbly tray he describes. Wobbly trays are where we put the bad stuff we’re thinking about ourselves when we get up in front of an audience: ‘Do I look OK? Am I boring?? Are They Going to Like Me??? (My wobbly tray is the size of a double-seater shopping trolley). As we speak, we’re struggling to balance our trays and at the same time scanning the audience for clues that our worst fears are correct. Blank faces and … (heaven forbid) a yawn, is all the confirmation we need to prove that we’re boring and awful. That’s when we fall apart.
Does this sound familiar? According to John there are lots of us wandering around with these thoughts every day, some of us worse than others. “I have had people that couldn’t be in their own wedding photos” he says, “or couldn’t bring themselves to speak at their parent’s funeral. These issues can really stop us all from being able to take part fully in our own lives”. For the remainder of the afternoon, John teaches us clever ways to become more relaxed, confident and connected with an audience or group and how to protect ourselves from the self-sabotage that always gets between us and our full glory. In the end all eight of are comfortable with standing at the front and full of plans for how to take the lessons home.
I can’t say I’m going to relish public-speaking from now because, as John says: “We’re not trying to do Martin Luther King stuff, we’re just trying to be ourselves”. But I’ll definitely try to do things he suggests, like become an inverse paranoid (which is when you assume support unless proved otherwise, rather than the other way around). “I’ve been doing this for eight years” says John “and I’ve decided to spend more time at it because it’s about helping people to take part in their own lives and on their own terms. Apart from anything it’s fantastic to work on the stuff that reminds me of what I need as well”. Thanks John - it’s a relief to know we’re all in the same boat.
 
Letter December 2008
Dear John,
Anyway I wanted to let you know that at our recent Ruby wedding celebration I stood up in front of 120ish of our friends and relations and did a speech and actually enjoyed it and made lots of people laugh, it was quite heady and I don't think I will ever be as nervous if there is a next time. Of course it was down to the course I did with you in the summer, my main reminders to myself were "assume support", "make eye contact", and "let your words land". So many people came up to me after and couldn't believe I had ever had a problem with public speaking, and revealed that they had the same problem, it really was a revelation! I made a point of telling them about Speaking Circles.
So thank you John, I can truthfully say you've changed my life, how glad I am that I did your course.
Hope you are thriving in your new role!
Love Sue

Course Feedback
I had been doing public presentations in a safe way for about 4 years, but I had a subject in me that I was passionate to talk about and I knew it would help others, if I spoke out about it. What I needed was a way to express the message, from the heart, so people felt moved by it and could understand it emotionally. A short course with John helped me gain this capability. A while after his course I delivered a presentation to 200 of the toughest people in the country. I made them laugh, brought tears to their eyes and had them nodding their heads in agreement. This ability to express ourselves - fully - is one of the most amazing feelings available to us. Don't pass up the opportunity.
Neil Fellowes
Director
www.CommunitySoul.co.uk

 Speaking Circles reviewed by a member of the Association of Speakers' Clubs
"I thought I was quite an experienced speaker since joining ASC (Association of Speaking Clubs) I have learned a lot about speaking technique. This has definitely helped but I was unprepared for this day with John Dawson and his Speaking Circles course in Bristol. The emphasis was to let you develop from a base that is natural to you. Some attendees were there for their second time. The safe and supportive environment coupled with the exercises help you grow. This course speaks to the mind but it also helps a person develop at the visceral level. I expect that John has someone repeating at every course. It was a long journey from Glasgow. However I think I see myself on another more advanced course sometime in the future. If fear is a major barrier for you, this course has a lot to offer"