7 Powerful Truths Public Speakers Won’t Tell You But Nathan Baws Will!
Introduction G’day Perth. When folks talk about public speakers, most picture someone in a suit, running through slides at a big work event. Or maybe one of those high-energy types shouting about success and goals. But that’s only one side of it. But let me tell you,peakers are way more than that. They’re storytellers, crowd-warmers, and sometimes accidental comedians who know how to make a room come alive. Here at Nathan Baws, we’ve coached and cheered on heaps of public speakers across Western Australia, and we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright funny. We’re not here to give you a dry lecture. Nope, we’re spilling seven hilarious truths about public speakers that most won’t admit—but we’re not most people. These come from years of working with speakers, from nervous newbies to stage pros, right here in Perth. Whether you’re planning to book public speakers for your next event or thinking about grabbing the mic yourself, this is the real stuff you need to hear. Let’s get into it! What You’ll Get Out of This Truth 1: Public Speakers Love Their Mirror Time Why Mirrors Are a Go-To Ever wonder how public speakers get their gestures just right? A lot of them practice in front of a mirror. It’s not about checking their hair—it’s about seeing how their smile, nod, or hand wave comes across. Mirrors let speakers tweak their vibe before they hit the stage. The Mirror Speech Ritual Imagine catching a public speaker mid-keynote, talking to their bathroom mirror like it’s a packed room. Sounds weird, but it’s how many prep. They’re testing their energy, pacing, and expressions, building confidence for the real deal. It’s like a solo rehearsal that pays off big. A Nathan Baws Tale One of our clients, a rookie public speaker, got so carried away practicing in front of her mirror that she bumped into a shelf and sent books flying. She laughed it off, and her next talk at a Perth school was a smash hit. At Nathan Baws, we tell speakers to give mirror practice a go—it’s a simple trick that works. Try It Yourself If you want to join speakers on stage, stand in front of a mirror and run through your opening lines. Watch your face and hands, and don’t hold back. It feels odd at first, but it’s a surefire way to boost your stage presence. Truth 2: Microphones Can Be Public Speakers’ Worst Nightmare Tech Troubles Are Part of the Gig Public speakers rely on microphones to make sure everyone in the room can hear. But let’s be honest — mics can be a hassle. Batteries run flat, the sound cuts out, or that awful screeching feedback kicks in. Every public speaker has had a moment where the mic fails right when they needed it most. Perth’s Venue Lottery Perth venues are a mixed bag. Some have killer sound systems, others feel like you’re shouting into a tin can. Public speakers always check the setup early, but surprises still happen. One of our Nathan Baws speakers once sounded like a robot at a community hall gig due to a dodgy mic, but they kept the crowd laughing. How the Pros Cope Good public speakers show up ready. Some bring their own mic. Others know how to project their voice without one, like they’re speaking to a crowd outside. Staying calm, keeping people listening — that’s what makes great speakers stand out. Quick Tips for Speakers and Organisers If you’re trying to be one of those confident public speakers, practise without a mic now and then. It helps your voice carry. And if you’re booking public speakers, always check the sound gear. It makes a real difference on the day. Truth 3: Even Great Public Speakers Forget Their Lines Nerves Are Normal Doesn’t matter how long they’ve prepared — even experienced speakers can lose their place. Could be someone coughing, dodgy lights, or just nerves kicking in. Happens to all speakers — it’s part of the job. It’s How You Handle It The best public speakers bounce back. They might crack a joke, tell a quick story, or ask the crowd something to reset. One of our speakers blanked at a Perth event and said, “Anyone else having a tough day?” The whole room laughed. Just like that, they were back on track. A Simple Tip for When You Freeze If you’re new to being one of those speakers, keep a couple of easy stories ready. Something short and relatable. A quick reset like that keeps the audience with you. Truth 4: Good Public Speakers Wear Comfy Shoes Comfort Over Style, Always Public speakers might look sharp, but check their shoes — it’s usually sneakers or flats. Standing for hours means comfort comes first. The best speakers know that. Long Days, Sore Feet? No Thanks A full-day event is tough enough. Heels or tight dress shoes only make it harder. Experienced speakers stick with shoes that let them stand, walk, and focus on the talk — not their aching feet. A Nathan Baws Shoe Mishap One of our speakers showed up to a fancy Perth gala in bright trainers. The crowd didn’t care—they were too busy cheering her stories. It’s a lesson: speakers shine by being themselves, not by sticking to a dress code. Advice for the Stage If you’re starting as a public speaker, get shoes you can walk in for hours. Comfort fuels confidence. Event planners, let speakers know the stage setup so they can dress smart and practical. Truth 5: Perth Crowds Push Public Speakers to Be Their Best Why Perth Audiences Stand Out Perth folks are savvy and quick to spot a boring talk. Public speakers have to bring their best to keep them engaged, but when they do, the connection is electric. Perth crowds reward speakers who deliver with heart. Cracking the Local Code To win over Perth audiences, speakers use relatable touches. A mention of a sunny day at Scarborough Beach









