For many professionals, public speaking is their biggest fear—yet it’s also one of the most powerful skills for advancing careers and amplifying leadership. That’s where Valerie Fuson comes in. As a Speaker, Improv Business Communication Consultant, Certified Speaking Coach, and Certified NLP Neuroscience Master Practitioner, Valerie helps women leaders strengthen their voices, build storytelling skills, and step onto bigger stages with confidence.
Through her company, Empowered Speaking, Valerie is on a mission to transform fear into fuel—reminding women that their voice is their most powerful tool for influence, visibility, and leadership.
From Fearful Speaker to Fearless Leader
Valerie knows firsthand how intimidating public speaking can feel. Like many of the women she coaches, she once struggled with nerves and doubt. Joining Toastmasters was her turning point. What began as a personal challenge quickly grew into a passion for guiding others through the same transformation.
At first, Valerie offered informal coaching to friends and colleagues, helping them sharpen their communication and presentation skills. But as she continued to invest in her own growth—learning from top speakers and exploring improv—she realized her calling wasn’t just about her own progress. It was about helping others uncover their courage, quiet imposter syndrome, and step into the spotlight.
The Power of Play and Presence
Today, Valerie blends her expertise in speaking, improv, and neuroscience to help her clients break through fear. Improv, in particular, has become a cornerstone of her approach.
“Improv puts everyone in the room on the same level,” she explains. “No one feels singled out, and before long, people are laughing, having fun, and realizing they’ve just done something they were once afraid of.”
That moment—the spark in her clients’ eyes when they say, I did this—is what Valerie finds most rewarding.
Advice for Women Leaders
Valerie’s message for women is simple but powerful:
“If something feels like it’s holding you back, do it anyway. Growth comes from action, not perfection.”
She reminds women that imposter syndrome may never fully disappear, but courage comes from acting in spite of it. Speaking up, sharing your story, and stepping into uncomfortable spaces is where true transformation happens.
Looking Ahead
Valerie is continuing to grow her impact in big ways. She’s preparing to deliver a TEDx talk on building confidence and the power of impromptu moments, and she’s developing a book for women leaders who feel pressured to be experts in everything. Her vision? To remind women that success doesn’t require perfection—it requires presence, courage, and clarity.
Why IAW
Valerie credits IAW with providing a platform where women don’t just network—they collaborate, support, and amplify one another.
“I love IAW because you truly advocate for women’s success,” she shares. “You meet women exactly where they are and create opportunities to shine. That kind of collaboration is what lifts us all higher.”
Connect with Valerie
You can connect with Valerie and explore her work at valeriefuson.com or on LinkedIn.
✨ Ready to amplify your own voice? Join IAW for more powerful introductions, connections, and opportunities to step into the spotlight alongside leaders like Valerie Fuson.
