October Speaker Spotlight: Dr. Rita Renee

What does it take to build a speaking career, refine your message, and make a lasting impact? In this episode of the NSA Carolinas Speaker Spotlight Series, host Alex Dumas sits down with Dr. Rita Renee, a two-time TEDx speaker, international keynote speaker, bestselling author, executive leadership coach, and voice strategist known for helping people come off mute and lead with clarity, confidence, and authority. Dr. Rita shares lessons from her speaking journey, including how she created opportunities by building her own platform, why community and strategic relationships matter, and how embracing constructive feedback helped her grow as both a speaker and a coach. Whether you're an emerging speaker looking to land your first opportunities or an experienced professional preparing for a TEDx stage, this conversation offers practical guidance on sharpening your message, serving your audience, and building a sustainable speaking career. *In this episode, you'll discover how to:* Build your speaking platform instead of waiting for someone to hand you a microphone. Turn your experiences and personal story into opportunities to serve others. Prepare for a TEDx talk by refining one clear, compelling idea. Receive constructive feedback and use it to strengthen your message. Build relationships with mentors, fellow speakers, and professional communities. Develop the discipline, preparation, and integrity required to serve an audience well. Find the courage to use your voice and pursue your purpose. Dr. Rita's reminder says it all: your microphone isn't for performance; it's for purpose. About the Guest: Dr. Rita Renee is a 2x TEDx Speaker, International Keynote Speaker, Best-Selling Author, Executive Leadership Coach, and Voice Strategist who helps leaders come off mute, own their story, and lead with clarity, confidence, and conviction. With more than 35 years of experience in healthcare and over two decades in corporate leadership, she brings a powerful blend of clinical insight, professional expertise, lived experience, and faith-centered wisdom to every stage and room she enters. As the Ultimate PowerHouse Coach, Dr. Rita equips women, leaders, and speakers to move out of the shadows, off the sidelines, and onto stages with authority and without shame. Her work centers on voice, visibility, leadership, identity, and helping others turn their message into meaningful impact. Watch, learn, and take the next step toward using your voice with purpose. Website: https://www.drritarenee.com LinkedIn:   / drritarenee   Media Kit: https://drritarenee.com/wp-content/up... YouTube:    / @drritarenee   Podcast Guest Profile: https://podcastguests.com/expert/drri... Timestamps: 00:00 Meet Dr. Rita Renee 01:45 How to Overcome Challenges and Keep Moving Forward 03:46 How to Turn Your Story Into a Speaking Journey 05:27 How to Build a Speaking Business, Not Just Get on Stage 06:54 How to Create Your Own Platform and Get Noticed 09:00 How to Coach Speakers Without Changing Who They Are 11:21 How to Accept Feedback and Improve Your TEDx Talk 14:29 How to Get Started on Your TEDx Journey 17:16 How Experienced Speakers Can Sharpen Their Message 19:38 How to Build a Network That Helps You Grow 21:34 How to Stay Coachable and Commit to Excellence 23:08 How to Find Your Voice and Stop Waiting for Permission 25:03 How to Put Purpose Before Performance 26:05 Final Advice: Give Yourself Permission to Speak