The Unpolished Mic: A Live Virtual Speaker Lab

The Unpolished Mic
Apply to speak HERE
A live virtual speaker lab for fresh ideas and unfinished talks
Saturday, June 6th
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
Virtual Event

No great talk starts polished.

Every powerful keynote, TED-style talk, story, workshop, or signature message begins as an unfinished idea spoken out loud before it’s fully figured out.
That’s what The Unpolished Mic is for.

This is a supportive, interactive virtual speaking lab where women can experiment in real time, test material on fresh ears, explore new ideas, and discover what actually lands.
The only rule: Bring something NEW.

That could mean:
• A story you’ve never shared before
• A brand-new talk idea
• A new opening hook or transition
• A talk you’ve only done once
• A message you’re still shaping
• A story you want to revisit and refine
• Something messy, unfinished, or half-written in your notes app

Memorization is absolutely not required here.

This is the room where you try things. The room where you test ideas out loud. The room where you stop overthinking and start discovering.

Each featured speaker receives approximately 15 minutes total:
• 5 minutes to speak
• Followed by 10 minutes of structured interactive audience feedback and insight from your fellow mic queens, facilitated by Lauren Chapnick

At the beginning of their speaking time, each speaker will briefly share what kind of feedback they’re looking for.

For example:
• “Does this opening hook make you curious?”
• “Did this story feel clear?”
• “Where did you want more?”
• “Did this transition feel natural?”
• “Does this concept make sense yet?”

Together, we’ll explore:
• What resonated most
• What emotions came through
• Which moments felt strongest
• What people wanted more of
• Where curiosity spiked
• Where the message became especially clear and memorable
You’ll walk away with:
• Real audience insight
• Fresh perspective
• Increased confidence
• Greater clarity
• Momentum to keep building

Sometimes the breakthrough happens before the talk is finished.

Only 6 speaker spots available to keep the experience intimate, collaborative, and impactful.

ROUGH EVENT FLOW
10:00–10:10 AM Welcome + setting the tone
10:10–10:55 AM Featured Speakers 1–3
10:55–11:00 AM Quick Break
11:00–11:45 AM Featured Speakers 4–6
11:45–12:00 PM Q&A, reflections, takeaways, and connection