
"In this last six months, I delivered two leadership speeches—both received with incredible feedback and high satisfaction ratings"
Before joining the Speaking and Influencing Mastery program, I shared knowledge—but not my voice. I hid behind other people’s teachings, feeling safer echoing what I had learned rather than speaking from my own truth. Deep inside, I knew I had stories worth telling, but insecurity held me back. My voice felt small, my confidence fragile, and the idea of standing fully as myself felt distant.
This program changed everything.
Through its guidance, I learned to honor my past, reflect on my experiences, and finally draw my own original insights. I discovered that my story is the message—and that authenticity resonates more deeply than perfection ever could. I learned to speak from my heart, to trust my perspective, and to deliver ideas that transform rather than simply inform.
In this last six months, I delivered two leadership speeches—both received with incredible feedback and high satisfaction ratings. I felt more aligned, more confident, more me than ever before. One comment I will never forget said:
“Your story was delivered in a way that took the air from the room — everyone was waiting for what’s next.”
That moment showed me what’s possible when courage meets voice.
I am immensely grateful to this journey, to the amazing people who walked it with me, and to those who believed in me before I believed in myself. Special thanks to Eric Edmeades for the inspiration and encouragement, and to the Mindvalley team for creating a space where voices like mine learn not just to speak — but to transform.
Here’s to using our stories to light the way for others.
Rajna Smilanova
Leadership Coach
Houston, United States
Related Stories

"I have now delivered my first two keynote speeches—freely, without any PowerPoint slides or notes"
Dorothee Fischer
CEO · Valencia, Spain, Spain

"I had the honour of presenting the book at the European Parliament"
Fatime Barbara Hegyi
Government Affairs Researcher · Brussels, Belgium, Belgium

"I believe that Speaking & Influence Mastery class has assisted me in magnetizing people into my life that will amplify my success"
Heather Hathaway
CEO · Chicago, United States, United States

"It finally gave me a clear roadmap for building talks that land, rather than just “winging it” or relying on inspiration"
Stefan Huemer
Founder · Acworth, United States, United States

"Because of what I learned in Speaking & Influence, we hosted a powerful 6-hour live book launch event… and over 75 people stayed from start to finish"
Catherine Kinsley
Coach · Floral Park, United States, United States

"The content and instructors were the very best in their fields and were able to deliver the information in a digestible, practical way"
Dr. Stacey Kevin Frick
Self-employed · Miami, United States, United States