Back in 2021, during the pandemic, I sat nervously in front of my laptop enrolled in the “Taking the Stage” course through UBC Sauder School of Business.
At the time, public speaking terrified me. I was doing my best to push through the fear by attending Toastmasters, saying “yes” to small opportunities, and taking this virtual class to chip away at something that felt impossible.
Fast forward five years to 2026… and I just facilitated a two-hour workshop for UBC Sauder Executive Education’s “Elevate: Women at Work” program – Confidence in Action: Tools to Lead with Courage.
⭕ What a full-circle moment.
It was such a joy to share the coaching tools, science-based strategies, and personal stories that have fueled my own transformation over the past five years.
And I was blown away by the courageous women in the room, participants who:
💡 Spoke up and leaned fully into the material
💡 Answered tough questions with honesty and vulnerability
💡 Made bold declarations at the end like:
“I’m going to ask for a raise.”
“I’m going to enroll in a Master’s program.”
“I’m going to carve out time for myself.”
These moments are why I do what I do. To see women reclaim their voices, advocate for their worth, and take courageous steps toward a bigger vision of themselves. That’s the real reward.
Reflecting on this journey, I’m reminded of an important truth: confidence is not something you’re born with. It’s something you build. One small action at a time.
Five years ago, I could barely imagine speaking on a stage. Today, I can stand in front of a room of leaders and know that my voice matters.
So I’ll leave you with this:
What difference could five years make in your life if you started today? What fear, if faced, could become your future strength?
Send me a message! I would love to hear form you: coaching@annagradie.com
-Anna
