The Board of Speak Boldly Showcase
Courageous, Authentic, Honest
Speak Boldly was created from a belief that every woman deserves a space to be heard, seen, and supported. As the movement has grown, I knew it needed to become bigger than me—which is why I created a board of women who bring different experiences, perspectives, and strengths to the work. We are continuing to grow intentionally, with a commitment to making Speak Boldly a space where women from a wide range of backgrounds and lived experiences feel that they truly belong.
Meet the Speak Boldly Board
Speak Boldly Showcase began with a simple belief: every woman has a story worth telling, and every woman deserves to feel seen, valued, and heard.
The board helps shape the direction of Speak Boldly, champion the women who step onto our stage, and help create the kind of community where women don't just show up—they belong.
This is more than a board. It's a group of women helping build a movement.
Our Mission
Speak Boldly Showcase empowers bold women to recognize the power of their stories, so they can feel seen, valued, and heard—and confidently share their stories and ideas in powerful, public ways that inspire connection and transformation.
Our Vision
We are building a movement where women no longer diminish their voices, but boldly rise, speak, and lead.
Through Speak Boldly Showcase, we are creating spaces where women face their fears, share their stories, and step fully into their power—igniting a ripple effect of courage, connection, and collective empowerment that has the power to change the world.
Our Core Values
Belonging - We believe courage and vulnerability begin with belonging. When a woman knows that her voice matters, her story matters, and she belongs in the space, she can take the risk of being truly seen and heard.
Authenticity - We don't ask women to become someone else to be heard. We create space for women to show up as themselves, speak from their own experiences, and trust the power of their own voices.
We are committed to growing this community intentionally, welcoming a wider range of voices, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives as Speak Boldly evolves.
Lorraine Connell
Lorraine Connell is the creator of the Speak Boldly Showcase and the founder of Peers Not Fears. Lorraine creates spaces where voices rise before perfection sets in, believing that speaking up before you feel ready is often where growth, impact, and change begin.
Sara Thompson
Sara believes the best celebrations are the ones that create lasting memories and meaningful connection. Through her artfully curated events and concierge-style service, she brings a little more magic, whimsy, and intention to every experience she creates.
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Nadine Hill
Nadine believes every woman deserves to feel that she belongs, that her voice matters, and that she is surrounded by women who will encourage and support her. She is passionate about creating spaces where women can step into their courage, share their stories, and discover the power of their own voices.
Ashley Ryall
Ashley is passionate about helping people believe in themselves and the possibilities within them. As a champion of courage, connection, and authentic self-expression, Ashley brings her energy and belief to the Speak Boldly community, encouraging women to step forward, be seen, and use their voices.
Karen Webb
Karen is a writer and blogger who explores the many versions of identity we carry and how different parts of ourselves show up in different moments of life. Through honest reflection and storytelling, she invites others to recognize, understand, and ultimately love each version of themselves.
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Stacie Cocola
Stacie brings a unique blend of education, public speaking, theatre, project management, and event planning to the Speak Boldly community. After more than 20 years as a high school English teacher, she now uses her experience and passion for connecting people to champion women, create meaningful connections, and help others find their voice and their people.