From Fear to Fluency: How Gary Likener Mastered Public Speaking – And How You Can Too
Public speaking isn’t just for politicians or performers. It’s for anyone who wants to speak clearly, confidently, and with purpose—whether that’s in a boardroom, at a wedding, or in front of a camera.
And few people embody that transformation better than Gary Likener, a former IT manager turned confident keynote speaker.
Gary wasn’t born charismatic. In fact, he once avoided presenting at all costs. But today, he’s the guy people ask to speak. He’s proof that with the right mindset and support, anyone can become a powerful public speaker.
If you're in Glasgow and you’re searching for public speaking training, Gary’s story might be exactly what you need to hear.
Meet Gary Likener: Proof That Confidence Can Be Learned
When Gary first came to Southside Performance Studio, he had one goal: to stop panicking every time he had to speak in front of people.
He worked in a technical role but was being promoted into leadership. That meant presentations, team briefings, and—his biggest fear—Q&A sessions.
Within a few weeks of training, everything changed.
Through focused voice work, breath control, and practical speaking exercises, Gary learned how to:
✅ Slow down his speech and project with clarity
✅ Manage nerves and channel energy into purpose
✅ Structure his thoughts into compelling messages
✅ Speak naturally and engage with his audience
Now, Gary regularly speaks at conferences, leads workshops, and has even been invited onto podcasts and webinars. The difference? He trained for it.
Why Public Speaking Still Matters in 2025
In a world dominated by emails, slideshows, and Zoom calls, your ability to speak well in real life still sets you apart.
Whether you’re:
Pitching your business
Interviewing for a job
Defending a dissertation
Giving a wedding toast
Running a team meeting
Or simply wanting to sound more confident…
The skills of public speaking help you own the room, speak with impact, and leave a lasting impression.
Public Speaking Glasgow: How Southside Performance Studio Can Help
At Southside Performance Studio, we specialise in performance—and public speaking is one of the most powerful forms of it.
What we offer:
🎤 Voice & speech coaching – Speak with clarity, tone, and presence
🧠 Confidence-building exercises – Overcome nerves and stage fright
🗣️ Practical speaking drills – Master the art of engaging your audience
📋 Structure & storytelling support – Craft memorable, powerful messages
📍 Small, supportive group sessions – Or 1:1 coaching tailored to your goals
👉 Explore public speaking training in Glasgow now
Is Public Speaking Training Right For You?
If any of these sound familiar, the answer is yes:
“I hate the sound of my voice.”
“I freeze when people look at me.”
“I ramble and lose track of what I’m saying.”
“I know what I want to say—I just can’t get it out clearly.”
“I want to sound confident and be taken seriously.”
Gary Likener said all of those too. Now? He’s helping others find their voice too.
Real Skills, Real Results
📈 Career Growth – Confident speakers are more likely to be promoted
🎓 Academic Success – Clear oral presentations = higher marks
🎥 Content Creation – Present better on camera or online
❤️ Personal Impact – Speak up in life moments that matter
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be prepared. That’s what we do at Southside Performance Studio.
Final Word: Your Voice Has Value — Let’s Unlock It
Public speaking isn’t just a skill. It’s a superpower.
If you’ve been Googling “public speaking Glasgow” because you're tired of holding yourself back, consider this your sign. It’s time.
🎤 Learn how to speak clearly, confidently, and with purpose.
🎯 Work with experienced coaches who meet you where you are.
🌱 Join a safe, encouraging space to grow.
👉 Start your public speaking journey with Southside Performance Studio
You’ll be amazed at what your voice can do.