Last week, Sarasota Evening Toastmasters celebrated its 40th anniversary — marking four decades of growth, learning, and connection through the art of communication.

I used to think leadership was about having answers. Or presence. Or titles. Now I know: Influence isn’t granted. It’s earned through alignment.

Before I learned how to lead others, I had to learn how to stand with myself. I didn’t fail leadership because I lacked skill. I failed because I didn’t realize my body was translating my mindset out loud. And that mindset was unsure, afraid, and—later—desperate to prove something.