We all need champions and cheerleaders. The champions are the people who can make things happen for you in your career. They have influence and a seat at the table. Cheerleaders are different, but just as important in my book. They are the people who give you the pep talk, who believe in you, who are excited for your accomplishments — who push you to try.

I will never forget my son Noah, 8 years old at the time, cheering me on before my first international speech. I was so nervous and he calmed and energized me at the same time by simply saying, “You’re going to be great, mom.”

I was so proud and excited to have my cheerleaders with me when I received my certified speaking designation (CSP).  You can see them at the end of the video below, cheering me on.

What’s a CSP? It is the highest earned designation that can be achieved by a member of the National Speakers Association or Global Speakers Federation member associations.

According to NSA President Brian Walter:

“Earning the CSP is no small task. To achieve this designation, the professional speaker must show documented proficiency over a minimum of five years, must receive positive evaluations from their clients, and must be evaluated and affirmed through a peer-review process. When meeting professionals wish to hire a speaker with a high-level of expertise and competency, superior speaking ability, and a proven track record of professionalism and success, they can rely on those who hold the Certified Speaking Professional designation to deliver.”

In other words: It’s a big deal, it took me 10 years to achieve, and having my kids there made it even better. Be sure to check out their reactions in the video! ​​​​​​​

I am beyond thrilled to add ‘CSP’ to the end of my title, and I am so thankful for everyone who helped me get to this point — especially my cheerleaders and champions.​​​​​​​