At Speakeasy Coaching, we believe the best speakers don’t hide behind a polished façade — they stand out by being themselves. Public speaking isn’t about stripping away your personality; it’s about finding your voice, owning your story, and learning how to share it in a way that makes people listen.

That’s why our coaching is never off-the-shelf. We take time to get to know you — what excites you, what unnerves you, and what drives you — and help you bring that into your story. We also keep things comfortable and human. An overly formal approach serves no purpose, so we don’t use one. Instead, we ask, we listen, and we work with insight, warmth, and yes, sometimes fun.

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Creating authentic, powerful speakers

Why We’re Different

Most of us have sat through presentations that feel stiff, formal, or instantly forgettable. That’s not what today’s audiences want. They want energy, connection, and a speaker they can relate to. With attention spans shorter than ever, audience engagement matters more than anything.

Our approach blends professional communication techniques with a stand-up comedy twist. That means:

  • Building confidence while staying true to your natural style
  • Using humour to keep people engaged — without forcing it
  • Sharpening structure so your message is clear and compelling
  • Mastering timing and delivery to make every point land
  • Learning to think on your feet, whether pitching, presenting, or handling tough questions

It’s practical, supportive, and it works.

Who We Work With

We’ve coached leaders at Amex, EDF, Lego, Virgin Atlantic, and NatWest, alongside entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals who simply want to feel more confident. Some clients come to us frustrated that their fear of public speaking is holding back their careers. Others are preparing TED talks, high-stakes pitches, or keynotes. And many just want to stop dreading that moment when all eyes turn to them.

Whatever the reason, the outcome is the same: speakers who feel like the best version of themselves and audiences who lean in to listen.

Meet Louise Stevenson

I’m Louise, the founder of Speakeasy Coaching. I began my career in stand-up comedy more than 25 years ago — and if you can make a room full of strangers laugh, you can handle just about anything. Since then, I’ve combined comedy with my work as a communications coach, keynote speaker, and author.

Over the years, I’ve shared the stage with comedians like Alan Carr and Jimmy Carr, and I’ve performed at international festivals, appeared on Channel 4 and BBC Radio, and trained leaders across industries. I also hold a Postgraduate Diploma and a Master’s in Creative Writing, which means I can help clients not just deliver with confidence, but also craft stories and messages that stick.

I’ve written three books: The New Comedian’s Handbook, How to Be a Comedian and Smash Your First Gig, and my debut psychological thriller Die Laughing, which was released this year. Storytelling, humour, and performance run through everything I do — and I bring all of that into my coaching.

Born in London, raised in Glasgow, now living in Brighton — I balance running Speakeasy Coaching and my sister company Brighton Comedy Course, where I teach comedy, 1:1 coaching, and speech writing, alongside my writing career. I also work as a keynote speaker, compère, and regularly feature on podcasts and after-dinner talks for corporate events and universities. (Phew!)

In Their Words

‘Louise is a fantastic coach who has helped me greatly in public speaking and getting ready for pitching. I cannot recommend her highly enough. She listens to your concerns, asks for feedback, follows up with resources and allows you to get the most out of your sessions. 10/10.’ – Dr Caroline Morton

Let’s Talk

If you’re ready to feel more confident, authentic, and effective in how you communicate, I’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to chat about your goals — or connect with me on LinkedIn.

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