Speak Like It’s Being Filmed (Because It Probably Is - Just Ask Nancy Mace)
In today’s hyper-connected world, public speaking isn’t limited to stages or microphones—it’s happening everywhere. Whether you're a coach, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, or aspiring thought leader, your words and presence are always on display. The recent Nancy Mace Ulta confrontation, caught on video and blasted across social media, is a powerful reminder that speaking under pressure, managing your tone and body language, and showing up with presence in unscripted moments are essential skills. If you want to be a high-impact, booked speaker, you’ve got to speak like it’s being filmed—because it probably is.
Speak Like It’s Being Filmed (Because It Probably Is - Just Ask Nancy Mace)
Because in 2025, every aisle could be a stage—and every moment could go viral.
Recently, a video of Congresswoman Nancy Mace went viral after a confrontation with a constituent in an Ulta store. The clip showed Mace responding with unexpected hostility to what appeared to be a calm question about upcoming town halls. And of course, someone filmed it. Then posted it. Then… well, you know the drill. Strangely enough, it was Nancy Mace herself who filmed and posted it!
This wasn't a staged speech. There was no mic. No podium. Just two people in a store.
But make no mistake—with or without that camera rolling—it was still public speaking.
Lesson #1: You’re Never Not Speaking
If you’re a coach, entrepreneur, or someone growing your brand, the truth is this:
You are always on stage—even in yoga pants at Ulta.
Your voice, your facial expressions, your body language, and how you respond under pressure—those things speak long before you grab a microphone. And in a world of smartphones and instant uploads, any moment can become your viral moment.
Whether you’re at a networking event or a nail salon, you are always speaking.
And your audience? Everyone with a phone and a social media account.
Lesson #2: Tone > Content (Especially When Tensions Rise)
In the Ulta video, it’s not what was said that got people talking—it was how it was said.
Mace's tone was sharp and defensive, while the constituent remained calm. Even if she had valid points, the delivery overshadowed them.
🎯 Speaker truth: In moments of conflict or pressure, your tone communicates louder than your words.
As speakers, we focus so much on our message that we forget to manage our delivery—especially when we’re caught off guard.
Lesson #3: Speak Like It’s Being Filmed—Because It Probably Is
Gone are the days when only your TED Talk was recorded. That impromptu comment you made in line at Starbucks? It could be clipped, captioned, and dissected online before you even get your latte.
As a speaker, your real-life moments are part of your personal brand.
We’ve seen this with countless public figures—one outburst, one poorly timed joke, or one dismissive glance can go global.
(Need proof? Just search the names of celebrities who had to issue public apologies last year.)
Lesson #4: You Don’t Need a Stage to Deliver a Speech
When you’re a speaker or entrepreneur, your whole life becomes the stage—especially the unplanned moments.
The checkout lane.
The hallway at a conference.
The social media comments section.
Each moment is a chance to either embody your message or unravel your credibility.
And honestly? Sometimes our best stories don’t come from standing ovations. They come from cringey, chaotic, caught-on-camera moments that we learn from—then share on stage later.
➡️ Want help finding your own story-worthy moments? Grab my free workbook:
👉 10 Steps to Find the Message in Your Mess
The Speaker’s Edge in 2025: Situational Awareness
Every speaker should train two things:
Their message
Their situational awareness
Because speaking today isn’t just about what you say—it’s about knowing when you’re being watched, and how you’re being perceived.
Your reputation as a speaker isn’t built in keynotes. It’s built in the Ulta aisles.
Final Word From Your Speaking Coach
If you want to be taken seriously as a speaker, you’ve got to treat your whole life like a stage—not because you’re performing, but because you’re practicing.
You don’t have to be perfect. But you do have to be aware.
Because your next speech might already be recording.
Want help becoming the kind of speaker who’s prepared on stage and in aisle 5?
Let’s talk: Book your Free Speaker's Game Plan Call
