Salt Lake City — After recently hosting its most notable event to date, Business Game Changer, featuring Kirk Duncan, SpeakUp has established itself as a transformative force in the world of entrepreneurship. What began as a humble gathering of individuals seeking to improve their communication skills has blossomed into a thriving organization known for its innovative workshops and events. Under the leadership of Bobby Glen James, SpeakUp has not only increased its revenue but also gained significant notoriety, helping countless entrepreneurs refine their voices and connect with their audiences.
“Many years ago, I realized that it’s all about communication,” James reflects. “I would constantly see business presentations. The point is to get business, to get people to know, like, and trust you. Unfortunately, that’s not what it’s like for most people. People often try to get more clients with a presentation, but the presentation is so bad it just turns people off.”
This insight became the foundation for SpeakUp, an organization dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs to refine their speaking skills. What began as a casual gathering of like-minded individuals has blossomed into a robust platform offering workshops and events designed to foster authentic communication.
James explains, “We do not like to be sold to as human beings. We like to buy but we don’t like to be sold.” This philosophy is woven into every aspect of SpeakUp, where the focus is on creating genuine connections rather than mere transactions.
One of the standout features of SpeakUp is its emphasis on vulnerability and openness, particularly among its predominantly female clientele. “Eighty percent of our base is female,” James shares. “I believe that’s because they are more willing to be vulnerable. I think men would benefit from that too, but women, generally, seem to be more ready.”
At SpeakUp, the goal is not to fit individuals into a rigid mold but to encourage them to embrace their unique styles. “At SpeakUp, we teach you how to be more open and fun,” James says. “It’s much less about following a prescribed formula and more about being comfortable and having fun.”
Recognizing the evolving needs of their clients, SpeakUp has expanded its offerings based on feedback. “We asked our clients, what was one thing they really wanted for the next step, and the number one thing they said was that they wanted more opportunities to speak in front of an audience,” James recalls. This led to the creation of their own conferences and events, providing a platform for participants to practice their skills in a supportive environment.
A vital component of SpeakUp’s growth has been its connection with The Mill, a coworking space and small business incubator where James has been a member for years. “The Mill has been instrumental for us,” he notes. “It provides a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs can connect, share ideas, and support each other. I’ve hosted several of my events there, and the energy in that space is incredible.”
Bobby Glen James’s journey with SpeakUp, intertwined with his experiences at The Mill, is a testament to the power of effective communication and the profound impact it can have on personal and professional growth. By fostering a community that values openness, vulnerability, and authenticity, James is not just helping entrepreneurs find their voices—he’s enabling them to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Through SpeakUp and The Mill, he’s turning the art of speaking into a powerful tool for connection and success.