Public speaking

My name is Dana Black, and I am a communications coach, public speaker and emcee! It feels so good to write that and MEAN it.

So can I just say: I got engaged a few months before this photo shoot took place, and when I look at this photo now, I think I was subconsciously just trying to showcase the ring. I mean, look at my hand?! Ha.

I am a SAG-AFTRA union stage/screen actor of over 15 years. I started public speaking in my high school days (winning my state speech team competition and speaking at graduation) and went on to perform on stage at theaters across the country, from Chicago to Key West, Florida.

I am a proud speaker delivery coach for TEDxChicago and private clients. Need to do a presentation for work, give a knockout speech at an event, raise money at a fundraiser, or pitch yourself? I’ll make sure you deliver a dynamic, clear, and memorable presentation, both vocally and physically. (I can also help you frame your PowerPoint content, if you’ve got one!)

I’m also available as a speaker, host, presenter, or paid emcee! I’m no stranger to the stage; unlike a lot of people, it’s the place I feel most comfortable—besides a nice lake, that is.

If you’re looking for someone sassy yet vulnerable, who knows the power of storytelling and how to command a room, I’m your gal.

Fill out the contact form below and let’s chat!

Let’s rock the stage…together.

Client Testimonials
“Transformed my ability”

“I’m a librarian who was tasked with interviewing a NYT bestselling author for an audience of 140 people in person and over 150 on Zoom. And PUBLIC SPEAKING had long been my singular biggest FEAR. Dana not only helped me frame the experience with a positive perspective and provided emotional context, she appealed to my interest in MINDFULNESS, and gave me the gift of confidence and support that transformed my ability to pull this thing OFF. It happened, and I’m still buzzing from it. I was not only NOT nervous, I ENJOYED it, all thanks to Dana’s help.

If you’re looking for someone to meet you where you are, and help build the skills to accomplish your public speaking goals, I can’t recommend Dana highly enough.”

—Michael White
Librarian at Glenview Library

“Innovative”

"Working with Dana Black transformed not just my business pitch, but the way I approach communication altogether. Initially, my pitch was lackluster—slow and unengaging. However, after Dana's intervention, I not only won the pitch competition but also learned to infuse my presentation with the heart and passion at the core of my business. Dana’s knack for uncovering the essence of an idea and her innovative visualization techniques profoundly connected the audience to my concept.

If you have a pitch, an important meeting, interview, or any public speaking engagement on the horizon, working with Dana is not just an investment in your project but in your career and personal growth.”

—Brett Sigworth
Founder of We Heart Local

“Forever grateful”

"Dana! Your help on my presentation and performance support really filled a big gap for me and I am forever grateful! I was just telling an executive coach friend about your skills!"

—Nadene Cherry
Mindfulness coach and public speaker