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Jo McGinley is an internationally recognized communication coach with more than 30 years of experience developing high-impact speakers and teams. A trusted partner to C-suite executives, emerging leaders, and mission-driven organizations, Jo specializes in helping professionals communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Her methodology blends theatrical training, improvisational intelligence, voice and speech coaching, and brain-based learning practices, creating deeply personalized experiences that leverage how humans actually process information and connection. Jo helps clients understand and work with — not against — the nervous system, so presence becomes sustainable rather than performative.

Jo’s roster includes Olympic athletes and their coaches, Oscar nominees, musicians, and leaders in healthcare, finance, and technology. She has served as a guest instructor at Princeton University, Pepperdine University, the University of San Francisco, and the Harvard Innovation Lab (iLab).

She also works extensively with technical innovators — engineers, architects, data scientists, and product teams — guiding them to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives that move markets and mobilize change.

Stephen Kearin develops executives, teams, and emerging leaders into dynamic, high-performing communicators. His coaching blends theater training, improvisational expertise, and voice and speech technique to unlock full stage presence.

A globally acclaimed improvisational actor, Stephen has worked across industries to elevate storytelling, collaboration, and confidence—from executives and writers, to animators, Olympic athletes, and the world-class artists of Cirque du Soleil. He also partners with teams to cultivate creative, psychologically safe cultures where innovation and ensemble thinking thrive.

Stephen has served as a guest instructor at Stanford University, Pepperdine University, and the University of San Francisco.

Beyond his work as a coach, Stephen is widely recognized for his contributions to performance, language creation, and voice acting. He is the co-creator of Simlish, the iconic language of The Sims, and was the principal male voice in The Sims, The Sims 2, and Sims Medieval. He created Martian languages for Disney’s Mars Needs Moms and CW’s Supergirl, and appears in DreamWorks Animation classics including Kung Fu Panda 1–3, Madagascar 2 & 3, Monsters vs. Aliens, Megamind, Penguins of Madagascar, and more.

Testimonials

  • "I am still stunned by the results of the 2-day intensive I took with Jo. Watching everyone in the class make tremendous strides from our first video to the last was so special and, frankly, astonishing. Led by Jo's warmth and investment in our progress, the group bonded over our struggles and rewards. Also, it was fun. The theory Jo taught us was clear and simple, and her exercises were shockingly e"ective and repeatable on our own. We are all left with the feeling of having already achieved immediate improvements to our speech clarity and impact, but perhaps more importantly, we now possess the tools and understanding to go even further. What a gift!"

    Ahsan B., Senior Software Engineer

  • “Whenever I’ve pitched a film idea or spoken about my work, I've walked away thinking it was an absolutely miserable experience. I simply did not have the tools to express myself in an organized, coherent manner. Jo’s two-day workshop was the first time I’ve ever spoken in public with confidence, focus, and perhaps even joy. The effective techniques we learned and the ample time to practice facilitated nothing short of a miracle — I actually had fun. I learned so much and am deeply grateful for the time, energy, encouragement, and positive spirit. Jo is a truly gifted teacher and a wonderful person to know. I’m so grateful for the incredible experience.”

    Lori S., Documentary Filmmaker

  • "Jo took the time to understand and identify each participant's strengths and areas to develop." “This 2-day workshop was more than I could have imagined. By challenging myself and laying down my internal fears, I gained self-confidence and learned how to better connect with my listeners. The exercises and video practice were highly e"ective, and the results were powerful. Jo is an amazing coach who took the time to understand and identify each participant’s strengths and areas to develop. Simply grateful.”

    Marilyn M., Manager Learning & Development

  • “I just received this feedback from my manager: You're getting so much more poised in presenting your team's work - much less hectic/frazzled than in the past. You are speaking and breathing in a way that allows us to absorb what you are saying.”

    Nitya M., Product Manager

  • "In two days (that flew by in the blink of an eye!) Jo gently and effectively revamped our group's public speaking style. I feel much more confident with tools and frameworks for story-telling. The group environment was safe and nurturing, with lots of interactivity and opportunities to practice. The virtual format made this training accessible for participants across the country; the two days of training will have a lifetime of impact."

    Anne V., Director, Business Development

  • "Jo is fun, she made you feel at ease. The strategies are clear, small in number combined with several occasions of live practice. I did not know until these sessions with Jo that fragmenting is equally important in 1:1 or 1:many communication as much as it is important in powerpoint presentations. Couple of days later, I feel that I am more comfortable talking, my message is getting across."

    Abaynesh G., Senior Membrane Scientist

  • “This workshop is nothing short of life changing. I feel a new confidence around public speaking, whether that be online or in person. I actually can’t wait to use all of the invaluable tips and skills I was taught during the workshop I just attended. Jo sets the tone for learning through doing by building group trust that allows people to learn while they are doing something hard and a bit nerve-racking. I am blown away by the experience I had with Jo and the online group. We went on a journey together that I am changed by in the best way possible. I really cannot express how powerful and helpful this workshop experience is.”

    Nora B., Somatic Coach

  • “The two days speaking intensive, I just did with Jo McGinley blew me away! Never would I have imagined that I could make the kind of progress I made in my speaking abilities in a two-day workshop. Jo is an amazing coach who not only knows her craft, but knows how to deliver it in a way that is non-threatening and actionable. If you want to improve your speaking abilities by leaps and bounds, this is the place to do it.”

    Kathryn K., Writing Coach

  • “As a professional public speaker, I highly recommend Jo's workshop for anyone who wants to express themselves more effectively. Learning more about my voice was a profound experience that also taught me more about myself. And the time flew by! It's no exaggeration to say that her advice and approach are transformational.”

    Seth P., Director Economic Roundtable

  • “I've never felt more empowered to connect with whomever I’m speaking with than after Jo's two-day workshop. Whether it's a room of a few or many, Jo's foundation meets you where you are and propels you to be your best self. I now have the tools to effectively communicate or engage in conversations with confidence!”

    D’Angelo S., CEO

  • “Business is about relationships and relationships are about connecting. In order to connect, you have to communicate your thoughts. This workshop will help you communicate to connect. It's important to invest in your business. It's equally important to invest in yourself.”

    Mike M., VP of Sales & Business Development

  • "The course is a very friendly and approachable way to do a deep dive into understanding one's personal styles of communication. It helped me to gain greater self awareness and to learn and practice tools to adapt my approach. It also helped me to clarify awareness of my existing strengths and to select what I want to focus on in improving my communications. The course helped me to unlearn some unhelpful techniques for public speaking that I had absorbed and to consciously identify how I would speak effectively 1 on 1 when 1 on many. It was great for building my confidence and skills."

    Hannah H., Executive Director

  • "Jo’s workshop exceeded my expectations. It was not only enjoyable and informative but also empowering. In just two days, I know I have become a more effective and authentic communicator. "

    Merritt T, Strategic Account Executive

  • “Jo's course gave me the tools to deliver my point of view in a clear, concise, and compelling manner. We addressed and then actively corrected all the elements of speaking which can inhibit the impact of a message. In just two days I was able to break myself of some longtime bad habits and truly transform the way I communicate. I have no doubt the benefits of this course will compound over the span of my career!”

    Chloe G., Senior Industrial Designer

  • “Jo is both attentive and playful, incisive and gentle. She gives precision feedback that's instantly applicable and extremely personal to the individual client. And the information stays with me, months after my most recent workshop, because she presents it in a way that's both perfect for the moment and easy to remember and practice later.”

    Sara MP, Producer/Actor/Director

  • “I never realized how useful it removing self-video in the zoom meetings. I can focus on my listener and group discussions more. Delivering short sentences, zipping between sentences, speaking while looking at one person at a time etc all makes me more comfortable when speaking.”

    Ni Z., Data Engineer

  • “Jo's workshop was completely unexpected in the best way! As a seasoned public speaker who has traveled the world speaking to thousands of people, I wondered what I would get out of it. I can definitely say, unequivocally, you will get so much out of it. No matter who you are, you will emerge from this experience with a better understanding of yourself and a more skillful approach to public speaking. I learned that while I had a commanding presence on stage, I wasn't necessarily creating the neurological loop that is necessary to really make an impact on my listeners. This tool has been invaluable in my communications both on and off stage since the workshop. I was also astonished at the amount of progress every member of the group made in such a short amount of time. I witnessed each person not only significantly improve over the two days, but really start to embrace and enjoy the challenge of public speaking. They say public speaking is the #1 fear for most people, even over death. Jo has a foolproof approach that takes the anxiety out of it. I can't recommend her gentle wisdom enough!”

    Nirali S., Senior HR

  • “I highly recommend working with Jo if you want to feel confident speaking clearly and authentically, sharing your voice in a way that feels true to you and also has the capacity to move your listeners. I have always struggled with stage fright when speaking, even to small groups of people, but after working with Jo, it feels so easy! I used to avoid opportunities to speak; now I look forward to them!”

    Mick K., Clinical Psychologist

  • “Jo's communication class was truly fantastic—enjoyable, clear, and expertly delivered. The virtual format was smooth, and the two days flew by! The techniques Jo shared are simple and thus remarkably effective. The 1:1 coaching within the group setting was very helpful. Jo was able to give me tailored feedback that was actionable. Additionally, witnessing classmates receive their individual feedback was a good learning experience too. I am truly grateful for this class. Good communication goes a long way in life, not just at work. I would recommend this class to anyone wanting to make an impact with their words.”

    Akshi A., Software Engineer

  • “I found this workshop incredibly beneficial. My main question was how to calm down before a public presentation and manage a high heart rate, mental disarray, etc. I not only discovered the solution to this concern but also gained valuable insights into other aspects. This approach was distinctive, and I believe courses like this should be a "must-have" for all graduate students in humanities.”

    A.W., Grad Student

  • “I recommend the 2 Day class to every graduate student unhappy with monotonous academic presentations who wants to make a better impact and true connection with the audience through their speeches. This class helps me to get better control of the flow of my speech. It builds my confidence in making effective eye contact with my audience and improving the "medium" of my words (voice, sentences, and emotions!) I like the nurturing space Jo and my peers cultivated during the two days, where we were honest about each other's limitations and potential. Awareness of my weaknesses and strengths helps me practice in everyday life, which has been made a lot more fun through Jo's cheerful instructions.”

    J.Z., Grad Student

  • “I learned skills in this two-day workshop that will be useful to me in all speaking occasions - from formal academic talks to informal social settings. The workshop completely changed my thoughts about speaking and connecting with an audience. I look forward to continuing along the trajectory that Jo has set me on and to honing these new skills in the months and years ahead.”

    M.K, Grad Student

  • “I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to participate in the two day intensive. It was a monumental step forward for me in terms of speaking practice. The class size was great and I learned a lot that I've been able to take with me in my everyday life. I am now actively thinking about the way I speak more and I am trying to improve on what I learned in class.”

    J.B., Grad Student