Raw, creative well-being talks that explore how to embrace our whole selves — for workplaces, communities and events.
By award-winning performer, storyteller, mentor and published poet Amy Bodossian
They can. And so can we.
We walk around with this notion that we’re supposed to have it ‘together’, but truly – who has got it ‘together’? And what does that even mean? I think this notion leaves us feeling like we’re constantly falling short, and has us ‘presenting’ a version of ourselves we think people want. I believe this inhibits true connection. Because where humans really connect is precisely in the place of not having it all together. What we really crave is authenticity. Our nervous systems feel it. Our cells sigh in relief. It’s healing.
I’m Amy – an award winning performer, poet, storyteller and profoundly curious human (or seeker, if you resonate with that word T) who has Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and ADHD. I’m intimately acquainted with the not having it together part. OCD is a powerful force that has profoundly affected my functioning (yet I appear so capable and happy and. well, I’m that too… but more on that in my talk). As much as this has been a source of suffering, it’s also the very thing that’s given me my empathy, self compassion and resilience. OCD doesn’t let me just ‘get on with it’. It forces me to ‘do the work’. Add to this being a female artist trying to make it in this society and.… hey presto! I’ve been forced to forge my own path. I’ve learned (through a lot of blood, sweat, tears) to ‘turn my poison into medicine’.
And I’m still learning. Every day.
I believe every human has their version of this. It might not be OCD. It might be grief, perfectionism, burnout, shame, caring for a parent, divorce, illness, or simply feeling like you’re never enough. We all carry stuff. And I believe that being allowed to be more authentic with all of this – with each other and ourselves – is the path to a more integrated, contented existence, and ultimately a more integrated, contented and more compassionate world.
I can honestly say, at 47, that I don’t want to be anyone else. This has been hard won. And it’s a constant practice.
I want to share what I’ve learned because it is my greatest aspiration that we all feel like this. And look, I’m not saying it’s EASY. But it’s possible. I believe it really is possible.
A talk/performance experience that’s raw, vulnerable, heart opening, and deeply human.
I tell my story 0f being an artist with OCD and ADHD and not only is it a talk, but I weave my original poems and songs through it. So, unlike your regular keynote speech, I embody and model overcoming, as only art can do.
In this current climate with so much pressure, uncertainty and rapid change, people are losing connection with themselves. and each other. I find it quite scary.
My talks invite people to reflect on:
How to reconnect with their authenticity
The value of their unique point of view in this world, and how their story (warts and all) is remarkable and invaluable – a true ‘asset’ in this world of KPIs
Creativity as a pathway to resilience and connection
The power of vulnerability and connection
what it really means to overcome oneself, from someone who knows this in their bones.
Audiences leave feeling:
You’re working to create spaces where people feel connected, valued, and able to bring their whole selves.
This talk opens up meaningful conversations, encourages reflection, and reminds people that vulnerability, creativity and authenticity are strengths.
“Amy reminded my team that their stories matter — and gave them the courage to speak.” – Yaru
Perfect for:
Let’s help people feel more human, more connected, and less alone.
Format: Keynote talk/performance featuring storytelling, original poetry, music and audience engagement.
Length: Available as 30, 45 or 60-minute sessions, or tailored to suit your event.
Pricing: From $750. Please get in touch to discuss the best option for your event.
