Meet Meta Nelson

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Meta Nelson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Meta, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?

My entry into the professional speaking and events industry in 2014 felt like stepping into a room filled with giants. I started in this industry at an age where I couldn’t even partake in the legendary event drinks. The wealth of experience surrounding me at industry events was both inspiring and, at times, highly intimidating. Yet, I’ve always had a strong sense of my mission and I think that has been a huge key to my success and effectiveness at such a young age.
My journey has been incredible. In 2021 I founded my agency and achieved IASB membership in 2022 – a significant milestone in our field. I am truly filled with gratitude as we enter our fifth year of business at Meta Speakers LLC.
Yet, early on, my difference wasn’t about background or identity in the traditional sense; it was about age. In rooms filled with seasoned professionals I deeply respected and looked to for guidance, I often found myself decades younger. Trust me, I still feel like I’m facing giants every day, but I’ve learned that even the simplest tools, wielded with purpose, can be incredibly effective.
To any young person finding themselves in similar spaces: embrace the opportunity. There’s wisdom in the words, “Never let anyone look down on you because you are young.” Remembering my purpose and the value I bring has been key to navigating these moments and finding my own version of success. Your perspective is unique and valuable – own it. The simplest of tools can make the biggest impact and your unique gifts are going to lead you and call you to places you never dreamed you could get. Know who you are. Trust your instincts. Listen to your inner purpose and conviction and know that there’s a bigger reason for your story and your impact. You may not know exactly what this looks like for you right now, but I’ll give you a hint: real success isn’t about you. It’s not how YOU look that matters, it’s how your MISSION looks. Go live it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

At the heart of it, I’m a Speaker Manager – but the truth is, I wear many hats for the incredible individuals I have the privilege to work with. Think of me as their agent, yes, but I’m also their therapist, logistician wizard, unwavering cheerleader, meticulous producer, stylist with an eye for detail, constructive editor, and their go-to sounding board. It’s a dynamic and deeply rewarding role.

What truly excites me? It’s the honor of serving some of the most influential voices shaping our world. I get to pour into the ultimate encouragers, offering support and strategic guidance. Being a part of their journey and seeing their impact amplify is a profound privilege.

My work is fueled by a desire to inspire, empower, and intrigue. I strive to create opportunities and build a brand that reflects the transformative power of the speakers we represent. We’re not just about booking engagements; we’re about igniting conversations and driving meaningful change.

What makes Meta Speakers LLC special? It’s the deeply personal and multifaceted support we provide. We understand that each of our speakers is unique and we tailor our approach to meet their individual needs and aspirations. We’re in it for the long haul, fostering growth and maximizing impact.

Keep an eye out! Our roster of impactful speakers is always evolving. We’re constantly seeking out and partnering with exceptional voices. You never know who might be joining the Meta Speakers family next! Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. We’re always excited to connect!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, three qualities stand out as incredibly impactful in my journey, particularly when navigating those early years where I often felt like the small one in a room of giants.

To start off, humility coupled with a growth mindset was crucial. Recognizing that I didn’t have all the answers and embracing the opportunity to learn from those with more experience was invaluable. As the saying goes, pride truly comes before the fall and staying humble allows me to absorb knowledge and build genuine connections.

Secondly, developing a strong sense of self and purpose acted as my anchor. As I mentioned before, knowing who I was and what my ‘mission’ was at a young age provided an inner confidence that transcended my lack of years in the industry. Without this strong internal compass, it’s easy for external voices to define you and that path isn’t constructive.

Finally, a deep willingness to learn has been a constant driver of my growth. The most successful individuals I’ve encountered, regardless of their background or personality, share an insatiable curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. Even in challenging interactions, there’s always a lesson to be gleaned if your eyes remain open.

For those early in their journey, my advice in these areas would be:

Encourage Humility and Embrace Growth: Be quick to listen and slow to assume you know best. Find a mentor and be genuinely open to feedback, even if it’s difficult to hear. Remember that every ‘giant’ in the room was once where you are and their experience holds valuable lessons that (most of the time) they want to share with you!

Know Yourself: Take the time for introspection to understand your values, your passions, and your purpose. What drives you? What are your non-negotiables? The stronger your internal foundation, the more resilient you’ll be when faced with external pressures or feelings of inadequacy. Don’t be afraid to be (ACTUALLY) authentic.

Don’t Stop Learning: Develop a genuine curiosity about your passion and the world around you. Never stop asking questions. Even from those you might not immediately admire, there are often valuable insights to be gained. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities and recognize that growth often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

And then surround yourself with people who do all of the above!

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

There’s one book I open when I have any sort of problem that needs a solution: the Bible. Hear me out; there’s a lot of tactical advice in there! I’ll leave you with a few of the quotes that I read on a daily basis that help me serve others in a way that feels out of this world. Remember, we’re out here fighting giants, imposter syndrome, anxiety, and all sorts of problems the world hurls at us. I like to keep my head in the clouds:

When owning a business feels hard and scary:

“Who of you by being worried can add a single hour to your life?” (Matthew 6)
“Don’t worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6)
“Power is perfected in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12)

When I have an important or stressful meeting:

“Let your speech always be with grace, as though season with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.” (Colossians 4)
“Put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander… put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other… Beyond all these thing put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity…” (Colossians 3)

A reminder of my purpose:

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” (Proverbs 3)
“Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. While we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people.” (Galatians 6)
“Do not think more highly of yourself than others… we all have unique gifts, use them accordingly.” (Romans 12)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.metaspeakers.org/
• Instagram: @metafella
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meta-jane-nelson/