The Speaker Lab Podcast Building Your Off Ramp: From Corporate to Full-Time Speaking with Velera Wilson
Jan 20, 2026
Velera Wilson, a former corporate executive turned full-time speaker, shares her inspiring journey and practical insights. She discusses the importance of building an 'off ramp' for transitioning careers and why a book isn't necessary for speaking success. Velera emphasizes leveraging existing skills, the power of community, and the need for resilience during slow seasons. She candidly reflects on the balance of corporate expectations and pursuing passions, offering listeners actionable strategies to navigate their own transitions.
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Clear Audience And Topic Focus
- Velera Wilson positions herself as a speaker for leaders and teams to increase confidence, performance, and navigate change.
- She primarily books associations, corporations, and universities as clients.
Book Sparked On-Stage Revelation
- A book idea came to Velera after speaking as U.S. ambassador at a women in tech accelerator event and she wrote the outline in a week.
- The book led to speaking and training opportunities while she stayed in corporate.
Focus On Bookings Over Book Sales
- Prioritize bookings over book sales because speaking fees replace a salary more directly than book royalties.
- Treat a book as a credibility asset, not the primary revenue engine.
