Agreed on all points Rachel. If you enjoy what you do then you should be able to speak without fearing repercussions. Event organisers get speakers because of what they know not how they look and the vast majority of the industry are behind everyone, that’s how we learn by hearing different view points.

To those who don’t like women speakers a) if you think you could do better the try it, it’s not as easy as it looks and b) if you were speaking and someone commented on your appearance or family like that, how would you feel? It’s plain bullying at the end of the day. If your child or loved one was being picked on you wouldn’t stand for it so dont do it to others. It’s childish and the industry will happily carry on without you.

I do hope it doesn’t put anyone off because we are all behind you. I couldn’t think of a better industry to be in.