SoulfulAmbitions

Whether booked for professional speaking, spoken word, or a combination of both, audiences can expect an engaging and thought-provoking experience designed to connect with the purpose of the event.

My spoken word pieces typically range from 3–5 minutes each, with the number of pieces and overall presentation tailored to the requested performance time. I enjoy interacting with audiences rather than simply performing at them, and my speaking style naturally allows me to move between storytelling, conversation, insight, humor, and spoken word while keeping the audience engaged.

Performances can include selections from my existing body of work or be customized around the theme and message of your event. Original commissioned pieces are also available for organizations looking for spoken word created specifically for their event, campaign, honorees, or audience.

For certain events, theatrical or dramatic elements may also be incorporated to bring a message to life visually. This can range from a brief dramatic element within the presentation to a more developed performance involving acting or additional performers, depending on the scope and needs of the event.

I arrive early enough to coordinate with event staff and complete any necessary sound check. I can provide microphone equipment when needed or work with the venue's existing audio system.

Every engagement is different, so the final presentation is determined by the event's purpose, audience, requested length, and desired experience. Whether you're looking for a powerful standalone spoken word performance, a professional speaker, or an experience that blends both, the goal is always the same: to connect, challenge, engage, and leave the audience with something worth carrying beyond the event.

Lauren D. Armour is a Chicago-raised professional speaker, spoken word artist, author, and creative whose work challenges audiences to think deeper, shift perspective, and recognize what may have been lying dormant within themselves.

Poetically inclined by nature, Lauren has a distinctive ability to blend thought-provoking speaking with spoken word, moving naturally between conversation, storytelling, insight, and performance. Her work explores identity, truth, resilience, hope, human connection, overcoming adversity, and the courage to recognize and embrace what makes each of us different.

Lauren doesn't simply seek to motivate audiences for a moment. Her aim is to challenge perspectives, confront limiting ways of thinking, awaken honest self-reflection, and leave people with something that continues speaking long after the microphone is turned off.

Whether delivering a standalone spoken word performance, speaking to an audience, or combining the two, Lauren tailors each experience to the purpose, audience, and tone of the event. Her delivery can be reflective, humorous, challenging, energetic, intimate, or deeply moving while remaining authentic to the message.

Lauren is available for corporate and nonprofit events, conferences, universities and schools, community and cultural programs, women's events, faith-based gatherings, workshops, panels, and special events. Customized presentations and original commissioned spoken word pieces are also available for organizations seeking an experience developed specifically around their theme or message.

At the heart of Lauren's work is an invitation to speak up, think deeper, recognize yourself, and Delight in Your Difference.

Technical Requirements

My technical requirements are generally minimal and can be adapted to the venue.

Sound: A reliable sound system and microphone are required for speaking and spoken word performances. I can provide a wireless microphone when needed or use the venue's existing microphone and sound system. I prefer to arrive early enough to complete a sound check and coordinate with the event's AV team or designated contact before the program begins.

Stage/Performance Area: A traditional stage is not required, but I do need a clear, safe performance area with enough room for natural movement and audience engagement.

Visuals/Media: Most engagements do not require video, projection, or other visual media. If a customized presentation includes video, audio, or projected material, those needs will be discussed with the organizer in advance to ensure the venue can accommodate them.

Theatrical Elements: Some customized performances may incorporate acting, live dramatic elements, or additional performers. Any additional staging, space, sound, or technical requirements associated with those elements will be communicated and agreed upon in advance.

Lighting: Standard event or stage lighting is generally sufficient. For theatrical or customized presentations requiring specific lighting, those needs will be discussed during planning.

Overall, my standard speaking and spoken word performances are technically simple: clear sound, an appropriate performance space, and adequate visibility for the audience. Any requirements beyond that will be communicated well in advance of the event.