A MOMENT CAPTURED

Tiffany Brown, Las Vegas Sun

Monday, Nov. 13, 2006 | 7:33 a.m.

These two empty microphones faced the winners - and losers - at the Democratic election party at Caesars Palace Tuesday night.

But it's a scene that reaches beyond politics.

For some, stepping up to the mic is pure dread. A thousand eyes on you and you alone, the lights beating down, the pin-drop silence filled only with your words - and an occasional cough. For others, it's a chance to own the spotlight, spill their thoughts and opinions and bask in the attention.

Here is what three accomplished speakers had to say about their experiences at the podium.

Tony Robbins, motivational speaker and self-described "World Authority on Leadership Psychology"

"I think the only time someone has stress when they are standing in front of a podium is when they are thinking about themselves and how they are coming across. When you really truly focus on your audience and what are its needs and if you only speak about things that you truly believe and are passionate about, then things tend to flow pretty effortlessly."

David Figler, Clark County attorney

"When I argue in front of juries I will have my notes on the podium but I won't restrict myself to the physical space of the podium. The podium will be there as my friend. ... When you walk away from the podium you sort of break down the rule psychologically, and it has an impact for better or for worse, so it's all very interesting how the podium is really a focal point because there is a lot of power and energy that comes off of it. As far as the nervousness goes, I think in those settings (not in front of the Supreme Court) it becomes less of an intimidating force and more a source of comfort."

Elaine Schwartz, barista at Starbucks on Tropicana and Decatur

"I was in theater for 12 years and then I decided to join the debate team when I was in college. I think it's empowering to be in front of people and to be able to express yourself and make eye contact with a thousand different people at the same time. It really makes you feel like you're expressing yourself on a scale that you usually don't get a chance to do. ... It's fun. I like talking in front of people and being the center of attention. I think public speaking is important for kids, and I think speech should be a part of junior high school, right before you get to high school. Because if you learn to love it, or not be scared of it, it's a good thing."

tiffany.brown@lasvegassun.com