
If you’re seeking someone to speak to your group or organization about the pitfalls of running a businesses or ways to build a stronger rapport with clients and customers, Marcia Pledger has an ability to connect with audiences in a personable, engaging and friendly style. A long-time business journalist, she uses stories shared by entrepreneurs to drive home inspiring messages about what it takes to turn setbacks into comebacks.
Booking Marcia for your next speaking engagement is easy… please download the speaking form, or contact Marcia for more information.
“Marcia Pledger is an intelligent, dynamic and engaging speaker who actually knows what she’s talking about. With fascinating stories pulled from her recently published book, My Biggest Mistake … Lessons from the Entrepreneurial Front Lines, Marcia is a rare combination of style and substance, she’s a serious journalist with a genuine sense of humor. I’d highly recommend her.”
Dr. Tom Lix Director, Center for Entrepreneurship Visiting Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship Lake Erie College
“Marcia presents a refreshing way to look at how we “handle our businesses,” with a friendly approach when she speaks. And, of course, culturally we retain what we learn so much better with stories. In her book, the well-crafted stories are listed by sections that make looking for your area of interest easy. Kudos on a great concept.”
Carolyn Ray Realtor -Century 21 Upland, CA.
“Marcia has a passion for small business and it was evident when she spoke at one of our monthly luncheons. Attendees were entertained by stories from interviews she’s conducted for her column, “My Biggest Mistake,” and enlightened by how these companies fixed issues. Many of our members found that they faced similar challenges, and could learn from other businesses. Her enthusiasm, humor and ability to connect with the audience made it a great event.”
Wayne Lawrence Executive Director Beachwood Chamber of Commerce
“Marcia Pledger’s ability to tell the stories of small business owners and how they have met and conquered challenges has been most valuable to me, even with my 22+ years of small business ownership. I have read Marcia’s column and had the privilege of hearing her speak both about entrepreneur’s mistakes and business etiquette. I always walk away with something I can use to guide me with management changes necessary to keep my company on the right path. Her new book, “My Biggest Mistake and How I Fixed It,” should be on the reading list for all entrepreneurs!
Judi Roth, President and CEO, CRSN Inc. Past President of National Association of Women Business Owners -Cleveland
“I had the good fortune of asking Marcia Pledger to come and speak to a group of hospitality professionals about business etiquette. With little notice, and a very sore throat, Marcia delivered a witty, funny and meaningful address to the group that was relevant to today’s social media world. There were many takeaways from her speech that went with the group, leaving them better informed than when they arrived. Marcia is a consumate professional, adapting her delivery to match with the theme of the day and the type of audience. I would not hesitate to call upon her again to provide her vision of the way she views the business world, and I am confident that everyone who has the opportunity to hear her will be enriched by it.”
M. Kelly Brewer, consultant and former vice president of sales, Positively Cleveland
“Marcia Pledger is a dynamic speaker and a genuine human being.I have heard her speak at two different Chamber events and watched her interact at different networking events. Her enthusiastic personality is a definite asset. She’s passionate with an ability to mix humor with serious subjects….Any entrepreneur can definitely get something out of reading her book.”
Paula A. Tresger Senior Sales Consultant Ahola Payroll Services




