When Lisa Nichols stepped onto the Pendulum Summit stage in 2017, it wasn’t just another keynote, it was a moment. A vibrant, magnetic force of nature, Nichols brought the room to life with her signature mix of storytelling, humour, and deep emotional truth.
She opened with laughter, recounting an unforgettable moment in Dublin when she introduced herself as “Margaret” to a local tour guide – just to disrupt her calmer colleague and friend. But beneath the light-hearted joke was a leadership lesson many miss:
“I’m the helium, she’s the string. That’s how we stay grounded and rise at the same time.”
It was the kind of phrase that lands long after the laughter fades. Because in those words lies one of Lisa’s core messages: You can bring joy, passion, and power into a room, and still be anchored by purpose.
Authenticity Is Your Superpower
Lisa didn’t speak about theory, she spoke from experience. A former single mother who once struggled to afford nappies, she’s now one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in the world. But her journey wasn’t paved with shortcuts or silver spoons. It was built on her willingness to show up as herself, over and over again.
Her humour disarms you, but her story grounds you. At Pendulum, she reminded the audience that your story isn’t something to hide, it’s your bridge to others.
When leaders allow vulnerability, it creates space for others to show up fully. That’s how culture changes. That’s how movements start.
Use Your Voice, Even When It Shakes
Much of Lisa’s success stems from her voice, not just her speaking skills, but her choice to speak up before she felt fully ready, and to own her truth even when it felt risky.
“You don’t have to be perfect to inspire people. You just have to be willing to speak.”
In a time where polished leadership personas often overshadow authenticity, Nichols brought the conversation back to basics: People connect to people, not performance.
Every leader, entrepreneur, or changemaker who has ever held back should hear this loud and clear: Your truth has value. And when shared with intention, it becomes someone else’s permission slip.
Redefining Success: From Hustle to Harmony
Lisa also reflected on the pace of her work and the choices that come with growth. After spending over 300 days on the road the year before, she said:
“This year, I’m being very selective about where I go. Because time… time is precious.”
It’s a subtle but powerful shift – from “busy” as a badge of honour to alignment as a measure of success. This message resonates across industries: not every opportunity deserves your yes. Sometimes, leadership means creating boundaries around your energy.
She reminded the Pendulum audience that success isn’t just about how far you can go, it’s about how well you can live along the way.
Walk Into the Room Without Saying a Word
Nichols reached one of her most powerful moments with this reflection on identity, growth, and unapologetic presence:
🎥 Watch the clip:
It’s a moment that speaks to every person who has ever held back, overexplained, or second-guessed themselves. Lisa’s invitation isn’t just to speak, it’s to show up so fully in your truth that your presence says it all.
The Pendulum Message: Speak Your Truth, Live Your Power
At Pendulum, Lisa Nichols delivered more than motivation. She delivered a moment of realignment, a challenge to be louder, bolder, more authentic, and more intentional.
Whether you’re leading a team, building a business, or reinventing your story, her words still echo:
- Bring your full energy, but stay rooted in your values.
- Be the helium, but never forget the string.
- And most of all: let your truth be heard, even if it shakes the room.
Closing Reflection:
“You’re not here to shrink. You’re here to shine. Even when it’s uncomfortable. Especially then.”
Lisa Nichols didn’t just speak at Pendulum Summit 2017, she showed up, and in doing so, gave others permission to do the same.
Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026
If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content.
Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.
