In today’s world — where everyone seems to be chasing the next big thing, ticking off goals, and living up to some invisible standard — very few people ever stop and wonder: “Is this really me?” Gary Ljamin (Lyamin) did.

A respected name in internet marketing and a successful entrepreneur, Gary spent years helping brands craft their voices and expand their reach. On the surface, everything looked great. But behind the scenes, something deeper was stirring.

“I’ve been asking myself the big questions since I was a kid,” Gary says. “But it wasn’t until I slowed down that I really started listening to them.”

That pause led to something unexpected: a complete shift in focus. Instead of launching another campaign, Gary wrote a book — one that had been forming inside him for years. The result is How to Become the Person You Were Created to Be, a candid, practical guide to reconnecting with your true self.

The book struck a nerve. Readers from all backgrounds began sharing how it helped them reflect, reframe, and start fresh. And unlike many self-help books that lean on abstract advice, Gary’s message is rooted in lived experience — raw, honest, and incredibly relatable.

We sat down with him to talk about what inspired the book, the heart behind its message, and what he hopes readers will carry with them after turning the final page.

What do you hope people will take away from your book, How to Become the Person You Were Created to Be?

Gary: I think a lot of people live lives shaped by other people’s ideas. Society tells us what success is. Parents, even with the best intentions, pass on their fears and expectations. And somewhere along the way, we lose our own voice.

Some people are lucky — they get guidance early on, encouragement to follow their passions. But most of us grow up carrying wounds, limitations, or beliefs that weren’t even ours to begin with. Those things leave marks. They affect how we see the world — and how we see ourselves.

What I want readers to understand is this: you don’t have to keep performing. You don’t have to wear a mask or live in a role that doesn’t fit. You can just be yourself, fully and without apology. And when you begin to accept yourself, when you learn how to love who you really are, the world around you starts to change too. It reflects that energy right back.

My hope is that this book gives people permission to pause, reflect, and re-align. I want it to help them shift out of autopilot. So they’re not just surviving each day, but really living. That shift made all the difference in my life. And I believe it can do the same for others — if they’re willing to go there.

Advertising Week New York 2024 is upon us, marking its 20th year as one of the biggest events for marketers across the globe. From October 16-19, over 17,000 marketing professionals will gather at the Penn District in Midtown Manhattan for four days of panels, networking, and discussions on the latest industry trends. This year’s key themes? The rise of commerce media, the growing influence of AI, and a renewed focus on sports marketing.

The venue, a multi-story complex formerly known as the Manhattan Mall, has been restructured to improve traffic flow and accessibility following last year’s challenges. With 28 content tracks and multiple zones, navigating the event might seem daunting. But with a solid plan in place—and the help of the Advertising Week app—attendees can make the most of the experience.

What’s New in 2024?

Organizers have revamped the venue, creating distinct zones to help attendees target their interests more easily. At the top level, the Leadership Zone will feature major thought leadership panels, with the CMO Lounge serving as a hub for senior marketers.

“We’ve expanded the Great Minds Stage, which now holds twice the number of people compared to last year,” said Ruth Mortimer, global president of Advertising Week. “Feedback from previous events helped guide this change, and we’ve made it easier to get into those must-attend sessions.”

The ground floor will feature podcast studios and the Entertainment Zone, where stages dedicated to creativity and media will take center stage. For marketers looking to boost their businesses, the new Scale Up Lounge will offer resources on personal branding and business growth.

AI and Commerce Media: Key Themes for 2024

While artificial intelligence was the hot topic of last year’s conference, commerce media has taken center stage for 2024. Retailers, ride-hailing apps, and even airlines are increasingly monetizing their digital platforms by offering ad space—creating new revenue streams in the process.

“Commerce media is exploding. More brands are realizing the potential to generate ad revenue from their high-traffic digital channels,” Mortimer explained. “This is no longer just a retail story; we’re seeing it across verticals like travel and tech.”

Panels on AI will continue to explore its integration into marketing strategies, but it’s clear that the technology has shifted from buzzword to practical application. Brands like Hershey, Under Armour, and Moët Hennessy will discuss their AI-powered approaches to consumer engagement.

Special Guests and Events

Star power will be in full force this week, with appearances from celebrities such as Drew Barrymore, Terry Crews, and Michael Strahan expected to draw big crowds. The Future is Female Awards, sponsored by Spotify, will also make its return, recognizing women who are shaping the future of advertising.

Attendees can unwind at the Terminal 5 wrap party, where Eladio Carrión will perform alongside Latin Mafia and Alex Sensation, closing out the event with energy and excitement.

What’s Ahead for Advertising Week?

As it celebrates its 20th anniversary, Advertising Week has proven its staying power by continuously evolving alongside the industry it serves. From traditional advertising to today’s focus on digital and commerce media, the event has adapted to meet the needs of a changing market. Mortimer summed it up well: “We’ve always been about what’s next, and that keeps us connected to the future.”

The event comes at a time when innovations in advertising technology are accelerating. Among these new developments is the recent launch of Medialister, a next-gen platform designed to simplify editorial advertising. As services like Medialister continue to shape the landscape, marketers are offered more tools to reach their audiences effectively.

With this year’s Advertising Week poised to cover a wide range of topics and provide more networking opportunities than ever before, marketers can expect an action-packed few days of insights and connections.

Public speaking is a valuable skill that can open doors to personal and professional success. However, for many, the thought of speaking in front of an audience can be anxiety-inducing. The good news is that with practice and the right techniques, anyone can become a confident and effective public speaker. In this guide, we will explore how to overcome the fear of public speaking and develop the skills needed to master this art.

Understanding the Fear of Public Speaking

Public speaking anxiety, often called glossophobia, is a common fear. It can manifest as nervousness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, or even full-blown panic attacks. Understanding the root causes of this fear is the first step toward overcoming it:

1. Fear of Judgment: Many people worry about how they will be perceived by their audience, fearing judgment or criticism.

2. Lack of Confidence: A lack of confidence in one’s speaking abilities can contribute to anxiety.

3. Perfectionism: Setting unrealistically high standards for oneself can lead to performance anxiety.

4. Past Negative Experiences: A negative past speaking experience can create a fear of repeating that failure.

5. Uncertainty: Not knowing the audience or feeling unprepared can intensify anxiety.

Developing Confidence in Public Speaking

1. Prepare Thoroughly

The more you know your topic, the more confident you’ll feel. Research your subject thoroughly, organize your thoughts, and create a well-structured outline or presentation.

2. Practice, Practice, Practice

Practice your speech multiple times. Rehearse in front of a mirror, record yourself, or present to a trusted friend or family member for feedback.

3. Visualize Success

Mental rehearsal can be a powerful tool. Visualize yourself confidently delivering your speech, receiving positive feedback, and feeling a sense of accomplishment.

4. Control Your Breathing

Deep, slow breaths can calm your nerves. Practice deep breathing exercises before and during your speech to help manage anxiety.

5. Start Small

Build your confidence gradually by speaking in front of smaller, more supportive groups before tackling larger audiences.

6. Focus on Your Message, Not Yourself

Shift your focus from self-doubt to your message and the value you are providing to your audience. Concentrate on how your message can benefit them.

7. Engage with Your Audience

Interact with your audience by making eye contact, asking questions, and encouraging participation. This creates a more engaging and less intimidating atmosphere.

8. Use Visual Aids Wisely

Visual aids, such as slides or props, can enhance your presentation. However, use them sparingly and ensure they complement your message rather than distract from it.

9. Embrace Imperfections

Accept that nobody is perfect, and even experienced speakers make mistakes. Embrace any slip-ups with humor or grace, and keep going.

10. Seek Professional Training

Consider enrolling in a public speaking course or working with a speaking coach to improve your skills and confidence.

Managing Nervousness

Even with preparation and practice, nervousness before speaking is natural. Here are some strategies to manage it:

1. Arrive Early: Arriving early allows you to familiarize yourself with the venue and test any equipment.

2. Use Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or meditation can help calm your nerves.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drink water to prevent a dry mouth, which is a common physical manifestation of anxiety.

4. Avoid Caffeine: Limit caffeine intake on the day of your speech, as it can exacerbate nervousness.

5. Focus on Your Message: Keep your attention on the content and value of your speech, rather than your anxiety.

6. Use Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations to boost your confidence.

Continued Improvement

Becoming a confident public speaker is an ongoing process. Here are some tips for continued improvement:

1. Record Your Speeches: Recording your speeches allows you to review your performance and identify areas for improvement.

2. Seek Feedback: Encourage constructive feedback from peers or mentors to refine your speaking skills.

3. Set Speaking Goals: Continuously challenge yourself by setting goals for speaking engagements or skill development.

4. Join a Toastmasters Club: Toastmasters International is a renowned organization that helps individuals improve their public speaking skills through practice and feedback.

In Conclusion

Public speaking is a skill that can be mastered with time and effort. By understanding the root causes of your fear, preparing thoroughly, practicing regularly, and implementing confidence-boosting techniques, you can become a confident and effective public speaker. Remember that it’s normal to feel nervous, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can turn that nervous energy into a powerful tool for engaging and inspiring your audience.