top of page

A Saturday Spent with Bold Entrepreneurs

  • Writer: Lisa Liberatore
    Lisa Liberatore
  • 4 days ago
  • 2 min read



I had the chance to spend my Saturday with over 20 entrepreneurs and a handful of mentors through Maine Center for Entrepreneurs Top Gun program. The Bangor region’s cohort is made possible thanks to UpStart Maine, and I get to serve as the Regional Coordinator—basically, I have the privilege of working alongside some of the most creative, driven people building seriously cool companies.


Yesterday’s session featured Tim Ferrell, who brought a unique energy to the room. He had each entrepreneur stand up—with no slides—and deliver their five-minute pitch. No podium. No screen. Just them and their story.


And wow. The difference was striking.


Before Tim’s session, I had watched these same founders give their pitches with slides and podiums. I didn’t realize how much the slides were pulling focus until I saw one founder present without them—and it all clicked. I could actually see her story unfold. I understood her growth strategy so much more clearly. It was a powerful reminder that sometimes, less really is more.


“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” — Leonardo da Vinci

Tim’s feedback on posture, projection, and body language was spot-on. But the advice I keep playing over in my head is this: Slow down. Talk like you’re sitting at a kitchen table with someone. You’re just having a conversation.


So many of the pitches were delivered at warp speed—some without a single breath. Sure, they wrapped up well under five minutes, but in the rush, a lot got lost.


Slides can be powerful tools. But you are the main event. Your voice, your presence, and your story should lead the way. Let the visuals support you—not compete for attention.

It was an energizing day, and I walked away reminded that the simplest shift in how we show up can make all the difference.


🗓️ Upcoming Events

Top Gun Regional Pitch-Offs are coming up fast! Come cheer on these incredible founders as they share what they’ve been building.


🎉 Maine Entrepreneurs Summit – May 16thA great way to connect, celebrate, and learn from some of the best in the state. Register here

 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page