supportive, judgement-free speaker and personal narrative coach
for groups, individuals and corporate organizations

public
speaking

… i gotchu.

in-person and online coaching

  • explore small, impactful techniques to ensure your powerful story or message comes across

  • line memorization and teleprompter

  • audio and visual settings check

  • wardrobe assistance and last looks

  • breath work and breath support

  • confidence

smashburn studio is located in west ridge, chicago

💥 let's get started!💥

“Marika is more useful than a Swiss army knife. Investing in yourself is essential for growth in any endeavor and her talent, experience and insight are a great asset to help you level up. Marika adds value, whether you are a pro or just starting out.”

— Wayne T. Carr
public speaker, educator

“You’re the best. I feel so much more like myself when I do this work and it is unbelievably helpful to have the encouragement.”

Sarah Giovannetti
communications, development

“I wanna testify from years of experience coaching with Marika…
CALL SMASHBURN!”

J. Nicole Brooks
actor, director, playwright

“Her ability to draw out [one’s] natural instincts…leaves space for creativity and personal choice.”

Collin Quinn Rice
photographer

“KILLER coach. As in, she will help you slay…the perfect combo of industry savvy and just good direction. You’re welcome.”

Stephanie Diaz
actor, puppeteer

“Marika has a rare, innate ability to focus your work towards the truth. Her deep understanding of character and story, along with unique empathy, make her one of the best coaches I’ve ever had.”

Adam Bartley
actor

“Marika immediately puts me at ease by handling the ‘tech’ side so I can focus on being an actor. Keen insights, guiding me through intention and tactics to create a more nuanced audition. I always feel that I leave taping sessions as if I’d had a mini acting class.”

Paul Brian Fagen
social worker, filmmaker