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

public speaking

… i gotchu.

in-person and online coaching
smashburn studio
is located in west ridge, chicago

  • 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

“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