The a16z Show · Friday, July 17, 2026
Replit CEO Amjad Masad shared his personal journey of overcoming severe stage fright, which included taking improv and storytelling classes. He advocates for 'exposure therapy,' suggesting that repeatedly making oneself uncomfortable in public speaking situations is key to building confidence.
“And I remember I was in New York when I first came to the States, and I had a terrible stage fright.”
“I went and I took improv classes in New York. And then took a storytelling class, and I'm like a big fan of exposure therapy.”
“Anything you're afraid of, just go do more of it until you desensitize.”