MC with MEi

“MC with MEi” was always designed to ultimately be an audio and interactive course in public speaking, specializing for the Master of Ceremony. With the completion of this final session in the PodCourse, I encourage you to keep the MC with MEi 20-sessions for future reference.  If you subscribe and download the series then it will forever be available to you on-line anytime wherever you have been following along already. Remember, at www.masterofceremonies.ca you will have access to me anytime online for questions, suggestions for future podcast “Dailies” ideas and to keep me up to speed with hope you are progressing.  So let's wrap this up; here we root out the behind-the-scenes work that we do as Masters of Ceremonies for a wedding that, because nobody has a clue is even happening, sometimes can unfortunately undervalue the necessity of looking beyond a DJ or invited guest to represent the biggest day in the lives of 2 people, 2 families and a history of friends. Sounds insane, I know; this is why we're here to tear open the curtain to reveal the truth behind how it is we do what we do.  “We Are The Great And Mighty OZ!!” haha. (If you never saw “The Wizard of Oz” then that last bit will not make sense :-)   My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

This is it! The 2-part finale of what has been the 20-session/20-Minute PodCourse from “MC with MEi”. My goal was, in the year 2020, to sharpen your 20-20 vision toward what it REALLY is to be a professional public speaker and, more specifically, a Master of Ceremonies Specialist.  Now that I have extinguished all of my 2020 references, these final 2 sessions we dedicate all focus on the ONE event that happens millions of times a day all over the world, The Wedding. I will outline to future Masters of Ceremonies just what it takes to excel at this very specialized category of opportunity AND make it crystal clear to brides, grooms, and wedding coordinators just why it is critical that you employ a true Master of Ceremonies at the mic for your once-in-a-lifetime occasion that you will want to remember fondly forever. We've all been to the wedding reception that everyone laughed about afterward for how awful it was and it is normally because the person on the mic was woefully incapable of living up to the requirements. If you are a DJ or invited guest who has been tapped on the shoulder to be a wedding MC, you need these 2 sessions. I'm only here to help! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

This session will fit independently but, obviously, could also play a co-op role with any of the event scenarios described in this phase of the PodCourse.  And with the arrival of the year 2020, expect going forward that many events, of all sorts, will gravitate to the “Roaring 20’s” theme ...you may as well invest in a flapper dress or tuxedo now :-)  Never ever underestimate the scope and precariousness of a Themed event. It may on the surface appear like a good bit of fun in costume. BUT if you ignore the many critical details I discuss today in this session, you will find out very quickly that you are woefully unprepared. Let's not have that happen to you. I the following 20 short minutes, I cover tips techniques and hidden secrets that normally you are only aware of when you've been at this a long time. And I offer case study examples from my own work, including mistakes I've made that I do not want anyone else making because they are too easy to fall into. Welcome Aboard the Theme Night! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Live bands are a big part of many events. They can compliment an occasion or they can actually BE the primary draw; the event themselves. You have to be ready for anything and tailoring your delivery to each scenario is critical. In this session, I recount at least 4 different situations that required a different approach so it's important that you take note of why they differed and why they were necessary in each scenario. I discuss passive vs active eye contact and how to use it to your advantage. I discuss a different microphone technique that we haven't touched on yet in this series but it is important. And I breakdown the many differences between the indoor vs the outdoor concert setting. Aside from the obvious, you will be surprised at how many missed details can lead to potential disaster for the event, and therefore for you as the Master of Ceremonies. But hey, that's what makes what we do so exciting, isn't it? My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

The word “Corporate” is right in the title; many of these events that I outline here can be part of your calendar year if you exceed expectations for a company doing one event.  Corporations like to win and will back a winner and stick with a winner. PLUS there are many companies who may hold several different events each year, opening doors for your potential.  The Corporate Christmas Party does not need to be the gong-show you dread or have seen in R-rated movies. This is that gift at the end of the year from whomever you are employed as a thank you for the year's efforts. There a myriad of reasons why this is as critical an event as there is; and the irony is, most who put these events on may not even be aware themselves of why. I worked for a brilliant leader who once in passing told me why it was so important to him that his company feel enough to attend and then have a great time. I never forgot his words and it has gone in to EVERY company holiday party I have been responsible for. We will laugh a lot and learn a lot in this session. Please enjoy responsibly :). My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

This is THE single most neglected major event where hiring someone professional to be held accountable for the outcome of the end result is concerned. The irony here is that many Charitable initiatives are driven by a Corporation of some sort so you’d think they would know by now that anything less than a professional to deliver a professional product never ends well...or at least as well as you needed it to be considering all that went into organizing and preparing for the event.  All “that time”, all “that money”, all “that marketing”, all “that reputation”; all “that opportunity” to maximize fundraising potential, all lost! It won't be this way when a professionally trained and experienced Master of Ceremonies is hired to make it all work and exceed expectations. This is THE session that fund-raising committees and chair-people need to download and listen to. AND, if you are an aspiring Master of Ceremonies, or you need to master this type of event, we hold no punches here. Buckle up; it's a deep dive with this one! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Corporations are normally those behind Awards Galas so everything you learned in Session #13 can apply here.  The Awards Gala means everything to the organizer and the company they represent. For any company to dedicate this amount of financial, resource and time expense means that they want this perfect. This is from the company, FOR the company. However, still with this much at stake, oftentimes these committees will have either the company president host it or they will get "that person" from within who may be an office-place comedian to act as the master of ceremonies. They find fast that there is a whole universe "behind the mic" that they didn't count on. That is where we come in! BUT we have to be heads and shoulders better than all other alternatives; in this session we find out how. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

The PodCourse is into the 2nd phase of the training: “The Scenarios”.  We will cover each of the event types that you would likely be sought for and hired to lead. We will draw on the information from these first 12 sessions as we explore each scenario one-by-one. The corporate engagement is the most prolific, sought after and actually the most available. The bigger the company, the more regularly they hold events and, therefore,  know the value of qualified "role players". But you have to know what you are doing and you have to exceed expectations or your time with this client will be short. You know the old saying: "what do you get for that person who has everything"? Well same optics apply here; "how can I impress a committee or board who have likely seen it all already"? Believe me "THEY AIN'T SEEN NOTHING YET"! Subscribe today and let's open some eyes! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.  

This is the end of the “Prep Sessions”! We've covered what it takes to get you the gig, now you need to impress at the gig. What if I told you that I could see the future and be able to see an entire timeline of events from start to finish, before it even happens, would you take that bet? In this session, I outline all that you need to look for and prep for to get you from "Welcome" to "Good Night". Think you know all there is that could go wrong...think again. I have situations that you could not have anticipated unless you have already spent years in this business. You are going to love this episode...lots went wrong...and it's a great laugh while we learn how to not let this happen to you.   Starting next session (Session 13-20), we will cover each of the event types that you would likely be sought for and hired to lead. We will draw on the information from these first 12 sessions as we explore each scenario one-by-one. This is why subscribing to MC with MEi is essential; you will have everything to draw on and refer back to...like a book. The only way you succeed at any of the event scenarios coming up is by being prepared; so this session is a key.   My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to. Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link. Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message. And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”. This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

All events hinge on "the sum of the whole". You are part of a team, so integrating yourself into the crew on site is AS important as when you called that consultation meeting and then insisted on attending a logistics meeting with the committee. A massive component, and the area where the most money is invested by any organizing committee, is the venue; but more to the point, the food. No one remembers what the venue looked like but they will always recall the food if it was lousy, or regale it if it was truly brilliant cuisine! This is as much to do with the quality of the service on the floor and in the kitchen as it is the quality of the actual food. BUT the service depends on coordination of the Dining Room Manager (or Maitre'D)....and for THAT reason they depend on YOU conducting the actual flow of the events. You now just lifted the weight of the night onto your shoulders by the way :). Buckle up! - You will need this session of “MC with MEi: The PodCourse” to move on. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to. Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link. Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message. And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”. This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Remember that old Sprite Soda ad where the slogan is “Image is NOT Everything”?  This session flies in the face of that logic. It is a reality of public speaking or any sort of public presentation or exhibition: “To Play the Part, You Must Look The Part”.  The way you carry yourself begins with your appearance; it can be fickle but this is no different than any other type of performing arts.  Bottom line is, for this Session, this is NOT a fashion advice episode!! Not even close. But there is a strategy to play a role and look the part. Not unlike film or stage actors; when you are cast in the role of Master of Ceremonies, what separates you from the "pretenders" is how you "own" each role. This, for many, is the make-or-break factor for whether or not they get re-hired by that group or committee. You have to care. But first you have to know how to play this to win this. You will win with this PodCast Session #10 of MC with MEi! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Part 2 of the "events of scale" series concludes this week. In Session #8 week we discussed how to make the massive event feel intimate and in this Session #9 we do it in reverse. You have a gathering of 20, 30, 40 or a few more but they want it to have "the feel" that it was a grand scale event. Again, NOT impossible! I get into the mindset, and the vision you need to be prepared. I also arm you with the questions to ask at the consultation and even what you need to be on the lookout for when you get to the event before any guests arrive. All this PLUS I give you my favourite activity that can be used as an ice-breaker, team builder, monetary fundraiser and tactic to just open the scope of the venue itself. This is a BIG episode so maybe be ready to either take notes or play it back a couple of times. This discussion will take you to the "next level". My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device. 

This is a special 2-part session because it deals with the same subject principles but mirror opposite effects.  When looking at scale, we look at size comparison; “events of scale” is the comparison of event size.  In this session of “The PodCourse”, the challenge for Part 1 is holding the attention of a large scale gathering in a way that it feels like a more intimate setting. Is it magic? No, but it is strategy and focus and grace. I outline not only the very rudimentary techniques to achieve this seemingly "mission impossible", but I also delve into the far more technical and specialized points of reference. This is very “high-level” stuff now, but it all fits in its place. I also have a case study that I believe will bring it all to live in vivid colour. This is part 1 of "Scale to Measure" where next week, we make that smaller gathering feel massive. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

This session of "MC with MEi: The PodCourse" we take a knee for inspiration.  Not an inspirational message; you don’t need that from me; no, this is to reflect back on who we have always aspired to be like in our dreams to take the mic, walk a stage and control  an audience’s attention. We all have heroee, those we dream to be just like one day, doing what they do, what we are equally as passionate about. However, when we emulate those we revere, we find it works in reverse and we fall flat. Be inspired but always be yourself; remember who has the mic. I dive into this topic and relate it to my inspirations; who knows, we might even have the same heroes.  You will find out right now on MC with MEi. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Pop quiz! If you are the Master of Ceremonies, does that make YOU the star of the function? Answer: NOT EVEN CLOSE! You as the hired Master of Ceremonies are neither the host of the event, nor the reason a ticket was purchased. If this comes as a shock, I explain everything in this session of “MC with MEi: The PodCourse” We've all witnessed this; the wedding emcee, the DJ, the office funny person asked to play this role, and yes, sometimes even the actual "talent" who is in place to facilitate the agenda from the podium; they tend to think that with a mic, it's time for prepared anecdotes, inside jokes, backhanded remarks and stories that go on without any regard for flow, timing, or general over-all audience interest. For YOU in this session, I make it plain; for YOU the event coordinator or Committee Chair; I make it crystal clear what you should be looking for. This session is where we check our egos at the door; now it gets “real” up in here! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Time Management is an “everyday thing”, but it gets finer tuned when you are not only responsible for your timing but the timing of every moving part in a calculated sequence of events.  The gala ticket features a hefty price tag as well as the name of a star speaker or entertainer. Guests can’t wait to not only see this Main Attraction but then MEET them afterward for an autograph and photo. Your Goal: The reason your event is sold-out needs to start on time in order to deliver a full performance and then make the post-show meet and greet. It’s not a Mission Impossible because in this session of the PodCourse we begin drawing on the techniques of Sessions 2 to 4 to build the strategy for the challenges we will explore in this Session #5. And to make it easy to follow, I relate it to an example from my career that is a fun story as well. Alright now, time is of the essence...let's get to it! My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

This PodCourse will start to ramp up in it’s intensity here.  I will start moving deeper into actual technique for when you are in action on the job.  Remember that dinner you attended that started and ended late and you couldn’t hear anything hopping on stage because those around you were chatting all night long? Hell, you would have bid more on that auction item had you known it was closing. Waste of time and money; "I’m never going to THAT event again". We've all said that and we've heard others say it as well. In this scenario EVERYONE loses! In this session, we make sure this never ever happens to you! I have techniques that I have developed over the decades that work all the time but they take practice; lots of patience and practice. But it works.  Crowd control is not what you may think it is so seeing the big picture is power.   My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.  

First of all, I explain what that term means and where it originated; it's actually rather hilarious. There is a massive difference between someone who is engaged in the event that they are speaking on behalf of and someone who is going through the motions. People who "go through the motions", do so because they have either volunteered their time, been told they are doing it by an employer, been thrown in as part of a "package" or have been volunteered for. In this session, I make it very clear to future Masters of Ceremonies and event coordinators and committees, the critical difference between someone who can be financially held accountable and one who risks nothing because there is nothing tangible on the line. I have actually had this said to me on many occasions when being sought out so I find it necessary to share this with you.  Organizers realize this reality and then look for a professional. Look at it this way, not anyone can just drop in and do your full time job, why are we assuming any different of such a specialized and critical position? Sadly, this happens ALL THE TIME because so many organizers and committees think they're doing their cause or company a service by saving money. But this is the polar opposite as we have seen. I will also Illustrate how to be that respected and accountable MC; follow these steps and tasks and you will will be sought after over time. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.  

This week we get down to it! I share what I did to get hired. Then, more importantly, I make it clear what is necessary to stay hired and get noticed. I speak to future Masters of Ceremonies, but I also spend a lot of time speaking directly to event coordinators, committee chairs and event centres to make it pretty obvious the difference between what we do vs. just getting anyone to lead the sequence of events that has cost a lot of time and money to plan. I have made my mistakes and I continue to learn, but I have also witnessed way too many unnecessary mishaps at events that were supposed to either raise money, raise awareness or just be a celebration and it all goes sour because it simply does NOT have someone at the podium with experience. This is a critical episode; you really need this one for the rest to make sense. I will not be able to say that of many episodes; but this is definitely the one. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to.  Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link.  Like and follow me on Twitter @MCwithMEi and send notes to me that way either in a conversation or as a direct message.  And don’t forget to Subscribe to MCwithMEi so you have every PodCourse session as well as all the other releases from “MC with MEi”.  This way you can follow along or download anything you want and not take up any data on your wireless device.

Welcome to MC with MEi! I have been a professional Master of Ceremonies since 1996. I have grown my business and developed my craft with every event I have been hired for close to 25 years so far. I have grown to also specialize in Hosting events and also guest speaking at functions as well. If you do not see the difference in your approach immediately, you will with this PodCourse 20-session series. This is Session 1, where I introduce myself to you and lay out the expectations. My credentials? Look me up at www.masterofceremonies.ca and play the videos, browse the photos and watch my short animated video intros for each of the sessions in this series; they are fun and easy to follow. This way you know which sessions are right for you without having to listen to them all if you do not need to. Click on photos for the stories behind the situations captured. I am always available for hire as a Master of ceremonies for your events, key note on the "Science Behind The Podium", and if you would prefer a more one-on-one or one-on-group approach to this course, I can accommodate most requests for that as well. Just send me a note on my "Contact MEi" link NEXT SESSION - Session 2: "How To Get Started". Next session gets into the voice; effective speaking as well as effective listening. I have taught courses at 2 Ontario Colleges here in the Greater Toronto Area of Canada. I also delve lightly into how to get a crowd under your control. Spooky huh? It's not what it sounds like :) . LOL .

Welcome to MC with MEi: The PodCourse!! I have remixed and remastered the first 20 episodes of the podcast into what they were designed to be ultimately; an on-line course. This is now a 20 Session on-line Course where each session is an easy-to-digest 20 minutes or so. Each has a short intro as not everybody approaches sessions the same way and I wanted to make sure that no matter where you happen to start or jump to, there are road markers along the way keeping you up to speed. Episodes 1-12 are dedicated to preparation; we cover everything from basics to specifics. Sessions 13-20 are the many different functions you may be hired to cover. We look at scenarios and dive into real life case studies from actual events. They are all real because they are all either events I was responsible for or I attended. You DO NOT need to listen to each session in order; it will all depend on your level of expertise going in. If you are starting out, that's AMAZING!! This is so much fun what you want to do!! So I suggest that if you are new and really want to know this biz, listen to sessions 1-12 in order, then 13-20 can be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Best part is that because they are on most pod-catchers you can subscribe for free and then download them all and therefore save on data while listening to these in any order and as often as you like. Please never hesitate to reach out to me with questions, requests or any related inquiries via my website www.masterofceremonies.ca. While there check out the videos, pictures and testimonials; everything there is from something I have worked on and have included somewhere in this course. I'm also on Twitter @mcwithmei. Above all, have fun! Christopher Mei

We are NOTHING if we can't tell a good story. Now this is not one that starts "Once Upon A Time...". No, this is taking an audience on a journey so that there is a payoff for all in attendance at the end...and for the event coordination committee or Chair. The audience finds a concrete meaning in why they were there and wish to attend next year, and that is where you as a Master of Ceremonies Specialist are always more valuable than any amount you could ever be paid. There is storytelling everywhere...today I lift the covers off some of the areas where story telling is right there hiding in plain sight. Then we get onto how you can harness this amazing power and wield it to be the best option for any event as their Master of Ceremonies.

Knowing when to take that moment for pause is critical. It takes discipline and a fine trust in yourself as a speaking specialist. If you can harness the "power of the pause" then you can control a room. Too long and you lose an audience. Never take one and you lose an audience. It's like finding the sweet spot in gear 1 of a standard transmission; when you can roll the car you can control the car even on the steepest of hills. If you can craftly weave a "period of pause" to drive home a point or get a rooms attention....you my friend are a master of ceremonies Specialist! Lets figure out how.....

Testimonials are your calling card to the next interest in you. When you shop, you normally start your look based on a testimonial: tv or radio ad, word of mouth, flyer, coupon. But bottom line is that you buy because someone told you they'd bought it and liked it. The testimonial from those you have worked for is like that commercial; that celebrity endorsement. You earned it so feel confident asking for it...then post it! Everywhere. Today we open with a testimonial sent to me from one of the events I had just hosted and told you about in the latest "Dailies". Then we break down how it got there.

There are so many techniques and approaches to overcoming the nerves that accompany public speaking. Today I cover one of those and it ties back to this week's theme of "delivery". Yesterday was "To Read or Not To Read"; today is using the leverage of your notes or script that you have as the Master of Ceremonies. You will be shocked to find how you can use the magnitude of your responsibility as the very tool to overcoming the nerves you may feel when approaching your responsibility. Have an awesome weekend!! If you're gigging tonight or this weekend, let us know about it on Twitter @MCwithMEi or at www.masterofceremonies.ca.

I little play on Shakespeare is good for the soul :-). Too often we see speakers reading straight from their pages; all we see are head-crowns and rarely any eyes. Eye contact is essential for that connection with your audience, but so is getting the material right. What do you do? Everyone struggles with this so today we discuss what balance ratio is optimal for you to be able to read what needs to be verbatim without LOOKING like you are reading at all. It's a similar illusion to how Michael Jordan looked like he was actually flying in the air while launching for a dunk.

There are as many fraudulent speakers out there as there are organizations. I would wager that for every organization that hires a speaker and then vanishes without paying, there is a person who claims to have an amount of experience that is exaggerated or embellished. The issue with fraudulent speakers is that many don't think what they are doing is wrong so they get the gig and fail and they never hire again....we all lose. Today is as much for the ORGANIZER as it is for the speaker. Do Your Homework! Now sing with me "We Won't Get Fooled Again! No No!" Enjoy today's "Daily".

The Concert Event known as "Grenville Pinto and Friends" had its second date this past weekend. 2 weeks ago it was a sold out affair in Hamilton, Ontario....this time we hit Toronto. The cast was a helluva-lot bigger and the song selection was bigger. Plus the venue was a lot larger as well so we had to really bring our A+ game to 1-keep it on time, 2-keep it compelling and engaging and 3-create an atmosphere that no-one wanted to leave immediately afterward from but instead stay and continue to celebrate in the entrance atrium. MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!~ This episode is an example of why I love to do what I do....and you will too.

A local branch of the Canadian Passport Office had their annual Holiday Party and it required that I dedicate all I outlined in 2 of my PodCourse Sessions: "The Small Event Made Massive" and "The Corporate Holiday Party". If you have not listened to those 2 episodes yet, I'd invite you to do so. This way when you listen to this "Daily", it will make perfect sense and you may even have the "A-Ha Moment" you were looking for. (Hint: 30 people but a dance floor that stayed hopping 'till 12:30am)

Somehow I got locked out of my account for a couple of days but it has been resolved. Please enjoy this one-time-only "Saturday Edition" of the "Philosophy Friday". This is the end-off-week session where we simply discuss the psychology behind speaking in front of people, regardless of the size of the gathering. Have a GREAT weekend!! See you again on Monday!

YIKES!! This can be an anxiety attack ready to happen; but it shouldn't be. Those who chose to be malcontents or disruptions to an evening are NOT your problem! Today we discuss how a loud mouth schnook can build character, confidence and even your reputation for strength and poise. AND I relate a story from recently where I was cornered by an audience member at an intermission and how that played out. You need to hang out with us for this one :-).

No one ever went into medieval battle with just one arrow! Few become professional athletic stars by only ever playing one sport their whole life. And no one has ever become a successful public speaker by practicing just one discipline. Today we talk about the varied disciplines in this field and how they all correlate and compliment one another. AND we discuss how some proficiency at many can help tremendously with the one you specialize in.

Normally a phrase reserved for sports. The "pace of play" dictates the offence in soccer, football, hockey and basketball...and id controlled by the defence in baseball. They who control or dictate the pace of play are normally victorious. In public speaking it is exactly the same way; if you as the Master of ceremonies have control over the pace of the flow that the evening follows then every event should start on time, end on time and the overall guest satisfaction should be as high as possible. Lets dedicate a few minutes to the comparison between the "pace of play" as a speaker with that of a professional footballer.

I once had a comedian take me under his wing and taught me how to search for and find "my voice". I didn't understand what he meant at first but it dawned on me years later when I had realized that I indeed have a unique "voice" that differentiated me from everyone else doing what I do. We cover that today. Comedy aside, and that is NOT what this episode is about, with a voice comes confidence, and from confidence comes the ability to be creative. And we are a creative people.

It starts with YOU. You've heard that before everywhere from TV ads to messages scrawled on public toilet walls. But I take a radically different spin. This is the start of a new component of "MC with Mei: The Dailies"; welcome to the new regular "Motivational Fridays". Today to close the week, and send you frolicking off for the weekend, I walk you through who really matters and who you really need to feel comfortable with as an audience member. Hint Hint! - This edition is titled "Mirror Mirror".

Too many do this "because that's the way we've always done it". Unacceptable! There a myriad ways to stage an event and achieve success so we all need to step back and see the forest for the trees. Today's "Daily" is a suggestion as to how organizers can retain much more money raised for their charity and how all events, that have a densely packed program, can still keep their total running time to under 4 hours from reception to teardown.

There is a virus among those who are asked to conduct an interview. We've all witnessed it; on radio, television; in sports, entertainment, music and even economics! It's like the Zombie Apocalypse of a once proud and informational medium of broadcast. It is now being laid to waste by this awful tragic wave that has overcome the industry. But you can rise above this all and bring balance to the galaxy (maybe a bit too strong). If you are a really good public speaker then you will want to open up your options for booking and you will find this being asked of you.

You are hired by a charity event but you do not get your normal asking fee and they can not offer any more money. There is a way where all parties can still benefit but it has to be done right. They who have hired you must be legally registered as a charity and they must have the experience to do this. Follow along, it's a procedure but if you understand it, it can help a lot.

The is SOOOO much more than just an intro of an act for the concert event. Then it is "next level" when it is an event that includes 10 guest artists, who all need to be recognized BUT the show still has to start and end on time OR no merchandise moves. This is a TALL mountain to scale but it is totally doable if you plan to scale the agenda. And that can only happen if you are invested in the event with the organizer and work together to map it out for time. Today I rap out how we got this done.....which is good....cuz we are doing it again in 2 weeks for another sold-out crowd in Toronto!!

This is the part of the job I like the least...not the getting paid part....the asking to get paid part. It is easily the most uncomfortable for us as Masters of Ceremonies and Public Speakers, at large, because we are drivers of the energy and attention and fun and emotion. How does the "fun guy" then switch the tone to "business guy" without spoiling the mood or appear phone? The secret is that we are all over-thinking it! Today on "The Dailies" we brief on some techniques I've learned from very well established: MCs, DJ companies, photographers, videographers, entertainers, keynote speakers, caterers and event rental companies. I have listened to and learned from the whole spectrum of event professionals. This is what I have gleaned over the years.

At events there is a variety of other hired assigns. You are the MC along with the DJ or band, photographers, videographers, Photo Booth, outside entertainers, and whatever else gets filled into to enhance an event by the coordinator. PLUS you have the event staff of the location or venue who are also worked into this "timing jambalaya". But a good jambalaya is hot but you don't want to get burned, so you need to be "the spoon that stirs the soup". Better yet, you need to be the "quarterback" of these events. A good quarter back huddles the players to review each persons role. Today on "The Dailies" we go "under the snap" to brief on how we do this easily and effectively.

#1 question I get asked is "what is it exactly that you do"? It's because they have likely only ever seen or attended/suffered through an event of any type that "happened". Nothing special, nothing memorable, nothing they can't wait to be at next time...it just "happened". You know that you could bring that into a new universe of "event". But to be seen is to be acknowledged....BUT....photo and video to really "sell" yourself with is either expensive or hard to come by. You need a "network". Today on "The Dailies" we brief on what these networks are and where you'd find them.

You do a lot and you are proud of it. Great...BUT...the optics are that you do not specialize in anything. For someone to invest in you, they are looking for a specialist; someone who will bring their event to the "next level". Anyone else could easily be found in their committee or circle of friends. Today on "The Dailies", we hit up a filter system to get you invested in by those who have the budget for a "specialist".

HAHA! So the title was meant to sound very "Yoda" for a reason. Too often, people look at sage advise as if it were mystical and that simply should NOT be the case. In this session of "The Dailies", we look at listening and how it will benefit you before AND during an event you are the master of ceremonies for. Some need to develop a real discipline to listen but you will find that "there is a great deal being said in the silence that you keep"...there I go again :-) LOL. Enjoy this briefing.

Ee-gads, this is a tough one. When you first start out, you will do a ton of free jobs. It is necessary to build your confidence, timing and reputation. But if you intend for this to be a business then you must treat it as such. It is only through growth of your business that you will be discovered and then sought after to bring a higher level of relevance or professionalism to a cause. The only way that happens is by building your business and respect in your community. THIS is where it is personally beneficial to agree to donate your services; when they look for you, you have done your job well. Today on "The Dailies" we explore how this works yet how far you allow it to go.

I get asked A LOT if I ever or still get nervous. Short answer is YES. But that needs explaining and that is what I cover today in "The Dailies". I discuss what you need to protect against and what you need to look for in your psychological approach to public speaking or just speaking in front of a crowd for any reason. Hint: nerves are best enjoyed when accepted for what they are. Prophetic huh? haha. Press "Play".

You may be a laugh at home or at work or down at the pub, but there is a quantum difference between that and turning it on for a paying audience or private gathering. I was given a life-lesson from a very funny Master of Ceremonies: "Don't do what I do until it IS you"...but he also said to me "When I make people laugh as an MC its because they had no expectations; if I was to try this for an audience paying me to be funny, that is a TOTALLY different dynamic". In this instalment of "The Dailies", I make sense of all this and hopefully set the record straight.

I wanted to pick up on yesterday's theme of clients you need to either reconsider or back away from altogether. "The Dailies" is my vehicle for opening up full disclosure on the situations I have been in and how I handled them so you can see that these situations are real and they do happen. The WORST is a client who hires you to do your best work; they are counting on you, depending on you. BUT then at the event, they sabotage everything and there isn't a thing you can do about it because it is their event. BUT you are already there and the show must go on. Now what???

Spoiler Alert!! NO I do not say Yes to every request for my services. In this segment of "The Dailies", I make it plain the reasons I have ever turned down an offer or backed away from a client after working with them once or twice. You need to "Know When To Say NO".

The title says it all. Being a public speaker is driven by inspiration and you use that as fuel to be the best you can be, or even the best anyone has ever known. I explain today. MC with Mei - "The Dailies" are available Monday to Friday and are quick hits that I hope "inspire" you to go back and listen to MC with Mei - "The Podcast"; 20 episodes of 20 minutes each that I built to walk you to your first job, and prepare you for the different opportunities that you will likely be offered as a Master of Ceremonies.

My work as the announcer at all Mohawk College Convocation ceremonies is my greatest challenge as a speaker and comes with the greatest rewarding feeling inside....here is its story.... MC with MEi - "The Dailies" are available Monday to Friday! They are a spoon-off of my MC with Mei - The Podcast and The PodCourse; they are short daily hits on current happenings I have engaged in or that have been brought to my attention either on my Twitter feed @MCwithMEi or through my website www.masterofvceremonies.ca. I keep these short and focused and have both an educational and entertainment value so they are easy to absorb or digest.