Speakernomics

Unlock the secrets to landing corporate sponsors for your speaking business with expert Linda Hollander. In this episode of Speakernomics, you'll discover actionable strategies to grow your platform and fund your speaking through sponsorships. How Linda Hollander built a successful speaking business powered by top-tier sponsors like Bank of America, Walmart, and IBM The real definition of sponsorship and how speakers—new or seasoned—can connect companies to buyers Proven tactics to approach and pitch sponsors, even if you're starting from scratch What sponsors want: tangible and intangible returns, plus how to navigate expectations without losing your message Why having a charitable partner can boost your media visibility and open doors to new opportunities Subscribe for more tips and insights to speak, get paid, and repeat! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NFL legend and professional speaker Karl Mecklenburg joins Speakernomics to share how he captivates audiences and drives business success from the stage. Discover practical speaking, storytelling, and marketing tips directly from one of the most versatile voices in the industry. How to keep an audience engaged with dynamic storytelling, humor, and unpredictability Structuring your keynote like a flowing river, mixing serious and light moments to avoid predictability Leveraging referrals and client feedback to strengthen your marketing as a speaker Applying the "all pro" mentality—preparation, decisive performance, honest evaluation, and adaptation—to speaking Building a consistent sales approach and the value of ongoing connection with clients and audiences Tune in for real-world advice to energize your speaking business and leave a lasting impression on every audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really mean to be a professional speaker, and how do ethics shape our industry? This episode of Speakernomics gets real about professionalism, integrity, and the standards that set true pros apart. The core values every NSA speaker should know—and actually live by Where to draw the line between self-promotion and stretching the truth How meeting planners judge speaker professionalism behind the scenes Actionable tips from experienced pros on staying authentic and easy to work with Why integrity, adaptability, and collaboration matter now more than ever in the age of AI With special guests: Dr. Mary Kelly, CSP, CPAE, Mike Brian, Bill Cates, CSP, CPAE, Alan Berg, CSP, Laurie Guest, CSP, CPAE, Simon T. Bailey, CSP, CPAE, and Amanda Gore, CSP, CPAE. Tune in to get practical advice on elevating your speaking business and reputation for the long haul. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rebuilding your speaking business can feel overwhelming, especially when the leads go quiet. In this episode of Speakernomics, Julie Holmes shares practical strategies for jumpstarting your lead generation and making your speaking business thrive. How Julie Holmes rebuilt her speaking business from scratch after setbacks The essential mindset shift for treating your speaking business like a real business Concrete outbound lead generation strategies that go beyond waiting for inbound inquiries Tracking, systems, and the importance of measuring what matters for lead outreach Advice on choosing and actually using CRM and tech tools to support consistent lead generation Watch now to learn how to speak, get paid, and repeat! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking to grow your speaking business in the virtual world? In this episode of Speakernomics, Alaina G. Levine breaks down how webinars can deliver recurring revenue and lasting client relationships—even after the pandemic. The difference between virtual presentations and webinars, and why framing matters How Alaina pivoted to create a recurring revenue stream with webinars Strategies for packaging, pricing, and fee integrity in virtual offerings Developing a "curriculum" of topics versus booking one-off gigs Building stronger client partnerships and funneling webinars into in-person opportunities Don't miss these actionable tips to turn virtual stages into business wins! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unlock next-level social media strategies for speakers with insights from top experts and booking agents. Discover the practical steps that make your social presence work for your speaking business. How to choose the right social platform and boost consistency without spreading yourself too thin Why social proof and testimonials matter more than self-promotion Content strategies: balancing value, authenticity, and connection with your audience The importance of tailoring posts to decision-makers, bookers, and meeting professionals Actionable tips to maximize social media for bookings, brand-building, and business growth Watch now to learn what truly works (and what to avoid) for speakers on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) chats with Hall of Fame speaker Laurie Guest, CSP, CPAE about elevating your speaking business through exceptional customer service and keynote mastery. Get ready for actionable tips and insider stories that will help you stand out with clients and audiences alike. Here's what you'll learn: How Laurie Guest applies customer service excellence lessons from her corporate background to her speaking business Why speed and responsiveness with clients and meeting planners matters for landing and keeping business The value of bold moves, like asking for the encore and turning satisfied clients into long-term followers A behind-the-scenes look at Laurie's upcoming “Keynote DNA Hall of Fame Edition” session and its six essential keynote elements Why building relationships off-stage at events like Influence is just as important as what happens on stage Don't miss these strategies to speak, get paid, and repeat! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover what it takes to market yourself as a successful international speaker in the final part of the Speakernomics global speaking series. Join Kenneth Kinney and a panel of expert speakers as they reveal real-world strategies for adapting your message across borders and cultures. How top speakers tailor their marketing (or not) for different countries and cultures The importance of showcasing international experience through your website, language, and social proof Why cultural nuances, communication styles, and relationship-building matter more than ever abroad Ways to prove your credibility and de-risk your value to foreign event planners Practical tips for customizing your content and personal brand to land gigs worldwide Tune in for actionable advice to help you thrive as a truly global speaker! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether you are an emerging or experienced speaker, let Simon's journey inspire you to align your inner spark with external success and to leverage your expertise for meaningful, memorable impact. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) sits down with renowned CSP and CPAE Hall of Fame keynote speaker Simon T. Bailey to explore what it truly means to amplify your brilliance as a professional speaker. Simon, widely recognized as the world's leading expert on brilliance, shares personal milestones, strategies for sustainable influence, and the pivotal role research has played in redefining his brand and value proposition in the speaking industry. In this session, Simon will: Illustrate how to differentiate yourself by embracing originality and authenticity rather than mimicking industry icons, ensuring your message resonates beyond the applause. Analyze the impact of integrating proprietary research into your business, elevating conversations with decision-makers, commanding higher fees, and building long-term influence within client organizations. Reflect on common career challenges—such as chasing stages and seeking validation from speaker bureaus—and encourage speakers to focus on service, humility, and the true meaning behind every keynote. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney ("Shark") brings together an international panel of expert speakers—including Sylvie di Giusto, Elias Kanaris, Lovelda Vincenzi, David Lim, Joni Petty, Reiner Pettic, Antoni Lacinai, and Jesus Tobias—to explore what it really takes to succeed as a professional speaker on the global stage. This third part of a four-part international series dives deep into how to effectively target specific countries and adapt to diverse cultural audiences. In this session, speakers will: Demonstrate how to research and analyze new international markets, covering everything from cultural norms and economic priorities to competitive landscape and logistical realities. Illustrate how to build and leverage relationships within local networks and how word-of-mouth and initial engagements can accelerate credibility and access in new regions. Explain how to adapt and modify your content, style, and delivery—adjusting for language, humor, idioms, and cultural expectations—to foster meaningful connections and maximize audience engagement across borders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) welcomes accomplished author and speaker Amanda Gore to delve into the art of creating joyful experiences in the speaking industry. In this session, Amanda will: Demonstrate how to cultivate a joyful experience with your audience, emphasizing that fun and spontaneity are crucial tools for engaging and transforming your audience. Discuss balancing edutainment by integrating profound content with humor and interaction, ensuring that even serious topics are delivered in an engaging and memorable manner. Outline techniques for preparing and rehearsing that stress the importance of internalizing content rather than memorizing a set speech, allowing for genuine interaction and adaptability in response to audience dynamics. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode equips speakers with strategies to effectively position themselves across different global markets, ensuring their messages are impactful and well-received. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) connects with an array of guest speakers to explore thriving in the international speaking arena. With global perspectives from speakers hailing from the U.S., New Zealand, the UK, Singapore, South Africa, Germany, Sweden, Mexico, and Australia, this episode dives deep into strategies for succeeding as an international speaker. In this session, participants like Ruby Newell-Legner, Sylvie di Giusto, and others will: Evaluate the significance of localizing messages to align with cultural norms and values, highlighting the need to adapt standard topics like leadership and motivation to resonate with specific audiences. Develop the ability to leverage relationships and in-person connections to open doors internationally, emphasizing the value of trust-based referrals over marketing assets. Demonstrate the importance of building credibility from within a market by providing relatable proof of expertise and relevance to local audiences. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, the official podcast of the National Speakers Association, host Kenneth Kinney, also known as Shark, sits down with Ty Bennett, a CSP, author, entrepreneur, and leadership speaker redefining high performance. Ty Bennett shares his expertise on integrating research into keynote speeches and building audiences effectively. In this session, Ty will: Evaluate the importance of integrating research into keynote speeches to add credibility and engage both buyers and audiences effectively. Illustrate strategies to enhance speaker performance through continuous desire for improvement, drawing inspiration from influential members of the NSA community. Demonstrate methods to make presentations more experiential and engaging, ensuring that audiences see the value and connect deeply with the content by using storytelling and humor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney, affectionately known as "Shark," embarks on a journey with a panel of international speaking experts including Ruby Newell Legner, CSP, Cavett Award; Sylvie di Giusto, CSP; Elias Kanaris; Stan Phelps; and more. Together, they explore the dynamics of becoming a successful international speaker and the nuances that distinguish it from occasional international engagements. In this session, the esteemed speakers will: Explain how to adapt speeches culturally and contextually to match diverse global audiences, ensuring both relevance and resonance. Argue the significance of building strong, service-oriented relationships with international clients, rather than focusing solely on sales intentions. Outline strategies for defining a clear international speaking strategy by targeting specific regions or industries aligned with personal values and expertise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney brings together insights from 16 diverse voices within the speaking industry to explore the essential marketing materials needed for speakers to elevate their business. In this session, you will: Analyze the various perspectives on the most critical marketing tool, including the significance of a compelling demo reel and a comprehensive website. Explore the role of relationships and reputation in driving successful speaking engagements and building a thriving speaking career. Synthesize the collective wisdom from speakers, agents, and meeting planners on creating a holistic marketing strategy that emphasizes transformation over self-promotion. Speakers: Mark Sharenbroich, CSP, CPAE Karen McCullough, CSP Denise Hamilton David Stollman Lois Creamer Frank Kitchen, CSP Deia Starr Rank Mike Ganino Michelle Joyce Dennis Yu Dejah Urbanovitch Thom Singer, CSP Christa Haberstock Chris West Shannon Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney, along with a lineup of thriving professional speakers, dives into strategies for filling gaps in a speaker's calendar and maintaining a thriving speaking business. In this session, speakers will: Demonstrate how leveraging existing relationships with past clients and connections can lead to more speaking engagements and referrals. Encourage speakers to implement consistency and engage in daily proactive outreach to build momentum and opportunities. Illustrate the effectiveness of personalized and direct engagement over mass marketing to nurture and grow professional networks. Join us to discover innovative approaches to fill your speaking pipeline and start thriving in your speaking business. Speakers: Tony Chatman, CSP Sarah Ohanesian Jeff Bledsoe Dr. Genie Snyder, CSP Dr. Nguyen (Tom) Griggs Joyce Marter Steve Shapiro, CSP, CPAE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney, along with a lineup of thriving professional speakers, dives into strategies for filling gaps in a speaker's calendar and maintaining a thriving speaking business. In this session, speakers will: Demonstrate how leveraging existing relationships with past clients and connections can lead to more speaking engagements and referrals. Encourage speakers to implement consistency and engage in daily proactive outreach to build momentum and opportunities. Illustrate the effectiveness of personalized and direct engagement over mass marketing to nurture and grow professional networks. Join us to discover innovative approaches to fill your speaking pipeline and start thriving in your speaking business. Speakers: Tony Chatman, CSP Sarah Ohanesian Jeff Bledsoe Dr. Genie Snyder, CSP Dr. Nguyen (Tom) Griggs Joyce Marter Steve Shapiro, CSP, CPAE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tune in to discover Larry's secrets to transforming dread into confidence by shifting sales mindsets and building lasting connections. In this energizing episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney engages in a lively conversation with Larry Long Jr., President of NSA Carolinas and a dynamic sales influencer. Larry shares his unique perspective on the art of selling yourself as a professional speaker and the significant influence of establishing genuine relationships through content creation on LinkedIn. In this session, Larry will: Define sales as a transfer of energy, encouraging speakers to analyze how their passion and excitement fuel their communication and audience engagement. Explain the importance of developing and leveraging meaningful relationships through LinkedIn to secure speaking engagements. Encourage speakers to evaluate the platforms where their potential clients and buyers are active, ensuring their content is both strategic and influential. Challenge viewers to reflect on their level of dedication—whether they are merely interested, committed, or fully obsessed with their speaking career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) engages in a captivating discussion with author, leadership coach, and award-winning international speaker John F. Edwards, CSP. Together, they delve into the art of delivering powerful and impactful presentations through the lens of neuroscience. In this session, John will: Explain the significance of understanding different types of presentations and their cognitive requirements, encouraging speakers to analyze and categorize their content across the presentation continuum. Illustrate how to identify and integrate actionable tactics into presentations by applying cognitive load theory to avoid overwhelming the audience's working memory. Demonstrate strategies to overcome audience distractions, emphasizing the creation of shared moments for building trust and engagement early in the presentation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth Kinney (Shark) engages with Chad Littlefield, a speaker, bestselling author, and global expert on asking questions that build trust and connection in teams. Chad shares his unique insights on how to create conversations that not only matter but also create tangible change in the future. In this session, Chad will: Demonstrate how to design questions that foster meaningful interactions and deepen connections, particularly emphasizing the importance of identifying and addressing real problems. Analyze the shift from purely speaking at an audience to facilitating engaging conversations that enhance participation and learning. Illustrate how focusing on hyper-specific niches for short periods can strategically expand a speaker's influence and business growth. Clarify the distinction between running a scalable speaking practice and a larger business model, prioritizing impactful connections over sheer volume. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney welcomes Dr. Lisa Jenkins Brown, a renowned speaker and cultural strategist, to discuss the art of connecting with diverse audiences in the speaking business. In this session, Dr. Lisa Jenkins Brown will: Identify the role of professional speakers as researchers by nature and describe how to integrate cultural understanding into your preparatory research to enhance audience connection globally. Propose the implementation of pre-presentation surveys to gather valuable insights, enabling speakers to tailor their messages for better audience engagement. Advocate for maintaining authenticity and purpose in your speaking topics, even as the commercial and political tides shift, asserting that staying true to your core beliefs will lead to sustained success in the speaking industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney engages with Brian Walters, CSP, CPAE, a seasoned speaker, emcee, and infotainment expert. Brian, a past president of the National Speakers Association, shares his expert advice on creating memorable and "sticky" content in the ever-evolving speaking industry. In this session, Brian will: Explain the "sticky framework" as a crucial method for speakers to design presentations that resonate. Attendees will learn to identify and apply the framework's components: gettable, feelable, sayable, and doable in their presentations. Illustrate how to identify the Scooby Doo moment in a speech, ensuring that speakers recognize and craft their 'aha' moments to maximize audience engagement and recall. Discuss techniques for crafting and branding key points, using memory hacks and storytelling to enhance the impact and retention of a speaker's message. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this session, Traci will: Differentiate the importance of focusing on the problem you solve rather than the solutions you offer, emphasizing this shift as a key to marketing success. Illustrate through personal experience how identifying and niching into a specific, expensive problem, such as fraud prevention, can turn you from a "nice-to-have" to a "must-have" speaker. Provide insight into the mental shift needed to narrow down your lead magnet and achieve laser-focused branding, which leads to greater relief and success rather than anxiety. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Prepare to be frippnotized and take your speaking career to the next level with Patricia Fripp's time-tested advice and actionable insights. In this session, Patricia will: Guide speakers to focus on their audience and ensure their stories are relevant and engaging for the listeners, making them feel connected and invested. Demonstrate the significance of having a core message and adaptable content that can be customized for different industries and varied speech lengths. Advocate for the hiring of a speech coach, providing key insights into how even seasoned speakers can continue to improve and refine their presentations. Highlight the importance of specificity in language and offers strategies to enhance the clarity and impact of your words Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Shark and his lineup of seasoned professionals to enhance your understanding of fee management and explore balanced, ethical approaches to maintaining speaker value in a fluctuating market. In this session, you will: Evaluate the concept of fee congruency and how it allows speakers to adapt their fees based on added values or specific circumstances. Create a strategy for maintaining fee integrity while being open to non-monetary value exchanges when clients face budget constraints. Analyze the importance of having a structured fee schedule and the benefits of aligning speaking engagements with personal and family commitments. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for a deep dive into professional speaking tips that will elevate your approach to inclusivity, audience engagement, and message delivery. In this session, Lenora will: Demonstrate how to create a compelling opening that captures the audience's attention within the first 60 seconds. Illustrate the importance of cultural research and adaptation to resonate with diverse audiences across industries and cultures. Model effective strategies for handling Q&A sessions, ensuring they enhance rather than detract from your final message. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney welcomes Christine Cashen, a CSP Hall of Famer, award-winning author, and cancer survivor, as she shares her valuable insights on crafting engaging speaker introductions and memorable titles. In this session, Christine will: Demonstrate how to spark curiosity in an audience with a captivating and personalized introduction to form strong connections. Guide speakers to create unique, standout titles and taglines that differentiate them from the competition. Explain the importance of naming and claiming your core concepts to create memorable, actionable advice for audiences. For more information please visit: Christine Cashen: Dynamic, Hilarious Motivational Speaker Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with consultant and renowned author Lois Creamer, who specializes in helping speakers, consultants, and experts book more business and fully monetize their intellectual property. In this session, Lois will: Highlight the dramatic shift towards virtual presentations and underscore the necessity for speakers to adapt and utilize platforms like Zoom. Explain the critical need to manage and protect intellectual property through strategic licensing agreements. Describe how to integrate AI as a tool to enhance writing and prospecting while maintaining authenticity in your voice and content. Emphasize the importance of leveraging NSA's resources, such as the vault, and engaging with chapter meetings to build community and sustain a speaking career. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this milestone 200th episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney and special guest Dr. Nido Qubein explore the principles of legacy, impact, and the essential elements of connecting authentically with an audience. Offering valuable insights for professional speakers seeking to elevate their craft. In this session, Dr. Qubein will: Explain how adversity can be transformed into abundance by building strength and distinction, drawing from his inspiring background as an immigrant and his subsequent rise to prominence. Highlight the importance of authenticity over charisma in public speaking, emphasizing that genuine experiences and stories from building businesses significantly resonate with audiences. Analyze the critical balance between content and context in delivering effective speeches, stressing the need to tailor messages to suit the audience and the specific circumstances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Phil Van Hooser, CSP, CPAE, Cavett Recipient, and Alyson Van Hooser, exploring the art of building a trusted brand and a family legacy in the speaking industry. With Phil's seasoned expertise and Alyson's leadership acumen, they offer invaluable insights. In this episode, Phil and Alyson will: Discuss the importance of mentorship and character, urging speakers to seek out mentors who are genuine on and off stage. Share effective strategies for generating business leads, emphasizing the power of personalized communication through calls and emails over social media. Explain the transition from a personal to a family speaker brand, highlighting digital identity considerations and the benefits of co-presenting to offer diverse perspectives. Illustrate the impact of storytelling in shifting audience perceptions and establishing credibility, especially for young leaders overcoming stereotypes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gain practical insights and case studies that show how you can maximize your social media presence and connect more effectively with potential clients. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with social media expert, and bestselling author, Corey Perlman, CSP about the essential role of social media strategies in a professional speaker's business. In this session, Corey will: Explain the significance of leveraging existing content, such as keynotes and interviews, to curate authentic and engaging social media posts. Illustrate strategies for growing a follower base on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram, with particular focus on using sponsored posts effectively. Discuss the benefits of consistency in social media presence and maintaining top-of-mind awareness through strategic content sharing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This year, the National Speakers Association hosted its first national speaking competition, where finalists competed at the annual Influence summer conference in August. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with competition mastermind, Mike Brian, regional competition winner Jody Orgill Brown, and national competition winner Jeff Rogers. Together, they delve into the significance of storytelling in the professional speaking arena and discuss the impact of the "Last Story Standing" competition. In this session, you will: Analyze the benefits of participating in storytelling competitions to enhance speaking skills and career visibility. Demonstrate the importance of storytelling structure, such as using a "rhythm document" for creating impactful narratives. Evaluate the process of refining stories through continuous practice and emotional engagement. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Click Here to learn more about NSA's Last Story Standing and find out how YOU can compete in 2025! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks hall of fame speaker and emcee Jeff Civillico, CSP, CPAE. Jeff shares his expert insights on maximizing engagement and effectiveness at conferences, underlining the strategic aspects of relationship-building, philanthropy, and using video in professional speaking. In this session, Jeff will: Demonstrate the process of building and maintaining strong relationships with clients from contract finalization through post-event follow-ups, ensuring ongoing engagement and satisfaction. Illustrate the importance of personalizing client interactions and gifts based on attentive listening and observing individual client preferences to make clients feel valued and understood. Explain how to integrate philanthropy into professional speaking as a means to enhance personal connections, maintain professional fee integrity, and differentiate oneself in the market. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us to learn the rich insights and actionable takeaways that epitomize the "Spirit of Cavett" and how it reshapes the speaking profession each day. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with NSA Members, Hall of Fame Speakers, Cavett Award Recipients, and more, celebrating "The Spirit of Cavett" which NSA celebrates every year on November 14th. In this session, you will: Understand Cavett Robert's legacy and the foundational values he instilled that continue to evolve the NSA community. Explore the principles of collaboration and mutual support as central to thriving in the speaking industry. Identify the importance of giving back and mentoring new members to foster a strong, inclusive community within professional speaking organizations. Examine the impact of adopting an abundance mentality over competition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deepen your understanding of establishing meaningful connections, leveraging feedback for growth, and differentiating yourself in the speaking marketplace. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Jason O. Harris, retired lieutenant colonel from the US Air Force, bestselling author, and keynote speaker. Jason shares his journey into the world of professional speaking, underscoring critical strategies and lessons learned along the way. In this session, Jason will: Emphasize the importance of building trust with an audience through connections and systematic engagement using tools like LinkedIn and personalized videos. Illustrate how to adapt and improve from on-stage failures by receiving candid feedback and refining pre-speech preparations. Highlight the significance of a service-oriented approach, serving clients' needs and creating authentic relationships without seeking immediate returns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for a memorable episode that will arm you with the strategies you need to overcome any on-stage challenges with grace and professionalism. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with an ensemble of seasoned speakers sharing their most memorable "epic fails" and the invaluable lessons they learned while on stage. In this session, our speakers will: Define the significance of respecting time limits and preparing backup plans to handle unforeseen circumstances. Illustrate how humor and humility can be potent tools to manage and recover from unexpected situations during presentations. Analyze the importance of being adaptable and staying positive to turn potential mishaps into valuable learning experiences. In this episode you will hear from: Marcus Sheridan, CSP Justin Jones-Fosu, CSP Jess Pettitt, CSP Dr. Mary Kelly, CSP, CPAE Jeff Civillico, CSP, CPAE Michelle McCullough, CSP Sam Richter, CSP, CPAE Fotini Iconomopoulos Corey Pearlman, CSP Diana Kander Rob Ferre, CSP Dr. Willie Jolley, CSP, CPAE, Cavett Recipient Scott McKain, CSP, CPAE, Cavett Recipient Ruby Newell-Legner, CSP, Cavett Recipient Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cultivate a winning sales strategy and elevate your speaking career! In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Mark Hunter, CSP, author of several books on sales and prospecting, sharing his invaluable expertise on thriving in the speaking business. In this session, Mark will: Explain the significance of maintaining a robust sales pipeline by engaging in five meaningful conversations daily to ensure consistent booking opportunities. Illustrate the advantage of adopting both a hunter and farmer mindset by sharing the importance of direct outreach and sustained engagement to secure speaking gigs. Guide speakers on establishing strong personal connections with decision-makers by discussing methods to understand their unique needs and continuously adding value to their organizations. Highlight strategies like Book a Meeting from a Meeting (BAMFAM) to keep the momentum in the sales process and reduce prospects' chances of going radio silent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Deepen your understanding of the NSA Foundation's mission, and discover tangible ways to contribute to and benefit from this invaluable support network within the speaking profession. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with chair of the NSA Foundation, Patrick Henry, CSP. In this session, Patrick will: Illustrate the pivotal role of the NSA Foundation, detailing how its diverse initiatives, including disaster relief funds, technology grants, and scholarships, are designed to support members in their most critical times of need. Explain the foundation's history and growth, demonstrating how a small act of collective generosity evolved into a robust, multi-million dollar fund serving the speaker community. Encourage speakers to take proactive steps in identifying peers who might be struggling, and learn how to fill out applications on their behalf to ensure those in need receive timely assistance. Highlight the importance of engaging with and giving back to the NSA community, elaborating on how these actions not only foster professional growth but also build lasting, meaningful relationships. Share inspiring stories of resilience and benevolence within the community, showcasing how both small and large acts of kindness have significantly impacted individuals' lives, reinforcing the message that no speaker should feel isolated. Emphasize the practical steps and processes involved in distributing aid, with insights on how to navigate the foundation's offerings in times of personal or widespread crisis. To learn more about the NSA Foundation, go to: https://www.nsafoundation.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn how to stay ahead in the speaking industry by mastering the art of blending technology with genuine human connection. In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney invites Hall of Fame speaker, best-selling author, and AI expert, Sam Richter. Sam sheds light on leveraging AI to amplify your speaking business while maintaining authenticity. In this session, Sam will: Explain how to analyze the vast pool of data to find the right decision-makers and tailor your outreach, making it highly relevant and effective. Illustrate strategies to incorporate AI in building and maintaining client relationships, ensuring consistent communication without losing the human touch. Emphasize the importance of being authentic and genuine, especially in a world increasingly dominated by AI technologies, and how your humanity can be a key differentiator in winning over clients. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with newly inducted Hall of Famer, Jon Petz, CSP, CPAE. Jon's mastery in integrating magic with speaking has not only wowed audiences but has also set new benchmarks in creating memorable moments on stage. In this session, Jon will: Illustrate how to create unique connections and memorable moments on stage, ensuring the audience feels a sense of amazement and emotional engagement. Analyze the balance between delivering high content and maintaining audience engagement, emphasizing the need for actionable tactics coupled with a compelling narrative. Encourage speakers to embrace their unique traits and get coaching early to refine their craft and structure, thereby enhancing their onstage presence and overall speaking performance. Watch this episode on our YouTube Channel! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Diana Kander, an innovation consultant, keynote speaker, former professor, and New York Times bestselling author, to share her insights on leveraging curiosity in the speaking business. In this session, Diana will: Illustrate the significance of constantly iterating and improving the core product, which is the speech itself, at every stage of a speaking career. Encourage speakers to prioritize activities with high ROI and concentrate on the fundamentals of relationship management and referral follow-ups. Model the practice of breaking down and repurposing content into flexible "chunks" to customize speeches for different audiences effectively. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney, speaks with several of NSA's Certified Speaking Professionals. This esteemed group sheds light on the significance and impact of acquiring the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation in the speaking industry. In this session, guests will: Highlight the CSP designation as a marker of legitimacy and an essential differentiator in marketing that assures clients of professionalism and commitment. Discuss the evaluation process, and emphasize investing in high-quality video presentations and maintaining meticulous documentation of speaking engagements. Recommend connecting with mentors and leveraging resources from the National Speakers Association (NSA) to navigate the CSP certification journey efficiently. In this episode, you'll hear from: Frank Kitchen, CSP Rob Ferre, CSP Krista Neher, CSP Genie Snyder, CSP Heather Younger, CSP Michelle McCullough, CSP John Chen, CSP Lisa Ryan, CSP Mike Mooney, CSP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Hall of Fame speaker Dr. Willie Jolley about the art and science of professional speaking. With a career spanning countless successful engagements and media appearances, Dr. Jolley offers invaluable advice for both aspiring and seasoned speakers. In this session, Dr. Jolley will help you: Prioritize aspects of life effectively to create a harmonious balance between work and family. Utilize the importance of consistent and multi-platform content creation and dissemination to engage broader audiences. Develop an understanding of how speaking frequently can hone your skills and increase your confidence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how to stand out as a speaker, make a genuine difference for your audience, and thrive in your professional speaking career in this episode of Speakernomics. Host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney delves into what makes a speaker truly different and memorable, featuring insights from 16 expert guests. In this session, you will: Illustrate the significance of authenticity and uniqueness by incorporating talents or activities such as art, music, or storytelling to entertain and educate the audience. Emphasize the importance of professional conduct by demonstrating how being easy to work with both on and off the stage can enhance a speaker's reputation and lead to repeat business. Encourage speakers to utilize clarity, contrast, energy, and passion in their presentations to create impactful and memorable speeches. In this all-star session, you will hear from:  Scott McKain, CSP, CPAE, Cavett Award Recipient Mark Scharenbroich, CSP, CPAE John Watkis Thom Singer, CSP Jess Pettitt, CSP Frank Kitchen, CSP Sylvie di Giusto, CSP Tim Mathy Michelle Joyce Karen McCullough, CSP Clint Pulver, CSP Denise Hamilton Shannon Jones Nona Prather Mike Ganino Mark Levy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you struggling with the challenges of cold outreach for your speaking business? In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney talks with past president of the NSA Ohio chapter and employee engagement expert, Lisa Ryan, CSP. Lisa, shares her expert insights on why and how to embrace outbound marketing. In this session, Lisa will help you: Understand the importance of cold outreach and overcoming the fear of the phone Identifying key industry associations for building your prospect list Effective techniques for phone outreach and leaving impactful voicemails Crafting personalized and compelling emails to generate leads Utilizing CRM systems for consistent follow-up and maintaining client relationships Additional Links & Resources: Learn more about Motivational Media Click here to learn more about how NSA Membership can help you build a better speaking business and become a better speaker! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with John Watkis, an acclaimed speaker, voiceover artist, actor, and coach this week on Speakernomics. John shares his expert advice on how professional speakers can maximize the effectiveness of their vocal deliveries and maintain vocal health. In this episode, John will: Explain how to self-assess and monitor vocal habits to improve speaking performance. Instruct on the importance of proper vocal preparation and maintenance through hydration, vocal rest, and specific exercises. Demonstrate the significance of utilizing pitch, pace, volume, and tone to create a captivating and dynamic speaking engagement. Motivate speakers to embrace their authentic voice and integrate their personality into their presentations for a genuine connection with the audience. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney is joined by Greg Wasserman, Head of Relationships for Castmagic, to explore innovative ways professional speakers can maximize and repurpose their content using AI-powered software. In this session, Greg will: Explain how Castmagic's AI technology can transform audio and video recordings into various forms of written content, enabling speakers to work smarter, not harder. Demonstrate how to leverage AI tools to repurpose keynotes and coaching calls into valuable content assets like blog posts, social media snippets, and even lead magnets. Discuss strategies for aggregating and summarizing Q&A sessions to enhance future presentations and create additional resources for audiences. Additional Links: Learn more about Castmagic here. Learn more about NSA Membership here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney invites 13 expert speakers to share their insights on what makes a speaker in-demand. In this session, the experts will: Emphasize the importance of delivering relevant, problem-solving content tailored to a specific audience, ensuring your message resonates with the listeners. Illustrate strategies for leveraging name recognition and creating a memorable audience experience to capture and maintain attention. Discuss how to establish a strong reputation in the industry through continual self-marketing and by being an engaging and delightful presence on stage. In this all-star session, you will hear from:  Meridith Elliott Powell, CSP, CPAE Tim Mathy James Bauchum Henna Pryor Richard Schelp Deia Starr Rank Clint Pulver, CSP Lois Creamer Grant Baldwin Shannon Jones Michelle Joyce Dejah Urbanovitch Denise Hamilton Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Matt Bauer, founder of Motivational Media, delving into the transformative power of video in the speaking business. In this session, Matt will: Explain the importance of capturing a speaker's authentic experience through various filming techniques, rather than just documenting the event. Discuss the strategic use of video editing for different platforms, highlighting the need for short, jump-cut content on social media and longer, more detailed videos for professional audiences. Encourage use of color grading and audio optimization in videos to uphold brand standards and enhance viewer engagement. Reflect on the potential and limitations of AI in video content creation, emphasizing the distinction between technical efficiency and maintaining authentic human connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney speaks with Association Expert, and co-founder of Cigar PEG, Ed Rigsbee, CAE, CSP. Ed shares his expert strategies for speakers aiming to connect with associations and leverage those connections to grow their businesses.  In this session, Ed will: Illustrate the significance of positioning oneself as a thought leader within a specific industry using a parachute analogy to determine the core topic. Advise on the importance of building relationships with editors by offering valuable articles, which can lead to introductions to key decision makers. Emphasize the need for speakers to have different fee structures for corporate and nonprofit events and discuss the pros and cons of each.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Speakernomics, host Kenneth "Shark" Kinney sits down with Hall of Fame Speaker & coach, Mike Domitrz, CSP, CPAE, who shares his expertise on thriving and growing a speaking career.  In this session, Mike will: Challenge speakers to differentiate their approach to scripting by finding a balance that allows their authentic personality to shine through, rather than adhering strictly to a fully scripted talk. Guide speakers to evaluate their content and delivery to ensure they are subject matter experts, trusting their knowledge to speak confidently without the crutch of a script. Encourage speakers to apply techniques in selling from the stage tactfully, ensuring that any sales pitch offers genuine value and doesn't detract from the primary content of the presentation. Additional Links & Resources: Learn more about Mike's October Speaker Retreat in Costa Rica! 2024 Influence Aug 3-6th Denver, CO Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices