Stand Up and Speak Up

Do you want to know how to confidently connect with an unseen audience? David Otey will show us how to own the virtual stage. David Otey gets it. He understands the challenges of presenting technical material. In the 1990s, while working as a broadcast engineer, David made a presentation at a conference of his peers. Immediately after lunch (i.e., naptime), people began dozing off as he started to narrate his slides. He knew then something had to change. Thus, he began his study of effective communication. He was soon thrown into the fire, leading the training on a new digital technology for more than 10,000 TV engineers and technicians. During that time, he was able to get buy-in from hundreds of previously reluctant executives, vendors, and engineers across an entire industry. David now shares what he has learned on his journey with scientists and technical experts so they can effectively connect and engage with their audiences. As a TEDx speaker and coach, he has studied under world-champion speakers and is a Certified World Class Speaking CoachTM. Additionally, he has contributed to books in both engineering and communication, including the NAB Engineering Handbook and World Class Speaking in Action. He has authored two books, “The Speaker’s Quick Guide to Telling Better Stories” and “The Speaker’s Quick Guide to Technical Presentations.”

Do you know how to have difficult conversations in order to advocate for yourself in all aspects of your life? Do you want to learn how? Ming Shelby has dedicated her career to inspiring students, teachers, and administrators through positive learning experiences. She believes that courage is the most critical ingredient for personal transformation. She is now building a community of courage beyond the classroom to support kids and adults. You can catch her sharing stories of courage on the podcast Courage Up!

George Bernard Shaw said, “The United States and Great Britain are two countries separated by a common language.” Sandi Small is an accent coach. She trains American actors to British up their accent and their role. Sandi noticed that American actors were confused about the numerous British accents and many coaches are too generic in accent training: they teach all of the accents, but do not specialize in one. She decided to specialize in the standard British accent, otherwise known as ‘received pronunciation’ or RP. Sandi observed that American actors wishing to train in the British accent would need much more than a change in the phonetic sounds. They would be learning a different language in many respects, because British and American English differ in so many areas, such as vocabulary, grammar, word stresses, and voice intonation. She also noted a lack of cultural awareness from the American actors wishing to train in the British voice. Language and culture are interlinked. She decided to train American actors in inter-cultural awareness. Her holistic approach allows for a full immersion into the British accent. Sandi has a background in applied linguistics and has been a film buff for years, as well as a fan of classical theatre and literature. She has been in the teaching and training industry for 20 years, including schools, colleges, universities, and training centers.

If you want anything in life, don’t wait for it to come to you. Go and make things happen. If you can lift others in the process, your chances of success increase even more. Michael Schirtzer is a standup comedian and slam poet born in New York and raised in Los Angeles. Since starting in the backroom of a comedy club in 2014, he and his writing have appeared on NBC Sports, The Jimmy Dore Show, TYT, and KPFK. He has also co-written and appeared in videos with Joe Hanson of Joe Goes receiving upwards of 5 million views. Michael produces and hosts a monthly comedy show in Malibu, CA, that features upcoming talent from the Los Angeles comedy scene and national headliners, including: Ian Edwards, Dean Delray, Tony Baker, Laurie Kilmartin, Debra Digiovanni, Jackie Kashian, and Jimmy Dore.

Whether you are a speaker or not, there is no doubt that we all have expertise that can leave an impact in the world once it is shared. As the Founder of www.GetSpeakingGigsNow.com, Leisa Reid mentors business professionals and entrepreneurs who want to make an impact and ultimately attract their ideal clients through speaking. As a speaker herself, Leisa has successfully booked and delivered over 500 speaking engagements. In her book, Get Speaking Gigs Now, she shares her 7 Step System to Getting Booked, Staying Booked, and Attracting Your Ideal Clients Through Speaking.

Do you truly know what being healthy means? Being healthy goes beyond the "normal" everyday life changes of exercising and eating healthy. It involves our mental health as well as our physical health. Deanna Blair is the founder of Spot the DOTS (Developing. Optimal. Talents. Soulfully - Connecting minds, bodies, and souls for a healthier lifestyle.) Deanna helps people understand that MENTAL ILLNESS can be overcome by creating healthier lifestyles and by changing our environment. By creating healthier lifestyles and eliminating hazardous toxins in our lives, we connect brighter minds and better bodies. We change the world one dot at a time, leading to living our most abundant life. She does this using Science-Based Evidence. The results are a much happier, healthier life with less stress. For over 30 years, Deanna has had first-hand experience. A series of life events, including living with her mom with mental illness, has led her to write her first book to be published in April of 2020. Deanna is also a member of the NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness), where she facilitates a family mental health class and serves as a volunteer for Mental Health of America greater Dallas. Deanna is certified in Mental Health First Aid Youth and Adults, and in NAMI Homefront – A family program designed for military service members and veterans with PTSD, and other mental health conditions. Deanna's passion is helping others who need relief from anxiety, fears, health issues, or living a purposeful life.

Megan Lyons has shared her game-changing approach to wellness with thousands of people through personalized health coaching, corporate and group wellness programs, and motivational and educational speaking. As founder and owner of The Lyons’ Share Wellness, she’s deeply passionate about inspiring others to feel their healthiest and happiest. Megan is the author of “Start Here: 7 Easy, Diet-Free Steps to Achieve Your Ultimate Health and Happiness,” a Top 10 Amazon Bestseller in Nutrition. Her Lyons’ Share Coaching Academy helps aspiring coaches streamline their business and skyrocket their success. Megan holds degrees and certifications from Harvard University, Northwestern University, and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She also has a Masters in Holistic Nutrition and is Board Certified as a Holistic Nutritionist. Megan lectures widely at hospitals, corporations, and organizations. When she’s not health coaching, you can find her working out, teaching fitness classes, cooking, reading, traveling, and cheering on the Dallas Mavericks. She currently lives in Dallas with her husband, Kevin, and adorable dogs, Maverick and Riley.

Listen today to learn why "funny is the honey that makes your stories stick." Ray Engan was a shy little boy who used to avoid talking to strangers by walking inside the safety of his Mom's wrap around skirts. He went on to a career in stand-up comedy, performing with and writing for some of America's best comedians. He left comedy for corporate America, and immediately found failure in the business world... until he added the skill of connecting through comedy to the business world. He became a decorated leader in several large companies and wound up as the sales manager of America's most award-winning small business. Ray has testified before a presidential task force, and appeared on MSNBC, as The Voice of Small Business in America. After reading a London Business School study on the value of humor and storytelling in the workplace, Ray went back and uncovered the processes he had used to create more productivity, increased sales with increased staff retention, and a faster training program. He reverse-engineered his success and uncovered a repeatable business success formula. Today he gives workshops around the country teaching America's business leaders how to create better, happier, more productive workers through humorous storytelling in the workplace, with his program, Leadership Through Laughter. Ray Engan is an award-winning motivational speaker, coach, and storyteller. He is the current President and CEO of Leadership Through Laughter.

Are your fears creating negative energy? Angel Marie will show us how to release that negative energy and shine on. Ever since she was a small child, Angel Marie has been a beacon of light. She always brought people together, making them laugh and smile. Since that time, she has immersed herself in learning about energy, light, and healing. As a Reiki Master, Empowerment Coach, Master Speaker, author of a National Best-Selling Book, and creator of the Elite Reiki Certification System and the Shine On! MovementTM, Angel has been influential in Phoenix and the healing arts community for over 20 years. Her passion is teaching others how to energize their lives, be more joyous, have more confidence, and experience freedom to live your fullest happiest life. With Shine, her awesome Australian Cattle dog by her side, you’ll find Angel's positive energy overflowing from her business into her life as she spends time with friends, dancing, singing, traveling and watching movies.

What does your road to success look like? Is it straight and narrow? A smooth and easy drive where your car can coast on cruise control? Or is it like Erin’s road: long, winding, and full of potholes, construction, and roadblocks? Don’t be afraid of those roadblocks, and don’t worry if you haven’t finished your journey. Ultimately you will still get to the place you are supposed to be. It just might be different than what you had originally imagined—perhaps even better. And you will arrive at your destination a stronger person than you would have been had you never encountered those hardships. Dr. Erin L. Kelley is a professor, speaker, author, and advocate for women’s rights. Erin enjoys writing and speaking to groups about a variety of topics, including finding success through sorrow, overcoming fears and struggles, transforming blame into bravery, and becoming your best self. Her TEDx Talk, “How Law Stigmatizes Rape Victims,” also embodies Erin’s specialty topics such as sexual assault awareness, violence against women, and gender equality. For more, please visit her website: www.drerinkelley.com

Kristin Crockett is passionate about people living their courageous destiny NOW. She is a nationally renowned speaker, coach, and soon to be an author. Her book, “Courageous Destiny – 111 Secrets to Limitless Leadership, Power and Sales,” is due out in 2020. When Kristin works with people, they grow their sales and businesses FAST. Kristin has over twenty years of corporate sales experience, where she resided in the top 1% of all global sales. She was a sales leader. Kristin loves sales and believes when people truly embrace sales courageously, not only can they enjoy their lives so much more, but they can design anything they want, like their courageous destiny. Kristin’s successes with clients include an organization growing 50%+ in revenue in one year; entrepreneurs starting profitable businesses in alignment with their passion and expertise; and many entrepreneurs and sales professionals doubling and tripling their sales within six months or less. If you are looking to immediately grow your sales, your business, or your life, start your courageous destiny now and reach out to Kristin.

Imagine what your life would be like if you lived on the other side of fear! Christie Moore is an Amazon Best Selling Author, Speaker, and Breakthrough Coach. She teaches women how to break free from limiting beliefs and live on the other side of fear. Imagine turning fear to focus, pain to power, and difficulty to determination. It was through her own personal turbulent time of devastation, shame, and feeling like a complete failure, that she discovered her limiting beliefs and gained clarity. Her coaching programs and workshops teach women how to change the trajectory in their lives so they may begin breaking up with limiting beliefs, ditch negative self-talk, stop self-sabotage, and begin living life on their terms by unblocking their pathway to joy. Christie’s magnetic and energetic personality is infectious. She creates light bulb moments of clarity for her clients who are ready to reclaim control, take their power back, and experience the same transformation that changed her life.

Laurel Felt, Ph.D., the founder and CEO of HeartFelt Speaking, returns to share more insights on storytelling. She helps purpose-driven women and allies, like entrepreneurs and activists, to translate their big ideas into powerful stories and easy-to-understand messages that they can confidently deliver on TEDx stages, in coffee shops, and everywhere in between. In addition to coaching one-on-one, Laurel also teaches online courses and facilitates workshops for many notable organizations. Laurel also donates her time to amplify marginalized voices. She coaches non-native English speakers who have experienced refugee resettlement and has advised a grassroots campaign for the Los Angeles Council. Before launching her private practice, Laurel joyfully taught public speaking at the University of Southern California (USC). Her over 250 beloved students grew into skilled and enthusiastic public speakers. She continues to teach several courses in business communication at USC. She also serves as a Senior Fellow with UCLA’s Center for Scholars & Storytellers. ,/p> Laurel earned a Ph.D. in Communication from USC, a master’s degree in Child Development from Tufts University, and a bachelor’s degree in Social Policy from Northwestern University. Perhaps equally dazzling as these academic accolades, she is a former star of community children’s theater (debuting at age 8 in a memorable turn as Zoompa the Oompa Loompa), champion of high school public speaking, a darling of collegiate improv, and maverick Toastmaster.

Lourdes Ortiz created her podcast Unveil the Leader to help you prepare for your strenuous, long-distance journey to success. Lourdes is a Human Resources specialist, corporate trainer, triathlete, and bi-lingual motivational speaker. She helps companies and individuals prepare for the strenuous, long-distance journey of business and personal success. As a young woman, she came to this country with high hopes of pursuing the American dream. But after an unexpected turn of events, she soon found herself a single mom on her own in a new land knowing but a few basic words of English. Calling upon her faith and determination to provide for her son, she learned how to communicate through home study and began to challenge herself through public speaking organizations. She continued her education and obtained a Master’s degree in Business Administration. She has worked for 27 years as the Human Resources and Safety Director for a successful plating company in Whittier, California, where she actively participates in legal hearings, employment negotiations, Workman’s Compensation issues as well as recruitment and training. She is also a Dale Carnegie Instructor and Qualified Speaker with the Toastmasters Founder’s District Speakers Bureau. Her biggest joy is to inspire and help individuals pursue their own vision of the American dream from the lessons she has learned from her surprising journey. For this reason, she created her podcast, Unveil the Leader.

Do you want to learn how to transform your past and find your purpose in just 90 days? What if you could stop the same things from happening over and over again? Decision drives commitment, be committed to yourself; YOU are worth it! Angela Marie is driven every day to help people just like you. Allow her to share with you a defining moment and a resulting "compelling story" that brought her to where she is today. Angela Marie coaches people like you on exactly what to do to reclaim your voice and speak your truth. She shows people how to go from being co-dependent to independent, how to get over your fears and find your confidence, how to find your purpose and re-establish who you are. Angela Marie is a Transformation Coach, Speaker, and Author, who is an excellent mom to her three children in eastern Pennsylvania. She makes herself available to travel across the country, helping people become better versions of themselves.

Do you consider yourself spiritual? Are you afraid of what others may say if you share your spiritual experiences? Well, Robin Cotè is not. She has decided to share her spiritual experience in her new book, “Soul Stirrings.” Robin is a muscle car enthusiast, radio and show business personality, author, tranformational soul coach and speaker. She is a Studio Director for Dave Pratt’s Star Worldwide Networks and currently produces over 25 shows, along with hosting her own show, Get Real With Robin. Robin Cotè is also the author of “Victim No More!” It is her journey through the morass of abuse and loss, ultimately revealing her self-worth, preservation, and accountability. Her message, “It’s up to you to have a better life,” rings true not only in the pages of her book but also in her daily life. “VICTIM” will never be a word used to describe Robin. Robin’s smile is contagious. Her ability to inject hard truth into any situation is her calling card! For more information on Robin Cotè, go to her website, www.robincote.com

Although life can be chaotic and scary at times, we all need to fly through it as best we can. There is no one better equipped to help people do that than Cassandra Pavolic. Despite her fear of heights, Cassandra spent 25 years as an aerialist with Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus and Las Vegas shows. As a life coach, Cassy is helping other people confront their fears, whatever they may be. “Yes, it’s scary,” she says. “But there’s something about the thrill of doing something you’re afraid of and coming through it okay. It’s a lot like my experience as an aerialist.” Now, Cassy’s biggest thrill is helping other people move forward despite their fears to make their goals reality.

Laurel Felt, Ph.D., is the founder and CEO of HeartFelt Speaking. She helps purpose-driven women and allies, like entrepreneurs and activists, to translate their big ideas into powerful stories and easy-to-understand messages that they can confidently deliver on TEDx stages, in coffee shops, and everywhere in between. In addition to coaching one-on-one, Laurel also teaches online courses and facilitates workshops for many notable organizations. Laurel also donates her time to amplify marginalized voices. She coaches non-native English speakers who have experienced refugee resettlement and has advised a grassroots campaign for the Los Angeles Council. Before launching her private practice, Laurel joyfully taught public speaking at the University of Southern California (USC). Her over 250 beloved students grew into skilled and enthusiastic public speakers. She continues to teach several courses in business communication at USC. She also serves as a Senior Fellow with UCLA’s Center for Scholars & Storytellers. Laurel earned a Ph.D. in Communication from USC, a master’s degree in Child Development from Tufts University, and a bachelor’s degree in Social Policy from Northwestern University. Perhaps equally dazzling as these academic accolades, she is a former star of community children’s theater (debuting at age 8 in a memorable turn as Zoompa the Oompa Loompa), champion of high school public speaking, a darling of collegiate improv, and maverick Toastmaster.

Find out how to look for small things in life and learn to express appreciation, love, and gratitude for them along the way. ‘Nurse’ Jesse does more than care for a person’s physical needs. She promotes, trains, fosters, and develops new dimensions of life in others. She sees a ‘healthy life’ as a wholesome, holistic life. Wellness is not only about the body, but the whole person. Wellness includes positive thinking and a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Her mission is to help people realize their inherent worth and awaken their truest-self so they can joyfully achieve. Jesse has spent her career coaching and mentoring. She draws from her education in Human Biology, Exercise Science, and Nursing, as well as her 20 years of experience in health and fitness, disease management, population health, the study of culture and human behavior. She has a passion for prevention as well as systems innovation and improvement. Nurse Jesse is the Lead Facilitator at It Makes Me Happy!™. She delivers corporate keynotes and workshops, facilitates trademarked curriculums in small group programs for personal healing and empowerment, and is the producer of The Joy Journey - a virtual happiness program.

Failure can equal success. No matter how many times you fail, use the lessons from your failures, double down in your efforts, and you eventually will end up ahead of where you started. Anthony Michael Russo is a Dallas based speaker and emcee who has hosted events all over the country, large and small. He's the official on-field host for several of the NCAA championships, including College World Series in Omaha and the men's Final Four. Anthony assists in several charity events as a host and emcee. He is also a motivational and keynote speaker who helps audiences get past failure and turn it into a positive. He preaches that failure is part of the process, and that pushing to failure is where growth and greatness occurs. He started a social movement in 2016 called #BETHECHANGE where he spreads the message of positivity and taking action to make the world a better place.

Did you know that Tango is a perfect tool for team building and leadership development? Listen and learn about the "hidden gifts" of Tango and how it can be applied to life, work, and even spiritual practice (it is a creative form of moving meditation). Ilona Glinarsky, the founder of TangoToSuccess.com, is a 25-year veteran of social partner dance (Salsa and Argentine Tango), a 2019 finalist of the Southern California Tango Championship, and an award-winning educator and life coach. She has worked for 20 years on developing a unique program called Living Tango (R) that's focused on cultivating deeper connection, improving communication and creative collaboration between individual clients, organizations, and teams utilizing concepts and learning from the dance floor. She has been a guest instructor at the Los Angeles Music Center for 14 years, Agape International Spiritual Center, the Aerospace Corporation, and is presently offering her Living Tango learning method at Mattel. Ilona offers ongoing tango classes and produces popular tango dance events regularly in Hermosa Beach, El Segundo, and Playa Del Rey.

If you don’t like the results you are getting in life, make different choices. Sarah Ordo did, and she is living her best life. Sarah Ordo is your not so typical millennial girl, just craving to make moves and leave her mark on the world! She is a bit of a do-it-all kind of girl and seriously does ALL the things. She is an entrepreneur and the owner of 24Luxe Hair & Makeup here in Detroit, an on-location hair and makeup team for weddings and events. She is also a licensed makeup artist, self-published author, podcast host, YouTuber, life coach, workshop creator, and most recently has begun organizing live local events!

Do you love your pet? Or do you connect with your pet? Understanding that difference can significantly improve your life. Jamie Lee is an Animal Relationship Expert, Animal Reiki (RAY KEY) Teacher and founder of Animal Bonds. She is a speaker and author of “Whispers of Wisdom – your pet has all the answers. She’s also been featured in the best-selling book series, Chicken Soup for the Soul and her articles have been published in Cesar’s Way and Pet Scene magazines. Jamie is active in animal rescue and donates a percentage of all profits to animal causes. Her life mission is to empower people to create happy, peaceful, and spiritual relationships with animals.

Sometimes, when you need to make significant changes, you need to get away from your daily routine. Businesses do it regularly by holding off-site meetings. Time spent away allows you to focus on what matters most and make the necessary changes to achieve your goals. Frankly Coaching is about improving work-life balance by reducing the impact of stress and increasing vitality to help clients achieve their goals. Puja’s techniques are a comfortable balance between the scientific and the spiritual, with a conscious connection to mind, body, and soul. Having had depression to the point of suicide, Puja’s techniques ensure mental health is managed so that burnout may be prevented. Puja offers open and honest coaching and mentoring in partnership with clients, identifying the situation, going deep into reasons for being stuck, and finding solutions to help them manage the daily challenges and stresses of life, clarify and reach their life goals. Puja’s coaching and mentoring style is kind, real, authentic, and challenging, helping clients find confidence and gain more control of their lives.

When Erin Marcus had to handle a really mad, very large, Canada Goose, she was beyond nervous. She was AFRAID. Find out the lessons she learned facing that fear. Erin Marcus is an award-winning, nationally renowned speaker, author, and consultant, who has been creating business successes for nearly 20 years. She has spoken for top organizations such as Coldwell Banker, Highland Capital, Baird & Warner, Thrivent Financial, and US Bank, to name a few. Regardless of the setting, there is a consistent theme. Create powerful connections, come from an authentic place of service, and help people reach new heights they may not have even thought possible. Her vast corporate experience, combined with her MBA business savvy and street-smart upbringing, has led her to help organizations to expand exponentially. She helped one company go from 4 million to 15 million, in record time. Erin is the author of her second, forthcoming book: Conquer Your Business: Secrets Guaranteed to Help You Grow Your Service Based Business Faster.

Do you find yourself having material or professional success and still being unhappy? Find out how to find your true calling and the happiness that comes with it. Chelley Canales is an entrepreneur based in Denver, Colorado. She is the Founder and Spiritual Spark Plug of lighthouse/haven, a hub created to inspire, connect, and provide resources for awakening souls. She is a teacher, speaker, podcast/on-camera host, blogger, and author with a firecracker spirit in a form that can hardly contain it. After finally acknowledging the unrelenting whispers of her soul, Chelley accepted that she couldn’t keep walking a path that didn’t fit her soul’s calling. She knew that if she didn’t make a leap on her own terms, she’d be pushed off the cliff by circumstances beyond her control. In 2018, she finally said yes to herself in 2018. She left a traditional career path behind. She decided that the discomfort of jumping into her calling with no net was preferable to the familiar, unending ache of living a disconnected life. Since taking the leap, she realized her calling was much greater than simply following the trail to her purpose alone. Knowing that people were waking up in greater numbers than ever before in history, Chelley wanted to guide those who were just beginning to wake up. She chose to be the bridge between the world of spirituality and the seekers who may not know yet what they are looking for. Her mission includes creating content and providing support for the awakening community. She has written The ABCs of Awakening: A Dictionary for the Emerging Soul and contributed to When I Rise, I Thrive. Her interview series, Lighthouse Conversations with Chelley Canales, highlights awakening stories from different perspectives and can be experienced in both video and podcast form. Let lighthouse/haven provide a spiritual home for your fires of purpose to be ignited because there is no better time than now to live your best light.

Every day we have the opportunity to create our own reality. Why not create one you LOVE?! With the help of future pacing, you can do just that. Meghan is a health coach and trainer, whose goal is to empower all women to feel Fit & Fierce. Her wheelhouse is the intersection of muscles and mindset. For years she believed that being the smallest version of herself would make her happy. It turns out this couldn’t have been farther from the truth. She was finally able to overcome her patterns of disordered eating and addiction to exercise when she learned to love and embrace her body, as is. She is the founder of the Fit & Fierce coaching program and the host of the Fit & Fierce Podcast. Her mission is to show women how to finally make peace with food and their bodies. How to truly trust and love themselves. She wants every woman to feel strong inside and out.

Many of us share our thoughts on social media. Often, we do it through the ideas of others that we share. We can connect with people we otherwise would not have via these shared thoughts. Today, my friend and producer, Robin, and I will discuss our favorite shared thoughts and why they resonate with us. Robin Cotè is the author of "Victim No More!" It is her journey through the morass of abuse and loss, ultimately revealing her self-worth, preservation, and accountability. Her message, "It's up to you to have a better life," rings true not only in the pages of her book but also in her daily life. "VICTIM" will never be a word used to describe Robin. Robin is a muscle car enthusiast, radio and show business personality, author, and motivational speaker. She is a Studio Director for Dave Pratt's Star Worldwide Networks, producing over 25 shows on the network. Robin's smile is contagious. Her ability to inject hard truth into any situation is her calling card! For more information on Robin Cotè go to her website, www.robincote.com.

Jewelle Colwell Boldt is an award-winning actress, film and television producer. Jewelle is also a published author of both fiction and nonfiction. She has always been aware of her purpose to bring light and heightened awareness to the world through the power of story. Jewelle’s world changed dramatically in the summer of 2015, the trauma causing her to require emergency surgery later that year, after which she nearly died in post-op. At this point, Jewelle’s focus evolved to include her own story of recovery to inspire others in their journeys to wholeness. To further enable this process, she received her life coach certification and continues her studies to provide support to the journeys of others. She has written numerous articles on PTSD and Wholeness for magazines and books, alongside her recovery support blog at www.theArtofOnward.com Jewelle provides daily life and mindset coaching in her facebook group, The Art of Onward, to further inspire and motivate members to live the life they would love.

Do you want to learn how to live a strong and courageous life? Then listen today to Brandy Edwards. Brandy Edwards is a Texas-based attorney turned Empowerment Speaker and Coach with an emphasis on self-love. She created The Self-Love Challenge to motivate, empower, and challenge women, as well as young girls, to love themselves while they work on themselves, in all aspects of their lives and without conditions. Brandy is a health and fitness enthusiast that embraces self-love as a lifestyle, is obsessed with the color pink and considers herself to be a structured free-spirit that lives in the moment. Her self-discovery journey led her to follow her happiness, to be strong and courageous, and to take action despite fear to create a life that she loves.

Amira Alvarez is the Founder and CEO of The Unstoppable Woman, a global coaching company helping thousands of driven women in the workplace, entrepreneurs, and self-employed professionals achieve their financial breakthrough. As someone who has made a quantum leap (going from barely making 6-figures to making $700k in one year) and has lived to tell about it, she knows exactly what mindset shifts are required to get out of your own way, master the art of success, and gain the confidence and freedom to keep growing. The strategies she used to achieve this growth are the same strategies she uses with her clients, helping them double, triple, and even five times their income in less than a year, cross the 7-figure mark, and become truly unstoppable in their lives and businesses. Amira has served individuals in a wide range of industries including real estate, business consulting, the arts, coaching, law, medicine as well as leaders in corporate positions. When she's not helping others, she's continuing to say "yes" to her own growth and stays 100% committed to being unstoppable in her own life and business.

Are you are being called to play a bigger game in the world, but are holding yourself back by way of self-doubt, self-sabotage, and impostor syndrome? Have you have been playing small and keeping parts of you invisible? Learn how to get out of your way and claim your power. Let the world see you shine and live the life you love. Elizabeth de Moraes was shy and using extra weight to hide in plain sight. She had debilitating insecurities. Now, Elizabeth is a solidly and audaciously confident business boss babe. She is a Transformational Coach, wife, mother, speaker, author, dancer, model, on-camera expert, host, fashion junkie/closeted stylist, red carpet spokesperson, and more. Learn how she changed her mindset and took action to transform her life. She now incorporates these techniques daily to continue a legacy for her family and those she touches. Elizabeth is an internationally certified Transformation Coach. She calls herself a Confidence and Success Catalyst. Her clients have accomplished much in the realms of life, business, corporate America, and the entertainment industry. But they still sense that they have so much more inside of themselves that is waiting to be created and released to the world. From the outside, they appear to have it all together. But there is an element of "hiding in plain sight." They are not entirely going for their dreams and goals. They are not making the significant impact they were born to make. There is a GAP between the image portrayed publicly and the inner identity. The bigger the gap, the lower the confidence. Elizabeth helps her clients change. She brings a unique, innovative, and holistic approach to transforming the whole person. They learn to close the gap and live out their full purpose and passion, guided by an inner knowing with an outer "it-factor," rather than being dictated from outside forces.

Camille Leon believes in a healthier and happier world through our choices. Finding solutions to today's challenges and making it easier to choose the best ones is her passion and her business. Starting from scratch, Camille Leon created an international organization and movement. Camille is the Founder of the Holistic Chamber of Commerce. It has chapters throughout North America and members all over the globe. She is the author of "False Starts: the misadventures of transformation.' Camille is available as a Speaker, Coach, and Consultant.

Payal Nanjiani believes that your success is within you and that you can achieve success with speed and serenity in any economy. Payal Nanjiani is one of the world’s few Indian-American globally acclaimed motivational leadership speaker, executive & success coach, and an author. She is the founder and CEO of Success Is Within- a leadership and success training & coaching company. She cuts through the complexity of leadership in today’s fast-changing environment to uncover the core problems and devise real-world solutions. She promotes women in leadership around the world. Payal specializes in Leadership Breakthrough, Self-Reflection, and Self-Leadership Discovery experiences. These experiences are so highly inspirational and real-time that they ensure optimum impact and lasting tangible results. Her workshops and coachings have proven to inspire leaders and teams to take actions that significantly improve their thinking, behavior, and results. She has helped millions achieve their highest level of success. She works closely with several organizations to develop world-class leaders. Payal has been featured on television, global magazines, podcast and more. She is a regular guest speaker on America’s radio show. Payal lives with her motto, ‘Success Is Within.’ Payal’s speaking & coaching have largely & positively impacted: Small Medium Businesses, Fortune 500 Companies, Celebrity CEO’s, Government officials, and Universities.

Michelle Hirst is a multi-passionate entrepreneur. She has combined her love of creativity with her fascination of the sub-conscious mind. Michelle grew up a shy, introverted child that often felt overlooked and invisible. She found the theatre at a young age. Through acting, she was able to find moments of confidence and freedom. Her desire for a more permanent transformation led her to learn various modalities. These modalities include Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Subconscious Release Technique (SRT), Neurokenesis, and Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT). Through the use of mindset modalities, her unique brand of coaching, and guided by a deep sense of intuition, her clients have come to refer to Michelle as The Mindset Queen. She loves helping creative entrepreneurs get out of self-doubt, release the inner resistance that’s keeping them stuck, and get back into clarity and confidence. Then they can finish their creative projects and get them out into the world where they belong. One of her greatest joys is seeing her clients transform themselves during this creative process. They then step into their purpose and live their lives with a new sense of passion. Her mission is to elevate the planet through the cultivation of creativity and the transformation of the mind. Michelle lives in Frisco, Texas, with her amazing son Owen.

Vladimir Sizov believes you control your fear; you don't let your fear control you. Vladimir is an IFBB Professional Bodybuilder. He has a long and varied performing arts background spanning multiple disciplines. Vladimir is originally from Moscow but now lives in Los Angeles. His athletic pursuits began at age 7 with rigorous training in gymnastics. He was accepted into the Red Army Gymnastics Team at age 14. The following year, during his competition debut at the USSR national gymnastics championship, he won First Place in the team competition. At age 20, Vladimir applied his gymnastics training to circus arts. He joined the Moscow Flying Circus with a trapeze act that quickly became a star attraction. This renown led to Vladimir's emigration to the United States, where at age 25 he began performing with the world-famous Cirque du Soleil in Las Vegas. Vladimir has a long history as a performance artist challenging the limits of the human physique. It was only natural that he would eventually find his new athletic calling in the field of competitive bodybuilding. Having received broad exposure as a guest performer during the 2000 Mr. Olympia contest, Vladimir went on to win his IFBB Pro card in 2010. In addition to his athletic pursuits, Vladimir has also recently begun a career in screen acting. He has appeared in several Hollywood movies, including Tom Cruise's "Jack Reacher, "Water for Elephants," and "Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D."

Chalese Stevens faced a horrific tragedy in June of 2004 when she lost her four-year-old son in a water park drowning accident. Her healing journey has consisted of helping others along the way by not only to those who are grieving losses of their own but also fighting for lives not yet taken. She has now formed a nonprofit organization, Rainy Days Foundation, (www.rainydaysfoundation.com). Chalese has a big heart. Because her son donated his heart valves when he passed, she has connected with families who are battling heart disease with their children, bringing them hope through their darkest storms. Along with running her nonprofit, Chalese is a motivational speaker and leadership developer. She is the author of an adventure blog (chalesetalks.com) and children’s books, (The Adventures of Bug). Chalese is also blessed with two more beautiful children. She is constantly creating memories with and making sure she documents each moment. She is a light to so many with her big heart, infectious laugh, and passion for living her life today, for she knows that tomorrow is never a guarantee.

Do you celebrate life? Do you inhabit moments fully? Today, Glenn Morshower will share with us how to use exceptional thinking to live an exceptional life. Glenn Morshower is an actor, producer, and speaker. Glenn has appeared in over 200 films and television shows, in a career spanning five decades. His first appearance was in the 1975 feature film Drive-In. Audiences know Glenn best for his seven-year run as Agent Aaron Pierce, on the FOX hit series 24, and as General Morshower, in the Transformers films. In a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Glenn was recognized as one of the top character actors in the film and television industry. Glenn is currently a series regular on the FOX hit series, The Resident. Recent movies include Bomb City, Every Other Holiday, and The Doo Dah Man, which Glenn won the Best Actor award for at the Monaco Film Festival. Glenn was nominated for a SAG award in 2007, for his portrayal as Aaron Pierce, on Fox’s 24. Glenn is also very successful in the hugely popular video game industry, with prominent voiceover work in Call of Duty games and 24: The Game. He also has a starring virtual role in Battlefield 3, as Agent Gordon. Glenn was chosen by director Michael Bay, to be the virtual host of the Transformers Ride, at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Orlando, and Universal Studios Singapore. He had the honor of declaring the ride open to the public at the Opening Day Ceremonies at Universal Studios Hollywood, in 2012, and at Universal Studios Orlando, in 2013. When Glenn is not busy filming, he teaches The Extra Mile Acting Workshop at his studios in Los Angeles, Dallas, and Salt Lake City. He is also a motivational speaker and has spoken to audiences all over the world.

Are you fascinated with forensics? The basic principle of forensic science is that "Every contact leaves a trace." Mike Wakshull is a forensic document examiner. He speaks to attorney and forensic organizations between 15 and 20 times each year. His speaking engagements several times each year are as an expert witness in court. As a forensic document examiner, Mike works with attorneys and other clients to authenticate documents. Authentication includes handwriting, signatures, and altered documents. Mike is a dean of the Speaker's Academy for the National Speakers Association Greater Los Angeles Chapter. In Toastmasters he earned an Advanced Speaker Silver level. In past vocations, he started a computer graphics software company, managed information systems governance and corporate quality risk management for a major biotechnology company. He managed development and implementation of quality risk management procedures and standards for a major medical device company.

Jeermal “Mr. Me Too” Sylvester is the epitome of a winner. He overcame fatherlessness, poverty, and the pain of a broken home to become one of the more accomplished basketball players in the state of Indiana. After a four-year professional basketball career, Jeermal continues to make a significant impact on young athletes and disadvantaged youth by sharing his testimony of overcoming obstacles and his motivational message to ‘rise through the fire.’ Jeermal was sent from Chicago, Illinois by his Mom to live with relatives in South Bend, Indiana as a small child. He learned to channel his bottled-up feelings of abandonment and resentment into basketball. He quickly became one of the top high school basketball players in Indiana. He broke records, earned a spot on the 1990 Indiana All-Star team, and accepted a full athletic scholarship to Ball State – a Division I university. Jeermal continued to excel at the collegiate level. He was expected to play in the NBA. However, during his senior season, he was involved in a physical altercation with a teammate and suspended from the team indefinitely. This ruined his chance at achieving his NBA dream. Jeermal is always persistent. He didn’t give up on his professional sports goals. He played professional basketball in Europe. After four years, he experienced a career-ending knee injury. He was devastated. Faced with the fear of losing the one outlet he had for his pain. Jeermal used his Criminology and Psychology of Human Development studies from college to help other students, athletes, and adults through the same obstacles that he had faced. He began to use his wisdom to help others rise through the fire! Jeermal works with leading organizations, such as the Indiana Department of Corrections, St Joe County Community Corrections, Heroes Camp Inc, and EmployIndy. He speaks at various summits, conferences, schools, and events. When youth, college students, athletes, and adults talk about the worst of their life experiences, Jeermal found himself saying, “Me too!” The expression quickly became his nickname. Mr. “Me Too” is a motivational speaker, Certified Youth Specialist, and the CEO of Beauty for Ashes Inc. Jeermal has found success beyond sports. He teaches the same proven principles and steps that allowed the three-time college dropout to push through the noise and complete his degree after 24 years.

Do you often put decisions about your life and your health in the hands of others? Today, Jan Tucker will show us the importance of taking ownership of your health. Jan has helped hundreds of clients resolve a wide variety of health issues: pain; physical illnesses like serious gallstones, chemo-related symptoms, flu; and emotional issues such as depression, severe anxiety, and more. She began her studies to strengthen her immune system and prevent recurring bouts of bronchitis, asthma, allergies, eczema, and digestive issues. She recognized the power and holistic health benefits of Qigong. She now offers these benefits to others. Jan is a level 5 certified qigong healer and trainer, level 2 Reiki practitioner, and author. She trained with Chinese-born International Qigong Grand Master Chunyi Lin. Qigong sometimes appears to offer magical solutions for healing, maintaining health, and taking you to the next level of health (even peak performance). Qigong provides more energy, better sleep, stronger immunity, and many more holistic benefits. In truth, it’s the body’s natural ability to heal itself that produces the magic. Qigong is for self-healing. Jan is currently working on a book to introduce Qigong and its benefits to help more people take control of their own health.

Join me in celebrating show # 300, with my friend and mentor Craig Duswalt. I joined Craig’s Mastermind in March of 2012. I wanted to figure out what Walt 2.0 would become. I had no idea it would look like this. It was during the first couple of mastermind meetings that Stand Up & Speak Up was born. I followed Craig’s mantra of “Say Yes, then figure it out later.” With input from Craig and members of his mastermind, I evolved. And I am still evolving. This week, we will look at my journey through Craig’s eyes as well as mine. Craig Duswalt is a Speaker, Author, Podcaster, and the creator of RockStar Marketing. Craig’s background includes touring with Guns N’ Roses, as Axl Rose’s personal assistant, and Air Supply, as the band’s personal assistant. Craig was also an award-winning copywriter. Craig combined his backgrounds in both music and marketing and is now a professional speaker and author. Craig teaches entrepreneurs how to use outside the box marketing techniques to attract clients, and how to stand out from the competition — Like a RockStar. Listen and learn what magic can happen when you follow this “Walt’s Rule” - When Opportunity Knocks, Answer the Door.

Before there was Stand Up & Speak Up, there was a terrified speaker who had to overcome stage fright to make what I do now possible. In 2007, I met Darren LaCroix. In February of 2008, I traveled to Las Vegas for a week to attend some of Darren’s events. There, I also met Craig Valentine and Patricia Fripp. Today is show #299, and I am pausing to look back at how far I have come. That week, where I spent time with Darren, Craig, and Patricia caused an epiphany on the flight back. I will share that on the show. I have been honored to interview all three of them and will play cuts from those interviews. Learn some of the secrets of how I overcame my fears. If you don’t already believe this, I may change your mind - “If Walt can do it, I can, too.”

Joyce Rice says, “Success for Self, Associations, and Corporations is dependent on Elevating and Utilizing Human Potential.” At age 17 Joyce was judged the best baton twirler in the world, defeating some 20,000 other young women. She graduated with honors from Iowa State University. Joyce has lectured on The Art of Innovation for such giant corporations as General Dynamics, Rockwell International, and I.T.T. Joyce also excelled in the field of entertainment with over 40 years of experience on stage. She demonstrates how an Iowa farm girl with a dream became a successful innovator in show business and one of today’s most unusual and outstanding speakers! By sharing her experiences and proven strategies, Joyce inspires and empowers listeners to maximize their talents, rise to the top and live their ever-expanding potential.

If you don’t speak up for yourself, who will? Cynthia Lou helps people develop the skills and confidence to speak up for themselves. Cynthia Lou went from “hoping to get picked” to learning how, and WHEN, to speak up for herself to carve her way into many hard-to-break-into professions: the skincare and beauty business with her own line of Cynthia Lou Skincare, the music business as a DJ, musician, and emcee, the professional sports business as a journalist covering the Tour de France, and now the world of film and television an actor. She teaches others to do the same. She understands the habits, mindset, focus, precision, and JOY required to make it to the top levels of any profession.

What is the most powerful tool any company can have to connect with their audience? Mellissa Tong believes it is a compelling and engaging story. Why? Because people don’t buy based on facts and logic. They buy on emotions and then use facts to justify their decision. Mellissa Tong is an award-winning director/producer and on camera rock star video coach. She started her career in radio. Later, Mellissa brought her broadcasting skills to the International Channel, one of the first satellite TV stations in the US. She became their TV News Anchor, Reporter & Producer. Besides anchoring the news, she was responsible for a 5-min human interest segment every day. She covered a wide range of topics including science, technology, health, beauty, politics, as well as entertainment news and movie premieres. As a reporter, she interviewed thousands of people from all walks of life, including Hollywood celebrities. She covered over 1200 stories. “At the time, I didn’t realize I was a storyteller, I thought I was just having fun,” says Mellissa. After the International Channel, Ms. Tong went on to work for CBS’ episodic TV show Martial Law before founding DuckPunk in 2000. At DuckPunk, she continues to tell stories, whether it is for a TV commercial, digital campaign, branded content, a film, or a documentary. DuckPunk works with small businesses as well as Fortune 500 clients, including Nissan, Verizon, Wells Fargo, and the California Department of Health. The awards Mellissa won include the Clio, multiple Addys and Tellys, and many more film festival awards from across the country. Besides producing and directing, Mellissa is a public speaker and an on-camera coach. She has held classes for SoCalGas, various Chambers of Commerce and trade organizations. Her most sought-after seminars, “How to be a Rock Star On-Camera” and “Finding, Speaking and Marketing Your Big Why™,” have garnered rave reviews from participants. Mellissa firmly believes in this mantra, a quote by Pablo Picasso: “The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”

This week I will be hosting my 295th show. For most of this radio journey, Ed Vanderlee has been in my corner. I am very happy to be a colleague of his at the station — I am even happier to call Ed my friend. Ed Vanderlee is an On-Air Radio Personality and a Producer. He is also the operations manager at Star Worldwide Networks. He oversees the daily operations of one of the fastest growing media companies in the country. Ed also owns and operates The Arizona Roughriders, Arizona’s only full-time professional stunt team. They provide cowboy stunt shows at a local theme park. You can find Ed at www.1980somethingshow.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

Being vulnerable can instill fear in any of us. There is tremendous power in embracing your vulnerability. The more vulnerable you are, the more thrilling the rewards. Originally from Oklahoma, Jeremy Parr is now living and working as an actor and percussionist in Los Angeles. He holds music degrees from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma City University. After graduate school, Jeremy worked as a high school band director in Moore, Oklahoma for seven years. He was responsible for coordinating the percussion programs for three schools, conducting a high school symphonic band in the spring, assisting with jazz studies, and team teaching a 170 member marching band in the fall. Somewhere in those seven years, Jeremy started taking improv comedy classes. Eventually, he had a successful career as a film actor in the Oklahoma and Texas markets. After he resigned from public school teaching in 2016, Jeremy focused on his acting career while being a working percussionist. Jeremy was fortunate to perform with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Orchestra, Fort Smith Symphony, Oklahoma Composer's Orchestra, and many other groups. He is also a founding member of the Great Plains Percussion Group; a professional percussion collective that has performed throughout Oklahoma, Kansas, and Arkansas. Like other millennials, Jeremy is also a co-creator/co-host of a podcast. Thunder Moneyball Podcast is an NBA centric podcast focusing on Jeremy's beloved Oklahoma City Thunder. As an actor, Jeremy has roles in four feature films that are slated for release in 2019. Jeremy loves his wife Julie, and their two dogs Carly and Simon very much.

Imagine going from ‘Thinking to Doing?’ How will that affect your business, your relationships, your Life? Maurice DiMino does just that. He trains individuals and groups to use the “W.I.N. at Life” system to create a life filled with joy, prosperity, and enduring relationships. He has developed an easy-to-use system so that you can create the life that you want. Go from zero to hero with Confidence, Character, and Charisma. Before taking the stage as a speaker, Maurice was selling Post Production equipment. He developed a W.I.N. Philosophy that helped him do more than a million dollars worth of business...per month. He has given over 2,000 paid presentations, nine years as one of the top contract speakers, and has helped hundreds to W.I.N. at Leadership, Communications, and Team Building. In 2004, he won the District 52 International Speech Contest. The TED Organization recognized him as an outstanding speaker, and in April 2013 he became a TEDx speaker at San Diego State University. In August 2018, Maurice achieved his most significant accomplishment. Toastmasters International awarded Maurice the Accredited Speaker Designation. Only 81 Professional Speakers have achieved this designation. He has taken his years of experience of being a public and corporate speaker and made it into a fun, interactive corporate Keynote “Win at Life.” At these events – you will discover and create a Passionate and Powerful life for you, your family and friends. His clients include Microsoft, US Navy, Chinook Group, Los Angeles Food Bank along with other corporations and organizations. When companies are looking for a straight-forward, interactive and fun session with massive value they call on Maurice to deliver his “W.I.N. at Life” Keynote.

Are you stuck? Are you frustrated? Edie O’Reilly is fiercely committed to guiding you to achieve a satisfying, gratifying, and exciting life. Edie has over 13 years’ experience working with clients. Her mission and commitment are to empower individuals in understanding their own GPS system to guide them through life. While in her 20’s in the Peace Corps, Edie realized the value, benefit, and self-satisfaction of being of service to others. Her path to becoming an Empowering Transformational Coach became clear. While in her 30’s, she had one of her most amazing life experiences. She trained in natural medicine with Ayurvedic doctors in Kerala, India. Edie welcomes listeners to subscribe to her newsletter for insights, information, and details of upcoming training events. You can find Edie at edieoreilly.com

What if you could discover your unique gifts, your genius and can get paid for being you? Then learn from Li-Min Huang. What if you could launch a business that’s aligned with your passion and purpose? What if you could identify and attract the people you are meant to serve? What if you could get more clients, make more money for being you? Li-Min Huang is a Business Clarity and Success coach. She helps ambitious and purpose-driven female service-based entrepreneurs get crystal clear on their gifts, build a business that leverages their genius and aligns with their passion and purpose so they can create their dream lifestyle and make the impact on their tribe. Li had over ten years of experiences in technology as a project manager. She was a top account executive in IT training and was awarded Sales Person of the Year. As an entrepreneur, Li acquired and set up operations for 12 rental properties across seven states. She also developed a brand marketing business generating over 2 million dollars in revenue within three years.