The Speaker Lab

“Client communication just doesn't cut it anymore. In 2025 we have so many generations working together, we want to rush right to the product, but we have to learn how to use these people first communication skills.”Jason Raitz is proof that success as a speaker isn't about overnight wins or waiting for an opportunity to knock—it's about grit, clarity, and a relentless focus on serving others. Starting from a childhood love of the stage (and a knack for bribing friends with cookies), Jason spent years speaking in churches and schools before finally stepping into the corporate world, but this pivot didn't come easy.For years, Jason juggled ministry with speaking gigs, sometimes feeling invisible and fighting off imposter syndrome—especially when the dream career didn't materialize quickly. The breakthrough came when he stopped trying to speak to everyone and niched down, listening deeply to the needs of his new audience: financial professionals. That decision, plus hours of research and talking with industry leaders, turned Speak with People from an idea into a respected business.Jason's message is simple but necessary: real impact happens when you communicate with people, not at them. His journey is a masterclass in perseverance—reminding us it's not about being the loudest voice in the room, but being the one willing to listen, adapt, and keep going even when it's tough.You'll learn:Running a business with a nonprofit mindsetNiching down and focusing on a specific marketDifferentiating companies from personal brandsDifficulties in breaking into the church speaking circuitHow financial necessity is a driving factor in career decisionsThe challenges of adapting messages and deliveryThe importance of being a health communicatorAdapting content creation and sales approachesAnd much, much more!“I want to teach people how to be a healthy communicator, to be able to speak from a place of health on the inside. Because if your inner world is chaos, what comes out of your mouth is not going to be great.”Episode ResourcesJason's Website2 Day Booked & Paid BootcampGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Ultimately, you don't need to have any certification. You need to have some level of experience where you can speak authentically and congruent. It's gotta be congruent with how you feel about your knowledge.”Clinton Young knows what it's like to hit rock bottom—and how to turn that experience into fuel for an inspiring speaking career. After losing his business and confidence during the 2008 financial crisis, everything shifted thanks to a tough-love moment at a seminar and a game-changing podcast episode. Now, as a sought-after speaker and coach, Clinton helps others build clarity, confidence, and the systems they need to get booked and paid to speak.Clinton's secret sauce? It's all about systems—the thing that separates hobby speakers from true professionals. Instead of trying to talk to everyone about everything, he challenges speakers to focus on what they're great at (credibility), what fires them up (excitability), and where the real opportunities are (profitability). The biggest thing that holds most people back? Imposter syndrome. Clinton's quick to remind us that even the best feel uncertain sometimes, but the key is taking action anyway—and shifting the focus from your own nerves to the people you're there to serve.Success in speaking isn't about waiting for gigs to magically appear—you've got to have a clear system, a focused message, and the drive to keep showing up. Clinton's story is proof that when you ditch the “someday” mindset and get serious about building the right framework, you can turn speaking into a real, thriving career—no matter where you're starting from.You'll learn:The importance of systems in speakingOvercoming limiting beliefs and imposter syndromeManaging nerves and the psychological side of speakingHow to identify audiences and topicsA framework for finding your nicheUnderstanding and establishing credibilityBuilding relationships with event organizersHow to stand out among other speakersAnd much, much more!“And by far, in my opinion, the biggest thing that stops people is ourselves. It's our own limiting beliefs around, “Can we get paid?”Episode ResourcesClinton's Website2 Day Booked & Paid BootcampGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“When we're intentional about pursuing our dreams, that's when we can see things more clearly. Because most of the time we get so busy in the everyday that we don't take time for those things. And those things are not just going to happen, right?”Amy Burton, a once-high school Spanish and theater teacher turned powerhouse speaker, is redefining the classroom experience for educators everywhere. Broadcasting from the chilly terrains of Alaska, Amy is here to offer her inspirational journey from the classroom to the stage. Having successfully transitioned from homeschooling her neurodivergent children to running not one, but two impactful businesses, Amy shares how her inherent love for those "aha moments" in teaching guided her to a career in speaking. In this episode, Amy dives into the nitty-gritty of translating her passion into practical impact, highlighting how she uses her expertise to coach educators on reducing stress and conflict in classrooms through understanding the brain's workings.Join us as Amy talks about the challenges and triumphs of embracing one's gifts, the raw truth about pursuing something bigger than yourself despite the fears, and why starting small can be powerful. Whether you're curious about breaking into the speaking world or looking for inspiration to take the next step in your own journey, Amy's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, intentional growth, and the courage to follow your passion. Tune in for practical insights, empowering moments, and a few chuckles as Amy shines a light on the path to pursuing your true calling!You'll learn:Coaching techniques to improve classroom environmentsOvercoming personal hurdlesHow to diversify speaking opportunitiesUtilizing virtual platforms due to geographic limitationsThe importance of mentorship and guidanceAbout recognizing effort as a key driver of successAnd much, much more!“Where I am now isn't where I'm going to be, but where I am now is a benefit to where I want to be.”Episode ResourcesAmy's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Travel Hacks Every Speaker Should Know with Chris Hutchins“If you don't want to play the sign up bonus game, optimize where you're spending but always be getting more than 2x on everything.”Navigating the world of travel optimization can feel overwhelming, but our guest this week, Chris Hutchins, is here to break it all down. Chris, host of the All the Hacks podcast, is a master of the travel hacking world and joins us to share his insights on making the most of your travel experiences, especially as a frequent speaker. Chris dives into the importance of loyalty when it comes to earning coveted airline miles and hotel upgrades. By picking a favorite and sticking with it, you can unlock perks that make travel more enjoyable and often less expensive. Additionally, he discusses the evolution of earning points through credit card spend and how it's shifted the landscape of travel rewards, making it more accessible for those who play the game strategically.Whether it's snagging an elusive flight upgrade or scoring a better hotel room, Chris shares practical tips and personal anecdotes on optimizing travel through smart credit card use and award booking strategies. He breaks down the value of different loyalty programs, encouraging you to think about where you fly most often and aligning your strategy accordingly. In this episode, Chris also explores the world of airport lounges and rental cars, offering hacks on how to gain access without necessarily spending a fortune. Plus, his unique perspective on balancing the allure of points with the practicality of cashback offers valuable insights for anyone looking to travel smarter. Listen in and discover how small shifts in your travel planning can lead to big rewards both personally and professionally!You'll learn:The importance of travel optimization for speakersWhy loyalty matters for gaining travel rewardsHow to adapt to changes in loyalty programsStrategies for maximizing loyalty programsPoints and miles optimizationPsychological impact of using points versus cashMethods for securing upgraded flights and hotel staysThe best ways to get access to airport loungesChris' travel tips and hacksAnd much, much more!“You could have top tier status with every hotel and every airline without ever spending one night in any of them.”Episode ResourcesChris' WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Knowing who you are as an individual on the spiritual side of life helps guide you to who you are created to be.”One of the coolest parts of TSL is watching our coaches work 1:1 with students and helping them find the clarity and confidence they need to take their speaking businesses to the next level. And today, you're going to get to see that process in action.We're back with another live coaching episode with Erick Rheam! This week, Erick is helping two former TSL students, Bryan Marvel and Jill Christensen, work through real problems they're facing in their speaking businesses.Bryan, a pastor and faith-based speaker, discusses his journey of balancing pastoral duties with speaking engagements. Embarking on a speaking career can often feel challenging, especially when you're trying to find your unique voice amidst diverse audience expectations. Bryan's focus on spiritual identity has led him to explore innovative ways to expand his reach, such as targeting midweek speaking opportunities and tapping into personal connections to open new doors.Jill offers a compelling story of reinvention and persistence. Specializing in workplace culture and HR, Jill demonstrates the importance of a structured approach to client communication. Her commitment to building relationships and consistently engaging with past clients highlights the need for adaptability and fresh content.Both speakers tackle challenges like burnout and refining their processes, offering insights into the power of systematic approaches and networking. Whether you're a newbie or a veteran, this episode is packed with practical lessons on adaptability, innovation, and leveraging connections to build a flourishing speaking career!You'll learn:Bryan's background and his target audienceStrategies for expanding weekday speaking opportunitiesAbout Jill's eight-year speaking careerHow to overcome communication barriersThe importance of having a system in place for speaking successAnd much, much more!“You might think I should be speaking to CEOs and leaders because they own how we do things, but I was smart enough to recognize that they outsource to human resources in ninety-five percent of organizations.”Episode ResourcesBryan's WebsiteJill's WebsiteJoin A Future Live Coaching EpisodeGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The speaking industry is one that has been around for generations…And it has survived wars, depressions, recessions, 9/11, pandemics, and it's not going anywhere.”Navigating the speaking industry can seem daunting with its ever-shifting trends and economic uncertainties. So this week, drawing from his extensive experience in the field, Shawn Hanks offers his seasoned perspective on how speakers can thrive amidst these changes.Shawn discusses the current optimism in the event market despite past economic caution as a result of the pandemic. Event planners are investing wisely in speakers who offer real strategic solutions, not just entertainment. This reinforces the importance of aligning speaking content with what organizations seek. The episode also highlights the enduring value of live events. While virtual events gained traction, they haven't supplanted the critical face-to-face human interaction that live gatherings offer.Additionally, Shawn advises speakers to balance staying current with trends like AI, without losing sight of timeless topics such as leadership or innovation. Authenticity remains crucial—chasing trends for the sake of visibility may backfire, but sticking to your core passions ensures long-term success. This adaptability while staying true to your message is key to maintaining a successful speaking career. For speakers, whether new or seasoned, Shawn's insights offer guidance on crafting a fulfilling and enduring career in the speaking industry!You'll learn:The nature of public speakingThe state of the speaking industryGrowth and trends in the speaking industry for 2025How economic considerations impact speakersThe future of the speaking industryContent evolution for speakersAnd much, much more!“Event planners aren't booking a speaker, they are solving a problem and the speaker is the avenue to solve that problem.”Episode ResourcesShawn's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“If you are thinking about doing something long term, test it internally, be an intrapreneur, right? Go create something amazing for your company and see if you enjoy doing it.”Jenny Wood's transition from a high-flying Google executive to an influential public speaker is nothing short of inspiring. After spending eighteen years at Google, Jenny chose to follow her passion for public speaking, resulting in a story of passion, relentless improvement, and the power of authenticity. She joins us today to share her experiences, the nitty-gritty of making it as a speaker, and the wisdom she's garnered along the way.One crucial element of Jenny's approach is her dedication to constantly improving her craft. By working with a keynote consultant and continuously analyzing her presentations, she shows that learning and adapting are key to success in speaking. Jenny is also candid about dealing with imposter syndrome and the challenges of leaving a secure job, demonstrating that courage is essential when facing the unknown.Furthermore, a significant part of Jenny's strategy has been leveraging her book, Wild Courage, as a tool to establish her voice in the market. She uses it not just as a revenue source, but as a means to spark meaningful conversations and draw connections with her audience. Understanding the business side of speaking, from setting fees to engaging with speaker bureaus, is another area where Jenny offers valuable insights.Jenny's journey highlights the importance of embracing one's unique voice. Her story teaches us that success is about being true to oneself, learning from failures, and continually striving for excellence. For those starting out in speaking, Jenny's experience is a beacon, showing that with dedication and strategic planning, a fulfilling speaking career is within reach.You'll learn:Jenny's speaker pricing strategyAbout Jenny's book launchMultiple revenue streams and book profitabilityIf books are necessary for personal brandingJenny's transition from corporate to speakingChallenges of entrepreneurshipOvercoming fear and uncertaintyCombating imposter syndromeAnd much, much more!“There was some level of high net freedom that was appealing to me of just being on my own.”Episode ResourcesJenny's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“We use visual tools and common language, so we share tools as if they're mirrors so that the mirror does the heavy lifting and you get self awareness through looking at the mirror.”Navigating the world of speaking and building a unique brand can be daunting in the early stages of your career. So this week on The Speaker Lab Podcast, Jeremie Kubicek joins Grant Baldwin to shed light on the strategic integration of speaking into a broader mission. Jeremie's journey into the content space began with a strong focus on vision, aiming not just for individual fame, but for a transformative impact on leadership culture worldwide.Throughout the episode, Jeremie highlights the importance of aligning speaking with your overarching vision and mission. He discusses the unique business model he's built, which involves seven hundred coaches and consultants speaking on his content, enabling a scalable impact without the sole reliance on his personal speaking engagements. This model fosters long-term partnerships and creates sustainable revenue streams beyond the traditional cycle of publishing and promoting books. However, being at the forefront of this innovative model comes with its own set of challenges, prompting Jeremie to share insights into the balance between content creation and personal engagement.Jeremie and Grant's conversation offers invaluable lessons in creating content that transcends individual endeavors. By focusing on building a lasting enterprise, speakers can find a path that aligns with both personal and professional goals. With a new book on the horizon, Jeremie exemplifies how to harness speaking as a pivotal component of a larger, mission-driven business strategy. This episode is packed with guidance for those looking to innovate and grow their speaking careers, whether they are just starting out or seeking the next level of impact!You'll learn:Strategies for leadership cultureRole of speaking in spreading contentModel of licensing contentDifferentiating personal vision from competitionJeremie's personal journey into speakingBuilding and managing major eventsBest practices for speakersUsing AI in content creationAnd much, much more!“I want to take more time on the front end to really, really know and understand what [speakers] are trying to accomplish.”Episode ResourcesJeremie's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I knew it was important for me as I built my business to develop markers of credibility, and that would make everything easier. Like the wind is at your back when you have enough credentials that people can say, ‘I'll listen to her.'”In this episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast, host Grant Baldwin is joined by Dorie Clark to talk about an important topic for every speaker — establishing yourself as a thought leader. Dorie breaks down how she manages the tension between choosing a niche and maintaining her broader interests, as well as her primary strategy of letting the market decide for her.The episode also explores the three pillars of thought leadership, as outlined by Dorie: content creation, social proof, and networking. Dorie shares her experiences with building social proof, including the rigorous process of cold pitching to prestigious business schools and publications, a key step on her journey to gaining credibility and establishing authority.Grant and Dorie also discuss the importance of balancing immediate financial needs with long-term strategic goals. They emphasize the necessity of dedicating time to long-term projects while managing day-to-day responsibilities, drawing on principles like the manager and maker day framework to optimize productivity.Throughout the conversation, Dorie provides actionable insights into the practice of thought leadership, such as the importance of nurturing influential connections and choosing a content medium that aligns with personal strengths and interests. This episode is packed with valuable advice for speakers and entrepreneurs looking to elevate their careers through strategic thought leadership and effective brand positioning.You'll learn:Why you should create intellectual propertyThe importance of building multiple revenue streamsThe concept and components of thought leadershipStrategies on niching and market choicesCold pitching and building social proofHow to balance immediate revenue needs with long-term planningAnd much, much more!“The upshot of all these situations where people said send me some stuff and then didn't respond, meant that I had this reservoir of pitch ideas.”Episode ResourcesDorie's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“You have to regularly find things where the challenge exceeds the skill set."In this week's episode of The Speaker Lab Podcast, speaker and author Jon Acuff joins Grant to talk about the challenge of maintaining excellence as a speaker and the importance of continually pushing yourself beyond your comfort zones.Jon also took the time to break down his successful speaking model, primarily focusing on keynotes and the occasional longer training engagements. There are pros and cons to every speaking business model, and Jon talks through what has worked well for him over his extensive speaking career. Additionally, Jon talks about making a transition from solopreneur to business owner and how he brought in a partner and president to scale his business and reach a larger audience. This transition was driven by Jon's desire to take his business to another level, prevent boredom, and not hide from potential growth.Moreover, Grant and Jon also discuss the challenges of being honest with yourself about strengths and weaknesses and focusing on areas where you can excel. The conversation shifts to Jon's decision to host a live event, including insights into how he has navigated planning, content creation, and incorporating various elements like engaging stories and audience interaction.Finally, Grant and Jon touch on the variety of potential business expansions Jon is considering, including workshops, masterminds, and enhancing social media presence while balancing personal enjoyment with business requirements. Overall, the episode provides great insights into Jon's speaking career, his strategic business decisions, and the meticulous efforts that go into creating meaningful content and events in the speaking industry!You'll learn:How Jon built a successful speaking careerWhat goes into hosting a live eventHow to master speaking business structureHow to balance your speaking career with personal lifeWays to improve your content and delivery at live eventsHow to continue your personal and professional growthAnd much, much more!“How do I create enough value for an audience where they feel like they got a deal at a high ticket event?Episode ResourcesJon's WebsiteRemarkable You Event (Use code PODCAST50 for $50 off your ticket!)Get Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Most successful or thought leadership businesses are extremely simple. They sell one thing at the front end, maybe a couple things on the back end…but they're experts in X, Y, and Z.”In this episode of The Speaker Lab podcast, we explore the importance of keeping things simple and intentional in the ever-changing world of speaking and entrepreneurship. Grant Baldwin sits down with Taylorr Payne, co-founder of SpeakerFlow, for an engaging discussion on building a thriving speaking business by focusing on simplicity, clarity, and defining success on your terms.Taylorr opens up about his evolution as an entrepreneur, sharing how he transitioned from chasing endless opportunities to honing in on the fundamentals that truly matter. Whether it's mastering the art of selling one core product, cutting through the distracting noise of shiny new technologies, or resisting the temptations of comparison, Taylorr emphasizes the transformative power of simplifying your business approach.Throughout the conversation, Taylorr and Grant analyze the speaking industry's trends for 2025, the allure of AI and other new technologies, and the critical difference between chasing growth for its own sake versus creating a business that aligns with your personal goals and values. Taylorr reminds listeners to resist societal pressures to grow endlessly and instead focus on building a business that fits their lifestyle and passions.This episode is packed with convincing arguments for staying in your lane, avoiding the pitfalls of overcomplication, and gradually building clarity about your unique expertise. Whether you're an aspiring speaker finding your niche or a seasoned entrepreneur reevaluating your path, you'll walk away with actionable strategies and a renewed sense of purpose. Tune in to take control of your speaking career with simplicity and intention at the core!You'll learn:Taylorr's background and about SpeakerFlowThe state of the speaking industry in 2025Key principles for a successful speaking businessHow to balance growth and simplicityPersonal reflection and business goalsThe risk of comparison on your mental well-beingInvesting and business strategy parallelsAnd much, much more!“What are you an expert in? Make the world know that, period. That is it. That is forever what we're doing.”Episode ResourcesTaylorr's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“It's your vision that influences which way you go. Because you've already thought about it ahead of time.”In this episode of The Speaker Lab podcast, Erick Rheam joins us to talk about what it takes to navigate the chaotic and often overwhelming journey of being a speaker and entrepreneur. You've probably heard Erick on the show before, but today he's sharing a different side of things with candid advice drawn from his own rock-bottom moment and the life-changing principles he discovered to rise above the chaos.Erick's journey is a compelling blend of personal and professional growth, underscored by moments of introspection and dramatic change. From his early struggles in 2005—marked by personal and professional setbacks—to discovering his 'why' and taming the inner beast, Erick provides a riveting narrative that is both inspiring and practical for anyone looking to succeed in the speaking industry. He touches on the importance of living with clarity, leveraging encouragement, and mastering human dynamics, all essential tools for rising above life's challenges.Through Erick's story, listeners gain valuable lessons on embracing their spiritual journey, managing their energy and priorities, and building meaningful connections. Erick underscores the idea that significance and peace come not from a lack of chaos but from rising above it with intention and purpose.Whether you're a new speaker or an experienced entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt anecdotes that encourage you to chart your path to significance. So tune in, and equip yourself with the wisdom to rise above the chaos and live a life of meaning and influence!You'll learn:Erick's rise above chaos frameworkEmbracing your spiritual journeyTaming your inner criticHow to leverage encouragementIgniting your influenceMastering communication and human dynamicsAnd much, much more!“Ask yourself what makes you come alive and do that.”Episode ResourcesErick's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“[AI is] a really great way to flex your creative muscle, but also not have to stress if you're not strong enough at certain things.”Being on stage is one of the most fun and most rewarding parts of being a professional, paid speaker — but as all experienced speakers know, what happens on stage is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to building a successful speaking business. This week on The Speaker Lab Podcast, Grant Baldwin chats with Brittany Richmond-Roberts about her journey as a teen mental health speaker. From navigating the youth market to leveraging social media and AI, Brittany shares her strategies for moving the business forward, even when it feels like trudging through mud.Grant and Brittany dive into how she got started in speaking, the importance of finding the right audience, and why she stays clear of gigs that don't align with her message. They discuss the power of being a female speaker in a male-dominated field and how Brittany has used that to her advantage. Brittany also highlights how she utilizes social media to connect with decision-makers and build relationships, making her memorable to potential clients. She explains her approach to using ChatGPT for prospecting and structuring talks, providing a modern edge to her speaking business.If you're ready to take your speaking business to the next level, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring insights!You'll learn:How to master audience alignmentThe market for mental health topicsThe role of gender in speakingEffective social media strategies for speakersHow to use AI in prospectingHow to be Persistent and overcome rejection And much, much more!“If you're not having fun doing [social media], stop doing it. Because that's going to radiate right into everything that you're doing.”Episode ResourcesBrittany's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Speed in this game is so important. It is typically the first speaker to reach back out…you have a really good chance of winning that business if you are the first.”Navigating the intricate world of professional speaking requires not just talent but also a keen understanding of the business side of things. In this insightful episode, Grant Baldwin welcomes back his good friend Brandon Edmonson, Sales Director for Premier Speakers Bureau, for his fourth appearance on the podcast. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or just starting out, Brandon's expertise in the industry offers invaluable tips and strategies that can elevate your speaking career.Brandon dives deep into the nitty-gritty of booking speaking gigs, sharing why it's critical to ask, "Who did you have last year?" This key question can unlock a wealth of information, from budget constraints to event expectations. Brandon emphasizes the importance of speed in the speaking business, urging speakers to respond quickly to inquiries to set a positive tone for future interactions.Grant and Brandon also explore the art of balancing sales and relationships. Building rapport with event planners, understanding their needs, and positioning yourself as a solution to their problems are crucial steps in securing bookings. Brandon encourages speakers to add value in every interaction, whether it's through well-timed follow-ups or personalized video messages.Additionally, Brandon discusses how consistency in your rates fosters trust with clients, touching on the delicate balance of negotiation.This episode offers a treasure trove of practical advice, from how to handle incoming leads to navigating the complexities of travel costs and geographical pricing variations. Don't miss out on this episode if you're looking to take your speaking business to the next level. Brandon's wisdom could be the key to your next big speaking gig!You'll learn:The importance of understanding event historyAbout the sales process for speakersThe role of speed in bookingStrategies for relationship building & outreachBalancing sales & serving event plannersHandling inquiries & initial conversationsKey questions for gauging event seriousnessNegotiation tacticsAnd much, much more!“Be honest, be genuine, be human in that process. Just how you would want to be.”Episode ResourcesBrandon's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The biggest mistake that I see speakers make is that they think that if you just go on stage, and you do a good job speaking, the spinoff business will magically present itself.”Being on stage is pretty much always the most fun and most rewarding part of being a professional paid speaker — but as all experienced speakers know, what happens on stage is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to building a successful speaking business. This week, Arel Moodie joins the show to break down how to find more paid gigs in your chosen niche through what Arel calls "spinoff business." Arel and Grant talk about how to build a solid reputation, nurture relationships, and leverage connections to turn one speaking gig into two or three more. Arel goes into detail about his challenges while starting out as a speaker and what tools he used to break into the industry and get past the toughest part: getting his first gig. Finally, Arel talks about a tool called Talkadot that speakers can use to expand their reach and build more connections from the stage. If you're ready to take your speaking business to the next level, this is a must-listen episode for you!You'll learn:The 3 types of people in every audienceWhy spinoff business is importantHow to build a stellar reputationWhy you should join a local Chamber of CommerceHow to use Talkadot to grow your speaking businessAnd so much more!“Clients will book you if they have confidence that you have done well with a group like theirs in the past.”Episode Resources:Arel's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The show must go on baby. You gotta keep going man. Never know what's gonna happen when you're doing it live with no net, you never know.”Being a professional speaker means navigating some of the craziest and most unpredictable moments imaginable. This week, Shane Sams joins Grant on the show to recount some of his funniest and most challenging moments on the speaking trail. You never know what you're going to encounter when you're walking into a speaking gig, but the best speakers know how to roll with the punches and "be a pro" even when things go completely off the rails. Shane and Grant have some great advice on how to handle the unexpected and chaotic moments, all learned from their own experiences over the years.Shane also opens up about his struggles with his health and how he learned to deal with burnout. Balancing your health with the exhausting lifestyle of living on the road can be a challenge for any speaker, but finding your own boundaries and thresholds is incredibly important. This lighthearted and engaging conversation is something you don't want to miss. From flying squirrels to napping audience members, you'll hear some incredible war stories from Shane and Grant this week that will make you laugh and teach you how to navigate your own challenging moments in the future. You'll learn:How to navigate the hard moments on stageWhy composure & humor are your best toolsWhat honest communication can do for your relationshipsThe importance of prioritizing your mental & physical healthWhy you should learn from the prosAnd much, much more!“You gotta say the words whether anyone is paying attention or not.”Episode Resources:Shane's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Whenever someone comes up and says ‘Hey, why am I not getting booked to speak?', my first question is 'how many professionals did you call today?'"One of the best parts about being a speaker is that YOU get to decide what your speaking career looks like. Your story is unique, and the value you bring to your audience is something only you can deliver. This week, Ryan Vet joins us on the show to talk about how he found his way to a speaking career that was perfect for his strengths and passions. Ryan got his start as a speaker when he was still in high school, and he hasn't looked back since. And while everyone often thinks of paid speaking as being primarily keynotes, Ryan points out that the majority of paid gigs are often other formats. For his part, Ryan fell in love with training and found it incredibly fulfilling to help people immediately make changes in their lives and companies. During this episode, he shares some practical advice on how to find the path that is right for you — along with some horror stories and funny moments from his new book, Speak Goodr. This is a solid episode that will encourage you to take the next (or first!) step in your speaking journey! You'll learn:How to be clear about your messageWhy you should embrace who you are as a speakerHow to be thoughtful when it comes to your businessWhat benefits come from watching your game tapesWhy you need to figure out your ideal personaAnd much, much more!“You have to solve a problem with what you sell.”Episode Resources:Ryan's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“All that matters is that you show up, and that you're consistently doing it, because if you do it on a regular basis… you're going to get better at it.”"How do I find and book more paid speaking gigs quickly?" "I'm just starting out, what should I prioritize right now?"Here at TSL, we hear those two questions from speakers more than anything else. Whether you've never gotten paid to speak or you've been speaking for years, there's a good chance you're looking for more paid gigs. And if you're like most business owners, you don't have a lot of time to invest in building a new business without seeing some results. This week, Erick Rheam is here to break down the four pillars of success that you can use to jumpstart your speaking business and start booking paid gigs in as little as 90 days or less. Erick breaks down what really matters if you want to be a successful speaker, including long-term goals, testing the market, your CRM, efficiency, accountability partners and consistency. Finally, Erick gives you some practical ways to evaluate where you stand in your speaking career. This episode is a simple, practical roadmap to launching a speaking business and getting paid gigs in a short period of time — no matter how much speaking experience you have right now. If you don't make time for any other podcast episode this month, make sure you listen to this one. We'll see you out on the speaking trail! You'll learn:How to evaluate the next steps for you as a speakerThe easiest way to prospect gigsA game changer towards your growthWhy you need to build off your momentumWhy you should never push off your daily tasksHow a “power hour” worksAnd much, much more!“If you want to be a successful speaker, you have to be consistent.”Episode Resources:Erick Rheam's WebsiteErick Rheam's AbstractGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“You can't need to be liked if you're in a leadership position, and I'd say the same if you're in a speaking position, cause you will say things that people don't agree with, and that's okay.”As a speaker, very few things matter more than establishing your credibility and expertise. This week, communication expert Jenni Field joins us to talk about how to build your credibility and become a leader that people will follow. Jenni is a firm believer in the importance of establishing your expertise and building your credibility, and she's here with some practical tips on how to make that happen. Jenni found a void in the industry she knows best and figured out how to fill it. During this episode, she'll detail the expertise, research, and likability needed to make you genuinely needed for gigs. Jenni talks about how audiences can sense you care or not and how to work with your viewers so that your effort can be seen on stage.Jenni has been through hard moments of her own, like in the end of 2022 when her business was failing, and she no longer loved what she was doing. She will share some lessons she learned from the heavy moments, including how she pulled herself out of that rut and pushed herself into a better space mentally and financially. Jenni took the time to know herself and what works for her, and she'll talk about how you can do that for yourself as well.You'll learn:How to channel your passion effectivelyThe most important steps to build your speaking careerWhat likability means for youWhy finding your purpose is keyHow to grow by trying new thingsAnd so much more!“People won't ask you to speak unless you've got something to say.”Episode Resources:Jenni's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“When you have an idea, you should capture that idea and put it somewhere, because you're basically training your brain that ideas are important and I value them.”Finding your own brand of creativity and being unique can feel like a struggle in the beginning stages of your career. This week, Kyle Scheele joins us to share some tips on that topic drawn from his own journey of using his crazy ideas to stand out. Kyle started his career early in life when he landed a t-shirt line through Urban Outfitters across the USA and Canada. Over the course of his speaking career, Kyle has gone viral on TikTok multiple times, spoken to both youth audiences and corporate events, and over time switched paths from primarily speaking in the education space to working with larger corporate events. He believes his approachability, understandable advice, and genuine entertainment have taken him to the next level, and he's here to tell you how to develop those things for yourself.However, at every stage of his career (like most speakers), Kyle has had his doubts about the risks he took. During this episode, Kyle talks about how he overcame those fears by knowing and believing that he had talking points that worked. Trial and error can be difficult to embrace, but it's a key part of learning how to grow as a world-renowned speaker. This is a great episode with a lot of practical lessons for speakers — both new and veteran alike. You'll learn:How to find where your story intersects with the marketWhy you need to question assumptionsThe importance of honest feedbackWhy you should lean on the content in your speech that worksHow to act on your ideasAnd much, much more!“To be human is to be creative.”Episode Resources:Kyle's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“People get excited about different. How can you be explained & summed up in one sentence? How can you be the only in your industry?”Finding what makes you unique in this industry is no easy journey, but our guest this week knows all too well why being different is your greatest asset. Jesse Cole is the proud owner of the Savannah Bananas, an exhibition baseball team that ESPN called "the greatest show in sports." Jesse is best known for his iconic yellow suit and the fun he brings across the world with the Bananas, but beyond that, he's a well known and highly sought after speaker. Jesse is here to share how he found success in his life and career simply by being his genuine self — and how you can do the same.Jesse also talks about how to approach branding, marketing, and promoting yourself — and why sometimes you just have to put yourself out there. You might fail, but the only way to succeed is just to keep swinging for the fences. This is a fascinating episode with tons of solid advice for speakers at every stage of their career — don't miss this one! You'll learn:How to appreciate & embrace what makes you distinctWhy empathy should be one of your biggest toolsThe value of genuine entertainmentWhy trial and error is beneficial to your brandHow small bets start everythingAnd so much more!“If I can share, and hopefully inspire people, that gives me a ton of energy”Episode Resources:Jesse's WebsiteJesse's InstagramJesse's LinkedInGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“One of the easiest ways to demonstrate your value in the sales conversation is to not try to sell yourself, it's to show them you understand the puzzle they're trying to solve. If you can show somebody that you understand their puzzle, they'll trust you with a solution."One of the most challenging things that all speakers face — at all stages of their speaking career — is overcoming fear of rejection. If you're a new speaker, you might be surprised that even veteran speakers still struggle with things like confidence and beating imposter syndrome. Constantly having to pitch yourself and establish your value is never easy, no matter how many times you do it. So, how do you overcome all of that and feel confident in who you are, the value you bring, and the fee you charge? This week's guest has some great advice on that. Phil M. Jones is a world-class speaker (and friend of the podcast) who teaches people how to know Exactly What To Say in all areas of life. This week, Phil is breaking down how to build your confidence and master tough conversations without feeling personally rejected or passed over. Phil also talks about why you need to vet potential gigs just as much as they vet you as a potential speaker — after all, speaking is a two-sided business. From start to finish, this episode is a masterclass in learning how to embrace uncertainty and maintain your confidence as you navigate hard conversations and negotiations. No matter where you are in your speaking journey, you're going to want to hear this. You'll learn:Why you should thoughtfully pick your gigsThe difference between arrogance and convictionHow to overcome self doubtHow to cater your talks to each businessWhat 4 things event planners find the most valuableWhy it's a good thing to lose gigsAnd much, much more!“You have to work like your life depends on the money, and play like you don't need it.”Episode Resources:Phil's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I might not be world class ever, ever, but I'm definitely gonna be way better than I was on my own, and without the reps.”Josh Shipp has had a brilliant career providing knowledge to thousands of people. Today, he joins us to talk about the hard work of making it as a speaker, how to find your strengths, and what you should know at the start of your journey.Josh has frequently worked in the education space with parents, teachers, and students. In fact, he even founded a company dedicated to this training called Youth Speaker University. Josh is here to talk about how to break into this space and why what you do matters on and off stage.Josh also has some great insights to share about drawing inspiration, the great thing about individualism, and learning from your failures. Thoughtfully targeting your niche and your goals is something you have to learn, and Josh is here to walk you through it.You'll learn:The common denominator of successful speakersWhy endurance & self reflection mattersHow there are negatives and positives with innovationWhat you can learn from criticismHow to identify your main topic to speak aboutAnd so much more!“You can learn a ton from those 3 out of 4 that don't book you.”Episode Resources: Topyouthspeakers.comJosh's LinkedinGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“That type of belief is what carries you through when everybody else is dropping like flies. When you know for a fact this is what you're made for, then there's nothing else you can do.” The journey to professional speaking is not always a simple one, and our guest this week knows this all too well. Ken Hartley spent over 20 years serving as a worship pastor (and also worked as a magician!) on the way to becoming a full-time professional speaker. This week, Ken is here to break down how he found his new career in speaking and made the leap of faith that led to this point. With a background in ministry, music, and magic, Ken was no stranger to the stage. However, making the switch to speaking wasn't an easy one. He found himself struggling with the commitment both financially and personally to take the leap, but was encouraged and supported by many family members. In fact, his mom gave him the money to get the training, and 19 months later, he got a gig paying the same amount as the kind gift he was given.It can be difficult to overcome self-doubt, and fear, but Ken will discuss how he worked through those moments, and learned to trust himself and his talent. Plus, his participation in The Speaker Lab as a student shaped the way he works in the business for the better. Each opportunity or gig has led him to new spin offs, and he is the perfect person to learn why showing up for yourself and committing can help you grow for the better.You'll learn:The secret to taking risksWhere to find the right resources for youHow to overcome imposter syndromeWhy you should consider The Speaker Lab for trainingHow to build momentum in your businessAnd so much more!“The only way to get good on stage is to be on stage.”Episode Resources:Ken's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I think of the definition of a creator as someone who sets out to make original work, to educate, inspire, or entertain other people.”There are plenty of simple ways to grow as a speaker, but becoming a creator is one of the easiest ways to expand your speaking business and book more paid gigs!The term "creator" is used frequently (and sometimes negatively), but here's the reality: if you're a speaker, you are already creating content. The next step is to learn how to use and repurpose that content across multiple platforms and channels to grow your audience and build your brand.This week, we're chatting with someone who has helped millions of people create and share their content — Nathan Barry. Nathan is the creator of Kit (formerly known as ConvertKit), the world's largest email-first operating system for creators.Nathan is here to talk about how to build an audience through creating compelling and engaging content, as well as some practical tips on how to grow, automate, and segment your email list. Ultimately, building a content-driven speaking business can be a huge win for you and your speaking career, and Nathan is breaking down exactly how to do that.You'll learn:The difference (and value) of automation & segmentation.How owning an email audience can help land gigsWhy building an email list can only benefit youHow to cater your content to each individualWhy you still need to create an impressive demo videoWhy your interests matter to your audienceAnd so much more!“Don't try to do everything.”Episode Resources:Nathan's WebsiteKit's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“It's very important that the message bearer who's up there selling that idea cares very, very deeply about it, and they would give it just as much energy if there were 5 people in the room, as if there were 5,000 people in the room.”Running your own business is extremely challenging, but doing what you love can make it a bit easier. This week, Jack Galloway joined us on the show to talk about the importance of concentrating on what you care about. Jack got his start working with Dave Ramsey for over 22 years, where he received a behind-the-scenes look into how to build a team from the ground up.Throughout his time at Ramsey Solutions, Jack learned countless lessons about running a business, including the significance of criticism, why simplicity matters, the wisdom that comes with repetition, and much, much more! Jack has a ton of wisdom and advice to share, and I know you'll get a lot out of this episode. You'll learn:The importance of listening to your audience's needsWhy practice makes perfectHow to be successful as a “solo-preneur”To surround yourself with good workers and friendsWhat can make or break a small businessAnd much more!"Focus on keeping the main thing, the main thing”Episode Resources:Jack's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Don't conform to your environment. Everyone else does it, but you need to take that path, that uniqueness that is you, because there is no one like you.”As a former circus clown (yes, an actual circus clown), Dustin Portillo knows a thing or two about showtime. And now as a professional speaker, Dustin has taken that mindset and applied it to delivering value for audiences everywhere. This week, Dustin is here to share the lessons he learned from his wide-ranging career and give you some practical tips on things like mastering stage presence, keeping audiences engaged, and what it takes to leave a corporate job to become a full time speaker.We'll spend time walking through his 5 important principles and why determining what's important to you, really matters. Dustin also talks about some of the most scary moments you can have in the industry and how they can propel you to bigger & better things.You'll learn:The importance of knowing your audienceWhy your value is more than a job titleHow to always have a "showtime mindset"How being relatable can help you excel as a speakerHow to embrace the value of growth And much more!"Don't knock on a wall expecting a door to open”Episode Resources:Dustin's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“You just have to trust that it will work out if you do the right thing. Surround yourself with great people.”There's no easy days when you're an entrepreneur, but figuring out how you can divide and conquer for your business is really important. This week, Jay Papasan joins us to talk about how delegation is a powerful tool that frees you up to do what only you can do best.Jay walks through what it looks like to have a core focus and motivation for your speaking business and how that can help you take your speaking career to the next level. There are a ton of practical tips in this episode on a wide range of topics, including how to juggle all of the responsibilities of running a business, how to grow personally and professionally, how to consistently deliver value for your audience, and so much more. You'll learn:The important difference between your personal brand and your business brandHow to do what you enjoy so you can be at your bestWhat growing your speaking business can look like realisticallyWhen to start leaning on other people to help grow your businessHow delivering consistent value will keep the work comingAnd much more!“We want to be thought-leaders”Episode Resources:Jay Papasan's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"You have to think of it from a relational standpoint, first and foremost, before anything else. And just understand, sometimes things happen, but I never want a client to be upset about paying me. I always want them to pay me and think, man, we got way more than we paid."We talk a lot about the benefits of being a professional speaker, but there are always challenges in any business! This week, Jake Thompson is back on the show to talk about what to do when things don't go the way you planned.Jake is breaking down how to handle things like travel issues, contract disputes, event delays, organizers who won't commit, and more — all pulled from his personal experiences in his speaking business over the past few years. If you want to be a successful speaker in the long run, don't miss this episode!You'll learn:Why you should never miss a gig, no matter whatHow to put yourself in the top category of speakersHow to get event organizers off the fenceWhat to do when your event gets rescheduledHow to handle contract issues and disputesAnd much, much more!"When you're amazing on stage and amazing offstage, it puts you in a completely different bracket."Episode Resources: Jake Thompson's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the coolest parts of TSL is watching our coaches work 1:1 with students and helping them find the clarity and confidence they need to take their speaking businesses to the next level. And today, you're going to get to see that process in action.We're back with another live coaching episode with Erick Rheam! This week, Erick is helping two TSL students, Josie Ann Lee and Kenny Barnwell, work through real problems they're facing in their speaking businesses.Josie Ann is trying to introduce a new idea through her talk to event organizers — but she's not sure how to sell an idea no one is familiar with. Kenny has established himself as the expert in his niche, and now he's ready to take things to the next level by scaling his business through workshops.During this episode, you'll learn:How to get initial traction in your businessHow to refine your message through real world feedbackWhy you just have to get started without waiting for perfectionThe value of establishing yourself as the primary expert in your nicheHow workshops can accelerate your speaking incomeThe most important things to know when adding a workshop to your businessAnd much, much more!Episode Resources:Josie Ann Lee's WebsiteKenny Barnwell's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Every time we make a decision, it is the conclusion of a story that we have built in our minds unconsciously about why that decision does or doesn't make sense."One of the most rewarding parts of being a professional speaker is the feeling of making a difference — the idea that the message you have to share can create real change with your audience. But how do you actually make that happen?Tamsen Webster knows a thing or two about creating an effective message. As the Idea Strategist one of only nine legacy-level TEDx events in the world who has worked for organizations like Harvard Medical School, Fidelity Investments, and Klaviyo, Tamsen has decades of experience in helping speakers develop their message.This week, Tamsen is here to break down how aligning your message with the audience's existing beliefs and desires is the most effective way to create lasting change. If you're ready to make an impact from the stage, this is an episode you can't afford to miss!You'll learn:How to simplify complex ideasWhy storytelling is so powerfulHow to build the "compact case" for your messageThe 7 principles of creating lasting changeHow to harness the "curiosity curve" in your talkHow to turn your basic idea into a finished speech And much, much more!"Lots of people like to quote Maya Angelou — 'They're going to remember how you made them feel.' But wouldn't it be even better if they also remembered what you said in addition to what you made them feel?"Episode Resources:The Compact CaseSay What They Can't Unhear BookEpisode 132 with TamsenEpisode 358 with TamsenGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"I think often we confuse strategy with activity, and we can get stuck in this kind of flywheel of just like, well, I feel busy, I look busy. I did a lot of things today, but what did I actually accomplish?"If you really want to build a successful speaking business, you have to follow the right processes — and be consistent in doing the little things well. Everyone wants to book more paid speaking gigs, but what are the simple, practical things that most speakers miss?Dan Irvin knows a thing or two about building processes to scale your speaking business — in just a few years, he's gone from a full time corporate job to 60 paid gigs in 2023. This week, he's sitting down with Grant to share 7 strategies you can use right now in your speaking business to get more gigs.No matter where you are as a speaker or how many gigs you've booked, you'll get something out of this episode to help you move to the next level. "Find what can you do each and every day consistently, even if it's just one tiny little step that you can do every day versus these massive kind of leaps that I think people oftentimes want to create."Looking for the highlights?02:29 How to build long term relationships in the speaking industry08:35 Why having a strategy is more important than being busy 10:39 How to overcome the challenges of building a speaking business11:38 Why consistent lead generation and follow up is the key to success23:33 How to level up your communication with event organizers27:39 Why your audience (and clients) are craving more from you32:26 The power of referrals in building a speaking business36:05 Why you should give yourself grace in the processEpisode Resources:Dan Irvin's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"You can get rid of that limiting belief that you have to have a talk fully ready before you sell it."One of the hardest things for new and aspiring speakers is putting together a compelling talk. It's hard to move forward until you feel like everything is perfect — but what if you could sell your talk before it even exists?Your best marketing is a great talk — but you don't necessarily need to have that talk fully developed before you pitch it to event organizers.This week, Erick Rheam is back to break down the four main reasons developing your talk first can actually be problematic, along with advice on how to test the market, why prospecting is a superpower for successful speakers, and much, much more!If you're feeling stuck or you're not sure how to get things rolling as a new or aspiring speaker, this is the episode for you."When you're on the phone with an event planner and you're discussing what their needs are, if you're too rigid and you have this talk already developed, and you've got too much time invested in it and too much energy, it's harder to adjust and a little demotivating if you spent all this time building something that the event planner doesn't exactly want."Looking for the highlights?02:58 Four reasons why speakers shouldn't finalize talks before selling them03:54 How to adapt your presentation to meet the event planner's needs.07:00 How to draft a rough idea and adapt it based on feedback10:10 Why you should be flexible with your topic and develop assets around it later13:29 Why it's easier to pivot when you're already in the game18:47 Why you don't need a dramatic story to speak25:51 Why consistent daily prospecting beats sporadic efforts28:05 Why success in speaking requires aligning passion with demand33:01 How deadlines will force preparation and commitmentSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Two things have to be true: one, you have to offer enough value so that they're paying attention. And two, you've got to communicate that value in a believable way, either through a third party or somebody they trust or you directly."It might be cliché, but it's still true: speaking is a relationships business. If you want to be a successful speaker, you have to invest in building relationships every single day — with event planners, with industry leaders, and with other speakers.This week, Grant is sitting down with Mo Bunnell to talk about how to overcome some of the most common obstacles that speakers face in making connections — being "too busy," fearing rejection, and more.Mo recently wrote a book called Give to Grow about how to invest in relationships to build your business and your career, and he has a lot of practical advice that will help you get out of your comfort zone and start building relationships like a pro.If you're struggling to get traction in your speaking business and you're looking for a spark to get things going, this might be the episode you need to hear!"I'll be really bold on this. If somebody is thinking 'I'm too busy to do the next piece of work,' that is a massive excuse and you just need to flush it."Looking for the highlights?03:53 How to fall in love with the process of building relationships07:08 How limiting beliefs can block speakers from achieving success10:20 Why many speakers struggle with promoting themselves15:23 How to maximize face time with key decision-makers20:40 Ways to balance service with getting gigs in conversations25:06 How to understand client needs and stated vs. unstated problems33:01 Why you should reach out quarterly to maintain important relationshipsEpisode Resources:Mo's WebsiteGive to Grow BookGive to Grow LiveGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, we're giving you a behind-the-scenes look at what coaching can do for speakers. Erick Rheam is hosting live coaching sessions this week! These sessions feature TSL students and real problems that speakers face in their businesses.This episode features Molly Kennedy and Theresa Skaar. Molly focuses on shifting her demographics and finding new income sources, while Theresa focuses on overcoming impostor syndrome and selling herself with confidence. A few of their quotes that you might relate to: “I just turned 50 this summer, and I feel like, personally, I'm kind of evolving and growing. I feel like my reach can expand beyond education, although I love teachers. Again, it's kind of an easy space for me, but I also feel like I want to challenge myself to have a broader reach as well." - Molly Kennedy "I don't know if it feels audacious if it feels like so many people position themselves as an expert. And I'm like, you know, I don't know." - Theresa Skaar Want to skim the session? 04:56 Why Molly loves what she does currently08:09 Where she would like to transition into12:52 Erick's ideas on getting into a new market 15:18 Molly's final steps to make the shift 18:51 Where Theresa feels like she's lacking confidence 22:27 How Theresa wishes people felt about aging25:11 What Theresa hopes to accomplish with her work 28:03 Erick advice on how to build confidence and show up as a proEpisode Resources:Connect with Molly on LinkedInFollow Molly on InstagramVisit Molly's WebsiteConnect with Theresa on LinkedInFollow Theresa on InstagramVisit Theresa's WebsiteGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“The key to any industry is not focusing or trying to sell to 98% of your market. You're only trying to sell to that very top percentage of people."If you're a speaker looking to scale your business and add new streams of revenue, you might want to consider launching a high ticket offer. This week, Grant sat down with Bryan Harris to chat about the value a high-ticket offering can bring to your business, how to get started, and some tips on developing these offerings in your own business.Thinking about what's next for your business? A high-ticket offering just might be for you!“Our mission is to make it almost impossible to fail at getting customers."In this episode, they also cover: 00:00 What do Bryan and his team do?04:41 Why should people consider a high-ticket offering?08:22 How do you think about finding your target market for this offering?09:27 What can your business look like in practice?13:33 How does support vary in you business and other places in your life?19:11 What can you do to ensure your clients get what they need?21:47 How do you continue to create value for your high-ticket offerings?24:17 What does it look like to sell to your target market?27:56 Book a free strategy session with Bryan's team31:10 How can you leverage this as a speaker?Episode Resources: Growth Tools WebsiteConnect with Bryan on LinkedInFollow Growth Tools on YoutubeFollow Bryan on TwitterFree Strategy Session with Growth Tools TeamExplore List SwapGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"If you've got a working keynote that has structure that you've been honing for a while, you probably have the bones of a book." - Liz Morrow "If you are someone who is highly entrepreneurial and you feel like you really value having a lot of creative control over the end product and you don't mind doing the hard, you know, kind of manual work of putting all of those systems in place and really championing your book yourself, then self publishing could be a great choice for you." - Ariel Curry This week, Liz Morrow and Ariel Curry joined Grant to talk about the process of book writing for speakers. If you've ever thought about writing a book, this is the episode for you! Liz and Ariel have been at it as writers and editors for years, so they bring first-hand knowledge to the conversation about the process of writing and selling a book.In this episode, Grant, Liz, and Ariel cover: 05:31 What's involved in building a platform to sell a book? 08:34 Pros and cons of self-publishing vs traditional publishing.12:53 How do you find angles to sell a lot of books? 14:19 Why are speakers positioned uniquely to write great books? 18:59 How does the book mapping process make a difference when it's time to write? 20:42 What is the structure you recommend to writing a nonfiction book? 24:30 How do you use the book map to align your content as you write? 29:31 Are there ways to use AI to make the book-writing process easier? 32:41 Why should someone write a book? 35:14 Final advice for people still on the fence about writing a book. "And these are people who have multimillion dollar businesses. They have 4 million Instagram followers. They've got multiple six figures of email subscribers. I mean, these are people who think would have all the justification in the world that they have something worth sharing, and they still worry, am I good enough?" - Liz Morrow "The quality of the idea matters because people want something that is surprising. People want something that is new, and it's really hard to define." - Ariel Curry Episode Resources: Buy Liz and Ariel's Book - Hungry AuthorsFollow Hungry Authors on FacebookFollow Hungry Authors on InstagramGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I'm really passionate about solving the same problem that they're passionate about solving. I have a unique ability that I'm willing to share."How do you write your own story and become the speaker you've dreamed about being? This week, Brittany Richmond and Jake White are answering that question and talking about when to scale your business, how to find your niche, and so much more.“If you want to accelerate faster, then you need quality time with the people that buy what you offer. I need to partner with the perfect match, learn their language, how they're funded, what problems they have, whenever they book us, what are the hurdles they have to go through? And however it can make it so easy for them to bring us in, that's part of my learning curve."During this episode, you'll hear about: 00:00 Jake's background and the road to speaking06:00 Jake's story of founding Vive18 08:54 How Jake met his co-founder12:53 What it means to create your own story14:08 The power in living your message 18:05 Why you have to invest in your own career 20:32 How to find your people in your industry 24:34 Tips to accelerate your business and learning from the get-go 28:16 How to create value for your customers 32:55 What it looks like to support your decision-makers “If you build the community, then your people are going to continue using you because you are the hub and where to go."Episode Resources:Connect with Jake on LinkedInCheck out Vive18's WebsiteFollow Vive18 on InstagramSubscribe to Vive18 on YoutubeConnect with Vive18 on FacebookFollow Vive18 on TikTokGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"Just show up and provide value and get to know us."If you're like most speakers, you're probably wondering about AI. How should you use it? Should you be using it at all? And how do you make sure your authentic brand and story doesn't get lost in the process? This week, Pat Flynn is answering all of those questions and ALSO diving into what it's like being an event planner. How do event planners look for speakers? How do they make final decisions? Check out the full conversation! "Short form video is like handing out Halloween candy, right? You have people coming to your house, you hand out candy, they move on to the next one. That's just people swiping, and when they move on to the next house, they kind of forgot about you already."Grant and Pat also talked about:03:22 What does your speaking business look like to date?08:05 How does the format of content change the way it's consumed?11:06 What kind of prompts get you the best results when you use AI?13:17 Why should someone consider using AI in their business?20:07 When did you get into hosting events and what did that first one look like?25:45 How do you think about finding speakers for an event?29:12 Why showing up the spaces you want to be in matters.31:26 Tips to get on event planners radars.34:43 From an event planner, what makes a great speaker?36:54 How do you build credibility with speakers before you make your selection. 40:20 Why it's important to maintain quality relationships with other speakers.44:10 Why the story you tell yourself matters, and how to change the narrative. "When I first started, there were gatekeepers, there were people like, what are you doing here? Why are you trying to do this? And, like, who are, who are you to even do this? And I just, you know, just kept going and kept, you know, hitting that hammer across the value wall, and eventually, it broke, and people saw what I was actually here for, which is amazing."Episode Resources:Visit Pat's WebsiteConnect with Pat on LinkedInSubscribe to Pat's YouTube ChannelGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“They used to be easy to spot, but they're getting better. They are getting more and more convincing at weaving their stories." This week, Grant sat down with Lauren Sergy to talk about a new (and very) convincing speaker scam and, more importantly, how to avoid falling for it! “No transactions are made, no contracts are signed. Unless you have a zoom, ideally a face to face Zoom call or a phone call. There must be a phone call. You have to make voice to voice contact."Ready to jump into this episode? Here's the layout: 00:00 What does Lauren speak on.04:13 When did Lauren start speaking?09:06 What does Lauren's business book like today?12:11 How did Lauren build her speaking business? 12:52 The mindset Lauren brings to fluctuating seasons.16:09 Let's get into this speaker scam… how did it come to your door? 20:31 Beware of weird or unconventional payment methods. 23:37 What has changed with modern-day scammers?25:49 How to logically think about gigs at the moment.30:56 Don't forget to trust your gut and ask others if they have experienced something similar! “If you are in doubt, get a hold of the venue and double check with them and then understand how your payments work. If you want to be really safe with your payments, you could say, I will only accept payment by credit card."Episode Resources:Visit Lauren's Website Connect with Lauren on LinkedInFollow Lauren on YoutubeGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"We always recommend that people do not memorize their presentations verbatim. That results in just acting a little bit too robotic. Your audience can tell, and that's just not the best way to go." - Eric SilverbergThis week, Grant sat down with Eli and Eric, some of our friends from Speaker Labs (not to be confused with The Speaker Lab). Eli and Eric help speakers master the four pillars of becoming a world class speaker — content, delivery, visuals, and mindset — so that they can become exceptional communicators."When you share your idea, even if it's a known idea in the world, but you share it your way through your stories, your experiences, your unique creative analogies and metaphors, and interesting ways to package that idea, the audience may not have heard it your way, and that allows you to feel confident, to show up and say, I may tell you something you already know, but I'm certainly going to tell it to you in a way that you haven't heard it before, because I'm telling it to you my unique way." - Eli GladstoneIn this episode we cover: 05:12 How Eli and Eric built this business06:21 What Speaker Labs does 10:28 The difference in good and great speakers 15:02 What makes a great presentation18:41 How to improve confidence as a speaker 21:53 Understanding the E's of engagement23:52 How to read the audience and develop a knack for making last minute tweaks 26:59 Let's talk about slides and visual aids28:51 How to think about slides + some tips and tricks 34:06 The importance of mindset in public speaking 38:05 How to confront and overcome fears39:11 Tips to overcome impostor syndrome as a speaker 42:32 The most important question to ask yourself about your message"Eli came up with an amazing analogy once that has to do with the GPS systems. You know, when you're in your car and you're using waze or Google Maps or whatever, and then there's a voice that speaks to you, and they tell you what to do. They tell you, in 400, you know, or in 4 miles, turn left, and in 3 miles, turn right. But here's what the GPS doesn't do. The GPS does not say, turn left, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight, turn right, go straight, go straight, go straight, go straight. That's way too much, right?" - Eric Silverberg "I try to get them to think about playing with the levels of altitude of that idea. You may not change your message, this is your message. But once you understand the most abstracted version of that idea, you now understand the language that could speak to the most people." - Eli Gladstone Episode Resources:Connect with the Speaker LabsFollow Speaker Labs on InstagramFollow Speaker Labs on LinkedInGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"There is so much value in saying no because not every event is the right event for you." This week, Brittany Richmond sat down with Nathan Wray, an inspirational speaker who speaks on teen mental health and substance misuse prevention. Together, Brittany and Nathan dig into dozens of practical topics including recovering from rough feedback, showing up for and supporting event planners, finding direction in your career as a speaker, and more!"So I'm going to go as far as I can go to help an event organizer to make sure that they're successful. And if that includes setting up 300 chairs at 01:00 in the morning, then I'm gonna do it."In this episode, Brittany and Nathan get into: 04:49 Who does Nathan serve and what's his message? 08:00 How do you take feedback on your message and build something better?10:58 Nathan's turning point for storytelling.15:41 The importance of community in the speaking world. 16:58 Why you should say no to some events20:05 What to focus on as a speaker?24:32 Why your superpower matters and will shape the way you show up.26:59 The importance of pre-event meetings.30:20 Why making the whole event a success matters.35:09 How to support decision makers and event planners. 37:01 Why showing support and value changes things. 42:53 What the speaking community is like. 44:10 How the audience impacts us as speakers. 49:52 Where to find Nathan and our hope for every aspiring speaker out there! “I reshaped the whole thing, and then I went and delivered it at a school, and it was the first time that kids came up to me afterwards and were like, can I take a picture with you? Can I tell you what happened to me? Can I tell you my story? Can I ask you a question? And that's when I knew, like, okay, I don't have it where I want it, but I'm on the right path."Episode Resources: Connect with Nathan on FacebookConnect with Nathan on LinkedInFollow Nathan on TikTokGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“I feel like I've always been Reggie's administrative assistant with our life. So it was kind of a natural transition just to slide into that.” - Patrice Wright This week, Grant sat down with not 1, but 2 lovely guests to chat about building a speaking business with your spouse! You may remember Dr. Reggie Wright from Episode 471 last fall, but this week, we're hearing from him AND his better half, Patrice.“My first year as a full time speaker, I wanted her to resign. I wanted her to retire the first year and come on board as my COO. And that was a little bit of some tension there, because she wanted to kind of wait and see how things would play out, and that kind of put some stress and strain on things." - Reggie Wright Grant, Reggie, and Patrice get into: 00:00 Where does the story of Reggie and Patrice start?04:31 What's your history of supporting each other in your marriage?06:24 When did you start using help to scale your business?10:56 What point made sense to put more time and energy into the speaking side of things?14:59 Where was the tension in the decision of Patrice still holding down a full-time job?16:36 How did Patrice know it was time to make the jump?20:57 What habits/thought patterns/routines do you instill to focus on your family and marriage first?24:37 What are some examples of setting boundaries around your time?27:01 How do you balance work and rest and each other's work ethics?31:10 Reggie's reflection on the growth process to build a business like he has34:15 What should you think about before picking a support system?“I would not be half of what I am right now if it wasn't for my wife." - Reggie Wright "Knowing my own worth and value and knowing what I bring to the table helps me to never feel less than or never feel like, you know, he's up here and I'm down here. We're on an equal playing field." - Patrice WrightEpisode Resources: Connect with ReggieGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"If you can align your expertise with a specific industry and then really bring tremendous value with a clear ROI, you're always going to win the game."This week, Grant's on the show with TSL legend Erick Rheam. We're a little late to this year's state of the speaking industry, but better late than never, right?"It's not necessarily that budgets are cut, but what I would tell you is that event planners, they tend to be intentional with the money that they're spending. Instead of saying "I've got a $100,000 budget for this event," it's "Yeah, I've got $100,000, but I need to see a return on that $100,000."In this episode, Grant and Erick get into:00:00 Current trends in the speaking industry06:06 Why do relationships matter more now than ever before?07:32 How do you focus on building relationships?11:20 The importance of offering a virtual service as part of your speaking business15:51 The key to growth right now, even in a tough economy 19:44 Why you should focus on relationships and providing long-term solutions for your clients21:50 How to leverage industry expertise to prove ROI26:35 What it looks like to tweak your message to withstand the test of time.28:00 The importance of iterating and meeting your client's needs.31:11 How to balance other streams of income + being on stage35:28 How to get comfortable creating value for clients36:44 Reflections and wrap up"Something that is not attractive is desperation. And you could tell it, you could smell it from speakers — when they're just trying to get the gig, they're trying to get the money, as opposed to speakers who are like "Hey, I want to add value and I'm willing to go on a long term type of commitment with you."Episode Resources: Get Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"The hardest part is just getting started, actually, because a lot of people say, well, yeah, I've got to make it perfect. I've got to do all these slides and presentations, curriculum, all this documentation. The best thing to do is just get started."This week, Grant sat down with Michael Patellis, the cofounder of Copecart, to talk about developing a course as a speaker.“A lot of people, they require that discipline of being able to follow a script and follow a syllabus of, okay, I have to do this thing this week, next week, etc. And then there's others that their courses are almost independent study. So a lot of it depends on the market segment that you're in and how detailed your course is and what the skill set is.”This week, Grant and Michael get into:00:00 Why should speakers consider courses as part of their business?05:19 How to think about ROI on your course?08:29 What kind of structure should you put for your course? 10:40 What do you recommend in terms of how your course is laid out? 16:00 How do people usually market a course?19:05 What other marketing opportunities are there?20:12 What kind of payout are creators looking at? 24:51 What leads to a successful course?Episode Resources: Connect with MichaelCheck out CopecartGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"People buy from you when they feel understood, not when they understand you."This week, Grant's sitting down with TSL alumna Missy West to talk about her unlikely journey to public speaking and how her speaking career has taken off over the last few years.If you're wondering if you can overcome your fear of being on stage and be successful as a brand new speaker, this episode is for you! “I made six figures in my first full year of speaking”In this episode, Grant and Missy get into: 03:18 How Missy overcame fear and seized opportunities through resilience.06:20 Why encouragement matters as you chase goals.12:01 Missy didn't want to become a speaker, here's why13:54 How to overcome self-doubt and criticism18:18 Why you need a resilience team19:54 What a resilience team does22:25 What happened once you started speaking27:35 How did you transition from hobby to potential career30:09 What came next in terms of pursuing this as a career34:13 What do you think is the difference between successful and unsuccessful speakers36:58 What's a great example of networking as a speaker40:05 How do you invest in relationships to grow your business"My resilience team reminded me, no, this is just a different stage. And everything that you've accomplished happened because you leaned into those tough moments when you were scared and you showed up anyway."Episode Resources:Missy's WebsiteMissy's LinkedInOrca LeadershipGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“Reframing my approach to public speaking was a game-changer once I recognized I was my own worst critic.”This week, Maryalice sat down with TSL coach Katherine Johnson to chat about all things authenticity on stage. If you think you're being authentic on stage, this may be the wake-up call you didn't know you needed! When it comes to presenting ourselves to an audience, we tend to think about the logistics, what we're wearing, what we're saying, etc., but we can forget about the intention and the science behind building trust and credibility with our audience. "If you think you have to prove you are, you're making it all about yourself, and that cuts connection. Like, if I could just say that you can feel that in your body, you have to find some ways to shift to connection."In this episode, Maryalice and Katherine get into: 03:50 Why actually connecting with the audience matters more than the words you say 08:49 Why aiming for connection will change the success you experience 12:19 How to set yourself up for success on the stage.15:34 What are a few ways we can improve connection and authenticity on stage?16:39 How does nervousness get in the way of our message?20:06 The impact of energy in our pre-stage routine. 25:43 How to overcome fear of criticism during talks.27:07 What it looks like to get comfortable with the fear and anxiety you might feel.33:14 How do you remove armor and promote connection?“Connection matters more than anything because you can actually say something. You could be a mediocre speaker. You could be an up-and-coming speaker. You can be pretty green. But if you know how to focus on connection with your audience, you're gonna do something special. You can continue to get better in terms of your content and some of your stagecraft, but if you know how to create that connection and be authentic from the stage, that does something powerful.”Episode Resources:Get Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“In some ways, my story is a detriment. There's a pro and a con to having overcoming extreme adversity, because people feel disconnected from it. I've had people tell me multiple times after speeches, man, if I went through what you went through, I'd be as happy as you are. And I'm like, no, man, you're missing the point. The principles I just taught you are what you need to pay attention to.”Grant's sitting down with the creator of The Miracle Morning, Hal Elrod to talk about how he got into speaking, if and when you need a book to complement your speaking efforts, and how to know if you're living into your true passions. “During that time, I was really thoughtful and strategic of, like, what do I want this book to do? And one thing I wanted it to do was to get me corporate speaking gigs. I wanted to raise my fee."In this episode, Grant and Hal get into: 00:00 Hal's early experiences with overcoming hardships.05:33 Facing doubt early on as a speaker.07:06 Do you have to have a massive overcoming story to make an impact?11:31 How reframing challenges led to public speaking. 14:38 Hal's experience finding his early gigs and getting booked as a speaker. 17:08 What it's like to get your first paid gig. 20:35 When should you start flying first class?24:23 Do you need a book to launch your speaking career?26:55 How do you get started and build momentum?30:52 When did you know it was time to transition to the next thing? 33:01 How does a speaker know they have what it takes? "I got $500, which was my first ever paid gig. I was on top of the world, and it went really, really well. They loved it. And so I was able to share my story, my cutco experience, and then the lessons drawn from both of those, and then that just gave me some confidence, like, oh, wow, I can speak to a corporate audience."Not sure if you'll like this episode? Well, Hal's got great advice on achieving our goals, too. ⬇️"If you have multiple goals, which a lot of us do, then what ends up happening is you just make a dent in each one, and you rarely accomplish any single one of them because you're always scattering your time."Episode Resources: HalElrod.comMiracleMorning.comConnect with Hal on FacebookGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"The biggest mistake that I repeatedly see speakers make is procrastination, just waiting too long to actually start developing the content and too long to practice the delivery."This week, Grant sat down with Eva Daniel to talk about one of the most important parts of being an effective speaker — creating and delivering an engaging speech. Eva is a speaker, storytelling expert, and communications professional, and the founder of the Speak Shop, where she helps speakers produce better content. "I believe that every speech is alive in breathing and a work in progress. And so we're just always making sure that, like, is it in the best order? And do I enjoy giving it the way that it is? And is the audience responding well to it in the way that I would envision them to be responding?"This episode covers:00:00 Eva's Background04:40 How to adapt speeches and how do you know one is polished and done?06:24 What does it look like to iterate on your content? 11:46 How do you create a successful delivery of your speech?14:06 What kind of goals are you setting for your content?18:52 How to ensure you're content is great, what should you start with?20:06 What is good practice when it comes to prepping for a keynote?25:19 How do you nail your timing? 27:23 What role should visuals have in your talk?31:12 How do you leveraging the room to ensure your talk is still well received? 33:22 What does it look like to be prepared for all occasions? 36:53 How do you become a great speaker? 39:43 Eva's contact info and resources"My biggest piece of advice though is your goal is to internalize your content for the big ideas, not to memorize it."Check out Eva's episode now! "Not all practice is created equal. Giving your content to your bathroom mirror on, you know, the Wednesday before the Thursday you speak is not going to be as effective as if the Friday before you'd run it through a group of three to five people."Episode Resources:The Speak ShopConnect with Eva on LinkedInGet Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We're so excited to announce the launch of our new podcast, Talk Speaker To Me! Talk Speaker to Me will bring you 10-15 minute episodes every Thursday filled to the brim with super practical, actionable advice. If this sounds like what you're looking for, search for Talk Speaker To Me on Apple, Spotify, and subscribe for weekly updates!P.S. Have no fear, The Speaker Lab Podcast isn't going anywhere. This is just a new way to bring you more content to help you book more gigs and grow your speaking business. --Welcome to our first episode of Talk Speaker To Me! In this episode, TSL facilitator and Speaker Erick Rheam walks you through exactly what his daily power hour looks like to build a long-term sustainable speaking business."I didn't have anything but a dream and a desire to be a speaker. I just went out and started prospecting on a consistent basis, and I made over $36,000 with no assets whatsoever."Erick's covering: What is a prospectHow often should your prospectWhat does a "power hour" look likeHow should you set up your tech stackWhat is the ideal amount of time between emails, and when should you just let it go"The key, though, is if I do this every day on a consistent basis, then it's like a machine, it's a methodology, and it starts to bear fruit if I do it on a consistent basis."Ready to learn a thing or two about managing your pipeline? Let's go!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

"I remember you kind of making this decision to turn The Speaker Lab into what it is today. You wanted to scale it, you wanted to grow it, make a bigger impact on people, and you really did, man." - Shane SamsToday we're celebrating a massive milestone on The Speaker Lab Podcast, so, here's the deal! We invited Grant's good friend Shane Sams to interview Grant about his speaking journey, how The Speaker Lab came into existence, and what it's been like to podcast for oh, you know, almost a decade.As we celebrate this episode, we want to thank each and every one of you who have subscribed, listened to the show, and shared it with others over the years. We couldn't have published 500 episodes without your support. We're not going anywhere, either — stayed tuned for more exciting news ahead! In this conversation, you'll get a peek behind the scenes as they discuss:00:00 What was your dream for this podcast when you started it? 05:36 Grant's intro to podcasting and the start of the Speaker Lab dream.08:49 “But how do you actually book a gig?” 10:56 How Grant evaluated and then iterated his first course.13:34 Grant's shift from speaker to teacher, to coach. 17:05 The early and long-standing speaking connections Grant made. 19:44 Grant reflects on the ripple effects of the impact speaking makes for people.23:55 How Grant transitioned from church work to Speaker Lab.28:04 The importance of creating deep relationships to grow your speaking career.31:41 Grant's take on being genuine, helpful, and intentional when networking. 34:37 Shane's personal experience with Grant's above-average care for the people in his network. 36:32 A real story of learning from others and building great relationships that lead to growth.Episode Resources:Get Free Speaker ResourcesBook a Call with The Speaker LabCalculate Your Speaking FeeJoin The Speaker Lab Community on FacebookSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.