Unforgettable Presentations

An unforgettable presentation requires an unforgettable process. Today Mark and Darren begin breaking down their 7-Step speech process, laid out in their book DELIVER UNFORGETTABLE PRESENTATIONS. This episode covers STEP #1: FINDING YOUR CONTENT, and STEP #2: CLARITY, CLARITY, CLARITY!   SNIPPETS:   • You need an unforgettable process   • It's your responsibility to give your audience next steps   • FIND CONTENT from your own life and experience   • Don't undervalue your expertise   • Start with what you know   • Build your story folder   • Be clear about your premise   • Give information in context   • Don't give your audience a reason to take a mental detour   • Don't leave unanswered questions in your audience's minds Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

In Part 2 of their conversation about the Top Ten Mistakes, Darren and Mark talk with Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis about mistakes #5 through #1 in the countdown.    SNIPPETS:   • Identify the guide/guru/compass, which may not be a human   • The hero should not solve their own problem   • It isn't just about what changed, but about how the character grew   • Give your audience time and room to reflect on the character's development   • Give the hero a time limit to reach their goal   • Create and escalate conflict   • Be clear about the hero's goal; not what, but why   • Specificity and clarity are key   • Engage the audience immediately   • Don't open with trivialities like the weather or how nice it is to be there   1. Weak or Wandering Openings Why it matters: If you don't hook the audience in the first 15 seconds, you risk losing them entirely. Many speakers start with platitudes or overused statements instead of tension, emotion, or curiosity.
 ✅ Fix: Begin with a vivid image, jarring question, or a clear inciting incident. (Craig Valentine: “When they're predicting, you're connecting.”)   2. The Main Character Lacks a Clear Goal or Stakes Why it matters: Without a specific goal and consequence, the story feels directionless and unmotivated. The audience won't care what happens next. 
✅ Fix: Use the ABS AND section to define the character's goal, traits, and motivation.   3. Stories Skip the Struggle Why it matters: Too many stories jump from the problem to the resolution. They miss the BUT—the emotional depth, obstacles, and low point that make the payoff matter.
 ✅ Fix: Amplify conflict. Show the tension before the turn. That's where connection lives.   4. Resolution Without Reflection Why it matters: The SO isn't just about what changed—it's about how the character grew, and what we can take away. When this is rushed or vague, the audience misses the lesson.
 ✅ Fix: Let the character experience change and articulate new insight. Use dialogue, emotion, and detail.   5. The Guide Isn't Clear (or is the same person as the hero) Why it matters: Without a separate Guide figure, the story sounds like self-congratulation. That breaks trust. 
✅ Fix: Show who offered perspective, wisdom, or a framework that shifted the main character's path.   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

Over the years Darren and Mark have made…and seen…several mistakes. Today they're joined by Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis as they discuss the mistakes they see most often…even after 30+ years of coaching. This episode feature mistakes #10 through #6 in the countdown. Avoiding these will help you to be unforgettable on the platform.   SNIPPETS:   • Avoid ending on Q & A or with a ‘THANK YOU' slide   • Circle back to your opening and end with impact   • Can your audience see themselves in your story   • Do research and homework to relate more closely with your audience   • Use present tense and phrases like “let me take you back…”   • End with punchy, concrete words   • Show the consequences of actions NOT taken   • Be clear on what is at stake   • Avoid continuous narration   • Use dialogue, body language and facial expression for depiction   6. Too Much “Tell,” Not Enough “Show” Why it matters: Narrating facts and feelings doesn't activate the audience's imagination. The brain craves visuals, dialogue, and motion.
 ✅ Fix: Include short bursts of scene-based storytelling. Show reactions. Use dialogue. Let us see and feel it.   7. Unclear If-Then Stakes Why it matters: Without an IF-THEN, there's no urgency. No reason to act. No consequence for staying the same. 
✅ Fix: Highlight the risk: “If I stayed silent, we would have lost the client. If I spoke up, I might get fired.”   8. Repetitive Sentence Structures or Passive Voice Why it matters: Flat rhythms, present participles, or soft endings weaken emotional impact and energy. 
✅ Fix: Use nouns and verbs up front. End sentences with punchy, concrete words. Vary rhythm.   9. No Audience Relevance or Personalization Why it matters: Some stories sound good but don't connect. If the audience can't see themselves in it, they tune out.
 ✅ Fix: Ask the reflective question during the story: “Have you ever felt like that?” or “What would you have done in that moment?”   10. Ending With a Fizzle, Not a Frame Why it matters: If the ending feels rushed, abstract, or purely emotional, the story won't stick. 
✅ Fix: Reframe the opening or image in a new way. Bring the story full circle. Land with clarity and resonance.   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

At some point in your speaking career, you will have to travel…sometimes overseas…and it's important to be prepared. Proper preparation includes getting ready for your presentation, and more. Darren and Mark break down their preparation process and provide tools to help any speaker prepare for their unforgettable presentation.    SNIPPETS:   • Prepare tech tools for your presentation   • Prepare to be present   • Create a TRAVEL CHECKLIST   • Bring travel adapters/chargers   • Pack for at least one extra day   • Keep a travel event folder with contact info, travel and event itinerary, etc.   • Make copies of your passport   • Learn about your audience, get an attendee list, connect on LinkedIn   • Make sure you have the correct visa for specific international locations   • Secure a Letter of Invitation if required for international events   • Use gift cards and your books as gifts for the tech team, drivers, event staff   • Do venue walkthrough post-event to ensure you have chargers, cables, drives   • Prepare your unforgettable presentation   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com  

Perhaps you've seen a poor introduction, or a well-written one poorly delivered. In this episode, Mark and Darren give insight into the power of a video introduction and share two examples to show how a good video introduction can help you to be unforgettable.    SNIPPETS: • A good video intro connects your audience to you   • It connects your audience to your subject   • Keep the content simple   • Include still photos   • It tells a story in itself   • It's a teaser to create curiosity   • Include royalty-free music   • If using text, limit the text to one line per slide   • Each line of text can be a cliffhanger   • Be creative   • You can't edit what you don't create   • Use resources like 99Designs, Fiverr and Upwork   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

LinkedIn has become the business ‘go-to' platform, but many users haven't been using it properly. Today, Mark and Darren talk with LinkedIn expert Richard Bliss about the mistakes and best practices for maximizing LinkedIn to accelerate your business.    SNIPPETS:   • LinkedIn is a business platform   • Don't use LinkedIn like social media platforms   • Social media activities are counterproductive on LinkedIn   • Emojis can interfere with the intent of your content   • Emojis have different meanings to different demographics   • Leave insightful comments on people's posts, not just ‘likes'   • 3X5 Rule: Comment 3X daily, for 5 days each week   • Apply the Human Algorithm, investing in relationships before connecting   • Write posts of 120 words or fewer, spacing every 3 lines   • In your ABOUT profile, be INTERESTED before being INTERESTING   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

Webster's Dictionary defines The 11th Hour as “the latest possible time before it's too late.” Today Darren and Mark give examples of 11th hour speaking situations and offer advice on how to be unforgettable by performing professionally at the 11th hour.   SNIPPETS:   • We are paid to make 11th hour decisions   • True professionals perform at the 11th hour   • Be aware that meeting planners often face 11th hour challenges   • Build relationships by serving others in their 11th hour   • Be aware that people around you may be in their 11th hour   • Be the meeting planner's favorite   • Be prepared for 11th hour situations   • Make yourself available for 11th hour assignments   • Be the 11th hour presenter   • Learn all you can about events, so you don't miss 11th hour opportunities   • Don't wait for 11th hour coaching   • Think of ways to improve on what landed     Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

When reviewing their speech recordings, speakers often look for what DIDN'T go well. Today, Mark and Darren invite you to focus on the positive, and to look first for what LANDED. This will help you to identify your strengths, and approach areas for improvement with a positive mindset.    SNIPPETS:   • Find the magic moments   • Determine what worked   • Identify the times you connected   • Gauge audience reaction   • We can't see our best while we are on the stage   • Look for times when you say something differently in the moment   • Dissect the presentation   • Notice where microexpressions make a difference   • Your tone of voice and facial expressions can be impactful   • Examine characters and decide: ‘remove or remain?'   • Think of ways to improve on what landed   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

  Have you considered re-writing one of your previous stories? In today's episode, Darren and Mark encourage you to examine your previous presentations with the goal of improving, enhancing, and re-writing. A re-write can elevate your content, enhance your performance, and most importantly amplify your impact.    SNIPPETS: • Great speeches aren't written; they're re-written   • Revisit previous presentations   • Watch videos of your speeches   • Review with a critical eye   • Identify what you did well, and areas for improvement   • Make review and re-write part of your routine   • Put ‘WORLD CLASS TIME' on your calendar   • Start with one area…a story/idea/slide deck/segment   • Choose when to replace narration with dialog   • Examine characters and decide: ‘remove or remain?'   • Seek ways to enhance the audience's experience     Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

How do you find a balance between narration and dialog? NARRA-LOG! Like one of Mark and Darren's clients, you may think, “That sounds like a NARROW LOG!” Today our co-hosts talk about bridging the gap between too much narration/not enough dialog…and vice versa…using that ‘narrow log.' They give guidance on using both techniques effectively to build your unforgettable presentation.   SNIPPETS:   • Find the right balance between narration and dialog   • Look for key emotional shifts in your story   • You may need to reel in the dialog   • Avoid creating a soliloquy   • Don't create a stage play • Decide when narration serves best   • Choose two or three ‘dialog moments'   • In dialog, more than one character must speak or react   • Use dialog to increase conflict, show a revelation, and reveal the aftermath   • Reactions tell the story   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com  

Darren and Mark encourage their clients to review their scripts and ask, “How can I say this better with fewer words?” Today they discuss how having a better mindset can transform your presentation, improve your business, and make you unforgettable.    SNIPPETS:   • Ask: What can I make, say, or do better?   • Re-evaluate your presentations, programs, and processes   • Revisit your digital footprint   • Cut superfluous content   • Consider the audience's mindset • Do a debrief   • Random comments can provide better options   • Find better marketing strategies   • Give your audience a better experience   • Build better relationships with clients and meeting planners   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

At some point, you may feel stuck in your business, doing the same thing over and over, without any measurable progress. Today Mark and Darren have an off-the-cuff discussion about ways to get breakthroughs on your path to becoming unforgettable.    SNIPPETS:   • Reach your ‘enough is enough' point   • Revisit your habits   • Adopt a new perspective   • Seek qualified help   • Find a mentor • Be humble and sincere   • Be a sponge   • Join a mastermind   • Say ‘Yes' when a pro offers to help   • Apply their advice   • Breakthroughs come from growth Join us for Game Changers: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/workshops/game-changers-2025/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

We all want to get booked but we often lack the skills and knowledge to land the gig…on the best terms. Speaker bureau executive Jennifer Lier sits down with Darren and Mark to reveal the obstacles that keep you from getting booked, and the ‘must haves' that will get you gigs and make you unforgettable.    SNIPPETS:   • YOU are your company, brand, and product   • It's hard for you to negotiate your own gigs   • Let your bureau be your advocate   • Bureaus will not seek you out   • Bureaus look for speakers delivering at 25-30 events annually   • Most bureaus look for speakers earning $7,500+ per speech   • Bureaus speakers with fees under $10K   • Treat the bureau as your partner   • Have non-branded marketing materials ready   • Have TWO shareable demo videos: 3-5 minutes and 30 minutes   • Have a website that aligns with your brand   • Bring the bureau a gig   • Give the bureau a reason to work with you     Check out Game Changers: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/workshops/game-changers-2025/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

To get more business, your prospects need to know you exist. Today, Mark and Darren talk with Hall-Of-Fame speaker and million-dollar business growth innovator Ford Saeks Ford offers practical, business building wisdom to help you get found, get seen, and get business.    SNIPPETS:   • Be great on stage   • Master your craft   • Google yourself to see what your prospects see   • Have a solid digital footprint   • Use LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok   • Content is a commodity   • Don't tie your identity to a delivery method   • Lead with benefits   • Help your audience to DISCOVER, UNCOVER and REVEAL   • It's not about selling; it's about serving   • Treat AI like an expert, monitor it as an intern Discount Code: Ford20   Check Out Game Changers: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/workshops/game-changers-2025/

Your headshot is a critical component in your marketing material. So how do you look your best, and BE your best on camera? Darren and Mark get answers from Las Vegas-based celebrity photographer Jerry Metellus as they talk about the how and why of an unforgettable profile photo.   SNIPPETS: • Amplify what already is   • Don't be trapped in an image of what you think you should be   • Remember who you are   • Don't become fake in front of the lens   • Maintain a positive demeanor   • When sitting for a photo, find the joy   • Your photo tells a story   • Your photo can be your ambassador   • Show up STRONG in your photo   • Let your brand show through you   • Interview potential photographers to make sure you are a good fit   Join us for Game Changers! https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/workshops/game-changers-2025/  

A media interview is a wonderful opportunity to showcase your expertise and serve a broader audience. How can you get the opportunity, and what should you do to maximize that opportunity? In today's episode, Mark and Darren talk with speaker, author and coach Pilar Ortiz, former TV reporter, news anchor, producer and director. Pilar gives sage advice for handling media interviews, staying top of mind with the media.      SNIPPETS:   • Say ‘yes' to the opportunity   • Prepare bullet points and practice out loud   • Be succinct and give short answers in soundbites   • Just answer the question and make it easy for the audience to   • Select THREE key nuggets   • Create a story for your interviewer   • Show the producer how your expertise and serve their audience   • Make your topic newsworthy   • Make yourself a resource by referring other experts   • Build relationships with media personnel   • Watch interviewers and familiarize yourself with their style   • Wear clothes that fit well Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

Your voice is your instrument, so how do you keep it in top shape? Today, Darren and Mark sit down with Millian Quinteros, a voiceover artist, audio producer, podcast consultant, and voice care/maintenance coach. Using his own story of struggling with vocal issues, Millian explains some common voice-care mistakes, and offers practical advice to help you keep your instrument well-tuned.      SNIPPETS:   • The voice is the symphony of the heart   • Your voice tells people who you are   • Treat your voice like a professional   • Use vocal warm-ups and cool-downs   • Avoid alcohol and caffeine.   • If you partake, drink room temperature water at a 1:1 ratio   • Adopt proper posture when speaking   • Hum gently first thing in the morning   • Use diaphragmatic breathing in a steamy shower   • Hydration is key, with ROOM TEMPERATURE water   • When travelling, arrive at your destination a day early to acclimate   • Voice rest for a few hors can be very helpful     Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

Mark says, “One man's mundane is another man's magnificent.” We sometimes fail to see the magnificence in our stories because we're too close to them. Today Darren and Mark explain why we may be too close, and suggest ways to broaden our perspective      SNIPPETS: • Start with a big block of clay   • We can be so close that we can't identify the magnificent in our story   • Video-record yourself telling your story   • Present to a test audience   • Look at your story from the audience's perspective   • Learn what your audience is thinking   • We can be too close to our favorite and signature stories   • Work with a qualified coach   • We can be so close that we miss ‘blind spots'   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

What can be the motivation to go ‘all in' as you prepare to deliver your next presentation? Mark and Darren look at the motivation for preparation and explain the value of a presentation walkthrough…with a live audience.   SNIPPETS: • When hour ego is at stake, you put in more work   • Put your rehearsal on the calendar, preferably 2 weeks out   • Work with a coach   • Walkthrough with your peer group as your audience   • Rehearse as if it's game day   • Record yourself   • Walkthrough with those who have been there before you   • Listen for ‘cringe moments; if I cringe, I must correct   • The walkthrough forces you to go all in   • Engage in preparation motivation for your next presentation   Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

What is a ‘back pocket speech?' When do you need it? How do you use it? All good questions! Darren and Mark provide answers…and ideas for making your ‘back pocket speech' unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • It's not if…but when you have to fill in for another speaker   • Be prepared   • Make the meeting planner look good, and build your reputation   • Make it a habit at a conference to offer to speak if a speaker doesn't show up   • Ask yourself, “What more can I provide?”   • Create awareness. If they aren't aware of you, they can't hire you   • Don't get ready; stay ready (Craig Valentine)   • Keep a file of potential back-pocket presentations   • You have more material than you know   • Be natural Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

Sometimes speeches sound…well…speechy! Darren and Mark challenge you to examine your content and offer advice for ensuring that your authenticity shines through in every presentation.   SNIPPETS: • Be conversational   • Create a transcription   • Use tools like Microsoft Word's DICTATE feature   • You can't edit what you don't write down   • Write for the eye, not for the eye   • Bullet-point your ideas   • Use keywords   • Avoid ‘cop-speak'   • Don't over-complicate   • Be natural

Our senses can play a significant part in giving our audience an unforgettable experience. Today, Mark and Darren talk about the power of the sense of smell and share how you can use it effectively in your stories.   SNIPPETS: • Use V.A.K.S.   • Use smell as you relive your experiences   • Smell can create a visceral audience response   • Use smell to transport yourself to the scene first   • Then use smell to transport your audience to the scene   • Physically show your response to an odor, scent, or aroma   • Let your face and body reflect your emotional response   • Let the audience ‘sense' the scene   • Let the moment linger; give the audience time to feel it   • Use the contrast between the expectation from a smell, and the reality                                             • Don't overdo it                                                                                                          

Delivering presentations every week is challenging…no doubt about it. Delivering to the same audience every week magnifies that challenge. How can you be unforgettable in those circumstances? Today Lee Coate provides Mark and Darren with the techniques that help him to consistently communicate unforgettably.   SNIPPETS: • Communication is more than structure and what's on the page   • Develop your own voice and style   • Communication is a by-product of an individual's character   • Don't be an actor   • Don't perform…INSPIRE   • Avoid ‘speaking down' to your audience; speak eye-to-eye with them   • Audiences appreciate it when you delf-depreciate   • Avoid using technology as a crutch   • Let technology accompany, not distract   • Beware of going overboard with props   • Be aware of what resonates with your audience                                             • Identify speaker whose style matches yours and learn from them     Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/   Check Out Stage Time University: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com

Your audience wants to know that you ‘get' them. Today Mark and Darren examine ways to connect with your audience, identify their challenges, and help solve their problems.   SNIPPETS: • Audiences appreciate your genuine interest in them   • Ask different individuals in your client's organization   • Look for challenges, frustrations, and pet peeves   • Identify common concerns   • Bridge the gap between your content and their world   • If possible, attend events a day early and be observant   • Before your presentation, have hallway conversations with attendees   • Find out if they have solutions   • Name-drop; tell the story of your hallway conversation   • For connection, use photos with attendees in your presentation                                             • Encourage attendees to collaborate and share best practices Work with Mark and Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/get-a-speaking-coach/

Can you ‘up your game' in 2025 make it your best year yet? Darren and Mark offer solid suggestions for upgrading your program, your presentation, and your presence in the marketplace. Applying these principles and practices will put you firmly on the path to being unforgettable...and making this YOUR BEST YEAR YET!   SNIPPETS: • It's YOUR RESPONSIBILITY   • Assess your presentation and your business with the goal to improve   • Consider upgrading your speech title   • Revisit your content (open/close, structure, humor, delivery, stories)   • Review your video/audio recordings; what can you enhance?   • Upgrade your introduction, perhaps start using a video   • Rebrand if necessary   • Start or re-launch a newsletter   • Be intentional about social media presence; pick a platform                                             • Attend GAME CHANGERS conference at Stage Time University   • Collaborate with others   • Collaborate with a Mastermind, get a coach, attend industry conferences  

What does it take to deliver an extremely sensitive and emotional story, and why would you do it in the first place?   Darren and Mark get answers from ‘serial entrepreneur' CEO Smoke Wallin as he explains why he shared his sensitive story to 2,000 CEOs. His answers will provide guidance and wisdom for anyone who is ready to tell their unforgettable sensitive story.   SNIPPETS: • Share your story to help others   • Think it through and compose your talk with sensitivity to your audience   • Don't shock your audience   • Be very clear on your purpose and intent   • Only share after you feel called to share    • Share when you are ready   • Telling your story can unlock the container that chains your life   • Define and refine the message   • Your story is a gift; give it freely   • Share for the right reasons                                             • Decouple your identity enough to have detachment from the pain   Check out his speech: https://youtu.be/jhz3q-baDuA?si=jiC8EmokkTJY2X_U

Confidence. Every presenter needs it, especially when facing an unresponsive audience or dealing with the unexpected.   In today's episode, Mark and Darren provide strategies for building your confidence and delivering your unforgettable presentation.   SNIPPETS: • Confidence is critical   • Not every audience responds emotionally and supportively   • Confidence doesn't come by accident   • Prepare well   • Internalize your content   • Test your material in a low-risk environment like Toastmasters   • Ego is a confidence-killer   • Draw confidence from your TOP 5   • Build your confidence by listening to your best work regularly                                             • Collect testimonial texts, e-mails and videos   • Inspire your audiences, clients and prospects to have confidence in you  

Your audience can hear your story, but can they SEE it? Today Mark and Darren explore ways that you can prompt your audience to go beyond just hearing your story, to experiencing it...right at the beginning. These simple techniques will help your audience to see your unforgettable story.   SNIPPETS: • Telling your story is like creating a painting   • Share 2 or 3 details about the setting   • Let the audience paint the picture   • Let the audience see one visual and one emotional character detail   • Non-verbal depictions can paint a clear picture   • Dialog can be very descriptive   • Descriptions of characteristics and clothing are highly effective   • Your entire audience need not see the SAME thing; they must see SOMEthing   • Test your story by creating an audience (NSA, Toastmasters, Mastermind etc.)                                             • Ask them what they saw and respond to feedback   • Be creative and compelling

Maybe you're an emerging speaker, and you don't think you have enough content. Perhaps you're experienced and have been delivering the same material for a long time. Where do you find more content? Darren and Mark provide strategies for finding new content, ‘upping' your game, and being unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • Ask: Is there better content available   • Perform deeper research on your subject   • Dive deeply into client concerns   • Interview clients for content and connection   • Tap into your expertise network   • Understand that you don't know everything about your topic   • Be willing to upgrade your existing material   • Find out what and who are trending in your area of expertise   • Verify all new content using multiple sources                                             • Revisit the ‘basement' and ‘archives' of your life   • Test new material and listen to your audience to find out what resonates   • Challenge yourself to provide something new every year

Illustrations can be powerful; they give your audience a memorable experience. How do you create and execute an experience that has 4,000 people on their feet, actively participating, and leaving transformed? Brian Biro, America's Breakthrough Speaker, sits down with Mark and Darren to provide insight into how has been able to deliver unforgettable experiences for more than 30 years.   SNIPPETS: • Help audiences to experience breakthroughs   • Become a master storyteller   • Shift from ego to ‘we go'   • Do more for other than you do for yourself   • When you enrich your audience's experience, you enrich your own   • Don't decide someone else's breakthrough potential   • Release your authentic energy   • 95% of your breakthrough depends on where you place your focus   • BE confident…and humble                                             • Never underestimate the power of simplicity   • Let every illustration have value and meaning   • SEE BRIAN IN ACTION: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RK2uZftQUpg

In our zeal to share our knowledge with our audience, we sometimes offer too much content. Mark and Darren discuss this phenomenon and offer both perspective and practices for giving your audience your most appropriate content.   SNIPPETS: • Vast content is a blessing   • You can't share everything  you know in one presentation   • To share everything, write a book   • Give the highlights   • What's the intent of the event   • What does the audience need to know   • Decide which details to share   • Be willing to let some material go   • If you squeeze too much content in, you squeeze your audience out                                             • Serve the needs of each specific audience   • Use a single-elimination tournament format to ‘eliminate' content

Presentations can often be boring. Why? In this episode, Darren and Mark examine three reasons and provide solutions to help any presenter move from boring to unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • You need a proven world-class structure   • Structure gives you confidence and gives your audience clarity   • Invest time to properly structure your presentation   • Solid structure prevents you from taking a labyrinthine journey   • Stories are the heartbeat of presentations   • Bullet-point your life   • Stories elicit emotion to deliver a message   • Structure your stories for maximum impact                                             • Get qualified feedback   • Set ego and laziness aside   • Seek education, not confirmation and validation

Growth and success in speaking requires a steadfast mindset. Today, millionaire investor, event planner and professional speaker Ryan Pineda sits down with Mark and Darren to divulge how the right mindset and the right actions can put any presenter on the path to being unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • Know the type of speaker that you are   • Understand your value; don't underestimate it   • Repetition, practice, and stage time build confidence   • Determine how much can you relate to your audience   • Start by making short videos   • Be creative and spontaneous   • Start on small stages   • Have an “I want to WIN!” mindset                                             • Speaking need not be a zero-sum game   • Go through a season of preparation Ryan's Wealthy Kingdom Sermon: https://youtu.be/__Nqs-mGqus?si=pAJX7HwXQEjjFCe_

2024 World Champion of Public Speaking Luisa Montalvo sits down with Darren and Mark to discuss her journey from First Runner-Up in 2019 to World Champion in 2024…and her life-changing experience in between.  Luisa also shares her perspective on mentors, contests, taking risks, and serving your audience, providing tips that will help any presenter to become unforgettable.   SNIPPETS:   • Listen to your mentor   • Have fun   • Compete when it's time   • Ask: “Does the audience NEED this?”   • Be willing to take risks   • Be tactful   • Always keep the audience in mind   • Be open-minded to suggestions and criticism                                             • Follow your heart   • Prepare for the aftermath of a win

Many pastors prepare new messages weekly. How can they create ‘moments,' and what tools can they use to be unforgettable?   Pastor Shane Philip of Las Vegas, NV talks with Mark and Darren about his process, as well as the tools, process and techniques that help him to be unforgettable. He explains how he uses visuals, illustrations, and humor to connect with his audiences and offers advice on how to increase your relatability to your audience.  If you wish, see Shane's message here   SNIPPETS: • Everything in life becomes a story   • Keep a file of interesting stories   • Start with a personal experience and/or humorous story for relatability   • Draw the audience in early and establish an emotional connection   • Normal, everyday stories are most effective   • Use AI to catalog your stories   • Use visuals that can say it better than you can   • The right object lesson for the right point will be unforgettable                                             • Value your audience by being fully prepared   • Fill yourself so you can fill your audience; read, listen, learn   • Rehearse out loud several times   • Normal, everyday stories are most effective

Many pastors prepare new messages weekly. How can they create ‘moments,' and what tools can they use to be unforgettable?   Pastor Shane Philip of Las Vegas, NV talks with Mark and Darren about his process, as well as the tools, process and techniques that help him to be unforgettable. He explains how he uses visuals, illustrations, and humor to connect with his audiences and offers advice on how to increase your relatability to your audience.  If you wish, see Shane's message here   SNIPPETS: • Everything in life becomes a story   • Keep a file of interesting stories   • Start with a personal experience and/or humorous story for relatability   • Draw the audience in early and establish an emotional connection   • Normal, everyday stories are most effective   • Use AI to catalog your stories   • Use visuals that can say it better than you can   • The right object lesson for the right point will be unforgettable                                             • Value your audience by being fully prepared   • Fill yourself so you can fill your audience; read, listen, learn   • Rehearse out loud several times   • Normal, everyday stories are most effective

Ping: (verb) to send a signal to (a device) in order to determine its status or location.   As presenters, we must be sure that our audiences receive our message. We ‘ping' in order to determine our audience's status (engagement/understanding) and location (presence.) Today Darren and Mark drill down on ‘pinging' and share how pinging, when done well, can leave a lasting impact.   SNIPPETS:   • Check in with the audience   • Confirm their thought process   • Make an emotional connection   • Are they following you   • Can they relate   • Do they fully comprehend   • Read the audience's reaction   • Ping and Pause                                             • Do you ping enough   • Do you ping at the right moments   • Ping for deeper connection and lasting impact  

Imagine being on stage for the FIRST TIME, telling a deeply personal and emotional story that you've NEVER told before, to an audience of executives. How would you navigate ? Today Darren and Mark get answers form Monika, a coaching client from Australia who faced that exact situation recently. She openly shares her fears and triumphs, as well as the process that helped her to deliver an unforgettable presentation.    SNIPPETS: • Don't underestimate the power of your personal story   • Use the power of your mind to overcome your fear   • You don't know you can until you try   • Take a leap of faith and   • Step out of your comfort zone   • Putting yourself out there is powerful   • If you feel afraid, you SHOULD tell your story   • Use a stage plan to help you to anchor the stages of your story                                             • Sharing your vulnerabilities can be empowering   • Good coaching is a game changer

You've just completed an engagement, and the event planner gives you a 5-star rating because you kicked butt! What next? What more can you do to maintain world class standards and service and elevate your game? Using one of his very recent experiences, Mark talks with Darren about proven practices to help any presenter shine after a successful event and remain unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • Ask: how can I provide more value   • Ask: How can I multiply what I have provided   • Get testimonials   • Screenshot comments on social media, messaging services and e-mails   • Get LinkedIn with event attendees   • ALWAYS have a debrief call with the event planner   • Give the attendees a reason to share your value                                             • Share testimonials/surveys with the event planner and bureau (if applicable)   • Capitalize on the high of the moment   • Offer to provide more than a presentation

Do your clients and prospects know how much you have to offer? Mark and Darren discuss more than a dozen additional ways that you can serve your clients, and techniques for making meeting planners aware.   SNIPPETS:   • Add value   • Let them know during your pitch   • Reinforce during pre-event call   • Remind them during your follow-up meeting   • Put additional offerings in the contract/agreement   • Seed additional services during your presentation   • No need to sell from the stage                                             • Use TalkaDot   • Have a verbal Linktree conversation   • Pass a clipboard to collect information   • Use your newsletter • Give away your book during your presentation                                                                                                          

Sometimes, life happens. It's inevitable. Today, Darren opens up about a personal tragedy, as he and Mark explore ways to navigate life's challenges and remain unforgettable.    SNIPPETS:   • Life will happen   • You are not alone   • Accept help   • Tap into your professional network and mastermind   • Ask for grace   • Take care of yourself   • Call, or send e-mail to your clients and associates                                             • How can your tragedy help others?   • What can you still do amidst your challenge…even from the road?   • Have a backup plan   • Who can you recommend as your replacement • When life happens to your peers, would they call YOU?                                                                                                          

Change is constant and as presenters, we must stay relevant. Today Darren and Mark explore ways for us to stay current, stay relevant and become unforgettable.    SNIPPETS:   • Seek to serve your audience   • Update websites, slide decks, and demo videos regularly   • Stay aware of industry changes   • Be aware of what's ‘top of mind' in your area of expertise   • Constantly look for relevant stories and events   • Look for the ‘emotional juice.'   • Update your references, quotes, and content                                             • Get familiar with new and emerging technology   • Learn about current hot topics   • Explore new tools (TALKADOT etc.)   • Use your network and mastermind • Use Google search ‘NEWS' option for client organization updates

What does it take to truly become the speaker everyone loves and a master of your craft? Mark and Darren offer a ‘mathematical formula' and a process to not only become a master, but to be unforgettable as well.    SNIPPETS:   • It starts with a decision to master your craft   • Commit to the work   • Put in the EFFORT   • Multiply EFFORT by a PROVEN PROCESS   • Use the CORE 4 PROCESS   • Learn how to make each step better   • Add a QUALIFIED COACH                                             • Tweak your technique   • Learn what your audience needs from you   • Master your craft and create your process   • Give your audience your process and help them grow

Emerging presenters often wonder, “Should I join the National Speakers Association? Toastmasters? Both?” Darren and Mark ask and answer these questions while sharing the benefits of both organizations.    SNIPPETS: • Learn the art and business of speaking   • Both organizations are valuable   • Toastmasters is a wonderful place to make mistakes   • NSA provides business-building tools and expertise   • Toastmasters provides a friendly practice audience   • NSA helps build professional relationships   • Visit 3 Toastmasters clubs                                             • Attend an NSA meeting as a guest   • Find out how you can serve each organization   • Both provide mentorship   • Visit both NSA and Toastmasters for what you can get, and what you can give

Jeff Rogers, a fairly new member of the National Speakers Association, is the winner of NSA's LAST STORY STANDING storytelling competition. He and Mike Davis…one of his coaches…chat with Mark and Darren about his intent, his process, and the lessons he learned on his journey to the first-place trophy.   SNIPPETS: • Seek to build relationships first   • Enter contests to learn   • Work with a coach to sharpen your story   • Step away from your ego   • Don't just tell the story; enact it   • Show your characters' perspective   • Don't be the hero of your own story                                             • Your story's hero can be a CONCEPT   • Stay in your style; don't let anyone coach you out of it   • Go down with YOUR message   • Practice, then go play

Rotary Speech Contest, Story SLAM, MOTH, Last Story Standing, World Championship of Public Speaking, and more. Speech competitions abound, and today Darren and Mark are joined by Stage Time University faculty member Mike Davis as they face the question: “Why compete?” Their answers provide the myriad benefits of competing.    SNIPPETS: • Get better faster, grow, and improve quickly   • Breakthroughs come from experience, and experience comes from competing   • Transcend your comfort zone   • Get coaches - plural   • Competition pushes you to work harder   • Get a higher level of feedback   • Push to be your best at your competition's level of excellence   • Build confidence                                             • Learn lasting techniques from the best   • Apply discipline and a process   • Work against a clock with deadlines

Imagine being asked to deliver new material, on a subject you have never addressed, on short notice, under pressure, three times in 24 hours. Today, Mark and Darren talk with professional speaker and coach Sheree Cain-Jones, who found herself in that situation recently. Her insight from the lessons learned, and the principles she applied along the way, will help you navigate the ‘new content on short notice' path, and deliver your unforgettable presentation.   SNIPPETS: • Acknowledge the weight of responsibility when delivering new content   • Stop, think, take it in, then decide to accept an assignment on short notice   • We can find reasons to say ‘no;' find reasons to say ‘yes'   • Be wary of your ‘echo chamber' and lean on your support group   • Start with a PREGNANT PREMISE   • Adopt a research mindset and dig deep into your topic   • Put on your hat of humility   • Be vulnerable, even though it creates risk                                             • To internalize content, record, listen, re-record, listen again   • Don't be perfect; be prepared   • Incorporate your strengths and skillset   • Your message isn't in you; it IS you

We ALL speak with an accent, and at times it's easy to believe that we must ‘lose' our accent to be accepted. Today, Mark and Darren have a frank conversation with speech and accent expert Dr. Leslie Gordon, as she gives advice on using your accent as an asset.    SNIPPETS: • Honor the skill of owning more than one sound   • Treat the world as a playground for your eyes and ears   • The way we speak creates a picture of who we are   • Your accent is a tool in your toolkit   • Your accent can create a connection   • Your accent is a layer of your story   • We all have more than one accent   • Focus on being understood and prioritize clarity                                             • Language can be a social and political tool, causing some to feel ‘othered'   • Move away from self-judgment   • Code-Switching requires great skill and is governed by rules   • Don't think ‘accent reduction;' think ‘accent acquisition'                                             • Your accent can feel like home

Script writing takes work and the practical, time-saving methods that Darren and Mark discuss today will make the process easier. Listen as they examine how to create your first script, edit with impact, and use your script as a presentation roadmap.    SNIPPETS: • You can't edit what you don't create   • In Microsoft Word use DICTATE to generate a transcript   • Create your ‘sloppy first copy'   • Separate each line of your script   • Add LINE NUMBERS in Google Docs, MS Word, etc.   • Add WORD COUNT   • Insert PAGE NUMBERS   • Insert LINE NUMBERS                                             • Customize with pause cues, timing cues, emotion cues, and stage direction   • Color code notes as you wish   • Say it better with fewer words

Quotations from famous speakers, authors, and celebrities can be very appealing and can support your message. The same can be said of oft-quoted statistics. Today Mark and Darren discuss the importance of accuracy when using quotes and statistics, share a few examples, and provide simple yet effective advice for ‘getting it right.'   SNIPPETS:   • Do due diligence   • Your reputation and credibility are at stake   • Verification sources abound…web searches, AI, etc. Use them   • “Stop quoting dead white men!” – Patricia Fripp   • Create your own quotes   • Quote the people who have influenced you…teachers, friends, family                                             • Your audience needs your perspective   • Verify EVERY quotation for accuracy   • Double check the context of every quote and statistic   • Name the source of each quote and statistic   • Your accuracy…and inaccuracy has a global reach

Sometimes, even after your best pitch, the answer is “No.” But that need not be the end of the relationship. Darren and Mark offer some sage wisdom about taking advantage of every ‘no,' and sometimes turning a “no” into  “yes.”   SNIPPETS: • No can mean several things   • “Not yet, not the right time, not the best fit”   • Be remembered   • Have CONTENT and INTENT   • Don't take “no” personally   • Build relationships, regardless of the outcome                                             • Play the long game   • Record and replay each sales call to learn from every “no”   • Be a referral resource when you get a “no”   • Be a favorite