Podcast appearances and mentions of darren lacroix

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

  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

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

Welcome to the episode of The Lindsey Anderson Show. I'm so excited for today's guest, Mr. Darren LaCroix. In this episode, we dive into the power of stage time and the habit of showing up even when it's uncomfortable. We talk about how taking risks and facing failure head-on can fuel growth in both public speaking and business. Guest IntroductionToday's guest is Darren LaCroix, an internationally recognized speaker and coach. He outshone 25,000 contestants from 14 countries to become the world champion of public speaking. Darren is the author of two books—Laugh and Get Rich and The Speaker's Edge—and he holds the unique distinction of being the only speaker in the world who is both an accredited, certified speaking professional and a world champion of public speaking. He's known for his mantra, “Stage time, stage time, stage time,” and his relentless commitment to doing the work—even when it means looking bad. Darren's approach offers transformational insights that are essential for online coaches and for anyone looking to scale their business.How to Build a Profitable Speaking Business - Key TakeawaysConsistent Practice Is Crucial: “Any day you don't get on stage is a day you don't grow.”Failure Is Fuel: I embraced failure after a business setback and learned that having no ego opens the door to growth.Mentorship Matters: Mentors saw my willingness to do the work, even when I was a nervous, wannabe comedian.The Power of Stage Time: Driving two and a half hours for a five-minute open mic set taught me that showing up, even in less-than-ideal circumstances, builds resilience.Transformative Storytelling: Use your personal experiences—your struggles, failures, and breakthroughs—to create stories that captivate and transform your audience, and ultimately, help you scale your business.Overcoming Fear and FailureI started as a shy, introverted wannabe comedian with zero confidence.My comedy mentors said, “Any day you don't get on stage is a day you don't grow.”After a business failure, I had no ego—just the drive to learn and improve.Despite the risk of embarrassment, I embraced every open mic night as a chance to evolve.These experiences not only transformed my public speaking but also shaped my approach as a business coach for coaches, teaching me to overcome fear and build resilience.Growth Through Stage TimeI drove two and a half hours just to secure five minutes on stage.Even when my high school buddy called me “stupid” for chasing my dream, my mentors recognized my determination.The consistent habit of showing up, regardless of the outcome, is what built my foundation.This is a core principle in transformational coaching and scaling an online business—consistency creates growth.Transition from Comedy to Public SpeakingI learned that while comedy clubs were great for initial failures, they weren't the right fit for my soul.Finding Toastmasters was a game changer—a warm, encouraging space where I could build my public speaking skills during the day.I joined multiple clubs to “quadruple my failure rate” and maximize stage time opportunities.This transition is a prime example of transformational coaching in action, illustrating how real-world challenges can prepare you for scaling your online coaching business.The Art of StorytellingA mentor once told me: “Stop trying to find that story that launches your speaking career. Instead, take the stories you already have and make them so good someone will pay to hear them.”A good story starts with who you were—your visuals, your emotions—and then takes the audience on a journey...

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

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_

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

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?                                                                                                          

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

You can't teach everything you know in an hour. (At least we hope not!) So, if you are a speaker, consultant or coach are you allowing people to take more of your wisdom home? Anyone can write a book, but do you have the right book? Do you offer it in your proposals? What if you could wave your speaking fee and still earn revenue. Darren sits down with his publisher, Henry Devires to get some insights from experience. Why other experience does Henry offer? "The Agency Owner Book Guy" | Author of Marketing With A Book For Agency Owners | Agency Owner News | Agency owner TV show host | Professional Speaker | CEO of Indie Books | Ghostwriter & Writer for Forbes.com & Inc.com   SNIPPETS: • Henry's background   • Tapping into other budgets   • Why the right book matters   • What is an independent publisher?   • 3 Critical Mistakes author's make   • It easier, faster and more affordable now than in the 1990's   • The two biggest book revolutions publishing in the past 20 years   • Persistently helpful   • Success stories from Henry's authors   • Write the Right Book Workshop

You want to ‘make it' in the speaking business so you seek advice from a seasoned pro. Are you willing to take their advice…even if it's hard to receive? Mark and Darren talk about advice they have received…and given…that some people don't accept. These poignant nuggets of wisdom can help any presenter along the path to becoming unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • Get your sea legs   • Find a way to give 100 speeches   • Invest the effort to get XXX rated…Xperience, Xpertise and Xposure.   • Take and pass the ‘book test'   • Get stage time from service clubs, Toastmasters and more                                             • Speak for free before you speak for fee   • Pay the mountain   • Do what others won't   • Speak virtually even if it's uncomfortable                                             • GET A COACH

You have just attended a conference, heard good speakers, and received powerful content. You walk away with a folder full of notes, e-mail addresses and phone numbers. NOW what should you do? Darren and Mark share best practices to keep your enthusiasm and momentum alive and productively take full advantage of the event experience.   SNIPPETS: • Review KEEPERS and ACTION ITEMS   • Prioritize ONE ACTION and follow through on that action consistently   • Connect with another attendee as an accountability partner   • Create a mastermind with other attendees   • Connect with fellow speakers and attendees on LinkedIn                                             • Connect with the event planner and thank them   • Eliminate items that create bad habits   • Apply the principles your learned                                             • Revisit your notes from the last event you attended and take ONE ACTION

Sit down with Darren and Michael Davis as they cover what it really takes to make an event flow, the MC. Michael is not only a speaker and a TEDx Coach, he has been MCing Lady and the Champs and Game Changers for over a decade.  Unforgettable events have unforgettable MCs. World-class MCs have skillsets that many do not even think about. Whether you want to be an MC, speaking at a large event or running one, get a deeper understanding of the role they play. It is critical to the success of the event.   SNIPPETS:  • The critical skills of listening and improv?   • Transition from one speaker to the next   • MCs can get paid really well   • It's a true team effort   • Two-way communication is critical   • The greatest compliment for Ford Saeks   • What did Patricia Fripp say about Michael Davis?   • Confidence comes from experience   • Virtual MC?   • The virtual proximity effect   Check out Game Changers: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/workshops/game-changers/ Use Ford's Discount Code: Michael25

In addition to being part of speaking communities, we, as presenters belong to professional, social, charitable, faith-based, and other communities. Today Mark and Darren discuss the power of community, examining the ways that communities make us grow…and change. They offer advice on collaborating with your community, growing your community, and even leaving your community. Using Stage Time University, Toastmasters International, and the National Speakers Association as examples, they show benefits and blessings of being in community with like-minded people and reveal how community has helped them to prepare unforgettable presentations.   SNIPPETS: • Community helps change perspective   • Choose your community   • Use your community   • Serve your community   • Build your community   • Don't be abused by your community, if you must leave, do so with grace                                             • Protect your community   • Don't think NETWORKING; think NETSERVING   • Is your community helping or harming you   • Take inventory of your communities

Virtual presentations are now commonplace and it's easy to assume, “I've done quite a few of these and I'm good!” Today Darren and Mark share reminders of how FLOW, FOCUS and PACE ELEMENTS can make a significant difference in your virtual presentation…especially since distractions can be continuous and abundant.   SNIPPETS: • Check your studio setup…especially what's behind you   • Re-evaluate every aspect of your virtual presentation   • To maintain FLOW, it's wise to have a producer, co-host, or co-presenter   • Be aware of the difference between a co-host, and a co-presenter   • Establish key toles up front   • Create smooth handoffs                                             • To maintain audience FOCUS, make slides simple and clear, 1 slide, 1 point   • Use PACE ELEMENTS to keep your audience engaged   • Use client's language to solidify your connection

The story is arguably a presenter's most potent tool. While it's important to tell stories well, it is equally…if not significantly more important to transport your audience into the story. As Mark and Darren explain today, the key is to have CONGRUENT CHARACTERS, whose emotions are congruent with the emotion that they feel in the story. They share why many presenters fall short in this area and offer solid suggestions for using body language for greater emotional impact.   SNIPPETS: • Let your audience feel the emotion of the characters   • Don't elicit confusion   • In your script add ‘before' and ‘after' emotions in parentheses   • Your eyes should change when the emotion changes   • Emotional shifts are unclear without a character's baseline emotion   • Leave your emotional baseline when you embody a character                                             • Record video, playback muted, ask a friend to identify the emotion   • Be congruent to connect

What would you dare to dream if you knew you would not fail? That was the question that reignited Darren's childhood dream. It was not luck that made Darren the go-to person in his industry; it was pure effort and the right direction with the right mentors and coaches. As he said, surround yourself with the right people who will pick you up when you fail. Darren LaCroix is the co-host of the Unforgettable Presentations podcast and also the coauthor of two books, "Laugh & Get Rich" and "The Speaker's Edge." Through his live workshops and online programs, Darren works with presenters eager to learn what it takes to connect deeply with their audiences. As the founder of StageTimeUniversity.com, he shows presenters how to be unforgettable. Listen to this episode where Darren assures us that anything is possible with the right equation – Effort x Improving Process + Qualified Coach.

“I thought you would come out with more ENERGY!” Imagine hearing THAT from a meeting planner! (Ask Darren!) He and Mark talk about matching the audience's energy as they share techniques for connecting quickly and delivering an unforgettable experience.   SNIPPETS: • Read the room and match the energy   • Always connect first   • Research the audience; learn what is top of mind for them   • Arrive hours or days early and have conversations in the corridor                                             • Keep your finger on the pulse of the event   • Avoid get caught thinking, “I didn't see THAT coming!”   • Avoid starting with energy too low or too high   • Look at the audience as you speak and check their body language                                             • See the audience's perspective

Darren LaCroix, is the only speaker in the world who is an Accredited Speaker, Certified Speaking Professional and a World Champion of Public Speaking. Listen in as Darren discusses how during his journey from chump to champ he discovered a formula that yielded such abundant success, it surprised even himself. Drink of the Week: Rat Pack ManhattanJulie Brown: Website- ​https://juliebrownbd.com/Instagram- ​https://www.instagram.com/juliebrown_bd/LinkedIn- ​https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-brown-b6942817/Youtube- ​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIwWVdayM2mYXzR9JNLJ55QFacebook- ​https://www.facebook.com/juliebrownbd/Darren LaCroixhttps://darrenlacroix.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_tNpsyX9HvMKE-qjq98sIA

Mental Health. Suicide. Comedy. Those topics don't seem to flow seamlessly together…unless you're talking with 10-time TEDx speaker and comedian Frank King. Darren and Mark have a heart-to-heart with Frank, as he reveals his techniques for addressing such a tough topic, including vulnerability and humor. He also shares sage advice for securing, preparing and presenting TEDx talks. This powerful conversation delivers emotional and inspirational information that will help you to deliver an unforgettable presentation.   SNIPPETS: • Find your idea worth spreading   • Avoid bringing too many ideas   • Don't say too much about too many ideas   • Sell your idea in 90 seconds or fewer                                             • Be passionate about your idea   • Your title and subtitle must contain a ‘hook'   • Stand in your truth   • You can't be inspiring if you aren't inspired   • Use funny, personal stories instead of jokes   • Making people laugh prepares them for your next serious point

Your presentation is over, you've delivered great content, and you've served your audience well. But is there a way to add value IMMEDIATELY? Darren and Mark discuss the concept of CORRIDOR CONVERSATIONS…how getting an audience to continue engaging and interacting with each other can provide added benefit.   SNIPPETS: • Ignite corridor conversations   • Use stories as conversation-starters   • Invite attendees to ask: What's the problem, and what story has the solution?   • Create questions that spark conversation                                             • Hang around to gauge the impact   • Debrief corridor conversations in your post-event call   • Arrive a day early to learn what questions will spark conversation   • Add stimulating questions to a slide                                             • Follow up before the end of the event when you can

“To be unforgettable, you must have calluses on your head and your hands.” So says Dr. Jeff Magee, one of the world's foremost leadership and marketing strategists. In a brutally honest conversation with Mark and Darren, Dr. Magee opens his treasure trove of wisdom and passionately reinforces the value of solid content.   SNIPPETS: • People pay for your wisdom   • Make sure your content stands up   • What are your calluses on your head and your hands?   • Play the student                                             • Ask: “How can I become better?”   • Knowledge isn't enough; learn the craft of rhetoric and speaking   • Your presentations come from your history; search your mind's archives   • How will your audience be different on Monday morning?                                             • Make time to think   • Provide content that meets people where they are mentally

No two audiences are alike, so how can you ensure that you connect with every audience, especially when you deliver the same presentation frequently? Darren and Mark share personal experiences as they talk about ways to connect with every unique audience, keep your presentation fresh, and get glowing testimonials.   SNIPPETS: • Every audience is different   • We are 100% responsible for our connection with the audience   • Interview audience members in advance   • Identify  and honor the company's ‘patriarch' and ‘matriarch'   • Identify and edify NEW employees and team-members                                             • Invest extra effort to find out what resonates with each audience   • If you're not connected your audience feels neglected   • Stay connected; you won't be rejected

Did you know that there are world class techniques embedded in the structure of speeches and stories? Today Mark and Darren discuss several of these techniques, which, when applied, can make your next presentation unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • Never devalue the power of a well-told story   • Assign names to your characters   • Provide at least one physical characteristic   • Give the audience a reason to emotionally connect with the main character   • Show characters' ‘BEFORE' condition (body language, emotion, demeanor)                                             • Make the main character ‘likeable'   • Apply the 'Rooting Principle' – make the audience WANT to support them   • Show the character ‘AFTER the Disaster'   • You don't need expert feedback to understand emotional impact

After your presentation, an audience member tells you that you said something that offended them. What should you do? What should you say? In a candid, vulnerable conversation, Mark and Darren hear first-hand from speaker, business leader, entrepreneur and grandma Margaret Page as she shares her faux pas, and her journey to redemption. Margaret offers sage advice to help any presenter avoid offending their audience, and to recover if they do.   SNIPPETS: • If you offend, don't make excuses   • Listen to your audience   • Don't place blame elsewhere   • Accept responsibility   • Learn from the experience   • Make amends. Ask “How can I make it right?”   • See through your audience's eyes   • Learn taboo topics and be open to diverse life experiences   • Look for commonalities, but never disregard cultural differences   • What would a leader do? Be a role model

Unforgettable presentations have FOUR basic, core elements and today Darren and Mark drill down on CORE 3: HUMOR and CORE 4: DELIVERY. Learn how to use humor well and deliver with impact…to be unforgettable.   SNIPPETS:   • Humor is a key to engagement; they work together   • The problem is funny; the solution is serious   • Find the audience's frustration                                             • Comedy cuts down; humor lifts up   • Use appropriate humor   • Intention is part of delivery   • If you're in your head, your emotions are dead   • Take your time at key moments.   • Pause to let the audience reflect   • Bring your personality to every presentation

Unforgettable presentations have basic, core elements that help to make them unforgettable. Today Darren and Mark discuss CORE 1: CONTENT & STRUCTURE as well as CORE 2: STORIES. Their principles will set you on the path to delivering your unforgettable presentation.   SNIPPETS:   • The CORE 4 lay the foundation of your presentation   • Use a strong structure on which to hang your presentation   • Strong structure makes your presentation digestible and unforgettable                                             • Choose content that serves the audience best   • Visuals and stage use should reinforce your presentation's structure   • Stories are the heartbeat of your presentation   • Stories should pique curiosity   • Stories must elicit emotion   • Stories should include emotional shifts   • Well-told stories deliver ‘moments' in your presentation

Does a speaker need more than one coach? Can a speaker have too many coaches? What if I know several equally qualified coaches; should I use them all? In this episode, Darren and Mark tackle this thorny issue and offer specific guidance on coach selection…to help you deliver your unforgettable presentation. SNIPPETS: • Pick ONE coach   • Choose a coach who understands your backstory   • Choose a coach who appreciates your style   • Be careful who you listen to   • Equally qualified coaches can give conflicting advice     • Each coach has their own ninja skill   • If you select a team of coaches, decide on your head coach   • You are the CEO of your speech   • Bring suggestions to your head coach and trust them to guide you

What makes a pro SHINE? Today Mark and Darren identify three techniques that true pros use to be unforgettable.   SNIPPETS:   • Engage the audience instantly   • Stand out before you even say a word   • Be fully present   • The first second and a half is critical   • Note cards are not a liability     • Don't be concerned about perfection   • Love the audience, love the moment   • Work the room in your style   • Do what you must to hit your points and serve your audience   • Sit in audience seats beforehand to get their perspective

Stories can greatly enhance any presentation but they can be confusing if characters aren't clearly identified. In today's discussion, Darren and Mark explore the value of naming characters and they offer ideas for making your characters unforgettable.   SNIPPETS: • Name every character for clarity   • Allow the audience to see the characters   • Avoid giving two characters similar names (Jane, Jean, Joan)   • Give a physical and characteristic and a personal trait   • Amalgamate characters for simplicity     • Tell the emotional truth   • Use adjective names to describe characters (Patty Party Pooper)   • In conversation, let the characters address each other by name

Imagine hearing a presenter and thinking, “They remind me of Tony Robbins and Les Brown. The perfect Motivational Speaker!” Then you meet them in the hallway and they sound ‘normal'…as if they turned off their ‘speaker voice.' In this episode, Mark and Darren discuss authenticity and pose the challenging question: Are YOU ‘Super Speaker?'   SNIPPETS: • Be yourself. Bring your personality to every presentation   • If your assignment warrants a dramatic voice, then use it.   • No need to try being the ULTIMATE EXPERT   • Your audience is already there and they want to hear YOU   • Record and watch yourself on video   • Do a gut check and assess yourself   • Avoid the risk of seeming disingenuous   • Authenticity + Vulnerability = Credibility

“But it's some of my FAVORITE MATERIAL!”   We want to give our audiences ALL our wisdom and experiences. But that's not always the best decision. Today Darren and Mark expound on three reasons why our favorite material must sometimes end up on ‘THE CUTTING ROOM FLOOR.'   SNIPPETS: • Your stories, anecdotes and references must serve your ‘PREMISE PURPOSE'   • The WEIGHT of your story may be heavier than your message   • Your content shouldn't overshadow your premise   • Consider the RELEVANCE to your audience   • Your liking a story doesn't mean the audience will   • If a story is too long for the allotted time, you may need to cut it   • Store Cutting Room Floor material in your Story Folder for later   • You can use Cutting Room Floor material to create handouts   • Test your content

Should we tell our most painful stories…the ones that take us to The Dark Place? Today Darren and Mark have a serious conversation about this touchy subject and offer solid advice about when to go to your Dark Place. SNIPPETS: • Your message is a MESS with AGE   • You must be able to laugh about your struggle before you can talk about it.   • Don't abuse the privilege of the platform   • Your Dark Place story shouldn't overtake your speech   • Go to your dark place when it's appropriate and effective   • There may be value in going to your Dark Place   • Cushion the setup of your Dark Place story   • Be sure you can find your way back   • Be sure you have healed before going to your Dark Place

AI is everywhere. How can presenters use AI as a tool, without diminishing their expertise? Today Darren and Mark offer THREE specific ways that presenters can use AI advantageously. SNIPPETS: • Think of AI as an intern • Speakers who don't use AI could be replaced by AI • Use AI to create ‘sticky' phrases • Use prompts to get the options you need • The more specific the prompts, the better the results • Meeting planners respond to catchy presentation titles • AI can help you to customize your speech to serve different demographics • AI can give good feedback, but will never replace a qualified coach

This question is based on the role of the lamplighter: a person employed to light and maintain gas streetlights. Today Mark and Darren explore ways that we, as presenters, can be lamplighters for our audiences.   • One of your jobs is to light the path of those who follow you   • Your experiences can illuminate their path and make their journey easier   • Your lamplight identifies the danger for those who come behind you   • Your lamplight shows the path that you have taken   • Your lamp lights the path of people you don't even know   • Your lamplight can lead others to their destination   • Work on your skills and storytelling NOW   • Let your lamplight be a legacy of value Work with Mark & Darren: https://www.stagetimeuniversity.com/

Join Ford as he explores the latest strategies, market trends and insights to help your business grow and succeed in today's fast-paced and ever-changing business world. This week, Ford sits down with Darren LaCroix where they discuss Why Events Need Professional Speakers. They chat about how to determine the themes & goals of your event, how to pick the right fit for a professional speaker, and how to promote your event to ensure it attracts a large audience. Ford Saeks has redefined the formula for business success. From start-ups to Fortune 500's, Saeks is widely recognized as a Business Growth Innovator. With over 20 years' experience (ranging from retail to wholesale), he has founded over ten companies, authored four books, been awarded three U.S. patents, and received numerous industry awards. As President and CEO of Prime Concepts Group, Inc., a digital marketing firm, Ford specializes in helping businesses attract loyal and repeat customers, monetize social media, and ignite innovation.

Join the Indie Books family of speakers and authors for a roundtable discussion of how to have more impact and influence. This week we are joined by Darren LaCroix & Mark Brown to discuss "How To Deliver Unforgettable Presentations". Darren LaCroix and Mark Brown, along with Hall of Fame Speaker Patricia Fripp, are coauthors of the book Deliver Unforgettable Presentations: How To Speak To Be Remembered And Repeated In-Person, Online And Onstage. LaCroix and Brown are both past Toastmasters World Champions of Public Speaking. They are the cohosts of the Unforgettable Presentations podcast. Through their live workshops and StageTimeUniversity.com, they help good presenters become unforgettable. LaCroix is currently the only speaker in the world who is a CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), an AS (Accredited Speaker), and a World Champion of Public Speaking. Despite this, LaCroix always reminds people, “The letters after your name are not as important as the professional you become in the process.” Please visit our website to learn more https://indiebooksintl.com Marketing With A Book Podcast Episode 82 Recorded 9/13/2022

Welcome, 7 Hatters! In this episode, we speak with Darren LaCroix and dive deep into hats 1, 4, and 7... the Soul, the entrepreneur, and the seeker, as we ask ourselves the question... What would you dare to dream if you knew you wouldn't fail?Darren is literally the only one in the world. He is currently the only speaker who is a Certified Speaking Professional, an Accredited Speaker, and a World Champion of Public speaking... not to mention a very successful fellow entrepreneur.It is known that you are only as good as your training. A great coach finds and helps you discover the greatness already inside you.So if you want to become a dynamic, inspiring and persuasive communicator, learn the secrets of storytelling, own the stage in your next important presentation, or just find the humor hidden inside you waiting to come out... Then let's welcome Darren to the 7 Hats... -------------------------Visit https://www.the7hats.com/ for more information and more shows.Darren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenlacroix/Darren's Website - https://darrenlacroix.com/My Bio & Links: https://sleek.bio/yuvalselikSUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW...Want to be the first to know when new episodes are released? Please subscribe and leave a review!Subscribes and podcasts reviews are pretty darn important to iTunes, and the more reviews we receive, the more likely we'll be able to get The 7 Hats message in front of more people (It's all about the iTunes algorithms)I'd be extremely grateful if you left a review letting me know your favorite part of the show or episode :)

Another excerpt from the Toastmasters International webinar "Speak for Yourself" with Darren Lacroix (2001 World Champion), Simon Bucknall from D91, 2nd place in 2017 WCPS, and Ramona Smith, 2018 World Champion, talking this time about how introverts can become better speakers and how Toastmasters helps improve confidence. ______________________________________________________________________ This is episode 2 from Programme 31 of the 2021/22 season - published on March 26th with Moira O'Brien & Paul O'Mahony, produced and edited by Moira O'Brien DTM. The show is in four parts and usually has this format: (1) Introducing a “Thought for the Week” and a “Word of the Week” together with general conversation arising out of these two topics. Published at 4pm on Fridays. (2) Either an Interview, the recording of a speech or external media. Published at 4pm on Saturdays. (3) Discussion on a topic usually led by Paul. Published at 4pm on Sundays. (4) Discussion on a topic usually led by Paul. Published at 4pm on Mondays We often film the recording of these shows to YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZHVM9lgg2KJuZL6DcoUxD1_mVddOFe-J). Contact us : email: info@irishtalkers.com Website: www.irishtalkers.com Facebook: The Talk Show for Talkers Magazine: "Public Speaking Weekly" on www.irishtalkers.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/irish-talkers/message

Today we get to speak with Chris Stone. With a 25+ year history in the music industry with Sony, driven and passionate entrepreneur Chris Stone founded the Podcast and Live Streaming Consultancy Cast Ahead after the success of his own co-hosted podcasts changed his life. At Cast Ahead, Chris thrives on enabling driven entrepreneurs, influencers, thought leaders, and enterprises to express their stories and elevate their reach while extending their efficiency in that process. Chris also co-hosts Dealcasters, an Amazon Live show with Jim Fuhs of Fuhsion Marketing where they interview experts and entrepreneurs while training Amazon customers on how to overcome the fear of technology and start and flourish in their content creator journeys. In just over a year, Dealcasters have established themselves as a trusted authority not only in the live video and podcasting space but also in the education of the Amazon Influencer program and the development of Influencers already on the platform. They've spoken on stage and virtually at PodFest Expo, VidFest Expo, StreamYard Industry Showcase, Agorapulse Agency Summit, Midwest Digital Marketing Conference, Social Media Week Lima, and others. Dealcasters also collaborate as remote live producers and have led, assisted and coordinated production teams with clients such as IBM, StreamYard, United Nations Global Compact, MIT, Toastmasters International, Glasko Smith Kline (GSK), Jamaican Chamber Of Commerce, Sphinx International, and USABizParty, which have included speakers such as Gary Vaynerchuk, Seth Godin, Darren LaCroix and many more. Our Guest Chris Stone Website: CastAhead.Contact (Company Website) Website : ChrisStone.Contact (Company Website) Website: castahead.net (Company Website) LinkedIn : linkedin.com/in/chrisstoneatl Hacks to Take Away Chris shared different ways to invest in your business. Time is money. Spending time with your family living the life that you choose. Hire somebody to do something and give that person a better career. If you create a show that you're passionate about, you're going to create a tribe of people that will listen to you and follow you. You have to understand what the purpose is. Surround yourself with other people that help and sharpen your irons, you have a desire to do things. Let's get started with your Home Studio! Be ready for live streaming, zoom calls, and creating content. Let me help you build a space that helps you gain confidence in front of the lens. Book a call here for a free consultation: http://hacksandhobbies.com/booking --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/hacksandhobbies/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/hacksandhobbies/support

An extract from a webinar from Toastmasters International from 2020 featuring Simon Bucknall from D91, 2nd place in 2017 WCPS, Darren LaCroix, 2001 World Champion and Ramona Smith, 2018 World Champion, talking about "recognising all the ways public speaking applies their your daily life". Moderated by Accredited Speaker Tammy Miller. ______________________________________________________________________ This is episode 2 from Programme 29 of the 2021/22 season - published on March 5th with Ted Mellamphy & Paul O'Mahony, produced and edited by Moira O'Brien DTM. The show is in four parts and usually has this format: (1) Introducing a “Thought for the Week” and a “Word of the Week” together with general conversation arising out of these two topics. Published at 4pm on Fridays. (2) Either an Interview, the recording of a speech or external media. Published at 4pm on Saturdays. (3) Discussion on a topic usually led by Paul. Published at 4pm on Sundays. (4) Discussion on a topic usually led by Paul. Published at 4pm on Mondays We often film the recording of these shows to YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZHVM9lgg2KJuZL6DcoUxD1_mVddOFe-J). Contact us : email: info@irishtalkers.com Website: www.irishtalkers.com Facebook: The Talk Show for Talkers Magazine: "Public Speaking Weekly" on www.irishtalkers.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/irish-talkers/message

Has anyone ever said to you, “don't quit your day job”. This is such a sh!t thing to say, because it implies that if you aren't proficient at something from the beginning, then you never will be and you should give up trying. One of the biggest mistakes you can make in business is thinking that things will come to you quickly. Believing that anyone has ever become an overnight success. Listen in as I talk with the one and only Darren LaCroix, the author of two books: Laugh & Get Rich and The Speaker's Edge. He is the only speaker in the world who is an Accredited Speaker, Certified Speaking Professional and a World Champion of Public Speaking. Darren discusses how during his journey from chump to champ he discovered a formula that yielded such abundant success, it surprised even himself.  Drink of the Week: Rat Pack Manhattan https://intoxicologist.net/2011/02/join-the-rat-pack-for-a-manhattan/ (https://intoxicologist.net/2011/02/join-the-rat-pack-for-a-manhattan/) This episode is sponsored by Nickerson, a full-service branding, marketing, and PR and communications agency with team members in Boston, LA, Miami, and NYC. https://nickersoncos.com/ (https://nickersoncos.com/) Julie Brown: 60 Minute Breakthrough Session ($225). https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=20330628&appointmentType=18450786 Website- ​https://juliebrownbd.com/ (https://juliebrownbd.com/) Instagram- ​https://www.instagram.com/juliebrown_bd/ (https://www.instagram.com/juliebrown_bd/) LinkedIn- ​https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-brown-b6942817/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-brown-b6942817/) Youtube- ​https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIwWVdayM2mYXzR9JNLJ55Q (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIwWVdayM2mYXzR9JNLJ55Q) Facebook- ​https://www.facebook.com/juliebrownbd/ (https://www.facebook.com/juliebrownbd/) Darren LaCroix https://darrenlacroix.com/ (https://darrenlacroix.com/) https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_tNpsyX9HvMKE-qjq98sIA (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_tNpsyX9HvMKE-qjq98sIA) Book: http://www.17minutestoyourdream.com/ (http://www.17minutestoyourdream.com/) Where Good Presenters Become UNFORGETTABLE: https://stagetimeuniversity.com/ (https://stagetimeuniversity.com) Darren's Podcast: https://www.unforgettablepresentationspodcast.com/ (https://www.unforgettablepresentationspodcast.com)

Whether with an audience of one, a gathering of hundreds, or an online presence that touches tens of thousands, we all want to captivate people with what we say. Today's show covers the specifics of capturing the attention of others with your words. Join us to learn more! Eva DeVirgilis is an actress and makeup artist. She created a TEDx talk that went viral with nearly one million views. HER Magazine recognized her talk as one of their “Top inspirational TEDtalks to Help You Change Your Life.” Eva has the secret to getting your message so clean, targeted, and engaging that it has the potential to go viral, or at least help you speak in ways that cause people to sit up and take notice. In one-on-one conversations, a boardroom, and groups from 10-10,000, Eva has helpful tips for a tight, focused, engaging message to attract people to you and what you do. She shares specifics about prep work, breathing exercises, and creating your hook. Her coaching is the secret weapon for many top-earning executives, industry leaders, politicians, and influencers, and she empowers many thought leaders to communicate at their highest potential. She brings 20 years of experience in TV, comedy, and business to help you find the creative, passionate, dynamic speaker within you. Eva has taught Creative Presentations at VCU School of Business and loves to help people tell their stories.  Show Highlights: How Eva's path unfolded to merge her passions of performing, being a makeup artist, and reaching people around the world with her TEDx talk How Eva's talk helped her become a creative communications consultant to help others share their message Where to begin with any talk or presentation: Think about your audience-- What do you want to make them do? What do you want to make them feel? “Hook them right away, make them feel something, and compel them to action.” How Eva's plan for her TEDx talk narrowed her message to women to forgive themselves, accept themselves, and stop saying, “I'm sorry” What Eva learned from Darren Lacroix and Craig Valentine: “Your audience is always listening to WIIFM radio.” (“What's in it for me?”) The bottom line is that it's all about the audience.  How to hook your audience: A short, engaging story A compelling question A shocking fact or statistic A compelling quote An unusual prop Humor What do you want your audience to do and feel? Have an objective that you want them to do (Eva explains how to use action verbs.) Have an objective that you want them to feel (Eva explains what words to use.) Why you need a script for a talk or presentation How to use your voice as a tool to comfort, activate, and engage How to do prep work to center yourself with breathing exercises (4-7-8 breaths) and stretching How to go to your big idea after your hook: Tell the audience why you are there. Use 14 words or less. Keep it simple. (Eva explains how to use Patricia Fripp's formula: “Every _____ can ______ by _____.”) Why your intro should come after the hook and big idea Why you should chunk your main points into three sections: Use the 10-20-30 rule for presentations. “Don't be the sideshow to your slideshow.” Back up your main points with evidence, a personal story, or play. Why your presentation bullet points need to go away How to  wrap up with a Q & A by asking, “What questions do you have for me?” How to state your call to action in 14 words or less and use a DTM (drop the mike) statement for your final moment Remember that your final statement is about your audience, especially those who haven't heard you before and may not hear you again. Resources: To find out more about Eva, visit her website: http://www.evadevirgilis.com ( www.EvaDeVirgilis.com)    Watch Eva's TEDx talk: https://www.tedxtokyo.com/translated_talk/in-my-chair-a-makeup-artists-perspective-on-beauty/ ( In my chair — a makeup artists perspective on beauty – TEDxTokyo)...

What would you dare to dream if you knew you wouldn't fail? That question by Motivational Guru Brian Tracy changed Darren's life when he answered, "I'd be a comedian" What would you do if you wanted to be a comedian? You'd go talk to a comedian and learn what it takes to be one. That's exactly what Darren did and he shares what he learned along the way. Darren says that weirdos think differently and if you want to Embrace Your Inner Weirdo, learn from those who have. Show notes: Be a Sponge Darren's New Book Stage Time University Darren's Website If you liked the show, rate, review, and subscribe, and remember to Leave a Tip. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rasheed-hooda/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rasheed-hooda/support

In 1992 Darren was listening to a cassette while driving when he heard Brian Tracy ask, “What would you dare to dream if you knew you wouldn't fail?” He was shocked. Darren thought, “I'd make people laugh!” What? Friends and family told him he was crazy because he just wasn't funny.With no talent and not a funny bone in his body he committed the one habit his mentors insisted on, “Never turn down stage time.” He didn't. In fact, he drove 2.5 hours to Portland Maine to go on stage for 5 minutes for free. Then he drove back to make it to his day job the next morning. His license plate is his reminder of the power of the right habits. What's his secret?“Stage time, stage time, stage time.”After a failed business in 1992, Darren LaCroix took the stage in a Boston comedy club and bombed miserably. It was horrible. The headliner that night told him to “keep his day job.” Friends told him that his dream of making people laugh for a living was crazy and stupid. He didn't listen.He may have been born without a funny bone in his body, but Darren possessed the desire to learn and the willingness to fail. These were the essentials for achieving his dream. This self-proclaimed student of comedy is living proof that anything can be learned.Less than nine years later, in 2001, Darren LaCroix outspoke 25,000 contestants from 14 countries to become the World Champion of Public Speaking. He did it with a very funny speech. Some said it was one of the best speeches in the history of the contest.Since that victory, Darren travels the world demystifying the process of creating a powerful presentation. His story has inspired audiences in 45 International cities including faraway places like Australia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, China, Oman, Malaysia, and Taiwan with his inspirational journey from Chump to Champ. He is passionate about showing people that if you are a sponge and have the right mentors, anything is possible.He is the co-host of the Unforgettable Presentations podcast and also the coauthor for two books, Laugh & Get Rich and the Speaker's Edge. Through his live workshops and online programs, Darren works with presenters eager to learn what it takes to connect deeply with their audiences. As the founder of StageTimeUniversity.com he shows presenters how to be unforgettable.Inspiring. Authentic. Passionate.Practical Strategies Delivered in an Unforgettable Way.https://darrenlacroix.com/Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/labanditchburn?fan_landing=true)

Join the Indie Books family of speakers and authors for a roundtable discussion of how to have more impact and influence. This week we are joined by Darren LaCroix, author of "17 Minutes To Your Dream." Darren LaCroix's journey is a real-life underdog story filled with humor and hope. After a failed business in 1992, Darren took a dare and took the stage at an open-mic night at a Boston comedy club. He bombed miserably. It was horrible. The headliner that night told him to "keep your day job, kid." Friends told him that his dream of making people laugh for a living was crazy and stupid. He didn't listen. He may have been born without a funny bone in his body, but Darren possessed the desire to learn and the willingness to fail. This self-proclaimed student of comedy is living proof that anything can be learned. Less than nine years later, in 2001, Darren outspoke 25,000 contestants from fourteen countries to become the World Champion of Public Speaking. Ironically, it was with a funny speech. Some said it was one of the best speeches in the history of the contest. Since that victory, he has delivered keynotes in every state in the United States and forty-four international cities. He is passionate about showing people that if you pray, find the right mentors, and become a sponge, anything is possible. Get the Top 10 Speaking Mistakes, go to: https://stagetimeuniversity.com/be-a-sponge If you would like more information on Darren please visit https://www.darrenlacroix.com Please visit our website to learn more https://indiebooksintl.com Marketing With A Book Podcast Episode 31 Recorded 8/3/2021

He felt invisible in high school.He failed as a business owner.He worked in a cubicle for over a decade.Today he's a world champion speaker.What made the difference for himcan make the difference for you.A Real-Life Underdog Story Filled with Humor and HopeAfter a failed business in 1992, Darren LaCroix took a dare and took the stage at an open mic night at a Boston comedy club. He bombed miserably. It was horrible. The headliner that night told him, "Keep your day job kid."  Friends told him that his dream of making people laugh for a living was crazy and stupid.  He didn't listen. He may have been born without a funny bone in his body, but Darren possessed the desire to learn and the willingness to fail. These were the essentials for achieving his dream. This self-proclaimed student of comedy is living proof that anything can be learned. Less than nine years later, in 2001, Darren LaCroix out spoke 25,000 contestants from 14 countries to become the World Champion of Public Speaking…ironically with a very funny speech. Some said it was one of the best speeches in the history of the contest.Since that victory, he has delivered keynotes in every state in the U.S. and 44 international cities. He is passionate about showing people that if you pray, find the right mentors, and become a sponge, anything is possible.Darren is currently the only speaker in the world who is a CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), an AS (Accredited Speaker), and a World Champion of Public Speaking. In spite of this, Darren always reminds people, “The letters after your name are not as important as the professional you become in the process.”He is the co-host of Unforgettable Presentations podcast. Through his live workshops and Stage Time University.com, he helps good presenters become UNFORGETTABLE.

How well do you speak under pressure? What if it was easier - What if you knew the secrets of the World Champion Speakers? On August 25th, out of 25,000 contestants from 14 countries, Darren LaCroix was crowned the 2001 World Champion of Public speaking. As a result of winning Darren has presented to Toast-masters in Malaysia, Taiwan, and Oman, and has left his day job of 11 years to pursue keynote speaking and coaching full time. On this content-rich show, Darren shares his tips & techniques so you will walk away with specific strategies that you can use in your very next speech!