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“The better the foundation is, the more opportunities I'm getting to do exactly that.”Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! This week's episode is another alumni spotlight, and it might be Dan's favorite combination yet: Matthew Sharpe is a licensed therapist — and a stand-up comedian. He put the two together in Standup Therapy Live, where the laughs do the heavy lifting for the mental health lessons. Matt works with high-stress, high-stakes professions — healthcare workers, law enforcement, corrections officers — teaching resilience through humor, complete with a “humor lab” where he makes rooms full of uniformed officers sweat bullets by writing jokes on a 15-minute deadline.But the real story of this episode isn't the comedy — it's the business. Matt just booked out a full week of paid speaking for the first week of October, and every gig in it traces back to a different lesson from The Speaker Lab playbook: cold outreach to people he'd never met, follow-up that turned one law enforcement gig into a repeat booking, and a Department of Corrections client bringing him back to train staff from around their state. He's even had a gig land completely cold — the National Conference of State Legislatures found him through SEO he didn't set up. And then there's the lesson most speakers never learn: Matt genuinely loves the process. The prospecting, the pipeline, even the rejections. Dan also coaches Matt through a proposal that died on price, unpacking budget questions, decision makers, add-on gigs, and the “menu” of offerings that can save a stalled deal.Whether you're still chasing your first paid gig or trying to figure out why your calendar isn't as full as your talent deserves, this conversation is a masterclass in falling in love with the 95% of the work that gets you the 5% on stage.You'll learn:How Matt booked a full week of paid speaking by following the process step by stepThe simple cold email (“quick question — who books your talks?”) that keeps turning into gigsHow follow-up after a gig — the harvest — creates repeat bookingsWhy an inbound gig from SEO is the bonus you earn for doing the workThe mindset shift that separates speakers who burn out from speakers who buildHow to reframe the business side as your foundation, not the tax you pay to performThe 85/15 rule of speaking — and why Dan thinks it's really 95/5How Matt learned to price himself with confidence (and who convinced him to raise his fee)Where a proposal to a doctors' organization stalled — and the budget questions that could have saved itHow add-on gigs and geographic prospecting give you room to get creative with your feeWhy offering a menu — keynote, workshop, reception comedy set — adds value for event plannersAnd much, much more!“Find something new and exciting that makes you laugh every day. It just opens your eyes to new possibilities.”Ready to build a speaking business that books itself — and actually enjoy the work that gets you on stage? Take the free Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and find out exactly where you are in your speaking journey and what to do next.Episode Resources:Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentMatthew Sharpe's WebsiteCalculate Your Speaking FeeSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
“Managing emotions—yours and your audience's—is hard enough, but it's even harder when you're under pressure to respond."High-pressure communication doesn't have to derail your message. In this Think Fast, Talk Smart Ask Matt Anything episode, Matt Abrahams answers real-world questions from members of the Think Fast, Talk Smart Learning Community, sharing practical advice for communicating with confidence when the stakes are high. From managing cognitive load and regulating anxiety to leading uncertain conversations and running more engaging meetings, Matt offers actionable strategies for staying focused, connecting with your audience, and communicating with clarity under pressureKey Takeaways:Manage your emotions to manage your message. Reducing cognitive load through preparation and emotional regulation helps you think and communicate more clearly under pressure.Lead with your audience in mind. Whether navigating uncertainty or running meetings, acknowledging emotions, setting clear expectations, and tailoring your message helps people stay engaged and take action.Activity:Stress-test your message. Before your next high-stakes conversation or presentation, rehearse it once under mild pressure—set a timer, record yourself, or practice with a colleague. Notice where you lose clarity, then refine those moments before the real conversation.Episode Reference Links:Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:07) - Speaking Under Pressure (04:01) - Calming an Anxious Audience (07:45) - More Engaging Meetings (12:33) - Communicating Change Without Fear (16:30) - Conclusion
"It's not an accent, it's an identity."The way we speak shapes more than how we're understood—it shapes how we're perceived. Peter Novak believes the goal of communication isn't to eliminate an accent, but to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and authenticity. As a linguist, communication coach, and expert in accent bias, Novak helps multilingual professionals communicate more effectively while embracing the identity their voice represents. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, he joins Matt Abrahams to explore how accent bias influences the workplace, why clarity matters more than sounding "native," and the practical techniques anyone can use to communicate with greater confidence and impact.Key Takeaways:Clarity matters more than sounding native. Effective communication comes from making your message easy to understand, not eliminating your accent.Your accent is part of your identity. Multilingual communicators bring unique perspectives and strengths that should be embraced, not hidden.Activity:Focus on clarity. Record yourself explaining a familiar topic for one minute. Listen back and identify three words or phrases to emphasize and two places to pause. Record it again, focusing on clarity rather than sounding perfect, and compare the difference.Episode Reference Links:Peter Novak82. It's Not About You: Why Effective Communicators Put Others F… Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:52) - Accent Bias (03:55) - Accent and Identity (05:55) - Processing Fluency (08:25) - Clarity Over Perfection (10:26) - The Power of Prosody (15:33) - Speaking with Confidence (17:56) - The Final Three Questions (22:13) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.To see what Scribe could look like for your organization, head to scribe.how/thinkfast and mention Think Fast for your first month of Scribe Capture free.
If people leave your talk thinking, “She really knows her stuff,” that feels good. But it doesn't necessarily make you memorable, referable, or bookable.In this fourth and final episode of my Expert Trap series, I'm looking at three things you may be saying yes to (more content, neutrality, and the wrong room) and the identity questions underneath each one. I've done all three, and I still have to watch for them in my own presentations.You'll hear why your audience doesn't need everything you know, how a clear point of view helps your ideas travel, and how to choose speaking opportunities that make your thought leadership stronger instead of more generic. I'll also give you one practical exercise you can use right away: replacing one proof sentence with one belief sentence.In this episode, you'll learn:How too much content can become a way to prove you belongWhy staying neutral can make your message harder to rememberHow to know when a speaking opportunity is the wrong roomThe identity shift from expert to thought leaderWhy expertise builds trust, but your point of view makes you referable and bookableThe difference between a proof sentence and a belief sentenceAbout Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links:Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/481/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxRelated Podcast Episodes:Episodes 478-481: Expert Trap SeriesEpisode 463: The Connection Formula of Expertise + Story: Live Signature Talks from Thought Leader Academy GradsEpisode 458: Same Message, Different Medium: Why Your Talk Isn't Landing (and How to Fix It)
What if the biggest thing affecting your relationships, leadership, and communication isn't what you're saying...but how you're breathing?In this episode, Anne sits down with speaker, facilitator, and communication expert Hilary Blair (hilaryblairspeaks.com), creator of the Fruitful Friction® framework, to explore the surprising connection between breath, voice, trust, and human connection. Drawing from decades in theater and corporate leadership development, Hilary reveals why your voice is a giant "poker tell" and how small shifts in breath and awareness can dramatically change the way people experience you. If you've ever struggled with difficult conversations, workplace conflict, executive presence, or feeling truly heard, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.In This Episode, We Talk About: Why your voice communicates trust before you even speak the words How breath affects confidence, connection, and emotional regulation The difference between being vulnerable and being available Why "take a deep breath" may be terrible advice...and what to do instead How tone, vowels, consonants, and vocal habits influence relationships Want more from Hilary?HilaryBlairSpeaks.comArticulateRC.comHilary Blair is a dynamic speaker, facilitator and CEO of ARTiculate: Real&Clear. She's the creator of Fruitful Friction®, a framework redefining tension as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and trust. Blending her background as a professional actor with deep expertise in communication and executive presence, Hilary helps leaders stay in conversation when it matters most. Her work equips teams to engage authentically, communicate clearly, and use friction to gain traction for growth.Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.
I'm writing my next book! In this episode, I lay out all the details for why I'm taking a risk, where the book fits in the market, and just how much of a delusional project this might be.Then, listen to the empathy statement—a kind of prologue or "starter dough" writing which sets the tone and answers the question, "Why should I care?"Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter for book updates, exclusives, and behind-the-scenes, as well as the chance to submit your stories for inclusion!EPISODE CREDITS:Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo.Music for Why They Resonate is by Embleton (Instagram - Facebook).***ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZOI'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot.I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books.Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance.Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.comBook me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotesWatch video versions of some episodes, plus get regular insights into stronger public speaking and growing a speaking business, at youtube.com/jayacunzo***IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW:Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.
Today, I am joined by Sally Malanga, Founder of Boon for All. Boon for All is a plant-powered life-changing brand featuring her products: Plant-based Boon Broth and Boon Collagen Reviver. Sally is the voice in the inbox that inspires a second look, the strategist behind a better future, and the woman who can rebrand a wellness product, fire off a fiery town council email, and make you believe a baked potato can change your life. Sally is also a certified nutrition coach, Co-Founder of Our Green West Orange, and a Board Member of Friends of Animals. She is a public speaker on the joy of plant-based eating for health and the planet.To connect with Sally:https://www.instagram.com/boonforall/https://www.tiktok.com/@boonforallhttps://www.facebook.com/boon4all/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sally-malanga-0007916/Additionally, if you're interested in exploring the Main Street Vegan Academy, of which Sally and I are both graduates (and how we connected) visit the MSVA website at: https://mainstreetvegan.com/, there is a new cohort beginning this October. Mentioned in this episode:Upton Sinclair's The Jungle info: https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Jungle-novel-by-SinclairFoborg - vegan options in Montclair, NJ (not fully vegan) https://www.faubourgnj.com/montclair/menus Plant-based menu:https://static1.squarespace.com/static/65149890bf49c9090426e1b7/t/6a51511f8ec8c772ed19f2eb/1783714079449/FGM+PLANT+BASE+06-26-2026.pdf.pdf Veggie Heaven (multiple locations in NJ) https://www.veggieheavenmontclair.com/Friends of Animals: https://friendsofanimals.org/To connect with me:Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummusDYBTH merch now available! Check out the shop here: https://did-you-bring-the-hummus.myspreadshop.comFor more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivistsContact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.comSign up for meditation sessions hereSign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program hereJoin my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest©2026 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLCTheme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Fluent Fiction - Catalan: From Nerves to Applause: Marcel's Climactic Speech Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/ca/episode/2026-07-20-22-34-02-ca Story Transcript:Ca: El sol brillava intensament sobre Montjuïc aquell matí d'estiu.En: The sun shone intensely over Montjuïc that summer morning.Ca: L'aire era fresc i portava l'aroma del mar Mediterrani que es veia a la distància.En: The air was fresh and carried the aroma of the Mediterranean Sea that could be seen in the distance.Ca: Marcel, un polític jove i ambiciós, es trobava davant d'un gran repte.En: Marcel, a young and ambitious politician, faced a great challenge.Ca: Estava a punt de donar un discurs molt important en una cimera internacional sobre el canvi climàtic.En: He was about to deliver a very important speech at an international summit on climate change.Ca: Havia somiat amb aquest moment durant molts anys, però ara, amb el moment tan a prop, els nervis l'envaïen.En: He had dreamed of this moment for many years, but now, with the moment so near, nerves overcame him.Ca: Montjuïc estava ple de delegats de tot el món.En: Montjuïc was full of delegates from all over the world.Ca: Les banderes onejaven en l'aire, i un rum-rum constant de veus omplia l'atmosfera.En: Flags waved in the air, and a constant murmur of voices filled the atmosphere.Ca: Marcel sentia la pressió per fer un gran discurs, un discurs que no només impressionés als polítics, sinó que també inspirés acció real.En: Marcel felt the pressure to give a great speech, one that would not only impress politicians but also inspire real action.Ca: Però el camí no era fàcil.En: However, the path was not easy.Ca: Alguns companys polítics li demanaven concessions.En: Some fellow politicians were asking him for concessions.Ca: Els activistes, en canvi, exigien acció contundent.En: The activists, on the other hand, demanded strong action.Ca: Però era sobretot la seva por a parlar en públic el que l'aconseguia tenallat.En: But it was above all his fear of public speaking that kept him immobilized.Ca: Sentia el pes de les expectatives a les seves espatlles.En: He felt the weight of expectations on his shoulders.Ca: Aleshores va decidir fer una pausa.En: Then he decided to take a break.Ca: Va caminar fins a un racó més tranquil del parc i va trucar a Laia, la seva assistent de confiança.En: He walked to a quieter corner of the park and called Laia, his trusted assistant.Ca: "Necessito la teva ajuda", va admetre amb un sospir.En: "I need your help," he admitted with a sigh.Ca: La veu de Laia al telèfon el va calmar.En: Laia's voice on the phone calmed him.Ca: "Marcel, tu pots fer-ho", li va dir amb seguretat.En: "Marcel, you can do it," she told him with certainty.Ca: Junts, van treballar en el discurs, buscant l'equilibri entre la realitat política i els seus ideals.En: Together, they worked on the speech, seeking a balance between political reality and his ideals.Ca: Laia el va ajudar a practicar la seva entonació i gestos.En: Laia helped him practice his intonation and gestures.Ca: A poc a poc, Marcel va començar a sentir-se més segur.En: Gradually, Marcel began to feel more confident.Ca: Sabia què havia de fer.En: He knew what he had to do.Ca: L'hora del discurs va arribar.En: The time for the speech arrived.Ca: Marcel va pujar a l'escenari, mirant el vast públic que l'observava expectant.En: Marcel stepped onto the stage, looking at the vast audience that watched him expectantly.Ca: El cor li bategava amb força, però ara no era només per nervis, sinó també per determinació.En: His heart pounded fiercely, but now it was not just from nerves, but also from determination.Ca: Inspirant profundament, va començar a parlar.En: Taking a deep breath, he began to speak.Ca: Les seves paraules, plenes de passió i convicció, van ressonar en l'aire.En: His words, full of passion and conviction, resonated in the air.Ca: Va parlar de la necessitat urgent de protegir el planeta, de la importància de treballar junts abans que fos massa tard.En: He spoke of the urgent need to protect the planet, of the importance of working together before it was too late.Ca: A mesura que avançava, la seva por es va convertir en força.En: As he progressed, his fear turned into strength.Ca: La sala va quedar en silenci, atenta.En: The hall fell silent, attentive.Ca: Quan va acabar, un potent aplaudiment va omplir Montjuïc.En: When he finished, a powerful applause filled Montjuïc.Ca: L'havia aconseguit.En: He had done it.Ca: Havia trobat la seva veu i la confiança que necessitava.En: He had found his voice and the confidence he needed.Ca: Caminant fora de l'escenari, Marcel es va adonar que no només havia donat un discurs important.En: Walking off the stage, Marcel realized that he had not only given an important speech.Ca: Havia après el valor de la col·laboració sense perdre els seus principis.En: He had learned the value of collaboration without losing his principles.Ca: Mentre es dirigia cap a on era Laia, va veure el mar i va somriure.En: As he headed towards where Laia was, he saw the sea and smiled.Ca: El futur era incert, però estava preparat per continuar lluitant.En: The future was uncertain, but he was ready to continue fighting. Vocabulary Words:the air: l'airethe aroma: l'aromaambitious: ambiciós/ambiciosathe challenge: el reptethe speech: el discursthe summit: la cimerathe climate change: el canvi climàticnerves: nervisthe delegates: els delegatsthe flags: les banderesthe murmur: el rum-rumthe atmosphere: l'atmosferathe path: el camíthe concessions: les concessionsthe activists: els activistesthe break: la pausathe corner: el racóthe park: el parcthe assistant: l'assistentthe intonation: l'entonacióthe gestures: els gestosthe stage: l'escenariexpectantly: expectantthe audience: el públicthe determination: la determinacióto resonate: ressonarto protect: protegirto collaborate: col·laborarto fight: lluitarthe applause: l'aplaudiment
When you start asking questions like, “What’s the point?” And you wonder, “Who am I really?” and “What am I doing here?” That’s when you know that you are ready to begin a soul discovery journey. And today’s guest is Helen Plehn, who’s the founder of Helen Creates Beauty, and the award-winning author of “The Aura Color Wheel.” This Aura Color Wheel is a soul discovery system that helps people identify their life purpose through their soul aura color. Join us to find out more! Helen Plehn was born in China and raised in Hong Kong attending weekly mystical orchid tea ceremonies in the mountainside orchid garden. After moving to the U.S., Helen achieved PhD level education and a stable, highly successful profession in data analytics. Depression, severe anxiety and panic attacks set her on a journey of self discovery to find true fulfillment and happiness. Now, Helen is an intuitive painter, an angel channeler, a certified crystal healer, an aura reader, a certified yoga teacher and Theta healer. Helen is the creator, founder and award-winning author of the “Aura Color Wheel”, and hostess of the Aura Evolution Podcast. The founder of Helen Creates Beauty where she offers Psychic Readings, Public Speaking, Spiritual Coaching, a private Facebook group for Q&A and support and online courses by integrating systems such as Western and Vedic astrology, numerology, the Enneagram, Human Design, Gene Keys, and Feng Shui to help you find and live your purpose with clarity, joy, and fulfillment. Watch or listen to the show to learn how you can find your purpose and love with clarity, joy, and fulfillment. You’re Invited! READ: The Aura Color Wheel https://www.amazon.com/dp/1401995438?psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER Free Soul Aura Color Quiz https://helencreatesbeauty.pro.typeform.com/Soulauracolor Free Unlock Your Soul Purpose with the Aura Color Wheel Masterclass https://www.auracolorwheel.com/acwmasterclass Aura Color Wheel Book Purchase Bonuses https://download.helencreatesbeauty.com/book/ HELEN PLEHN BIO Helen Ye Plehn is the founder of Helen Creates Beauty and the award-winning author of The Aura Color Wheel, published by Hay House. She created the Aura Color Wheel™, a soul discovery system that helps people identify their life purpose through their Soul Aura Color. Helen is an intuitive painter, angel channeler, certified crystal healer, third-generation Feng Shui master, and Flamenco dancer. She is also the host of the Aura Evolution Podcast. Her mission is to help one million souls discover and live their purpose with joy and fulfillment. LINKS Website: www.helencreatesbeauty.com Aura Evolution Podcast: https://aura-evolution-podcast.captivate.fm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helencreatesbeauty Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helencreatesbeauty TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@helencreatesbeauty YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@auracolorwheel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenplehn/ YOUR GUIDE TO SOUL NECTAR: KERRI HUMMINGBIRD Kerri Hummingbird, Medicine Woman, Mother and Mentor, is the Founder of Inner Medicine Training, a Mystery School that shares potent ancient traditions from the Andes and Himalayas for owning your wisdom and living your purpose. She is the #1 international best-selling author of “Inner Medicine: Becoming One with Mother Earth for the Survival of Humanity”, “Love Is Fierce: Healing the Mother Wound”, “The Second Wave: Transcending the Human Drama” (on the int'l bestseller charts for over 6 years) and the award-winning best-selling book “Awakening To Me: One Woman's Journey To Self Love” which describes the early years of her spiritual awakening. As the host of Soul Nectar Show, Ms. Hummingbird inspires people to lead their lives wide awake with an authenticity, passion and purpose that positively impacts others. As a healer and mentor, she catalyzes mind-shifts that transform life challenges into gifts of wisdom. If you are wondering what the heck is going on, the answer is simple. We are in the process of a massive shift in consciousness that can most aptly be described as the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly. As a medicine woman, I guide you to the next deepest understanding and embodiment of yourself as a spiritual being. Whether you receive a shamanic healing session, participate in the Reinvent Yourself Training program, or join us for Inner Medicine Training, one thing is certain: you will connect more deeply with your true self and learn to navigate the changes in your life from an empowered space within. SCHEDULE A FREE DISCOVERY SESSION: https://tinyurl.com/SoulNectarChat JOIN SOUL NECTAR TRIBE! https://kerrihummingbird.com/membership In Soul Nectar Tribe, we are joining forces to influence a new conversation on the planet…one that respects and honors all of life and looks forward seven generations to ensure the consequences of our actions are what we choose to create for our descendents. When we join our sparks together in community and comraderie, we become a powerful beacon of light and hope. FREE GIFTS! 1. Receive the free Reinvent Yourself ebook and guided meditations at http://www.kerrihummingbird.com/gift 2. Receive the Second Wave Guided Meditation Pack for free at http://www.thesecondwave.media LINKS FOR KERRI HUMMINGBIRD Website: www.kerrihummingbird.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kerri.hummingbird.sami Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerri.hummingbird/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soulnectarshow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrihummingbird/
The Church Of The Souls Evolution with The Reverend Blake Rubie (Ordained Minister) From Army Roads to Soul Evolution: Service, Sacrifice, Reincarnation, and the Power of Prayer Spiritual Seeking, Public Speaking, and the Soul's Journey In this episode of The Church of the Soul's Evolution, host Reverend Blake Rubie opens by introducing the show as a place where he talks about spirituality and truth-seeking. He references his book The Grey Brain and the Golden Soul, explaining his belief that the physical brain relates to the body while the soul relates to the spirit. From there, he connects his radio work to public speaking, music, Toastmasters, and the value of learning to speak clearly and confidently over time. Toastmasters, Venezuela, and a Life of Service Reverend Blake reflects on his long relationship with Toastmasters and public speaking, tracing it back to his time in Cleveland and then into his Army assignment in Caracas, Venezuela. He describes serving in the military group there, improving his Spanish by speaking with local security guards, and remembering the poverty and gratitude he saw among Venezuelan people. He presents this period as both a professional and personal learning experience, shaped by language, faith, human connection, and awareness of economic hardship. Civilian Army Work, San Antonio, and a 44-Year Career The episode then follows Blake's transition from active-duty Army service into contractor and civilian work. He describes receiving a job opportunity through Rosemary and Tom Levitt, working under Army Installation Management Command, moving through contract changes involving Booz Allen Hamilton and Calibre, and eventually relocating to San Antonio when the organization moved from Crystal City, Virginia. He recounts working in operations, worldwide individual augmentation systems, and Army databases until his retirement, totaling almost 44 years of service connected to the Army. Family History, Immigration, Martial Arts, and Military Formation Blake looks back at his parents' lives, including his father's British Army service in World War II, his mother's experience during the bombing of London, their migration to Canada, and the family's later move to Guadalajara, Mexico. He then recounts his own early adulthood in San Diego, college studies, philosophy, martial arts, and work as a bellman before joining the Army in 1982. His military path includes infantry training, Germany, Fort Polk, Korea, Bowling Green State University ROTC, and the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, where he studied Turkish and led a competitive Army running team. Leadership, Language School, and Personal Achievement A major portion of the episode centers on Blake's pride in physical training, leadership, and military achievement. He describes leading a run team at Monterey, training hard, winning a large trophy five times, and recording a fast team time. He then discusses his Turkish language studies, passing the Defense Language Proficiency Test, attending the basic non-commissioned officer course at Fort Benjamin Harrison, and winning the honor graduate, distinguished leader, and Iron Man awards. These stories emphasize discipline, competitiveness, perseverance, and the pride his parents felt in his accomplishments. Kidney Donation, His Son's Trials, and the Gift of Life The most personal section concerns Blake's son, who was born with underdeveloped kidneys and eventually needed dialysis and transplantation. Blake explains that he received a compassionate reassignment, moved to the Presidio of San Francisco, and donated one of his kidneys to his son at Stanford University Children's Hospital in March 1995. He describes the physical effects of that old-style surgery, the scar, later disability issues, and the lifestyle changes it required. He strongly encourages kidney donation as a gift of life while also urging people to research how it may change them, and he mentions his son's book Finding Faith Through Dialysis as a resource for people facing similar trials. Reincarnation, Prayer, Afterlife Beliefs, and the Creator The final portion turns fully toward Reverend Blake's spiritual teachings. He presents his belief that human beings are co-creator gods in the making, moving through reincarnation across planets and lives toward eventual spiritual creation and union. He rejects eternal damnation, describing hell as temporary spiritual rehabilitation, and speaks intensely about suicide, prayer for souls, universal law, and the power of praying for others. The episode closes with Blake teaching that “a man will prey on man until man learns to pray for man,” then offering a prayer directly to the Creator of the universe, asking for blessing, help, love, and divine will for all children of Earth.
Get your hand-picked playbook here: https://www.figuringout.co/link/fo-537Guest Suggestion Form: https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.(00:00) - Intro(02:37) - Childhood, Family Values & Father's Life Lesson on Merit(07:41) - Rejected by Breweries for Being a Woman(12:29) - Gender Bias in Funding & Starting Biocon Against All Odds(27:08) - The Art of Pitching: Telling Your Story Right(29:57) - From Enzymes to Pharma: Cracking Statins(31:15) - The Insulin Breakthrough That Disrupted Global Pricing(34:18) - Entering Cancer Biosimilars After Losing a Friend(40:29) - Why Being First (Not Just Best) Matters(43:52) - Building Affordable CAR-T Cancer Therapy (Immuneel)(45:46) - The GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drug Debate(53:13) - How Pharma Pricing & Margins Actually Work(58:20) - A Near-Financial Crisis: The Loan Default Scare(1:03:45) - How Can People Who Have Self-Doubt Build Confidence?(1:07:13) - Why India Undervalues Innovation vs. the US(1:13:51) - The AI Pathology Startup India Let Slip Away(1:20:50) - Proving Global Pharma Giants Wrong(1:26:43) - Bengaluru's Infrastructure & Civic Problems(1:30:14) - India's Civic Sense Crisis(1:35:44) - Why India Is Losing FDI to Vietnam & Indonesia(1:38:03) - Has She Ever Felt Humiliated?(1:41:58) - The Harshest Truth: Gender Bias in India(1:50:51) - Big Pharma Ethics & COVID Vaccine Inequality(1:55:52) - Choosing Her Successor: Niece Claire Mazumdar(1:58:54) - The Power of Authentic Networking & Friendships(2:02:47) - Separating Her Identity From Biocon(2:04:52) - One Advice No One Should Follow(2:06:03) - OutroIn today's episode, we sit down with Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon Limited, to talk about rejection, risk, and how she built India's biggest biotech company from a garage.Follow Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiranmazumdar_shaw/About Raj ShamaniRaj Shamani is an Entrepreneur at heart that explains his expertise in Business Content Creation & Public Speaking. He has delivered 200+ speeches in 26+ countries. Besides that, Raj is also an Angel Investor interested in crazy minds who are creating a sensation in the Fintech, FMCG, & passion economy space.To Know More,Follow Raj Shamani On ⤵︎Instagram @RajShamani https://www.instagram.com/rajshamani/Twitter @RajShamani https://twitter.com/rajshamaniFacebook @ShamaniRaj https://www.facebook.com/shamanirajLinkedIn - Raj Shamani https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshamani/About Figuring OutFiguring Out Podcast is a Candid Conversations University where Raj Shamani brings raw conversations with the Top 1% in India.
"What if I didn't let it stop me? What if I just push past it?"Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this Alumni Spotlight episode, Dan Irvin sits down with Speaker Lab alumni Jennifer Ryan — a speaker who just hit a real turning point. She finished her book, Be the Donkey, Not the Jackass, she's ready to take it on the road, and she's built a talk that is unmistakably her own.Jennifer's message starts with fear — the greatest motivator and the greatest deterrent to everything. It began with a movie, sparked a "year of yes" where she said yes to literally everything, and led her to a horse and dog rescue where two donkeys handed her the metaphor that became her book. Along the way she learned what it takes to write something deeply vulnerable, rebuild a talk after rereading her own book exposed the gaps, and differentiate herself in a world where "a million people speak about yes."But this conversation doesn't stay in theory. Jennifer and Dan get honest about the hard stuff: the conference that suddenly had no space for her (and no explanation why), the self-doubt train that follows silence, and the moment she realized her talks were entertaining people without actually moving them to act. Her fix — be prescriptive, give your audience exactly what to do next Monday — is a masterclass in building talks that create change instead of just applause.You'll learn:Why fear is both the greatest motivator and the greatest deterrentHow a "year of yes" can completely change your trajectoryHow to find your signature story in unexpected placesWhy writing a book is a "humbling" exercise in vulnerabilityHow rereading your own book reveals the gaps in your talkHow to differentiate yourself when your topic is "already taken"What to do when a reliable speaking avenue suddenly closesHow to handle negative feedback (and why the 2% matters)The difference between entertaining an audience and moving them to actWhy prescriptive next steps are what turn talks into transformationAnd much, much more!"A talk has done its job the moment one person decides to try something new."What's the question that flips the switch on your fear? Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and turn "what if" into your next step.Episode Resources:Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentJennifer Ryan's WebsiteCalculate Your Speaking FeeSubscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Checkout ASUS ExpertBook P Series: https://www.flipkart.com/asus-expertbook-core-ultra-storeGet your hand-picked playbook here: https://www.figuringout.co/pdf/fo-536Guest Suggestion Form: https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.Order 'Build, Don't Talk' (in English) here: https://amzn.eu/d/eCfijRuOrder 'Build Don't Talk' (in Hindi) here: https://amzn.eu/d/4wZISO0Follow Our Whatsapp Channel: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaokF5x0bIdi3Qn9ef2J(00:00) - Intro(03:35) - What Is Rocket Science?(12:21) - How Does the Human Body Feel in Zero Gravity?(21:20) - Is Urine Really Recycled in Space?(26:36) - Did He Take Indian Food to Space?(29:30) - How Do Astronauts Sleep in Space?(33:47) - Why Do Astronauts Breathe Pure Oxygen Before a Spacewalk?(44:16) - Which Country Has the Most Advanced Space Program?(46:58) - How Can a Small-Town Kid Become an Astronaut?(57:45) - The Letter He Wrote to Himself at 14(1:01:53) - His Journey From NDA to Fighter Pilot(1:06:43) - Sitting in a Fighter Jet for the First Time(1:09:43) - The Craziest Thing He's Done in a Fighter Jet(1:13:16) - The World's Best Fighter Jets(1:19:12) - How Did He Become a Test Pilot?(1:24:01) - Why He Decided to Become an Astronaut(1:27:43) - The Astronaut Selection Process Explained(1:35:47) - The Letter He Wrote to His 14-Year-Old Self(1:37:47) - One Piece of Advice Nobody Should Follow(1:40:58) - Behind the Scenes(1:42:06) - OutroIn today's episode, we sit down with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla IAF test pilot, Gaganyaan astronaut, and the first Indian to reach the International Space Station for one of the most extraordinary conversations we have ever had.About Raj ShamaniRaj Shamani is an Entrepreneur at heart that explains his expertise in Business Content Creation & Public Speaking. He has delivered 200+ speeches in 26+ countries. Besides that, Raj is also an Angel Investor interested in crazy minds who are creating a sensation in the Fintech, FMCG, & passion economy space.To Know More,Follow Raj Shamani On ⤵︎Instagram @RajShamani https://www.instagram.com/rajshamani/Twitter @RajShamani https://twitter.com/rajshamaniFacebook @ShamaniRaj https://www.facebook.com/shamanirajLinkedIn - Raj Shamani https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshamani/About Figuring OutFiguring Out Podcast is a Candid Conversations University where Raj Shamani brings raw conversations with the Top 1% in India.
Today, I'm joined by Andrew Sykes, founder of Habits at Work, professor of executive education at the Kellogg School of Management, author, leadership expert, and global speaker who has spent his career helping leaders build trust, communicate with influence, and create lasting impact. In this episode, Andrew and I explore what truly separates great communicators from everyone else. We discuss why trust is the foundation of effective communication, why listening goes far beyond simply hearing words, and how storytelling helps leaders inspire action rather than simply share information. Whether you're leading a team, presenting ideas, managing relationships, or simply trying to become a better communicator, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can apply immediately. Let's dive in. Additional Resources: ► Follow Communispond on LinkedIn for more communication skills tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/communispond ► Connect with Scott D'Amico on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottdamico/ ► Connect with Andrew on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewsykes1/ ► Learn more about Habits at Work: https://www.habitsatwork.com/ ► Subscribe to Communicast: https://communicast.simplecast.com/ ► Learn more about Communispond: https://www.communispond.com
Download Porter Here: https://app.adjust.com/221dq7q6Get your hand-picked playbook here: https://www.figuringout.co/pdf/fo-535Guest Suggestion Form: https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.(00:00) - Intro(03:24) - The Rise of Indian Women(05:44) - Why India's Middle Class Is Drowning in Debt(16:35) - Who Really Belongs to India's Middle Class?(20:41) - Only 2 Crore Indians Pay Income Tax — Who Funds India?(25:23) - Why White-Collar Jobs Are Disappearing(30:37) - The Industrialization of Aspiration(34:39) - The Skinner Box Theory: Why Indians Get Addicted to UPSC & Government Exams(43:43) - Shocking Azim Premji University Graduate Employment Data(45:50) - Is Luxury Unemployment Real?(54:29) - Why Successful People Don't Chase Fancy Job Titles(1:01:47) - Why Global Brands Partner With Local Influencers(1:06:17) - How the UK and US Lost Their Middle Class(1:11:13) - Why AI Is Replacing India's Outsourcing Jobs(1:15:32) - How Japan Escaped the Middle-Class Trap(1:19:55) - Should Young People Still Go to College?(1:21:55) - One of the Craziest Insights From His Book(1:28:33) - 5 Biggest Business Opportunities in the AI Economy(1:39:16) - India vs China vs America: Who Will Lead the Next 20 Years?(1:46:09) - Why Doing Business in India Is So Hard(1:52:08) - OutroIn today's episode, we sit down with Saurabh Mukherjea, Author and Founder of Marcellus Investment Managers, to talk about careers, wealth, and why the old middle-class playbook no longer works.About Raj ShamaniRaj Shamani is an Entrepreneur at heart that explains his expertise in Business Content Creation & Public Speaking. He has delivered 200+ speeches in 26+ countries. Besides that, Raj is also an Angel Investor interested in crazy minds who are creating a sensation in the Fintech, FMCG, & passion economy space.To Know More,Follow Raj Shamani On ⤵︎Instagram @RajShamani https://www.instagram.com/rajshamani/Twitter @RajShamani https://twitter.com/rajshamaniFacebook @ShamaniRaj https://www.facebook.com/shamanirajLinkedIn - Raj Shamani https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshamani/About Figuring OutFiguring Out Podcast is a Candid Conversations University where Raj Shamani brings raw conversations with the Top 1% in India.
In this episode, Rachel Axelrod, Speaker Coach, Event Producer, Attorney, Axelrod Consulting Chicago, shares practical strategies for becoming a more engaging speaker, from using storytelling to simplifying complex messages and connecting with audiences.
"People aren't inside of our heads, so you have to give them that emotional information as well as the factual information."Humor is more than entertainment—it's a powerful way to create connection. As a comedian, writer, and former teacher, Chris Duffy has learned that laughter, curiosity, and emotion can transform even ordinary conversations into memorable experiences. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Duffy joins Matt Abrahams to explore how humor can strengthen communication, build deeper connections, and make ideas more memorable. Together, they discuss how to engage an audience, bring authenticity to repeated messages, and create conversations that invite others to participate rather than simply listen.Key Takeaways:Connection comes before comedy. Humor is most effective when it invites others into the conversation, rather than putting the spotlight on yourself.Emotion makes ideas memorable. Combining facts with curiosity, emotion, and storytelling helps audiences understand, remember, and engage with your message.Activity:Create a conversational doorknob. In your next conversation, replace one routine response with an observation, opinion, or question that invites discussion. Notice how offering a "doorknob" changes the depth and energy of the conversation.Episode Reference Links:Chris DuffyChris's Book: Humor MeEp.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your … Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:03) - Lessons from the Classroom (01:52) - Curiosity Captures Attention (04:48) - Facts Need Emotion (05:49) - Sounding Authentic (09:29) - Calming Performance Nerves (11:01) - Jamming vs. Joking (14:36) - Becoming Funnier (19:01) - Better Conversations (22:53) - The Final Three Questions (26:48) - Conclusion
If you love facilitating workshops and trainings, but you know there's something more you want to say, this episode is for you.My guest is Corrin McCloskey, a healthcare executive, speaker, writer, and facilitator who has made the leap from being a fabulous facilitator into a true thought leader. Corrin joined us in Thought Leader Academy in January 2025, and in the year and a half since then, she has spoken at multiple national conferences, published writing in her field, and continued building momentum around her message: healthcare needs more human-centered, connected, and courageous leadership.This conversation is part of our Expert Trap series because Corrin's story is such a powerful example of what happens when you move beyond simply teaching helpful content and start naming what's missing in the conversation.We talk about:How Corrin shifted from facilitating strategic planning and leadership workshops to speaking on bigger stagesWhy thought leadership is less about having all the answers and more about sharing a clear perspectiveThe role of writing in expanding your ideas beyond a single talkHow to keep putting your work out there, even when it doesn't feel perfectWhat Corrin learned from both deeply affirming audience feedback and a painful experience of harassment after a speaking engagementWhy having a support system matters when you're using your voice more publiclyWhat I love about Corrin's journey is that she didn't abandon facilitation. She built on it. She took the skills she already had, added her lived experience and perspective, and stepped into a bigger conversation.That's the real invitation of thought leadership: to stop hiding behind expertise alone and start using your voice for the change you want to see.About Our Guest: Corrin McCloskey is a healthcare executive, executive coach, and national speaker focused on leadership, culture, and change management in healthcare. She serves as Vice President of Heart & Vascular and Oncology Services at Tanner Health, where she leads strategy, growth, and service line development. Passionate about helping leaders build trust and navigate complexity, Corrin frequently speaks on physician leadership, organizational culture, and leading change in healthcare. Over the past year, she has expanded her national speaking presence and contributed thought leadership focused on creating healthier, more sustainable healthcare systems.About Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links:Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/480/ Corrin's website: https://corrinmccloskey.com/ Watch Corrin deliver her signature talk on our live show: https://www.youtube.com/live/rhDAdGR44-g?si=MulG_sPQ0-MmpLK4 Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect on LinkedIn:Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxCorrin McCloskey (guest) = https://www.linkedin.com/in/corrinmccloskey/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 478: The Expert Trap: Why Great Speakers Don't Become Thought LeadersEpisode 391: Claiming Your Identity as a Speaker and Thought Leader
Want to know how to book a TEDx Talk? Listen in on a conversation with speaking coach Megan Hamilton — who's been the speaker advisor at the second largest TEDx in Canada for 12+ years and has coached TEDx talks around the world — to break down exactly how to book a TEDx talk, even if you've never set foot on a stage before.We're covering everything from what the TEDx organizers are scanning for when they pick speakers (hint: it's not your business pitch), to why 'selling from the stage' is majorly against the TED rules (and a BETTER way to leverage your talk to grow your business).Dreaming of being a keynote speaker? Tap play because in this episode, we get into:3 steps to take right now if you're dreaming about speaking on a TEDx stage some dayWhat TEDx organizers look for when they choose speakers (and why "I want to grow my business" is the wrong energy to bring)The TEDx audition process Rules that get your entire talk rejected from the TEDx YouTube channelHow to start building relationships with TEDx organizers near you, before you're anywhere near ready to auditionStrategies for leveraging a TEDx talk into bigger stages, press, and business opportunitiesGET MEGAN'S TEDx BUCKET LIST CHECKLIST (it's free!): https://www.impactwitch.com/tedx-bucket-list-checklist The takeaway: Booking a TEDx talk isn't about waiting to get discovered — it's about treating it like any other visibility strategy: relationship-building, positioning, and being ready when the door opens. Megan lays out exactly where to start, today, even if your talk is still just a spark of an idea.If content and visibility are part of your growth plan (they should be), grab my free Instagram training: https://www.videoask.com/f7xjzo38p New to the show? Welcome — hit subscribe so you never miss an episode, and go binge the back catalog while you're at it. There's a lot of good stuff in there.
Fluent Fiction - Danish: From Fear to Triumph: A Day of Friendship at Skagen Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2026-07-13-07-38-19-da Story Transcript:Da: Sommerens sol varmer Skagens sandklitter.En: The summer sun warmed the Skagen sand dunes.Da: Mathias og Katrine gik mod den gamle fyr, hvor middagsbrisen blødt kærtegnede deres kinder.En: Mathias and Katrine walked toward the old lighthouse, where the midday breeze softly caressed their cheeks.Da: De var på skoleferie med klassen og boede i en hyggelig hostel tæt ved stranden.En: They were on a school holiday with the class and staying at a cozy hostel close to the beach.Da: Mathias var opsat på at levere en perfekt præsentation.En: Mathias was determined to deliver a perfect presentation.Da: Hans hjerte slog hurtigt ved tanken om at stå foran klassen.En: His heart beat quickly at the thought of standing in front of the class.Da: "Jeg håber, jeg kan huske alt," sagde han stille til sig selv.En: "I hope I can remember everything," he quietly said to himself.Da: Katrine, der gik ved hans side, var meget anderledes.En: Katrine, walking by his side, was very different.Da: Hun smilede og nynnede en lille melodi.En: She smiled and hummed a little tune.Da: "Bare slap af, Mathias.En: "Just relax, Mathias.Da: Vi skal nok klare det!"En: We'll manage!"Da: Skagen var smuk om sommeren.En: Skagen was beautiful in the summer.Da: Solen reflekterede i det blå havvand, og mågerne skreg over dem, som om de også heppede på de to venner.En: The sun reflected on the blue sea water, and the seagulls screamed above them as if they were cheering for the two friends.Da: Dagen nærmede sig, og Mathias blev mere nervøs.En: The day approached, and Mathias became more nervous.Da: "Hvad hvis jeg glemmer noget?En: "What if I forget something?Da: Hvad hvis jeg ikke kan få det sagt rigtigt?"En: What if I can't say it right?"Da: spurgte han bekymret.En: he asked worriedly.Da: "Katrine, vil du hjælpe mig?"En: "Katrine, will you help me?"Da: spurgte han pludselig.En: he suddenly asked.Da: Hun nikkede med det samme.En: She nodded immediately.Da: "Selvfølgelig!En: "Of course!Da: Jeg kan hjælpe dig med at gøre det sjovt."En: I can help you make it fun."Da: De arbejdede sammen i mange timer, Katrine tilføjede kreative idéer og små jokes.En: They worked together for many hours, with Katrine adding creative ideas and little jokes.Da: Mathias lyttede og begyndte at slappe af.En: Mathias listened and began to relax.Da: Sammen blev præsentationen til noget specielt.En: Together, the presentation turned into something special.Da: Det blev endelig dagen.En: The day finally came.Da: De stod foran klassen med spænding i luften.En: They stood in front of the class with excitement in the air.Da: "Vi kan gøre det," sagde Mathias til sig selv.En: "We can do it," Mathias said to himself.Da: Midt i præsentationen, skete der noget uventet.En: In the middle of the presentation, something unexpected happened.Da: Projektoren gik i stykker.En: The projector broke down.Da: Mathias stoppede op, hans hjerte sank.En: Mathias stopped, his heart sank.Da: Rummet blev stille.En: The room became silent.Da: Katrine tog hurtigt over.En: Katrine quickly took over.Da: Hun skulle ikke bruge projektoren for at engagere deres klassekammerater.En: She didn't need the projector to engage their classmates.Da: Hun begyndte at mime og skabte et sjovt lille teaterstykke.En: She started miming and created a funny little theater piece.Da: Klassen lo, og Mathias så muligheden.En: The class laughed, and Mathias saw the opportunity.Da: Han fortsatte med talen uden at tøve.En: He continued with the speech without hesitation.Da: Med Katrines charme og Mathias' detaljer blev præsentationen en succes.En: With Katrine's charm and Mathias's details, the presentation was a success.Da: Efterfølgende, mens de gik tilbage til hostelet, smilede Mathias.En: Afterward, as they walked back to the hostel, Mathias smiled.Da: "Det gik virkelig godt!En: "It went really well!Da: Tak, Katrine."En: Thank you, Katrine."Da: "Det var en fornøjelse, Mathias.En: "It was a pleasure, Mathias.Da: Du gjorde det uden hjælp til sidst."En: You did it without help in the end."Da: Mathias lærte noget vigtigt den dag.En: Mathias learned something important that day.Da: Han forstod, at det er okay at lave fejl, og at samarbejde kan føre til noget bedre.En: He understood that it's okay to make mistakes, and that collaboration can lead to something better.Da: Blandt Skagens sand og bølger lærte Mathias at tro på sig selv og værdsætte sin ven.En: Among Skagen's sand and waves, Mathias learned to believe in himself and appreciate his friend. Vocabulary Words:dunes: sandklitterlighthouse: fyrbreeze: brisecaressed: kærtegnededetermined: opsatpresentation: præsentationhummed: nynnedereflected: reflekteredeseagulls: mågerneapproached: nærmede sigworriedly: bekymretimmediately: med det sammecreative: kreativeunexpected: uventetprojector: projektormiming: mimehesitation: tøvecharm: charmesuccess: succesafterward: efterfølgendepleasure: fornøjelsecollaboration: samarbejdeappreciate: værdsættecheeks: kinderheart: hjerteexcite: spændingengage: engagereopportunity: mulighedbelieve: tromistake: fejl
In this episode, Rachel Axelrod, Speaker Coach, Event Producer, Attorney, Axelrod Consulting Chicago, shares practical strategies for becoming a more engaging speaker, from using storytelling to simplifying complex messages and connecting with audiences.
Fluent Fiction - Mandarin Chinese: Mei's Triumph: From Stage Fright to Fossil Stories Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/zh/episode/2026-07-11-07-38-19-zh Story Transcript:Zh: 烈日当头,正值炎炎夏季的一个清晨,自然历史博物馆已是熙熙攘攘,人群匆匆。En: Under the scorching sun, on a morning in the blazing summer, the Natural History Museum was already bustling with people hurrying about.Zh: 博物馆高耸的穹顶下,悬挂着巨大的恐龙骨架,仿佛随时会活过来,继续它们悠久的旅程。En: Under the towering dome of the museum hung a gigantic dinosaur skeleton, as if it might come to life at any moment to continue its ancient journey.Zh: 梅是一位细心而充满热情的策展人。En: Mei was a meticulous and passionate curator.Zh: 今天,她要在这里主持一场关于新恐龙展览的演讲。En: Today, she was set to host a lecture about a new dinosaur exhibit.Zh: 梅非常渴望能在这次活动中得到大家的认可,因为她希望能在不久的将来得到升职。En: Mei was eager to gain recognition during this event because she hoped to be promoted in the near future.Zh: 然而,梅一直为她的舞台恐惧症所困扰。En: However, Mei had always been troubled by her stage fright.Zh: 每当面对观众,她总是变得紧张不已,更何况还有一个同事梁,他演讲技巧高超,博得了很多观众的喜爱。En: Whenever she faced an audience, she would become extremely nervous, especially when compared to her colleague Liang, whose excellent speaking skills had won much audience favor.Zh: 为了让自己的演讲更吸引人,梅决定加入一些互动环节,虽然这对她来说超出了她的舒适圈。En: To make her presentation more engaging, Mei decided to incorporate interactive elements, although this was stepping out of her comfort zone.Zh: 演讲开始时,阳光透过大窗户洒在大理石地面上,形成了精美的图案。En: As the lecture began, sunlight spilled through the large windows onto the marble floor, forming exquisite patterns.Zh: 梅小心翼翼地开始讲解恐龙的进化史,观众也被她的细致描述吸引着。En: Mei cautiously started to explain the evolutionary history of dinosaurs, and the audience was captivated by her detailed descriptions.Zh: 就在此时,技术故障突然打断了梅的演讲。En: Just then, a technical glitch abruptly interrupted Mei's presentation.Zh: 屏幕黯然失色,展示的幻灯片不再播放。En: The screen went dim, and the slides stopped displaying.Zh: 梅的心跳瞬间加快,她可以感受到所有人的目光齐刷刷地投向了她。En: Her heartbeat instantly quickened, and she could feel all eyes on her.Zh: 此时,一个选择摆在她面前:是继续依靠完美的计划,还是即兴发挥,以她的方式去讲述这些古老化石背后的故事?En: At that moment, she faced a choice: to continue relying on a perfect plan, or to improvise and tell the stories behind these ancient fossils in her own way.Zh: 梅深吸一口气,决定尝试即兴发挥。En: Mei took a deep breath and decided to try improvising.Zh: 她开始分享她与这些化石首次相遇的个人经历,她如何第一次在考古现场挖掘化石的兴奋,以及与同事君在夜灯下讨论化石的记忆。En: She began to share personal experiences of her first encounters with these fossils, the thrill of unearthing fossils at an archaeological site for the first time, and the memories of discussing fossils under lamp light with her colleague Jun.Zh: 观众被梅的真诚与热情打动了,纷纷报以热烈的掌声。En: The audience was moved by Mei's sincerity and passion, responding with warm applause.Zh: 在这短暂的故事中,梅战胜了自己的恐惧。En: In this brief story, Mei overcame her fears.Zh: 她意识到,自己对自然历史的真心热爱远比无瑕的演讲技巧更能打动人心。En: She realized that her genuine love for natural history was far more compelling than flawless speaking skills.Zh: 尽管她没有按照原定计划来完成演讲,但她的表现却是无比真实和动人。En: Although she did not complete the lecture as planned, her performance was truly genuine and moving.Zh: 演讲结束后,梅走下讲台,心中满是自信。En: After the lecture ended, Mei stepped down from the podium, filled with confidence.Zh: 她明白,真实的热情才是成功的关键。En: She understood that true passion is the key to success.Zh: 在博物馆的阳光下,她微笑着拥抱了这一切,并相信自己的未来会一片光明。En: Under the sunlight of the museum, she embraced it all with a smile, believing that her future would be bright. Vocabulary Words:scorching: 烈日当头bustling: 熙熙攘攘towering: 高耸dome: 穹顶gigantic: 巨大的skeleton: 骨架meticulous: 细心curator: 策展人recognition: 认可stage fright: 舞台恐惧症nervous: 紧张compare: 比较engaging: 吸引人interactive: 互动comfort zone: 舒适圈exquisite: 精美captivated: 吸引glitch: 故障improvise: 即兴发挥unearthed: 挖掘archaeological: 考古encounter: 相遇sincerity: 真诚genuine: 真实flawless: 无瑕podium: 讲台confidence: 自信embraced: 拥抱fossils: 化石thrill: 兴奋
Checkout ASUS ExpertBook P Series: https://www.flipkart.com/asus-expertbook-core-ultra-storeGet your hand-picked playbook here: https://www.figuringout.co/pdf/fo-534Guest Suggestion Form: https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.Order 'Build, Don't Talk' (in English) here: https://amzn.eu/d/eCfijRuOrder 'Build Don't Talk' (in Hindi) here: https://amzn.eu/d/4wZISO0Follow Our Whatsapp Channel: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaokF5x0bIdi3Qn9ef2J(00:00) - Intro(03:45) - Who Is Dr. V. Mohan?(05:37) - What Is Diabetes & Why Is It So Hard to Control?(11:31) - Why Are Indians More Prone to Diabetes?(18:47) - Who Is More Likely to Get Diabetes: A Thin Indian or an Obese American?(24:51) - Plant Protein vs Animal Protein: What's the Difference?(27:25) - Early Signs and Symptoms of Prediabetes(29:33) - Type 1 vs Type 2 Diabetes Explained(33:41) - Can Type 2 Diabetes Be Reversed in 90 Days?(36:27) - Is Alzheimer's Disease Type 3 Diabetes?(50:06) - Brain Fog vs Dementia: How to Tell the Difference(53:28) - Which Organs Does Diabetes Damage First?(1:18:08) - Why Wounds Heal Slowly in People With Diabetes(1:20:51) - Best Sugar Substitutes Ranked(1:33:40) - Top 3 Healthy Breakfasts for Indians(1:45:55) - How Dr. Mohan Saved a 3-Month-Old Baby From 17,000 Injections(2:01:36) - Top 3 Takeaways From This Episode(2:04:31) - OutroIn today's episode, we sit down with Dr. V Mohan - Chairman, Dr. Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre & Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, Chennai, India's leading diabetologist, a researcher with over 800 publications, and the man behind Mohan's Criteria, a diagnostic framework used by doctors worldwide. About Raj ShamaniRaj Shamani is an Entrepreneur at heart that explains his expertise in Business Content Creation & Public Speaking. He has delivered 200+ speeches in 26+ countries. Besides that, Raj is also an Angel Investor interested in crazy minds who are creating a sensation in the Fintech, FMCG, & passion economy space.To Know More,Follow Raj Shamani On ⤵︎Instagram @RajShamani https://www.instagram.com/rajshamani/Twitter @RajShamani https://twitter.com/rajshamaniFacebook @ShamaniRaj https://www.facebook.com/shamanirajLinkedIn - Raj Shamani https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshamani/About Figuring OutFiguring Out Podcast is a Candid Conversations University where Raj Shamani brings raw conversations with the Top 1% in India.
In this episode, Seth Godin takes us into how he thinks about storytelling and the intersection of strategy and story, and then we hear him dissect one of his go-to stories. Plus, Seth and I trade stories in the back half of the episode—business storytelling nerdery on full display.Seth is a world-renowned author, speaker, and thought leader who has written more than 20 bestsellers, including Purple Cow, The Practice, and This Is Marketing. At the time of this recording, Seth was focused on promoting This is Strategy.Together, Seth and I discuss his delightful story about recumbent bikes. This "super-story" has found its way into Seth's work repeatedly for over a decade. We discuss the evolution of this story, how he conceptualizes status and affiliation, and why focusing on pedagogy as a storyteller is essential. Also in the episode: why the idea of your "posture" matters for storytellers, the role of the storyteller in the world today, and why smaller stories often have a bigger impact.Learn more about Seth's work and subscribe to his daily blog at seths.blogEPISODE CREDITS:Written and produced by me, Jay Acunzo. For more, subscribe to my newsletter→Production support for the original edit by Ilana Nevins.Music for Why They Resonate is by Embleton (Instagram - Facebook).***ABOUT ME, JAY ACUNZOI'm a public speaking and storytelling advisor trusted by bestselling authors, TED speakers, seven-figure coaches, and brands like Mailchimp, Wistia, and Salesforce. Before starting my advisory firm (where I work 1:1 with clients and run group programs), I was a digital media strategist at Google and head of content for 3 organizations, including HubSpot.I've given keynotes across the US and several other countries to marketers and managers, designers and dentists, leaders and landscapers, and my journey as a speaker has been featured in 3 different books.Today, I teach business leaders how to communicate with greater clarity, influence, and resonance.Learn more about my advisory work at jayacunzo.comBook me to speak at jayacunzo.com/keynotesWatch video versions of some episodes, plus get regular insights into stronger public speaking and growing a speaking business, at youtube.com/jayacunzo***IF YOU ENJOY THE SHOW:Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Leave a rating on Spotify Thanks for your support! Keep making what matters.
"When you're late, you tell people you don't care. I didn't agree with it at the moment. But then I started really just disciplining myself. And it is hard work for me every single day to be early."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this Alumni Spotlight episode, host Dan Irvin brings on Michael Hidalgo — a keynote speaker who helps teams actually talk to each other. His core idea is deceptively simple: words are vehicles, and what the receiver unpacks may not be what you loaded them up with. But what makes this episode fire is the business side of Michael's story — and the habits that are fueling a serious run right now.Start with the headline: Michael just landed his highest-paid gig yet off a single email. Except it wasn't really a single email. He did the homework — researched the organization, understood the need, sent a tailored pitch — and then heard nothing for two months. Instead of chasing with "did you get my email?", he followed up twice by adding value: an article relevant to their challenge, a lesson he learned from a client. Seventy-three days later, the planner wrote back with four words: "Are you still available?" Booked on the spot — and now they want his consulting, too.Then there's the keynote that produced six hot leads. Michael put a Calendly QR code on his final slide with a $50-value team assessment offer. By the time he walked off stage, four CEOs had already booked calls. He stayed for dinner with another contact who introduced him to two more executives. Two proposals went out that week. And every one of those consulting opportunities came from the speaking — the keynote was the tip of the spear.Whether you're figuring out how to follow up without being annoying or wondering what separates speakers who get rebooked from speakers who get forgotten, this one is a masterclass in the business behind the business!You'll learn:Why Michael's biggest booking came 73 days after his initial pitch — and what he did in the silence that made it happenHow to follow up with event planners by adding value instead of asking "did you get my email?"The QR code + free assessment strategy that generated six hot leads from a single keynoteWhy speaking is the tip of the spear for consulting revenue — and how to build that pipeline from stageWhat "be fun and easy to work with" actually looks like in practice (hint: show up early and set up chairs)The pre-talk ritual Michael never skips: handwriting an abbreviated outline, connecting with the tech team, checking in with the planner, and glide-handing the roomHow to pivot mid-call when an event planner says "this isn't what we want" — without getting defensive or losing the gigWhy the two magic phrases "tell me more about that" and "help me understand" buy you time and keep conversations aliveThe difference between value addition and value extraction — and why givers get rememberedWhy the gig is actually won before you ever send the first emailAnd much, much more!"How can I leave someone with something that is going to make them either personally or professionally better? How can I give something to them? I promise you that will pay dividends."Give more than you take? That's the whole business plan. Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and build a system that turns generosity into bookings.Episode Resources:Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentMichael Hidalgo's WebsiteCalculate Your Speaking Fee Subscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
"If all you're trying to do is inform, you're not going to pull it off. You have to entertain your audience."Great presentations don't just share information—they create connection. As Apple's former Chief Evangelist and Canva's co-founder, Guy Kawasaki has spent decades helping people communicate ideas that inspire action. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Kawasaki joins Matt Abrahams to share practical strategies for crafting compelling presentations, building better slide decks, and using storytelling to keep audiences engaged. From investor pitches to keynote speeches, he explains why the best communicators don't just inform—they captivate.Key Takeaways:Pitch to keep the conversation going. The goal of a pitch isn't to close the deal—it's to earn the next conversation.Keep it simple and audience-focused. Engage people with clear stories, concise visuals, and a message built around what they care about.Activity:Choose an idea, project, or product you frequently explain. Challenge yourself to describe it in 30 seconds, focusing only on the problem you solve and why it matters to your audience. Then ask someone if they can clearly explain it back to you. Revise your pitch until they can.Episode Reference Links:Guy KawasakiGuy's Book: Think RemarkableEp.82 It's Not About You: Why Effective Communicators Put Others FirstEp.47 Quick Thinks: How to Use Storytelling to Be a Better FounderConnect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:29) - Being a Great Evangelist (02:51) - Why Stories Move People (04:15) - Entertain Before You Inform (06:36) - The Goal of a Pitch (09:56) - Evolve Every Pitch (12:42) - The 10-20-30 Rule (15:57) - Better Slides, Better Presentations (16:39) - Lessons from Podcasting (18:09) - The Final Three Questions (22:20) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Most Work Platforms Help People Communicate. Some help you organize, but Zoom turns conversations into outcomes. Try Zoom Mate today
Send us Fan MailAmberly Lago is a widely recognized expert in helping entrepreneurs build their businesses through grit and resilience. As the founder of The Unstoppable Life Mastermind, she has worked with thousands of clients, empowering them to achieve success by developing resilience and perseverance.She is the host of The Amberly Lago Show, a podcast recognized by Apple as being among the Top 1% of podcasts worldwide.An internationally sought-after speaker on grit, resilience, and connection, Amberly has shared the stage with bestselling authors and thought leaders, and has delivered keynote presentations for companies including Lululemon, Google, and Athleta. Her TEDx talk has garnered hundreds of thousands of views.Through her authentic approach and unwavering commitment to serving others, Amberly has built a large and deeply engaged community. She is passionate about helping people overcome personal and professional challenges, equipping them with the mindset and resilience needed to create lasting success.A sought after thought leader and bestselling author in 19 categories, her insights have been featured in national media outlets like Forbes, USA Today (named Top Most Influential Speaker In the nation), The Doctors, Hallmark and The TODAY Show.Amberly has overcome major trauma in her life including 34 surgeries to save her leg after a horrific motorcycle accident. She emerged on top by leveraging her proprietary P.A.C.E.R. Method which teaches how authentically connecting with others leads to unstoppable resilience and success.-Quick Episode Summary:✅ What if your deepest pain became your greatest teacher?✅ Amberly Lago reveals how surviving 34 surgeries and living with chronic pain sparked grit, gratitude, and a new purpose.✅ On Passing The Torch, Amberly discusses resilience, hidden scars, finding joy alongside pain, and why desperation can be the spark for life-changing transformation.✅ Real stories, hard truths, and the secret to turning adversity into your superpower - press play and get inspired to rewrite your own story!-Podcast Chapters:00:00 Random Stuff06:15 Nervous before a big speech12:13 Building Relationships through Research13:45 Turning down an opportunity18:59 Amberly Lago's journey of resilience22:51 Dealing with chronic health issues26:18 Recovering from injuries28:11 Using gratitude to overcome fear31:26 Finding gratitude after the accident35:07 Struggling with alcoholism and recovery37:11 Dealing with hidden struggles41:10 Living with visible and invisible scars46:32 Talking about favorite movies47:31 Talking about celebrity lookalikes51:34 Billboard message for struggling individuals53:46 Expressing gratitude to Amberly-
Checkout Kotak Alts here: https://www.kotakalternateasset.comGet your hand-picked playbook here: https://www.figuringout.co/pdf/fo-533Guest Suggestion Form: https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.(00:00) - Intro(03:25) - Why Institutional Investors Prefer Private Markets Over Stocks(07:06) - Are Investors Losing Trust in India?(16:02) - Why Only 300–400 Indian Companies Are Truly Investable(21:35) - How Can Investors Feel Safe When Money Can Be Lost Overnight?(30:52) - Can India Compete Globally to Attract Capital?(43:57) - How They Raised Their First Fund(57:33) - What the World's Richest Investors Look For(1:00:42) - Do Ultra-Rich People Diversify Their Investments?(1:04:30) - Why Samsung Should Be Studied as a Family Business(1:19:06) - Which Countries Make the Biggest Risky Bets?(1:27:11) - Do Global Media Houses Deliberately Paint India Negatively?(1:30:00) - Can the US & China Together Harm India?(1:50:12) - Why He Invested in Data Centers Before the Hype(1:54:32) - A Future Opportunity Most People Are Ignoring(2:01:13) - Do Ultra-Rich Investors Have Insider Information?(2:05:33) - One Common Pattern Among Highly Successful People(2:08:40) - What Is Uday Kotak Like as a Boss?(2:09:58) - Do Ultra-Rich People Share a Common Belief?(2:12:17) - How Much Money Is Needed for a Comfortable Life in India?(2:14:10) - First-Generation vs Multi-Generational Wealth(2:15:26) - One Piece of Advice Nobody Should Follow(2:17:12) - OutroIn today's episode, we sit down with Srini Sriniwasan, Managing Director of Kotak Alts, a man who has spent 30+ years raising billions from the world's largest sovereign funds and pension funds to invest in India, for one of the most revealing conversations on how global money really works.About Raj ShamaniRaj Shamani is an Entrepreneur at heart that explains his expertise in Business Content Creation & Public Speaking. He has delivered 200+ speeches in 26+ countries. Besides that, Raj is also an Angel Investor interested in crazy minds who are creating a sensation in the Fintech, FMCG, & passion economy space.To Know More,Follow Raj Shamani On ⤵︎Instagram @RajShamani https://www.instagram.com/rajshamani/Twitter @RajShamani https://twitter.com/rajshamaniFacebook @ShamaniRaj https://www.facebook.com/shamanirajLinkedIn - Raj Shamani https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshamani/About Figuring OutFiguring Out Podcast is a Candid Conversations University where Raj Shamani brings raw conversations with the Top 1% in India.
Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with Wednesdays on Whidbey and your host, Diane Wyzga. We humans have shortcomings in common. Certain personal and professional imperfections—such as procrastination, impatience, and difficulty with public speaking, among others—that we naturally work to improve or manage. Maybe like me you've struggled to perfect your shortcomings only to discover that a better use of your energy might be to put them in service to self-awareness. Developing a habit of proactive personal growth identifies shortcomings without excessive self-shame and focuses on practical strategies for improvement, rather than dwelling on the weakness itself. No more “Should on you!” What if instead of focusing on what I'm not because of a standard set by someone else, I assess all I've done, accomplished, overcome, created, and become over the course of my life thus far because I learned how to fall down 7 and get up 8? What if I make up my mind to attend to projects and ideas that are achievable and meaningful to me despite my shortcomings—because I say so! Question: How are you incorporating your shortcomings to live the life you want, where you want, how you want, with whom you want, and for the reasons you want? We determine who we are, shortcomings and all! You're always welcome: "Come for the stories - Stay for the magic!" Speaking of magic, I hope you'll subscribe, share a 5-star rating and nice review on your social media or podcast channel of choice, bring your friends and rellies, and join us! You will have wonderful company as we continue to walk our lives together. AND! Stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website during reconstruction, email me [info@quartermoonstoryarts.net] to arrange a no-obligation Discovery Call, and stay current with me as Quarter Moon Story Arts on Substack. Stories From Women Who Walk Production Team Podcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story Arts Music: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron Music ALL content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved. If you found this podcast episode helpful, please consider sharing and attributing it to Diane Wyzga of Stories From Women Who Walk podcast with a link back to the original source.
Talk to KimKim shares her recent speaking experiences, upcoming workshop, and personal reflections on embracing her voice and taking up space in midlife. Discover how she's turning challenges into opportunities for empowerment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Kim's recent activities01:53 Kim's speaking engagements and experiences03:37 The 'Just' workshop and its purpose06:09 Upcoming workshops and online options07:59 Kim's passion for speaking and sharing10:37 Encouragement to take up space and be confident12:28 Closing thoughts and next episode previewWebsite - https://midlifewithcourage.comEmail - mailto:kim@midlifewithcourage.comSupport the showHave you been listening to Midlife with Courage™ and thinking, "That's me"?Now it's time to take the next step.It's Not J.U.S.T. You™ is a transformational 4-week workshop designed for women who are ready to stop shrinking themselves, take up space, and live more boldly. Together, we'll uncover the subtle ways we make ourselves smaller, explore why those patterns exist, and practice the tools to communicate with confidence, set healthy boundaries, and step fully into the life we deserve.If you're ready to move from inspiration to transformation, I'd love to have you join us this September.Click HERE for Priority Access. The podcast starts the conversation. The workshop is where the transformation begins.*****************************************************Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Bold Women Thriving After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: Podmatch Link NEWSLETTER WEBSITEFACEBOOK
Fluent Fiction - Danish: Triumph Over Fear: The Power of Friendship in School Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2026-07-07-07-38-20-da Story Transcript:Da: Solen skinnede klart over den moderne forstad.En: The sun was shining brightly over the modern suburb.Da: Husene stod på rad og række, næsten identiske med deres røde tage og hvide facader.En: The houses stood in rows, almost identical with their red roofs and white facades.Da: Skolegården summede af energi.En: The schoolyard buzzed with energy.Da: Det var sidste skoledag før sommerferien, og eleverne var spændte.En: It was the last day of school before summer vacation, and the students were excited.Da: Det var dagen for deres afsluttende projektpræsentationer.En: It was the day for their final project presentations.Da: Inde i det solrige klasseværelse sad Niels, Freja og Soren sammen.En: Inside the sunny classroom sat Niels, Freja, and Soren together.Da: Tavlen bag dem var fyldt med farverige projektplancher.En: The board behind them was filled with colorful project posters.Da: Niels sad med fugtige hænder og gned dem nervøst mod bukserne.En: Niels sat with clammy hands, nervously rubbing them against his pants.Da: Han frygtede at tale foran klassen.En: He dreaded speaking in front of the class.Da: Det var hans værste mareridt.En: It was his worst nightmare.Da: Freja sad ved siden af ham.En: Freja was sitting next to him.Da: Hun var normalt selvsikker, men i dag havde hun svært ved at koncentrere sig.En: She was normally confident, but today she was having trouble concentrating.Da: Hendes tanker var et andet sted, optaget af problemer derhjemme.En: Her thoughts were elsewhere, occupied with problems at home.Da: Alligevel smilede hun og prøvede at holde humøret oppe for holdets skyld.En: Still, she smiled and tried to keep her spirits up for the team's sake.Da: På den anden side af bordet sad Soren.En: On the other side of the table sat Soren.Da: Han tjekkede deres powerpoint for sidste gang.En: He was checking their PowerPoint one last time.Da: Hans øjne lyste af ambition.En: His eyes shone with ambition.Da: Han ønskede virkelig at vinde prisen for bedste projekt.En: He really wanted to win the prize for the best project.Da: Det var hans store chance.En: It was his big chance.Da: "Vi gør det sammen," sagde Freja opmuntrende og lagde en hånd på Niels' skulder.En: "We'll do it together," Freja said encouragingly, placing a hand on Niels' shoulder.Da: Niels nikkede, men hans hjerte bankede hurtigt.En: Niels nodded, but his heart was pounding.Da: Han vidste han skulle vælge: Skulle han klare det alene, eller turde han bede om hjælp?En: He knew he had to choose: Should he handle it alone, or dare he ask for help?Da: Så blev det deres tur.En: Then it was their turn.Da: De rejste sig og gik mod podiet.En: They stood up and walked towards the podium.Da: Soren startede stærkt.En: Soren started strongly.Da: Hans ord flød klart og sikkert, og klassen lyttede opmærksomt.En: His words flowed clearly and confidently, and the class listened attentively.Da: Så var det Niels' tur.En: Then it was Niels' turn.Da: Han så ud over klassen.En: He looked out over the class.Da: Han kunne mærke ordene sidde fast i halsen.En: He could feel the words sticking in his throat.Da: Angst greb ham, og han frygtede at fryse.En: Anxiety gripped him, and he feared freezing.Da: Pludselig fangede hans blik Frejas varme smil.En: Suddenly, his gaze caught Freja's warm smile.Da: Hun nikkede opmuntrende til ham.En: She nodded encouragingly at him.Da: Niels tog en dyb indånding.En: Niels took a deep breath.Da: Den lille gestus fra Freja gav ham styrke.En: The little gesture from Freja gave him strength.Da: Han begyndte at tale, først tøvende, men så med mere sikkerhed.En: He began to speak, first hesitantly, but then with more confidence.Da: Sætningerne faldt på plads, og han forklarede deres projekt med klarhed.En: The sentences fell into place, and he explained their project with clarity.Da: Freja afsluttede præsenteringen med flair.En: Freja concluded the presentation with flair.Da: Soren så tilfreds ud, og da de sluttede, brød klassen ud i applaus.En: Soren looked satisfied, and as they finished, the class broke out in applause.Da: Læreren roste dem og meddelte, at de havde vundet prisen for det bedste projekt.En: The teacher praised them and announced that they had won the prize for the best project.Da: Niels følte en bølge af lettelse og stolthed.En: Niels felt a wave of relief and pride.Da: Han havde klaret det.En: He had done it.Da: Med hjælp fra sine venner havde han overvundet sin frygt.En: With help from his friends, he had overcome his fear.Da: Holdet omfavnede hinanden, og Soren smilede stort.En: The team embraced each other, and Soren beamed brightly.Da: På vejen hjem gik Niels med en fornyet selvtillid.En: On the way home, Niels walked with renewed confidence.Da: Han havde lært, at man ikke behøver at være alene for at overvinde sine udfordringer.En: He had learned that one doesn't have to be alone to overcome challenges.Da: Teamarbejde var vejen frem.En: Teamwork was the way forward.Da: Deres succesfulde præsentation markerede ikke kun slutningen på skoleåret, men også begyndelsen på et nyt kapitel for Niels.En: Their successful presentation marked not only the end of the school year but also the beginning of a new chapter for Niels.Da: Han havde indset sin egen styrke og vigtigheden af venskab og støtte.En: He had realized his own strength and the importance of friendship and support.Da: I den varme sommerbrise vidste Niels, at han var klar til, hvad fremtiden måtte bringe.En: In the warm summer breeze, Niels knew he was ready for whatever the future might bring. Vocabulary Words:shining: skinnedesuburb: forstadidentical: identiskefacades: facaderbuzzed: summedevacation: ferieoccupied: optagetflair: flairambition: ambitionenergy: energidreaded: frygtedenightmare: mareridtconfident: selvsikkerattentively: opmærksomtanxiety: angsthesitantly: tøvendegesture: gestusstrength: styrkeapplause: applausembraced: omfavnederenewed: fornyetconfidence: selvtillidchallenges: udfordringerteamwork: teamarbejdepresentation: præsentationstrength: styrkeflair: flairpride: stolthedrealized: indsetsupport: støtte
Checkout ASUS ExpertBook P Series: https://www.flipkart.com/asus-expertbook-core-ultra-storeGet your hand-picked playbook here: https://www.figuringout.co/pdf/fo-532Guest Suggestion Form: https://forms.gle/bnaeY3FpoFU9ZjA47Disclaimer: This video is intended solely for educational purposes and opinions shared by the guest are his personal views. We do not intent to defame or harm any person/ brand/ product/ country/ profession mentioned in the video. Our goal is to provide information to help audience make informed choices. The media used in this video are solely for informational purposes and belongs to their respective owners.Order 'Build, Don't Talk' (in English) here: https://amzn.eu/d/eCfijRuOrder 'Build Don't Talk' (in Hindi) here: https://amzn.eu/d/4wZISO0Follow Our Whatsapp Channel: https://www.whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaokF5x0bIdi3Qn9ef2J(00:00) - Intro(03:31) - What Does the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Do?(09:40) - Mumbai Local Trains Come Under Indian Railways, Not the State Government(16:36) - Can Railway Projects Be Given to Private Companies?(31:01) - Who Decides a City Needs a Metro?(45:19) - What Does She Mean by a Tunnel System in Mumbai?(49:37) - Aqua Line: A 55-km Tunnel(1:10:04) - Does a Change in Government Affect Metro Station Locations?(1:13:48) - Why Is Mumbai Falling Behind in Metro Development?(1:20:19) - Why Is Metro Line 3 Costing So Much?(1:27:57) - How Much Does One Metro Station Cost to Build?(1:29:08) - Metro Line 3 Station Flooded 15 Days After Opening(1:50:03) - How Will Mumbai Solve Its Traffic Problem?(2:02:59) - How Much Does It Cost to Buy a Metro Station?(2:08:04) - Why Can't the BMC Fix Mumbai's Potholes?(2:20:00) - Dumping: A Common Problem in India(2:30:20) - Slum Demolition in Garib Nagar(2:42:19) - The Most Brutal Part of Her Job(2:47:31) - BTS(2:48:27) - OutroIn today's episode, we sit down with Ms Ashwini Bhide IAS officer, Municipal Commissioner of BMC and MD of Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation the person who built Mumbai's underground Aqua Line and now runs the city that moves 20 million people a day.About Raj ShamaniRaj Shamani is an Entrepreneur at heart that explains his expertise in Business Content Creation & Public Speaking. He has delivered 200+ speeches in 26+ countries. Besides that, Raj is also an Angel Investor interested in crazy minds who are creating a sensation in the Fintech, FMCG, & passion economy space.To Know More,Follow Raj Shamani On ⤵︎Instagram @RajShamani https://www.instagram.com/rajshamani/Twitter @RajShamani https://twitter.com/rajshamaniFacebook @ShamaniRaj https://www.facebook.com/shamanirajLinkedIn - Raj Shamani https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajshamani/About Figuring OutFiguring Out Podcast is a Candid Conversations University where Raj Shamani brings raw conversations with the Top 1% in India.
I love using AI, and I use it almost every day. But when it comes to thought leadership, talks, and presentations, I've also seen how easy it is for AI to pull us into a new version of the Expert Trap.In this episode, I'm sharing three things to be careful about when using AI for your talks, from my own recent experiences with clients, including why it can miss the deeper signal in your message, strip away your natural personality, and leave you with endless unfinished ideas that never become anything concrete.I also share three smart ways I do recommend using AI: creating stronger slide graphics, brainstorming audience activities for workshops, and analyzing call-for-speakers pages so you can find a stronger pitch angle.My goal isn't to talk you out of using AI. It's to help you use it in a way that supports your voice, your ideas, and your real thought leadership instead of replacing the very things that make you compelling.You'll learn:Why AI can keep you stuck in the Expert TrapThe difference between AI “polish” and your real voiceWhy your personality matters so much in a talkHow too many AI-generated ideas can create more unfinished projectsThree ways I recommend using AI for presentationsWhy I no longer recommend using AI to draft TEDx or speaker submissionsHow to make your human credibility markers stand out in your speaking proposalsAbout Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links:Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/479/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxRelated Podcast Episodes:Episode 468: What TEDx Organizers Look for When Selecting SpeakersEpisode 478: The Expert Trap: Why Great Speakers Don't Become Thought LeadersEpisode 477: What AI Couldn't Do: Finding the Perfect Name for My BookEpisode 432: AI Is Already Impacting Your Business – Here are 4 Innovative Ways to Leverage ItEpisode 433: Behind the Scenes of My AI-Powered Business: Real-World Use Cases
What do Donald Trump, Christopher Walken, Morgan Freeman, speech therapy, and persuasion have in common? Apparently… everything.This week, Anne sits down with Emmy-nominated emcee, comedian, speaker, impressionist, and all-around character John Di Domenico (https://beacons.ai/thejohnnydshow) for a conversation that starts with celebrity impressions and unexpectedly turns into a fascinating deep dive into the power of the human voice. John shares how overcoming a severe childhood speech impediment led him to develop an incredible understanding of voice, cadence, pacing, and influence, and why most of us are leaving a huge amount of our vocal potential untapped.Whether you're a speaker, salesperson, leader, podcaster, or just a human who talks to other humans, this episode will change the way you think about the sound of your own voice.In This Episode, we Talk About: How speech therapy turned John into a master impressionist The surprising connection between voice, trust, and influence Why hearing your recorded voice makes you cringe...and why you should absolutely do it anyway Simple ways to improve your presence, communication, and impact How Morgan Freeman intentionally developed that legendary voice Hi Alex Baldwin impression https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x1cqbz6Want more from John?John Di Domenico Social Media Card: https://beacons.ai/thejohnnydshowWebsite: thejohnnydshow.comInstagram: @thejohnnydshow LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndidomenico/FB: www.facebook.com/johndidomenicocomedy/Youtube: www.youtube.com/@thejohnnydshow1TikTok: thejohnnydshowCameo: https://www.cameo.com/thejohnnydshowEmmy Nominated, Award-Winning, Actor, Writer, Comedian & Impressionist. John started performing voices at five years old & went on to overcome a severe speech impediment. He voices many celebrities and is now best known for his Live, TV, Film and Vocal appearances across all platforms. As a speaker, John Di Domenico captivates audiences with a unique and engaging blend of entertainment and insightful commentary. John hosts and emcees corporate meetings in the US and internationally for Fortune 500 companies. He has 6.1 million TikTok followers, 25 million YouTube views and 50k Facebook Followers.Anne Bonney is a keynote speaker and emcee who helps organizations lead through change by building resilience, emotional intelligence, and courageous communication.
Drop us a message!In this week's podcast episode, we're discussing topics such as an Instagram Messaging update, the importance of public speaking within the marketing space, as well as the risks of User-Generated Content (UGC) and brand perception.With special guest Kathryn Strachan, International Keynote Speaker, Author, and Podcast Host, as well as Nikki & Lottie from the Giraffe Social team.Want to be featured on the pod? Drop us a voice note on Instagram at @GiraffeSM.About Giraffe Social's Social in 10 PodcastGiraffe Social is a multi-disciplined digital marketing agency specialising in social media marketing based on the South Coast of the United Kingdom. We work with a wide range of industries, spanning from Fintech and L&D, to Beauty and Retail.Social in 10 is a weekly podcast about all things digital marketing. We discuss all the things social media managers want to know, including the latest platform updates, emerging trends, campaign ideas, and best practices to help you stay ahead of the curve. Whether you're managing multiple clients or growing your brand in-house, each episode is packed with actionable insights… all delivered in under ten minutes.Hosted by the Giraffe Social team, this is your fast, fun, no-fluff guide to making sense of social. New episodes every week, so tune in and level up your marketing game!
Partner with Jay: https://www.jayschwedelson.com/contactㅤPre-order Jay Schwedelson's new book, Stupider People Have Done It (out June 9, 2026).All net proceeds are donated to The V Foundation for Cancer Research, let's kick cancer's butt: https://www.amazon.com/Stupider-People-Have-Done-Marketing/dp/1637635206ㅤSubscribe to Jay's newsletter for weekly marketing tips and tactics: https://www.jayschwedelson.com/newsletterㅤRegister for GuruConference (FREE + VIRTUAL!) https://www.guruconference.comㅤCheck out Eventastic (FREE + VIRTUAL!) https://www.eventastic.comㅤConnect with Jay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schwedelson/Check out Jay's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@schwedelsonCheck out Jay's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jayschwedelson/Ask Jay anything: https://www.jayschwedelson.com/askㅤLeave a comment and follow the show, it really helps us out!ㅤMost of the advice floating around about public speaking comes from people who are, ironically, painfully boring at it. Jay Schwedelson has done over 300 keynotes and landed on a set of habits that run against almost everything you've been coached to do, from ditching the memorized script to practicing with the TV blaring. Whether the room is a packed stage or four people on a Zoom, the same small moves are what actually keep people listening.ㅤBest Moments:(01:30) The opener that quietly loses the room before you've even started(02:00) Two little words that tell people boredom is on the way(02:18) Why a memorized speech always sounds hollow, no matter how polished(03:10) Rehearse with the TV on, because silence is nothing like the real room(03:45) Put your best material in the first 90 seconds instead of saving it for the end(06:15) The pre-talk move with one or two people that quietly kills the nerves
"I didn't get paid to go to Seattle, but I made a good connection there that I will be paid for."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this Alumni Spotlight episode, host Dan Irvin sits down with Dr. David Chastain, a speaker who works at an intersection most people are afraid to even name out loud: grief and addiction, and the way the two are wound together. Grief can delay recovery, and it can trigger relapse years into sobriety — and David speaks on it from both professional expertise and lived experience.David has been quietly stacking wins, and almost every one of them traces back to the same source: relationships. A paid webinar that came through a former colleague. A talk for an addiction professionals association in North Carolina where one conversation with the executive director — and one leader who happened to be in the room — turned a "our keynotes are full" into a three-hour pre-conference workshop. An unpaid conference in Seattle where he worked the empty expo hall and walked away with three or four potential webinars in the pipeline. He didn't chase the money. He tended the relationships, and the money followed.Dan also puts on his coaching hat for a candid working session: how to handle the conference that passed on your proposal (spoiler: "apply again next year" is an invitation, not a brush-off), why you should retitle your talk to match a conference theme without rebuilding it, and the insight from a local speakers association that unlocked a whole new pitch — framing grief and addiction as the employee-retention problem businesses are already paying to solve.Whether you're waiting on your first paid gig or wondering whether the free rooms are worth it, this episode will change how you measure a room!You'll learn:Why grief and addiction intersect — delaying recovery and triggering relapse even years into sobrietyWhat landing a paid webinar meant after years of speaking for free ("it's okay for me to ask for money")Why your existing network beats cold outreach — and how to actually use itDavid's "tiny book" strategy: 40 portable pages designed to sell at conference tablesHow seeking out one executive director turned a filled keynote slate into a three-hour workshopThe empty expo hall trick: working vendor rooms while everyone else is in sessionsHow to respond when a conference passes on your proposal — and why you should always reapplyRetitling your talk to fit a conference theme without changing the talk itselfThe reframe that opened a corporate lane: grief and addiction as a turnover and retention problemWhy David stopped saying "I'm not good at networking" — and what changed when he didAnd much, much more!"I've stopped saying I'm not good at networking, because the evidence says I am. It's not only the process of the events happening again — it's the process of believing that I can make this work."Measuring every room by what it pays you today? The unpaid room might be the seed. Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA and build a system that turns connections into bookings.Episode Resources:Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentDr. Chastain's WebsiteCalculate Your Speaking Fee Subscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
"If these masters are still continually trying to improve their own craft, I don't have any excuses."The world's best don't reach the top and stop learning—they keep refining their craft. David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass, has spent years sitting across from elite performers, athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs—and he's discovered that excellence is less about talent than a relentless commitment to growth. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, he joins Matt Abrahams to share lessons from building a company around learning, persuasion, and communication. From earning the trust of high-profile talent to leading creative and technical teams, Rogier reveals why curiosity, adaptability, and authentic relationship-building are essential communication skills.Takeaways:Lead with curiosity. Build trust by asking thoughtful questions and focusing on the other person's needs, not your own. Never stop improving. The world's top performers continuously seek feedback, refine their skills, and embrace lifelong learning.Activity:Study an expert. Watch a communicator you admire—a speaker, leader, or interviewer—and identify three techniques they use to engage their audience. Try incorporating one of those techniques into your next presentation or meeting.Printable Extended Takeaways & ActivitiesEpisode Reference Links:David RogierMatt's MasterClassConnect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:39) - The Power of Learning (01:28) - Building Trust (04:21) - Creating Great Content (07:23) - Leading Different Teams (09:45) - Learning from Masters (10:54) - Communicating with a Stutter (14:00) - The Final Three Questions (17:39) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.To see what Scribe could look like for your organization, head to scribe.how/thinkfast and mention Think Fast for your first month of Scribe Capture free.
D&P Highlight: Top 5 phobias over the decades...why are we SO afraid of public speaking?! full 443 Thu, 02 Jul 2026 18:57:00 +0000 NNEa0ZSUK3Q0t1no5a4zWrCl5ZspDvkU news The Dana & Parks Podcast news D&P Highlight: Top 5 phobias over the decades...why are we SO afraid of public speaking?! You wanted it... Now here it is! Listen to each hour of the Dana & Parks Show whenever and wherever you want! © 2025 Audacy, Inc. News https
“Communication is the number one way to remove friction.”If communication is the key to connection, then removing friction is what makes every interaction work. According to Vanessa Van Edwards, the most effective communicators aren't just skilled with words—they know how to align their gestures, body language, and presence to make others feel at ease. A behavioral researcher and bestselling author of Captivate and Cues, Van Edwards studies the subtle signals that shape how we are perceived. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, she joins Matt Abrahams to explore the hidden factors that influence communication, from purposeful gestures and expressive body language to the words, images, and visual cues that build trust and credibility.Takeaways:Great communication goes beyond words. Gestures, facial expressions, visual cues, and even the language we use in emails and meetings can either create friction or build trust, clarity, and connection.Focus on the other person, not yourself. By applying the Platinum Rule—treating others as they want to be treated—and intentionally putting people at ease, communicators can foster stronger relationships, deeper conversations, and greater influence.Activity:Practice the Platinum Rule. Before your next important conversation, meeting, or email, take one minute to answer: “What does this person need from me right now?” Then tailor your communication to their priorities, concerns, and preferred style—not your own. Afterward, reflect on how that shift changed the quality of the interaction.Printable PDF of Takeaways & ActivityEpisode Reference Links:Vanessa Van EdwardsVanessa's Books: Cues / CaptivateEp.137 When Words Aren't Enough: How to Excel at Nonverbal Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:01) - The Importance of Strategic Communication (01:45) - The Power of Gestures (04:10) - A Readiness Check for Speakers (05:56) - Over-Signaling vs. Under-Signaling (08:18) - Dangerous Words in Communication (12:27) - Imagery Cues & First Impressions (15:03) - Virtual Backgrounds Matter (17:33) - The Platinum Rule (19:01) - The Final Three Questions (23:59) - Conclusion
Have you ever given a talk that people loved in the moment but nothing happened afterward?The audience took notes. They told you how valuable your presentation was. But you didn't get the next speaking invitation, new clients, or bigger opportunities.In this episode, I explain what I call the Expert Trap: the place where expertise becomes the very thing holding you back from becoming a thought leader.I share the three signs that you may be stuck in the Expert Trap, why helpful talks aren't always memorable, and what separates speakers who simply educate from those whose ideas truly travel.If you've been wondering why your speaking isn't creating the impact you know it's capable of, this episode will help you see your talks through a new lens.In this episode you'll learn:The three signs you're stuck in the Expert TrapWhy audiences remember perspectives more than informationHow thought leaders help people see themselves differently, not just learn something newWhat your expertise may be costing you without you realizing itAbout Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links:Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/478/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxRelated Podcast Episodes:Episode 362: Integrating Thought Leadership and Lead Generation in Your Signature Talk with Danielle HaydenEpisode 354: Finding and Developing Your Big I.D.E.A.Episode 338: Escaping the Expert Trap: From Academic Presenter to Sought-After Speaker with Teri DeLucca, PhDEpisode 342: I Almost Got Stuck in the Expert Trap: How I Created My Recent Successful Conference PresentationEpisode 458: Same Message, Different Medium: Why Your Talk Isn't Landing (and How to Fix It)
Are you holding back your true story because you are terrified of failing or being judged on stage? In this episode of Deepen with Christina, host Christina Weber sits down with world-renowned speaker coach Colleen Schell to explore how stepping onto the stage is the ultimate act of self-love. Together, they break down how to conquer performance anxiety, reframe the fear of losing your train of thought, and navigate the necessary tension that precedes true personal transformation. This episode is a must-listen for heart-centered leaders, coaches, and creators who feel a calling to speak but find themselves paralyzed by perfectionism. Tune in to discover why the world doesn't need your perfection—it craves your authentic connection. Main Topics Covered The Intersection of Public Speaking and Self-Love — How taking creative risks and embracing the "wonky" phases of growth allows you to see yourself through new eyes and build genuine self-trust. The Ego Trap of Shyness and Hoarding Wisdom — A powerful reframing of stage fright as a form of egoism, and the responsibility of sharing your transformational gifts instead of keeping them hidden. Overcoming the Fear of Rupture on Stage — Actionable mindsets for navigating moments when you lose your train of thought or make a mistake in front of a live audience. Sitting in the Tension of Transformation — Why discomfort, chaos, and emotional breakthroughs are necessary leadership skills required to reach your next level. The Shift from External Success to Deep Community Connection — Moving away from materialistic metrics of a successful life and embracing the enlivening power of vulnerable, real-life relationships. The Future of Human Storytelling in an AI-Driven Era — Why authentic personal stories and community hosting will become the ultimate currency as automated technology becomes hyper-competitive. Practical Storytelling Hacks for Beginners — The undeniable power of comedy improv and how to use open mics as a safe training ground to find your voice. Key Takeaways Perfectionism is a Barrier to Connection — Audiences will easily forgive mistakes, but they will not forgive being bored; they want to see your humanity, not a flawless execution. Ego Works Both Ways — Believing you are "too small" or too shy to share your message is just as self-absorbed as boasting; if divinity placed a fire in your heart to speak, it is your duty to tend it. You are Safe in the Rupture — When emotional or cognitive breakdowns happen, your primary job is to act as the steward of your own nervous system, utilizing tools like the butterfly tap to regulate yourself. If You Do What is Hard, Life Becomes Easy — Avoiding the uncomfortable path of public speaking keeps your life small, but leaning into the practice creates an aligned, rich destiny where unexpected opportunities effortlessly unlock. Connect with the Guest Main Website: FABx 7-Figure Visionary Speaker Weekend Accelerator: Register Here Instagram: @colleenschell Connect with the Host WeDeepen Website: wedeepen.com Christina Weber Website: christinalweber.com Instagram: @wedeepen & @christinaweber LinkedIn: Christina Weber Call to Action If this conversation inspired you to step out of the audience and onto the stage of your own life, please follow the podcast, leave a like, and share this episode with a friend or fellow leader who needs to hear this message today!
Today, I am joined by Vegan Mindset Coach, Anita Marriott. Anita is a veterinarian and sustainability professional turned vegan mindset coach. She helps clients in 4 big ways, coaching them through Vystopia, helping them develop effective communication skills, providing mindset and emotional support, and finding alignment in their purpose. To connect with Anita:Visit her website: https://theveganmindsetcoach.com/Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theveganmindsetcoach/Join Anita's private Facebook group - Unstoppable Vegans: https://www.facebook.com/groups/unstoppablevegansMentioned in this episode:Clare Mann on DYBTH: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/podcast/episode/27781bbc/episode-125-vystopia-with-clare-mannMelanie Joy - Carnism: https://www.melaniejoy.org/To connect with me:Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummusDYBTH merch now available! Check out the shop here: https://did-you-bring-the-hummus.myspreadshop.comFor more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivistsContact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.comSign up for meditation sessions hereSign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program hereJoin my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest©2026 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLCTheme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
"It's never gonna be right. It's gonna be good enough to get started. You have enough to get started — just get started."Welcome back to The Speaker Lab Podcast! In this Alumni Spotlight episode, host Dan Irvin sits down with Chris Jackson — a speaker and consultant building his business from the foundation up, getting ready to land his first paid gig in this chapter of his career. And the message he's building on is one every listener needs to feel, not just nod along to: momentum, breaking the inertia of the start, and getting comfortable with an ugly start.Chris's favorite analogy says it all — spaceships burn most of their fuel breaking gravity, not cruising through space. He and Dan unpack how perfectionism keeps speakers grounded, how the Speaker Bureau intake (plus some smart AI brainstorming) finally gave Chris clarity on his niche — helping high-performing dentists shift from clinician to CEO — and the proposal he sat on for weeks despite knowing every single decision maker by name. He just wouldn't pick up the phone. If you've ever been the dog sitting on the nail, this one's for you.Then there's the story that gave both of them goosebumps: 19-year-old Chris bombing his first tour at Atlanta's Cyclorama, until an older gentleman shook his hand, told him to slow down, and gave him a five-dollar tip — his first paid speaking gig and the feedback that launched a lifelong study of the craft. It pairs with the harder lesson that came later: someone told Chris he sounded "too motivational," and he let it shrink him until speaking wasn't fun anymore. The takeaway? Take the feedback that serves your mission, and let the rest go.Whether you're frozen at the starting line or sanding down your voice to fit someone else's idea of you, this episode will get you off the nail and into motion!You'll learn:Why breaking gravity takes most of your fuel — and what that means for starting your speaking businessHow perfectionism disguises itself as preparation (and keeps your talk grounded)Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentFind Chris Jackson on InstagramCalculate Your Speaking Fee Subscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on SpotifyHow the Speaker Bureau intake questions gave Chris real clarity on his clinician-to-CEO topicUsing AI as a brainstorming partner, not a do-it-all machine — and why mastering one tool beats drinking from the tech fire hoseWhat private equity did to dental service organizations, and the pain point Chris solves for dentistsThe "too motivational" feedback that almost cost Chris his voice — and what it taught himHow to tell the difference between feedback worth taking and feedback worth letting goThe Cyclorama story: a stranger's $5 tip that became a first paid gig and a turning pointWhy Chris knew every decision maker for his first proposal — and still wouldn't make the callWhy momentum is a decision, not a feelingAnd much, much more!Episode Resources:Get Your 15 Minute Speaker Business AssessmentFind Chris Jackson on InstagramCalculate Your Speaking Fee Subscribe on Apple PodcastsSubscribe on Spotify"Do the thing that you fear the most. Make the phone call, send the proposal, show up. When you show up for yourself, that's when the magic happens."---Sitting on your own nail right now? Stop waiting for perfect and take the first step. Grab a free 15-minute Speaker Business Assessment at thespeakerlab.com/SBA — a real look at where you are and what to do next.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Celebrating 300 episodes with listener questions from around the world. In this special 300th episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, host Matt Abrahams celebrates a major milestone with a live Ask Matt Anything session featuring questions from listeners around the world—and a few from the team behind the show. He introduces a new communication framework, PREP (Point, Reason, Example, Point), before tackling topics ranging from word recall and public speaking nerves to storytelling, AI's impact on communication, giving difficult feedback, and using gestures more effectively. Along the way, he shares practical strategies, favorite communication techniques, and lessons learned from 300 episodes dedicated to helping people communicate with confidence, clarity, and connection.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Ep.250 How to Navigate Conflict: Tools For Productive Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:13) - PREP Framework (04:13) - Improving Word Recall (07:10) - Public Speaking Nerves (11:35) - Concise vs. Detailed Communication (13:39) - AI & Communication Skills (16:12) - Storytelling Fundamentals (18:51) - Lingo vs. Jargon (20:22) - Difficult Feedback Conversations (22:36) - The Power of Paraphrasing (25:07) - Effective Gestures (29:28) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors. These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost. Upwork is a one-stop platform to find, hire, and pay expert freelancers. Visit upwork.com right now and post your job for free.
You can give a great presentation, get lots of compliments afterward, and still walk away with zero leads.Why? Because most speakers approach their talks like teachers instead of marketers.In this episode, Diane Diaz and I share how to create presentations that generate interest, build trust, and lead to clients, without feeling salesy or violating the dreaded "no selling from the stage" rule.We talk about why audiences don't need more information, what they actually want from your presentation, and how to structure your talks so people understand not only your message, but also why you're the right person to help them.If you've ever wondered why your speaking engagements aren't translating into business opportunities, this episode will help you rethink how you approach your talks.In this episode, we discuss:• Why giving audiences more information often reduces conversions• The difference between a lead-generation talk and a paid workshop• How our Signature Talk Canvas® helps speakers create demand without being pushy• The critical role of Act One in building trust and audience buy-in• How to plant "sales seeds" naturally through stories and client examples• Why emotional connection matters more than tactics and tips• Simple ways to capture leads and book conversations after your presentation• Real-world examples of talks that generated immediate clientsIf you're ready to work with us on creating or refining your signature talk, head to speakingyourbrand.com/contact/ to schedule a consultation and explore the best way for us to work together.This episode originally aired as episode 457 on December 29, 2025.About Us: The Speaking Your Brand podcast is hosted by Carol Cox. At Speaking Your Brand, we help women entrepreneurs and professionals clarify their brand message and story, create their signature talks, and develop their thought leadership platforms. Our mission is to get more women in positions of influence and power because it's through women's stories, voices, and visibility that we challenge the status quo and change existing systems. Check out our coaching programs at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com. Links:Show notes at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/457/ Discover your Speaker Archetype by taking our free quiz at https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/quiz/Enroll in our Thought Leader Academy: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/academy/ Attend our 1-day Speaking Accelerator Workshop in Orlando: https://www.speakingyourbrand.com/orlando/ Connect on LinkedIn:Carol Cox = https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolcoxDiane Diaz = https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianediaz/ Related Podcast Episodes:Episode 456: The Missing Piece of Your Marketing Strategy is a Signature TalkEpisode 449: Small Shifts That Make a Huge Difference in Your Presentation Impact & ResultsEpisode 362: Integrating Thought Leadership and Lead Generation in Your Signature Talk with Danielle Hayden
As professional speakers, our number one goal is always to deliver an absolute knockout experience for our client and audience every single time we step onto that stage. A huge part of moving the needle and standing out in this industry comes down to your creative edge—how you package your ideas and tailor them so perfectly that the client feels like it was built just for them. On this episode of The Wealthy Speaker Podcast, we're excited to welcome the incredibly creative Kyle Scheele to the show. He's joining us to share his insights on how you can inject fresh creativity into your presentations and guarantee you're delivering a unique, high-value speech every time you take the mic. Highlights you don't want to miss: Crazy Ideas…Crazy Results 0:00 Kyle does “some” social media stuff 1:00 We're all creative 6:00 Getting into speaking 9:00 Kyle's creative video 14:00 Hits & misses 18:00 Use content & entertainment 23:00 Just ask… 25:30 See you next time 32:03 If you want some creative and crazy ideas that you can put into practice to get some crazy results, you simply can't afford to miss this episode. For access to FULL SHOW NOTES, including video and links, visit: https://www.speakerlauncher.com/category/podcast/
Why do some podcasters instantly connect with their audience while others struggle to keep listeners engaged? The answer lies in one word: Prosody. In Part 3 of our series with David Goldberg, founder of Edge Studio, we dive deep into the "how" of human communication. David explains that it's not just what you say, but how you say it—your pitch, tempo, tone, and rhythm—that makes all the difference. We explore why this essential skill is rarely taught in schools and how you can harness your natural pitch to mask nervousness and project confidence. Whether you're a seasoned host or just starting out, David's insights on effective vocal patterns will dramatically elevate your podcast presence. ⏱️ Accurate YouTube Chapters & Timestamps 0:00 Welcome & Introduction to David Goldberg 0:57 Prosody: The one word that defines how you say your words 1:36 What is Prosody? Inflection, intonation, pitch, and rhythm 2:12 The Education Gap: Why prosody isn't taught in grade school 3:24 The Fear of Public Speaking: How a lack of training leads to humiliation 5:54 Communication Skills: The key to success in corporations and colleges 6:52 The Search for Synonyms: Why "speaking patterns" doesn't cover it all 7:51 Prosody for Podcasters: Breaking down the seven categories 9:52 Pitch: The musical note of your voice and its role in engagement 11:28 Masking Nerves: How lowering your pitch increases credibility 13:00 Finding Your Natural Pitch: The humming and meditation techniques 15:00 Pitch Range Exercises: Moving from monotone to engaging 18:00 Tempo: The speed of your words and the importance of clarity 21:00 Handling Single-Syllable Words: Ensuring your audience can decipher the message 23:00 Tone and Volume: Tailoring your voice to the topic and audience 25:30 Pacing and Spacing: The rhythm of your delivery 26:50 Variety: Keeping the listener engaged through vocal shifts 74:11 Final Advice: Loosening up and having fun with your performance 74:52 Where to Find David: Edge Studio and coaching services 76:31 Outro: RoyCoughlan.com and the PodFather Network 76:53 End of Episode
Every leader has something they keep putting off. In this episode, Jon Acuff joins Craig to name the procrastination cycle holding leaders back and how to build the habits and mindsets that move you from hesitation to real action. Get the free leader guide for this episode here: https://www.life.church/leadershippodcast/productivity-expert-stop-procrastinating-on-what-matters-most-jon-acuff. ==================== JOIN THE COMMUNITY